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Home improvement is easily one of the best ways to add value to the home. It can, however, drain your financial resources unless you carefully consider and plan out which parts of your home to repair, renovate, or replace. In this blog series, we take a look at three of the biggest home improvement projects you should consider investing in: siding replacement, window replacement, and deck installation. Apart from the basics, we also give you some tips on how to make the most out of these improvements.
PART 1: SIDING REPLACEMENT IN A NUTSHELL
Other than the roof, your home’s siding one of the most vulnerable parts of your home. Over time, various external factors can damage the siding, which can ruin both its looks and its ability to function. This is why you need to have your siding replaced as soon as you see the following signs:
Bubbling or blistering - Siding that’s no longer resistant to water will develop bubbles or blisters on the surface, a sign that water has managed to penetrate the outermost layer or coating. Impact damage - Whether it’s caused by accident or by natural causes, impact damage – often caused by debris, tools, or even hail – can compromise your siding’s weather resistance. Rot and staining - Wood siding can be weakened by rot if there’s too much moisture, while metal siding can develop rust over time. Fading or peeling - Paint could eventually peel off, which isn’t just unattractive, but can also impact negatively on your siding’s waterresistant capabilities.
PART 1: SIDING REPLACEMENT IN A NUTSHELL
If you’re planning to replace siding, consider the following siding options: Fiber cement - Siding panels made of cement mixed with cellulose fibers, fiber cement is durable and designed to have a long lifespan. It’s easy to maintain, easy to paint, and immune to pest damage.
Cedar - Unlike most wood alternatives, cedar wood is a classic material that has natural water resistance, as well as anti-bacterial or anti-fungal properties. It’s also considered a very environment-friendly material, which is good if you’re “going green”. While siding replacement should ideally be done as soon as issues become apparent to avoid further deterioration, it’s best to have it replaced during summer. This is because contractors are less busy during that time of the year, plus weather conditions are less likely to delay installation. Furthermore, many siding companies tend to have sales during summer, which can help you save a lot. In the next part of this blog series, we’ll take a look at another key feature of your home’s exterior. Learn more about window replacement in part 2!
PART 2: WINDOW REPLACEMENT BASICS
Your windows have so many purposes that getting your old windows replaced is almost always considered a top priority. However, some people make the mistake of picking out windows that are not suitable for their homes, or going about the selection process the wrong way and ending up with disappointing results. Here are some tips to help you get things right.
CHOOSE THE RIGHT WINDOWS There are plenty of window replacement options to choose from, but you have to consider which one will suit your home’s specific needs. You can do this by considering these factors: • Frame size and material, which dictates appearance and durability • Type of glass, which plays a big part of energy efficiency • Design, which should go with the rest of your home’s appearance • Other features that can enhance your window’s performance such as insulated core frames or gas fills. If you’re not sure which options will suit your home, don’t just pick out something that “looks good enough”; get help from a window expert.
PART 2: WINDOW REPLACEMENT BASICS
HAVE PROFESSIONALS REPLACE YOUR WINDOWS To function properly, your replacement windows must be installed exactly as specified by the manufacturer. Following the manufacturer’s specifications to the letter requires experience AND the right training; so installing the windows on your own is bound to lead to subpar results.
That being said, you should hire only window professionals with the proper credentials. This not only ensures good results, but also saves you the time and money that you might otherwise have to spend to correct installation mistakes. Check if they are properly licensed, have the right brand training from window manufacturers, and are recognized by relevant government authorities. We’re almost done! In the last part of this ebook series, we’ll shed some light on how to get the best results out of adding a deck to your home.
PART 3: DECKING INSTALLATION DONE RIGHT
A new deck doesn’t just add value to your home; it also lets you have a place outside to relax and improve your home’s curb appeal... at least if done properly. Even the simplest deck can cost several thousands of dollars, so you need to get your deck installation done right to make it count and get your money’s worth.
SET GOALS What do you want your deck to look like? How many people should it be able to accommodate? Will it have other features such as an attached gazebo? Remember that installing or even remodeling an existing deck will take a lot of time and resources. Planning ahead and making sure your specific needs are well-thought-out before you start will ensure you avoid costly readjustments. This will ensure that what you end up with is in line with your expectations. MATCH IT WITH YOUR HOME The most stylish decks are the ones that completely complement the rest of a home’s architectural style. For example, sleek rails and glass panels look great in modern-themed homes, while detailed features like carved patterns can work for more traditional homes.
PART 3: DECKING INSTALLATION DONE RIGHT
REMEMBER THE WEATHER You’d get more out of your deck if it’s designed according to your local climate. Covered decks made of water-resistant materials and fixed roofs work well in areas that experience plenty of rain, while those in generally dry areas can have decks with no covers. If you want, you can even consider options that have retractable roofs for more versatility. DON’T SKIMP ON LABOR Deck installation involves plenty of factors such as building code requirements, manufacturer specifications, and even product warranties, not to mention that construction can be a very complex process that an inexperienced homeowner can mess up. Getting help from a professional means you can put the project in more experienced hands -- which means you’re bound to get better results.
Erin Isle Construction 11120 SW Industrial Way, Tualatin, OR 97062 (503) 512-6070 (503) 691-9096 erinislesiding.com