Home Builders Assocation Storm Recover Guide 1_2019

2019

STORM

INSIDE: Articles & Businesess to help you with Storm Recovery

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ABOUT THE HBA

1645 Avenue D, Suite F  Billings, MT 59102 (406) 252-7533 www.hbabillings.net

INSIDE Don’t Get Scammed: Find a Qualified Contractor

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Protect Your Home

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Home Maintenance Quiz

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Protect Your Roof So It Protects You

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Spot Home Damage

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Make Your Home Safe

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Fall Maintenance Tips

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The Home Builders Association of Billings is comprised of over 450 building industry members. This is important to you because their membership means they strive to maintain the highest standards in all aspects of their business and the building industry. Today’s home building industry requires skilled, knowledgeable professionals who are committed to quality and a solid code of ethics. Our members stay abreast of the latest industry trends, technology, innovative financing options, and changes in state and local codes and ordinances. This all benefits you when you choose to do business with an HBA member.

As Billings’ primary resource for building industry professionals and affiliates, we are committed to maintaining the highest level of professionalism within the industry and continuously advocate for your right to have the home of your dreams. So before you build, buy, remodel, or redesign, we encourage you to utilize the HBA as a resource to find the professional you need for your project.

HBA BOARD & STAFF MEMBERS HBA OFFICERS

HBA STATE DIRECTORS

Andrew Newman, Newman Restoration & Cleaning President

Jan Rehberg, Rehberg Ranch Nick Ban, Ban Construction Mike Vinton, Vinton Construction

Greg McCall, McCall Homes

Exterior Home Painting Tips

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Steve Wells, Wells Built Homes 1st Vice Pres

Power Outage Safety

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Kolten Knatterud, Territorial Landworks 2nd Vice President

Get Your Home Winter Ready

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Brad McCall, McCall Homes Immediate Past President

Light Up Your Home

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Wayne Nelson, Stockman Bank Treasurer

Myles Egan, Berkshire Hathaway Home Services

Women in Construction Trade

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HBA BUILDER DIRECTORS

Bob Glasgow, Knife River

Emergency Prep For Seniors

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Financial Impact

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HBA Membership List

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Joe Bonini, Bonini Construction Sam Nelson, Cougar Construction Trent Parks, Billings Best Builders Mark Allen, Trailhead Builders of Montana Jerrett Smith, Branding Iron Construction

HBA ASSOCIATE DIRECTORS Brittani Hunter, Coldwell Banker The Brokers Randy Mostad, Carpet One

The Storm Recovery Guide is a special section of the Billings Gazette.

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September 2019

Kristy Berckmoes, Beyond the Box Brian Williams, Yellowstone Bank

Kolten Knatterud, Territorial Landworks Beau Thompson, Thompson Homes

HBA LIFE DIRECTORS Jeff Engel, Jeff Engel Construction, Inc. Stan Helgeson, Helgeson Homes Ron Hill, Specialized Construction Mark Johnson, MJ Construction Jeff Junkert, Jeff Junkert Construction Ray Mehrer, R & R Builders

NAHB DIRECTORS (National Association of Home Builders Liaison) Nick Ban, Ban Construction Joe Bonini, Bonini Construction Emily Kreiger, Ferguson Enterprises Jake Pierce, Pierce Flooring & Cabinet Design Center

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DON’T GET

SCAMMED: Find a Qualified Contractor

By KIMBERLY WELZENBACH CEO, Home Builders Association of Billings

T

here are thousands of legitimate, ethical contractors in business around the area. Unfortunately, there are also scam artists looking to cheat you out of your money who pose as legitimate contractors. These “fly-by-night” operators often called “storm chasers” show up in commu-

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SEPTEMBER 2019

nities impacted by natural disasters to try to scam distressed home owners into paying for shoddy repairs or work that they will never show up to perform.

Here are some warning signs to look out for:  Doesn’t have license and insurance.

All professional contractors should be insured and able to show their certificate proving such insurance. Although Montana does Please see SCAMMED, Page 8

Storm Recovery Guide

Avoid Summer Storm Fraud Using These Tips The National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) notes that in 2016, “Across the nation, most hail claims, 55 percent, were for home damage with personal auto damage representing 32 percent of all hail claims.”

You can worry about what may happen to your property when hailstorms strike, or you can be prepared. The 3 most important steps you can take to protect your home, business or vehicle? Easy. Have a strong: roof, insurance policy and relationship with your insurance agent.

Don’t Be Shy When it comes to reviewing your policy, don’t be afraid to talk about potential losses with your agent.

Keeping the conversation clear and open are great ways to make sure that nothing slips through the cracks.

“Don’t be afraid to bring up the subject to see how your policy would respond to a hail claim,” Melissa Thompson, PayneWest Client Relations Associate Director, says. You might find you can avoid problems with a little planning.

“A transparent conversation with your agent might save you lots of money later,” Thompson notes.

“Lots of consumers, especially in this area of the country, have already had some hail repairs done, and they may have put on 30- or 50-year hail-resistant shingles,” she says. “Don’t forget to let your

Storm Recovery Guide

agent know about these repairs!

You might be able to get discounts on your policy.”

Be Proactive It doesn’t have to be hail season (spring, summer, and fall) to have that conversation about coverage with your agent. In fact, it might be easier to discuss matters when lots of claims aren’t coming in from the past week’s storms.

If you’re worried that you might be under-insured, or if you’ve added property you haven’t covered, it’s better to talk before those storms are on the horizon. We know that insurance isn’t what everybody (except us) wants to talk about all day, that’s why we value having open and honest conversations with our clients, to make everything as easy as possible.

The NICB also has a simple list of what you should (and shouldn’t) do to avoid fraud when you’re looking to get repairs done after a hailstorm: ▶ Get more than one estimate. ▶ Get everything in writing. Cost, work to be done, time schedules, guarantees, payment schedules and other expectations should be detailed. ▶ Demand references and check them. ▶ Ask to see the salesperson’s driver’s license and write down the license number and their vehicle’s license plate number. ▶ Never sign a contract with blanks; unacceptable terms can be added later. ▶ Never pay a contractor in full or sign a completion certificate until the work is finished, and ensure reconstruction is up to current code. ▶ Make sure you review and understand all documents sent to your insurance carrier. ▶ Never let a contractor pressure you into hiring them. ▶ Never let a contractor interpret the insurance policy language. ▶ Never let a contractor discourage you from contacting your insurance company.

IF YOU DO HAVE DAMAGE, and you’ve secured your home and your family, then it’s the right time to call your PayneWest Insurance agent, (406) 238-1900.

PayneWest.com/Billings

September 2019

7

Scammed

Offers “special” pricing. If you’re told you’ve been “chosen” as a demonstration project at a special, low price, or you’re told a low price is good only if you sign a contract today.

Cannot provide customer references. Professional contractors should have current references they can provide from current and past clients — and you should be able to reach those references, not just an answering machine.

Difficulty contacting the contractor. Professionals have a physical office, mailing address, phone, and email. They should respond to your queries in a timely manner. Make sure you can verify the contractor’s business address. If they only have a post office box, be wary. Check with Home Builders Association for verification.

Tells you to obtain the building or remodeling permits. Professional contractors go to the city, county or state offices and get permits for their work themselves. Asking the home owner to do it is a sign that they are not a legitimate contractor.

Your best bet is to take your time, do your research and choose someone you feel completely comfortable with. The Home Builders Association can provide you with information as to the legitimacy of their business and they can inform you of any records of consumer complaints. You can also find list of reputable contractors in your area through the Home Builders Association.

For more information about getting your home in shape for summer, contact the Home Builders Association of Billings at 406-252-7533 or online at HBABillings.net.

From Page 6

not require licensing, contractors in Montana should provide proof of insurance.

Asks you to sign anything before you’ve hired them.

If they want you to sign an “estimate” or “authorization” before you’ve made the decision to hire the contractor, look out. They may be trying to get you to sign what is an actual binding contract. READ CAREFULY. Doesn’t write contracts. Professionals have clear contracts that outline the job, process, the cost, and helps clarify how problems will be managed. If you don’t have a contract, you are not protected when something goes wrong. Don’t hire anyone who tells you a contract “won’t be necessary.”

Requires cash or payment in full before starting the job. Shady contractors demand cash and then run with the money. Many home owners have been stranded by paying in full up front. A deposit towards materials is common, but only pay it once you have a contract signed by both you and the contractor. It’s also suspect you’re asked to pay cash to a salesperson instead of a check or money order to a company.

Vastly underbids all other contractors. They may have the best price, but that doesn’t guarantee the best work. Such contractors may cut costs on quality, which can end up costing you more when you have to have the substandard work redone.

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Protect Your Home from Severe Weather

By KIMBERLY WELZENBACH CEO, Home Builders Association of Billings Imagine trying to stand erect and stay in one piece in the midst of high-speed winds and torrential rains. Your house may face this challenge, during summer storms or throughout the year.

During Mother Nature’s wicked rages, you and your family can evacuate your home or, in less severe conditions, snuggle within its cozy walls. But your house must always face the elements and protect your family and possessions.

Equip your home with the accessories it will need to survive a storm. Don’t wait until the forecast calls for severe weather because, at that point, you may not have enough time to take necessary preparations.

Before you do anything else, look over your insurance policies to make sure you’re covered for losses incurred as the result of a natural disaster or brutal storm. Damage caused by flooding and earthquakes is generally not covered by your regular homeowner’s policy, but can be purchased separately. Make lists or videotapes of your belongings as documentation for the insur-

Prepare for tough storms by caulking around door and window frames.

ance company, and keep that documentation in a safe location away from your house.

Try to prevent wind and water from entering through windows, cracks, entry doors and garage doors. Wind funneling through your house pushes upward, and

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September 2019

could lift the roof, allowing heavy rains to damage the interior of your home.

Especially in high wind-prone areas it is important to seal your windows and doors as tightly as possible. You can purchase and install special storm shutters to cover your windows.

Or, make your own set of shutters out of ¾ inch marine plywood or metal storm panels. Make sure they overlap the windows on all sides by four inches. Then mark them so you know which window they fit. Don’t forget to make shutters for your skylight windows. Once made, the shutter panels can be stored and used when necessary.

These shutters can help protect homes from all rainstorms accompanied by high winds.

After you’ve made shutters for all your windows, start working on your doors. If you live in an area that frequently gets heavy storms, consider installing steel entry doors. High winds can easily tear through double doors, French doors and sliding patio doors that have no structural support between the two sides. You may need to purchase and install special hardware to more adequately secure the doors where they meet. Try bolts that fasten the door into the framing at the top and the bottom.

If it’s in good condition, your home’s roof can shield its interior from the storm outside. So roof work is another essential step in preparing your house to withstand a severe storm. Apply sealing around your home’s chimney or vent pipes. This will help prevent water from seeping into your home. Hire a contractor to check the structural integrity of the roof system.

Clean out clogged gutters and downspouts. If the rain that accompanies a heavy storm can’t run through the gutters and downspouts, it will spill over the sides,

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landing in areas where it can soak through to your home’s foundation, causing flooding and structural damage.

Next, take steps to protect your home from objects that take flight during a storm.

Do a little yard work. Remove all dead and dying limbs from your trees, and secure lawn furniture, trashcans, flowerpots and other yard ornaments. Disconnect and remove exterior television antennas from the roof. Then take all lawn furniture, grills, potted plants and other lawn accessories inside your house. If you can’t secure lawn furniture or other outdoor items, bring them inside as well. High-speed winds could transform any of these objects into flying missiles. Tie down the larger items such as sheds, doghouses, playhouses, swing sets and boats.

Finally, stock your cupboards and closets with anything you might need if you have to take shelter inside your house during a summer storm. Keep a battery-operated radio, several flashlights in case you lose electricity, and plastic sheeting to cover exposed areas. And fill your drawers with brand new packages of live batteries for the flashlights.

Stash canned foods and other non-perishable food items in your cupboards in case you can’t get out to the supermarket for a while. And pile blankets into your closets in case you lose electricity and your house becomes cold.

When you and your house are prepared, you’re more likely to weather the toughest storm. Taking time now to prepare your home for storm season could save you a lot of money later.

For more information about protecting your home, contact the Home Builders Association of Billings at 406-252-7533 or online at HBABillings.net.

Storm Recovery Guide

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Storm Recovery Guide

September 2019

11

HOME MAINTENANCE QUIZ Your home may be the biggest investment you will ever make.

Taking good care of it with regular maintenance is necessary to maintain its value and ensure it will provide a comfortable, safe shelter for you and your family for a long time.

Here is a home maintenance quiz that will test your maintenance knowledge. While this quiz does not address every home maintenance project, it does provide helpful tips and reminders for chores you may have overlooked.

7. What faucet part needs to be cleaned every three to four months?

A qualified roofer should inspect your roof every Aerator — the screen inside the end of the faucet. three years.

8. What can you use for traction on icy sidewalks, steps and driveways?

Cat litter or sand — never use salt because it damages the pavement.

9. Where should the fire in your fireplace be built?

On the andirons or grate, never on the fireplace floor.

1. How often do forced-air furnace filters need to be changed?

4. How often should the moving parts of garage doors be oiled?

At least every three months during the heating season.

Every three months.

2. What part of the faucet usually needs to be replaced when you have a water leak?

The washer.

3. Should you run hot or cold water through your garbage disposal?

5. What tools can you use to unclog your drains?

A plunger and a plumber’s snake.

6. What tool can be used to unclog a toilet?

Coil spring-steel auger.

Cold water.

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10. What will prevent soot and add color to the fire in your fireplace?

Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.

Outside, away from your house and not directly on the ground.

Spackling.

12. What helps keep unpainted concrete floors easy to keep clean?

24. What is the white powdery substance that develops on masonry walls?

Concrete sealer.

Efflorescence sometimes appears on masonry walls. It is crystallized soluble salts that can be removed by scrubbing with water and a stiff brush.

13. What should you use to clean unpainted concrete floors?

A solution of 4 to 6 tablespoons of washing soda in a gallon of hot water. Mix scouring powder to the solution for tough jobs.

14. When can you clean hardwood floors with water?

When the floors have a polyurethane finish.

15. Do hardwood floors need to be waxed?

Hardwood floors that do not have a polyurethane finish probably will need to be waxed periodically.

Use liquid or paste “spirit” wax.

In new homes because gallons of water went into the concrete of basement walls.

18. Why should noisy water pipes be fixed promptly?

The condition that causes noisy pipes may be accompanied by vibration that can cause fittings to loosen and leak.

September 2019

22. To ensure your safety, what household equipment uses batteries that must be checked regularly to make sure they are operable?

23. What do you use to fill nail holes and cracks in plaster walls and gypsum wallboard?

17. When is basement condensation at its maximum?

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The alarms and circuit breakers should be checked to make sure they are in working order and the sensors should be inspected one by one.

11. Where should your firewood be stored?

Water emulsion wax.

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21. What should be regularly checked on your security system?

Throw in a handful of salt.

16. What is the best polish for vinyl floors?

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20. How often should your roof be inspected?

19. Why should frozen pipes be thawed slowly?

Frozen pipes should be thawed slowly to prevent the formation of steam, which could cause the pipe to burst.

25. At what temperature should your water heater be set?

120 degrees Fahrenheit 26. How often do skylights need to be inspected?

Skylights should be inspected each time your roof is inspected so leaks don’t develop from cracks and interruptions around its seals, caulking and flashings.

27. What is a simple solution you can use to wash extremely dirty exterior windows?

A solution of equal parts vinegar and water or 3 tablespoons of denatured alcohol per quart of warm water. Use a piece of crumpled newspaper to wash the glass to avoid lint left behind by paper towels.

28. What can you use to help a window slide easily?

Rub the channel with a piece of paraffin.

29. What should you look for when you inspect your siding yearly?

Determine if wood-sided homes need to be repainted; check to see if the caulking around the windows and doors has split and cracked, and replace the caulk; clean the mildew; trim shrubbery away so it does not touch the siding.

Storm Recovery Guide

Protect Your Roof So It Protects You

By KIMBERLY WELZENBACH CEO, Home Builders Association of Billings A home is the biggest investment most people will ever make, which is why home owners often go to great lengths to protect that investment.

But one of the more important components of safeguarding a home is also one of the most often ignored: the roof.

It’s tempting to devote more time and attention to more fashionable maintenance and upgrades like updated kitchen appliances or new bathroom vanities. However, those improvements might lose much of their appeal if water begins dripping through the ceilings or mold starts growing in the walls.

The top of your to-do list should include what’s on top of your house.

Take the time to ensure your roof is up to the task of protecting everything — and everyone — it shelters beneath by following these simple steps: 1. Start by visually scanning the roof for any sagging or uneven areas, which can be signs of damage to the roof deck below the shingles.

2. Clear the gutters of any branches, leaves or other debris that could clog downspouts. Water or snow that is left standing on the roof will increase the likelihood of leaking, which can damage not only to the roof, but the interior walls as well.

3. Ensure the gutters are fastened properly and securely to the fascia board, to minimize the risk of the gutters loosening or falling off after heavy snow and/or ice.

4. Remove any debris from the valleys, including small branches and accumulating leaves, which can add weight to the roof and also inhibit proper drainage.

5. Check the positioning and the condition of the flashings, which are the thin pieces of material, often made of aluminum or other metals, used to prevent water seepage between joints and seams around vents, pipes, skylights, and chimneys. When loosened or damaged by high winds and heavy rains, flashings can actually cause leaks rather than prevent them.

6. Examine the condition of the shingles and repair or replace any that might be missing or damaged. Look for curling edges or missing granules.

Inspecting your roof at least twice a year (before and after winter) by following these steps will help you identify potential problems before they result in costly repairs or even premature roof replacement.

For additional home owner resources, contact the Home Builders Association of Billings at 406-252-7533 or online at HBABillings.net.

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13

Spot Home Damage Before It’s Too Late

Wood shingle roof in poor repair. Wood shingles are thin, tapered pieces of wood primarily used to cover roofs and walls of buildings to protect them from the weather.

By KIMBERLY WELZENBACH CEO, Home Builders Association of Billings

H

ome owners are well advised to conduct regular checks around their homes. By keeping their eyes peeled, they have a better chance at preventing a small leak from becoming major water damage, an improperly sealed window from turning into a significant mold issue, and so on.

Here are some general tips for keeping your home in good shape and minimizing repairs as much as possible over time.

Roof

Starting at the top, the roof is a critical part of your home, and one you may not look at very often. Check your roof for curling, cracked or missing shingles and for signs of overall wear. It is well worth

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SEPTEMBER 2019

Sheila Fitzgerald

the investment to make small repairs working order, and properly maintain beneficial. A telling foundation issue is as needed to avoid most costly damage them with routine cleaning and fi lter re- a cracking or separation in the bricks on placement. which your home rests and in your basedown the road. ment. A lesser-known sign of damage is when door and window frames become Water Insects and Rodents The main reason for ensuring your The appearance of ants and insects as out of alignment. Your basement door roof is in good shape is to avoid water well as rodents is always unwelcome. But no longer closes and you notice a crack leaks into your home. A light brown or it can also mean damage to your home, forming in a basement window? It might sunken spot in your ceilings can be a tell- especially from termites and burrow- mean your foundation is shifting, and tale sign. As can a musty, moldy smell. ing rodents. Regularly do a deep clean of that’s never good news.

While these are just a few tips and not Ceilings, walls and floors with wa- your floors and carpets, and check outter damage can be soft or spongy to the doors for any openings into your exterior a comprehensive checklist, think of it as touch. And you may even hear dripping if brick, walls and roof. Call a professional a friendly reminder you to keep your eyes peeled for potential home repair needs plumbing is the source of your leak. if you suspect you have a pest problem. that shouldn’t wait. Remember that contractors, remodelers and inspection proAppliances Foundation fessionals have the expertise to help you You may not realize that a refrigeraFoundation issues could be the result address critical home issues that rear tor can cause you more grief than warm of poor drainage around your home, in- their ugly head. food, but if the appliance springs a leak, tense dry and moist seasons over time, Contact the Home Builders Assoit often goes unnoticed while it wreaks or just plain faulty home construction. ciation at 406-252-7533 to fi nd the most havoc in your home. Check to make sure While there are not a lot of quick fi xes, trusted professionals to help you with all of your large appliances are in good noticing it sooner rather than later is still your home repair and remodeling needs.

Storm Recovery Guide

Make Your Home Safe for All Ages

By KIMBERLY WELZENBACH Home Builders Association of Billings

Your 80-year-old aunt is coming to stay for a few days. You’re looking forward to the visit, but realize your home may not be entirely “older-generation” friendly. To help enhance the safety and comfort of your visitor, especially one who may have some of the physical challenges that come with aging, here are a few quick and inexpensive things you can do to make the time less stressful for you and more comfortable for your guest:

ture that a person usually has to maneuver around.

Move any electrical cords that are where a person might walk – perhaps taping them to a wall or using a hook. Clear stairs of any objects—shoes, books, and other personal items that tend to collect on the lower treads. Also check that railings on stairs inside and out are secure, and make repairs where needed.

Lighting is crucial.

Put night lights in bathrooms, the guest bedroom, any hallways near the guest bedroom, and perhaps in the kitchen. Make sure there is a lamp or light Consider pathways in switch within easy reach of the guest bed so that your the house. visitor can keep a light on Clear obstacles, and until safely tucked in. Wellmaybe even move furni- lit outdoor walkways and

entrances are also key for coming r going when it is dark.

Be sure the shower your guest will use has a nonslip floor. To enhance the traction, apply non-slip strips or a suction-attached non-slip mat, both readily available at home improvement stores.

Secure or, preferably, remove any throw rugs, including bathroom mats.

Edges of rugs can be a tripping hazard, and even a slight scoot can affect a person’s balance. If there are rugs you want to secure rather than remove, non-slip pads can help, but safer still would be to apply double-sided carpet tape or even caulk to attach the rug

to the floor. If you choose one of these methods, be mindful that you don’t mar the floor underneath.

Identify seating in your gathering rooms that is appropriately firm, high in the seat, and preferably that has arms to help a person easily sit down and get up.

A chair that is too soft or too low to the ground can strand a person awkwardly.

If in doubt about the available seating in the room, bring a dining chair with arms into the room as an alternative.

If you are considering other more long-term home modifications for aging in place, be sure to consult a remodeler or contractor who is a Certified Aging-inPlace Specialist. Find one in your area by contacting the Home Builders Association at 406-252-7533.

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ESSENTIAL FALL HOME MAINTENANCE CHECKLIST biggest investments: your home. and if so, apply the appropriate caulk or come clogged over time, even if they Here are a few projects to cross off your sealant. have guards intended to keep out debris. to-do list: Regularly inspect and clean gutters thoroughly, paying special attention to elPlants are still blooming and temps are Close Off the Escape Routes still well above freezing, but don’t be fooled Mind the Gaps Heat rises, which mean heat from your bows and bends in the downspouts. Keep — the seasons will soon be changing. Before Heated air can escape from gaps that home also can escape through any vulner- hangers fastened securely and plug any fall and winter are officially upon us, now develop where building materials meet. able areas of the roof. The most efficient holes or cracks. You can also touch up any is the time to focus on some simple home Some of the most common areas include way to stop that heat loss is by installing sections showing signs of rust with rustmaintenance projects to prepare for the where exterior siding meets windows and ceiling and roof insulation with an R-value proof paint. chilly weather ahead. The best part is that doors, around roof and foundation lines, of approximately R49 to R60 for uninsumany of these projects can be done at little around chimneys and where pipes pro- lated attics and R38 to R49 for attics with Augment Your Heating Unit or no cost, and they can help you save mon- trude through walls or roofs. Check those an existing 3-4 inches of inslation. The RConsider replacing an older or inefey on your energy bills. More importantly, locations to see if any gaps have formed value refers to the ability of any material to ficient heating unit with a gas or oil furthey help enhance and protect one of your nace, or a heat pump with a high efficiency resist the passage of heat. rating. If your system already is efficient, be sure to inspect it regularly and change Gird Up Your Windows Ensure that your storm windows and filters monthly. Consider investing in a doors are effectively keeping warm air smart thermostat that can help save you in and cold air out. Look for any cracks money by automatically adjust temperaOffice: 406.894.0224 around glass, sashes and window frames. tures at times while you are sleeping or Apply adhesive foam weather strips to the when no one is home.

Fax: 844.208.7691 Performing routine home maintetop and bottom window rails, or nail felt nance projects like these can have an imcwyckoff@bigskyed.com weather stripping where window sashes and frames make contact. Newer homes mediate impact on lowering your energy are much more likely to have double or tri- bills and maintaining the safety of your Mailing Address: P.O. Box 20853•Billings, MT 59104 ple-paned windows, which can dramati- family. They also offer the long-term Showroom & Warehouse: 612 Charles•Billings, MT benefits of prolonging the life of your cally improve energy efficiency. home and enhancing its value. www.bigskyed.com For more tips on home maintenance, Give the Gutters a Glance visit HBABillings.net and click on the Siding•Windows•Siffit•Foscia•and More Gutters and downspouts can easy be- Home Owners and Buyers button.

By KIMBERLY WELZENBACH Home Builders Association of Billings

Curt Wyckoff

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September 2019

Storm Recovery Guide

CITY OF BILLINGS BUILDING & SAFETY DIVISION 2825 3rd Avenue North, 4th floor Billings, Montana 59101 Office (406) 657-8270 Fax (406) 657-8252 ci.billings.mt.us

Building Code Reminder

A man on a ladder uses spray gun to paint the exterior of a wooden building

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Exterior Home Painting Tips If you’re thinking about painting the exterior of your home yourself, your first decision shouldn’t concern the color or sheen of the paint but, rather, who’s going to do the painting. Deciding whether to hire a contractor or do the work yourself has implications for your social calendar, your peace of mind and your pocketbook.

With so much at stake, how do you make the right decision? This information from the Paint Quality Institute can help you make the right decision.

1. Do you have enough time to do the job? Repainting a home can take a full week or two. For many people, that translates into a lot of vacation days or weekends. Are you willing to make the sacrifice?

2. Do you have the patience to do the job correctly? While painting can be fun and psychologically rewarding, good surface preparation — essential to any successful paint job — can be tedious. Will you really take time to properly prepare the surface before yielding to the urge to paint?

(Consider renting power-washing equipment to speed surface preparation.)

3. Can you afford to hire a contractor? By doing the job yourself, you can save a lot of money, however, having your home professionally painted will be faster and eliminates the need for you to buy equipment, prepare the surface, and do the actual painting.

4. Do you have the proper equipment? The highest quality acrylic latex paint costs more than $20 per gallon, but it takes more than paint and elbow grease to do the best job. You’ll also need ladders, scrapers, sandpaper, brushes or rollers and safety equipment. Do you have these Storm Recovery Guide

items? Are you willing to invest in them?

5. Are you in good health and reasonably fit? Achieving professional-looking painting results is within the skill level of most do-it-yourselfers, but if you are out of shape, you may find the work somewhat taxing.

6. Do you enjoy physical work? From a psychological standpoint, many home owners get enormous satisfaction from completing a home improvement project.

Along with the cost savings, this is one of the rewards that go to those who do their own painting.

7. Have you done exterior painting before? As with most home improvement projects, painting is easier “the second time around,” after you’ve mastered surface preparation and application techniques.

8. Are you afraid of heights? Look to the highest point of your house. Would you be nervous painting it from a ladder? If so, proceed to your telephone directory and check the listing for “Painting Contractors.”

If you ultimately decide to do your own exterior painting, proceed with confidence. Exterior painting is one of the top do-it-yourself projects (trailing only interior painting). Many home owners go it alone and get great results.

Whatever you decide here are a couple tips: Make sure the surface is properly prepared, and spend a few extra dollars for the best quality exterior paint. Properly-applied top quality acrylic latex paint can last up to ten years or more — so it will be a long time before you have to make this decision again.

In accordance with the 2012 IRC and 2012 IBC, ice barrier has been required and fully enforced for all new construction and roof replacement/ re-roof’s, commercial and residential, as of May 1st, 2015.

The ice barrier shall extend from the lowest edges of all roof surfaces to a point at least 24 inches inside the exterior wall line.

Building permits are required for roofing, siding, and windows. Roof inspections are required for new and replacement roofs/re-roof’s, and should be requested after ice barrier installation, and then a “mid-roof inspection,” i.e. after 8 or 10 courses of shingles have been applied, and all flashing is in place. Then a final inspection of the roof system after the job is complete.

Siding and/or window inspections should be requested to verify window and flashing installation is in accordance with building code and manufacturer’s specifications. ALL inspections should be done prior to covering any work.

Handouts and misc. information are available from the city of billings’ web site @ “ci.billings.mt.us” under “SERVICES” or “DOING BUSINESS” - “Building” - “Downloadable Forms.”

September 2019

17

POWER

OUTAGE SAFETY

A short-term loss of power can be a nuisance, but extended power outages can cause damage and may even be dangerous.

18

September 2019

(Metro Services) Accidents and storms can disrupt the electricity that powers everything in homes and businesses.

A short-term loss of power can be a nuisance, but extended power outages can cause damage and may even be dangerous.

Widespread power outages are often anticipated during or after severe storms, which can disable entire power grids.

Because damaged power lines and infrastructure must be carefully assessed after severe storms, it may take anywhere from hours to several days before power is fully restored.

The Food and Drug Administration says that food spoilage is one of the hazards of long-term power outages. If a storm is imminent, you can be proactive by freezing the contents of the refrigerator when possible so that items can stay at safe temperatures longer, advises the FDA. Food can remain safe for up to two hours at refrigerator temperature before it starts to spoil. Grouping food together in the freezer also can help it stay colder longer. Having extra ice on hand or freezing containers of water also can provide a chilling effect, as well as serve as a water supply if faucet water is unavailable — which can be a concern for those with well-pumped water.

Your barbecue can turn out to be your best friends during power outages. Many stoves, even gas ones, will not light because of electric ignitions. A gas camping stove or barbecue can serve as the primary place to cook food until power is restored. Always have a secondary propane tank on hand.

Keep plenty of bottled water on hand, especially if your water supply is well-fed and requires an electric pump to activate flow.

Stock up on blankets and warm clothing. Power outages during the winter can be especially challenging because of the lack of heat in a home. Family members can huddle together in small rooms to conserve heat. People with woodburning stoves can use them to keep warm. Fireplaces tend to be more show than ambient heat providers, but they can still serve as a heat source in a pinch.

If you have a generator, run it safely. The Consumer Product Safety Commission says generators should be operated as far away from the house as possible to avoid deadly carbon monoxide fumes. Also, use appropriately-gauged, outdoorrated extension cords to power up generators.

It is also important to stay put and avoid the road after a storm that causes a power outage. Wires may be down, traffic lights may not work and dangerous debris may be littering the roads. Hunkering down is the best approach until power is restored.

Storm Recovery Guide

We are LOCAL.

Call to schedule your We were here the day the hail appointment with a hit and will be for a long time! local contractor today.

We are locally oWned, licensed, bonded & insured serving billings for the past 23 years. (and Will be for a Whole lot more!!)

Roofing ~ Siding ~ Gutters ~ Windows

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to give you the BEST possible YOur HOme‌ Our reput reputatiOn. service, product, & price.

CALL FOR A FREE INSPECTION & ESTIMATE Mitch Donahue Owner • 406-248-5428

Storm Recovery Guide

September 2019

19

Get your home

WINTER READY

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Trim tree branches that could potentially fall on your home.

By KIMBERLY WELZENBACH CEO, Home Builders Association of Billings Despite the weatherman’s predictions, you never know for sure what the coming winter will have in store. Some winters are mild, others are severe, and many are somewhere in between. No matter what, you want your home to be prepared for

whatever Mother Nature brings.

Winterizing your home is one of the most important duties of homeownership. Neglecting to do so can not only lead to more costly utilities and potentially significant repair bills, it can make your home less comfortable for you and your family. Here are some tips from the Department of Homeland Services’ Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)

• Full Construction Repair • Locally Owned and Operated • Call for Free Estimates Lisensed & Insured Email: zbesel1@gmail.com

406.794.1917 20

SEPTEMBER 2019

to help extend the life of your home and keep your family safe during the cold winter months.  Insulate walls and attics, caulk and weather-strip doors and windows, and install storm windows. An economical alternative to storm windows is to cover them with plastic on the inside.  Clear debris from rain gutters so that they don’t fill with water that could freeze, adding weight that could damage the fascia board and cause leaks.  Trim tree branches that could potentially fall on your home during a storm.

Hiring a professional is strongly advised, especially if any branches are near power lines.  Have your heating equipment and chimney professionally cleaned and inspected every year. And ensure all your fuel-burning equipment is vented to the outside and that those vent openings are clear of debris and snow.  Insulate pipes with foam wrap or newspaper to help prevent freezing. Be sure you and any other adults in the home know how to shut off the main water valve in case your pipes do freeze and burst.

During the winter, it’s not uncommon for some people to rely on additional or alternate heating sources. With some devises – especially those not intended to be used inside the home – there is an increased risk of fire, electric shock or carbon monoxide poisoning if the necessary safety precautions are not taken. As general guidelines:  Keep fire extinguishers throughout the home, and teach all family members how to use them.  Never use a generator, grill, camp stove or other gasoline, propane, natural gas or charcoal-burning device anywhere inside your home, including the garage.  Space heaters should only be placed on a level surface and away from heavy foot traffic when in use, especially if pets or small children are nearby. It’s best to have space heaters that automatically turn off when a room reaches the desired temperature or in the event it is tipped over.

To learn more about routine maintenance, energy efficiency, and safety measures to protect and properly care for your home, contact the HBA at 406-252-7533 or online at hbabillings.net.

Storm Recovery Guide

Light Up Your Home This Fall

By KIMBERLY WELZENBACH Home Builders Association of Billings

Task lighting illuminates a certain area to address the room’s specific function.

Jodie Johnson - stock.adobe.com

The days are slowly getting shorter and the lights in your home are gradually getting more use. Lighting is an afterthought for many home owners, but it can completely changes the look and feel of any room. The style of fixtures you choose, where you place them and the type of bulbs you use can all affect the mood and functionality of your home.

By applying a few simple concepts, you can light up your home in a way that is useful, stylish and efficient, all at once! Think of lighting in layers: 1. Ambient lighting creates a base layer to establish the tone of the whole room.

2. Task lighting illuminates a certain area to address the room’s specific function.

3. Accent lighting draws attention to the decorative features that you love most.

It's important to note that your insurance company will not raise your premiums for filing a hail damage claim. Hail Damage Is considered an act of nature and therefore a comprehensive claim.

The Hail Damage to your vehicle reduces its value and if left unrepaired it could cost you thousands of dollars when you decide to sell or trade it in.

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Ambient Lighting

For an inconspicuous, minimalist approach to ambient light, consider recessed ceiling lights. The number of lights, their direction and a dimmer switch make it easy to customize the amount and intensity of light.

Pendant lighting comes in many different shapes and sizes and is a great way to create ambient light with fixtures that make a statement. You can suspend multiple light fixtures from the ceiling at varying heights, which adds dimension and visual interest to the room.

Task Lighting

In a living area, this lighting layer might include a table lamp as a focal point to establish an inviting conversation area. A floor lamp next to a comfy chair is just the thing for curling up with a magazine or book.

One of the hottest lighting trends uses long-lasting, energy-efficient LED light strips to softly illuminate

rooms from hidden sources. By placing an LED light strip under each overhead cabinet in your kitchen, you can brighten up the countertops where you chop vegetables or make a sandwich.

Accent Lighting

Use accent lighting to draw focus to details in a room. Try placing simple, uncomplicated wall sconces around your favorite piece of wall art and watch as it suddenly becomes a brilliant focal point. To highlight wall textures or architectural details you love, consider more atypical sconces in interesting shapes that can both show off the elements of your home and stand alone as eye-catching pieces.

By taking these lighting tips, layering them together and infusing them with your own special style, you can completely transform your space and fully accomplish your unique vision for your home. For more information and tips, visit HBABillings.net.

1-877-920-DENT 3368

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HAIL DAMAGE? September 2019

21

Five reasons women should work in construction

By KIMBERLY WELZENBACH CEO, Home Builders Association of Billings

The residential construction industry provides a rewarding career path for women. Builders and remodelers in Montana are seeking skilled artisans and professionals, including carpenters, architects, engineers, plumbers, electricians and painters. With women making up about half of the workforce in the U.S., here are some reasons why women should consider pursuing a fulfilling career in the trades.

Competitive Salary. A pay gap exists between men and women across most industries. On average, women in the United States earn 80 cents for every dollar a man earns. However, the gap is much smaller in the construction trades. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, women in the construction industry earn 97 cents for every dollar a man earns.

Job Opportunities. Unfilled jobs in the construction sector reached a postrecession high earlier this year. A National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) survey found shortages of labor in various types of construction jobs including

OL-20-38301 When what’s under your roof really matters

framers, carpenters, plumbers, electricians and bricklayers. The residential construction industry is one of the few sectors where demand for new workers has risen.

Scholarships. Funding is available for students who are interested in or currently pursuing opportunities in residential construction. The National Housing Endowment offers several student scholarships and programs and the American Council for Construction Education has resources available for students interested in teaching opportunities in the field.

Network of Experts. There is a growing community of women in construction who are willing to mentor and share insights with women entering the field.

NAHB has a strong network of women in construction through its Professional Women in Building Council in Montana. The National Center for Women’s Equity in Apprenticeship and Employment, a consortium of groups representing tradeswomen’s organizations around the country, also offers opportunities for women in the construction industry.

A Sense of Accomplishment. Working in the trades brings a sense of satisfaction for completing high-quality work

that contributes to home building and ultimately helping to fulfill the American Dream. Darylene Dennon the first tradeswoman to chair the NAHB Professional Women in Building Council (PWB) highlighted the benefits of being a woman in the trades: “I was raised to think that if

you do a good job, people will appreciate it. And always learn a trade. You can do a trade anywhere. When I was in the field, I didn’t think of myself as unequal.”

To learn more about job opportunities in Montana, contact the HBA at 406-2527533.

Office 633-3273

Theron Cook 200-8578 Jason Clelland 272-5335 like us on facebook!

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September 2019

Storm Recovery Guide

Emergency preparedness tips for seniors Metro Services Natural disasters can strike at any time, and when they do, the damage is often considerable. According to the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction, between 2005 and 2014 natural disasters caused $1.4 trillion in damage across the globe, affecting 1.7 billion people along the way.

Various preventive measures can protect people and their homes from the potentially devastating impact of natural disasters.

One way to prevent tragedy related to natural disasters is to develop an emergency preparedness plan before the next storm strikes. That’s important for everyone, but especially so for seniors, many of whom live with mobility issues that can compromise their ability to escape the eye of oncoming storms.

In recognition of the potential problems seniors face when natural disasters strike, the American Red Cross offers the following tips to seniors and their families so aging men and women can make it through such situations safe and

sound.

Make arrangements to contact loved ones. Prior to an emergency, seniors and their support network should make arrangements to make immediate contact once a disaster strikes. Determine who will make initial contact and how that contact will be made (i.e., via phone, text message, social media, etc.), as well as who will be responsible for providing assistance if necessary. Such a plan lets everyone within the support network know their precise responsibilities, which limits confusion in the sometimes hectic hours and days after disaster strikes.

Exchange keys. Make sure everyone in the support network has keys to seniors’ homes. In so doing, support networks are increasing the chances that someone will be able to reach potentially vulnerable seniors if the primary contacts are incapable of doing so.

Let others know where emergency supplies are kept. Everyone should have emergency supplies in their homes. Seniors should not take it for granted that such supplies can be easily found if they

become incapacitated during a storm.

Make sure such information can be easily accessed during a storm by emailing it to your support network and/or posting the information in a convenient location in your home, such as on the refrigerator.

Share your evacuation plans.

In the wake of recent disasters, many communities that did not previously feel vulnerable to natural disasters have devised evacuation plans for residents.

Seniors should share these plans with their support networks. Doing so makes it easier for relatives to find you if you must evacuate your home before help arrives.

Share important medical information. Seniors should share medical information, such as healthcare providers and a list of the medications they’re taking. This can make things easier for emergency responders to successfully treat people who become incapacitated during storms.

Emergency preparedness strategies save lives. More information about how seniors can prepare for emergencies is available at www.redcross.org.

Hail, Wind, or Storm Damage?

Contact our team for estimates & reliable contractors BRIDGER STEEL BILLINGS | 406.656.9655 Storm Recovery Guide

September 2019

23

Prepare for the financial impact of natural disasters The fury of Mother Nature’s wrath is displayed in vivid color during stormy times of year, including hurricane season. And it seems no area of the planet is safe from such furor. In September 2018, Hurricane Florence battered the southeastern coast of the United States while Typhoon Mangkhut hit Hong Kong. Just a few months earlier, California saw devastating wild fires, and in August torrential rain flooded many areas of Taiwan.

After the flood waters recede and the rain or smoke has passed, people affected by storms must face the financial ramifications.

Whether storms touch down nearby or overseas, the globalized economy means the financial fallout from natural disasters can be felt near and wide.

The National Centers for Environmental Information estimates that hurricanes cost an average of $21.8 billion per event in damages for the United States. Since 1980, when data started to be collected, NCEI indicates hurricanes (tropi-

cal cyclones), drought, flooding, wildfires, freezes, and winter storms tend to be the most costly events.

It’s easy to underestimate the scope of the financial burdens caused by natural disasters. Here are a few ways to protect one’s financial interests in advance of

natural disasters.

Experts at Property Casualty Insurers Association of America advise consumers to review and update their insurance policies regularly. Many homeowners are under-insured for natural disasters, particularly for flooding or earthquakes, which are not in-

cluded in most policies.

Adjust insurance shortfalls based on what insurers provide and the type of weather that tends to affect the area in which you live.

Policies should reimburse for hotel rooms or meals out if a home is uninhabitable after a disaster. In a Consumer Reports

survey of people who experienced property damage after a hurricane, 5 percent said they had to stay elsewhere, while 42 percent needed to relocate temporarily after damages from wildfires.

Remove valuables and store them in a bank safety deposit box or another location that’s outside the path of the storm. Theft and vandalism can occur after storms.

Have a backup employment plan and savings strategy if storms come through regularly. It is not uncommon for local businesses to shut down for some time to recover. This can mean temporary or permanent loss of employment.

Recognize your portfolio may suffer as commodity prices and stocks take a hit if regions are decimated by natural disasters.

Think ahead in regard to how your investments may be affected and make changes accordingly to mitigate the financial damage.

Storms cause structural and economic damage when they roll through. Be prepared to protect your financial interests.

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September 2019

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HBA MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY 4 Seasons Real Estate (406) 670-9799 406 Window Co. (406) 656-9091 41 Realty Group (406) 860-2322 5 Star Pool & Spa (406) 647-8850 A & H Turf & Specialties (406) 245-8466 A-1 Drilling (406) 628-6364 ABC Supply Co. Inc. (406) 245-2270 Accessible Home Solutions (406) 672-8105 Action Electric (406) 245-9551 Advanced Counter Technology (406) 248-7112 Albaugh Construction (406) 860-8769 All Kinds of Blinds & Window Film (406) 839-8055 Alpha Omega Disaster Restoration (406) 628-0178 Alpha Overhead Door, Inc. (406) 652-5555 Altana Federal Credit Union (406) 651-2315 American Glass, Inc. (406) 652-3020 American Water Technologies (406) 252-4161 Arrowhead Marketing, LLC (406) 969-3150 Artistic Iron (406) 656-7017 Ashley Furniture Homestore Billings (406) 259-5900

B-Fit for Life Fitness Equipment (406) 245-0445 Bailey Garage Doors, Inc. (406) 656-2905 Ban Construction Corp. (406) 850-2138 Beartooth Bank (406) 294-6510 Beartooth Holding & Construction (406) 839-7661 Benchmark Window & Door (406) 969-1491 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Floberg Real Estate (406) 855-0008 Beyond the Box, Inc. (406) 245-6981 Big Sky Collision (406) 259-6328 Big Sky Custom Builders (406) 850-1828 Big Sky Exterior Designs (406) 259-7020 Big Sky Spas (406) 839-1446 Billings Alarm Co, Inc. (406) 245-7219 Billings Association of Realtors (406) 248-7145 Billings Best Blinds (406) 698-8534 Billings Best Builders (406) 208-4146 Billings Career Center (406) 281-5343 Billings Chamber of Commerce/CVB (406) 245-4111 Billings Construction Supply (406) 248-8355

Billings Federal Credit Union (406) 248-1127 Billings Gazette Communications (406) 657-1340 Billings Hardware (406) 969-3622 Billings Insulation Service, Inc. (406) 256-1956 Billings Marble & Granite (406) 248-6884 Billings Nursery & Landscape (406) 656-2410 Billings Overhead Door Co. (406) 248-7785 Bloedorn Lumber Co. (406) 259-4534 Bluewater Design (406) 697-2173 Bob Pentecost Construction, Inc. (406) 656-8658 Bobcat of Big Sky, Inc. (406) 252-0822 Boise Cascade (406) 652-3250 Bonini Construction (406) 651-4585 Border States Electric (406) 238-1318 Boyer Land, LLC. (406) 698-5455 Branding Iron Construction, LLC (406) 850-8877 Bridger Steel Inc. (406) 656-9655 Brighten Inc. Electrical Services (406) 670-0505 Brown Builders (406) 656-0772

September 2 - November 22

Gain Comfort and Save Money

Continued on next page

Perfect 10 Roofing/ Sheet Metal 406-489-2526 224 South 24th Street Billings, MT 59101

Rebate Offer Lennox rebate up to $1,600 AND 0% interest for 60 months on select system purchases.

Brownson Construction Inc. (406) 839-9066 Budget Blinds (406) 248-9968 Builders FirstSource (406) 252-9395 Buscher Development, Inc. (406) 698-1488 C & B Operations, LLC (406) 248-7787 C’s Exterior Design (406) 545-5499 CC Insulation & Urethane (406) 245-3636 CDW Construction (406) 672-1448 CM Cleaning LLC (406) 690-4584 CMG Financial (406) 570-1577 COMTECH Audio Theater Security (406) 373-8395 Cabinet Center (406) 656-9300 Cabinet Works/Stone Wild Quartz & Granite (406) 655-8955 Calder Creek Cabinetry (406) 325-0008 Cameron Ashley Building Products (406) 656-7710 Capp Construction (406) 656-8979 Carpet One (406) 656-9300 Carrie Klein Designs (406) 860-9999 Century 21 Hometown Brokers, Inc. (406) 294-2121

Sheet Metal fabrication foR Roofing ConTRaCToRS • • • • •

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CoMMeRCial Roofing • • • • 26

September 2019

Flat roofs/Single Ply Membranes Manufacturers 20-30 Year Warranty Emergency Repairs/Full Re-roofs Maintenance Programs for Long Term Solutions Storm Recovery Guide

HBA MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY Continued from previous page

Chicago Title (406) 238-9999 Circle T Construction (406) 670-4924 City of Billings Building Division (406) 657-8273 City of Billings Engineering Division (406) 657-3095 CityService Valcon (406) 252-4661 Clark Marten Photography (406) 256-5555 Classic Design Homes (406) 294-2218 Coldwell Banker The Brokers (406) 652-6100 Comfort Heating & Air Conditioning, LLC (406) 656-5157 Construction Solutions Inc. (406) 672-8771 Cooper Creative Advertising & Design (406) 655-0151 Cotter’s Sewer, Septic & Portable Toilets (406) 628-5989 Cougar Construction (406) 861-3753 Cowles Montana Media Co. (406) 656-8000 Craigo Construction (406) 839-9078 Creative Vinyl Fencing, Inc. (406) 259-5200 Culligan Water (406) 628-6059 D’s Insulation (406) 252-6688 DB Carpentry (406) 208-4760 DT Excavation (406) 591-8139 DW Hill Flooring (406) 861-9658 Daniel Clevidence Agency, Farmers Insurance (406) 294-9111 Darin Zanto Builders (406) 390-3354 David Cunningham Const. (406) 671-7488 Davidson Home Furnishings & Design (406) 656-9540 Denny Menholt Chevrolet (406) 896-3000 Design Builders (406) 698-5454 Duke’s Concrete Construction (406) 656-6791 Dustin Davison Construction (406) 697-3808 EBC Trusses (406) 259-1814 EEC Eggart Engineering and Construction (406) 839-9151 EEC Platinum Property Brokers (406) 839-9151 ERA American Real Estate (406) 259-3977 Econo Glass Company, Inc. (406) 245-2999 Econo Print (406) 252-7191 Emineth Custom Homes Inc. (406) 855-8109 Ernie Szillat Construction (406) 259-5200 Ethan Allen (406) 254-2244 Evergreen Paint, Inc. (406) 652-2305 Exterior Design Solutions (406) 272-7416 FKF Concrete (406) 245-3110 Fabricators Unlimited (406) 245-6770

Storm Recovery Guide

Felton Assoc. Inc (406) 728-9100 Ferguson Enterprises (406) 252-4442 Fireplace Center, Inc. (406) 259-9690 First American Title (406) 248-7877 First Federal Bank & Trust (406) 272-1229 First Interstate Bank (406) 255-5101 First Montana Title Co. (406) 248-3000 Fisher Sand & Gravel Company (406) 657-9603 Fleury Concrete, Inc. (406) 252-6479 Floors By Design (406) 855-0464 Frame and Furniture, LLC (406) 579-0101 Fred’s Appliance Inc. (406) 894-2310 Freyenhagen Construction (406) 652-6170 Frontier Fence Co. (406) 259-6511 Full Moon Enterprises (406) 206-4808 GPS Electric (406) 581-3536 GTS Interior Supply (406) 237-0480 Gayvert Construction (406) 534-1320 General Shale Brick (406) 259-9222 Grand Lumber (406) 656-3588 Green Realty, LLC (406) 839-9141 Guild Mortgage (406) 252-2600 HD Building Inc. (406) 855-2373 HUB International (406) 652-9151 Habitat For Humanity/Re-Store (406) 652-0960 Halton Homes (406) 591-4123 Hanser Construction Company (406) 671-7301 Harper Masonry, Inc. (406) 248-3003 Helgeson Construction (406) 969-1332 Hill Builders (406) 690-0569 Home Theaters and More, Inc (406) 252-4928 Hometown Values Savings Magazine (406) 591-5000 IMPACT Drafting & Design, Inc. (406) 259-2110 Image Builders (406) 861-5803 Industrial Systems (406) 252-6671 Infinity Homes LLC (406) 591-0221 JD Construction (406) 656-4469 JMC Construction (406) 839-8100 Jares Fence, Inc. (406) 652-1924 Jeff Junkert Construction (406) 652-4873 Jeff Kreitzberg Homes, LLC (406) 698-1105 Johnstone Supply Co. (406) 252-1207 Juro’s Medical (406) 869-0123 K2 Spas & Sports (406) 254-0102 KE Construction, LLC (406) 855-8004 KLJ (406) 247-2907 Kenco Security & Technology (406) 245-4946 Kings Mountain Builders (406) 702-4401 Kirkness Roofing Co. (406) 256-1798

Kitchens Plus, Inc. (406) 652-5772 Knife River-Billings (406) 651-2483 Kosmann Inc. (406) 252-7434 L & L Construction, LLC (406) 869-2017 LC Custom Homes (406) 861-9149 Langlas & Associates (406) 656-0629 Lansing Building Products (406) 256-3878 Laughlin Construction, Inc. (406) 259-6100 Leavitt Great West Insurance Services (406) 252-4104 Leisure in Montana (406) 652-6500 Lewistown Rental LLC (406) 538-9033 Lines & Designs, Inc. (406) 698-3484 Lowe’s Home Improvement (406) 655-9317 Lynnrich Inc. (406) 252-2020 M.R. Concrete (406) 896-1488 MHS Construction Inc. (406) 534-0018 MJ Construction, Inc. (406) 698-6828 MJH Construction (406) 860-7505 Mac Leffler Construction (406) 855-5328 MacArthur Company (406) 652-8989 Magic City Granite (406) 252-1106 Magic City Real Estate & Business Consulting (406) 850-9858 Majestic Homes (406) 248-1412 Mann Mortgage (406) 294-6771 Matt the Painter (406) 697-5135 McCall Homes (406) 651-5354 McFadden Construction (406) 652-5496 Merenz Insurance Agency (406) 294-9114 Meyerco Sprinklers (406) 652-3929 Minot Builder Supply (406) 652-3610 Montana Contractors Association (406) 442-4162 Montana Dakota Utilities Co. (406) 896-4241 Montana Flooring Liquidators (406) 294-2955 Montana Glass & Shower Door (406) 690-6467 Montana Hot Spring Spas (406) 652-7727 Montana Real Estate Brokers (406) 869-2000 Moser Floors & More (406) 894-2370 Motto Mortgage of Billings (406) 206-6464 Mountain Electric of Montana (406) 245-8658 Mountain Supply Co. (406) 259-2909 Myers Custom Homes, Inc. (406) 259-1229 Mystic Lumber (406) 694-4004 N.C.I. Northwest Custom Improvements (406) 670-2781 Nathan Satran Photography (406) 351-3546 Newman Restoration & Cleaning (406) 850-1219

Newman Restoration & Cleaning/NBQH (406) 672-2819 North Acre Real Estate (406) 860-2931 NorthWestern Energy (406) 655-2523 Northwest Floors (406) 651-8080 Northwest Glass, Inc. (406) 252-7196 Northwest Pipe Fittings / The Water Closet (406) 252-0142 Oakland Built Homes, Inc. (406) 248-3641 Opportunity Bank (406) 256-1891 Outdoor Expressions, Inc. (406) 655-3598 Overhead Door Co of S Mt (406) 259-8807 Pacific Supply (406) 254-8876 Paramount Log Homes (406) 373-5811 PayneWest Insurance (406) 238-1939 Pella Windows & Doors, Inc. (406) 656-1516 Performance Engineering (406) 384-0080 Picard Development, Inc. (406) 208-9440 Pierce Flooring & Cabinet Design Center (406) 652-4666 Pine Rock Subdivision/VTR Properties (406) 698-7764 Point Scape, Inc. (406) 860-9017 Precision Plumbing & Heating (406) 655-9240 Pride Industries (406) 655-1200 ProSource Wholesale Floorcoverings |(406) 652-9406 Production Consulting, LLC (406) 860-8741 Purple Snow Promotional (406) 671-6968 Pyramid Cabinet Shop (406) 876-1521 R & L Painting & Remodeling (406) 855-5897 R & S Supply (406) 252-1626 R & T Services, Inc. (406) 655-9700 RDO Equipment Co. (406) 259-5536 REMAX of Billings (406) 896-2200 RJ Mac Homes (406) 860-4586 Rec Room (406) 670-4325 Rehberg Ranch Marketing, Inc. (406) 656-6628 Renewal by Andersen of MT (406) 259-3944 Republic Services (406) 548-4660 Retractable Screens (406) 209-8284 Reynolds Window and Door (406) 259-5581 Rich’s Modern Flooring (406) 248-3656 Rimrock Builders Inc. (406) 855-3497 Rimrock Cabinet Co. (406) 651-8109 Rimrock Lighting (406) 652-3574 Rocky Mountain Exterior Design & Roofing (406) 656-6173 Rocky Mountain Hard Rock Flooring (406) 652-6701 Rocky Mountain Seamless Raingutters (406) 252-3419 Continued on Page 30

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HBA MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY Continued from Page 27

Rollinger Companies, Inc. (406) 860-9786 Roof Depot (406) 652-1558 Sanderson Stewart (406) 869-3342 Scheels (406) 656-9220 Selby’s (406) 652-4414 Shawn Nelson Construction (406) 860-4643 Sherwin Williams (406) 655-9801 Simply Family Magazine (406) 671-5615 Smith & Company Construction and Design LLC (406) 860-4505 Smooth Finish Inc. (406) 850-3512 Soft Touch Designs, Inc. (406) 656-3613 Specialized Construction, Inc. (406) 256-8844 Sprague Construction Roofing, LLC (406) 534-1222 Spring Creek Landscape Co. (406) 652-5337 Stewart Title (406) 656-7200 Stockland Properties, Inc. (406) 591-4540 Stockman Bank (406) 655-2700 Strecker Electric Inc. (406) 839-6976 Streeter Bros Insurance, Inc.

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September 2019

(406) 252-0551 Superior Concrete (406) 698-0015 Syverson Stone & Tile (406) 652-3354 TC Custom Building, LLC. (307) 250-0415 Tel Net Systems (406) 839-9975 Terrell’s Office Machines, Inc. (406) 252-0055 Territorial Landworks (406) 248-9000 The Blind Guy (406) 655-1611 The Countertoppers (406) 259-9433 The Masonry Center (406) 254-6696 The World Famous Carpet Barn (406) 656-2824 Thomae Lumber & Truss (406) 256-0740 Thomas Printing - Billings (406) 248-1000 Thompson Homes (406) 850-9765 Thompson Pools and Spas (406) 656-8511 Timber Carpentry (406) 860-7436 Timberline Creations (406) 969-1739 Time Square Furniture & Mattress (406) 294-5266 Timeless Construction & Design (406) 860-7165 Titan Machinery (406) 259-5500

Townsquare Media (406) 869-3661 Tractor & Equipment (406) 245-4426 Trailhead Builders of Montana LLC (406) 294-5355 Trails West (406) 702-1766 Tri-State Truck & Equipment (406) 245-3188 True North Homes, LLC (406) 591-7145 TrussLox LLC (406) 601-3681 Tvetene Turf (406) 652-8485 Ty Nelson Design and Remodel (406) 534-8360 US Bank (406) 655-1699 Universal Awards/Tidbits (406) 245-6312 Universal Lending Home Loans (406) 294-2660 Urapeein Porta Pots (406) 252-3040 Ventling Building & Development, Inc. (406) 628-6849 Vinton Construction, Inc. (406) 248-1984 WWC Engineering (406) 894-2210 Wallis Mechanical (406) 591-4512 Wegner Homes (406) 850-9842 Wells Built Homes (406) 794-6465

Wells Built Homes, Inc. (406) 656-1301 Western Security Bank (406) 371-8337 White Heating & Air Conditioning (406) 248-2162 Wilson Cabinetry (406) 652-4671 Win-Dor Industries, Inc. (406) 248-2051 Wolf Construction (406) 256-3561 Yellowstone Bank (406) 869-3611 Yellowstone Basin Construction (406) 671-2287 Yellowstone County (406) 256-2701 Yellowstone Fabrication LLC (406) 697-7940 Yellowstone Polaris & Recreation (406) 259-7777 Yellowstone Valley Electric Co-op, Inc. (406) 348-3411 Yellowstone Valley Real Estate (406) 534-2860 Yellowstone Valley Rock Supply/Huppert Bros. Construction, Inc. (406) 652-2688 Zach Besel Construction, LLC. (406) 794-1917 Zentz Lumber Co. (406) 252-4810 Zuhaus Construction (406) 606-0205

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