CLEANING AND MAINTAINING THE GUTTERS ON YOUR HOME

As per Forbes, “There are many benefits and perks of owning a home, but maintaining their home’s gutters is not high on the proverbial list for many people. Although a home’s gutters are not necessarily an aspect of the house that owners can actively enjoy, its required regular maintenance is critical to ensuring that the structural integrity of the home stays intact so that its inhabitants can genuinely enjoy living in the space.

Malfunctioning gutters can result in flooding your home’s basement, accumulated unwanted mold and mildew, and damage to your exterior’s boards and siding. Making sure that your gutters are installed and functioning correctly is a crucial step all homeowners should take, but gutter installation and upgrade are not a one-and-done deal. Here are five tips to help you take care of your gutters so that they can do their job and protect your home.

  • Clean Your Gutters Regularly: Experts recommend cleaning out your gutters at least twice a year, ideally in the spring and again in the fall. Remember that if you live in an area heavily populated with trees, you may have to increase your annual gutter cleaning schedule to as frequently as twice a week to keep your gutters clear.
  • Install a Gutter Cover or Helmet: Gutter helmets or covers may assist in keeping large objects of debris from clogging up your gutters. A helmet typically snaps onto the top front of the gutter and drains through a cutout at the end, a helmet cover is flat and sits on top of the channel, acting like a drain with its perforated screen.
  • Hire a Professional: If the idea of climbing up to the top of your home on a ladder with supplies in tow to inspect and de-clog your gutters sends you into a state of panic, don’t worry. Some companies specialize in home maintenance, so you don’t have to worry about completing the task yourself.
  • Upgrade Your Gutters with Guards: Although your home may already be outfitted with gutters, they may need to be upgraded by adding gutter splash guards.
  • Check the Position: The positioning of your gutters is critical, and it’s time spent checking these periodically to ensure that it’s just right. Getting it wrong can wreak havoc on your house”.[1]

[1] https://www.forbes.com/advisor/home-improvement/tips-keep-gutters-clean/

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HOW TO CHOOSE A PROFESSIONAL ROOFING CONTRACTOR

Roofer Working On Exterior Of New Home

When choosing a residential roofing contractor, selecting an experienced contractor who can give your roof the quality it needs to keep your family and personal belongings safe from the outside elements is essential. When choosing a roofing contractor for your home, you must seek out multiple candidates with the proper licensing and an excellent business reputation in your area.[1]

  1. Contact three roofing contractors. Treat this step just as you would if hiring a new employee. Making the wrong decision regarding which contractor to hire will be very painful.
  2. Research and obtain the services, fees, and warranties provided by several roofing contractors before making the final hiring decision.
  3. Verify that the roofing contractor you hire has the required applicable business licenses for your state or local area.
  4. Verify that the roofing contractor or business is legitimate by asking for their tax identification number, business address, business website or email address, and contact phone number.
  5. Ask your roofing contractor for proof that shows the roofing manufacturer has approved them to install or work on the roof you have chosen.
  6. Read the warranty information for your project in full and check for understanding with the roofing contractor regarding any actions or exceptions that may void the warranty.
  7. Obtain a contract or detailed proposal in writing from the roofing contractor that will provide explicit information regarding the project.

[1] How to Choose a Residential Roofing Contractor: 10 Steps (wikihow.com)

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HOW DO HAILSTORMS AFFECT THE LIFE OF YOUR ROOF?

Hailstorms damage your roofing system very severely. It is highly advised that you can call for an inspection after the storm that hits your home. Slim and Trim construction provides free inspection services after the storm hits.

Let me know how hailstorms affect the life of your roof.[1]

“Your roofing system acts as the first line of defence when protecting your home against various weather elements. While every homeowner is well aware of the risks that storms and weather pose to their roofs, most don’t understand how they affect their roofing structures. Roof damage can happen gradually over time and go unnoticed, especially if you don’t carry out regular roof inspections. Extreme weather—like snowstorms, hurricanes, hailstorms, torrential rains, and heat—can also cause significant damage to your roof.

Storms are usually accompanied by fast-moving and strong winds that wreak havoc along their path. These winds are one of the most common causes of roof damage in residential and commercial structures. As the breezes get more robust, roof tiles and shingles become loose and fall off your roof, leaving your home susceptible to leaks and other dangers. Intense storms not only damage your roof but can also damage your wooden roofing frame.

After a storm, it’s highly advisable to check the condition of your roof. If there is any visible damage, you should call an experienced roofing contractor to do a thorough inspection and repair the damage as soon as possible”.

[1] How Do Storms & Weather Affect Your Roof? – (scrapality.com)

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WHY SHOULD YOU HAVE A PROFESSIONAL ROOF INSPECTION AFTER A STORM?

No matter how intense a storm hits your area, it is wise to get a roof inspection by a professional that can guide you well and help you manage and repair the roof if necessary.

Here we will discuss why a professional roof inspection is essential after a heavy storm.

A professional roof inspection can help you know how bad the damage may be and how to rectify it before it gets out of hand. Your inspector is in a place to let you know if you need a simple repair or a total roof replacement.

If your roof is damaged to the point of needing full replacement most people can get a brand new roof for only the cost of their deductible through their insurance.

Many people worry about filing a claim through their insurance company because they are afraid their rates will increase. However, weather related events (high winds, hail, etc.) are considered “no fault” claims that have little to no effect on your premiums.

This will help you make the decision quicker. Also, remember that the benefits of having your roof professionally inspected after a storm far outweigh the cost of doing so; talk less of the cost of not even having one done. Especially since many contractors, including Slim and Trim Construction, will inspect your roof for FREE! These are some of the benefits of having a professional Roof Inspection after a storm

  1. Calling for a professional roof inspection saves money over time
  2. Having Professional Roof Inspection Can Help You Handle Insurance Claims
  3. Most Storm Damage Inspections Are Free.
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ARCHITECTURAL vs 3-TAB SHINGLES

Roofing has more to do than just constructing it; you need to make the right decisions to make it more durable, inexpensive and just looks brilliant. In this blog, we will talk about the two most common types of roofs.

As per Bill Ragan[1], 3-Tab Shingles and Architectural Shingles (dimensional shingles) are asphalt-based roofing materials. They both have a unique design to help give your roof a look you want. Here is some difference between both these types.

3-Tab Shingles

  • 3-tab asphalt shingles lay flat and get their name because of the three tabs on each shingle strip.
  • 3-tab shingles used to dominate the roofing industry and are the cheapest of the three types of asphalt shingles.
  • 3-tab shingles have a manufacturer-specified lifespan of 25 years.
  • 3-tab shingles come out of the package with a 25-year warranty.
  • 3-tab shingles are the cheapest of the three types of asphalt shingles and are a great option if you’re on a tight budget.

Architectural Shingles

  • Architectural shingles give your roof a random pattern or simulate the look of wood/cedar shakes.
  • Architectural shingles are the most common type of asphalt shingle and roofing material installed on roofs today. If you’re walking down the street in your neighbourhood, most houses have architectural shingles on their roof.
  • Architectural shingles have a manufacturer-specified lifespan of 30 years.
  • Architectural shingles come out of the package with a 30-year prorated warranty.
  • Architectural shingles are around 15% more than 3-tab but give you more life and better warranty options.

[1] (67) 3-tab Shingles vs. Architectural Shingles (Lifespan, Cost, and More) | LinkedIn

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PROPER ROOF VENTILATION

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VINYL vs WOOD WINDOWS

Windows are another essential part of home construction. It is necessary to keep your home well ventilated, for that window plays a vital role. Here in the construction industry, we have often seen people talking about the Vinyl and Wood windows, and the debate is quite natural. In this blog, let’s look at some pros of the window options that are quite popular among the general masses. As per Window World[1], Wood and Vinyl are two of the most popular options.

Wood Windows: Wood windows are a classic choice, and many people love the look of wooden windows.

  • Natural wood windows have an unmistakable natural beauty.
  • Wooden windows are very insulative, which can help protect homes from warm and cold weather.
  • A wooden window replacement can help increase the value of your home and provide an average ROI (return on investment) of around 67.4%.

Vinyl Windows: Vinyl windows are generally made from high-quality extruded PVC. They’re affordable, durable, and low maintenance, making them a top choice for many homeowners.

  • Vinyl resists water and pests, making vinyl windows a long-lasting, durable, and low-maintenance window choice. 
  • Vinyl window replacements cost at least 15% less than wood window replacements. 
  • Vinyl windows come in a variety of colors and styles. They can even mimic the look of wooden windows.
  • Vinyl windows will never need to be repainted or stained to maintain their appearance and function. 
  • As long as you choose a high-quality exterior home remodeler that sells high-quality products, vinyl windows can be highly energy-efficient and insulative.

A full vinyl window replacement can increase the value of your home by over $13,000 with an ROI of around 68.6% – even higher than wood windows.

[1] Wood vs. Vinyl Windows: Which Is the Best Choice? | Window World

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DIFFERENT TYPES OF ROOFING

Roofing is one of the major components when it comes to home construction. There are multiple roofing options available in the market; it is highly suggested that one need to choose the type of roofing that suits your home, weather conditions and your budget. As per Forbes Advisor,[1] a few types of roofing are being installed in the USA.

  1. Shingles (Asphalt, Fiberglass, Composite): Almost 90% of homes in the US use composite asphalt shingles because they’re affordable, durable and easy to install.
  2. Metal Roofing: Metal roofing feels like a stylish choice and continues to be a popular choice today because materials like aluminium and zinc are affordable, easy to transport, low-maintenance and beautiful—even with age.
  3. Wood Roofing: Wood roofing pairs well with cottages and Cosy Craftsman and Tudor-style homes. Wood roofs can last 50 years in dry climates but must be treated in fire-prone areas like California.
  4. Clay Tiles: Clay tiles are one of the most popular roofing materials in the world.
  5. Slate Roofing: Slate is one of the most durable types of roofing material and is similar in cost to clay tiles. This material can last 50 to 200 years. In addition to being fireproof and resistant to high winds and extreme temperatures, it is also resistant to impact from hail and small branches.
  6. Green Roofing: Green roofs (or living roofs) cover your home with vegetation like grasses or native wildflowers that support pollinators and have many benefits such as combatting excessive heat outside the home and reducing rainwater runoff.
  7. Solar Shingles: Solar shingles are one of the newest roofing materials. It may work efficiently for 20 to 30 years, but this renewable energy solution is an expensive investment.
  8. Rolled Roofing: One of the most affordable types of roofing, rolled roofing is quite popular with homeowners and builders on a budget and is best for roofs with a lower incline; this rolled material can be hammered quickly into place.

[1] Types of Roofing To Consider – Forbes Advisor

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THE BENEFITS OF VINYL SIDING

The growing construction industry is evolving in terms of innovation. Vinyl siding is not new in the market, but it has massive benefits. Most constructors endorse the use of vinyl siding because of its durability, which is aesthetic and weatherproof at the same time.

Let us look at the benefits of vinyl siding. As per Rollex,[1] below are six reasons to choose vinyl siding.

  1. Low Maintenance: Many materials claim to be low maintenance, but vinyl comes out on top. While other siding materials have a finish applied to the surface, vinyl’s color penetrates throughout the material. This means the paint won’t chip, peel or flake.
  2. Water Resistant: Vinyl is a type of plastic made of polyvinyl chloride, and, like other plastics, it’s unaffected by moisture or water. That makes it ideal for use in climates that experience a lot of rainfall. While wood siding may swell and warp with humidity, vinyl is completely unaffected by rain and moisture. It won’t swell, shrink, warp, rust or rot.
  3. Pest Resistant: Vinyl also resists insect activity. While wood siding can be prone to termites, carpenter ants, carpenter bees, wasps and other wood-boring insects, vinyl isn’t attractive to any of them. You won’t have to worry about wood-boring insects taking up residence in your exterior or rodents chewing holes in your siding to better access your home.
  4. Multiple Options: Vinyl siding is a type of plastic, and like other plastics, it can be moulded into any shape and infused with any color. When it comes to vinyl, siding can be fashioned into the most popular siding colors and styles. This includes horizontal lap siding, shingles and more.
  5. Easy to install: Vinyl is one of the most accessible and specific types of siding to install when purchased from a quality manufacturer. This locking system makes it easy for a single person to install the vinyl instead of needing a team.
  6. Environmentally Friendly: While vinyl won’t rot or decompose, it can be recycled. So leftover siding and cut pieces can be disposed of environmentally friendly. Vinyl also doesn’t require painting every few years. This is also a plus for the environment because fewer VOCs are being released into the air around your home. VOCs from paint off-gas 50% in the first year, then continue releasing into the atmosphere for the next five years. And once those five years are up, you’re likely to need to repaint your wood siding.

[1] 6 Benefits of Choosing Vinyl Siding | Rollex

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WHAT IS ATTIC RAIN?

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