REALTORS IDENTIFY EXTERIOR HOME REMODELING A GOOD RETURN ON INVESTMENT.

Home_With_Three_Car_Stone_Garage

WHEN IT COMES TO ANY REMODELING PROJECT, A HOMEOWNER WANTS TO ADD VALUE TO THEIR HOME. THEY SHOULD START WITH THEIR EXTERIOR HOME REMODELING!!

A recent survey of Realtors® found that realtors rated many exterior improvements as among the most valuable home investment projects as part of the “2011-12 Remodeling Cost versus Value Report.”

“This year’s ‘Remodeling Cost vs. Value Report’ shows the value of putting your home’s best façade forward, so to speak,” said National Association of Realtors® (NAR) president Moe Veissi, broker-owner of Veissi & Associates Inc. in Miami. “Inexpensive exterior replacement projects are not only crucial to a home’s regular upkeep, but are also expected to recoup close to 70 percent of costs. This is seems to be a common theme especially when there is a dip in the stock market, people invest in their homes and their exterior home remodeling happens to recoup the best dollar.

Specific exterior home remodeling projects such as siding, window and door replacements Arlington Heights IL are part of regular home maintenance, so many homeowners are already undertaking them. These projects also do not require expensive materials and they have the added bonus of instantly adding curb appeal.”

According to the report, seven of the top 10 most cost-effective projects nationally in terms of value recouped are exterior home remodeling replacement projects. Door replacements were among the top exterior replacement projects. The steel entry door replacement is the least expensive project in the report, costing little more than $1,200 on average and expected to recoup 73 percent of costs.

One window replacement project — upscale vinyl — rounded out the last exterior home remodeling replacement project in the top 10, expected to recoup 69.1 percent of costs.

“Inexpensive exterior replacement projects are not only crucial to a home’s regular upkeep, but are also expected to recoup close to 70 percent of costs.

The “2011-12 Remodeling Cost vs. Value Report” compares construction costs with resale values for 35 midrange and upscale remodeling projects comprising additions, remodels and replacements in 80 markets across the country. Data are grouped in nine U.S. regions, following the divisions established by the U.S. Census Bureau.

Overall, Realtors® estimated that homeowners would recoup an average of 57.7 percent of their investment in 35 different improvement projects, down from an average of 60 percent last year. Due to a weak economy, high unemployment in the construction industry and the increasing cost of materials, the price of exterior home remodeling projects has risen, leaving many homeowners hesitant to tackle projects or encouraging them to scale back on their plans.

Improvement projects that are expected to return the least are a sunroom addition and a home office remodel, both estimated to recoup less than 46 percent of costs.

Source: (http://www.dwmmag.com/index.php/realtors-identify-exterior-replacement-projects-as-best-investment-for-homeowners)
DWM Mag

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HOME REPLACEMENT WINDOWS: “DO IT YOURSELF” GUIDE

HOME REPLACEMENT WINDOWS DO IT YOURSELF GUIDE

HOME REPLACEMENT WINDOWS: “DO IT YOURSELF” GUIDE

Contractor FAQs | How To Install Home Replacement Windows

New home replacement windows improve your living space by adding natural light and great views. But if your windows are not installed properly, all those benefits will fade away in the wake of rising heat bills and a lack of security. Your contractor knows how to install windows efficiently and effectively, providing a durable, attractive home exterior.

Home Replacement Windows or New Windows?

The steps of window installation Arlington Heights IL depend on whether you’re looking at replacement windows or new windows. With replacement windows the exterior trim, siding, and interior moldings are left alone – you only need to replace the window and possibly the sash, depending on the style of the window.

The basic steps of home replacement window installation are:

  • remove existing windows and repair frame and sill, if necessary
  • pry off the stop, parting stop and sash
  • caulk on the interior side of the blind stop, as well as along back of the stool
  • tilt the window in place, pushing it firmly against the blind stop once fitted
  • loosely attach window into the frame with a half-tightened screw in opposite corners (top left and bottom right or top right and bottom left)
  • check the corner-to-corner measurements with the window closed and locked – use shims on the window until these measurements match exactly
  • insert partially tightened screws in the other two corners of the window
  • use shims to ensure the window is plumb, tighten all screws and test by fully opening and closing it several times
  • hang the interior stop back up using finishing nails
  • insulate any gaps using spray foam or fiberglass insulation and install a filler strip to hide gaps
  • caulk the exterior to prevent water leakage and weather damage

New windows, like those seen in new construction and home additions, require more precise fitting and trim work. While replacement windows may be a DIY project for skilled men and women, new windows need to be installed by an experienced professional to ensure a good fit.

The basic steps of new window installation are similar to those outlined above, but more work is done on the exterior of the home to ensure a watertight fit. The window frame and sill are built to fit the window, but shims are still used to ensure the window is level and plumb.

Measurements Are Key

No matter what type of windows we’re looking at, accurate home replacement window measurements make all the difference. Always be sure that horizontal measurements are made at the top, bottom, and middle of the window opening. Vertical measurements need to be taken on the left and right side of the opening, as well as down the middle.

Compare each set of measurements to ensure the window opening is level (horizontal measurements) and plumb (vertical measurements). Not only will these measurements be used to order the new windows, the comparisons also determine whether or not any work needs to be done on the opening.

Always check the home replacement windows when they arrive on-site to verify the size against your measurements. This helps to avoid surprises during the window installation process.

Understanding how to install windows helps ensure a smoother project, whether you’re going the DIY route or hiring an experienced contractor. All of the steps are important and come together to ensure your new windows fit well and operate dependably for years to come.

If you are looking for dependable home replacement windows for your home and want quality installation, hire a Revived Exteriors, local reputable contractor with a proven track record. You want a professional that’s been in business at least 5 or more years.

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I’ve found damage to my roofing shingles, now what?

Leaking-Roof Revived Exteriors

I’ve found damage to my roofing shingles, now what?

Have your roof shingles become worn, aged or damaged? A roof replacement project protects your home from the elements as well as increases the value of your property. You’ll need to do your research on local roofing contractors Arlington Heights IL and choose the best quality roofing shingles your budget allows. Considering the typical costs of roof replacement projects, a little bit of hard work ahead of time is well worth it.

How to Hire the Best Roofing Company

Many contractors install roofing, and choosing the best contractor can be a daunting task. You may find that roofing project prices are fairly competitive, making it even more difficult to make your choice. Keep these three key characteristics in mind when researching roofing companies:

  • Experience – Invest in a contractor who is well established in the area, and has several job sites you can visit to have a look at their work. It’s a good idea to check local Better Business Bureau listings to get an idea of how long the company has been in business.
  • Insurance – Qualified professional roofing companies have full insurance coverage, protecting you in case of an accident. Professional roofers will gladly confirm their insurance coverage – just be sure to ask them.
  • Warranty – Although most roofing replacements are straightforward, problems can occur, especially on installations occurring in colder months. Hire a roofing company that offers a decent warranty on their labor, and can provide information about the warranty.

HOW TO PICK THE BEST SHINGLES FOR YOUR ROOF REPLACEMENT.

BESIDES HIRING AN EXPERIENCED, FULLY INSURED ROOFING COMPANY THAT OFFERS SOLID WARRANTY COVERAGE, YOU’LL ALSO NEED TO SPEND SOME TIME CHOOSING THE BEST SHINGLES FOR YOUR HOME.

Asphalt shingles are the industry standard, but innovations have expanded the list of available asphalt shingles over the last few years. Instead of the standard three-tab style, you can also opt for architectural shingles made from fiberglass and designed to last longer than the standard brand. Asphalt shingles are often referred to as the best shingles by quality contractors due to their relatively easy installation and since they meet most homeowner’s budgets.

Cedarwood shingles or shakes are the best shingles if you are looking for a rustic and rich look on your home. These shingles provide excellent protection and a classic appearance on properties of any size. Other types of roofing materials include metal roofing, rubber, concrete, slate and clay tiles. These products tend to be more expensive than asphalt shingles and may require more support due to added weight.

When considering the best roofing shingles for your roof, start with your initial budget when choosing roofing materials, and keep in mind how long you are planning to stay in the house. Investing in more durable shingles, or even metal roofing makes sense if you will be living there for twenty-five years or more. If, on the other hand, you have plans to sell the home in five to ten years, a good quality asphalt shingle will provide the appearance and value you need.

Have a look at shingle samples against the exterior finish of your home, to gauge the overall appearance. Pay attention to color, and consider whether or not the shingles will fade over time.

CHOOSING THE BEST ROOFING SHINGLES AND AN EXPERIENCED CONTRACTOR ENSURES YOUR ROOFING REPLACEMENT PROJECT IS A SUCCESS.

Take the time to make good decisions with your home improvement investment.

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HOW REPLACEMENT SIDING UPGRADES CAN SAVE YOU MONEY!

Two men from a roofing company on ladders working on a residential roof replacement.

HOW REPLACEMENT SIDING UPGRADES CAN SAVE YOU MONEY

Good quality siding lasts for years with very little maintenance. If your existing siding is damaged or worn, upgrades can improve the appearance of your home and help you save money. This home improvement project increases the value of your property, reduces heating and cooling costs and protects your home’s interior from pests. Find out why upgrading your siding is a wise decision, just ask your #1 siding contractor from Arlington Heights IL.

Improve Your Home’s Appearance With A New Siding Upgrade

Older homes may be finished with inexpensive wood siding. Without constant maintenance, often in the form of sealing or staining, lower quality wood siding will rot and create gaps in your home’s exterior shell.  Upgrading to vinyl siding or a better quality wood siding product gives your home a facelift, refreshing the appearance from the roofline to the foundation

Aging aluminum siding has a tendency to bleed, with color or paint spreading onto the area below. Many suburban homes finished in a brick veneer/aluminum siding combination present an unsightly face after two or three decades, with stained bricks and faded siding. Vinyl siding is an attractive choice for replacement, but homeowners may have their work cut out removing the brick stain

Siding upgrades can be done during the construction of a home addition, in conjunction with window or roof replacement projects or simply on their own. Modernize your home by installing fiber cement board siding or give your house a classic look with prefinished engineered wood siding. New products can completely rejuvenate the appearance of your home, creating instant curb appeal

An attractive home also increases in value. This may only be an issue if you’re planning to sell, but increasing values also mean greater equity. Consider both the aesthetic and financial improvements that new siding can deliver to your property.

Save on Energy Costs With New Siding Upgrade

Siding upgrades also generate continuous savings by reducing your monthly heating and cooling bills. If your existing exterior finish hides a poorly insulated home, siding replacement projects provide the ideal opportunity to remedy that situation.

Some siding options are manufactured to include insulation. Others can be installed directly over polystyrene insulation, with a membrane or air barrier between them to help create the building envelope. This sandwich effect blocks the passage of air and reduces heat loss dramatically. Your home will remain warmer in the winter as heat is blocked from escaping. The summer humidity will also be blocked from seeping into your home, keeping interior temperatures at a more comfortable level all year round without taxing your furnace and air conditioner.

Your home still needs to breathe, and even newly installed siding will leave room for proper airflow. This design is carefully thought out, and gaps are minimized to prevent pests from entering your home. Aged, damaged and worn siding leaves far too many openings, forcing your heating and cooling appliances to work overtime.

Overgrown vines and plants can damage older vinyl siding, while exposure, storms and sunlight take a toll on aging wood siding. Upgrade to more modern designs that use the latest technology and manufacturing methods to create a durable product designed to save you money on energy costs.

Put more money in your pocket by putting new siding on your home. Talk to us, Revived Exteriors about the products and styles currently available, and look forward to a nicer looking, more affordable home.

Have you installed new siding on your home?  When researching home improvement project, what was most important to you? Leave a message at the bottom of this article.

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HIGH ENERGY BILLS? REPLACEMENT WINDOWS REDUCE COOLING COSTS.

A group of windows with various colors and styles, complementing the building's commercial roofing.

HIGH ENERGY BILLS? UPGRADE YOUR REPLACEMENT WINDOWS TO CONTROL COOLING COSTS THIS SUMMER!

 High Energy Bills? Upgrade to Replacement Windows to Control Cooling Costs This Summer!

We all want to create a comfortable climate in our homes this summer, but single pane and older double glazed windows can push cooling costs out of control. Have you considered upgrading your existing windows to durable, energy-efficient replacement windows Arlington Heights IL?

You will find many new innovations in today’s market, designed to provide maximum efficiency and an impressive appearance.

What You Should Look For in a New Replacement Window

Talk to your window installer about the latest industry offerings, and consider your home’s exposure and the surrounding climate. Most double-glazed windows provide less insulation than triple-glazed products. For maximum performance choose a high-quality triple-glazed product with low-E coating and argon gas to create an excellent barrier against heat loss.

Low-E glass comes in several grades, including high solar gain, moderate and low solar gain types.  High solar gain Low-E glass works well in northern climates, transmitting more solar heat through the glazing to ease heating costs. Homes in southern climates are better protected with windows manufactured from low solar gain glass, which transmit less solar heat and maintain cooler interior temperatures.

Consider the framing and spacers of your new windows as well, investing in non-metal frames and warm-edge spacers for optimum savings on both heating and cooling costs.

Energy Star has minimum standards and testing required to meet their “Energy Star Rating” on many different products to help reduce the carbon footprint which reduces energy costs and ultimately increase comfort. Make sure your window installer that the windows will come with an Energy Star sticker attached to the window panes to guarantee energy savings.

“With proper planning and an experienced contractor on your side, this home improvement project will pay itself back within a reasonable amount of time through reduced cooling costs in the summer.”

Professional Installation is Important

Although window quality remains the top priority for this home improvement project, professional installation is essential. Incorrect installation can offset the benefits of a premium window, reducing your savings and putting added strain on your air conditioner.

Hire an experienced window installer to put in high-quality replacement windows, and ask that contractor about recommended brands suitable for your property. The contractor should carry a variety of brands, and be able to offer you a decent selection of windows in a range of styles and sizes.

Other Ways to Improve the Building Envelope

Many people take the time to winterize their homes without realizing that similar processes improve efficiency during the summer. Cut out drafts and reduce heat loss with a few quick and affordable projects designed to keep cool air in and hot air out.

Check for gaps around your doors and seal these areas with high-quality caulking or foam. Heat escapes through cracks and gaps during the winter, but those spots also allow hot air to seep into your home in the summer. Creating an airtight building envelope will reduce or eliminate this exchange of air, allowing your air conditioner to reach peak efficiency.

Add window treatments to south-facing windows to block the sun’s rays during hot summer afternoons. Many people find that interior temperatures remain steady and comfortable when their blinds, shutters or curtains are closed during the day (most often while they are at work). Give your air conditioner a break by shutting the sun out during the hottest hours.

Final Thoughts

Replacement windows certainly improve the appearance of your home, but the true advantages are found inside. With proper planning and an experienced contractor on your side, this home improvement project will pay itself back within a reasonable amount of time through reduced cooling costs in the summer. Live comfortably and affordably by upgrading your windows this year.

Have you had energy star rated replacement windows recently installed on your home? How much did you energy costs go down? Have you tried the cost-effective tips above to reduce your energy costs? If yes, what was your experience like? Call us, Revived Exteriors and learn more how we can help you.

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INSTALL FIBERGLASS SHINGLES OR UPGRADE TO METAL ROOFING?

A roofing contractor installing a tiled roof with two windows.

SHOULD I INSTALL FIBERGLASS SHINGLES OR UPGRADE TO METAL ROOFING?

Roof replacement Arlington Heights IL projects can be stressful for Midwest homeowners, especially if those homeowners are confused about what type of roofing materials are best. Often times homeowners are left comparing metal roofing over the more common fiberglass shingles.

Will the premium price of metal roofing or rubber roofing products be worth it in the end?

And how long can you expect a typical fiberglass roof to last?

You are wise to ask questions and find out all of your options, resulting in the very best roof for your home and family.

LOOK AT BOTH THE PROS AND CONS OF HIGH QUALITY FIBERGLASS SHINGLES AND CONSIDER THE ADDED EXPENSE OF METAL ROOFING BEFORE MAKING YOUR FINAL DECISION.

Benefits and Disadvantages of Fiberglass Shingles

If you are having your roof replaced in the warmer months of spring, summer and autumn the benefits of fiberglass asphalt shingles have a chance to shine.

Manufacturers used to make asphalt shingles from organic materials such as waste paper and fibers. This allowed for greater flexibility during the cold winter months, but resulted in a shorter product lifespan and more problems with roof leaks. Today most roof replacement jobs are completed using fiberglass asphalt shingles, made from inorganic materials that withstand time and the elements with ease.

FIBERGLASS SHINGLES COME IN A WIDE RANGE OF COLORS AND PROFILES,

with many that mimic the classic looks of clay tile or slate. Many homebuilders use fiberglass shingles because of the affordable cost and attractive appearance, as well as the relatively quick installation and ease of roof repairs.

However, fiberglass roofing shingles will rot or fall apart over time. A metal roof provides a lifetime of dependability in any climate, eliminating the need to replace your roof after ten or fifteen years.

Although the lifespan of asphalt shingles varies widely, based on the quality and manufacturer, you can only expect to get fifteen or twenty years of reliable coverage on most Midwest homes. If you are planning on remaining in your home for a few decades, you should plan on replacing your asphalt shingles at least twice, or possibly more, if heavy storms persist. Some fiberglass shingles manufacturers partner with expert roofing contractors and allow them to pass along better shingle and installation warranties. This option does cost a bit more but will pay off over the long run when the product is not pro-rated at a lesser amount each year. Meaning, if your shingles fail before the warranty expires, they can be replaced at a full dollar amount vs a lesser amount due to depreciation.

Premium Prices for Premium Performance

Metal roofing does cost a significant amount more than fiberglass shingles. Material prices are higher, and this product requires special installation procedures and fasteners, pushing the cost even higher.  This typically requires more oversight during the installation of the metal roofing product by a quality control specialist.

Depending on the age of your home and the size and pitch of your roof, some metal roofing may demand additional support. Most modern products are designed to be lightweight and efficient, but it is wise to have a professional roofer assess the project before investing in metal roofing materials.

The premium price of metal roofing improves the value of your home, although not enough to offset the initial investment. You need to value the product performance and plan to live with the assurance of metal’s dependability for years in order to fully appreciate the return on investment.

Many homeowners are leaning toward the benefits of metal roofing, but the popularity of fiberglass shingles continues to hold out. Affordable, reliable and easy to repair after storms or damage, fiberglass shingles remain a top choice for Midwest roof replacement projects. Call Revived Exteriors to learn more.

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HOW DO YOU CHOOSE THE BEST SIDING COLOR?

A house with green shutters and trees in the front yard, featuring a roof installation.

HOW DO YOU CHOOSE THE BEST SIDING COLOR?

Siding protects and insulates your home from the elements. But the ideal siding color also creates an attractive exterior finish that improves curb appeal and increases the value of your home. Choosing the best siding color involves much more than picking your favorite – you will need to consider several factors including product quality, trim, architecture and the dominant style of your neighborhood. Stay with us, your #1 siding company in Arlington Heights IL and learn more.

INVEST IN QUALITY SIDING PRODUCTS

Avoid cheap siding – no matter what siding colors, profiles or combinations offered. Inexpensive product lines contain less pure vinyl than quality brands, resulting in more cracking and fading. Ask your contractor to recommend a few brands that offer the quality you need at the price you can afford, and then browse siding color selections and profiles available in those product lines.

Do you have a vision for what your home could look like? Now, expert contractors who invest in their business offer up a 3d design model of your actual home.  This allows you can play with all the colors of your exterior home. Unlike most visualizers, you see your actual home with the current colors on it, not some other model. In fact, with high-end software available to technically advanced contractors, you can take 8 pictures and have this model ready for you in as little as two hours. Be sure to ask your contractor for the 3d rendering when scheduling your initial consultation.

High-quality siding also retains that ideal siding color for the long term, without any need to paint or stain. Simply wash your dirty siding with soap and water to restore the surface to a beautiful shine.

Think About Trim

The overall appearance of your home is a combination of siding color and trim, along with windows, doors, and roofing. Ask about the trim available when choosing the best siding color; this may help you make a better decision for curb appeal.

Trim can be in a contrasting color, but many homes look good with trim in a few shades lighter or darker than the main siding color. Dark siding should have lighter trim, while light siding looks best with darker trim.

Trim is installed around the windows and doors, at the corners and on any finishing edges. Some trim adds to the architectural details, such as gingerbread trim in gables or dentil trim along the roof-line and on overhangs.

Stick With the Home Style

Colonial homes look best in colors that were popular in that era. Other home styles include Victorian, Ranch style and contemporary or modern homes. Each of these styles includes a range of suitable colors that complement the shape and architecture.

Browsing through paint swatches at your local paint store is an easy way to find period hues and tones. These swatches usually have descriptive names to direct you and may already be organized into periods for simple sorting.

Find the collection that best suits the style of your home and choose your favorite colors. Bring those to the siding retailer or contractor to search for a matching siding color. This method allows you to choose siding colors that ensure continuity and remain true to your home’s original style.

HOW YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD PLAYS INTO THE SELECTION OF YOUR SIDING COLOR

Consider the other colors used on your street, on your block and in the wider neighborhood. You may want to stand out in some way, but avoid installing a siding color that highlights your house in an unappealing light when compared to homes nearby.

For instance, if you live in a coastal area full of pastel shades and white trim, avoid the more sedate, darker colors. Colonial neighborhoods favor bold shades with traditional trim in complementary colors, although you may get away with a contrasting scheme.

Your home needs to express your tastes and style, but clashing with the houses next door will only serve to devalue your property in the long run.

Ask Revived Exteriors, your siding installer for recommendations on high-quality siding brands in appealing colors. Choose your favorite based on the above criteria and your home will be finished beautifully.

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HOW CAN HAIL STORMS DAMAGE MY ROOF?

Damaged roof shingles in Arlington Heights, IL

Shingles and shakes can get damaged from heavy hail storms, resulting in water leaks and interior damage. But how severe must the storms be to inflict significant damage and what can homeowners do to avoid costly repairs?

Gauging the Potential Danger

Hail ranges in size from tiny pebbles to massive chunks as large as oranges and softballs. In order for a
hail storm to inflict significant damage on the average asphalt shingled roof the hail stones should be about the size of a golf ball. Depending on the density and shape, smaller stones can also dent and destroy your roof. Hail that falls with considerable speed is also powerful enough to damage shingles.

Most major hail storms consist of larger stones that can easily punch holes in asphalt shingles of any age. And it seems like storms are growing in intensity every year.

Three Types of Damage

Hailstones wreck asphalt shingles in three different ways. The first problem creates leaks almost immediately, while the other two will present a significant problem several months after the storm.

 

Look for the following signs to determine how hailstones have damaged your asphalt shingles:

  • Immediate Damage to the Top Layer of the Shingle – larger, sharp hailstones can tear into the upper layer of your asphalt shingles, ripping off the protection and allowing water to penetrate through to your roof deck.
  • Cracked Shingle Mat – fast falling or dense hailstones can actually crack the mat of your asphalt shingles, which inevitably results in water leakage. The damage is not visible from a distance; small crescent-shaped black lines will appear upon close inspection.
  • Shingle Bruising – small hailstones can bruise the upper layer of your shingles, pushing asphalt granules down into the shingle. With exposure to rain and UV rays, those granules will rapidly disappear and the shingle will deteriorate beyond repair. Leaks appear about six to twelve months after shingle bruising.

WHAT CAN HOMEOWNERS DO TO AVOID ROOF DAMAGE DURING HAIL STORMS?

It’s difficult to predict the weather, and you cannot adequately protect your roof from extreme weather like hail or severe winds. The best way to avoid hail damage is by keeping your roof in good condition.

Have a hail damage repair contractor in Arlington Heights IL inspect the shingles on a regular basis, and take care of any repairs promptly and professionally. Pay attention to any evidence of moisture inside your home as well.

Invest in high quality architectural asphalt shingles when replacing your roof. These thicker products are denser and provide greater protection against top layer damage, cracked mats and shingle bruising. A good quality shingle costs more initially, but will save you time and hassles later on.

Talk to your insurance company about the extent of coverage in your current policy. Storms often result in multiple claims around your area, and some companies can be difficult to deal with. Be clear on what type of coverage you currently have against hail damage. If necessary, upgrade your policy now before any damage has been done.

Hail storms can cause significant and costly damage to asphalt shingles, resulting in roof leaks and expensive repairs. Keep your roof in peak condition, invest in quality products and have the roof inspected if you suspect hail damage. Nature can deal a heavy blow to your asphalt shingle roof with hail stones of various shapes and sizes.

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HOW CAN HAIL STORMS DAMAGE MY VINYL SIDING?

New roof in Arlington Heights, IL

Hail storms can damage your roof, gutters, vents and air conditioner units. But hail storm damage to vinyl siding may be difficult to detect without knowing what to look for. Insurance companies often need to differentiate between mechanical damage and hail damage, and homeowners need to be familiar with the evidence of hail related damage.

TWO COMMON TYPES OF HAIL STORM DAMAGE TO VINYL SIDING

Vinyl siding generally stands up well against severe weather. Lightweight and designed to withstand UV rays and extreme wind, vinyl siding can crack or chip when large, dense or fast-falling hailstones hit the panels.

Details of this damage includes:

• Cracks – siding panels crack in arched patterns, most often in unsupported sections between the ridge and valley.
• Chips – chips occur on the bottom of vinyl siding panels and can be seen best when viewing the panel from below.

These two types of siding damage are generally accepted as hail related, while other nicks, marks, gouges and breakage can result from mechanical incidents like grass cutting (rocks or pebbles fly up from the mower, hitting the vinyl siding with excessive force).

IS MY VINYL SIDING VULNERABLE?

Besides the size, density and speed of hailstones, there are certain factors that leave your vinyl siding more vulnerable to damage. You can control some of these factors and regular maintenance or inspections may alert you to potential risk, but your siding remains at the mercy of recurring storms.
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These three factors affect the risk level for hail related siding damage:

• Quality of the Siding – higher grade siding products, made in thicker profiles and with heavy-duty vinyl construction, are less prone to hail damage. Siding ranges in thickness from 0.35 to 0.55mm, and different manufacturers offer varying levels of quality in terms of the materials used.
• Age of the Siding – siding becomes brittle over time, and that level of brittleness leaves siding vulnerable to small, rapidly falling hailstones.
• Condition of the Siding – even high quality siding deteriorates due to UV ray exposure and all that nature throws at it. Walls that face south tend to absorb the majority of harmful exposure and may be more vulnerable than other sections.

Extensive interior damage may result from cracks or chips in your vinyl siding. Leaving the plywood, framing and insulation exposed to moisture can introduce mold and mildew, which results in expensive and upsetting repair bills in the future. Chips also allow pests to enter your home and any sort of siding damage creates an unsightly appearance for your property.

Be Clear on Your Insurance Coverage

Just as discussed when considering hail damaged asphalt shingles, you need to find out the extent of coverage regarding vinyl siding hail damage on your existing insurance policy.

In some cases an insurance company will pay to replace the siding on your entire home. In other cases, and more frequently, your coverage only extends to the damaged sections or damaged wall. Find this out beforehand and inquire about coverage additions if your existing policy is inadequate.

Be sure to hire only reputable, local companies for siding damage repairs. These firms offer solid customer service and proven experience, everything you need to repair hail storm damage to vinyl siding.

Have you experienced storm damage to your siding?  What did you do about it? Did it work?

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NEW EXTERIOR DOORS IMPROVE PROPERTY VALUE AND PEACE OF MIND

A wooden door with wrought iron and glass panels, perfect for residential or commercial properties.

Homeowners in the Chicago area value a secure and comfortable home. Installing new exterior doors on your Chicago home will improve property value, increase peace of mind and create greater levels of comfort and security for your family. How can a door do all of that? With quality design, precise manufacturing and expert installation.

NEW EXTERIOR DOORS BOOST CURB APPEAL

Changing your existing door (or doors) for a newer model is similar to changing your outfit – it can provide a whole new look. New exterior door models include decorative window inserts, attractive wood grain patterns and classic panel profiles. Include a transom window or sidelights for higher levels of natural light inside your home. Replacing a traditional storm door with a modern screen door is another popular project.
Upgrading your exterior door is an affordable home improvement that boosts curb appeal and dresses up the house. Add style and an upscale atmosphere with a new door or set of doors. Choose the color, profile and accents you prefer to create the ideal entrance for your home.

NEW EXTERIOR DOORS PROVIDE GREATER STRENGTH AND SECURITY

Today’s door products have enhanced designs targeting strength and security. Quality steel and fiberglass doors come with better locking capabilities, including steel channels and a layered design to resist warping and excessive force. Hardwood doors require regular maintenance, but provide a solid, highly durable barrier that can be fitted with the latest locking mechanisms.
A well made, properly installed exterior door discourages burglars. Older, flimsier doors make easy targets and allow would-be thieves to gain entry quickly. Invest in your family’s security by upgrading your existing entrance, side or garage man-door with good quality products that include enhanced strength and security features.
New Exterior Doors Improve the Building Envelope
Improved insulation is another benefit of exterior door replacement in Chicago homes. Energy efficient doors act as a heat barrier, keeping in the cool during summer and blocking heat from escaping over the winter. In spring and fall, a well made door helps to protect your home from wind and other harsh weather conditions.
Doors play a major role in your building envelope, and must complement the exterior finish, windows and roofing in order to offer optimum protection and insulation value. Think about the door panel design as well as any windows incorporated into the door, and be sure to invest in a product with insulation value and maximum durability.

WHAT TO CONSIDER IN AN EXTERIOR DOOR

Think about these three vital factors when shopping for a new door:

Exterior Door - Wood and Glass* Appearance – it must suit your home’s architecture, and fit within your personal tastes.
* Durability – including the insulation value, strength and security features.
* Maintenance – hardwood doors must be stained or painted on a regular basis, but scratches and marks can be easily fixed, while steel and fiberglass replacement doors are low maintenance, but more difficult to repair when damaged.

Weigh your options and compare products in order to chose the best exterior door for your Chicago area home. This home improvement project will add curb appeal, enhance security and improve energy efficiency. Talk to your local contractor about all of the benefits new exterior doors can offer your family.

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