home-appeal

Maintaining Your Gutters

Fri, 30 May 2014 00:00:00 GMT

Gutter system maintenance is important to ensure the longevity of the system and to protect your home from water damage. The minimal cost of gutter protection is nothing compared to the cost it would be for damage to the house. Those protectors will also reduce or eliminate how often you need to clean out your gutters and downspouts. It is basically a “win win” situation. Without protection, your gutters build up with natural debris, as well as shingle particles. That can lead to water overflow, foundation seepage, bent gutter runs, and much more.

Basically, gutter guards are the best enhancement you can make. Nevertheless, it is still important to routinely check your entire system. One failing gutter component can lead to damage with other pieces in your system. Here are some smaller components that require regular inspection and/or maintenance. For maintenance information on actual downspouts and gutter sections, click here .

Downspout Extensions

Downspout extensions are important because they allow the draining water from the downspout to flow away from the foundation. Inspect those pieces to ensure that there is no damage or leaks. Oftentimes, they can get stepped on and flattened. They can also get punctured or weakened by a bend. You can also check for blockage created from leaves and other debris. These products usually build up inside during the fall season and into the spring season. Check the screws that hold them to the downspout and make sure that they are secure.

If you are finding that the water is not moving away far enough, you can purchase an actual downspout and a coupler, then cut it to the length you need. You can also purchase sewer drain piping, P.V.C. drain piping, or even splash blocks that will catch the water and run it out further. There are also rollout extender systems that mount to the bottom of the downspout and unroll with water flow pressure. In any case, ensure that the water is flowing out to where it should.

Gutter Spikes and Mounts

Inspect all the gutter spikes to ensure that they are intact. If your gutter system uses clamps; inspect them for straightness, tightness, and stability. Oftentimes, you could find a combination because the spikes were coming out and the clamps were easier to install. In any case, these components are the backbone of support for a gutter system and need to be secure and straight. The straightness usually maintains support strength like the jack stand for your vehicle. Bent ones can weaken the support system and the clamp itself. In some cases, you may be able to bend a clamp back to shape, but it can be costly if you need a bunch of replacements.

If you find several damaged pieces when inspecting your gutter system, it may be time for a new installation. In any case, checking the entire gutter system is important to the overall health of the gutters and the life of the gutter itself, not to mention the home’s health! For more helpful tips, see the blog “ Extending the Life of Your Gutters .”

Extending the Life of Your Gutters

Mon, 26 May 2014 00:00:00 GMT

Gutter systems play an important role in home protection so it is very important to keep up with them and conduct routine maintenance checks. This reduces the need for new gutters and ensures that they are in proper working order, as well as functional. As time goes by, your gutters tend to build up with gunk and natural debris. Gutter guards work great for this particular problem. Nevertheless, gutters tend to warp or bend depending on the load and the material. They can also loosen or even fall off. Here are some typical problems you want to check for with your downspouts and gutter sections. For additional gutter components, see the blog “ Maintaining Your Gutters .”

Downspouts

Typical downspout problems include:

Downspout clogs
Loose areas
Separation from the siding
and even downspouts falling off

You should periodically inspect the downspouts for clogs to ensure optimum performance and drainage. Check for loose pieces because the gutter clamps can sometimes break loose from the siding. In addition, you should inspect the screws to ensure they are intact to help prevent loose or fallen downspout components.

Gutter Sections

The gutter sections are usually pretty long pieces and with that, they can:

Bend
Warp
Loosen
Puncture
Crack
Or even separate from the edge of the roof

Check for bent or warped gutter runs. If you have any of those, they can alter the collection and flow of water. Depending on the severity, they can build up damns of natural elements and roof particles. This will stop or restrict the flow of water. What happens afterwards is the water overflows out of the gutter and lands next to the house. From there, it enters the foundation blocks and makes its way into the basement.

Aside from that, check for cracks or piercings in the gutter pieces. Also look for leaking joints. Those will let water leak out and seep into the foundation. You can purchase gutter patch or sealant material that usually can be applied in cold or warm weather and most can be used under water as well. In some cases, the damage is so bad that it can be difficult to seal up or costly to repair.

If your gutters are looking a little weathered, you can purchase some gutter paint from the local hardware store. It is usually available in white or brown and comes in a spray can for easy use. Just don’t paint your house by accident.

For more gutter maintenance tips, click here .

Understand Home Interior Design and Resolving Common Problems

Fri, 16 May 2014 00:00:00 GMT

Many home owners tend to misunderstand home or residential interior design, and this need not be complicated. Apparently, residential interior design is rather complex and a professional will not simply pick up the latest and trendy color, or any artistic theme. Instead, they will critically think about the home, as well as the residential purposes, which they must accomplish at the end of the project.

Before you embark on a home remodeling project, it is imperative that you consider your lifestyle carefully, which will dictate the room dimensions and overall home plan. Today you can do this very easily by using 3D computer design software that show you the product possibilities, and how the home will eventually look like, before you even begin the project. Hence, you will begin the project with the end in mind.

Solving the problems on the existing structure

A professional interior designer can also offer credible advice on how a home owner can get the most out of the home that they currently have. Whether you are redecorating, remodeling, or buying a new home, they can come in and help with the work, and give the living space a better atmosphere. Sometimes it also happens that a potential home owner only finds single perfect room from a relatively good home, say for instance, the master bathroom may be smaller than expected, or the kitchen may not have as much space as one would want, on the other hand, the living room may come in an awkward outline.

Having a number of odd rooms, or simply not up to what one would want in a home can be sometimes frustrating, however this is where a residential interior designer becomes very helpful. They will help you incorporate this awkward design into your lifestyle and even make the smaller rooms look larger, by professional décor, or creatively adding space.

Design ideas

Contemporary living adds subtle value to a home’s décor, and what the designer will do is combine colors along with great lighting to increase versatility, which ideally is the hallmark of contemporary living spaces.

Tips for Choosing the Best Paint for Your Kitchen

Fri, 09 May 2014 00:00:00 GMT

Whether you're completely remodeling your kitchen or just want to make a quick, easy and inexpensive change, choosing the right paint is essential. Many people just walk in and choose a swatch that they like, but this can cause you to end up with a paint that you won't be happy with in the long term. Keeping these five tips in mind, however, will help you give your kitchen the look that you want while keeping things practical as well.

1. Keep Clean-Up in Mind

Although you might prefer flat paint elsewhere in your home, it isn't the easiest thing to clean. The kitchen is prone to a host of different messes, so consider an eggshell finish or other type of paint that can be easily cleaned.

2. Look at Your Existing Décor and Appliances

Unless you're planning on buying all new appliances and stripping out your flooring, cabinets and countertops, you should choose a paint color that will look nice alongside what you already have.

3. Think Twice Before Choosing White

White walls can look striking in some kitchens, but you should think twice before applying white paint to your walls. Unless they're easy to clean, they could stain. Plus, white can look boring unless you have other pops of color in the kitchen to add a bit more jazz.

4. Think Outside the Box

Your kitchen should be an exciting, friendly and welcoming home for friends, family and guests. Think outside of the box, and look at colors that will be warm, inviting and attractive, and consider skipping the basics for something a bit more exciting, like deep reds or purples.

5. Don't Forget Your Trim

You might want to paint your trim as well so that it will be bright and shiny along with the other paint in your kitchen. For best results, choose colors that look nice together and that will really stand out.

Vinyl Siding Repair

Fri, 11 Apr 2014 00:00:00 GMT

Vinyl siding is an important element in your house. It not only improves your house appeal but also it prevents your house from damage such as damage from insects. Unfortunately vinyl siding is prone to damage and needs repair and maintenance regularly as it is very fragile. It melts when it is exposed to extremely high temperatures and becomes brittle when subjected to cold weather also it is prone to impact damage such as breaking apart and cracking. Vinyl siding repair can be very expensive when most parts are damaged hence it is advisable that when most parts of the vinyl sliding are damaged you replace it. Here are steps of repairing a damaged vinyl siding.

1. Unlock the Siding

The first step in vinyl siding repair is unlocking the siding to expose the damaged part. This can be done by using a zip tool.

2. Repair starting from the bottom piece

The first place to start from when repairing a damaged vinyl siding is the bottom pieces and progress upwards. This is very important as it helps to avoid cases of forgotten damaged parts.

3. Insert a wooden shim between the pieces

It is common that the zip tool will be sliding along the siding as you repair but you can arrest that by putting a shim between the pieces of siding.

4. Patch the damaged area

After repairing and placing the top siding pieces, patch the vinyl siding so that to protect against any future damage. This can be done using a tin snips and it is important that the patch should be large than the piece you have repaired.

5. Lock the siding

After you have repaired and placed the patch into place then lock back the siding back into place tightly.

Most vinyl siding repairs are easy and can be done by anyone who has a general knowledge on basic tools and painting but also experts can be called in case of technical repairs.

Types of House Siding Materials

Fri, 04 Apr 2014 00:00:00 GMT

If utilized positively, siding can be a cost effective element for beautifying a home. Homeowners have many options to choose from which could often confuse them. At times, it is imperative to mix designs in order to develop an attractive home. While shopping for siding material, every homeowner desires to get something that would set their home apart from the others. Below is a brief description of the types of house siding materials you will find on the market.

Vinyl/Aluminum siding

They are made from PVC. It has existed for a long time and is the most commonly used option in new homes. They are suitable for most homes since they do not require to be painted. They are developed with careful engineering and design. They are durable and widely available. Regardless of their advantages, entire sections have to be replaced whenever repairs are required.

Fiber cement siding

They comprise of wood fibers that are mixed with cement and sand. They are thicker as compared to vinyl and can withstand harsh weather conditions. Its stability allows paint to last longer on the surface. Additionally, they are resistant to water and termites. They are however costly and the installation process complicated.

Insulated siding

They are vinyl products that have an added benefit of insulation. The insulation is glued inside. They are highly recognized for its energy efficiency capability to reduce heat gain or loss from the house. They are however costly when compared to normal vinyl siding.

Engineered wood siding

They are the newest type of siding material on the market. They are designed by combining by-products from wood with bonding agents. The resulting material has a number of aesthetic features that are stronger than those found in wood. They have a much longer life expectancy compared to that of natural wood. They have to be painted regularly in order to maintain their integrity. They are easier to install but highly susceptible to problems related to moisture.

It is critical to assess all the available options before making your final decision on the best siding material for your home. Since siding is expected to last for a very long time in your home, it is best that you choose designs that excite you.

Insulate Your Walls and Pad Your Wallet

Fri, 28 Mar 2014 00:00:00 GMT

Do you wonder what kind of statement is that,” Insulate your walls and pad your wallet”? The explanation is simple and will be clear when you read more. Insulation is one of the most cost-effective methods to increase a home’s energy while it saves you money on hefty energy bills. There are several questions you can ask yourself in order to establish whether it is time for extra wall padding.

Is your home older than 20 years? It is true that both older as well as new homes need insulation, but if you have an old house and you did not personally insulate it, it is possible that a lot of energy escapes.
Is your house too hot during summer months and too cold in winter months? If so, your house lacks adequate insulation in key areas. Without proper insulation, heat flows out in winter and allows warm air into your house during summer. Insulation maintains a comfortable and uniform temperature all year round. You save drastically with air conditioning throughout the year.
Do you have high energy bills? The initial installation of wall insulation is paid off faster than you think by saving on high energy bills. Insulating your attic is a good place to start if you do not plan to stay for a long period in your house. Homeowners with no plan to move will benefit by insulating walls, crawl spaces and floors.
Do you plan replacing a roof or build onto your house? If the answer is yes, then budget from the start to do the job right. Factoring insulation into your plans is minimum hassle at a later stage and energy saving from the start.
Is your existing insulation below R-value? The higher the R-value is, the better your insulation for saving energy. The Department of Energy has recommendations on R-value for energy efficient homes.

The Benefits of Green Roofing

Fri, 21 Mar 2014 00:00:00 GMT

Green roofs are becoming more prevalent nowadays. They are an eco-friendly form of construction that offers many benefits for property owners. A green roof is a roof that is either partially or completely covered with vegetation or plants. The vegetation is usually planted on a waterproof membrane that includes irrigation and drainage systems as well as a root barrier.

One of the benefits of green roofing is that it significantly reduces energy consumption both in the summer and winter seasons. During the summer, a green roof keeps the heat of the sun from penetrating into the interiors of a building. In this way, the roof helps reduce cooling load. During the winter, a green roof insulates the interiors of a building from cold weather. Green roofing can reduce fifty to seventy percent of energy consumption.

Green roofs also help filter pollutants from the environment. They also help reduce the noise that bustling cities generate. This includes noise from busy freeways, factories and airports. Green roofing also helps reduce the use of synthetic roofing materials.

The initial cost of installing a green roof is higher than that of installing a roof made from conventional materials. However, a green roof is more long lasting and can help you save a substantial amount of money over the years. Installing a green roof will also increase the value of your property. This roof can also improve the overall appearance of your property. It is something that you can be proud of since many people will appreciate its uniqueness and beauty.

If you choose to install a green roof on your property, you can grow food such as vegetables and fruits on it. You can also grow flowers on it for various purposes. There are three levels of green roofing. These include extensive, intensive and semi intensive. Intensive green roofing requires the most maintenance. It has a deeper soil level and it is meant to host full lawns or larger plants. This level of green roofing mimics a park that is placed on top of a house. Semi intensive roofing does not require a lot of maintenance and it is meant to host moderately large plant life.

Extensive green roofing requires the least amount of work. It is built to support itself and in most cases, property owners only have to perform maintenance on an extensive green roof once a year. This roof contains a thin layer of soil. Hardy plants and moss are usually grown on extensive green roofing.

Windows-Letting the Sunshine In

Fri, 14 Mar 2014 00:00:00 GMT

Keeping up with the progressive times and the need to tap natural resources, why shouldn’t we try our hand at making our home energy efficient? We all know that windows are for ventilation and enhancing the face value of our home but they offer good energy saving solutions too. This architectural feature gains or loses energy by radiation, conduction, convection and of course, air leakage. You can effectively bank on these factors and make your home a lot more energy efficient. So, let’s delve into some ideas that can altogether change the definition of windows.

Letting in maximum light, holding the inside temperature and reducing your power bills. So, now your remodeling ideas should incorporate a relatively new and beneficial feature -energy efficiency. The rule of thumb to bring in maximum sunshine is to follow the sun. For ensuring effective light for the better part of the day, install windows on the north of the room. South collects most of the solar heat, go for low E or low emissivity glass coating, these rank high on reflecting the heating rays away from your house. So, you can control the transfer of heat through your windows.

Replace picture windows with bow or bay windows, you can enjoy more light, more view and more sun. You can utilize the space by adding a window seat to the front with a storage area underneath or you can showcase books or showpieces to enhance the space efficiency. You can also choose a built in bench in accordance with the shape of the window. Install large and taller windows, besides maximizing light; they make your rooms feel larger.

You can bring in the outdoors by adding a sun room, covering the area with large windows offers you the luxury of sun all day, plus it increases your living space. For new windows, consider covering only the top half with grills, the lower half can provide for unobstructed view. You can consider adding egress windows which offer easy exit in case of an emergency. Being larger than a common window, these windows rank high on making the basement environment more comfortable and pleasant by adding comparatively more to ventilation and lighting.

Certain other features in installing your windows can increase their energy efficiency manifolds. If you select, multi panes of glass over single panes, the insulation level goes up substantially. Tight seals, proper installation and energy efficient frames also help you in controlling heat gain or loss. Let’s change the earlier definition of windows, now we can say, windows- letting the sunshine in, maximizing light efficiency, maximizing ventilation, minimizing power bills! So, let technology come to the forefront in making our homes energy efficient, besides other advantages, it would be our effort towards conserving energy and resources.

5 Things You Should Know about Siding for Your Home

Fri, 07 Mar 2014 00:00:00 GMT

Did you know that siding can be a great addition to your home? Well, if you didn't know, siding in the first place, greatly improves the curb appeal of your home. Furthermore, it can reduce your maintenance costs over the long haul. Generally speaking, siding is valuable to your home for a variety of reasons.

Here are the five things you should know about siding your home.

Siding increases the value of your home.

1. Siding is available in various materials.

Siding comes in a variety of materials. The most popular materials are; aluminum, wood and vinyl. The best material for your home solely depends on the location of your home. But, vinyl is very popular since it can be used in most climates. First it is does not require any maintenance and secondly it is easy on budget. That nonexistent of maintenance is possibly the greatest virtue of exterior siding. Siding is like a shield that protects your home from any form of damage and reduces the costs you might incur in repairing the damages.

2. Siding improves the general make up of your home.

Siding improves the general make up of your home. Most siding materials come in a wide array of colors. With siding, you will not have to paint your home and best of all; the color will be even and will not peal. Siding has a great cosmetic impact on your home. Siding is also available in various textures. You can achieve a magnificent look by blending it with the most appropriate color.

3. Siding makes cleaning easier

Siding is much easier to clean than sheer or brick walls. Whether you choose to go for aluminum, wood or vinyl exterior, siding makes cleaning of the surfaces easier.

4. Siding reduces maintenance costs

Siding reduces the maintenance costs you could have incurred now and then on your home’s exterior. Besides it adds up to the appeal of your home which may not have been there. It also provides a very easy way of keeping the exterior of your home clean without repainting.

5. Siding can be hosed off.

In many cases, siding can be hosed off. Here, you will need some light soap and a power washer. This will make your home not only to have an even color but also easier to clean and more appealing for those passing by.

Generally speaking, siding has a lot of long term advantages and that is why I consider it a valuable addition.

Decorating the Bay Windows to Add Elegance to Your Home

Fri, 28 Feb 2014 00:00:00 GMT

Bay windows are polygonal shaped window spaces that project out from the walls of a building. These windows add elegance to the room by presenting the outside views that are unseen with normal windows. However, decorating these bay windows may sometimes prove to be difficult because they stick out from the buildings. Here are a few ways to provide your bay windows with the appeal of your choice.

If you want to highlight each individual window, you can opt for customized Roman shades. These shades will not only add contemporary flavor to the house, but also bring out the linear quality of the windows. You may also choose soft shades with overlapping folds for a clean and traditional look.

The pleats of the shade lends a horizontal effect to the windows. This effect balances out the vertical nature of the windows. Now if you wish to highlight the architecture of the windows, then you can mount the shades inside the frame of the window. On the contrary, if you may wish to give a more tailored look to your bay window, you may put the shades outside the window frames.

Using silk panel has been a traditional way of decorating a bay window. Using fabric tapes to the inside of the window panels adds an ultra-modern flavor to the look of the windows. You may also choose to use two distinguishing colors of the silk. One for the drape and another for the band at the bottom of the silk panel.

Drapery panels may also be used at the return walls to frame the bay windows. However, you may be careful about choosing the fabric so that they do not obstruct the view by cluttering with each other. It is also suggested to hang the draperies to a higher level so that they don't look short. You may also prefer to visually raise the ceiling of the room by raising the rod to approximately 2 inches below the crown.

To make the room open and inviting, you may use valance. Use of fabric valance on top of the shutters bring out the formal nature of the room. You may also opt for a fixed valance with shades underneath to integrate the option of privacy. Sometimes it is hard to find a customized rod for a bay window. Usage of a hinged elbow that allows free twirl for a continuous application of a rod may solve the problem. This type of rods fit in any customized style of window.

Sealing your Windows from the Elements

Fri, 21 Feb 2014 00:00:00 GMT

Sealing your Windows from the elements will benefit you in many ways. You have to do it right, though. Otherwise, it will not help much at all. Therefore, do it correctly the first time.

Why Seal Your Windows?

It keeps out wind, rain and snow. Furthermore, it keeps your house warmer in the winter. This will help you save money on utility costs, and it helps you use less of the earth’s resources to climate-control your environment. Keeping the harsh elements out of your home will also keep your family from getting sick because of the way it increases your ability to regulate the temperature.

Different Types of Seals

Caulk -- Usually, you can use a gun filled with a caulk tube to dispense sealant to the outer perimeters of your windows. When choosing the substance needed for filling in these spaces, make sure the caulking material is meant for outdoor use when using it on the exterior side. You can also put caulk around the interior perimeter of your windows to increase effectiveness.

Weather strips -- Another way to close off the seams where air enters around your windows is to cover it with weather stripping. It helps block air flow in hard-to-reach areas such as where the window sash meets the stop. You could also use certain types of strips to line all areas where you seek air gaps, and you can also find ones appropriate for sealing the outer edges of your door frames.

Plastic and tape -- Another way to keep out a draft during the winter is to just block the window off altogether. You can purchase a kit that contains plastic and tape. Usually, this requires the use of a hair drier to iron out the wrinkles. However, you have to pull it as tight as you can to maximize the insulation effect.

Parts to Seal

When sealing your window from the elements, you need to block leaking are in more than just the area around each one. You also should cover up the gaps between the frame the wall as well as individual sections of the glass.

Energy Savings

People who stop the draft and elements from entering their home save at least up to 15% on the cost of heating a home. It also can reduce the amount of money spend air conditioning the home on hot days. When the most durable solutions are used, they last year after year without replacement

Making a Great First Impression

Mon, 27 Jan 2014 00:00:00 GMT

Your home is your castle, and you want it to be inviting. Your entry door is the first thing people see, and even minor damage can be the difference between a stunning or lackluster first impression. If time, weather, and normal wear and tear have taken their toll on your door; it may be time to consider entry door repair for your home.

Dents, Dings and Damage – Over time, your entry doors get damaged by usage and by the elements of nature. Kids slam them. Cats and dogs scratch at them. Wind, rain, sun, and hail age them. Whether your door is wood, metal, glass, or some type of combination, it begins to show its age with dents, scratches, and other surface damage. Simple sanding, refinishing, sealing, and power washing can reclaim your doors' original splendor.

Swell, Warp and Sag – Weather can do more than just harm the look of your doors. Constant temperature and moisture changes and the natural components used in most buildings lead to changes in the fit of your door. Wood can swell and warp over time, causing it to stick in the frame. Even metal doors may begin to sag as your home starts to settle. Replacing screws, finding friction spots, and making sure your door is smooth and plumb restores its easy swing.

Caulking, Stripping and Thresholds – Perhaps one of the most irritating entry door problems is the loss of a tight seal on the door. Even a door that sticks, due to other problems, may still be leaking cold air in the winter and heat in the summer. Caulking and weather stripping degrade over time, needing replacement when they begin to show wear. Keep an eye on loose kick plates at the base of your door as well. They may be a sign of a rotting threshold that leaves unseen breaks in the seal of your home.

Maintaining the overall beauty of your home is important, and your entry doors are a huge part of that. Even if you don't have the time or experience to keep your doors looking fresh; a professional can do your entry door repair quickly and efficiently. They'll help save you money on heating/cooling costs and restore the cozy, inviting feel of your home’s first impression.

Window Dilemma - How to Choose?

Mon, 13 Jan 2014 00:00:00 GMT

With so many window companies advertising today, how can you decide on which one to choose to do the work for your home? Most homeowners are concerned about getting quality workmanship for the best price available. Another factor to consider is the time frame in which you would want the work done.

The first thing to decide upon is the extent of window replacement that you need. Are you replacing all windows in your home, or just a few of them? Is this a new home where you are simply deciding on what kind of windows you would like to have installed?

Windows come in many diverse styles, are made with a variety of materials, and come in different qualities. Look for the energy star on the windows you are choosing, ensuring the best efficiency for your project. It is important that you research all of this to make a decision on what windows you desire to have for your home. Quality window companies can help walk you through all of these steps and help you understand which type of windows are best suited for your project.

As with any work that you have done on your home, be sure to ask for a company ID and license number. Before agreeing to any work, check with the state licensing board to make sure their license is valid. Also check out how they rate with the Better Business Bureau. Make sure they are insured and bonded.

The bottom line is that you are looking for a way to cut down energy costs by putting windows into your home that will save you money in the years to come. There are also tax advantages and incentives for using energy-efficient windows. What you might spend today on windows will reap financial benefits many times over.

Repairing Common Door Problems

Mon, 13 Jan 2014 00:00:00 GMT

A door is something most people take for granted until it starts having problems. Over time, repairs are needed and depending on the situation, the repair may be anywhere from a slight turn of a screw to a complete change-out of the door. Knowing what you are up against with a door repair is not something to pull your hair out over. A little patience and a few tools are all you need.

Many times a door will squeak. Simply using a spray lubricant on the hinges can help in putting a stop to that irritating noise. Don’t have any spray lubricant? A dribble of vegetable oil will work. It is not a perfect fix, but it will work until you can pick up a can of lubricant.

Sticky doors are a nuisance! Knowing how to fix that problem is quite easy. If the problem is in the hinge and the pins; a quick cleaning of dirt buildup may do the trick. If the door is sticking to the jamb; an adjustment to the hinges may be what is required. If the door is continuing to stick; sanding the area where the sticking occurs will remedy the problem.

For those doors that seem to be an open window with no privacy because they are hanging off kilter; it can be quite disturbing. A little inspection of the hinges may show that one is deeper than the other. A cardboard shim behind the hinge will help in hanging the door right again.

Over time, entry doors can become drafty. When this happens, the caulk around the door may need replacing. Weather-stripping is another thing to think about when air is blowing in around the door. Repairing both of these will help in saving you energy and money.

While most repairs are easy enough for any home owner to complete, knowing when to call a door company can help you keep challenging problems at bay.

Planning Your Home Improvement Year

Fri, 10 Jan 2014 00:00:00 GMT

It’s a great time to begin planning the maintenance and upkeep on your home for the coming spring. Whether your home is brand new, or older, there are several areas of exterior home repair that may need your attention in the coming months. A solid list of priorities and plan of action can make taking care of your home a breeze.

Examination – Take time to do a walk around of your home and property. Check for peeling paint, dark spots on wood, caulking and weather stripping gaps, landscaping problems, sagging gutters, rotting or warped deck planks and cracks in concrete and other stone structures. Make a list of problem areas.
Prioritize – Look at your list and decide what is most important to tackle first. A good rule of thumb is to determine if the issue is simply cosmetic, like ideas for a new garden, or if the problem could create costly repairs down the line, like broken roof slates or clogged gutters.
Budget – Take a realistic look at your monthly budget and begin setting aside the money now to take care of your top priorities. Your home is the single largest investment you make each month. Planning for small maintenance expenses now will save you money later by avoiding larger repairs. Some small repairs, like weather stripping, caulking and windows may even save on your monthly heating and cooling bills.
Write out a Plan – Once you know what needs to be done, what is most important, and you have a budget in place to get the work done, write it all down. Written plans have the benefit of providing motivation to stick to the plan when you’d rather splurge on that new TV, and giving a sense of satisfaction as less visible items on the list get checked off.

Exterior home repair doesn’t have to be a major headache. Home repair and remodel services will gladly help and also ensure that the job is done properly. Taking the time now to chart your course will give you peace of mind and protect your biggest investment in the year ahead.

Sell Your Home Quicker with These Curb Appeal Tips

Sat, 14 Dec 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Curb appeal is a big factor when it comes to selling your home. If you plan on selling your home soon, you need to figure out how to appeal to new buyers. The saying "first impressions are everything" relates because it’s very true in this situation. Not only is it about making the home look appealing to the eyes, but appeal is about going over a mental checklist of everything that needs installed, fixed, or removed before buyers come and see your property. That way you can get the best bids possible. Here are a few tips to make your curb appeal more attractive.

The House

Make sure that there is a new coat of paint on the house, new or renewed shutters, new or renewed doors, etc. Also, make sure that things are fixed like the front door hinges, screens on the screen doors and windows, and that the roof has no missing tiles or damaged ones. If the roof does have any issues that need to be improved, make sure you hire a roofing installer to fix them before you invite buyers to the home. The same goes with any gutters around the roof of the home. If you have any big or small issues you aren't ready to deal with, don't just ignore them, call a roofing installer to get them fixed now rather than later.

The Yard

This might seem like an obvious request, but make sure that the grass is green, not overgrown, and that there are no weeds in the yard. Consider planting a few nice bushes and trees around the yard that will complement the home's exterior. If you already have a few flower beds, make sure you remove any brown or dead flowers.

Yard Accessories

If you have a swimming pool - clean it out, get it chlorinated, brush the bottom of the pool, etc. If you have benches or tables - even if they are not going to be included in the sale, power wash these as well, wipe them down, and get rid of any moss or dirt that is on them.

Driveway/Walkway

If you have a driveway and a walkway, make sure you also power wash them to get rid of any leaves, grass, or gravel that doesn’t belong. If your driveway or the walkway are missing any tiles, as well as having missing pieces or cracks in them, fix these before inviting buyers to your home.

The Importance of Clean Gutters

Wed, 09 Oct 2013 00:00:00 GMT

You might not be in the habit of giving your gutters a lot of thought, but the truth is, they matter quite a lot for the good of your home. You can know your gutters are doing their job when you clean them and help prevent further debris from getting caught in them.

A neglected gutter can lead to water damage from overflow, which can lead to exterior damage as well as potential leaks into the house. Here’s how to get the most from your gutters:

Prevent as much as possible. There are two ways to do this: one is to keep your trees properly trimmed and pruned where necessary, and the other is to invest in a quality gutter guard .

Most often, gutters are clogged by pine needles, leaves, and seeds, though the occasional stray ball or carelessly tossed plastic bag could cause serious issues, as well.

You can prevent some of this with gutter guards, protective gutter coverings that allow water to flow freely but block larger items from getting caught in the gutter, allowing the water to move more freely and reducing the frequency of slow water and clogged gutters.

To get the best value from your gutter guards, have them installed professionally and make sure it’s a quality gutter guard.

Clean during the year. Once or twice a year, take a look in your gutters (or hire a professional!) and clean out debris as needed. Fall is a great time to check as leaves begin to collect on the ground, the roof, and of course, in the gutters!

If you plan on cleaning your gutters, use a sturdy ladder, gloves, a trowel, and a hose. Use work gloves and a trowel to remove large debris, then spray a strong stream of water from the hose into the gutter to flush out anything that remains.

Taking these steps will keep your gutters working beautifully and prevent damage to your home.

The Most Cost-Effective Exterior Remodeling Projects

Sun, 06 Oct 2013 00:00:00 GMT

When it’s time to do some home improvement and remodeling, it can be tricky to know where to start. Thankfully, professionals in statistics, economy, and home improvement take a close look at which projects are going to give you the greatest return on your investment, and it’s looking great for exterior and exterior/interior projects!

Of the top 10, half are exterior or combined exterior/interior projects—check out these three great options:

1. New Entry Doors . This one has been a favorite for a while, and it’s hard to deny the curb appeal of a new door, free of scuffs, clearly secure, and much more bold and interesting.

In fact, in 2011, new entry doors were a 73% return on investment, and the numbers appear to be going up! Even better, there has never been a time where you could find as many options and styles for new doors as you can now.

2. Siding. Foam-backed siding acts as both curb appeal and improved insulation for your house. This change gave back a recorded 69% return on investment—a huge number for something that is going to improve your own enjoyment of your house, as well!

When it comes to siding, you’ll want to find a professional to make sure it’s installed correctly to get the most from your investment.

3. Windows. This comes as no surprise! Replacement windows greatly improve energy efficiency while simultaneously providing a more polished look both inside and out—it doesn’t get much better than that.

When you’re choosing windows, choose windows that will last and are energy efficient, and get professional installation. A window installed incorrectly won’t give you nearly the return you’re hoping for.

Knowing what areas to target can make stepping into remodeling your home much easier!

Learning about Window Options

Thu, 08 Aug 2013 00:00:00 GMT

When it comes to windows, it can be rather confusing. Where do you begin? Whether you are building a new home or repairing an existing one, you may many different options to explore with windows. Window installer often can help you with deciding on the right windows or work with you on what you want.

Windows come in a wide variety of styles, allowing for more flexibility when choosing them for your home. Some features for various windows include light filtering, insulated glass, frame types, material, and much more. Options include everything from single and double hung windows to picture and encasement windows.

Casement windows are a single window that opens on one side when turning the window crank. The more you turn the crank, the more they open for ventilation. Some open further than others, but most are adequate.

Vertical windows are basically windows that are side by side in one surrounding frame. Each window has its own frame, but is together in one larger frame. They usually have a crank to spins in order to open for ventilation. You can also usually clean these from the inside.

Single Hung windows are fairly the same as double, except they only have one window that tilts for cleaning. They are often a cheaper cousin of double hung windows, but this may be what you desire. In some cases, you can reach up to clean the outside of the upper window, but not always. For ventilation, you simply slide these windows up or down like doubles, as well as tilt in some cases.

Double hung windows usually tilt inward for cleaning, which allows for cleaning the outside from the inside. These windows usually slide up and down to allow for ventilation adjustments.

Lastly, picture windows add a nice touch with their various shapes and designs. However, they do not open. They are great for stairways, attic rooms, etc. They allow light in, but usually there is no need to open these windows. They are more for enhancing appearance and add a nice touch to any home.

Home Appeal Roofing

Wed, 29 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

The Importance of Routine Roofing Inspection

The condition and safety of your roof is extremely important. Not only does it affect your comfort, it can also lead to even more damage in your house, and all of that adds up to a lot of money.

Prevention and early detection of roof problems is vital for both safety and your wallet.

How Do You Inspect Your Roof?

The common sense answer seems to be “grab a ladder,” but your inspection doesn’t have to be this drastic—or dangerous. According to professionals, you can do just as good a job with a pair of quality binoculars and a little bit of distance to give you a bigger view.

Stand across the street from your home with the binoculars and scan the roof carefully. Any of these signs are warning signals that your roof is in need of a closer look:

Any kind of cracking of shingles or caulking.
Any tearing at all, even a little bit.
Worn-looking shingles.
Warping.
Missing granules.

Missing granules is one many homeowners miss but it’s actually something to be highly aware of. That sandy material on your roof protects it from sun damage. Considering all of the exposure your roof gets, that’s a necessary part!

What About Maintenance?

The truth is, unless you’re an experienced roofer, a lot of these problems are just going to be a pain to fix, and possibly dangerous. Find someone who specializes in roofing and in particular, roof repairs.

Ask questions, be specific; this will help you and your roofer stay on the same page.

Home Appeal Siding

Wed, 22 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Choosing Siding Colors

Siding color matters because if you are putting siding on your house, it’s going to take up most of the visual space of your exterior. Siding comes in so many colors, though; it can be difficult to pin down exactly the one you want.

If you’re struggling to decide on a color, ask yourself these questions:

What style house do you have? Completely stumped by all the color options? That’s not as uncommon as you might think! Take cues from the house itself. What style is it—Mediterranean, Ranch-style, Spanish-style? A lot of times, that can point you in the direction of a color palette from which to choose.
You might also look at the other elements of your house: what color is your roof? Do you have plants against the siding? What color is your garage door? This can help you narrow it down even further.
What will look good next to your neighbors? You probably don’t want to copy your neighbor’s style exactly, but the color of their homes may help you make a decision for your own. Complementary or corresponding colors could get you a color area on which you can zone in and choose from.
Will I like it all year long? The danger in going with something incredibly bold is that you might find it wears off pretty quickly. Think carefully about your choice and make sure whatever you choose is something you’ll be happy with for a long time.

Narrowing down your choices by asking questions will help you get to the color you want easily.

Home Appeal Insulation

Wed, 15 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

What Does Insulation Do For Your House?

Everyone knows they have insulation in their house, but not everyone knows what insulation actually does for their home. Most people know it has something to do with hot and cold air, and some even know that it helps with energy efficiency, but do you know how?

Here’s a quick look at what insulation actually does:

Hot to Cold

Hot air will always try to get to an area that is colder. When it’s warm inside your house in the middle of December, the heat will naturally look for ways to get to the cold air outside.

In the middle of the summer, the heat does the opposite. The warm air outside, heated by the sun, tries to get to the cool air inside—you don’t want that!

This process is called “heat transfer,” and the goal is to keep the warm air where you want it, either outside or in.

How Insulation Helps

Insulation works like a barrier or a shield in the walls of your home. When heat tries to escape through it in the winter, it is slowed down, keeping it in your home much longer than if there were no insulation.

In the same way, it slows down hot air from the outside trying to come in when you’re trying to keep your home cool.

Good insulation will slow heat transfer down more than poor insulation, providing more comfort and more savings on utility bills. It’s important to make sure you’re getting good quality insulation, so ask around if you aren’t sure!

Home Appeal Windows

Wed, 08 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

How Energy Efficient are Your Windows?

Windows will never be able to provide the kind of energy efficiency you get through insulated walls, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t worry about what they can provide. Great windows can help keep your home comfortable and your utility bills lower by controlling the amount of sunlight and heat that comes into your home.

What Makes a Window More Energy Efficient?

Window types create energy efficiency based on how they’re built and how they’re installed. Great windows aren’t so great when installed poorly because air can seep in and out around the edges of the window frame!

Besides installation, though; there are factors of the window itself that make it more or less energy efficient. For instance, the more panes of glass a window has, the more energy efficient it will be (three panes is one of the highest you can get) because sunlight has to pass through more layers to get into your home.

Also, some energy efficient windows have layers of very specific types of air between the panes that helps slow down the heat transfer.

What’s the Importance of Energy Efficiency?

The reason energy efficiency is important comes down to two things: comfort and energy. When your home is not energy efficient, that means more heat escapes from your house in the winter and comes into your house in the summer, forcing your heating and air conditioning to work harder.

Not only does this reduce the comfort level in your house, making it hard to get it cool or warm enough, it also increases your utility bills as you turn the heater or air conditioning up or down to try to catch up to the energy lost.

Energy efficient windows are just part of the equation, though; and you can actually have professionals come into your home and test your home for energy efficiency if you’re looking at improving it!