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Latest Sunroom and Three Season Room Projects

Mon, 19 Dec 2022 03:41:00 GMT

Check our latest projects below. We're looking forward to helping you with your sunroom/addition project!

7 Signs It`s Time To Replace Your Siding

Tue, 30 Nov 2021 03:11:00 GMT

Siding is one of the most visible parts of your home.

Siding is your home’s first line of defense against damaging weather and pests. It’s also one of the most visible parts of your house, so when it fails to do its job, it fails to look the part.

Replacing old siding can seem like a big undertaking, but fortunately many homeowners only have to do it once. That makes it even more important to do it right the first time, and to address the project before it can lead to other expensive repairs.

How do you know when to replace your siding? Here are seven signs that can help you recognize when it’s time.

EXCESSIVE MAINTENANCE

As siding wears out, the maintenance cycle shortens. Also, the tendency to skip maintenance and just “let it go” can cause damage to the integrity of the underlying wood structure. It may be worth it to simply replace and upgrade your siding now. The cost/benefit may be better in the long run and help free up time for other projects (or just to relax).

LOOSE OR MISSING SIDING

Siding that is falling off a house can no longer protect the underlying structure. A few of the primary concerns with loose or missing siding is that excessive moisture (such as rain or snow), as well as pests, can get underneath. Those factors have the potential to lead to a range of issues and potentially expensive repairs.

PEST DAMAGE

Woodpeckers, termites and other pests are more than just a nuisance – they can cause serious damage to your home. If you have frequent issues with pests, you may want to consider replacing your siding with a material that offers little appeal to critters, such as fiber cement siding.

COLOR FADING

Faded siding can be unsightly. You can judge if your home is standing out by comparing it to surrounding houses. While fading doesn’t mean you need to replace your siding as soon as possible, it might be a good idea to start considering your options. Educate yourself by exploring the different house siding options that are available for your home.

BUCKLED, CRACKED, SAGGING OR WARPED SIDING

Siding that is buckled, cracked, sagging or warped can damage your home’s curb appeal and may be a sign it’s not doing its job to protect your home. If there is damage only to small areas, you may be able to just replace those pieces of siding. But widespread damage may get worse, so if you notice it all around your house it may be time to get a consult for a full siding replacement.

ROT

Siding is exposed to Mother Nature all day, every day, for years. Weather, water and time can all lead to trouble, and rot may be a symptom. If you have wood siding that is soft or crumbling, that can be a sign of rot, which should be addressed sooner than later. You’ll definitely want to investigate the root cause to determine the extent of any damage. If the damage extends beyond your siding, a consultant can help you determine which materials may need replacement.

FINISH THAT’S BUBBLING OR BLISTERING

If your siding is blistering or bubbling, you may want to take steps to repair or refinish it before the damage spreads. If left unaddressed, this could lead to even more unsightly conditions and other issues. The long-term solution is to replace your siding with a more resilient material that has a durable finish, like fiber cement products with ColorPlus® Technology.

HOW LONG DOES SIDING LAST?

The length of time your siding will last depends on the type of material you currently have, the way it was installed and other factors, such as climate and degree of exposure to the elements. To keep your home in top condition, it’s a good idea to do an annual inspection by simply walking around your home while taking a very close look and noting anything that can be addressed with basic maintenance. It’s always better to address issues early rather than after they become major problems.

If it’s time to replace your siding, consider using a material that’s durable and long-lasting, such as James Hardie® fiber cement siding. You can explore the performance and durability of James Hardie products, and discover all of the design options and color choices for your project.

When you’re ready, the next step is to call us for a free estimate and to get help with your project.

Source: James Hardie

A Short Guide To Winter Maintenance of House Siding in Columbus, Ohio

Tue, 30 Nov 2021 03:01:00 GMT

Columbus is no stranger to constantly changing weather conditions. Every year, the city deals with tornadoes, severe thunderstorms, and blizzards. This year’s hodgepodge of weather conditions is no different from previous years with one notable exception: according to Randy Ludlow of the Columbus Dispatch, the wintry blast last December 6 was the snowiest on record so far.

After another mixed bag of wintry precipitation across central Ohio today, the coldest weather of the season could be waiting.

The Columbus area enjoyed sunshine yesterday that helped melt the mess from Friday’s wintry blast that left 5.1 inches of snow at Port Columbus, making it the snowiest Dec. 6 on record.

But the respite will last only one day. The National Weather Service issued a winter-weather advisory for much of Ohio from 6 a.m. today to 4 a.m. Monday.

One to 2 inches of snow could fall this morning before switching over to sleet and freezing rain this afternoon, leaving a possible deposit of one-tenth of an inch of ice.

With the coming of harsher winter conditions, locals who had their homes winterized ahead of time are sure to be reaping the benefits of their efforts. Home winterization does not mean making homes impenetrable to winter damage, but rather, reducing the chances of serious structural damage when winter strikes. Also, good winterization efforts for roof and house siding in Columbus, Ohio mean a consistently warm home for the rest of the winter.

Meanwhile, those who were unable to winterize their homes are likely to find damage in some of its components during the season, and one element that is particularly vulnerable is wood siding. Wood siding is prone to moisture penetration after severe snowstorms, which can then lead to cracking and rotting. The only way to prevent wood siding damage from worsening is through good maintenance and repair. However, when a wood siding has reached the end of its service life, homeowners can consider installing vinyl siding in Columbus, Ohio instead, as this type of siding is better at standing up to extreme weather conditions. Other smart siding choices include insulated siding and fiber cement siding.

Erratic winter conditions are expected in Columbus, Ohio this year, making house components vulnerable, and maintenance and repair work necessary. If new siding installation is required, homeowners will benefit greatly from relying on trustworthy siding installation specialists like those from Ohio Exteriors.

(Article Excerpt and Image from Weather alert: Get ready for run of snow, ice, cold, Dispatch.com, Published 8 December 2013)

Do you need to replace vinyl windows?

Fri, 22 Oct 2021 00:57:00 GMT

What to Consider When Replacing Vinyl Windows

If you’ve noticed higher energy bills than usual, drafts around your window frames, or moisture buildup between panes, it may be time to replace the vinyl windows that were most likely installed when your home was built. Replacing your windows can be a sizable investment, but it’s one of the smartest things you can do for your home. If you think it’s time for new windows, the following are a few things to keep in mind:

Benefits of Vinyl Replacement Windows

Vinyl windows are one of the most popular types of windows today. They blend beauty, performance and energy efficiency to ensure your home feels comfortable and looks good. Replacement vinyl windows are so durable and energy efficient, they can save you money in the long run, decreasing energy bills and increasing your home’s value.

Versatility

Vinyl windows are extremely versatile and can match the design and character of virtually every home style. They can gracefully enhance the architectural style of your home, whether it’s traditional, contemporary or somewhere in between. With different colors, styles and features, you can use vinyl windows to get the look you want. To maximize viewable glass of the new windows, be sure to seek a full-frame replacement installation.

Energy Efficiency & Water Management

Quality vinyl replacement windows, particularly those carrying an ENERGY STAR® label, are designed to prevent sun and heat from radiating into your home. Energy-efficient glass is specially formulated with insulating properties that provide superior energy savings. They retain heat inside the home during cold winter months and reduce solar heat gain in the summer. In addition to keeping heat and cold air out, replacement vinyl windows should prevent water intrusion. Full-frame replacement with a nailing flange integral to the window frame provides proper flashing and water management when installed properly.

Maintenance

Homeowners lead increasingly busy lifestyles, so regular window maintenance is far from the top of mind. Vinyl windows require virtually no maintenance as they won’t rot, peel, blister or swell. With quality craftsmanship, they’ll maintain their attractive appearance inside and out with minimal upkeep!

Vinyl windows are durable, beautiful and require little upkeep, making them a great choice for today’s busy lifestyle. If you’re ready to replace your windows, vinyl replacement windows are the way to go.

For your home window replacement in Columbus Ohio, call us at (614) 239-7663.

Source: MyHomeStyleDesigns

Preparing a Roof for Solar Panels

Mon, 23 Aug 2021 01:38:00 GMT

Roofs are the most common installation location for home solar power systems

Roof-mounted solar panels are a great way to harness the power of the sun and save on your home energy bills. A roof offers an ideal location for solar panels as it typically gets a great deal of sun exposure, which is good for maximizing your home solar energy production. Even on cloudy days, high-efficiency solar panels installed on your roof can generate power in low light as they capture direct and indirect sunlight.

Roof-mounted Solar Panels

When you start your solar project, one of the first questions a consultant will ask is about the age and condition of your roof. If your roof needs to be repaired or replaced, you’ll need to get that work done first before you can have solar panels installed.

Read on to discover why it’s important to address roof-related issues first before getting solar panels installed.

Why Roofs Are a Great Place for Solar Panels

Roofs are the most common installation location for home solar power systems – and for good reason. The more sun exposure panels get, the more solar energy they can produce to help replace power from the grid. An unobstructed roof with slopes toward the sun helps maximize sun exposure and energy production for your home. Roof-mounted solar panels can be installed on your home, as well as on various outbuildings, such as a barn, shed, garage or carport.

A roof on any of these residential structures will be evaluated on several factors to determine suitability for solar panels:

Type of roofing shingles (materials) – asphalt, metal, tile, etc.
Roof type (style or design) – gable, hip, gambrel, etc.
Roof slope and the direction it faces
Overall condition

What Type of Roofing Shingles (Materials) are Best for Solar Panels?

Solar panels can be installed on various types of roofing shingles (materials). Asphalt-shingled roofs are a good choice if they’re in good condition and have enough usable surface area.

What Roof Type (Style or Design) is Best for Solar Panels?

Solar panels can be installed on almost any roof style with a few exceptions. The roof on your home, garage, shed, or barn could all be potential candidates for roof-mounted solar panels. Whether it’s a gable, hip, or a combination roof, a solar installer can figure out the best way to mount panels.

Solar engineers and installers can split up solar arrays into multiple sections to follow the rooflines and work around roof components, such as skylights, box vents, or pipe boots.

What Roof Slope is Best for Solar Panels?

To maximize sun exposure, a residential roof-mounted solar system should be at an angle equal to the latitude of their install location, but this isn’t always possible.

A roof slope that angles between 15-40 degrees should suffice for most solar power systems. Individual solar panels can also be adjusted to an optimal angle that maximizes their sun exposure.

Your solar panel installers can help determine if your roof slope is suitable for solar panel installation.

What Roof Slope Orientation is Best for Solar Panels?

Another factor that has an impact on solar panel power production is the direction or orientation of the roof slope where the solar panels are installed.

In the Northern Hemisphere (all U.S. locations), the general guidance is for solar panels to face south because south-facing sides of roofs get the most sunlight during the day.

Is Your Roof Solar-Ready?

While almost any home can accommodate solar panel installations, there are some questions you should ask about your roof before you start a solar project.

Take care of your roof first so you don’t have to slow down, or press pause on your solar installation.

What is the Square Footage of Your Roof?

Roof size matters when it comes to solar. Your roof may need to meet a minimum requirement of usable surface area to have solar panels installed.

The minimum usable surface area allows solar panels to be correctly installed on your roof, helping you to meet your solar goals and comply with building codes. Most building codes require pathways of open roof area for access and ventilation to clear smoke, fumes, and heat in a fire. Your solar consultant will address these details during your project.

What type of roofing material do you have on your house?

Roofing materials that are strong and durable, such as asphalt roof shingles, make excellent surfaces for supporting solar panels.

Not all roof types qualify for solar panels. For example, flat roofs made of tar and gravel are not suitable for solar panel installation.

How old is your roof?

A general guideline is asphalt shingle roofs should be 10 years old or less and in good condition before beginning solar panel installation. If your roof is over 10 years old, then you may want to schedule a roof inspection to see if it’s still in good enough condition for solar panel installation. Repairing or replacing your roof before having solar panels installed can help you avoid the need to have the solar arrays removed and then reinstalled.

Is your roof in good condition?

During a roof inspection, a roofing contractor will check your roof and attic for potential signs of damage, such as leaks, as well as for proper ventilation. In addition to damaged shingles, other roofing components (such as underlayment, vents, or flashing) may also need to be replaced. It’s always best to repair or replace these items before solar installation begins.

Is your roof decking and structure in good condition?

The roof decking and overall structure should be in good condition before installing solar panels to avoid the need to remove and reinstall solar panels to fix a roof-related problem.

Next Steps to Reach Your Solar Goals

If you need to replace or repair your roof before getting solar panels installed, CALL US FOR AN ESTIMATE.

Once your roof is in good condition, you can explore the best solar panel options for your home knowing that your roof is ready. SunPower® can help you create a solar plan that’s best for your home based on its energy needs, location, roof size, and slope to help you reach your solar goals.

SOURCE: OWENS CORNING

When to Replace Your Roof

Sun, 22 Aug 2021 21:13:00 GMT

Your roof plays a critical role in helping to keep your home and everything in it safe from the elements. If you built your house, then you probably have a good record of the roof installation and a general idea of when the roof may need to be redone. However, if you bought your house, you might not know the exact history of the roof and when it should be replaced.

So, how will you know when it’s time to replace your roof?

1. Roof “Age Spots”

Roofs have ways of visibly showing their age. And, although older roofs may continue to keep the elements out, they may be more vulnerable to damage due to wear and tear over the years.

Signs of an aging roof can often be observed from ground level, and sometimes a convenient second-floor window offers a bird’s eye view of the shingles. It’s always best to leave any on-roof inspections to the professionals.

Here are seven indications that your roof may be past its prime:

Uneven shingles. Asphalt shingles are meant to lie flat with no edges to catch the wind or interfere with water runoff. Cupped shingles with concave centers, wavy surfaces, and ragged or curled shingle edges are all signs that a roof is past its prime.
Bald shingles. The granular coating on asphalt shingles helps to protect them from the elements, such as harsh ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun. Roof shingles that are losing or have lost their granules are more exposed to UV rays, potentially causing them to age faster and become brittle.
Cracked shingles. Over the years, UV ray exposure from the sun may cause roof shingles to “dry out” and crack on the surface.

Discoloration. The color of your roofing shingles may fade over the years due to UV degradation, another sign of an aging roof.
Dark streaks. While dark streaks on your roof may be more of an aesthetic problem, they’re an indication of algae growth on your roof. Lichen growth, which occurs with a combination of algae and fungus, can eventually damage shingles and their protective granules. A homeowner’s first step should be to have a professional clean and inspect their roof to check the condition of the shingles and see if a repair or reroof is necessary.
Moss. The roots of moss are much larger than those found in lichens. Too much moss on your roof can speed up the loss of granules. Moss also retains water, adding weight, and keeping your roof in constant contact with water. As with shingle discolorations, a roof inspection and cleaning can help determine the health of the shingles beneath the moss.
Time. While properly installed, high-quality asphalt shingles can provide two to three decades of protection, constant exposure to the elements eventually takes its toll, and they need to be replaced. According to InterNACHI’s Standard Estimated Life Expectancy Chart for Homes , the life expectancy for architectural asphalt roofing shingles is 30 years and 20 years for three-tab asphalt shingles.

2. Roof Storm Damage

The roof is one of your home’s first lines of defense against Mother Nature. Certain regions of the country are more associated with specific adverse weather events, like tornadoes or hurricanes. However, most locales experience occasional summer storms, which can produce damaging wind gusts and hail. Due to its large surface area and exposed location, the roof is especially vulnerable to storm damage.

Hailstorms

A sudden flurry of hailstones can cause immediate damage to shingles, flashing, and gutters. Visible signs of roof hail damage include loss of granules, divots, and cracks. Sometimes roofing shingles will split beneath their surface due to a hailstone’s impact, leaving your roof open to water infiltration.

Winds

Straight-line winds that proceed a typical storm front can cause a great deal of damage in a short amount of time. These winds travel in one direction, unlike rotating tornadic winds and can reach speeds over 100 miles per hour. The National Severe Storms Laboratory classifies winds over 50-60 miles per hour as damaging.
Shingles that are blown off can leave large areas of your roof completely unprotected from rain or snow. And shingles that remain in place but have been bent or curled beyond their limits may lose their waterproof seal. Wind-driven debris, such as tree branches, could crack or pull up shingles, and/or knock granules loose.
If you experience a significant hailstorm or other severe weather events, then you may want to schedule a roof inspection to check for both visible and hidden damage.

3. Leaking Water

Homeowners may put off signs of an aging roof and be unaware of storm damage, but water spots typically demand a quick reaction. If your roof has lost its ability to repel water due to storm damage or aging, then water damage to the roof deck, insulation, and drywall or mold growth can develop quickly.
Roofs are vulnerable to water in the winter, too. When snow thaws and refreezes over the eaves, it can create ice dams. Water that builds up on the roof’s surface can back up underneath the shingles, eventually finding even the tiniest of holes and making its way into your home.

How do you spot where the leaks are coming from?

Finding the source of water leaks can be tricky. Water always travels along the path of least resistance, so a small hole near the peak of the roof could show up as a water spot in the foyer ceiling. Your first move should be to inspect the attic after a heavy rainfall or while your roof is snow-covered.Pay special attention to areas around vents, chimneys and skylights.
Use a flashlight and look for dark patches on the wood, mold or deteriorated insulation.

Know When It’s Time to Contact a Roofing Contractor
Professional roofing contractors are experienced with different types of roof damage and signs of an aging roof. We know where to look (like under shingles and around flashings) and can safely traverse roofs of various slopes. We can also tell you if you need a roof repair or a complete roof replacement.

Schedule with us soon as possible if your roof is showing signs of aging, storm damage, or if you have signs of leaks or water damage in your home. It’s better to get the work done sooner than later to help prevent further deterioration and/or damage to your home.

Source: Owens Corning

Three Revealing Signs Your Roof Needs to Be Replaced

Syntetic VS. FeltT Roofing Underlayment

Tue, 17 Aug 2021 02:22:00 GMT

SYNTHETIC VS. FELT ROOFING UNDERLAYMENT PROS AND CONS

When most people think of roofs, they typically think of shingles or metal roofing. But what some may not know is there’s another layer of protection directly on top of the roof deck and under the roof covering that performs a critical role in protecting your home from moisture damage. It’s called roofing underlayment.

Find out more about this critical component to your roof’s structure.

What Is Roofing Underlayment?

Roofing underlayment is what lies between the shingles and the roof sheathing, or roof deck, which is typically either plywood or OSB. It’s installed directly on the roof deck and provides a secondary layer of protection from the elements, including rain, snow, and wind.

Types of Roofing Underlayment

There are two main types of roofing underlayment:

Felt
Synthetic

Each product has its pros and cons, and the type you choose may depend on your geographical area, roofing materials used, roof design, budget and what your roofing contractor may suggest.

Felt Roofing Underlayment

Felt roofing underlayment is one of the oldest types of roofing underlayment. It’s created by saturating paper or fiberglass mat with asphalt.

Felt roofing underlayment is typically available in two types: No.15 felt and No. 30 felt. Compared to No. 15 felt, No. 30 felt is typically thicker, stronger, and may be less prone to tearing or ripping off during installation or weather events.

Pros

The main advantage of using felt roofing underlayment is cost. Felt underlayment tends to cost less compared to synthetic underlayment, which is why it’s often the go-to for budget-conscious homeowners.

Cons

There are several disadvantages to using felt underlayment on a roof. One disadvantage of traditional felt roofing underlayment is it generally can’t be left exposed for more than a few hours. The material may dry out or leach oils in the heat. This would impact the felt’s ability to protect against moisture.

Other drawbacks of felt underlayment include :

Prone to tearing in high winds and during the strain of installation.
If exposed to moisture, the mat can absorb water and wrinkle the felt , making it harder for the shingles to lay flat. Therefore, shingles should be installed immediately after felt roofing underlayment is installed if possible to ensure optimal protection.
Felt underlayment also weighs more, which can make it harder for roofing contractors to drag rolls of it up a ladder and onto a roof.
It also has a slippery surface, which can sometimes make it more difficult to install.
The weight also leads to less material per roll. This means more potential seams instead of a single course with no laps.

Felt Roofing Underlayment and Warranties

If felt underlayment is installed it may also prevent you from being protected under the manufacturer’s warranty, which may require synthetic underlayment.

Synthetic Roofing Underlayment

For enhanced water-resistance and protection from the elements, many roofers are choosing to go the route of synthetic roofing underlayment. These products are usually made from long-lasting polymers, which provide added strength and longevity. This type of underlayment is typically moisture-resistant, and when it’s installed correctly, it offers better protection from the weather compared to felt.

Synthetic roofing underlayment materials are not standardized, so different manufacturers may make their products differently, and therefore may have different levels of performance. Be sure to do your research and talk with a trusted contractor who can help guide you in selecting the right roofing materials to protect your home.

Pros

There are four main advantages to installing synthetic roof underlayment rather than felt. Compared to felt, synthetic roofing underlayment is:

Tough
Fast to install
Safe
Repels water

Synthetic roof underlayment is extremely durable. It typically doesn’t tear and is suitable for extended UV and moisture exposure in some cases, which is especially helpful if there’s a bit of lead time before your roof covering is installed.

Synthetic underlayment also stands up to boot traffic, which is important when your roofing contractor is walking around on its surface as it’s being installed. At Owens Corning Roofing, we call this “use after abuse” — the product can still perform as designed even after the abuse it takes during installation.

Synthetic roofing underlayment also tends to be:

Lighter* – Up to four times lighter in some cases
Fast to install – Because there is more material per roll compared to felt (synthetic roofing underlayment comes in wider and longer rolls), it results in fewer trips up the ladder for your roofers, saving them time and perhaps helping the job move along faster. For instance, a typical 2700 square-foot home might require three rolls of synthetic underlayment compared to 14 rolls of No.30 felt to cover the same area.
Safe – Synthetic underlayment is also advantageous for worker safety — the surface of many synthetic roofing underlayments, including those offered by Owens Corning, features a variety of slip-resistant surfaces for enhanced walkability. It’s also usually well-marked with overlap guides and indicators of where fasteners should be placed, helping to improve consistency and accuracy during installation.
Moisture-resistant – Where felt products tend to absorb water, synthetic roofing underlayments are built to repel water. This is important for homeowners concerned about moisture infiltration, especially if they plan to leave the underlayment exposed for a prolonged period of time.

Because it’s made of plastic, synthetic underlayment is typically resistant to mold growth, a definite advantage over felt.

Cons

Many synthetics are competitively priced, but when compared to felt, the main drawback of synthetic roofing underlayment is the cost. The upfront investment in higher quality roofing materials, however, could save you money down the road. You can’t put a price on the peace of mind knowing that your roof is sufficiently protected from moisture.

The Right Underlayment for Your Roof

Whether you’re embarking on a reroofing project or new home construction, there are many factors to consider about the type of underlayment to use. Synthetic roofing underlayment has many advantages over felt and may be a worthwhile investment to protect your roof and home from the risks of water and moisture infiltration.

*9 (2 sq.) rolls of standard #30 felt compared to 2 (10 sq.) rolls of Owens Corning® Deck Defense® High-Performance Synthetic Underlayment. Individual product weights may vary.

Source: OWENS CORNING

8 Potential SIigns You Need a New Roof

Fri, 06 Aug 2021 01:43:00 GMT

DO YOU NEED A NEW ROOF?

Sometimes a roof can naturally reach the end of its useful life without experiencing a roof failure. It just looks old and worn, and you are doing preventive maintenance on your home.

If replacing an old roof is delayed, however, it could result in bigger problems down the road. So, watch for the warning signs to be sure to give yourself plenty of time to add the project to your to-do list.

8 Potential Signs That Your Roof May Need To Be Replaced:

Shingle edges are curled or shingle tabs are cupped.
Bald spots where granules are missing.
Cracked shingles.
Your roof is at least 20 years old; while many shingles today are produced for durability, many factors can accelerate the aging of shingles. For example, if your roof is not properly ventilated, it can negatively impact your shingles.
The roof just looks old and worn.
Neighbors are getting new roofs. Homes built around the same time period can be experiencing the same types of weather conditions can mean that your roof is nearing its useful life.
Dark streaks. Airborne algae cause dark streaks on roof decks. While this may not necessarily harm the roof shingles, it may not look good.
Moss can grow on roof surfaces that don’t get much sunlight, especially in cool, moist climates. Moss growth can be more than a cosmetic issue. Moss holds moisture against the roof surface and over time in freezing climates can cause damage to the granules on the top of the shingles. Moss can be brushed off but it won’t prevent it from growing again; take care not to damage the shingle surface. You may need to contact a professional roofing contractor.

For help with your re-roof project, rest assured you will be working with the best. As a Preferred Contractor with Owens Corning we take pride in our work and receive many referrals from our prior clients.

Source: Owens Corning

Dark Streaks on Your Roof?

Wed, 04 Aug 2021 01:07:00 GMT

WHY ARE THERE DARK STREAKS ON YOUR ROOF?

Algae Growth on Asphalt Shingles Algae growth may cause discoloration on roofs resulting in brown or black streaks on a rooftop.

Algae may be mistaken for soot, dirt, or tree droppings, most of which typically produce only localized discoloration.

Dark streaks, or roof discoloration caused by algae, happens in varying degrees across the U.S., especially in areas exposed to warm, humid conditions. It is most widespread in the eastern United States and is commonly found on roofs with northern exposure.

The primary species of algae that tends to collect and grow on roofs is called cyanobacteria Gloeocapsa magma algae, which is contained in and transported through the air.

Green algae (typically green in appearance) or moss sometimes found on roofs with northern exposure, overhangs or high moisture areas, is not the same species.

Can You Remove Dark Streaks, or Algae Discoloration, from an Asphalt Roof?

Algae discoloration can be difficult to remove, but may be lightened by spraying a diluted solution of chlorine bleach and water on the roof.

Disclaimer:When deciding to clean your roof we recommend you consult a licensed/certified roofing professional. If you decide to clean your roof yourself, please keep in mind that the roof will be slippery when wet and caution should be taken when performing this task. Wear appropriate fall protection when on the roof and proper PPE, such as slip-resistant shoes/boots and eye protection while cleaning the roof.

How to Lighten Dark Streaks, or Algae Discoloration, on an Asphalt Roof

Prior to applying the solution, all ground vegetation directly under the roof should be covered.
Solution should be a mixture of one gallon each of bleach and water (1:1).
This solution should be sprayed on the roof and left untouched for approximately 10 – 20 minutes.
Do not scrub or use high-pressure power washing equipment. This will loosen and remove granules, thereby shortening the life of the roof covering.
After approximately 10 – 20 minutes, the roof should be sprayed with water, taking care to thoroughly flush the roof and the greenery around the home (grass, bushes and shrubs).
When algae growth is extensive the cleaning process may need to be repeated. This technique is typically temporary, and the discoloration may recur.

How Does Algae Affect the Performance of Asphalt Shingles?

Owens Corning has not seen evidence that algae deposits affect the performance of asphalt shingles. Algae, or streaking, is more of an aesthetic problem and may impact the look or curb appeal of your home.

What Are Algae Resistant (AR) Shingles?

Asphalt shingles with algae-resistant mineral granules remain the most effective solution available for reducing cyanobacteria Gloeocapsa magma algae growth described above. These products incorporate metals, such as copper-lined mineral granules, to reduce algae growth.

Experts realized that metals, such as copper, have algae-inhibiting properties after noticing that algae staining was reduced or did not exist beneath metal vents or flashing on a roof.

Owens Corning offers a complete line of algae-resistant asphalt shingles* that feature StreakGuard® Protection, an algae-inhibiting technology to help reduce algae growth.

Pictured above: Owens Corning Roofing StreakGuard® algae-inhibiting technology
These products do not address green algae (typically green in appearance) or moss sometimes found on roofs with northern exposure, overhangs or high moisture areas.
This blog post is based on our Technical Bulletin, Algae Growth on Asphalt Shingles . *Only available in certain regions. Browse Owens Corning Roofing shingles available in your area

Source: Owens Corning

Insulated Vinyl Siding: How Is It Different From Regular Vinyl Siding?

Sat, 17 Jul 2021 19:31:00 GMT

How does insulated vinyl siding compare with traditional vinyl siding? Simply put, insulated vinyl siding is vinyl siding that has rigid foam insulation backing. While it can be more costly than traditional vinyl siding, the benefits may be worth the investment. Read on to learn more about the differences between insulated and traditional vinyl siding and the benefits of the added insulation.

Insulated Vs. Non-Insulated Vinyl Siding

Compared to traditional vinyl siding, insulated vinyl siding has a layer of contoured expanded polystyrene (EPS) insulation backing that is permanently adhered to the siding.

This additional layer of rigid insulation can help increase your home’s protection from harsh weather conditions, damage, pests and exterior noises while improving your home’s energy efficiency.

Energy Savings

Insulated vinyl siding helps to keep the heat inside in the winter and outside in the summer, reducing heating and cooling costs. Many homeowners know energy can be lost through openings such as windows and doors but often overlook their external walls. Even if your walls contain traditional insulation, your home may experience energy loss due to a process called “thermal bridging.”

Thermal bridging occurs when temperatures bypass the insulation in the walls through the studs, which are often left uninsulated, allowing energy to leak through exterior walls. Insulated vinyl siding provides an extra layer of insulation that covers these gaps, reducing the thermal break and creating a protective barrier, saving you energy and money.

Home Comfort

Insulated vinyl siding can help make your home more comfortable year-round. Adding a protective barrier around the home’s exterior helps to create a consistent temperature from room to room. Additionally, wrapping your home in insulated vinyl siding can significantly dampen the sounds of your neighborhood.

Durability

Insulated vinyl siding has an extra layer of strength over its uninsulated counterpart. The contoured foam insulation is more rigid against the wall, helping to protect the panels against damage from weather, dents, and pests.

Appearance

Your exterior walls play a large part in your home’s curb appeal. Vinyl siding offers a variety of styles in long-lasting, rich colors that won’t flake or peel. The addition of the contoured foam insulation provides extra support, allowing manufacturers to create modern styles with wider, flatter profiles. This unique combination of design and durability means insulated vinyl siding is a beautiful cladding option that will stand the test of time.

Low Maintenance

Vinyl siding is one of the lowest maintenance cladding products on the market, making insulated vinyl siding an ideal option for busy homeowners. Whereas other cladding options often require painting, staining, and caulking, vinyl siding only requires occasional cleaning with mild soap and a quick rinse with the garden hose.

If you’re ready for a siding upgrade, insulated vinyl siding can boost your curb appeal, increase your home comfort and help save energy costs in the long run. Call us for an estimate, (614) 239-7663.

Source: MHSD

Siding and Trim Color Combinations

Wed, 30 Jun 2021 11:30:00 GMT

SIDING AND TRIM COLOR COMBINATIONS TO ELEVATE YOUR HOME'S APPEAL

When you match the just-right color of trim with a great siding color, it can elevate your home’s aesthetic from ordinary to extraordinary. With so many colors of siding and trim on the market, the possibilities are endless.

With our Home Color Visualizer, you can create a customized exterior color palette on a variety of different home styles to find the winning house siding and trim color combination. After selecting a siding color, you can use the tool to experiment with expertly curated exterior trim colors. You can get inspiration for your palette with these popular siding colors matched to six different home styles.

To help spark more home siding ideas for your exterior trim colors, you can also look to these tried-and-true siding and trim color combinations.

Any siding color gets a boost from the brightness of white trim—including white siding. White siding with white trim unifies a home’s various accents, giving even traditional and vintage homes a modern feel.

White House with Tan Trim

White is a neutral color — it’s neither warm nor cool. A white house paired with tan exterior trim, however, has an instant and cozy warmth.

TRIM COLORS FOR BLUE HOUSES

Blue House with White Trim

A blue house with white trim is an American classic. Whether your blue siding is as dark as evening or light as mist, you cannot go wrong with white trim to match.

Blue House with Gray Trim

Blue house siding with gray trim gives familiar home styles (Colonials or Cape Cods, for example) an updated twist.

TRIM COLORS FOR GRAY HOUSES

Gray House with White Trim

Beige and tan are both brown tones, which are made by mixing white into brown. As a pair, tan house siding and beige exterior trim give a home an earthy vibe.

Beige House with Tan Trim

Against beige siding, tan trim has the look of traditional wood beams.

 Beige House with Beige Trim

TRIM COLORS FOR GREEN HOUSES

Green House with White Trim

Green siding may be considered retro, but it is of-the-moment with a little black mixed in. Gray-green siding looks especially sharp when coupled with white trim

TRIM COLORS FOR RED HOUSES

Red House with Beige Trim

A beige exterior trim color brightens and brings warmth to red siding, without leading to the barn aesthetic you might get with white trim.

Discover more exterior house color combination ideas

The most important aspect to finding the right siding and trim color combination for your home is all about choosing colors that best represent your personality. The combinations are endless, but the end result is a home that will shine for years to come.

Source: James Hardie

Adding a Creative Touch on a Colonial Home

Sat, 26 Jun 2021 12:30:00 GMT

HOW TO PUT A CREATIVE TOUCH ON THE COLONIAL STYLE HOUSE

Colonial style homes have influences as diverse as America’s first settlers. These houses have common attributes that are still popular today, even as homeowners add creative touches to the traditional style.

Robert Catalfomo, of Premier Building and Renovation (their work is shown above), said homeowners still appreciate the formal elements and aesthetic of Colonial homes, but more often than not, they’re adding features of other styles and using non-traditional colors to make their homes unique.

“People like to express themselves, and with the products available today, the style can easily lend itself to being more creative,” Catalfomo said.

WHAT IS AMERICAN COLONIAL ARCHITECTURE?

American settlers in the 1700s sought to replicate the styles that defined architecture in their native countries, creating a variety of substyles: French Colonial, Spanish Colonial, Dutch Colonial, German Colonial, and others. Among the most popular is the Georgian style house, which is influenced both by ancient Greek and Roman architecture and the Italian Renaissance.

The Colonial style house was especially popular in southern and northeastern regions of the country through the 19th century. In the 1990s, when classical architecture made a comeback, Colonial style homes began popping up all over the country.

WHAT ARE THE CHARACTERISTICS OF A COLONIAL STYLE HOUSE?

Symmetry: Georgian style homes are usually designed to be perfectly symmetrical with a central entrance. They’re shaped like a square or rectangle and have evenly spaced windows along the front elevation. The interior is symmetrically designed with a central staircase.

Moulding: Decorative elements, such as crown moulding over the top of the windows, dentil moulding along the roof lines, and decorative bottom window sills are common in Colonial houses.

Pedimented and Gable Dormers: Pedimented dormers extend away from the roof and are supported from the ground by columns, posts or pillars, whereas gable dormers are built completely into the roof gable (the area between the gutters and the peak of the roof).

Columns and Chimneys: Some Colonial style homes have pillars surrounding the front doorway and either a central chimney or one on each side of the house.

COLONIAL EXTERIORS

The Colonial house presents a variety of opportunities when it comes to siding materials and colors. Traditionally, Catalfomo said, Colonial homes were sided with white clapboard and featured a red front door. Now, his firm only uses white siding on a small percentage of the homes they renovate. Homeowners are playing with color, from blues to grays to tans, but one traditional element remains: the vast majority of Colonial homes have white trim.

Catalfomo says he’s seen many Colonial homes sided with brick, lap siding, or shingle siding. Sometimes, homeowners will choose to combine different materials. For example, they might use HardieShingle® siding on the front and HardiePlank® lap siding on the sides and back of the house.

Some homeowners are even going further by fusing the Colonial look with other architectural styles. Catalfomo said he’s seen wood and metal accents and copper accent roofs increase in popularity. The modern farmhouse trend sometimes emerges in the details with some homeowners adding texture by using board-and-batten siding in the roof gables.

THE APPEAL OF THE COLONIAL STYLE HOME

While the Colonial house may seem overly formal to some people, modern updates to this traditional style can appeal to homeowners with a variety of tastes. Plus, the functional interior layout makes this style an ideal choice for families.

“Part of the American dream is owning that type of home … the one with the white picket fence,” Catalfomo said. “It’s a familiar style of home to many people. It’s the type of home that you can raise a family in.”
Source: James Hardie

Exterior Home Design Tips

Tue, 22 Jun 2021 13:30:00 GMT

Homes that stand out can be a good thing, but only if they are done in the right way. Well-designed houses can be beautiful without design tricks. In many cases, simplicity is key. Plus, a streamlined design can lead to savings, which you can reinvest in other parts of the house.

Like all “rules,” there are exceptions. These general principles can be applied to most building styles in many parts of the country. Understanding them will help you articulate why some home designs feel better to you than others.

Here’s what you need to know to make smart and simple exterior house design choices.

1. SIMPLE ROOF DESIGN - MINIMIZE STEPS ON THE BUILDING

Simple roof designs are easier to build and look better than roofs with endless gables and steps. Consider the roof from the earliest stages of designing the floor plan. The longer framers are on the roof working, the likelihood grows that the house will cost more to build and maintain.

2. USE COLOR AND TEXTURE RATHER THAN ADDITIONAL ELEMENTS

Using siding on the exterior of a home can add color and texture, enhancing the overall appeal of a house. Changing colors and materials adds value to the design if it’s done consistently and in horizontal bands, rather than in vertical strips.

For example, you could use HardiePlank® Lap Siding in Night Gray on your first floor, while changing to HardieShingle® Siding in Pearl Gray on the second floor.

If you want more advice on color, check out these siding and trim color combinations

3. ASK YOURSELF: “COULD THIS DESIGN FEATURE WORK?”

t doesn’t matter if it actually works. It just needs to look like it could work. Everyone has the innate ability to recognize both good and bad design, even when we don’t know why. The “why” often has to do with the most basic common sense: could the shutters close? Could the lintel really span that far? Does the placement of materials make sense? Does the front look completely different than the sides

4. MINIMIZE THE VIEW OF FRONT-LOADED GARAGES

You can mitigate the effect of a front-loaded garage by pushing it behind the face of the building, ideally 18 feet or more. This allows a car to park in the driveway without showing in front of the house. Pushing the garage back does not require any more room. Compact, connected communities with narrow streets, alleys or side driveways require less land overall than communities where there garage is the central feature of the house

5. AVOID DOUBLE-HEIGHT ENTRANCES

Your front door is key to a good first impression. Nearly every visitor to your home will engage with your front door. Double-height entrances are off-putting to many people. On some designs, the home’s entrance is often made double height in an attempt to add interest to dull elevation. The best entrances are ones that tell us where the door is and keep water off of us while we are waiting to enter.

6. USE VERTICALLY PROPORTIONED WINDOWS

Window design will vary by house style and by region, but most windows have a ratio of either 1:2 or 3:5 (tall rectangles). In addition to the proportion of the opening, take care with the proportion of the windowpanes. Vertical openings and panes visually enhance the look and feel of the house. Also, don’t forget the windows on the side of the house

A well-designed home does not need tricks. For your house to stand out in a good way, remember two things: keep it simple and less is more.

Source: James Hardie

Easily Add a Modern Style to Your Home!

Thu, 17 Jun 2021 13:45:00 GMT

Add modern elements during an exterior renovation

Adding modern elements during an exterior renovation can give your home a fresh, standout style. Whether you add subtle touches or go all in is completely up to you.

Your home doesn’t necessarily need a contemporary or modern frame to be able to co-opt these exterior design elements. Many of these ideas can work with existing home styles.

The thing to keep in mind is that modern design is all about creating a clean, streamlined look for your home. The goal is simplicity – in your exterior materials, the geometric lines, the colors, or the accents you choose to add (or not add).

Consider these five ways to easily add modern style to your home during a makeover.

USE PANEL SIDING

Panel siding is a perfect option for a more modern look. This style of siding comes in long, wide sheets, which helps you use visual lines on your house more intentionally, as shown in the house above by Carp's Complete Exteriors of Omaha, Nebraska. With panel siding options from James Hardie, you can also choose the panel’s orientation, or even cut them into a custom size for a unique look.

You can also use panel siding with HardiePlank® lap siding for a more transitional look, which blends modern sophistication with familiar warmth.

MINIMIZE THE APPEARANCE OF TRIM

Trim is a necessary feature that helps protect your home and underlying structure, but there are easy ways to downplay its appearance. For example, choosing the single board installation method for HardieTrim® boards on inside corners provides a sleek look. Compare that to the double board method, which has a significantly larger appearance and is more traditional. You can also simply choose the same color for your trim and siding, which allows the trim to more easily hide in plain sight.

LEAN ON BOLD NEUTRALS

Neutral doesn’t mean boring or beige. Whites, blacks, grays, and, even beiges, are all neutral colors. It’s up to you to choose the right shade for your home and aesthetic – such as the home above, which retains some traditional charm in a more modern color palette. Here are some other colors to consider.

Bold Blacks – while very dark exteriors have gained traction with homeowners recently, the style has a rich history. Read about it here and get recommendations for black colors in Dream Collection™ finishes. Shown above is Shou Sugi Ban from Acker Builders Inc.

Charcoal – This color family is the perfect middle ground between black and medium grays. They are bold, but also give you flexibility with your accent colors, if you choose to have them. Colors to consider are Iron Gray and Night Gray .

Warm Neutrals – These colors allow you to dip your toe into the modern waters, instead of going in headfirst. They are timeless, and work with a wide range of accent colors. A chic palette would include either Monterey Taupe or Aged Pewt er.

FIND A SOLUTION FOR YOUR BRICK

Many homes have brick accents, especially older ones that new homeowners are remodeling. Brick color trends have fluctuated throughout the years. Not all of these trends have aged well, and the tones may now be giving off a dated or old-fashioned vibe. With the help of an experienced painter, don’t be afraid to change the color of your brick. The home shown above (via @ncmodernfarmhousedesign on Instagram) has white painted brick on the first floor and HardiePanel® vertical siding on the second.

Along with a versatile siding option, painting your brick can open broad new design possibilities for your exterior in a budget friendly way. Be sure to consult with an expert on whether your brick can be painted.

Alternatively, you may be able to incorporate your existing brick accents into your new exterior design. A great way to add modern flair to brick is with black windows and trim.

CURATE YOUR ACCENTS

The less-is-more nature commonly associated with modern style means there will be fewer accents on your home. But the ones you do choose for your home will have more of an impact.
Still, every home will have necessary details, like light fixtures and address numbers. Cylinder-style light fixtures and address numbers in a sans-serif font can provide a functional, simple and stylish aesthetic.

It’s also not just what you put on your home as much as what you do not. For a nod at modern style without completely leaning in, consider forgoing shutters on your design.

Source: James Hardie

Window Styles to EnhanceE Your Home

Sat, 12 Jun 2021 20:44:00 GMT

While windows provide functional benefits such as allowing light and airflow, they can also boost the aesthetic of your home, creating a stunning visual statement. They can serve as an architectural focal point, contribute to your home’s overall style and vibe, and—with the right style and color palette—completely transform your home. Take a look at the most popular window styles to find your perfect match.

1. Casement Windows

Casement windows open outward, rather than sliding up and down. They typically feature a hinge on one side and a cranking mechanism that helps you swing the window open with ease. If you’re looking to bring in more natural light and get a better view of the outdoors, casement windows are a great option.

2. Awning Windows

Awning windows are hinged at the top and open outward from the bottom. They offer maximum ventilation, natural light and a touch of charm to your home. Their design also allows for airflow while protecting the interior of the home from weather such as a light rain. Awning windows can also be stacked or paired with fixed-lite windows to create a customized look. They’re ideal where you might want ventilation while maintaining privacy and protection from the elements.

3. Garden Windows

A garden window is a mini-greenhouse that extends outwards from your home and adds a new dimension of beauty to any room. With fully screened twin-sealing side vents, garden windows bring in a gentle breeze on warm, sunny days and create a gorgeous accent area to display your favorite plants. Often located in the kitchen, garden windows allow you to bring life and color to your interior design.

4. Bay and Bow Windows

Bay and bow windows combine three or more windows that angle out from the home, adding style to your exterior. They provide a broader view, let in more natural light and are the perfect spot to create a cozy space such as a breakfast area or reading nook. Whichever room you choose to place a bay and bow window, it’s sure to make a gorgeous visual impact.

5. Sliding Patio Doors

Sliding patio doors extend your home’s ambiance by combining your indoor and outdoor spaces. They visually expand and brighten any room, adding more light during every season. You’ll get a beautiful view, along with outstanding protection from the elements. With a variety of door styles and options, you can customize your sliding patio door to suit your taste.

6. Transom Windows

Transom windows are built directly above another window or door. Usually inoperable, they let in additional light to a room. You can find them in many shapes and sizes to enhance architectural appeal. Consider adding a transom window over your sliding patio door for added height and visual impact.

7. Colors

When it comes to choosing the exterior color of your window, it’s often a matter of personal taste. Do you wish to make a bold statement with a darker hue such as black, or are you looking for something more subtle and traditional such as white or a color that blends with your siding? Use our free visualizer tool to see options on your home.

For interior color, homeowners have traditionally chosen white, but many colors and options are available to choose from in solid and woodgrain styles. Again, the color you choose can fit your personal taste, whether you prefer a contrasting focal point or a subtle accent.

Now that you’ve learned about the top styles of windows, along with tips for choosing interior and exterior window color, it’s time to choose the design best suited for your home! CALL OHIO EXTERIORS FOR YOUR HOME WINDOW REPLACEMENT. (614) 239-7663

SOURCE: MHSD

What Is Fiber Cement Siding?

Sat, 12 Jun 2021 17:37:00 GMT

If you’re thinking about replacing your siding or are choosing an exterior for a new home, you’ll soon discover the different types of exterior materials available, including fiber cement. We’ll take you through the essential information about fiber cement to help you make an informed decision about installing it on your house.

Fiber cement siding is a durable, long-lasting and low-maintenance material that’s used on residential houses and some commercial projects. It’s a semi-rigid material that provides substantial protection, while still maintaining some flexibility.

A great way to evaluate the product is to see it for yourself, which you can do by requesting a free sample.

WHAT IS FIBER CEMENT SIDING MADE OF?

Fiber cement is made up of a few simple ingredients: Portland cement, sand, water, and cellulose fibers. However, the composition will change depending on the manufacturer. James Hardie’s formulation includes propriety additives that enhance the performance of the product.

HOW MUCH DOES FIBER CEMENT SIDING COST?

Fiber cement is long lasting and provides excellent overall value. Generally, it costs less than brick, synthetic stucco and some wood siding options. It’s typically equally or less expensive than hardboard or composite siding, and more expensive than vinyl.

Since James Hardie® products are sold through independently operated dealers, and because every project is unique, there’s no one-size-fits-all pricing. The best, most accurate way to get an estimate for your siding project is to get a quote from a local contractor who’s experienced in installing fiber cement siding

HOW DOES FIBER CEMENT SIDING PERFORM?

Fiber cement siding has performance advantages over traditional siding materials like wood and vinyl. While performance varies by manufacturer, James Hardie fiber cement siding is:

- Non-combustible. It will not ignite when exposed to a direct flame, nor will it contribute fuel to a fire.

- Created to withstand damage from moisture and rot.

- Engineered to stand up to the demands of your specific climate.

- Unappealing to woodpeckers, termites and other pests.

You can further explore the performance of James Hardie fiber cement siding, or discover how it compares to other siding materials .

HOW DO I MAINTAIN FIBER CEMENT SIDING?

Fiber cement siding is a low-maintenance exterior option for your home. The extent and nature of maintenance required will depend on your geographical location, exposure of the building and whether you have prefinished siding or if it will be painted on site.

James Hardie’s prefinished products with ColorPlus® Technology resist fading, chipping, and cracking, meaning less maintenance for you. If you need to clean your James Hardie siding, we recommend a soft brush and a garden hose. You can read more about how to clean fiber cement siding

WHAT STYLES ARE AVAILABLE?

You’ll get plenty of design flexibility from fiber cement siding as it comes in a variety of textures such as woodgrain, smooth and stucco finishes, as well as a range of prefinished color options .

In addition to textures and colors, there are several different siding profiles to help you create the right aesthetic for your home. James Hardie’s siding profiles include, HardiePlank® lap siding , HardiePanel® vertical siding , and HardieShingle® siding . James Hardie also produces a variety of HardieTrim® boards and HardieSoffit® panels to complete your home’s exterior.*

Source: James Hardie

What Type of Front Door Material Is Right for Your Home?

Thu, 03 Jun 2021 12:00:00 GMT

Wood, fiberglass, steel or solid glass—there are a variety of options.

Wood, fiberglass, steel or solid glass—there are a variety of options to suit your preference, your style and your budget when it comes to choosing an exterior door.

So, you’re wondering what type of front door material is the perfect choice for your home. You’re not alone. The number of styles and options leave much to your personal taste, but you can narrow down the material choices for exterior doors into four main categories: wood, fiberglass, steel and glass. Read these basics on each of the options before shopping for your next entry door.

Wood

Exterior doors made from wood are a popular choice — particularly because they can be customized to your size, shape, and style preferences. What’s more wood front doors are also easy to personalize with decorative glass accents, transoms, or side lights. One thing to note, however, is that over time, wood can naturally warp due to the elements of the outdoors. This may result in a break in the door’s air-sealing capabilities. Keep this in mind, knowing that you may have to replace exterior wood doors more frequently than those made from fiberglass or steel.

Fiberglass

If you want the look of wood with a bit more durability, consider a fiberglass entry door. These doors can be stained in a variety of colors to give you the same beautiful look of traditional wood. They can also be ordered in numerous hues or painted in any color of your choice. As noted, they are more durable than traditional wooden doors and generally stand up against small dents and nicks. Fiberglass entry doors also have an insulated core, which offers additional protection from the elements. When it comes to cost they may be slightly more expensive than wood options; however, their long-term energy savings may be enough to pay you back down the road.

Steel

If you choose a steel front door, know that you are potentially choosing one of the safest options in terms of intrusions. Metal entry doors have insulated foam with a steel panel on either side. However, while this may make them extremely strong and help to keep cool winds from creeping into your home, if the door does get a dent it can be hard to repair and will likely not pop out of the material. This may result in the need to replace the entire steel entry door.

Glass

Finally, you may choose the option of a solid glass front door for your home’s entry. Glass exterior doors can have a number of pros — perhaps most notably the view you will have from indoors and the amount of natural light they allow into your space. On the flip side, these can also be seen as cons depending on your personal preferences; along with the natural light that streams inside, you may also be bringing in cold air at the cracks of door and the view of the outdoors that you enjoy may also give neighbors a peek at what’s going on inside the home. If these factors concern you, choose a wood, fiberglass or steel door that has the option to install glass sidelights or transoms. You could also pair a glass exterior door on the front of your home with one of these three other options for the best of the both worlds.

Source: DIY Network

Types of Roofing Shingles

Thu, 13 May 2021 12:15:00 GMT

Asphalt, Slate, Tile, Wood, Metal - Which One Is Right For Your Home?

In addition to maintaining the integrity of your roof’s structure and helping to keep out water, roofing shingles also add a tremendous amount of curb appeal and value to your home. The type of roofing shingles you choose can also affect your roof’s durability against wind, rain, hail, and other weather events.

Learn more about the different types and styles of roofing shingles.

Asphalt Roofing Shingles

Asphalt roofing shingles are reliable, affordable and among the most popular roofing material in use today. According to the Home Innovation Research Labs’ 2018 Builder and Consumer Practices Report, 70% of the volume of roofing materials used in both single and multi-family residential new construction, roof repair, and roof replacement projects were asphalt shingles.

There are many varieties of asphalt shingles, some designed specifically to accommodate regional weather or unique roof designs.

Owens Corning® roofing shingles linked to in this post may only be available regionally. Please visit our Roofing Shingles page and ensure your zip code is correct to discover Owens Corning® roofing shingles available in your area.

3-Tab Roofing Shingles

3-tab roof shingles are used on many homes in the United States and Canada.

They feature three distinct tabs of equal size, providing a symmetrical look across the roof.

These traditional asphalt shingles have a repeating rectangular shape separated by “slots” and are typically less expensive than other asphalt shingle options. Installation requires care on the part of the roofing contractor to ensure the “slots” created by the shingles are straight.

Supreme® 3-Tab Roofing Shingles in Estate Gray (pictured below)

Architectural Roofing Shingle

Considered to be a premium type of asphalt shingle, architectural roofing shingles are also called dimensional shingles or laminated shingles because there are two layers of shingle pieces laminated together to provide a dimensional look. Roofs covered in architectural shingles have an aesthetically pleasing appearance thanks to the variation in shingle sizes and shapes. Due to their increased thickness, architectural shingles typically have a longer manufacturer warranty and some brands are rated to resist higher wind speeds.
TruDefinition® Duration® Architectural Shingles in Colonial Slate (pictured below

Impact-Resistant Roofing Shingles

Impact-resistant shingles are shingles that are modified and enhanced to withstand impact from hail or other debris that might fall on your roof. There are different ways that the shingles are modified to achieve this resistance.
For instance, some shingles are reinforced on the back with a reinforcing fabric , while other shingles contain asphalt mixed with polymers, such as styrene-butadiene-styrene (or SBS) which adds a rubberizing effect to the shingles. These modifications increase the shingle’s ability to absorb the energy from a hailstone, or another source of impact, which helps to reduce the intensity of cracking, denting, or other types of damage .
TruDefinition® Duration FLEX® Impact-Resistant Shingles in Onyx Black (pictured below)

To be labeled as impact-resistant, the shingles must have received a rating during roofing industry-standard impact testing (UL2218). There are four rating levels of the UL2218 standard with Class 4 being the highest impact rating. Some insurance providers offer a discount to homeowners who have Class 4 impact-resistant shingles installed on their roofs.

COOL Roofing Shingles

Covered with solar-reflecting granules, COOL roofing shingles help make your home more energy-efficient by decreasing heat absorption through the roof.

Owens Corning® TruDefinition® Duration® COOL architectural shingles in the color Mountainside (pictured below)

Specialty Asphalt Roofing Shingles

Specialty shingles can come in bolder colors and styles that mimic other roofing materials, such as tile or wood shake, and offer the practicality and affordability of asphalt shingles with a slightly different look.
For example, Owens Corning® Roofing offers: TruDefinition® Duration® architectural shingles in Terra Cotta have the deep clay color of tile with none of the hassles regarding extra weight distribution.
TruDefinition® Duration® Architectural Shingles in Terra Cotta (pictured below)

Berkshire® specialty architectural shingles with unique shadow lines and cut provide the look of natural slate without the difficult installation process.

Berkshire® Specialty Architectural Shingles in Manchester Gray (pictured below)

Berkshire® Specialty Architectural Shingles in Sherwood Beige (pictured below)

Woodcrest® and Woodmoor® specialty architectural shingles with a rustic, textured appearance mimic wood shake while meeting fire-resistance standards and providing enhanced durability.

Woodcrest® Specialty Architectural Shingles in Mesquite (pictured below)

TruDefinition® Duration MAX® thick, specialty architectural shingles designed to give the rustic definition of wood shingles.
TruDefinition® Duration MAX® Specialty Architectural Shingles in Carbon (pictured below

Other Types of Roofing Shingles

If you’re required to install non-asphalt roofing materials because of local building codes or HOA rules, then you may need to consider the following roofing options for your home. If building codes, HOA rules, or other compliance factors are not an issue, then the aesthetics – or look – of most of these non-asphalt roofing materials can be achieved using architectural roofing shingles in specific designs and colors.

Tile Roofing

Tile roofing is typically made of concrete and may be used on the roofs of historic properties and homes in the American Southwest region. They’re much heavier than asphalt shingles, requiring the interior structure of the roof to be reinforced so it can hold up the extra weight

Pro Tip: Certain granule color combinations on asphalt shingles can achieve the aesthetics of tile, such as TruDefinition® Duration® Shingles in the color Terra Cotta

Slate Tile Shingles

Slate tile roofing shingles are made of individual thin pieces of slate, a natural stone, which are quite heavy when installed together.A roof must be designed or reinforced to handle the weight of slate tile shingles adding to the complexity of their installation, which is part of the reason why they are one of the more expensive options available

Pro Tip: If you want the look of slate tile without the hassles, there are asphalt shingle options available, such as Berkshire® Shingles from Owens Corning®

Wood Shingles

Wood shingles have been used for hundreds of years as a roofing option for homeowners. Most wood shingles are made from either cedar or redwood. They are cut into precise shapes and have a much smaller exposure than traditional wood shakes, which gives them a distinct look.Wood shingle exposure is 5″ which is much smaller than wood shakes, but it is not much smaller than traditional asphalt shingles.One of the major downsides to installing real wood shingles, however, is that they are more prone to fire damage than other types of roofing and cannot achieve a Class A fire rating

Pro Tip: Homeowners looking for the rustic appearance of old-fashioned wood shingles with the durability of asphalt may be interested in TruDefinition® Duration MAX® Shingles .
Wood Shake Shingles

Like wood shingles, wood shake shingles are also made from either cedar or redwood, but are not as precisely cut — they are typically sawn off and hand-split for a more homespun look. Again, because they are made out of wood, they are more prone to fire damage and cannot achieve a Class A fire rating

Pro Tip: You can get the look of shake shingles with specialty asphalt shingles, such as Woodmoor® and Woodcrest® , which are cut to mimic the natural, rustic look of shake with less maintenance and carry a Class A fire rating, the highest fire-resistance standard in the industry.
Metal Roofing

Metal roofing is another roofing material option you may be considering. Metal roofs, whether standing seam or stone-coated metal shingles, typically tend to take longer to install and are on the higher end of costs due to materials, labor, and system requirements.
Standing Seam Metal Roofs

Standing seam metal roofing features a series of ridges or vertical seams running up the roof slope. Standing seam panels for a metal roof are typically made from

Galvanized steel

Galvalume steel

Aluminum

Zinc

Copper

Titanium, or

Stainless steel

Stone-Coated Metal Roofing Shingles

Different in appearance from a standing seam or flat panel roof, metal roofing shingles are stone-coated steel panels that simulate concrete or clay tile roofing, and wood shakes

Additional Considerations When Choosing Roofing Shingles:

Roof Components

Your roofing shingle choice and roofing system may be dictated by local business code requirements, manufacturer warranties, and system warranties. For example, only certain types of roofing underlayment can be used with non-asphalt shingles, such as tile, metal, or slate, because of fire and/or high-temperature concerns.
Structural Elements

Additionally, some roofing materials may require special roof deck preparation or reinforced structural elements.
Solar Panels

For homeowners interested in adding solar panels to their roofing systems, it’s recommended to install new solar panels overtop of full shingle coverage. This offers a double layer of protection against the elements. It often makes the most sense to install solar panels during a reroof or new roofing construction

Browse Owens Corning® Roofing Shingles to Find the Right Shingle for Your Home

Find the perfect match for your next roof by scrolling through our large selection of asphalt roofing shingles , available in many different colors and styles.
If you need a roof replacement in Columbus, Ohio call Ohio Exteriors. Ohio Exteriors is a Preferred Roofing Contractor for Owens Corning.
Source: Owens Corning

Siding Design Tips for Perfect Curb Appeal

Sun, 09 May 2021 12:30:00 GMT

Your entire facade must work together to create the perfect curb appeal.

Your curb appeal enhances the look and value of your home. The most significant part of your exterior is your siding, so it’s important to choose it wisely. Siding design doesn’t only encompass the cladding material itself, but the features that surround it such as the trim, landscaping and other exterior materials.

Your entire facade must work together to create the perfect curb appeal. Here are our best 8 siding design tips for an exterior that shines!

1. Color Contrast

When choosing the color of your siding, take into account the other colors on your facade, from your roof and shutters to the garage and front doors. While subtle palettes have been the trend in home design for years, homeowners are now leaning toward more bold and dynamic color combinations. Think: olive green siding, oak doors and white trim, or white siding, black trim and a light blue door.

2. Add Character with Trim

Trim is one of the best ways to accentuate architectural features of your exterior. It creates a gorgeous contrast while adding character to your home. Add in other charming elements like shutters and carriage garage doors to really make your home stand out.

3. Mix it Up

If you want your home to be a visual masterpiece, use multiple textures and styles to emphasize a certain part of your facade. If you’re covering your home mostly with smooth board and batten siding, consider using cedar-shake siding to highlight your entryway and add an interesting contrast of textures!

4. Consider Your Landscaping

Not only should your siding coordinate with the elements on your home, it should complement the elements surrounding it as well—particularly your landscaping. Making sure your exterior blends with the landscape will create a more harmonious look for your facade.

5. Let Your Architecture Shine

While landscaping is important, don’t let it overshadow the architecture and features of your home (such as your gorgeous siding!). A green lawn, a few rose bushes and some subtle vines will allow the character of your home to shine.

6. Stone

Stone or stone veneer is another gorgeous way to complement your cladding. It’s versatile, working for both traditional and contemporary designs, and is available in a wide array of colors, shapes and textures. Choose a warm, cool or neutral color palette for your stone, making sure it complements the other colors of your exterior.

7. Classic and Timeless

If you want a timeless look for your home, lap siding (that which is installed horizontally on your home) is the way to go. The long, narrow boards are installed in an overlapping pattern and are one of the most popular and classic siding choices of today.

8. Modern Farmhouse

The modern farmhouse aesthetic continues to rise in popularity, and it’s easy to create for your exterior. Board and batten siding is the perfect style to use for a modern farmhouse vibe, as well as features like a gable roof, antique lighting and a neutral color palette.

Ready to boost your curb appeal? These siding design tips will help you take your home to the next level! Call us for a consultation and let's work together to enhance the exterior for your home!

Source: MHSD

How Gutters Can Protect Your Home and Foundation

Thu, 06 May 2021 11:45:00 GMT

A good gutter system is essential when it comes to protecting your home.

A good gutter system is essential when it comes to protecting your home. If not properly channeled, rainwater can take a toll on your home and surroundings, like landscaping, soil, decking and concrete. Even worse, it could contribute to water in your basement, mold in your walls, and shifting in your home’s foundation. To avoid these headaches, learn more about the ways gutters can protect your home and foundation.

How Water Can Damage Your Foundation

Water causes foundation damage when it’s able to pool around the base of the home. When water flow becomes excessive, it’s up to your gutter system to control the water. If the soil around your foundation becomes saturated with water, the soil can expand, eventually putting pressure on the foundation of your house and pushing it inward. It can cause the basement walls to bow inward as well. Too much water can erode soil away, affecting the strength of the ground surrounding your home. This can lead to shifts in your foundation, which can be extremely damaging to your home.

Once the soil dries, it puts less pressure on the foundation, allowing the foundation to settle. This can cause cracks, unevenness and leaning in walls and chimneys. If the foundation is cracked or weakened and water continues to pool around the house, it can result in flooding, as well as mold growth in your walls.

Pooling water around your home can cause other serious issues year round. Without adequate water flow, standing water leads to an influx of mosquitoes in the summer, and once winter arrives, the water can freeze, leading to dangerous conditions on your driveways, walkways and patios. A proper, well-maintained gutter system will ensure your home is safe from these water issues.

How Gutters Help

Gutters catch water as it rolls off your roof and directs it to a downspout, which leads the water a safe distance from your home into a more extensive drainage system. Regular maintenance and cleaning is key to keeping your gutters in good shape. When gutters are cracked, clogged, or pulling away from your home, your home and foundation is at risk for serious water damage. If your gutter system is damaged, the water that runs off your roof can end up falling directly to your home’s foundation.

Gutters and Downspouts

Make sure your gutters are clean of leaves and debris so water can easily run through them. Your downspouts should be draining at least 10 feet from your home. Consider extending your downspouts if necessary so they’re directing the water away from your foundation, not pouring it right next to your home.

Don’t assume your gutter system is working properly without doing your due diligence. Make sure your gutters and downspouts are working and maintained to protect the foundation of your home!

Source: MHSD

3 Essential Siding Styles

Sun, 02 May 2021 11:30:00 GMT

Siding is one of the most effective ways to transform the outside of your home and make it stand out. This is one of the biggest exterior choices you can make, so planning ahead will help ensure you get a house that appeals to you now and looks timeless for years to come.

To help guide your house siding ideas for your current residence or new dream home, here’s what you need to know about the three most essential siding styles.

LAP SIDING

Lap siding , which is also known as clapboard or plank siding, is probably the most widely recognized style. It is made up of long planks that are installed horizontally with the course of siding above slightly overlapping the course of siding below.

Lap siding is often seen on traditional homes, but Alan Barley, a principal owner of Barley|Pfeiffer Architecture in Austin, Texas, said small tweaks can give lap siding a more contemporary flair.

“I don’t consider lap siding locked into one style of house or another,” Barley said. “It’s the application that makes it lean one way or another.”

For example, Barley said traditional houses tend to use small-to-mid-width lap siding planks that end on wide trim boards on corners and around windows. Lap siding can skew more contemporary by eliminating trim from the design, or even using alternating plank exposures

SHINGLE SIDING

Shingle siding , also known as shake siding, is easily recognizable and many people associate it with Victorian-style homes or quaint New England Cape Cods. It is also commonly used as an accent material in roof gables.

Barley notes that shingle siding isn’t limited to small accents and can be effectively used as a main feature of the house in conjunction with other siding materials. For example, a house might have stone to the middle of the first floor, a section of horizontal siding, and then a wide band of shingle at the top.

Wood is the traditional material for shingle siding, but modern materials, like fiber cement, also come in various heights and textures, with either straight, staggered or scalloped edges, which mimic the appearance of wood with lower maintenance.

VERTICAL SIDING

Vertical siding , or panel siding, is characterized by its tall, wide panels that provide a clean, unadorned appearance that’s typical of contemporary homes. Vertical siding can be used on its own for this modern look, but you can also use it as the basis for the widely popular board and batten style. For this look, vertical batten strips are placed atop panel siding at regular intervals to create a rustic aesthetic.

While board and batten is often associated with farmhouse-style homes, it is a versatile siding style. You can easily change the feel of the design by shrinking the space between battens, which can be a more contemporary application

DEFINE YOUR STYLE

The look you are trying to achieve will define the style of siding for your home. Barley recommends that homeowners clearly communicate these tastes to your architect or designer, and ask about their design philosophy as well. Barley likes to incorporate materials with regional flavor and color palettes that blend with the home’s surroundings.

“You let the client’s needs and the site’s needs determine the design,” Barley said. “You, as the architect, try to get yourself out of the way and identify the symbiosis between the land and the people on the land.”

Since most modern siding comes in similar styles, it’s important to consider what the materials are made of so you get long-lasting protection without a lot of maintenance. Fiber cement is a durable siding material that comes in a wide range of styles and finishes that mimic the look of wood and stucco, but are engineered to stand up beautifully, whatever the elements.

Source: James Hardie

A Guide to Craftman Architecture

Tue, 20 Apr 2021 11:00:00 GMT

The Craftsman style house has been delivering head-turning designs since the late 19th century. This traditional style has maintained popularity in part because of the flexibility it provides, lending itself to design choices that make each home unique.

Even houses built in other styles make use of Craftsman-inspired details, lines, and spaces. That may be because these attributes reflect a sensible aesthetic that homeowners seek.

“There’s just something traditional, homey, and inviting about a Craftsman style home,” said Jill Rolling, co-owner and designer for Black Birch Homes and Designs, whose Craftsman-inspired home is shown above. “You see that front porch and you just want to be welcomed inside.”

WHAT IS CRAFTSMAN ARCHITECTURE?

Craftsman architecture grew out of the Arts and Crafts movement, which was an anti-industrial trend that emerged in Europe and North America in the late 19th century. Traditional craftsmen believed that quality suffered and decorative art was obliterated by manufacturing. So began an era of handmade architecture that didn’t compromise on artistic detail.

Craftsman builders left many of the structural elements of the house, such as beams and rafters, exposed to showcase the beauty of their work. Hand-finished details also became a hallmark of the style.

WHAT IS A CRAFTSMAN STYLE HOUSE?

The Craftsman-style home has taken on a variety of forms and regional influences over the years, but its distinctive details are always recognizable. Rolling said the defining features include lots of trim details, from big corbels (carved-wood structural supports) to tapered columns to decorative gables, along with deep front porches and overhanging roofs. There are several different substyles of the Craftsman home, each with their own unique features:

Craftsman Bungalow: These are smaller, one-story homes with tapered columns and large, functional porch spaces. They feature low-pitched roofs and sometimes have decorative features such as stained-glass windows.

Mission Style House: These homes have Spanish influences, such as terra cotta roofs, stucco walls, tile details, arches, and curved edges. They often have sprawling verandas and interior courtyards.

Prairie Style Homes: Frank Lloyd Wright was responsible for the development of the Prairie style house, which is popular in the Midwest and has a distinctly more contemporary feel. These low-profile homes have covered porches and flat, overhanging roofs. Rows of windows emphasize the horizontal lines and bring the outside in.

Four Square House: Rolling said these houses gained popularity because they were efficient to build and fit well on city lots. They’re usually built with two stories and four rooms on each floor, with a square profile and a large, covered front porch.

California Craftsman: Southern California was one of the birthplaces of the Craftsman home. This more traditional style often has trellis-covered porches and walkways along with low-pitched roofs.

POPULAR CRAFTSMAN SIDING STYLES AND COLOR

With so many options for structures, textures and colors, along with the opportunity to bring in hand-finished details unique to your home, it’s easy to stick to the Craftsman style while still building a home that reflects your personality. So if you’re looking for a home with traditional design roots, a familiar appeal, an inviting aesthetic, and room for personal touches, get inspired by the Craftsman style.

Source: James Hardie

The Bacics of a Dark Exterior Design

Mon, 19 Apr 2021 11:15:00 GMT

Using dark siding colors is one way that you can stand out and still fit in.

Choosing a color for the outside of your house can be an important and personal decision. Many homeowners search for one that’s distinctive and striking, while also being timeless and classic.

Using dark siding colors is one way that you can stand out and still fit in. There is growing interest in siding colors ranging from darker grays to almost pure black, and more homeowners are opting for this bolder option. In fact, you can expect to see more all black exteriors in 2021.

If you’re thinking of choosing a dark siding color for your home’s exterior, here’s what you need to know, and some bonus expert design tips.

DARK GRAY OR ALL BLACK HOUSES AREN'T A FAD

While dark or black exteriors are certainly gaining traction in North America, it might be easy to think of it as a passing trend. But, this color palette has a long and rich history in other parts of the world.

In Japan, Shou Sugi Ban is the centuries-old practice of preserving wood (typically red cedar) through charring and finishing it with a natural oil to weatherproof it. The result is a dark, and sometimes black, finish. Unfortunately, this can be an expensive and time-consuming process (depending on the process and supplier).

Builders in Scandinavia have been treating home exteriors with a black-colored pine tar since the Viking era.

Both regions are now known for the minimalist home styles that have inspired modern house design.

“There are deep architectural traditions related to using black exterior cladding. Many began with practical needs for weatherproofing or fireproofing. But those efforts have led to visually striking buildings that have inspired architects around the world.” says Jason Taylor, principal at Taylor-Viazzo Architects in New Rochelle, New York. “With so many high-performance cladding materials available, today's modern architects have new ways to interpret those traditions to create the buildings of the future.”

Taylor has specified dark siding on some of his designs, using the Iron Gray ColorPlus® Technology finish color on several recent projects. He said he has also considered using even darker shades. Taylor is the architect behind the home shown above, and is also the photographer who took the photo.

BLACK SIDING IS A NEUTRAL COLOR

You’ve heard the expression “black goes with everything.” That’s because black is a neutral color, just like white, gray, beige, and brown. Neutral colors aren’t represented on the color wheel of warm and cool colors, and they can be viewed as not having color at all.

This absence of color gives neutrals broad versatility and the ability to pair well with many other colors. It also gives them a reputation for being a classic choice for virtually any home design.

But “safe” doesn’t equal “boring,” especially when it comes to black or near-black gray siding colors.

“Dark siding can be unique, more bold, and a little more crisp,” Taylor says.

CONSIDER THE ENTIRETY OF YOUR PROPERTY

Dark siding colors also present opportunities for high contrast, which can accentuate your home’s architectural features and landscaping.

“We consider landscape design with every project we do,” says Taylor. “The green of plants can really pop in front of classic white siding. But, that contrast is just as strong, if not more powerful in front of really dark siding.”

With dark siding the contrast with nature can remain strong while allowing the home to simultaneously blend into its surroundings. This approach creates balance for the property and prevents your home from sticking out in an unintentional way.

Taylor says there’s an easy way to see if your landscape and home are making effective use of light and dark. Simply take a photo with your phone and change the filter to black and white. This will allow you to uncover the defining features of your house and landscaping.

USE DARK TRIM FOR A MONOCHROME LOOK

White or light trim is a popular choice for many homeowners because of its simplicity. While it can work well with dark or black siding for a high-contrast effect, it’s not the only option.

In fact, Taylor has minimized the appearance of trim in some of his designs that use dark siding. One way is to use a matching dark trim that leads to a monochrome look. The result makes the house look as though it is simply wrapped in a linear texture.

"This allows the shapes of the architecture to stand out without the heavy trim, which frames or outlines everything as opposed to letting the massing of the architecture read on its own,” Taylor said. “There's nothing wrong with dark siding and white trim.”

USE A HIGH-QUALITY SIDING MATERIAL

A dark exterior is most successfully done with a high-quality cladding material, such as fiber cement siding. This material also has the benefit of being relatively low maintenance. In the past, homeowners who wanted a darker exterior were mostly limited to wood siding, which requires more frequent upkeep to maintain its appearance.

“The nice thing about James Hardie products is they'll probably still look great in 30 years with very little maintenance,” Taylor said. “That makes it even more important to not over-style your design or make it trendy. If a building material is going to last a long time, then it's even more critical that the design lasts just as long or longer.”

DARK JAMES HARDIE SIDING COLORS TO CONSIDER

James Hardie® siding products come in a range of dark colors, including deep grays, rich browns, and even near black. Here are four to consider, although there are many more available as Dream Collection™ products.

• Iron Gray – A deep gray siding color with cooler undertones.

• Night Gray – A little lighter shade than Iron Gray and with fewer cooler undertones.

• Jet Black – One of the darker colors in the Dream Collection. This is a neutral (not quiet) black.

• Black Ash – This is a very dark gray color that’s akin to a dark charcoal. It’s a bit lighter than Jet Black and Anchor Black.

If you’re ready to see some of these colors for yourself, you can request Statement Collection™ product samples, or order Dream Collection™ product samples.

We proudly install James Hardie siding products in Columbus, Ohio.

Source: James Hardie

Roof Replacement Cost

Thu, 15 Apr 2021 10:00:00 GMT

The cost of a roof replacement depends on various factors that can’t always be easily summed up with an online roofing calculator.

Investing in a new roof not only helps to protect your home from the elements, but it can potentially save you money on energy bills or numerous repairs, as well as boost curb appeal and overall value.

Read on to learn more about 14 key factors that may impact the cost of replacing your roof.

14 Key Factors That Impact the Cost of a New Roof

Every roof is unique and requires a trusted, professional roofing contractor to thoroughly inspect and provide an estimate that is specific to your roof’s needs.

While you might want to multiply the size of your roof by an estimated number for the cost of roofing materials and labor, this is an oversimplified calculation that leaves out many critical factors that can impact the total cost of your roofing project.

Roof Size

The size of your home’s roof directly impacts its replacement cost. The more surface area you must cover, the more materials you’re going to need, including OSB/plywood, underlayment, and shingles.

Roof Square Footage

The square footage of your home is not the same as the square footage of your roof, although you can use that figure as a starting point.

Your home’s square footage, frequently listed during a sale or appraisal, is a sum of all gross living areas. It includes each level of a house with multiple stories, but it usually doesn’t account for garage space, basements, and interior walls.

The roof square footage, on the other hand, includes all covered living spaces along with:

Garages
Walkways
Overhangs
Lanais, and
Front entryways

You can get a rough idea of how large your roof is in square feet by multiplying the length (in feet) by width (in feet) of all flat planes and adding them together. All measurements should run to the edge of each surface, so that they include any areas that jut out beyond the side of the house (like eaves or overhangs).

Roof Slope

Remember learning how to calculate rise over run in junior high math class? Roof slope is a real-life opportunity to do a rise over run calculation to figure out the incline, or slope, of your roof.

Residential roofs may have steep slopes, low slopes, or a combination of both. Roof slope is expressed either as a ratio or fraction indicating how many inches the roof rises vertically for every 12 inches it runs horizontally (rise/run).

For example, a roof with a 10/12 (or 10:12) slope is much steeper than a roof with a 4/12 (or 4:12) slope.

In general, the steeper the roof, the more expensive the project cost, and this is typically due to safety reasons. A very steep roof might require special equipment for the roofers to use while they work on it, for instance.

Roof Slope Factor

The slope factor of the roof also contributes to the total square footage. You can determine the slope factor with the aid of a calculator, but roofing contractors typically have slope factor charts that simplify the process.

If you know your roof’s slope, you can find the slope factor using a table or online calculator. If you’re measuring the roof square footage from the ground, then a pitch factor needs to be added.

Waste Factor

Roofing contractors typically add somewhere between 10-15% to the total roof square footage to account for waste factor, but this calculation can vary based on roof style or roofing materials. In roofing, waste factor accounts for material that is overlapped in valleys & hips, as well as cut off material around flashings, penetrations, and gable ends.

Roofing Squares

When you work with roofing contractors, you may hear the term “squares” being discussed as part of roofing material estimates.

Roof surfaces are measured in squares. A roofing square is an area of your roof that equals 100 square feet and covers a 10’ x 10’ area. The number of roofing squares needed for a project is calculated by dividing the total roof area by 100 (which is 1 square).

For example, if your roof covers a 2200 square-foot area, divide 2200 / 100 = 22, so your project would require 22 squares of shingles to cover your roof.

Pro Tip: You can also order an aerial roof report from aerial measurement companies. An aerial roof report will show you the size of your roof in squares, as well as the slope, or pitch, of your roof.

Roofing Materials

The type of roofing shingles and materials you choose, or may even be required to have installed based on your geographical location and local building codes or HOA rules, will also impact the cost of getting a new roof. For example, traditional three-tab shingles may not cost the same as architectural shingles that also meet COOL roof code requirements.

In addition to shingles, you may also need to replace or install new:

Decking
Underlayment
Vents
Flash ing, around chimney, skylights, or roof to wall transitions, for example

Products within these categories vary in cost due to their own differences in materials, performance, warranties, design or look, and other factors. For example, a roll of synthetic underlayment typically costs more than felt because it is a higher-quality product and covers far more area than a roll of felt.

Depending on the type of roof shingles you choose for your home, a roofing contractor may need to follow special application instructions and/or use specific types of roof components to meet warranty requirements. For example, our Berkshire®, Woodmoor®, and Woodcrest® collections have special application instructions and require specific components to meet warranty requirements.

Roofing Design and Shape

The architectural style or design of a roof will also impact the cost of reroofing. For instance, your roof might have a steep A-frame, multiple dormers, or have a combination of gables and valleys.

A roofing contractor will likely consider the architectural design when providing a roof replacement cost estimate, and you might hear them refer to your roof as “cut-up” — meaning the roof has a more complex construction.

Condition of the Existing Roof

If you need a total roof replacement because your existing roof is heavily damaged, then this may affect the cost as well.

For example, if your roof has a hole in it that requires work on the underlying wood structure, this involves extra labor and materials. Water may have seeped into your attic and upper floors, causing damage that needs to be repaired.

In general, minor roof damage may not be that expensive, but major roof structural damage is likely to be much costlier.

Other Factors to Consider in Roof Replacement Costs

Geographical Area

The area of the U.S. where you reside affects your roofing costs as well. This is primarily because the expense of materials and hourly labor rates are different among geographical regions.

A roof replacement on the West Coast, for example, might not cost the same as a similar job in New England. Additionally, certain areas, such as California and Florida, have specific material and installation requirements to comply with state and/or local energy and/or building codes.

Local Building Permits and Inspections

Many communities require building permits for roofing installation, which must be obtained from the proper municipal authorities. These fees should be factored into an estimate.

In some areas, many inspections take place as the installation progresses, which may add both time and cost to the roofing project.

Roofing Contractor Rates

Roofing contractors typically charge an all-in price per square for a roofing project. This price should include labor and the cost of materials.

To figure out whether rates are reasonable, ask for and compare estimates from several roofing companies in your area, and talk to neighbors, friends, or family who may have had roof work done recently.

Material Disposal Fees

If your roofing project involves removal and disposal of existing roofing materials, then your contractor may add disposal fees onto the total cost of the job. This might involve a dumpster rental if the job is big enough, or might be a general materials disposal fee.

Extended Warranties

Some roofing manufacturers may offer extended warranties for the customer to purchase separately from the standard roofing materials warranty that automatically comes with the products, and this can add to the overall cost of the project.

Ventilation

If it’s determined that your roof doesn’t have adequate ventilation, then installing new vents may impact your roofing project’s costs and timeline. Use our ventilation calculator to estimate your minimum ventilation requirements. Please consult our Ventilation Training Manual for more information on determining proper ventilation.

Roof Repair vs Roof Replacement

When your roofing contractor evaluates your project and provides you with an estimate, they likely will let you know whether or not you need a roof repair or roof replacement.

Some things that might affect their decision include:

Age of roof
Existing roof leaks
The extent of roof damage, such as if the damage is aesthetic or structural
Geographical are a

Minor or Moderate Damage: Roof Repair

Partial reroofing or repairs may be an option if the physical damage to your roof is mild or moderate. For example, wind damage may have removed several shingles from a certain area of your roof or perhaps the damage is more moderate, but confined to one side of a roof instead of widespread.

In both cases, a roof repair or partial reroof project is likely going to cost less than a total roof replacement.

More Significant Damage: Roof Replacement

If your roofing contractor finds in their evaluation that the damage to your home’s roof is more extensive and/or involves critical structural components, then it might make more sense to get an entirely new roof.

Investing in a complete roof replacement may help you avoid further damage and costlier repairs. Getting a new roof helps to protect your home and your own peace of mind – and you’ll be able to choose a shingle style and color of your choice rather than simply trying to match existing materials.

The Bottom Line

Even if you’ve set the money aside to invest in your home, you may be wondering if you can afford a new roof.

The only way to truly know how much your roofing project is going to cost is to talk to a reputable roofing contractor.

Costs can vary greatly when it comes to roofing projects, whether it involves a repair or complete roof replacement.
Online roofing calculators can help you estimate costs based on the size of your roof, roofing material types and other factors, but are an incomplete estimation.
Be wary of roofing contractors with significantly lower rates. Significantly lower rates could be a red flag that they’re uninsured, trying to cut corners, or using substandard materials.

Ask About Finance Options

Fortunately, roof financing options make it easy to get the roof you need without emptying your wallet. Look for loans with low monthly payments, no prepayment penalty, and deferred payments. Ask your independent roofing contractor about finance solutions when requesting your estimate. AT OHIO EXTERIORS, WE DO HAVE FINANCING OPTIONS AVAILABLE FOR YOUR NEW ROOF REPLACEMENT AND WE ARE A PREFERRED CONTRACTOR WITH OWENS CORNING.

Source: Owens Corning

Proper Attic Insulation Helps Your Home and Roof

Tue, 06 Apr 2021 00:47:00 GMT

To ensure proper R-Value is achieved, use an R-Value ruler to measure loose fill insulation

The performance of your roof involves more than durable roofing shingles. It takes a complete roofing system—including ventilation and insulation products—to maximize your roof’s performance and durability.

These elements work together to provide additional comfort and help to:

Extend the life of your roof
Save money on heating and cooling costs
Redu ce greenhouse gas emissions.

Attic Ventilation + Insulation = Fewer Roof Problems

The combination of attic insulation and a balanced ventilation system helps keep excessive household moisture and heat out. As a result, the proper conditions and temperature are better maintained in the attic and on the roof deck throughout the year.

Without proper ventilation and insulation, heat and moisture that is trapped in the attic can potentially cause significant damage to your roof and home, such as:

• Ice dams that prevent water runoff

• Premature failure of roofing materials

• Wet wood—sagging roof deck

• Metal rust (nail heads)

• Mold, spores, fungi and mildew

• Interior damage

How Does Attic Ventilation Work?

Attic ventilation is all about removing excess moisture and hot, stagnant air while keeping conditioned air inside the house and out of the attic. Proper ventilation is a critical component of a high-performance roofing system and helps to keep the air inside your home at a comfortable temperature. A properly ventilated attic enables natural, constant air flow, and helps to manage attic temperature and moisture.

In cold temperatures, properly ventilated attics help mitigate ice dams and minimize frost buildup in the attic, while in hot temperatures, they minimize temperatures and excessive moisture.

The ABCs of Ventilation

There are 3 key, universal principles of proper ventilation, which are commonly referred to as the ABCs of ventilation in the building industry:

A = Ample Amount
B = Balanced
C = Control Air Flo w

A = Ample Amount

The Owens Corning vent calculator can provide a general guide on the amount of roof ventilation your home needs.

The International Building Code (IBC) and International Residential Code (IRC) require a minimum ventilation ratio of 1:150 (1 square foot of vent area for each 150 square feet of attic/roof area). If certain requirements are met, such as balanced ventilation, the ratio can be reduced to 1:300. Check local codes for specific requirements. Owens Corning recommends a 1:150 ratio combined with balanced intake and exhaust ventilation for optimum results.

While having an ample amount of vent area is critical, where the vent area is located on the roof is just as important.

The system needs to be balanced.

B = Balanced

Proper ventilation needs a balance of intake and exhaust vents (50% intake, 50% exhaust). Exhaust vents (typically ridge vents or off-ridge vents near the top of your roof) are pulling air out of the attic, which creates negative pressure in the attic without intake vents to make up for the air that is escaping.

Negative pressure sucks – literally.

Intake vents should be installed in soffits or lower on the roof slope near the eaves. If you don’t have at least an equal amount of intake ventilation to balance the exhaust ventilation, then the negative pressure in the attic can suck air from the inside of your home. This means the air you paid to heat or cool inside your home is being pulled into the attic through the ceilings, cracks in the walls, lighting fixtures and/or joints in the framing – making your home uncomfortable, while also wasting energy and money.

Balanced flow helps to keep conditioned air inside the house and out of the attic. Read more about proper attic ventilation.

C = Control Air Flow

Properly air sealing and insulating an attic space can help prevent conditioned air from escaping into the attic, creating a more comfortable home. Insulation saves money on heating and cooling bills and helps to keep the attic temperature where it should be. In the winter, a thick layer of insulation helps keep the heat in the house and out of the attic and helps your house stay cool in the summer.

In addition to insulation, you need to seal air leaks.

Control Air Flow: How Insulation Works

Heat flows from warmer to colder areas until the temperature in both places is the same. In the winter, heat travels from indoor heated spaces to adjacent unheated spaces, such as your attic, garage, basement and even the outdoors.

Insulation works by providing an effective resistance to the flow of heat to other areas. In other words, insulation helps keep your interior, heated rooms warm and toasty while preventing heat from flowing to cooler, unheated spaces.

This application works in reverse in the summer months, with insulation helping to control air flow and contain your cooled air.

R-Value

Insulation resistance to conductive heat flow is expressed as an R-value, which is thermal resistance. In general, the higher the R-value, the greater the effect the insulation has at providing resistance to heat flow.

Increased insulation thickness can increase the R-value. So, if you use loose fill fiberglass insulation in your attic it will be thicker than other types of insulation in order to achieve the same R-value, but this is typically not an issue as attics have room for additional thickness.

One benefit of loose fill insulation is that you can blow-in insulation as thick as you want to achieve any desired R-value.

Minimum R-value levels differ according to building codes and geographical areas. The Department of Energy provides a useful resource on recommendations for floor, wall, and attic insulation in various zones across the United States. Most jurisdictions also enforce an Energy Conservation Code that dictates minimum insulation R-values based on the local climate.

Why You Should Insulate Your Attic

Adding insulation to your attic is good for your roof, your budget, and the planet. Insulating your attic is one of the most effective things you can do to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Sealing Attic Air Leaks Helps Save Energy and Money

Did you know that up to 40% of the air leakage in your home can be through the attic floor?

If your heating and cooling costs are going through the roof (no pun intended), then air sealing the attic floor and adding attic insulation can help cut heating and cooling bills by up to 15%.*

Adding more insulation product to a drafty attic space won’t do much good if you don’t identify and seal up air leaks first.

The air inside our homes typically contains a lot of moisture. Excessive moisture in the attic causes trouble. Seal around cracks and joints to prevent air from escaping into the attic. Dark spots on the roof deck and water stains in the rafters can point to possible openings where air might be leaking into the attic.

If you find signs of water leaking in, get a professional roofing contractor to check the integrity of your roofing system before continuing.

Air leaks typically happen around dropped soffits, through recessed lighting, electrical boxes, and at intersections of floors/ceilings and walls. Owens Corning® ProPink ComfortSeal™ Gun Foam can help homeowners air seal all of these concerns.

If you live in a cold climate area or a region with harsh winters, then you know that heating your house in the winter can get expensive quickly. While some people might try lowering the thermostat a degree or two and throwing on an extra sweater to save money and ward off winter’s chill, this isn’t always an effective strategy.

If your attic space is unfinished, air sealing then adding insulation, such as Owens Corning® Fiberglas™, is one of the most effective things you can do to help keep heating costs down by keeping the heat where it belongs — in the living spaces inside your house.

If you live in a warm climate area or a region with hot summers, then you know the challenges of keeping your home at a comfortable temperature without your air conditioning costs going through the roof. When it comes to outdoor heat, attic insulation helps to stabilize indoor temperatures and keep air-conditioning costs more reasonable.

If you live in an area with COOL roofing standards (such as California) or other energy standards, then you should follow state and local R-value guidelines and install roofing materials, such as COOL roofing shingles, that meet the requirements and comply with all codes and standards in your area.

What is Fiberglass Insulation?

Fiberglass batts and blankets are created from glass fibers. Silica sand, chemicals, and natural minerals make up the building blocks of the molten glass. The resulting material helps reduce the transfer of thermal energy and increases sound absorption.

When choosing your insulation, look for options, such as Owens Corning® EcoTouch® insulation, which uses recycled content and is validated formaldehyde-free.

How to Install Fiberglass Insulation

Fiberglass insulation is one of the simplest insulation products to use. Homeowners can typically install fiberglass batts themselves since they’re easy to unroll and apply to spaces between joists or rafters. Most fiberglass insulation products, like Owens Corning® EcoTouch® PINK® Fiberglas™ Insulation, are available with or without facing and in varying degrees of thicknesses.

If you’re unfamiliar working with insulation or you’re uncertain about which R-value your attic needs, consult a professional to help make sure you install everything correctly.

If you want to install blown-in insulation in your attic yourself, then systems such as the Owens Corning AtticCat® system are easy to use and available to rent from local retailers in your area.

Prior to installing insulation, add baffles like Owens Corning® Raft-R-Mate® at the soffit to keep the ventilation path clear and to help prevent insulation from being blown into the soffit.

Use batt insulation to fill the rest of the opening to the soffit.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best type of insulation for an attic?

Fiberglass batts or blown-in, loose fill insulation are good insulation choices for attics. The type of attic insulation you choose depends on the specifics of your home, such as:

R oof slope
Ho w easy it is to walk around in your attic space

If you’re not sure about the type of insulation to choose, ask a professional roofing contractor or certified energy professional to help.

How much does it cost to insulate an attic?

The cost to insulate an attic varies primarily on the material you choose. You can investigate prices at your local home improvement center to give you a better idea of the total cost.

Pro Tip: Calculate the square footage of your attic to estimate how much insulation you’ll need for the attic floor.

What R-value do I need for my attic?

The U.S. Department of Energy provides a list of recommended R-values by U.S. Zones and parts of the house. However, you’ll also have to consider local building codes and your contractor’s recommendations.

Is adding fiberglass insulation to my attic worth it?

Absolutely. Proper attic insulation helps to prevent heat from escaping in the winter, and it can help moderate indoor temperatures in the summer, too. In addition to insulating the attic rafters, you should also consider adding insulation to the attic floor if there’s room.

Next Steps to Insulating Your Attic

Adding insulation to your attic is good for your roof, your budget, and the planet. Insulating your attic is one of the most effective things you can do to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Adding Owens Corning® PINK Fiberglas™ Blown-In Insulation to your attic can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by over half a ton each year.**

Our insulation products help the environment by reducing the energy required for heating and cooling buildings. We are excited to state that our PINK® Fiberglas™ insulation and AttiCat® PINK® Blown-in products are first to be certified as made with 100% wind-powered electricity1.

Source: Owens Corning

* ENERGY STAR: http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=home_sealing. hm_improvement_methodology. Savings vary. Find out why in the seller’s fact sheet on R-values. Higher R-values mean greater insulating power.

** Based on an average attic size of 1700 sq. ft. with existing R-19 insulation averaged over 7 cities in diverse climate regions. Savings may vary. †Insulate to local building codes.

1 The three types of insulation available with the wind power certification are EcoTouch® Insulation, Thermafiber® RainBarrier® Continuous Insulation, and Owens Corning® Unbonded Loose-fill Insulation. For more information about the third-party verification process, please visit www.scsglobalservices.com.

How Wind Can Damage a Roof

Thu, 01 Apr 2021 15:37:00 GMT

ASPHALT ROOFING SHINGLES & WIND RESISTANCE

The roof is an easy target for one of Mother Nature’s most unpredictable and powerful forces — wind.

Strong winds can cause sudden, devastating roof damage when a severe storm moves through, but asphalt roof shingles can also be negatively impacted on windy days when there’s no rain, hail, sleet, or snow in the forecast.

If you’re concerned about potential roof damage from the wind on your asphalt shingle roof, here’s a crash course on why it happens, how to spot signs of roof damage, and the lowdown on asphalt roofing shingles that are specifically designed for wind resistance.

How Wind Interacts with an Asphalt Shingle Roof

Wind doesn’t always move in a steady, smooth stream — it swirls up, down, sideways and in circular patterns at various speeds in reaction to temperature and pressure differences in the Earth’s atmosphere, and variations in the land’s topography and terrain.

When wind encounters a structure such as your home, it acts in some fairly predictable ways:

Wind hitting the side of the home travels up and over the roof with varying degrees of uplift pressure.
Uplift pressure is the highest at the corners of the roofline, and the pressure is almost as high along the roof edges, which makes these areas particularly vulnerable to wind damage.
As wind moves across the roof surface, negative pressure – also called suction pressure – is created and may suck up, or lift, shingles off a roof deck.

Factors That Influence How Wind Affects Your Asphalt Shingle Roof

Several factors influence how wind may affect or damage your roof, including its speed and direction when it encounters your home, along with:

Where your home is situated and the local weather patterns. Your roof is more vulnerable to damage if you live in a hurricane- or tornado-prone area, or where high winds occur frequently.
Your roof geometry. High-pitched gable roofs with wide overhangs are more susceptible to wind uplift, whereas aerodynamic, four-sided hip roofs are more resistant to damage.
Other variables. The nailing method used to install the shingles, the quality and strength of the fasteners, and the installation temperature can also play a role in the roof’s ability to resist wind.
Installation flaws. Misaligned shingles, incorrect nail placement, poorly sealed flashing or the lack of starter strip shingles can all cause increased susceptibility to wind.
The age and condition of the roof. An older roof with dried-out, cracked or curled shingles or spots where the sealant bond has failed is at a greater risk of being badly damaged by the wind.
Previous damage that hasn’t been addressed. A roof that has existing issues, such as broken shingles, missing shingles, and/or missing flashing, is more likely to incur wind damage over time or suffer extensive damage during a severe storm.

Signs of Wind Damage on Asphalt Shingle Roofs

Some signs of roof wind damage are more obvious than others. After a severe weather event, significant wind damage to a roof may be highly visible, such as:

A puncture from a fallen tree limb
Large swatches of exposed underlayment where shingles have been blown off
Mangled or missing sections of flashing, or
Missing hip and ridge shingles
Other signs may be subtler, but you can spot them if you know what to look for both indoors and out. As always, keep safety in mind with anything you do and wear appropriate protect ive gear. If you are unable to safely check your home’s exterior or interior for signs of roof damage, please contact a professional roofing contractor.

Outdoor Evidence of Roof Damage

Walk your home’s perimeter to check for pieces of shingles and scan the roof for:

Areas where shingle edges look slightly raised, which tells you the seals may have been broken
Narrow lines near the shingle edges which can indicate they may have been flipped up and creased
Scratch marks across the roof field where wind-borne debris has raked across the roof
Damaged ridge or soffit vents
Cracked or gaping chimney flashing
Curled, torn or raised shingles along the roof edges
Deposits of debris such as tree branches or broken glass on the roof or in the gutters

Indoor Evidence of Roof Damage

You can check for potential signs of wind damage inside your home by inspecting your attic and finished living areas. As always, keep safety in mind with anything you do. When going up into your attic be sure to have a sturdy walking path and wear appropriate protective gear. Again, if you’re unable to do this safely, please contact a professional roofing contractor.

How to check your attic for signs of roof damage:

Go up to the attic while it’s still light outdoors.
Use a flashlight to check for water leaks and stains on the underside of the roof or signs of water damage on the floor.
Turn the lights off and scan the roof decking for any areas where daylight is shining through that could indicate damage has occurred above.

In your finished living areas, look for discolored patches on the ceilings and walls that warn you that water is getting in through wind-damaged areas on the roof.

Asphalt Shingles Designed for Wind Resistance Can Help Minimize Your Risk of Roof Damage

The main methods of testing how a shingle performs when exposed to wind are standardized to help consumers choose a shingle that offers the greatest level of protection for their home.

Wind resistance is classified according to one or both standards published by ASTM International:

ASTM D3161

ASTM D3161, or the Standard Test Method for Wind Resistance of Steep Slope Roofing Products (Fan-Induced Method). This testing method measures a shingle’s ability to withstand fan-induced wind speeds and includes three classifications:

Class A for shingles that passed testing at 60 mph
Class D for shingles that passed testing at 90 mph
Class F for shingles that passed testing at 110 mph

ASTM D7158

ASTM D7158, or the Standard Test Method for Wind Resistance of Sealed Asphalt Shingles (Uplift Force/Uplift Resistance Method). This standard assigns a classification to individual shingle products based on their resistance to uplift forces when tested at specific wind speeds:

C lass D resist uplift at wind speeds up to 90 mph
Class G resist uplift at wind speeds up to 120 mph
Cl ass H resist uplift at wind speeds up to 150 mph

Asphalt roofing shingles in the market generally all carry the same wind resistance classifications: ASTM D3161 Class F and ASTM D7158 Class H. However, warranted wind coverage varies by individual product, so be sure to check the manufacturer’s product information, warranty details, and installation guide.

A manufacturer’s installation guide and warranty details will specify how shingles must be installed in order to achieve warranted wind coverage for specific wind speeds.

Your city, town or municipal planning office can advise you on which level of resistance is needed to meet local building codes. Then, you simply must check the product label on a shingle’s wrapper to find its ASTM D3161 or ASTM D7158 wind resistance classification.

To learn more about our products designed for enhanced roof wind resistance, including our Duration® Series Shingles with patented SureNail® Technology, get in touch with us at Ohio Exteriors!

Source: Owens Corning

Vinyl Building Products: A Sustainable, Earth Friendly Option

Thu, 01 Apr 2021 15:35:00 GMT

Vinyl Building Products: A Sustainable, Earth Friendly Option

Among the reasons people love vinyl building products, there’s one important factor that stands out: vinyl is one of the most sustainable, earth friendly materials available. The basic raw materials used to make vinyl are natural gas, saltwater and air, accounting for less than 0.3 percent of all annual oil and gas consumption and about 10 percent of annual salt consumption.

With growing concern about environmental issues and climate change, many homeowners are looking to use the most earth friendly options for their homes. Vinyl siding and vinyl replacement windows enhance the architectural style of a home while helping the planet. Outperforming other exterior materials, vinyl creates less waste and less impact on the environment. Take a look at why vinyl is the most sustainable option for exterior building products.

1. Vinyl and Recycling

One of the reasons vinyl is so sustainable is that it can be 100% recycled. Vinyl is a thermoplastic that can be ground up repeatedly, re-melted and formed into a variety of new products, even after the useful life of the product. Recycling is key to improving the environment by reducing greenhouse gas emissions through diminished waste disposal and landfill accumulation and incineration. More than 1 billion pounds of vinyl is recycled annually in the United States and Canada, and most recycled vinyl comes from industrial or pre-consumer recycling.

2. ENERGY STARⓇ Vinyl Windows

ENERGY STAR vinyl windows keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer, while keeping energy costs low. Homeowners can save a considerable amount annually on energy bills by replacing single-pane windows with ENERGY STAR vinyl windows.

Vinyl replacement window frames and sash corners are fusion-welded for maximum strength and protection against air and water infiltration. The excellent thermal protection of the frame provides a comfortable indoor temperature year round. When the furnace and air conditioner don’t have to work so hard, you’re able to conserve energy and save money.

3. Lifespan of Vinyl Siding

While vinyl siding can be recycled, it’s additionally sustainable due to its long lifespan. Many warranties are 40 years or more, and vinyl siding can last for more than 50 years. Vinyl siding requires minimal raw materials and produces virtually no waste. It requires less water and energy per square foot than fiber cement and less than half the energy and fuel of brick and mortar, plus less fossil fuel for transportation.

When installed and maintained properly, vinyl building products deliver environmental benefits and energy savings. It’s a no-brainer to use for your home renovations and do your part to better the planet.

For your vinyl siding or vinyl windows replacement, call us, we can help!

Source: MHSD

The Essential Guide to Board and Batten Siding

Sun, 28 Mar 2021 11:30:00 GMT

THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO BOARD AND BATTEN SIDING

You’re probably already familiar with board and batten siding, even if you weren’t sure what to call it. You may have seen it all over Pinterest boards and Instagram feeds, gracing the pages of design magazines, or even on the exteriors of homes in your own neighborhood.

While it’s a hot trend right now, the style actually dates back nearly 200 years. And that may be part of its appeal to homeowners.

“Whenever you can take something old and reuse it in a modern elevation, it’s going to be appealing in my mind,” said Elizabeth Mathieson, head of design at M House, a Naperville, Illinois-based custom home-building firm.

WHAT IS BOARD AND BATTEN SIDING?

The style evolved in the United States as a more efficient alternative to the log cabin. Barns and houses with board and batten siding were inspired by Nordic European buildings and gained popularity in America sometime around the middle of the 19th century.

Traditionally, board and batten siding starts with wide vertical planks (boards), which are then joined together by thin vertical strips (battens) to cover the seams. Homesteaders and farmers would use sawmills to cut the long boards, and the battens were put in place to make the structure as airtight as possible. Farmers embraced the style when building barns because the technique was inexpensive, assembly was relatively simple, and the result was energy efficient.

Today, wide panels are used as the primary siding and the batten strips are typically decorative, which gives home designers lots of creative license.

HOW TO USE BOARD AND BATTEN SIDING

The style provides the versatility to create an ultra-personalized aesthetic. Mathieson said designers can play with the batten spacing, and incorporate other materials or siding profiles, to create both modern and more traditional looks.

For example, if you’re thinking about designing a modern farmhouse that uses board and batten siding for the entire façade, Mathieson recommends wider spacing to achieve an elegant, modern aesthetic that doesn’t look too busy.

Mathieson has also gone the opposite direction and used very tight batten spacing in a dark color to create a very modern, textured wall.

While the look can certainly be used as the main focus of an elevation, Mathieson said it can also be successfully used for gable detail.

“If you do tighter spacing right up in the peak, it almost gives the look and feel of an applied grate,” Mathieson said.

To avoid an aesthetic that’s too specific to the farmhouse trend, Mathieson prefers to use the look in conjunction with another siding profile, such as HardiePlank® lap siding . The result, she said, is a more modern, and typically more appealing, design.

BOARD AND BATTEN SIDING EXAMPLES

How to Get the Board and Batten Look with James Hardie® Products

This siding style was traditionally made of wood. But wood siding is vulnerable to moisture damage, invites insects like termites, and requires more ongoing maintenance.

Modern building products, like fiber cement siding, make it possible to achieve an identical aesthetic with more durable materials for a lower-maintenance siding solution. James Hardie fiber cement siding is engineered to stand up beautifully , whatever the elements, and comes with the option for an authentic woodgrain finish.

To achieve the look, you’ll use HardiePanel® vertical siding as your base material. You’ll be able to choose from a variety of colors and textures to achieve a precise aesthetic that reflects your personal taste. You’ll complete the look with HardieTrim® batten strips , which are decorative 3/4-inch thick, strips.

The final design is limited only by your imagination. Board and batten siding provides unique exteriors to houses across the country. It’s a classic design style that can help your home keep its curb appeal for years to come.

We are a proud install for James Hardie Siding in Columbus, Ohio! Call us if you are ready to replace the siding on your home!

Source: James Hardie

When Should You Replace Your Soffits and Fascia?

Tue, 23 Mar 2021 11:30:00 GMT

5 Signs You Should Replace Your Soffits and Fascia

Soffits and fascia are key elements of your roof, bearing the brunt of heat, rainwater, storms, debris and critters. Further, they give your home a more finished look, hiding the rafters and elevating your curb appeal. Failing soffits and fascia can lead to major problems for your roof and exterior walls, and when they start to deteriorate, it’s often easier to replace them rather than repair them.

Wondering when to worry about your soffits and fascia? Here are 5 signs it’s time for replacement.

1. Your Paint is Flaking

Flaking paint is never a good sign. While flaking paint affects the aesthetic look of your exterior, it can also lead to exposed wood, which may begin to rot if it’s not taken care of. Bubbles in the paint can also cause water to leak into your home, causing water damage and mold.

2. Cracks in Your Soffits and Fascia

Soffits and fascia help support the roof, so the last thing you want is to see cracks in either of them. Not only are cracks unsightly, but they can also lead to leaking and water damage. They’ll only get worse over time, so make sure to replace your soffits and fascia as soon as you notice cracks.

3. Evidence of Uninvited Guests

The last thing you want is to have pests or rodents in your home or attic. Soffits and fascia are designed to keep pests out, so if you find they’re still getting inside, it could signal an issue with your system. Make sure to call an exterminator to get the pests out, then look at replacing your soffits and fascia.

4. Bad Ventilation

Soffits and fascia are supposed to keep your attic and home properly ventilated, especially when it’s hot outside. If your attic is hot and stuffy and you’ve noticed little to no ventilation makes its way into your home, there could be something blocking the airflow, or you may need to have your soffits and fascia replaced because they could be damaged.

5. Water in the Roof Void

Water in your roof void can lead to major damage and issues such as mold growth, rotting and pest damage. This could warrant expensive repairs to make your home safe to live in. Regularly check your soffits and fascia to see if they’re allowing moisture to leak into your roof void. If so, it’s best to call someone right away to replace them.

Issues with your soffits and fascia can lead to considerable damage to your home. If you notice one or more of these 5 signs, it may be time for a replacement.

Source: MHSD

What is Full-Frame Replacement for Vinyl Windows?

Thu, 18 Mar 2021 12:15:00 GMT

... And How is it Superior to Pocket Replacement?

When it comes time to replace your old windows, there are two options to consider: full-frame window replacement and pocket window replacement. If you’re doing a home remodel project, a full-frame window replacement provides numerous benefits over pocket window replacements as it is a comprehensive solution for your home! Read on to find out the difference between full-frame and pocket replacement and discover which is the superior approach for replacing vinyl windows.

What is Pocket Replacement?

The alternative option places a pocket window inside the existing window frame. The existing window sashes are removed and the new window is placed inside the existing frame. . With pocket replacements, you keep the original frame, trim, and siding intact. It’s a relatively simple process as it doesn’t require any advanced carpentry skills and is best suited for replacing wood or aluminum windows. However, it leaves you with older, worn parts of the window. Hence, if you’re looking for a brand new solution, full-frame replacement is the superior option.

What is Full-Frame Replacement?

A full-frame window replacement occurs when you completely remove your old window, including its frame and its nail fin, and install a window with an integral nailing flange. It’s the best and most comprehensive method available because it integrates the new window into the home’s existing water management system. By removing the whole window frame entirely, your new window will be larger and provide more viewable glass for you home. Not only does full-frame replacement provide the best overall value, it also gives you peace of mind in knowing you’ll have high performing, durable, energy-efficient windows that are beautiful.

Looking to Replace Your Vinyl Windows?

Whether you’re doing a home renovation that requires new windows or you want to replace your old, make sure you have the very best solution on the market. Enter: The Mezzo Full-Frame Replacement System from Alside . One of Alside’s most popular window lines, it now offers an innovative trim solution designed for full-frame replacement projects. Delivering superior performance, pleasing aesthetic and snap-fit trim, it provides the best overall value. This window replacement system helps prevent water intrusion while delivering durability and energy efficiency for a finishing touch that will make a huge difference to your home exterior.

Benefits of the Mezzo Full-Frame Replacement System

The Mezzo Full-Frame Replacement System offers two different trim styles, three vinyl color options and 10 exterior painted color choices to ensure you get the look you want for your home. It creates a uniform, clean aesthetic from window to window and can withstand wind and temperature extremes. Trimworks Decorative Window Accents custom made to each replacement window for an exact color match, and its SwiftLock Technology ensures a secure, perfect fit.

Ready to replace your old windows? Full-frame replacement is the way to go, offering a beautiful and comprehensive solution for your home! If you need to replace the windows in your home, call Ohio Exteriors, your local home experts!

Source: MHSD

Choosing Your Vinyl Siding Style

Sun, 14 Mar 2021 00:03:00 GMT

Learn About Different Vinyl Siding Styles And Which Fits Your Style

As the No. 1 cladding product across North America, vinyl siding is a great choice for homeowners looking to upgrade their exterior. Vinyl siding is made to look like real wood, so you can achieve the gorgeous look without the maintenance and upkeep. You don’t have to worry about painting, staining or rotting wood, and it’s one of the most durable types of siding on the market. It’s also quite affordable.

If you’re ready to update your home, consider the different styles of vinyl siding, which will impact your curb appeal and the aesthetic of your home overall.

Siding Types vs Siding Styles

Siding types and siding styles are often used interchangeably, but they’re not the same thing. Siding type typically refers to the material the siding is made of, such as wood, vinyl, steel, fiber cement, composite, or aluminum. These siding types each come in different styles. Vinyl siding styles have different features that create a specific look. They have unique profiles, textures, colors, thicknesses, widths and lengths that create the specific siding style.

The Evolution of the Modern Farmhouse Exterior

Sat, 06 Mar 2021 21:53:00 GMT

THE EVOLUTION OF THE MODERN FARMHOUSE EXTERIOR

The beauty, simplicity, and comfort of the farmhouse style grew out of the basic needs of a different generation of homeowners with a focus on functional elements. Now, the no-frills look of a modern farmhouse exterior is growing in popularity, even among homeowners who want an elevation that stands out from the rest.

While the modern farmhouse still attends to practical considerations such as efficiency and durability, it has also evolved, allowing designers room to play. A modern farmhouse design, like the one above by Biringer Builders, can even draw inspiration from other architectural styles, but the look remains cohesive because functional needs are never forgotten. The outdoors are never left out of the picture and simple design features return again and again to give this style a sense of familiarity.

THE HISTORY OF THE FARMHOUSE STYLE

The farmhouse style was originally chosen by working class Europeans because it could be efficiently built by hand with affordable materials. The style quickly spread across the United States in the 1700s, with the familiar white siding making an appearance because whitewashed wood provided additional weather resistance.

Once railroads allowed for new materials to be transported in the mid-19th century, customization became instrumental in design, especially as homeowners built wealth. They preferred personal touches added to the simplified design.

One of the most defining features of the farmhouse, the large front porch, sprouted up about 130 years ago. It started as a symbol of status and evolved into a functional area that allowed for family gatherings during hot summers in the South. This space set the scene for how Americans would spend their time after a long day of work and established long-lasting family traditions. HISTORY OF THE FARMHOUSE STY The farmhouse style was originally chosen by working class Europeans because it could be efficiently built by hand with affordable materials. The style quickly spread across the United States in the 1700s, with the familiar white siding making an appearance because whitewashed wood provided additional weather resistance.

CHARACTERISTICS OF A MODERN FARMHOUSE EXTERIOR

There is great variety among modern farmhouse exteriors, but certain identifying features make the modern farmhouse style unmistakable.

A beautiful front porch. Front porches don’t just cover the doorway in a modern farmhouse. They’re wide, welcoming, and covered to protect from the weather. You’ll often see porch swings or even tables and chairs on the modern farmhouse front porch, since they’re intended to be used for outdoor living.

Lots of large windows. Since many modern farmhouses have views worth looking at all day long, a great number of large windows are used to bring the outdoors in and expand the open feeling of the interior space.

Rustic-looking materials. While building materials for a farmhouse were traditionally made of wood, modern building materials like fiber cement achieve the same design aesthetic, but require less ongoing maintenance. For example, James Hardie® fiber cement siding achieves the look of natural wood, but is engineered to withstand damage from moisture and rot and holds no appeal for woodpeckers, termites and other pests.

White exterior. Often, the siding on a modern farmhouse is white, such as the beautiful example below by Acker Builders , but some designers are playing with darker colors for a more contemporary appeal.

Carriage-style garage doors. The garage doors on a modern farmhouse are typically large and wide, reminiscent of a time when horse-drawn carriages were used for transportation. They’re also usually made of wood or a similar-looking material with windows across the top.

Gable roofs. In this roof shape, the edges of two slopes meet at a peak. It’s a classic design that’s commonly adapted to survive different weather conditions.

THE MODERN FARMHOUSE EXTERIOR TODAY

The true “modern farmhouse” is only a few years old, and designs have generally moved in one of two directions: some homeowners embrace the classic look and lean more into the whitewashed and vintage aesthetic, while others choose to incorporate other styles of architecture with more sophisticated details.

For example, board-and-batten siding adds to the country aesthetic of the farmhouse, while black windows and dark metal roofs bring contemporary charm, as in the example below by DJK Custom Homes.

Even on the most customized modern farmhouses, elements such as the inviting front porch, simple lines, and large windows peak through. As homeowners step one foot forward into modern design touches, one foot remains planted in a traditional aesthetic that has come to be synonymous with comfort and safety. The result is the modern farmhouse, a style that marries functionality with design to meet the needs of the modern homeowner.

If you’re considering James Hardie siding for a modern farmhouse style, some popular color recommendations include Arctic White for a traditional look or Iron Gray for a more contemporary feel.
For all of your home siding needs, Ohio Exteriors!

Source: James Hardie

Roof Replacement VS. Roof Repair

Mon, 01 Mar 2021 22:54:00 GMT

WHICH ONE IS RIGHT FOR YOU?

When your roof shows signs of damage, it can sometimes be difficult to know whether a roof repair is entirely sufficient or if a roof replacement is more appropriate. A trusted roofing contractor can help you decide which option is best for your home.

Here are some things to consider when deciding between a reroofing project and a roof repair.

5 Roof Replacement vs. Roof Repair Considerations

Age of Roof

Do you know when your current roof was installed? Depending on the type of roofing material used, its age may be a good indication of when to replace a roof.

If your roof is showing signs of aging and/or has suffered storm damage, leaks, or other problems, it may be a good idea to consider replacing it. Replacing an older, damaged or failing roof, rather than repeatedly paying for roof repairs, can be worth the investment whether you intend to stay in your home for several decades or plan to sell soon.

Roof Leaks

A leaky roof is one of the most common reasons homeowners need roof repairs or reroofing. If you’ve seen water stains inside your home that run across ceilings or run down your walls, the cause could be a leaky roof. Finding the source of the roof leak can often be tricky, but a certified roofing contractor can help with the process.

Regardless of the source of your leak, it’s important to solve a leaky roof problem sooner rather than later — something that begins as a small leak can eventually lead to bigger problems, such as:

Mold
Rotting framing and roof sheathing
Damaged ceilings, and
Wet or destroyed insulation

The Extent of Roof Damage

If you’re deciding between a roof repair or roof replacement, then it’s likely your roof has either deteriorated in appearance and/or has suffered other physical damage. Working with a trusted roofing contractor can help you better understand the extent of any roof damage you may have so you can make the right decision for your home and budget.

Signs of roof damage will differ slightly between various types of roofing material but generally fall into two main categories: aesthetic damage and structural damage.

Aesthetic damage:

Roofing material looks old and worn
Moss, dark streaks or algae is growing on or in between the roofing materials
Structural damage:
Curled or cupped edges on asphalt or wood shingles
Missing granules and bald spots on asphalt shingles
Cracked or broken asphalt, tile or wood shingles
Dented or perforated asphalt, tile, wood or metal roofing components
Rusted metal shingles or panels

Geographical Area

Do you live in a region of the country that’s susceptible to hail storms, hurricanes, or tornadoes? If so, it’s important to replace missing shingles – or other roofing materials – immediately following a storm to help prevent future issues, such as roof leaks.

Damage from hail and falling debris can also affect your roof’s long-term performance, appearance, and ability to form a watertight roof deck.

Roof Replacement Cost

Of course, the cost of getting a new roof is one of the biggest considerations for homeowners when it comes to a reroof vs. repair.

In general, roofing repairs are going to cost less than a complete reroof project; however, if you’re paying for a slew of repairs over the course of a few years, they might eventually exceed the cost of an entire roof replacement.

Your roofing contractor can provide estimates to help you weigh the options of what might be the most budget-conscious solution without putting your home at risk from a failing roof, and may offer roof financing options.

While a complete roof replacement might be more expensive up-front, it does mean you won’t have to pay for successive repairs, especially if there are multiple trouble spots on your roof’s surface. Plus, a new roof can offer peace of mind, knowing that what you value most under your roof is protected from the elements.

When to Get a Roof Repair

Minor Damage

If you need to repair a small portion of your roof or replace a couple of shingles in an isolated area with minor wind damage, then replacing damaged material in that section can be relatively simple and inexpensive. Damaged, torn, or missing asphalt shingles, for example, can usually be replaced with new ones fairly easily. Other roofing materials may be more complex or expensive to replace individually, such as metal panels.

One downside to this approach is in trying to match roofing materials so that the repaired area blends in with the rest of the roof. For example, if you have spare shingles leftover from a previous reroofing job, the colors may be close but may not match exactly due to exposure. Another option is to ask your roofing contractor to order shingles that correspond to the existing color as much as possible.

Moderate Damage

If the damage to your roof is more significant but confined to one side or area of your roof, partial reroofing may be an option, and it’s likely to cost less than a complete reroofing project.

Again, one downside to a partial reroofing project is aesthetics. It may be harder to match the color of the new roofing materials with the existing ones. Over time, roofing material can fade due to exposure to the elements. As a result, the newly reroofed portion may stand out from the rest of the roof.

Benefits of a New Roof

While generally more expensive upfront, a new roof may save money in the long run by avoiding the added-up costs of multiple repairs or additional damage.

Additionally, a new roof offers the following perks:

Aesthetics and curb appeal: Roofs typically make up a large portion of your home’s outward appearance. Not only does a new roof look attractive, but it also gives you the opportunity to choose a new color or style of shingle, such as Owens Corning Duration® Series Shingles.
Increased energy efficiency: Today’s roofing materials have improved greatly in regard to keeping out the elements and reflecting sunlight.
Peace of mind: Knowing that the people and things you value most are protected from the elements while under your roof helps lessen stress during heavy rains and high winds.

If you’re weighing your options between a roof repair and a reroof, call us for a complimentary consultation! (614) 239-7663

Source: Owens Corning

How to Care for Your Vinilyl Siding

Wed, 24 Feb 2021 16:00:00 GMT

Although it’s extremely durable, that doesn’t mean you never have to care for it.

Vinyl siding is a versatile, beautiful cladding material for any home exterior. It offers the appeal of wood without the maintenance or worry of rotting, splitting or insect damage. Although it’s extremely durable, that doesn’t mean you never have to care for it. Maintaining your vinyl siding is easy, as long as you know what to do. Vinyl siding can accumulate dirt, grime and stains from weather, bird droppings and rust, and it’s also prone to discoloration due to insecticides, herbicides and fertilizers. Read on to find out how to care for vinyl siding to make sure your cladding looks good as new!

How to Wash Vinyl Siding

To wash your vinyl siding, you’ll need a soft cloth or long-handled soft bristle brush. For textured surfaces, use a soft bristle brush to keep the grooves in the texture free of stains. To prevent streaking, start at the bottom and work up towards the top of the house. Make sure to thoroughly rinse any residue as you go to prevent streaking.

Effective Vinyl Siding Cleaning Solutions

Vinyl siding generally only requires periodic cleaning with mild soap and water from a garden hose. You can also use the below cleaning solutions if you feel as though your vinyl siding needs more than soap and water. Always rinse off the solution thoroughly with water after removing the stain.

1. Small spots of mold and mildew can be removed with cleaners such as Windex or Fantastik.

2. If you notice bigger mold and mildew stains, combine 70% water 30% white vinegar for an all-purpose vinyl siding cleaner.

3. If your siding requires a stronger solution, mix one-third cup powdered laundry detergent, two-thirds cup powdered household cleaner, one quart liquid laundry bleach and one gallon of water.

4. There is an environmentally-friendly siding cleanser made by Simple Green that can be used manually or with a pressure washer. It’s specifically formulated for use on vinyl and aluminum siding, stucco, terracotta roof tiles and painted wood and can be used for your cleaning needs.

Can You Use a Pressure Washer?

Yes, you can use a pressure washer to clean your vinyl siding, just make sure to read the washer instructions carefully and check with your manufacturer. Some manufacturers advise against the use of pressure washers and some recommend a limited amount of pressure. If you get the go ahead from your manufacturer, make sure to hold the power washer at eye level and refrain from holding it at an upward angle as water could be driven behind the siding. Be careful when using a pressure washer around opening like windows and doors.

What Not to Do

Never use cleaners containing organic solvents, undiluted chloride bleach, liquid grease remover, nail polish remover, or furniture polishers or cleaners. These products can damage vinyl siding’s surface. Also avoid using highly abrasive scrubbers or steel wool, which can also cause damage to your siding.

While vinyl siding doesn’t require much maintenance, you still need to clean it periodically using the tips above.

Source: MHSD

Choose the Right Roofing Contractor for Your Home!

Sun, 21 Feb 2021 20:11:00 GMT

Choose the right contractor for the job — an Owens Corning Preferred Contractor.

Purchasing a new roof is one of the most important decisions you will make as a homeowner. So choose the right contractor for the job—an Owens Corning Preferred Contractor. You’ll get high quality work, outstanding customer service and the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’ve made the right decision about your roofing investment.

James Green, the Owner and Founder of Ohio Exteriors knows how important it is to partner with the leading manufacturer Owens Corning to offer the best roofing products in the industry. Founded in 1938, Owens Corning has become the global leader in roofing shingles, underlayment, and component products. Owens Corning operates in 33 countries worldwide and has been a Fortune 500® company for 66 consecutive years.

There’s a reason why Owens Corning Roofing products are one of the biggest names in the industry, it's due to their commitment to excellence. They handpick contractors who embody superior craftsmanship in their work who also have an impeccable reputation, and in doing so the contractors act as ambassadors for the Owens Corning brand. We are one of those contractors and ambassadors!

To become a member of the Owens Corning Roofing Preferred Contractor Network, we must adhere to a strict criteria:

- Be in good standing with the Better Business Bureau.

- Adhere to all local legal requirements for licensing and insurance.

- A business credit rating that is satisfactory to Owens Corning and/or its affiliated entities.

- Positive professional references, plus references from satisfied customers.

- Must have no adverse legal actions or judgments against our company during the previous 5 years.

- Absolute dedication to industry standards for superior installation and customer service.

- Our business must have been in operation under the same name for at least 2 years.

All the above criteria must be maintained on an ongoing basis or we will lose the right to participate in the Network. It is Owens Corning’s decision whether or not to designate an applicant as an Owens Corning Roofing Preferred Contractor, and that decision is made at the sole and unfettered judgment of Owens Corning and is not subject to challenge by an applicant or anyone else.

We are proud to be recognized as an Owens Corning Preferred Contractor in Columbus, Ohio.

How Roofing Underlayment Helps Protect Your Home

Fri, 19 Feb 2021 14:30:00 GMT

Why Is Roofing Underlayment Necessary?

Every homeowner knows how important a roof and its supporting components are to the structural integrity and overall beauty of their home — a roof helps keeps inclement weather at bay and protects the attic space, which allows for sufficient ventilation while insulating your home from the cold in the winter and excessive warmth in the summer.

A sturdy roof goes beyond shingles. Find out more information about underlayment, an important layer of your roof that helps keep it dry and protected from the elements.

What Is Roofing Underlayment?

Roofing underlayment is a barrier material that’s typically installed directly onto your roof deck. Depending on how your home was constructed, the skeleton of your roof is made up of rafters or trusses.

The roof deck, also sometimes called roof sheathing, might be:

Plywood
OSB, or
Step sheathing

These boards are fastened onto the rafters or trusses to help stabilize the rafters or trusses and give structure to the entire roof.

The roofing underlayment is what goes on top of this sheathing material. It offers a secondary layer of protection from moisture intrusion should any water get under your shingles.

Types of Roofing Underlayment

In general, there are three types of roofing underlayment: felt, self-adhered, and synthetic. Each has its own benefits and advantages, and the type you choose generally depends on what your roofing contractor is comfortable with and your local building codes and regulations.

Felt Underlayment

This is one of the oldest types of roofing underlayment. It’s commonly referred to as tar paper or felt paper. It’s made of an organic mat or paper that has been saturated with asphalt to help with water resistance.

Felt underlayment is generally available as two standard weights:

15 pounds per hundred square feet or No. 15 felt
30 pounds per hundred square feet or No. 30 felt

For lightweight projects, No. 15 felt can be acceptable. However, it does tear easily, and if exposed to the elements during installation, can absorb water and wrinkle.

For homeowners who opt for felt underlayment, contractors may recommend No. 30 felt, which is more durable than No. 15 felt. As with any of the underlayment products, it can be applied in multiple layers for more protection.

Some roofing contractors commonly use felt underlayment when working with slate or tile shingles, while others may prefer self-adhered underlayment. It can depend on the region of the country.

Self-Adhered Underlayment

This kind of underlayment contains high percentages of asphalt and rubber polymers, making it a water-resistant solution for roofing underlayment.

Self-adhered underlayments have a sticky back, so they can adhere to the roof deck. This sticky backing helps create a waterproof seal between the roof deck and the underlayment. This type of underlayment is designed to protect the roof from damage where water tends to collect or where penetration in the roof deck exists.

Examples of these leak-prone areas include:

Eaves
Valleys
Vents
Chimneys, and
Skylights

Self-adhered underlayments are very useful in regions that receive severe winter weather.

The upper surface of this type of roofing underlayment may contain granulated, polyethylene, or polyester materials to provide weather-resistant benefits. It also creates a non-skid surface, designed to make it safer for roofers to install, as it might be easier for them to walk around on.

Synthetic Underlayment

Within the last decade or so, synthetic underlayment has been a popular option for homeowners. While materials may vary by manufacturer, most synthetic roofing underlayment is comprised of multiple layers of various polymers woven together.

Synthetic underlayments typically have several advantages.

Tough, durable and tear-resistant
Lighter, with more coverage per roll (in comparison to most other types of underlayment products), reducing ladder trips
Secure walking surface
Clear, delineated lines and overlap guides for enhanced installation
Repels water and is inert to mold

Why Is Roofing Underlayment Necessary?

In the never-ending battle against the elements that homeowners and contractors wage, your shingles are certainly your first line of defense. Shingles can help reflect the sun’s rays, obstruct precipitation, and withstand high winds.

However, roofing underlayment adds a second layer of protection that:

Safeguards your roof should your shingles tear-away due to high winds
Helps protect your roof deck from damage caused by ice dams during cold weather snaps
Shields your roof from bad weather during the installation process, prior to shingle attachment
To meet local building codes, your home’s roofing system must include a roofing underlayment product and roof covering. Additionally, shingle manufacturers require an underlayment as part of their warranty.

At Ohio Exteriors, we offer a range of Owens Corning products designed to work with your shingles to protect your home. Call us for more information.

Source: Owens Corning

4 Ways to Make Your Home More Energy Efficient

Tue, 16 Feb 2021 01:00:00 GMT

Here are the top things to consider:

As we spend more time in our homes, there’s no doubt our homes have been working harder than ever. And as more people work from home, it’s essential to be as energy efficient as possible. While this is not only better for the environment, it will also save you money on energy costs and make your home interior more comfortable.

Want to learn how to improve the energy efficiency of your house? Here are the top things to consider:

1. Invest in ENERGY STAR® Windows

Having energy-efficient windows will make a major difference for your home, especially if your current windows are drafty and need replacing. If your windows are old, you may be losing heat, forcing your furnace to work harder. ENERGY STAR windows lower your energy bills and help reduce greenhouse gas emissions from power plants and homes. They’ll also reduce UV sun damage to floors, carpets and furniture.

2. Upgrade Your Siding

Replacing old cladding with upgraded siding is a great opportunity to improve your home’s energy performance. It will also rejuvenate your curb appeal, giving your home a brand new look. Insulated vinyl siding is especially beneficial as it creates a blanket of thermal protection to shield your home from inclement weather and energy loss. Offering strength and performance, it will keep your home cooler in the summer months and warmer in the winter, making your home more energy efficient all year round.

3. Switch to an Energy-Efficient Entry Door

Making the switch to an energy-efficient front door will increase the comfort and energy efficiency of your home while boosting your curb appeal. An older door may have holes or leaks in it, allowing outside air to get in and inside air to get out一and skyrocketing your heating and cooling bills. An energy-efficient entry door is also a selling point, increasing your home’s appeal and value to potential buyers. Your front door is a fundamental component of your house, so don’t underestimate it.

4. Check Your Insulation

Your home should be properly insulated in key areas like your attic, basement, around windows and doors, in living areas and under your exterior. Proper insulation strengthens your home’s thermal barrier from harsh elements, allowing you to live more comfortably. Signs that indicate your home is poorly insulated include high energy bills, chilly drafts, fluctuating temperature as you move from room to room, and water leaks in the attic. You may also perform the touch test. The walls, floors and ceilings of your home should feel warm and dry to the touch. When drywall or paneling feels damp or cold, it’s a sign there’s not enough insulation.

If you’re hoping to make your home more energy efficient, call us for a free estimate to replace your windows, siding or roof in Columbus, Ohio.

Source: MHSD

Modern Cape Cod Homes with Hardie Siding

Wed, 10 Feb 2021 15:27:00 GMT

THE COMPLETE STYLE GUIDE

The Cape Cod house is an American classic. This cottage-like, gabled house style has been a favorite in the U.S. since it was first introduced in the colonial era.

While Cape Cod architecture has kept most of its hallmark characteristics, the style has evolved to meet modern needs. What started as a simple and practical design, homeowners are turning into something more chic and stylish.

We’ll take you through the Cape Cod home’s rich history, give you expert design tips, and outline trends to help you make smart choices, whether you’re building or remodeling.

THE HISTORY OF THE CAPE COD HOUSE

The Cape Cod house comes from its namesake region in Massachusetts. Hundreds of years ago, colonists there adapted the square, stone, two-room “hall and parlor house” of England to make use of materials they found in the coastal U.S. and fit that climate.

Like its predecessor, the Cape Cod home was characterized by a simple, symmetrical and rectangular two-room footprint, with one room for living and cooking, and one for sleeping. It also featured a large central chimney and a pitched roof, which gives it the classic gables on either side.

Traditionally, it was clad in wood, since that was more readily available in New England than stone or brick. The earliest Cape Cods used shingle siding, with a few making use of lap siding.

“9 out of 10 Capes that we remodel are all shake siding,” said Jordan Sjostrom, a design consultant for Salem, New Hampshire-based Professional Building Services, who's work is shown above. “Every once in a while, there will be a house with lap, which is usually in a very narrow reveal of about 4 inches. It’s much more typical of older houses in New England to have a smaller reveal size for their siding.”

The quaint dormer windows that often appear in the Cape Cod’s pitched roof — what many people would now identify as being the style’s defining feature — came much later. Dormer windows were a 1920s development that allowed more light and air to reach upstairs rooms.

CAPE COD ARCHITECTURE ELEMENTS

New Over the decades, the Cape Cod stayed true to its roots while growing and changing to accommodate modern life.

Today’s quintessential Cape Cod is defined by:

● The original rectangular style, with a footprint that has more than doubled to include more rooms.
● Additional wings on the sides or back of the home.
● A pitched roof with dormers.
● A chimney on the side of the home, rather than in the center.

While many people still build traditional Cape Cod homes, modern interpretations regularly combine the tried-and-true design with elements of other styles, including modern farmhouse. You’ll also see contemporary features such as picture windows, porches, and asymmetrical footprints.

Having a familiarity with both the traditional and modern design elements will be helpful when you draw plans with your home designer.

CAPE COD HOUSE STYLE AND REMODEL TRENDS

Many Cape Cod homeowners are opting to replace their siding with a low-maintenance material, such as fiber cement siding, Sjostrom said. They are also making alterations to enhance the style and functionality.

“The more that we design with software, homeowners are opting for fewer lines across the house to give the illusion that it’s taller,” Sjostrom said. “That’s why we usually recommend a wider reveal when we switch to a new siding material, such as HardieShingle® siding or HardiePlank® lap siding.”

Among the top remodeling trends for Cape Cod houses that Sjostrom notes:

● Adding dormers where skylights currently exist.
● Widening existing dormers for additional space, seating, storage, and natural light.
● Wing additions on one or both sides of the house – typically for garages or a new living room.
● Mud room additions to the front entryway.
● Modernizing with lap siding and accenting with shingle siding to add visual texture.
● Removing shutters in favor of decorative trim and mouldings to reduce maintenance, accentuate the lines of the house, and enhance the illusion of height.
● Water tables on the bottom of the house, typically with a wide piece of trim (at least 8 inches), or in some cases, a stone or brick version.
● Using medium Earth-tone siding colors. Monterey Taupe , Aged Pewter , and Boothbay Blue are some of the most popular siding colors for Cape Cod house remodels.

For a final touch, you may consider choosing a red, yellow, or other brightly colored front door for another way to give your Cape Cod personality.

CAPE COD HOUSE EXAMPLES

PRODUCTS FOR A MODERN CAPE COD EXTERIOR

James Hardie® fiber cement siding products are a perfect choice for Cape Cod exteriors. Our HardieShingle siding and HardiePlank lap siding profiles maintain the traditional look, but with a modern, low-maintenance material. You can further reduce exterior maintenance when you choose prefinished James Hardie products with ColorPlus® Technology finishes . Browse the prefinished colors in our Statement Collection™ products , or consider one of the more than 700 colors in our Dream Collection™ products .

Source: James Hardie

Color Harmony: How to Choose Exterior Home Colors

Mon, 01 Feb 2021 01:12:00 GMT

Cooler tones are used more often in northern areas of the country, while warmer colors are more prominent in the south.

Color not only affects the way you think, act and feel, it can add value and substantial personality to your house. So, even though making decisions about which colors to use for your siding and trim feels overwhelming now, it’s all going to pay off in the end.

So, how do you use color to differentiate your house? The following guide lays out some of the basic principles of color theory, answers our customers’ most frequently asked questions, and shares some tricks from the pros.

THE COLOR WHEEL

Understanding the basics is essential to choosing colors, so here’s a little Color Theory 101. Divided in 12 sections, the color wheel is a great tool for finding color combinations that are balanced and pleasing to the eye. Here are the most effective and frequently used color harmonies on the color wheel:

Analogous colors are colors right next to each other on the color wheel. Most commonly used in a combination of three on a house’s exterior, they work well together when you want to limit contrast and create a calm, serene color scheme.

Complementary colors are opposite each other on the color wheel. They involve two colors, such as red and green. Together, they generate the most contrast, especially when used in their purest, most vibrant form.

A triad is when you select a color and instead of using its complement, you use the two colors on either side of the complementary color, resulting in a three-color combination with low contrast.

Tip: Keep in mind that not all colors should be used in equal amounts; one color should take the leading role, with the others playing a supporting role.

WARM VS. COOL COLORS

Colors are separated into warm and cool tones, based on their position within the color spectrum. Reds, yellows and oranges make up the warm side of the spectrum, whereas blues, purples and greens are cooler tones.

Warm colors evoke excitement. When juxtaposed with their cooler counterparts, warm colors appear larger, more prominent and easier to view.

Cool colors are relaxing and calming. Cooler tones are used more often in northern areas of the country, while warmer colors are more prominent in the south.

COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How many colors should I use on my home?

The number of colors used in an exterior color scheme depends on the home and how many details there are to highlight. Typically, traditional homes have three colors: body, trim and accent.

Newer architectural styles (and occasionally larger houses) can benefit from more than three colors. By adding a second body or trim color, you can make your home more visually appealing. These additional colors should be close to each other on the color wheel, with a slight change in value.

Tip: Don’t forget your roof. If it’s in good shape and you like it, then make sure the color of your siding goes with it. If you plan on replacing it soon, then don’t worry too much; choose colors you love, and your roof will follow suit.

Should my trim be a lighter or darker color than the body of my home?

Lighter trim colors are usually the best choice, since the eye goes to the lightest color in a combination first and, in most cases, you are using trim to emphasize your house’s most interesting architectural features. (This technique of guiding the eye from light to dark was often employed on Victorian houses, making one color look like a shadow of the other.) Keep in mind that not all trim has to be the same color.

If you have horizontal or vertical banding, you may want to choose it in a different color than the trim surrounding your windows. You may also want your soffits and eaves to be a different color than your window trim.

If your home has no natural way to divide colors, don't force it. Go for a less complex color combination.

Will a dark body color make my home look smaller?

A house looks smaller as a result of strong contrast in colors or using light and dark colors together. This is not always a bad thing and can actually enhance design. If you like deeper colors and don’t want your house to look smaller, then don't use white trim; instead use a mid-tone-color trim to make the main color look brighter.

What if I don’t want to use color—am I being too boring?
As much as color can add to a house, sometimes it looks best not to use any at all. Don't be afraid to have an all-white house. White reflects light and will actually appear to vary in tone throughout the day. Plus, you can always play with the color of your door and other visual elements such as landscaping or porch furniture that come together to create the overall look

Should my garage door be the same color as my front door or trim?
In most cases, no! It only draws attention to the least attractive part of your home. Also, an accent color can throw off your house’s balance, making the garage look larger than it actually is. To help it blend in, select colors that are either the same as the body color, or slightly lighter or darker.

SOURCE: JAMES HARDIE

Ascend Composite Cladding by Alside

Tue, 26 Jan 2021 00:46:00 GMT

THERE'S NEVER BEEN CLADDING LIKE THIS.

Introducing ASCEND Composite Cladding by Alside, a first-of-it's kind solution that brings together beauty, performance, durability and easy maintenance all in one for the best overall value on the market!
Give your neighbors or anyone passing by your home a reason to appreciate and admire your home's exterior! The ASCEND Composite Cladding System from Alside doesn't just make a beautiful impression, it leaves a memorable one. With a grained look of real wood and beauty that never wavers even after prolonged exposure to everyday outdoor elements, ASCEND takes composite cladding to new levels. It's the ultimate unification of aesthetics, performance and value. Take your home to a higher level and set the standards for your neighbors and community, and have that "just installed" look for many years to come!

ASCEND’s (GP)2 compound contains glass particles for added structural stability, strength and heat resistance, while titanium dioxide protects against ultraviolet degradation, and impact modifiers help resist dents and dings. (GP)2’s integral weather-able pigments provide strong fade resistance, even on ASCEND’s dark colors, and its non-moisture-absorbing materials prevent rotting, warping, shrinking and swelling.

PATENTED (GP)2 TECHNOLOGY

ASCEND is the world’s first composite cladding engineered with a combination of Glass-Reinforced Polymer and Graphite-Infused Polystyrene. This patented (GP)2 technology was developed to achieve superior performance in tests for wind load and impact resistance, workability and flame/smoke spread. With (GP)2, ASCEND boasts:

Class A Fire Rating for both flame spread and smoke developed

Impressive thermal and impact resistance

Superior wind load performance

THE LOOK OF REAL WOOD. THE PERFORMANCE OF SOMETHING BETTER.

20 Fade-Resistant Colors.

Nothing does more to impact a home's exterior design than color! Whether it's a rich color that draws your eye to an interesting architectural detail, or neutral hues applied to a historic home, a comprehensive palette ensures that you are making tasteful color choices with enduring aesthetic value and the custom look you desire. ASCEND Composite Cladding has everything you need to let your vision unfold.

ENGINEERED TO OUTPERFORM AT EVERY LEVEL. With ASCEND, years of minimal maintenance come backed by an industry-leading lifetime warranty for exceptional performance. *Guidelines do apply, ask about the warranty.

To learn more, complete the contact form on our website or call us.

SOURCE: ALSIDE

Fiber Cement Siding Maintenance

Tue, 19 Jan 2021 03:35:00 GMT

Follow these recommendations for fiber cement siding maintenance

Please follow these recommendations on caring for your James Hardie products. Damage to siding and trim arising from improper cleaning or maintenance may not be covered by the James Hardie warranty.

Exterior House Washing Recommendations for Fiber Cement Siding and Trim

Follow these recommendations to clean the exterior of your home and to help maintain the beauty and value of your James Hardie siding.

Wash down the exterior surfaces every 6 to 12 months with a garden hose to remove dirt and debris, gently clean your siding with a soft brush or wet soft cloth in a side to side motion in the direction of the plank siding. NOTE: Clean by working small sections at a time, starting from the top down to prevent dripping or streaking onto the cleaned area.
A low pressure water spray* and a soft medium bristle (non-metal) siding cleaning brush is most suitable for cleaning fiber cement products. NOTE: Acid and high pressure washing can damage the fiber cement surface and is not recommended.
Clean James Hardie ColorPlus® products by using water and a soft brush or cloth. For stubborn dirt or stains, a mild detergent and a soft brush may be used. NOTE: For paint applied in the field, refer to the paint manufacturer for washing and maintenance requirements.

Pictured clockwise from top left: Soft All Paint Brush, Horsehair Brush, Siding Brush, Chip Brush,

*Pressure Washer Warning:
Extra care should be taken when cleaning your siding and trim using a pressure washer. To minimize the chance of damaging your siding and trim use a wide fan tip, keep a minimum of 6 feet from the wall, and keep the pressure below 1500 psi.

General Fiber Cement Siding Maintenance

Maintaining the exterior of your home helps prevent water intrusion and is an important part of sustaining the beauty and value of your home. The extent and nature of maintenance will depend on the design of your house, its geographic location, the amount of weather and sun exposure, and the landscaping near your house. As a guide, it is recommended that normal fiber cement maintenance tasks and care include:

Installing gutters and downspouts on your home—if they are not already present when you purchased the home.

Cleaning out your gutters, blocked pipes, and overflows of any debris, leaves, twigs and dirt.
Keeping vegetation such as shrubs, bushes, and small trees trimmed back and away from the home and siding.
Adjusting sprinkler systems so they do not excessively spray on siding or continuously soak the ground near your house.
Avoiding direct contact with deicing salts, as these salts may prematurely damage the finished look of the siding. We recommend the use of sand or gravel to manage snowy or icy surfaces near siding
Ensuring required external ground clearances (typically 6 in.) and drainage slopes are maintained. NOTE: Do not in fill landscaping up to the siding.

Re-Painting Siding

ColorPlus® ProductsColorPlus® Touch-up Kits can be used to cover nicks, scrapes and nail holes that may occur over time.
If the touch up area is larger than the size of a dime, the use of ColorPlus® Touch-up Kit is NOT recommended. It is advised to replace the damage siding with a new section of ColorPlus® siding*.

NewPrimed ProductsIf your James Hardie siding was originally painted after it was installed on your home, then check the original paint manufacturer’s recommendations for reapplication of paint.
NOTE: Do not use stains or oil-based/alkyd paints on James Hardie products. For additional information on finishing James Hardie products, download Technical Bulletin #22.

NeFiber Cement Siding Repair or PatchingRe-applying caulking when it has begun to show signs of wear can help keep moisture from getting into the wall cavity. These areas include, but not limited to, penetrations, flashings, plank and trim connections, and in some cases, between plank joints.
NOTE: James Hardie recommends the use of caulks and sealants that remain permanently flexible. Look for the words “permanently flexible” written clearly on the label or in the accompanying literature. For best results, use an Elastomeric Joint Sealant complying with ASTM C920 Grade NS, Class 25 or higher, or a Latex Joint Sealant complying with ASTM C834. Caulking/sealant must be applied in accordance with the caulking/sealant manufacturer’s written instructions or ASTM C1193.
Dents, chips, cracks and other minor surface damage in James Hardie siding and trim products can be filled with cementitious patching compound. Refer to manufacturer’s recommendations for products that are compatible with fiber cement.

Source: James Hardie

8 Common Roof Types

Thu, 14 Jan 2021 01:57:00 GMT

Roof Designs, Shapes & Styles - Work with a local roofing expert!

ROOF TYPES If you’re getting a new roof or building an addition on your home that requires extra roof space, then you may want to familiarize yourself with some of the most common roof designs and how they impact your choice of roofing materials.

Roof Designs, Shapes & Styles

Depending on a home’s architecture, a roof can potentially make up 40% of the exterior, often playing a big role in its overall look and curb appeal. So, when the time comes to install a new roof, you’ll want to pick roofing materials and shingle colors that work well with the shape and slope of your roof, as well as complement your home’s exterior design.

Understanding the potential performance and design impact of different roof shapes and slopes can help you decide which shingles and roofing materials are best for your home from both a performance and an aesthetic point of view.

Common Roof Types and Styles

Pro Tip: Owens Corning® roofing shingles work on nearly all types of roof designs, provided the roof slope meets the minimum requirements outlined. From three-tab to architectural shingles, Owens Corning® offers various types of roofing shingles in a wide range of colors that complement any roof style and home exterior, and are durable to help protect your home from the elements. You can “try on” different roofing shingles and colors using our Design EyeQ® Visualizer to see which products and colors you like best for your home and roof type.

Roof Slope

The slope of your roof has both a practical and aesthetic function. Water from rain or snow, for example, tends to shed, or run off, quicker on a steep slope roof. The roof’s slope is expressed in a ratio based on the roof’s proportions.

Roofing contractors may use the term 6 in 12 or use a contracted version such as 6:12 or 6/12. What this means is that the roof rises 6 inches vertically for every 12 inches (or 1 foot) horizontally. This can easily be translated for any number. A roof with a 4 in 12 slope will rise four inches vertically and 12 inches horizontally.

From flat grades to steep inclines, your home’s roof slope can help create an interesting silhouette.

As you’re choosing roofing materials, keep in mind that the steeper the slope, the more visible your roof’s surface is from the ground, potentially creating an even greater impact on the exterior design aesthetics of your home.

Most homeowners can leave these calculations to their roofing contractor. However, it’s important to know that the International Residential Code has specific minimum slope requirements for all roof coverings, including asphalt roofing shingles. Your roofing contractor can help you select the right choice for your slope.

Although some roof styles are traditionally built with a certain slope, it’s not a hard and fast rule.

8 Common Roof Types

Gable Roof

Think back to your first crayon drawing of a home. Chances are you drew a gable roof. It’s basically a triangle with the base resting atop the house and the two sides rising to meet the ridge. Slopes can vary drastically on the gable roof from steep chalet-style designs to rooftops with a gentle grade.

The gable is an extremely popular roof style, and it works well on a variety of home designs. You can fancy it up with front gables over your entryways or go with a crossed gable design that consists of two ridges set at right angles.

Clipped Gable Roof

The clipped gable roof goes by several names, including bullnose. Clipped gable roofs are designed with the basic shape of a gable, with two sides rising to meet a ridge, but then borrow an element from hip roofs: the top peaks are “bent in,” creating small hips at the ends of the roof ridge.

New These hips provide an interesting architectural detail to homes and help showcase high-performance, designer shingles.

Dutch Gable Roof

The Dutch gable roof is another combination style roof that uses design elements of both gable and hip roofs. A miniature gable roof, or “gablet”, is perched atop a traditional hip roof.

The gable portion provides homeowners with increased attic space and can even be fitted with windows for added sunlight.

Gambrel Roof

Picture a classic red barn with white trim, and you’ve just envisioned a gambrel roof. Its two sides have two slopes each, one steep and one gentle. The design permits the use of the upper floor either as an attic room or loft. Adding windows to the sides of the gambrel roof can bring natural light in and increase the use of the upper story.

The steep sections of gambrel roofs are very visible, so homeowners should carefully consider the appearance of their roofing shingles.

Hip Roof

A traditional hip roof consists of four equal-length slopes that meet to form a simple ridge. There are variations, though, such as a half-hip that features two shorter sides with eaves.

If you have a hip roof, then you may have already realized that most of the roof is visible when looking at your house. The type and color of roofing shingles you get installed on a hip roof will make up a big piece of your home’s overall exterior look because it is so highly visible.

Mansard Roof

The Louvre Museum in Paris is an excellent example of the mansard roof, which takes its classic shape from French architecture. This four-sided design with double slopes has very steep lower slopes, which can be flat or curved.

Although the mansard roof originated in France , it quickly became popular in the United States. The style lets homeowners make full use of the upper story with an abundance of interior attic space and multiple windows, and it looks especially appealing when dormers are added.Pro Tip: Opting for architectural shingles in a slate-like shape, like Owens Corning® Berkshire® shingles , can enhance this roof design’s old-world aesthetic even more.

Shed Roof

If you favor modern home designs, you’ll likely appreciate a shed roof. This “lean-to” style resembles half of a traditional gable. While it’s long been used for porches and additions, the shed roof now graces the entire structure on ultra-modern builds. Most shed roofs tend to have lower slopes, with 4 in 12 and below most common, although steeper slopes will speed up water runoff.

Homes with shed roofs tend to be unique structures that reflect their owners’ style and personality. Shed roofs allow for some interesting window placement opportunities, from small rows of glass panes directly beneath the roof to large picture windows across the front of the house.

Flat Roof (Low Slope Roof)

When most people think of flat roofs, strip malls and industrial complexes often come to mind. However, during the period between 1945 and 1970, many mid-century modern architects experimented with flat rooflines creating dream homes for movie stars and wealthy businessmen. Flat roofs matched the look of the period, blending with the environment and providing large open floor plans. Some homes feature a limited flat surface area with the rest of the roof having a gable or hip design. Additionally, some home additions may use a flat roof to provide extra second floor living space.

Keep in mind flat doesn’t really mean flat —there needs to be some incline to allow for water drainage.Pro Tip: Flat roofs (low-slope) are particularly vulnerable to leaks, so they must be thoroughly waterproofed and topped with an appropriate material, such as a self-adhered, multi-ply, SBS modified bitumen membrane system , a PVC, TPO or rubber membrane.

How to Choose Roofing Shingles for Your Type of Roof Style?

We’ve given you a breakdown of common roof shapes, which also have a variety of sub-types that can be joined together in combination styles. Making the right shingle selection is up to you.Drive through neighborhoods, browse houses online, and look through magazines to find a roof style and color that reflects your dream house.

Consider your neighborhood. You’ll have the choice to blend into your surroundings or stand out — it depends on your personality and exterior design goals.

Additionally, there may be building codes or HOA restrictions that limit your options, so be sure to do your research before starting any project.

Owens Corning® roofing shingles can be used on all roof types, with limited exceptions to certain roof slopes. Use roof color and design tools from Owens Corning to see what your roof could look like in a variety of shingle styles and colors and help you coordinate the roof with your home’s exterior.

For all of your roof replacement needs in Columbus, Ohio, call us for a free estimate! We will help you choose the best roofing shingles for your home!

Source: Owens Corning

7 Signs It`s Time to Replce Your Siding

Mon, 11 Jan 2021 02:46:00 GMT

Siding is one of the most visible parts of your home.

Siding is your home’s first line of defense against damaging weather and pests. It’s also one of the most visible parts of your house, so when it fails to do its job, it fails to look the part.

How do you know when to replace your siding? Here are seven signs that can help you recognize when it’s time.

EXCESSIVE MAINTENANCE

LOOSE OR MISSING SIDING

PEST DAMAGE

COLOR FADING

BUCKLED, CRACKED, SAGGING OR WARPED SIDING

ROT

FINISH THAT’S BUBBLING OR BLISTERING

HOW LONG DOES SIDING LAST?

When you’re ready, the next step is to call us for a free estimate and to get help with your project.

Source: James Hardie

Choosing Replacement Windows

Fri, 08 Jan 2021 02:44:00 GMT

Quality & Maintenance Matters!

Is it time to replace your windows? New windows can be a game changer for your home, both aesthetically and functionally. They enhance your home’s architectural appeal, improve your home’s comfort, and save you money on energy bills due to their energy efficiency. Not to mention, new windows will increase the value of your home if you’re planning to sell in the future. Buying new windows isn’t something you do often, so if you’re wondering what to look for in replacement windows, we’ve got you covered. The best windows will provide beautiful natural light for your home, while increasing security and blocking out window drafts and UV rays. Here are tips on how to choose replacement windows:

Quality Craftsmanship

If you’re spending money on new windows, you might as well invest in ones that are excellently crafted. Look for replacement windows that have weather-tight construction and ensure they’ve been fusion-welded for strength and durability. You’ll also want to choose windows that are energy efficient to keep your energy costs low, as well as block outside noise and harmful UV rays.

Cleaning and Maintenance

When choosing replacement windows, consider how often they’ll need to be cleaned and maintained. Many people today live very busy lifestyles and the last thing they want to worry about is maintaining their windows. How often you need to clean and maintain your windows depends on the window material and style. Vinyl is one of the easiest materials to maintain, whereas wood windows require more maintenance due to the need for sanding and repainting.

Scenic Highlights

Replacing your windows gives you the opportunity to highlight different areas around your home. Do you have striking scenery in your backyard? Consider a large, custom designed statement window at the back of your home that highlights the scenic view. Windows give you the opportunity to bring the outdoors in. Take advantage by using windows to accentuate the best features of your landscape.

Cool It Down

A full wall of windows that reach from the floor to the ceiling is another way to bring the outdoors in and enjoy as much sunshine as possible. The downside? All that sunshine can make your room overly warm and can fade furnishings. Look for windows with low-emissivity coating. Low-e coating is a transparent metallic coating that minimizes the amount of infrared and ultraviolet light that comes through your glass. It keeps the sun from burning up your room and fading your furniture.

If it’s time to replace your windows, consider these tips to ensure you get the best replacement windows possible for your home. They should enhance your interior and exterior aesthetic while providing security, energy savings and interior comfort.

Call us for your window replacement in Columbus Ohio. (614) 239-7663

Source: MHSD

Home Siding Terminology 101

Thu, 31 Dec 2020 02:59:00 GMT

HOW TO TALK ABOUT A SIDING PROJECT LIKE A PRO

The world of architecture, exterior design, and construction can throw an awful lot of unfamiliar vocabulary your way. By getting to know your fascia from your friezes, you can begin to speak the same language as your contractor or builder, which may help your siding project go that much smoother.

Use this list for answers to frequently asked questions about common siding terminology so you can start to speak like a pro.

WHAT ARE BATTENS?

As pictured above. Battens are vertical trim strips placed on panel siding at regular intervals to cover joints and create an architectural aesthetic. Battens are a critical part of the farmhouse look.

WHAT IS FASCIA?

A fascia is a band that runs horizontally under the edge of a roof. On a house, it is the fascia that usually caps the ends of rafters and sometimes holds the gutter.

WHAT IS A FRIEZE?

A frieze is an ornamental, horizontal band that appears on the exterior walls of a building or house, usually near the roofline.

WHAT ARE GABLES?

A gable is the generally triangular portion of a wall between the edges of a dual-pitched roof.

WHAT IS HOUSE WRAP? House wrap, or weather barrier, covers a structure’s exterior prior to siding installation. It prevents rain from getting into the walls, while allowing water vapor to escape. James Hardie offers several HardieWrap® weather barrier products that work well with our siding products.

WHAT IS LAP SIDING? One of the most popular siding styles, lap siding, also called clapboard, is any type of siding installed horizontally on your home. The boards are installed from the bottom up so they overlap each other. This type of siding can come in many different textures and colors .

WHAT IS PANEL SIDING?

Panel siding is long, tall boards that come in a variety of textures. This type of siding is commonly used with batten strips, but it can also be used on its own. Explore the versatility of HardiePanel® Vertical Siding in more detail.

WHAT IS SHINGLE SIDING?

Traditionally, shingle siding, sometimes also called shake siding, is individual cuts of wood of varying widths. Modern shingle siding comes in materials such as low maintenance fiber cement and is often manufactured in panels, which helps make it easier to install while maintaining the traditional aesthetic.

WHAT IS SIDING EXPOSURE?

Sometimes referred to as the reveal, siding exposure is the visible space between the bottoms of adjacent rows of siding. This term is most frequently used when describing lap siding. Exposure differs from the total height of your siding planks because rows of siding will slightly overlap each other during installation.

WHAT IS SOFFIT?

The soffit is the underside of any construction element. The word is also used to describe the material used to cover the exposed surface beneath the overhang of a roof. James Hardie’s HardieSoffit® Panels come in a range of textures and venting options, which you can explore here .

WHAT IS BLIND AND FACE NAILING?

There are two general ways to secure lap siding to the wall -- blind and face nailing. Blind nailing is when the fastener drives through the top of the plank, while in face nailing the fastener drives through the overlap at the bottom of the plank. James Hardie recommends blind nailing, but face nailing may be required for certain installations.

For all of your home siding replacement needs in Columbus, Ohio, call us at (614) 249-7663 for a free estimate.

Source: JameHardie

Getting a New Roof During Covid Pandemic

Thu, 24 Dec 2020 03:50:00 GMT

GETTING A NEW ROOF OR ROOF REPAIR DURING COVID-19

Can you get a new roof or roof repair during COVID-19? In most cases, the answer is yes – although it depends on where you live because the coronavirus restrictions and orders vary by state and may even vary at the county-level.

COVID-19 and the resulting social restrictions have closed some industries and changed the way others operate. Roofing falls within the construction category and therefore is considered an essential business. Roofs are critical to keeping residential and commercial buildings weathertight and safe, including single-family homes.

To best serve their customers, roofing contractors have transitioned to digital or online technology to manage the upfront aspects of roof installation and repair.

Find out more about how you can get a new roof or roof repair during the coronavirus pandemic while following social distancing rules and local, state, and federal guidelines.

Why You Shouldn’t Delay Roof Repair or Replacement

Your roof plays a critical role in helping to protect your home from the elements. If you need a new roof or roof repair, it is important to get that work done as soon as possible to help prevent other issues or severe damage to your home, such as:

Persistent leaks
Water damage, either seen or unseen
Mold

Ask your roofing contractor about their financing options and safety protocols, including how they are disinfecting tools, vehicles, work attire, and other equipment.

While individual roofing contractors are likely to have their own protocol, in general, contractors should be following safety measures outlined by the following governmental organizations:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
World Health Organization
Occupational Safety and Health Administration

Safety measures may vary depending on the roofing contractor you choose, but they could include all or some of the following recommendations:

Compliance with Recommendations from Health and Safety Organizations: Both the CDC and WHO have recommended people stay home from work if they’re not feeling well, and the contractor you hire should be abiding by these recommendations as well.
Social Distancing: The CDC recommends keeping a minimum distance of six feet between yourself and another person when out in public or while working on the job. And for roofing repairs or replacements, nearly all the work is done outside of your home, so you don’t have to worry about running into a crew member while work is being completed. If interior access is needed to inspect the attic ventilation or the roof deck, you can draw up guidelines with your roofing contractor to avoid the roofers coming into contact with household members.
Digital transactions: Paying for your roofing contractor’s services using digital transactions and receipts minimizes person-to-person contact during estimates, roofing work, and other inspections.

7 Steps to Hire a Roofing Contractor Without Meeting In-Person

Believe it or not, the entire process of hiring a contractor, getting an estimate for a roof repair or replacement, and even picking out roofing shingles can all be done online and over the telephone, preventing you from ever having to leave your home.

Here’s how you can find, hire, and work with a roofing contractor remotely:

Research roofing contractors online. Independent roofing contractors in the Owens Corning Roofing Contractor Network (OCCN) with the “No-Contact Service” badge on their listing indicates that they can work with you remotely for some or all services.
Contact a roofing contractor online via email, chat, or text or call to schedule a virtual appointment.
During your appointment, ask questions about estimates, costs, and the repair or replacement process. You can always ask for additional info via email, text, phone, or video chat sessions. Use this checklist to help guide your decision-making process on which roofing contractor to hire.
To provide an estimate, a roofer needs to know the dimensions of your roof. Roofing contractors can use satellite technology to take your roof measurements so there is no need for anyone to come out to your home.
If necessary, you can provide your roofing contractor with photos or videos of roof damage or areas that need repair via email, chat, or text. Please only take pictures or videos from the ground or a convenient window. For the safety of the homeowner, a direct roof inspection is never recommended.
Once the contractor has everything they need to provide an estimate, they can email or text it to you to review from the comfort of your own home.
Finally, all paperwork, project scheduling, and payment can be completed easily and securely through electronic platforms.

How to Pick Roofing Shingles Online

When it comes time to select new shingles for your roof, you can do so from the comfort of your home.

On the Owens Corning Roofing website, for example, you can easily:

Research various roofing products, such as architectural shingles and synthetic underlayment
Browse different roofing shingle styles and colors
Discover exterior design inspiration

Use Online Visualizations Tools Like DesignEyeQ®

If you’re not sure where to start when it comes to selecting shingle colors and types, you can use visualization tools, such as DesignEyeQ® from Owens Corning Roofing.

Start by uploading a photo of your house or select a house that looks like yours from our library of photos.

Next, you can start choosing shingle types and colors, and the visualizer shows you how that design might look on your house. Use the tool to change the front door, window and house trim, garage door, and windows to match your home’s color scheme so you can coordinate color choices properly.

Get Roof Shingle Samples by Mail

Once you’ve narrowed down your choice, you can request free printed color samples. Each sample is 12 x 24-inches, so you can get a true picture of the color and definition of your shingles. Select up to five samples per order and only pay for shipping and handling.

Once you’ve made your final choices, you can share and discuss them remotely with your roofing contractor. Choosing roofing shingles can be both exciting and satisfying when you use convenient visualizer tools and printed samples from Owens Corning.

Drive by Homes in Your Area

You can ask your contractor for a list of houses they have recently reroofed in the same or similar shingle colors that you’re interested in so you can drive by and see what the roof shingles look like on a real home. Before leaving your home, however, be sure to check your local guidelines concerning stay-at-home orders as this may or may not be permitted in your area.

Choosing a Roofing System

Build Your Roof™ You can pick all the layers of your roofing system using our Build Your Roof™ digital tool, from synthetic underlayment to shingles and type of ventilation. If you prefer to go through this process with a contractor, you can ask your contractor to set up a phone or video call and then go through the Build Your Roof™ experience together.

Installing or Repairing the Roof

When it comes time to start roofing work, contractors may not need to come into your home at all. Once all the plans and estimates are in place, the roof repair or replacement can be completed outside, and you shouldn’t have to interact with anyone. Should any of the roofers need access to the attic, they can give you advanced notice, so you can clear a pathway and keep all family members out of the way.

You can ask your contractor to call or text you when they arrive onsite and maybe give them a smile and a wave from the window. Any questions or conversations that need to happen during the work can be done safely by phone or text.

These measures can help ensure that you and your family, along with your roofing contractor and their crew stay healthy and safe during this time.

Don’t let the coronavirus delay a much-needed roof replacement or roof repair. Find an independent roofing contractor in the Owens Corning Roofing Contractor Network near you.

CALL US FOR YOUR ROOF REPLACEMENT AT (614) 239-7663

The Anatomy of a Roof

Fri, 18 Dec 2020 12:00:00 GMT

What are the common parts of a roof?

Not sure what makes up a roof besides shingles? Use our numbered roof diagram to familiarize yourself with the common parts of a roof and its layers so you can confidently communicate with your roofing contractor during your next roofing project.

1) Roof Ridge: The roof ridge, or ridge of a roof is the horizontal line running the length of the roof where the two roof planes meet. This intersection creates the highest point on a roof, sometimes referred to as the peak. Hip and ridge shingles are specifically designed for this part of a roof.

2) Ridge vent: A ridge vent is an exhaust vent that runs horizontally along the peak of the roof allowing warm, humid air to escape from the attic. Use our ventilation calculator to calculate your attic ventilation requirements and determine how much exhaust ventilation you would need to properly ventilate your roof and attic.

3) Flashing: Flashing is a metal material installed at joint openings, around chimneys, and any dormer windows or skylights to help prevent water intrusion. You may recognize flashing as metal stair steps alongside a chimney or side walls on a roof.

4) Hip: The hip on a roof is the intersection of two roof planes that meet to form a sloping ridge running from the peak to the eave. Hip and ridge shingles are specifically designed for this part of a roof.

5) Roof Deck: The roof deck is the structural foundation base for the roof system and is usually made of wood or plywood.

6) Roofing Underlayment: Roofing underlayment is a layer of material, usually synthetic or felt, that adds extra protection on top of the roof deck and under the shingles. Synthetic underlayment helps repel moisture and provides protection against water infiltration. Synthetic underlayment is becoming a popular material choice over felt due to proven water-resistance performance and long-lasting durability.

7) Roof Valley: The roof valley is the V-shaped intersection between two sloping roofs joining at an angle to provide water runoff.

8) Laminated Architectural Shingles: Laminated architectural asphalt shingles contain more than one layer of tabs to add dimension, performance and durability to a roof. Architectural shingles are sometimes referred to as three-dimensional shingles or laminated shingles. The opposite of architectural shingles are three-tab shingles, which are produced as a single layer of tabs and appear flat or without the dimension of a laminated shingle.

9) Roof Gable: A roof gable is the triangular section of the outer wall at the peak of the roof between a sloping roof and eave. A roof gable is sometimes referred to as a rake.

10) Metal drip edge: Metal drip edge is a narrow strip of noncorrosive metal used at the rake and eave to help manage dripping water by facilitating water runoff to protect the underlying section of a wall.

11) Dormer: A dormer is a raised section of the roof. Dormers commonly contain a window that projects vertically through the slope in the roof.

12) Ice and water barrier: An ice and water barrier is a self-adhered waterproofing material installed along eaves, valleys, side walls, and other sensitive areas to protect against ice damage and wind-driven rain.

13) Eave: An eave is the lower border of the roof that overhangs the wall usually located in the first three feet of a roof.

14) Undereave vent: Undereave vents are intake vents located under the eaves of the roof that help draw cool dry air into the attic. Again, you can use our ventilation calculator to calculate your attic ventilation requirements and determine how much intake ventilation you would need to properly ventilate your roof and attic.

Now that you’re familiar with the basic anatomy of a roof, you’ll start to notice dormers and gables everywhere you turn. More important, you’ll be equipped to have an informed conversation with your roofing contractor when the time comes for you to get a new roof.

To learn more about roof layers and components that make up a complete roofing system, call us for a consultation at (614) 239-7663.

Source: Owens Corning

Essential Elements of Contemporary & Modern Home Design

Mon, 14 Dec 2020 03:21:00 GMT

MODERN VS. CONTEMPORARY HOUSE DESIGN

When you’re looking at contemporary or modern house designs, you may notice these two terms are often used interchangeably. While the words are listed in the thesaurus as synonyms, the associated styles are not the same thing and differ in meaningful ways.

Contemporary and modern house architecture have rich histories and both styles can be used to produce incredible homes. However, if you want a contemporary house, but ask for a modern house (or vice versa), it might not be what you had in mind. Here’s everything you need to know about modern and contemporary design for your new home or renovation.

MODERN VS. CONTEMPORARY HOUSE DESIGN

Modern design refers to an architectural style from the early- to mid-20th century. Designers and architects, like Mies van der Rohe, pioneered it during the pre-World War II years and it exploded in popularity in North America during the 1950s. That’s when modern exteriors were widely adopted in the residential space.

On the other hand, contemporary design is what’s emerging right now. The style is constantly evolving and hasn’t been done before.

Think about it this way: During its beginning, modern design would have been considered contemporary.

MODERN HOUSE DESIGN ELEMENTS

Many people will recognize modern design because of its popularity in the 1950s and 1960s. The style shows up in television shows, movies, and in real life (many structures built in this era are still in use today).

How do you know if a home design is modern? The style can be characterized by a few common elements, including:

- Utilitarian materials such as glass, steel, reinforced concrete, wood, along with their modern equivalents, like fiber cement materials.

- Flat and expansive, or dramatically angled roofs.

- A minimalist philosophy, famously defined by van der Rohe as “less is more.”

For modern house exteriors that means geometric proportions, large windows, and little to no interior or exterior ornamentation. Today, a home is “modern” if the design closely follows these principles of the original modernist style.

MODERN HOUSE DESIGN EXAMPLES

CONTEMPORARY HOUSE DESIGN ELEMENTS

The constantly evolving nature of contemporary design means the style can include many elements and take many different forms. This type of design is not locked into any particular style or shape – it’s pure creation. However, it can still borrow elements from traditional architecture.

Contemporary home design — whatever it may be in this moment — is all about what’s happening now. As a homeowner, embracing contemporary design means you and your design team have near-infinite room to experiment.

WHY ARE MODERN AND CONTEMPORARY USED INTERCHANGEABLY?

Most designs styles are built from past eras and stem from classic architectural forms. Those rules, including commonly agreed upon principles of proportion and scale, have stood the test of time because they lead to spaces that feel good to be in.
Modern design — with its wide, open, light-filled rooms — results in homes many people feel great living in. It’s why the style remains popular today, and why contemporary designers frequently rely upon modern design principles to create something new.
The modern farmhouse style is a recent, and widely embraced, example. It’s popular because it blends comforting feelings with freshness and modern architecture. This is known in the design community as “transitional style.”

HOW TO ACHIEVE A MODERN OR CONTEMPORARY EXTERIOR

Using a variety of exterior materials is a great way to incorporate modern or contemporary design into your home. This practice adds definition and visual texture, without being over the top or too futuristic.
James Hardie® fiber cement siding products are perfect for these styles – particularly in the smooth texture. HardiePanel® vertical siding can be applied in a minimalist fashion, which is a hallmark of modern (and some contemporary) designs.
You might also consider any of the premium products in the Aspyre Collection by James Hardie®. Artisan® lap siding can be applied with mitered corners, which results in a sleek finished look. And, the Reveal® panel system offers a variety of style and orientation options.
Get inspired to design your own modern or contemporary home by viewing homes in these styles in our house siding ideas gallery.

CONTEMPORARY DESIGN EXAMPLES:Source: Jame Hardie

How to Choose Windows That WOW!

Mon, 07 Dec 2020 04:16:00 GMT

New Windows enhance your curb appeal and improve energy efficiency.

Windows enhance your curb appeal, improve energy efficiency and increase the value of your home, all while adding beautiful, natural light to your interior. With all these benefits in mind, it’s no wonder shopping for new windows can be daunting.

Windows should be replaced every 15 to 30 years, depending on the quality of the window materials and installation. If it’s time for a window replacement or upgrade, choose new windows that check all the important boxes mentioned above. They should add architectural interest while improving home comfort and energy efficiency.

To help in your quest, follow our tips for choosing windows that wow!

Determine Your Home Style

Before choosing your windows, it’s important to identify the architectural style of your home. Whether traditional or modern, craftsman or colonial, be sure to choose windows that suit your home style so they don’t look out of place. Certain windows styles are often associated with defined architectural styles. For example, colonial and craftsman style homes typically have double hung windows. A renovation professional can help you choose the perfect windows based on your home’s architectural style.

Decide on Your Materia l

Several options are available to choose from when it comes to window materials. Vinyl replacement windows are most popular as they offer modern beauty, performance and energy efficiency, all at a reasonable price point. You get quality, durability and increased comfort with exceptional beauty and style. Aluminum windows are another durable and stylish option. They’re environmentally friendly and can lower energy costs. Wood windows offer a beautiful, timeless look, but are more expensive and require more maintenance and upkeep than other materials.

Choose Your Window Style

The most popular window styles include single- and double-hung windows; casement windows; awning windows; sliding windows; and bay, bow and box windows. The style of windows you choose affects both the exterior and interior aesthetic of your home, the airflow in your home and ease of maintenance. Match your window style with your architectural style for a beautiful home that wows.

Extend Your Living Space

One of the most amazing things about windows is they blend the indoors and outdoors, allowing you to enjoy nature while inside your home. Beautiful sliding patio doors are an excellent way to extend your living space, offering a seamless transition from inside out. They’ll expand and brighten every room, adding more light to your home all year round.

Consider Window Placement

If you’re doing a home renovation and are deciding where to place your windows, make sure to consider the directions your windows will face to maximize natural light and cross-ventilation. When planned correctly, your windows allow you to enjoy your property’s ambiance and air flow when the windows are open. Assess your surroundings to determine where the sunlight falls, and make sure you have a good natural light source in every room. If possible, position your windows to focus on the best possible sightlines, and try placing windows on opposing walls so air can be carried straight through your home, providing an ideal source of ventilation.

New windows can increase your home’s value, improve energy efficiency and lower your energy bills. Use our tips to choose the perfect new windows for your home.

For all of your home window replacement in Central Ohio, call us at (614) 239-7663.

Source: MHSD

The Homeowner`s guide to Exterior Renovations

Mon, 30 Nov 2020 00:31:00 GMT

How New Siding Can Enhance Your Home!

Whether you’re a brand new homeowner, or have owned for years, at some point it’s likely you’ll find yourself considering a complete (or partial) exterior renovation. While it may seem a bit daunting at first, this can be one of the most exciting parts of being a homeowner. After all, this is your chance to reshape your home exactly the way you want it.

There are plenty of projects you can undertake to update the outside of your home, but the one that will give you the most curb appeal (and one of the best bangs for your buck), is replacing your siding.

If you’re thinking about starting your exterior renovation, these resources can help you along (almost) every step of the way.

Signs It’s Time To Replace Your Siding

While it may just be time for an update, you may also need to replace your siding out of necessity. This article has seven signs to look for that may indicate your current siding is at the end of its life and needs to go.

What Is Fiber Cement Siding?

If you’ve decided to replace your siding, you’ll need to select a material. James Hardie® fiber cement siding is a long-lasting choice that also gives you nearly unlimited design options.

Siding Terminology

House wrap, vertical siding, battens, fascia, exposure and reveal, blind and face nailing – these are all technical and building terms that you’ll likely hear during your project. Use this article for answers to frequently asked questions about common siding terminology so you can start to speak like a pro.

Home Exterior Makeovers to Inspire Your Project

Explore this article to see what’s possible for your project. While there are plenty of steps between the “before” and the “after” pictures, these five exterior makeover stories will give you a good idea of what to expect at the end of the road.

Exterior Home Design Idea Center

Explore various exterior color combinations, find tips for coordinating your exterior elements (like your siding with your shutters and roof), and discover some expert color design tips. The design idea center has everything you need to spark your inspiration.

What to Expect During Your Siding Replacement Project

Once you’ve reached this point, your project starts to get real and it’s time to get excited. While no two jobs are exactly the same, there are some steps that nearly all siding replacement projects have in common. You’ll find all of those here.

Tips For Maintaining Your James Hardie Siding

You won’t have much to do. James Hardie siding doesn’t need a lot from you to look good over the long haul. In fact, you’ll typically only need a soft brush, mild soap and a garden hose for annual cleanings.

If you’re all set on siding, consider renovating other parts of your exterior. Two visually striking projects to consider are overhauling your landscaping elements, or changing the color of your front door. As any homeowner knows, you’re never short of projects big or small to tackle. But every ounce of effort makes a house feel more like your home.

For all of your home siding replacement needs, call us at (614) 239-7663.

Source: JamesHardie

Replacing Vinyl Windows

Mon, 23 Nov 2020 10:30:00 GMT

What to Consider When Replacing Vinyl Windows

Benefits of Vinyl Replacement Windows

Versatility

Energy Efficiency & Water Management

Maintenance

For your home window replacement in Columbus Ohio, call us at (614) 239-7663.

Source: MyHomeStyleDesigns

How to Choose Between Siding and Stone

Sat, 21 Nov 2020 12:30:00 GMT

Outfitting your exterior with new cladding is a big decision. Not only is exterior cladding an important part of your home’s aesthetic, it also provides protection, comfort and insulation for your home. It’s important that it fits both your style and lifestyle, offering minimal maintenance so that once it’s installed, you don’t have to think twice about it.

Installing new siding is a smart investment that will increase the value of your home, but there are numerous things to consider before choosing a siding material. Some of the most popular cladding choices today are vinyl siding, composite cladding and stone or stone veneer. Each has their own characteristic, and it’s up to you to determine which is best suited for your home. A brand new cladding material will boost your curb appeal and make you the envy of all your neighbors! Here’s how to choose between stone and siding.

Vinyl Siding

Vinyl siding is the most popular exterior cladding in North America. It blends handcrafted beauty with modern technology and is friendlier on the environment than many other cladding products. Known for its durability, easy upkeep and great value, there’s no guessing why vinyl siding makes its way on so many home exteriors. With vinyl siding, you get high quality and performance that fits many homeowners’ lifestyles and budgets. It’s well insulated and is known for its superior performance in all weather conditions.

Composite Cladding

Composite cladding is another great option growing in popularity. ASCEND Composite Cladding by Alside is a first-of-its-kind solution that combines beauty, performance and ease of installation for the best overall value on the market. It features the deeply grained look of real wood and sustains its beauty for years to come. Unlike fiber cement and engineered wood, it requires minimal maintenance, and its self-aligning stack lock enables quick installation. With a color palette of 20 shades ranging from timeless to trendy, you can outfit your exterior with ASCEND cladding however you see fit.

Stone and Stone Veneer

Stone and stone veneer options offer natural beauty to your home exterior. While they’re quite durable and add texture to your home, they also cost more than other cladding options, especially if you opt for real stone. You’ll most likely need to hire a specialty mason to install the stone cladding, which comes at a significant cost. If it’s not installed correctly, you may end up with cracks that are hard to fix. If the cracks aren’t fixed promptly, moisture can seep into them and cause mold issues that can ruin the structure of your home. Both options are an investment that you should consider carefully.

If you’re considering new cladding for your home, consider the pros and cons of each of these siding options to make the best decision for you and your family. New cladding will completely transform your home, giving you the chance to increase your curb appeal while improving comfort and insulation. Choose wisely!

For your home siding replacement in Columbus, Ohio, call Ohio Exteriors at (614) 239-7663

Source: Alside/MHSD

Choosing the Right Windows for Your Home is an Important Step

Tue, 17 Nov 2020 12:45:00 GMT

Choosing the right windows for your home is an important step in a remodel project. Good windows provide enhanced home security, improve home comfort and energy efficiency, and elevate your curb appeal, all increasing your home’s value.

When it comes to kids’ rooms, it’s important to ensure windows are both comfortable and stylish. The windows need to match those in the rest of your home, but the choice deserves a little extra attention. Here are 4 things to keep in mind when choosing the best windows for a kid’s room.

1. Energy Efficiency

If you’re replacing the windows or skylights in your kids’ rooms, make sure to invest in windows that are energy efficient. Not only will this cut energy costs, it will also regulate the temperature in the room, making the space more comfortable. Energy-efficient windows work to limit heat gain and heat loss, so you don’t have to worry about your kids being too hot or cold at night. Plus, highly insulated, energy-efficient windows will keep noise out so your kids can get a good night’s sleep.

2. Lock

Having windows that lock properly is of utmost importance for children’s rooms. You want to be able to open the windows for proper ventilation, but they also need to be secure. Further, you could opt for pin locks to enable the window to be partially open but unable to be adjusted by a child. This way, if your kids try to play with the windows, they won’t be able to open and close them, plus you’ll feel good knowing no one can enter from the outside.

3. Furniture Placement

Once you’ve chosen windows for your child’s room, make sure furniture such as the bed and dresser are positioned a safe distance away from them. If furniture is placed directly under a window, it could lead to safety risks as children may be tempted to climb up on the furniture near the window. It’s best to limit such risks and keep safety in mind with furniture placement.

4. Window Treatments

Once windows are installed, you may consider window treatments. Window blinds with cords are a major safety hazard in homes, especially in kids’ rooms where you’re not always present to supervise. Children can get caught in the cords, so it’s best to eliminate them altogether. Beyond safety, cord-free blackout curtains will help keep the room dark from night well into morning to help nurture kids’ sleep.

For all of your home windows replacement needs, call us at (614) 239-7663.

Source: Alside/MHSD

Siding and Roofing Color Trends

Fri, 13 Nov 2020 21:31:00 GMT

Sprucing up your exterior is just as important as upgrading your interior. It’s the first thing neighbors and guests see when they approach your home, and the curb appeal of your house influences what they think the inside will look like. If your exterior is beautiful and well maintained, it makes the whole home appear more welcoming.

Updating your roof and siding colors can give your exterior new life. It can transform your home’s style, and it will enhance your curb appeal for decades to come. Whether you’re doing an entire exterior remodel, or are re-siding or re-roofing your home, consider these tips to help you choose a siding and roof color combination you’ll love!

Contrasting Colors

Contrasting colors have historically been the way to go when it comes to siding and roofing combinations. In the past, there weren’t many roofing options, so it was difficult to perfectly match siding colors. Even with more options today, many homeowners still opt for a contrasting combination for their roof and siding colors. It gives you a more extensive range of material choices and can make your siding pop! For instance, if you have a black roof, crisp white siding makes for a stunning contrast, and if you opt for a grey roof, a soft blue siding is a subtle contrast that makes a big impact.

Complementing Colors

A newer trend in home exteriors is to match your roof and siding colors. Vinyl roofing, composite shingles and metal roofing are available in a variety of different colors, making it easier to find a shade that will match your preferred siding color. Matching colors is a striking way to make your home stand out. It’s not as common as contrasting siding and roof combinations, so you’re sure to turn heads. A black roof with black or dark gray cladding is bold and dramatic, making a major style statement, while gray on gray provides a more contemporary vibe. Incorporate a contrasting trim for a nice pop!

Matching Siding with Your Home’s Current Roof

If you’re planning to re-side your home and keep your current roof, a good way to match your siding color is to pair a warm color with another warm color, or a cool color with another cool color. Warm colors include oranges, yellows, browns, red and golds, and cool colors include greens, blues, whites and purples. Coordinating tones will result in an appealing color combination that’s stylish and classic, and contrasting tones will make for a more dramatic finish.

Matching a Roof with Your Home’s Current Siding

If your current siding is in tip-top shape, but you need to replace your roof, stick with a classic color such as black, brown, gray or red. Variations of these colors are available in different roofing materials, so you have many options to work with. Go lighter for a more minimal look, or darker for a more dramatic effect.

Use these tips to find a roof and siding color combination that will make you happy for years to come!

For all of your home siding replacement needs, call Ohio Exteriors at (614) 239-7663.

Source: Alside/MHSD

Which Entry Door Should You Choose, Steel or Fiberglass?

Mon, 09 Nov 2020 03:48:00 GMT

Steel or Fiberglass?

One of the most common questions we hear from homeowners is, “which entry door should I choose, steel or fiberglass”? The short answer is – it depends. The technology for both steel and fiberglass doors has come a long way, and typically either choice will deliver much better long-term performance than a traditional wood door, without the time-consuming maintenance. This means your choice truly depends on your personal taste, style and preferences. Here are some key factors to consider.

Fiberglass Entry Doors

The popularity of fiberglass entry doors continues to increase, and with good reason:

Beauty – Fiberglass doors most closely mimic the defined grain of traditional word doors and come in Smooth or a number of Wood Grain textures like Oak, Cherry, Mahogany, Knotty Alder and Fir, as well as a variety of stain, glazed and paint colors. Additionally, fiberglass doors offer many options for glass, including Decorative Door Glass, Simulated Divided Lites and Inspirations Art Glass, all of which improve curb appeal. All ProVia doors are custom-made to the size and style specifications of the buyer, to ensure the best fit.
Endurance – Unlike wood doors, fiberglass entry doors do not shrink, warp, split, crack or delaminate. They're ideal for harsh and humid climates. Because fiberglass doors last so long, many come with strong warranties. ProVia doors, for example, come with a Lifetime Limited Warranty that guarantees them throughout the entirety of the ownership of the home by the door purchaser, plus one subsequent homeowner. Paint, glazed and stain finishes are warranted for up to 10 years.
Energy Efficiency – Fiberglass entry door systems are engineered to be highly energy efficient. The polyurethane core, heat-resistant window trim, Q-Lon weather stripping and ComforTech Warm Edge Glazing System in ProVia entry doors work together to keep the cold out in winter and heat out in the summer. All ProVia entry doors without glass are ENERGY STAR® certified and many models with glass also meet ENERGY STAR standards.
Security – The solid construction of fiberglass entry doors provides significant security over wood doors.
Cost – Fiberglass doors are typically less expensive than a high-end wood door (depending on the model, glass options and hardware selected), and offer longer durability and far less maintenance.
Maintenance – Fiberglass entry doors offer low maintenance, resist denting and can be cleaned with mild soap and water.

ProVia offers three series of custom fiberglass entry doors that meet or exceed homeowners' expectations: Embarq, Signet and Heritage.

Steel Entry Doors

Steel entry doors remain popular with homeowners and are a solid choice for a variety of reasons:

Beauty – Steel entry doors are available in smooth or wood grain textures, in multiple stains and paint finishes, and come in a variety of door styles, including some with glass.
Durability – Steel doors, particularly those made of 20-gauge steel, like ProVia's Legacy Steel line, won't crack or warp and are the strongest, most durable doors available on the market.
Maintenance – Steel doors will offer low maintenance depending on the galvanization (rust prevention) and thickness of the steel. ProVia’s Legacy Steel doors come with a Lifetime Limited Warranty and a 7 year paint and stain warranty.
Energy Efficiency – Steel entry doors offer significantly more energy efficiency than wood doors. Efficiency ratings vary based on overall construction, but ProVia Legacy Steel doors are recognized as being highly energy efficient, with all doors without glass meeting ENERGY STAR certification. Depending on the glazing option chosen, many Legacy Steel entry doors with glass are also ENERGY STAR certified.
Security – Steel entry doors offer the best solution for owners concerned with building or home security. In some markets, steel doors are known to be a deterrent to would-be intruders.
Cost – Steel entry doors are very affordable compared to wood doors and offer significant long-term value. Total cost can vary widely depending on door styles and options chosen.

ProVia's Legacy Steel entry doors are custom built to owner specifications, ensuring a good fit. Door sizes up to 8-feet are available, along with glass and texture options (smooth or wood grain) and 7 stain and paint finishes.

Source: ProVia

Board and Batten Siding - Reasons Why You Will Love It!

Tue, 03 Nov 2020 12:30:00 GMT

Board & Batten Will Enhance Your Home!

What is beautifully crafted, fuses a traditional look with modern appeal, and presents itself as textured and elegant? Board and batten siding, of course!

Board and batten siding is popping up everywhere as homeowners are dreaming of new exteriors, tired of materials like brick and stucco covering their homes. The board and batten siding style originated in the early American era with barns and outhouses that didn’t need to be elegant or impressive, but had to be durable and low-maintenance. It makes sense why it’s become such a popular trend for homeowners as their lifestyles are increasingly busy, and they don’t have time to fuss on home maintenance.

Board and batten siding is a paneling style that pairs vertical planks (the boards) with smaller strips (the batten), which cover the joints between each plank to prevent leaking. It offers a traditional look for your home exterior with its rough-sawn texture but elegant hues and distinct color options. Board and batten siding reveals the best in performance innovation, as it’s durable and dent-resistant while presenting character, shadow lines throughout different times of the day, and an authentic-looking rustic or farmhouse home with vertical cladding.

4 Reasons Why You’ll Love It:

1. Simple Maintenance

Wood exteriors tend to rot and warp due to moisture, and stucco exteriors can chip and blister, especially if they have painted surfaces. Board and batten siding requires minimal upkeep with easy-care features such as no-paint touch-ups! All you need is a garden hose to wash away dirt and dust.

2. Easy to Color-Match

Board and batten siding presents opportunities for a personalized look because it can vary widely in color. Board and batten doesn’t need to be white, although it’s a classic and timeless design option. If you want to leave it white for a few years and change later on, you can with relative ease to suit changing trends in exterior paint colors.

3. It’s a Solid Investment

Board and batten siding is gaining popularity in exterior home design trends. Depending on the area you live in, it may already be trendy and spotted everywhere–and if it’s not yet, it will be soon. Homebuyers looking for curb appeal are attracted to board and batten siding due to its modern look and low-maintenance appeal.

4. It’s Versatile

Different features of board and batten siding can create different textured looks on your home exterior. For example, you can go with a board and batten siding with authentic features, proportioned 7″ profile with 5-1/2″ board and 1-1/2″ batten strip. You can also go with a light rough-sawn texture that features a low-gloss finish, giving your exterior a look of freshly painted wood. In addition, by adding dimensions to your board and batten, such as raised batten strips, it will further enhance the visual appeal of your exterior.

If you’re into the look of board and batten siding, now’s the time to try it! Upgrade the look of your home with a timeless exterior.

For all of your siding replacement needs, call us at (614) 239-7663.

Experience the difference!

www.OhioExteriors.com

Source: Alside - My Home Style Designs

Choosing the Right Roof Color for Your Home

Fri, 30 Oct 2020 20:59:00 GMT

Getting ready to reroof your home? When it’s time to replace your roof, you may also want to consider changing up your roof color.

Are there better color options than what you have on your roof right now that would enhance the overall exterior look of your home and potentially boost curb appeal? It’s easy to just pick the same roof color that you already have or that your roofing contractor suggests. However, a new roof is a big investment, and you might as well pick the roof color you really want so that your home feels like your home.

Already love your roof color? Great! Ask your contractor if the same, or a similar, shingle color is available with enhanced performance features if you’re looking to upgrade your roof’s durability.

Choosing the right color for your home begins with having the confidence to say you want something different.

Here are the top 10 tips from roofing industry experts that can help you get it right – from color to style – with your next roof.

1. Think of your roof as a canvas to express your personal style.

A roof typically accounts for about 40 percent of your home’s overall exterior. With a wide range of beautiful dimensional colors and styles available in today’s asphalt roofing shingle market, you can bring the same energy to designing your exterior that you do to your interior. Here is the list of the wide range of Owens Corning shingles available in your area.

2. Take the time to put your ideas into a mood board.

Just as any design project, your exterior has several elements — from window shutters and trim to siding or brick — that will get tied together with your roof. For additional inspiration and help narrowing down what colors will work for your home, explore versatile shingle and color pairings with online mood boards, or style boards. From trendy to classic, your mood board or style board combinations can help you discover the architectural aesthetic that makes the statement you want with your next roof.

3. Avoid feeling limited by what you already have on your roof – unless you love the color, of course!

When the time comes to replace your roof, take a moment to reconsider which color roofing shingles might improve your home’s overall look. While you may be tempted to play it safe and replace your current roof with the same exact shingle color, use this home exterior project as an opportunity to refresh your home’s appearance and boost its curb appeal.

4. Explore bold, high-contrast designer shingle options .

If bold dimensional color plays a big part of your personal style, then consider the same for your new roof. From bold and dynamic to subtle and classic, you can use color to help make a statement with your next roofing shingle color. Look no further than TruDefinition® Duration® Designer Colors Collection and our Shingle Color of the Year. With the right roofing shingle color, you can enhance your home’s exterior and complement its natural surroundings and design elements.

5. Compare the actual impact on cost if you want to upgrade your roofing shingles.

The actual cost difference between roofing shingle product lines may be less than you think, so moving up to an architectural shingle in a designer color could actually be within your budget. Of course, only a roofing contractor can give you an estimate that is based on the specific details for your home and the products you select. But getting the roof shingle you really want may only add a few extra hundred dollars to the total project cost.

Ask your contractor to show you the cost difference between the roofing shingle options you may be trying to decide between so you can make an informed decision about your new roof.

6. Communicate your roof color and style ideas with confidence.

There are many different options for roofing shingle styles and colors available, so don’t limit yourself. It’s completely acceptable to request additional large format shingle samples or to see more variety when working with your roofing contractor to find the right shingles for your home.

The best practice is to do your preliminary color selection using the manufacturer’s website, then ask the contractor to bring those sample colors. This eliminates back-and-forth and multiple appointments.

7. See the shingle color IRL (in real life).

Experts recommend checking out homes in your neighborhood with the same roofing shingle color installed. If you can find a home with a similar roofline and pitch, you’ll get an accurate sense of how the shingle color will look in natural lighting.

Ask your roofing contractor for a list of recommended homes so you can drive by and see the shingles in action at different times of the day and in different weather conditions.

8. Think big picture.

Shingle colors can have a chameleon effect once they are matched up to another color on the exterior. So, don’t focus too much on trying to match up your colors exactly—just know that the color granules will look different once they’re paired with another color. Take the sample board your contractor has brought and lean it against your exterior to view it from a distance to get a sense of how the granule colors will blend together for an overall effect once installed on the roof.

Or better yet, see #7 above.

9. Evaluate the impact of lighting.

The overall appearance of a roof can vary depending on the time of day and corresponding light. Take your samples outside in the morning, afternoon and evening to make sure you consistently like what you see before deciding on a favorite color.

10. Consider working with a home designer.

Unsure what color will match your yellow siding or red brick home? You can always hire a design professional with a trained eye to provide a second opinion. Often for a day rate, you can work together to find a roofing shingle color that will help you confidently tie together exterior design elements like siding, trim and paint colors.

But our guess is that you can do it successfully and confidently all on your own if you follow the above tips. Online visualization tools, like our DesignEyeQ®, can help you get a sense of what your home would look like with different combinations of roof colors, siding and trim colors.

Choosing your next roofing shingle color can be an enjoyable and satisfying experience. Think of your next roof as an opportunity to reimagine your home exterior design aesthetic.

Source: OwensCorning

Choose Your Contractor Wisely For Your Siding Replacement

Tue, 27 Oct 2020 22:34:00 GMT

At Ohio Exteriors, we are proud to be a family-owned, and faith-based business. As a licensed, insured and bonded contractor, we have been helping homeowners in Central Ohio since 2003.

We know one of the largest investments you will ever make is your home. Our mission is to ensure the work performed and the products used on your home are quality made, a good value, and enhances the appearance of your home. When you hire us for siding replacement, we only use the best quality materials and we only hire experienced people to work on your home. The owner, James Green, is personally involved in every job to guarantee the finest craftsmanship and that our company standards are maintained from start to finish.

Well-performing siding helps to give you peace of mind that your home stays in the best condition possible and to help improve or maintain your home value if you decide to sell your home in the future. Quality work and quality materials are crucial for keeping the cold out and the warmth in during the winter months and vice versa during the remainder of the year.

Good quality siding does more than enhance the appearance of your home, it helps to prevent water from entering through the walls and will improve your energy efficiency.

When is it time to replace your siding?

• If your siding is rotting or warping.

• If your siding has holes or is damaged.

• If you see water stains on your interior walls.

• For no apparent reason, your heating or cooling expenses have increased.

If you are thinking about changing your home’s siding to a different style or color, this should be a decision you definitely give a lot of thought to and should work with a contractor with experience and has a good standing within the community.

What siding is best for your home? It’s important to check with your HOA if you have one, to make sure there aren’t any restrictions you must abide by. When starting the process, there are a few important things to consider such as curb appeal, the architectural style of your home, the weather conditions, the maintenance needed for what you choose, durability, warranties and your budget.

There are a few options available for siding but the most popular are the following:

• Vinyl Siding – the most widely used in Central Ohio, due to its durability, cost and it’s easy to maintain. Depending on the weather throughout the year, vinyl usually just needs an annual cleaning with a water hose or power washed.

• Insulated Siding – This vinyl siding has been reinforced with foam insulation. It serves two purposes, you can enhance the appearance of your home while decreasing the heating and cooling expense at the same time. The foam not only helps to insulate your home, it also provides additional stability for the siding panels.

• Fiber Cement Siding – This siding is a composite of wood, fiber, sand, clay and cement. It’s becoming very popular in Central Ohio since it can look like a wood lap siding board, cedar shingles and wood shake. Known for its longevity of typically 30-50 years and it’s available in many color options.

• Cedar Siding – This natural wood product has many attractive features and is biodegradable making it an excellent option for “green homes.” It’s stunning when stained, it can be cut into numerous styles to fit the architectural design of your home and it maintains a timeless aesthetic appeal. Properly maintained it can last as long as 75 years.

• Vinyl Shake Siding – The beauty of wood with the durability of vinyl, you can have the best of both worlds! No painting, no staining, no rotting or fading and it’s easy to maintain.

Home renovations are our specialty, in addition to siding replacement, we offer gutter replacement, roof replacement, window replacement and sunroom additions.

We gladly work with your insurance agency for damage claims.

Experience the difference, call Ohio Exteriors at (614) 239-7663

www.OhioExteriors.com

6 Signs You Need New Gutters

Fri, 25 Sep 2020 12:30:00 GMT

Day after day, year after year, your gutters and downspouts are always on call to channel damaging storm water away from the home. Though yours may have contributed decades of faithful, mostly trouble-free service, every installation has an expiration date. If you're not certain whether or time the time for replacement has come, look out for these telltale signs of failure.

Gutters and downspouts are the unsung hero of your home. When properly functioning, they go a long way toward protecting against rain, the natural enemy of any manmade structure. In the process, gutters prevent a slew of potentially extensive, expensive moisture-related problems, all while remaining largely out of sight and out of mind. Though well-maintained, high-quality gutters can be expected to last many years, they certainly don't last forever. Click through to learn what signs might indicate the time has come to replace yours.

1) Cracked Gutters:

Cracked gutters are about as pointless as a bucket with a hole on the bottom. To inspect your gutters and downspouts, be aware that while larger cracks are plainly visible on dry, clear days—at least with the aid of binoculars—smaller cracks may only reveal themselves in a storm. No matter their size, cracks defeat the purpose of a drainage system and warrant serious appraisal. Individual cracks may be repaired, but extensive cracking is a reason to consider replacement.

2) Seam Stress

The average gutters are often most vulnerable at the seams where two horizontal sections meet. Here, both leaks and separations are common, with both types of failure eventually leading to any number of undesirable outcomes, whether outside the home or indoors. Though gutter seams can sometimes be mended, many homeowners are putting the entire hassle behind them, instead opting for seamless gutters, such as the line manufactured by industry leader LeafGuard.

3) Dealing with Peeling

Believe it or not, malfunctioning gutters can ruin a perfectly good paint job. Check your exterior siding for any paint that has bubbled up or peeled away due to excess moisture. Wherever you find a section of compromised paint, be sure to check the condition of the nearest gutter. If even your painted gutters are peeling, then you very likely have a leak. In cases where peeling paint extends beyond one or a couple of areas, think seriously about gutter replacement, not repair.

4) Stop the Rot

When malfunctioning gutters allow rain to cascade over the home, completely unchecked, then peeling paint might be least among your concerns. If allowed to rot, exterior wood trim elements like window sills and door jambs become unable to keep out the weather. So a seemingly isolated problem—say, water-damaged drywall—may in fact be caused by inadequate storm drainage. If your gutters continually cause such headaches, it's probably time to replace to them.

5) Mildew Madness

There's a reason that downspouts terminate about six feet away from the home. Moisture accumulation near the foundation tends to find its way into the basement, eventually causing unsightly, unhealthy, and often rather smelly mildew growth. If you encounter mold and mildew in a formerly dry, mildew-free area below ground, damaged gutters are the most likely cause. When such problems recur after repair attempts, gutter replacement is the next logical step.

6) Maintenance Matters

Tired of cleaning out your gutters every year? You're not alone. But since typical gutters must be maintained in order to function correctly, and since so many people forget or delay their maintenance duties, smaller and more manageable issues inevitably develop into larger, costly affairs. If that all sounds too familiar, don't hesitate: Your best bet is to install the patented one-piece LeafGuard gutter system, an innovative get-it-and-forget-it solution designed never to clog.

If you need your gutters replaced in Columbus, Ohio, call us at (614) 372-7459.

SOURCE: BOB VILLA

Should I Be Worried About Window Condensation?

Sun, 20 Sep 2020 12:00:00 GMT

SHOULD I BE WORRIED ABOUT THAT CONDENSATION ON MY WINDOWS?

If you take a look at your home’s windows and doors in winter, you may notice condensation. As temperatures drop, it often appears on the inside and outside of these surfaces. Here’s what you need to know about why condensation occurs, when it matters and what you can do about it:

Interior Condensation

When the heat is on inside the home in wintertime, a certain amount of humidity feels good -- we breathe easier, our skin is less dry and there’s less static in the air. This is fine usually, but when temperatures outside get extremely low, problems can arise. Under these circumstances, humidity can generate condensation on your windows -- whether they’re old or new -- and this should be managed. While there’s no problem with condensation on the window glass itself, (except for the fact that visibility can be obscured) that condensation could affect wood trim around the windows and lead to mold and rot. Perhaps even worse, it could be an indicator that condensation is also occurring within your walls, which can lead to unhealthy mold.

Unfortunately, the most common sources of home humidity are everyday parts of life, including showers, cooking, doing laundry and even fish tanks. However, if you see condensation on your windows there are two actions that experts recommend. One, if you have a humidifier, turn it down. The second, use a dehumidifier.

Exterior Condensation

Exterior condensation occurs when the dew point temperature approaches the outside air temperature. When the air is saturated and can’t hold any more moisture, water vapor forms droplets on surfaces -- including your roof, siding, windows and doors.

If you have energy-efficient windows, you may notice exterior condensation occur more than you did when you had older, less energy-efficient windows that allowed warmth from inside the home to reach the outside glass pane and dissipate the condensation. Unlike with interior condensation, there’s nothing to worry about in the case of exterior condensation. Moisture on the outside pane of glass is normal and a good sign that your windows are functioning correctly to prevent warmth from reaching the outside glass. The condensation will dissipate when the outside air temperature rises.

Next Steps

If there’s no condensation on the exterior of your windows but there’s moisture on adjacent exterior surfaces, this would be a good indicator that it’s time for new windows. Also, if you get constant internal condensation on your windows in very cold weather and your humidity is low, then upgrading to a more thermally efficient window would be a good idea.

Look for high-performing replacement windows with the latest technological advances that offer maximum efficiency and comfort. Third-party recognition for a particular brand or product is a strong indicator that you’re investing in a quality product. A recent “Remodeling” magazine survey of remodeling contractors ranked ProVia vinyl windows as number one in window quality in part because of their features that are tested against the most stringent requirements for air and water infiltration. This winter, pay attention to your home windows, glass doors and other surfaces. Understanding the ins and outs of interior and exterior condensation can help you address potential issues.

Source: ProVia

By StatePoint Media, Inc.

Tips for Cleaning Your Siding

Wed, 16 Sep 2020 21:09:00 GMT

There’s nothing like the look and feel of clean. Whether it’s your kitchen tile floor, your car, or your home’s siding and trim. When something is so clean it sparkles, you feel accomplished, and it looks its best.

You can achieve that same sparkle on your home’s siding by cleaning it once or twice a year. It’s recommended to pull out the garden hose and douse your home siding every 6-12 months. Don't use a high-pressure power washer to get the job done, as it turns out a low-pressure hose and a soft medium bristle (nonmetal) brush is the best way to remove dirt and debris from James Hardie® siding and trim.

Whether you’re removing dirt, grease or mildew from your James Hardie siding, we’ve gathered the tools, solutions and methods you need to keep your siding clean as a whistle.

THE CULPRIT: DIRT

Tools:

Big storms and windy days pick up dust and dirt that can cling to your home siding. To clean the muck from your home’s exterior you’ll want a soft cloth, a soft brush (such as an All Paint poly brush, a chip brush or horsehair bench brush) and a garden hose. Be sure not to use a hard metal brush or abrasive sponge—these can damage the siding’s finish.

Solution:

Water

Method:

If using a brush, brush the siding’s surface dust or dirt, then rinse the area with a garden hose. If using a soft cloth, wet the cloth, then wipe the area in a side to side motion in the direction of the plank, shingle or panel siding until clean. From there, rinse the area with clean water.

Pro tip:

Top to bottom: Work a small section at a time, start from the top and work your way down to prevent dripping or streaking onto the cleaned area.

THE CULPRIT: OIL, GREASE OR OTHER ORGANIC CONTAMINANTS

Tools:

Oil-covered hands and greasy fingers can make their way to your home’s siding, in which case you’ll want to grab a soft cloth and a garden hose.

Solution:

Mild liquid dishwashing soap and water.

Method:

Grab your soft cloth and saturate it with soapy water. Clean the stained siding while rinsing your cloth frequently. Once the siding is completely sudsed up, use a garden hose to rinse the area.

Pro tip:

Keep Wet: Do not allow soap or cleaners to dry on the siding. Instead, continually rinse the area until all of the soap has washed off of the siding.

THE CULPRIT: MOLD AND MILDEW

Tools:

Mildew can resemble dirt at times, so when it comes time to clean your siding, be sure to inspect the planks, panels or shingles. If you land on any mold or mildew, you’ll need a soft cloth (or soft sponge) and a garden hose.

Solution:

Mildew-specific cleaner and water.

Method:

Lightly scrub the area that shows any signs of mildew and be sure to carefully follow the mildew cleaner instructions. From there, use the garden hose to rinse the area.

Pro tip:

Take care with chemicals: If you’re opting to use a stronger chemical to clean your siding, be sure to read the instructions and use caution as they can damage the finish on the siding.

Note: The extent and nature of the maintenance required will depend on the geographical location and the exposure of the building. Always follow the instructions and precautions outlined in the James Hardie ColorPlus Technology literature that was supplied with the product and the information that is available on the James Hardie website (www.jameshardie.com), including James Hardie ColorPlus Technology instructions and precautions.

Source: James Hardie

7 Exterior Home Renovation That Boost Curb Appeal

Fri, 11 Sep 2020 00:11:00 GMT

New siding is the ultimate exterior home renovation

The great thing about owning a home is that you’re in charge – not every project has to be a major remodel (although those can be fun!).

New siding is the ultimate exterior home renovation, and one that pays off for decades. Your home will be well protected from the elements and look like a million bucks from the curb. Plus, re-siding your home with fiber cement siding provides the #1 return on investment of any major exterior remodeling projects, making it a better investment for your home. Additionally, 91% of builders agree fiber cement siding increases a home's appraisal value.

In that spirit, we put together seven home renovation ideas for a range of budgets (both money and time). Whether you’re looking for a weekend DIY or planning to make big changes, these projects will help to boost your home’s curb appeal.

INSTALL A RETRACTABLE AWNING: A retractable awning can bring a pop of color and welcome shade to an exposed patio or deck, especially on a home’s sunny south- and west-facing sides. What to consider: The awning has to be well secured to the home, and the fasteners must be properly sealed to prevent water penetration. How to get it done: The complexity of the project depends on the height of your home and size of the awning you plan to install. Unless you feel comfortable managing both, hire a handyman.
CHANGE UP THE FRONT DOOR: Does your front door make a statement? If not, refreshing the color or style can be a relatively easy way to change the look of your home’s exterior. What to consider: When you replace a door, you also have to replace the frame and related components. Every part must be properly sealed and should neatly meet the floor, baseboards, and trim. How to get it done: Because replacing a door involves interconnected parts and potentially some additional repair work, consider a handyman or contractor for the job. If you simply plan to repaint, you can tackle the project on your own.
REFRESH YOUR LANDSCAPING: Even landscaping can go out of style. Luckily, refreshing your home’s flowers, plants, and shrubs is a project you can do little by little, rather than all at once. What to consider: A shrub that looks perfect today may quickly grow to block a window or ruin a sidewalk. Be aware of the lifecycle of plants, bushes, and shrubs, and how their growth pattern may affect your home’s exterior. How to get it done : Most homeowners can plant flowers or replace shrubs without help from a pro. If you’re considering a complete landscaping overhaul, a landscape architect or designer can help you choose the right plants for your climate, property, and taste.
SWITCH THE LIGHTING: New lighting is another way to keep your home’s exterior on trend. Updating fixtures or installing structural lights can make a dramatic impact for a relatively small investment. What to consider: Installing lighting isn’t always as simple as swapping out fixtures — you have to consider wattage and other safety issues. Consult with your lighting supplier and an electrician before you install something new. How to get it done : When working with electricity, it’s best to hire an electrician. Not only do you want to avoid electrocution, but also any fire hazards.
BUILD A FENCE: Whether your style is “picket” or “privacy,” a fence is a versatile exterior home renovation. Depending on the materials used, fences can be good landscape accents, increase your curb appeal, or increase the functionality of your property – whether that’s privacy or security. What to consider: To build a fence, you typically need a permit and you’ll want to be sure it’s actually installed on your property, so it may be necessary to do a property survey. Contact your local building and zoning department for details. How to get it done: A fence has to be perfectly level while your lawn is not. To make sure your fence will be straight and structurally sound, hire a fencing company or contractor to build it. Your local hardware store or landscaping supply house can likely provide recommendations.
GET NEW SHUTTERS: Shutters make a huge difference for not a lot of effort. These days, there are more colors and styles than ever for you to choose from. What to consider: When selecting new shutters for your home, you have to consider the shutter color, as well as the material and dimensions. When shutters had to keep out the elements in the old days, they had to be at least as tall as the window and exactly half as wide. Now that shutters are mostly decorative, widths may vary. How to get it done: Read our guide to selecting the perfect shutter color, then talk to a home exterior supplier to be sure you’re getting the right dimensions. To install, work with a handyman or contractor: Shutter fasteners have to be well-sealed so that they stay watertight.
RE-SIDE YOUR HOME: Because every home is different, every re-side project is unique.

Remember, you’re the king or queen of your castle – home improvement projects can be as small or as big as you want. The best way to handle them is one project at a time, so you continually add to the beauty, and potentially the value, of your home for years to come. Your home will be well protected from the elements and look like a million bucks from the curb. Plus, re-siding your home with fiber cement siding provides the #1 return on investment of any major exterior remodeling projects, making it a better investment for your home.1 Additionally, 91% of builders agree fiber cement siding increases a home's appraisal value.

SOURCE: JamesHardie

Understanding Roofing Terminology - Columbus, Ohio Roofing Contractor

Mon, 07 Sep 2020 23:10:00 GMT

Words you may hear during your roof replacement project

ROOFING GLOSSARY Refer to our roofing glossary to help you better understand words and phrases you may hear during your roof replacement project.

Understanding Roofing Terminology

When working with your roofing contractor, you may hear them use industry-specific terms related to your roofing project. While you can certainly ask them to clarify anything unfamiliar for you, it can be helpful to have a handy reference guide.

Browse our roofing glossary to familiarize yourself with the meanings of commonly used residential roofing construction terms.

Algae Discoloration: A type of roof discoloration caused by algae. Commonly described incorrectly as fungus growth.

ARMA: The Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association, a trade association for North American manufacturers of asphalt roofing.

ASTM International: A voluntary organization concerned with development of consensus standards, testing procedures and specifications.

Asphalt: A bituminous waterproofing material applied to roofing materials during manufacture.

Asphalt Primer: A thin liquid bitumen applied to a surface to improve the adhesion of self-adhering membranes and to absorb dust.

Asphalt Roof Cement: An asphalt-based cement used to bond roofing materials. Also known as flashing cement or mastic; should conform to ASTM D4586 (Asbestos Free).

Architectural Shingles: See Laminated Shingles.

Back Surfacing: Fine mineral matter applied to the back side of shingles to keep them from sticking together.

Base Flashing: That portion of the flashing attached to or resting on the deck to direct the flow of water onto the roof covering.

Base-ply sheet: A product intended to be the base or middle ply in a residential self-adhering roll roofing system.

Base Sheet: A product intended to be used as a base ply in a self-adhering roll roofing system.

Blisters: Bubbles that may appear on the surface of asphalt roofing after installation.

Bridging: A method of reroofing with metric-size shingles.

Built-Up Roof: A flat or low-sloped roof consisting of multiple layers of ply sheets embedded in hot asphalt.

Bundle: A package of shingles. There are typically 3, 4 or 5 bundles per square.

Butt edge: The lower edge of the shingle tabs.

Cap Sheet: A mineral surfaced material that is used by itself or as the top layer of multi-layer rolled roof covering system.

Caulk: To fill a joint with mastic or asphalt cement to prevent leaks.

Cement: See Asphalt Roof Cement.

Chalk Line: A line made on the roof by snapping a taut string or cord dusted with chalk. Used for alignment purposes.

Class “A” Fire Resistance: The highest fire test classification for roofing as per ASTM E108 or UL790. Indicates roofing is able to withstand severe exposure to fire originating from sources outside the building.

Class “B” Fire Resistance: Fire test classification that indicates roofing material is able to withstand moderate exposure to fire originating from sources outside the building.

Class “C” Fire Resistance: Fire test classification that indicates roofing material is able to withstand light exposure to fire originating from sources outside the building.

Class 4 Impact Resistance: The highest impact resistance classification as per the UL 2218 Impact test indicating that shingles are more resistant to impacts resulting from hail storms.

Closed Cut Valley: A method of valley treatment in which shingles from one side of the valley extend across the valley while shingles from the other side are trimmed 2” from the valley centerline. The valley flashing is not exposed.

Collar: Pre-formed flange placed over a vent pipe to seal the roof around the vent pipe opening. Also called a vent sleeve.

Concealed Nail Method: Application of roll roofing in which all nails are driven into the underlying course of roofing and covered by a cemented, overlapping course. Nails are not exposed to the weather.

Condensation: The change of water from vapor to liquid when warm, moisture-laden air comes in contact with a cold surface.

Counter Flashing: That portion of the flashing attached to a vertical surface to prevent water from migrating behind the base flashing.

Course: A row of shingles or roll roofing running the length of the roof.

Coverage: The number of layers of material between the exposed surface of the roofing and the deck; i.e., single coverage, double coverage, etc.

Cricket: A peaked saddle construction at the back of a chimney to prevent accumulation of snow and ice and to deflect water around the chimney.

Cutout: The open portions of a strip shingle between the tabs. (See Figure A.)

Deck: The surface, installed over the supporting framing members, to which the roofing is applied. The minimum thickness of a wood deck is a 15/32” exterior grade plywood or 7/16” exterior grade OSB or as required by local building codes.

Dormer: A framed window unit projecting through the sloping plane of a roof.

Double Coverage: Application of asphalt roofing such that the lapped portion is at least 2” wider than the exposed portion, resulting in two layers of roofing material over the deck.

Downspout: A pipe for draining water from roof gutters. Also called a leader.

Drip Edge: A corrosion-resistant, non-staining material used along the eaves and rakes to allow water run-off to drip clear of underlying construction.

Eave: The horizontal, lower edge of a sloped roof.

Eave Flashing: Additional layer of roofing material applied at the eaves to help prevent damage from water back-up.

Exposed Nail Method: Application of roll roofing in which all nails are driven into the cemented, overlapping course of roofing. Nails are exposed to the weather.

Exposure: That portion of the roofing exposed to the weather after installation. (See Figure A.)

Felt: Fibrous material saturated with asphalt and used as an underlayment or sheathing paper.

Fiberglass Mat: The core material in an asphalt roofing shingle manufactured from glass fibers.

Flashing: Pieces of metal used to prevent seepage of water into a building around any intersection or projection in a roof such as vent pipes, chimneys, adjoining walls, dormers and valleys. Galvanized metal flashing should be minimum 26-gauge.

Flashing cement: See Asphalt Roof Cement.

Gable: The upper triangular portion of a sidewall that comes to a point at the ridge of a double sloping roof. (See Figure B.)

Gable Roof: A simple two-sided roof above a gable.

Gambrel Roof: A type of roof containing two sloping planes of different pitch on each side of the ridge. The lower plane has a steeper slope than the upper. Contains a gable at each end.

Granules: Typically ceramic-coated colored crushed rock that is applied to the exposed surface of asphalt roofing products.

Gutter: The trough that channels water from the eaves to the downspouts.

Head Lap: Shortest distance from the butt edge of an overlapping shingle to the upper edge of a shingle in the second course below. The triple coverage portion of the top lap of strip shingles.

Hexagonal Shingles: Shingles that have the appearance of a hexagon after installation.

Hip: The inclined external angle formed by the intersection of two sloping roof planes. Runs from the ridge to the eaves. (See Figure B.)

Hip Roof: A type of roof containing sloping planes on each of four sides. Contains no gables.

Hip Shingles: Shingles used to cover the inclined external angle formed by the intersection of two sloping roof planes.

Ice Dam: Condition formed at the lower roof edge by the thawing and re-freezing of melted snow on the overhang. Can force ponded water up and under shingles, causing leaks.

Ice Dam Protection: One or more courses of self-adhering underlayment installed at the eaves of a building to prevent damage from water back-up due to an ice dam. Also known as “Eave Flashing”.

Impact Resistant Shingles: Shingles that are designed to be more resistant to impacts resulting from hail storms. Impact resistant shingles are typically tested and classified in accordance with UL 2218, and may be classified as Class 1 through Class 4, with Class 4 indicating the highest impact resistance classification.

Interlocking Shingles: Individual shingles that mechanically fasten to each other to provide wind resistance.

Laminated Shingles: Shingles containing more than one layer to create extra thickness. Also called three-dimensional shingles or architectural shingles.

Lap: To cover the surface of one shingle or roll with another.

Lap Cement: An asphalt-based cement (conforming to ASTM D3019) used to adhere overlapping plies of roll roofing.

Low Slope Application: Method of installing asphalt shingles and underlayment on roof slopes ranging from 2” to less than 4” per foot.

Mansard Roof: A type of roof containing two sloping planes of different pitch on each of four sides. The lower plane has a much steeper pitch than the upper, often approaching vertical.

Mastic: See Asphalt Roof Cement.

Mid-ply Sheet: See Base-ply sheet.

Mineral Stabilizers: Finely ground limestone, slate, trap rock or other inert materials added to asphalt in shingles for durability and increased resistance to fire and weathering.

Mineral-Surfaced Roofing: Asphalt shingles and roll roofing that are covered with granules.

Nesting: A method of reroofing with new asphalt shingles over old shingles in which the top edge of the new shingle is butted against the bottom edge of the existing shingle tab.

No-Cutout Shingles: Shingles consisting of a single, solid tab with no cutouts.

Non-Veneer Panel: Any wood-based panel that does not contain a laminated veneer and carries an APA span rating, such as wafer board or oriented strand board.

Open Valley: Method of valley construction in which shingles on both sides of the valley are trimmed along a chalk line snapped on each side of the valley. Shingles do not extend across the valley. Valley flashing is exposed.

Organic Felt: An asphalt roofing base material manufactured from cellulose fibers.

Overhang: That portion of the roof structure that extends beyond the exterior walls of a building.

Pallets: Wooden platforms used for storing and shipping bundles of shingles.

Ply: A layer of roofing (i.e., one-ply, two-ply).

Ponding: The accumulation of water after rainfall at low-lying areas on a roof that remains wet when other parts of the roof have dried.

Primer: An asphalt-based primer used to prepare surfaces for bonding with self-adhering asphalt sheets.

Racking: Roofing application method in which shingle courses are applied vertically up the roof.

Rafter: The supporting framing member immediately beneath the deck, sloping from the ridge to the wall plate.

Rake: The inclined edge of a sloped roof over a wall.

Random-Tab Shingles: Shingles on which tabs vary in size and exposure.

Recovering: The process of adding an additional layer of roofing over an existing layer. A maximum of two layers of any roofing type are permitted on a roof at any time.

Release Tape: A plastic strip that is applied to the back of self-sealing shingles. This strip prevents the shingles from sticking together in the bundles and need not be removed for application.

Reroofing: The process of removing existing roof coverings and replacing with a new roofing system.

Ridge: The uppermost, horizontal external angle formed by the intersection of two sloping roof planes. (See Figure B.)

Ridge Shingles: Shingles used to cover the horizontal external angle formed by the intersection of two sloping roof planes.

Rise: The vertical distance from the eaves line to the ridge.

Roll Roofing: Asphalt roofing products manufactured in roll form.

Roofing Tape: An asphalt-saturated tape used with asphalt cements for flashing and patching asphalt roofing.

Run: The horizontal distance from the eaves to a point directly under the ridge. One half the span.

Saturated Felt: An asphalt-impregnated felt used as an underlayment between the deck and the roofing material.

SBS: Styrene-Butadiene-Styrene, which is a synthetic polymer that is mixed with asphalt in some products to increase the flexibility and other attributes of the products.

Self-Adhering Shingle Underlayment: A self-adhering waterproofing underlayment designed to protect against water infiltration due to ice dams or wind driven rain. The code prescribed requirement for this category of products is that they meet ASTM D1970 and bear a label of that designation.

Self-Sealing Shingles: Shingles containing factory-applied strips or spots of self-sealing adhesive.

Self-Sealing Strip or Spot: Factory-applied adhesive that bonds shingle courses together when exposed to the heat of the sun after application.

Selvage: That portion of roll roofing overlapped by the succeeding course to obtain single or double coverage at the lap.

Shading: Slight differences in shingle color that may occur as a result of normal manufacturing operations.

Sheathing: See Deck.

Shed Roof: A roof containing only one sloping plane. Has no hips, ridges, valleys or gables.

Single Coverage: Asphalt roofing that provides one layer of roofing material over the deck.

Slope: The degree of roof incline expressed as the ratio of the rise, in inches, to the run, in inches. For example, roof slope of 4/12 has a 4 inch rise every 12 inches.

Smooth-Surfaced Roofing: Roll roofing that is covered with ground talc or mica instead of granules (coated).

Soffit: The finished underside of the eaves.

Soil Stack: A vent pipe that penetrates the roof.

Span: The horizontal distance from eave to eave.

Square: A unit of roof measure covering 100 square feet.

Square-Tab Shingles: Shingles on which tabs are all the same size and exposure.

Standard Slope Application: Method of installing asphalt shingles on roof slopes 4” to 21” per foot.

Starter Strip: Asphalt roofing applied at the eave that provides protection by an additional layer of material under the cutouts and joints of the first course of shingles.

Steep Slope Application: Method of installing asphalt shingles on roof slopes greater than 21” per foot.

Step Flashing: Base flashing application method used where a vertical surface meets a sloping roof plane.

Strip Shingles: Asphalt shingles made from a single layer that are approximately three times as long as they are wide.

Synthetic Underlayment: An underlayment product that is typically manufactured using polypropylene and is used as an alternative to felt underlayment.

Tab: The exposed portion of strip shingles defined by cutouts. (See Figure A.)

Talc: See Back Surfacing.

Tear Off: To remove an existing roofing system down to the structural deck.

Telegraphing: A shingle distortion that may arise when a new roof is applied over an uneven surface.

Three-Dimensional Shingles: See Laminated Shingles.

Top Lap: That portion of the roofing covered by the succeeding course after installation. (See Figure A.)

UL: Underwriters Laboratories, LLC

UL Label: Label displayed on packaging to indicate the level of fire and/or wind resistance of asphalt roofing.

Underlayment: Asphalt saturated felt or specially engineered synthetic material used beneath roofing to provide additional protection for the deck.

Valley: The internal angle formed by the intersection of two sloping roof planes. (See Figure B.)

Vapor Retarder: Any material used to prevent the passage of water vapor.

Vent: Any outlet for air that protrudes through the roof deck such as a pipe or stack. Any device installed on the roof, gable or soffit for the purpose of ventilating the underside of the roof deck.

Vent Sleeve: See Collar.

Woven Valley: Method of valley construction in which shingles from both sides of the valley extend across the valley and are woven together by overlapping alternate courses as they are applied. The valley flashing is not exposed.

For your roof replacement in Columbus, Ohio call us or visit our website to learn more. www.OhioExteriors.com

Source: Owens Corning

Types of Roofing Shingles - Roof Contractor Columbus, Ohio

Sat, 29 Aug 2020 21:48:00 GMT

Owens Corning TruDefinition® Roofing Shingles

TYPES OF ROOFING SHINGLES In addition to maintaining the integrity of your roof’s structure and helping to keep out water, roofing shingles also add a tremendous amount of curb appeal and value to your home. The type of roofing shingles you choose can also affect your roof’s durability against wind, rain, hail, and other weather events.

Learn more about the different types and styles of roofing shingles.

Asphalt Roofing Shingles

There are many varieties of asphalt shingles, some designed specifically to accommodate regional weather or unique roof designs.

3-Tab Roofing Shingles

3-tab roof shingles are used on many homes in the United States and Canada.

They feature three distinct tabs of equal size, providing a symmetrical look across the roof.

Architectural Roofing Shingles

Due to their increased thickness, architectural shingles typically have a longer manufacturer warranty and some brands are rated to resist higher wind speeds.

Impact-Resistant Roofing Shingles

For instance, some shingles are reinforced on the back with a reinforcing fabric, while other shingles contain asphalt mixed with polymers, such as styrene-butadiene-styrene (or SBS) which adds a rubberizing effect to the shingles. These modifications increase the shingle’s ability to absorb the energy from a hailstone, or another source of impact, which helps to reduce the intensity of cracking, denting, or other types of damage.

COOL Roofing Shingles

Covered with solar-reflecting granules, COOL roofing shingles help make your home more energy-efficient by decreasing heat absorption through the roof.

Specialty Asphalt Roofing Shingles

Other Types of Roofing Shingles

ile Roofing

Slate Tile Shingles

Slate tile roofing shingles are made of individual thin pieces of slate, a natural stone, which are quite heavy when installed together.

A roof must be designed or reinforced to handle the weight of slate tile shingles adding to the complexity of their installation, which is part of the reason why they are one of the more expensive options available.

Wood Shingles

Wood shingle exposure is 5″ which is much smaller than wood shakes, but it is not much smaller than traditional asphalt shingles.

One of the major downsides to installing real wood shingles, however, is that they are more prone to fire damage than other types of roofing and cannot achieve a Class A fire rating.

Wood Shake Shingles

Metal Roofing

S tanding Seam Metal Roofs

Standing seam metal roofing features a series of ridges or vertical seams running up the roof slope. Standing seam panels for a metal roof are typically made from:

Galvanized steel
Galvalume steel
Aluminum
Zinc
Copper
Titanium, or
Stainless steel
Stone-Coated Metal Roofing Shingles

Different in appearance from a standing seam or flat panel roof, metal roofing shingles are stone-coated steel panels that simulate concrete or clay tile roofing, and wood shakes.

Additional Considerations When Choosing Roofing Shingles

Roof Components

Structural Elements

Additionally, some roofing materials may require special roof deck preparation or reinforced structural elements.

Solar Panels

Browse Owens Corning® Roofing Shingles to Find the Right Shingle for Your Home.

Find the perfect match for your next roof by scrolling through our large selection of asphalt roofing shingles, available in many different colors and styles.

Call Ohio Exteriors for your roof replacement needs in Central Ohio or visit our website: www.OhioExteriors.com.

Source: Owens Corning Roof Shingles Columbus, Ohio

Expert Tips on Choosing the Best Roof for Your Home

Mon, 10 Aug 2020 01:43:00 GMT

Ohio Exteriors is your trusted roofing experts. Here's what we think about choosing the best roof for your home

Consider Longevity

When you intend to live in your home for many years, it’s always best to invest in roofing materials with longer life spans. Believe us, they are worth it in the long run. Metal, tile and architectural asphalt shingles, for example, can last up to 50 years with proper maintenance. As they are durable, they usually have a low lifecycle cost. This means they save you money over time.

Choose the Right Design

As a prominent feature of your exterior, your roof can dramatically affect the beauty of your home. This is why you need to pick the right profile, color and texture that will complement your home’s architectural style. We can help you decide what will look best for your home.

Fortunately, most roofing products are designed to imitate the look of original roofs. Asphalt shingles and metal, for instance, can look like wood, tile or even slate. This gives your home a distinctive character without straying from your budget.

Scrutinize the Performance

Not all roofs are created equal. Some are better at enduring heat and impact, while others excel in shedding rain and snow. Your choice of material should meet the demands of your climate so you can ensure reliable protection for your home throughout the years.

If you’re unsure of your choices, Ohio Exteriors can help you find the perfect roofing solution for your home. We are up-to-date with the latest industry trends. We also offer an extensive range of residential roofing options to suit your needs and budget. Call us at 614-372-7459 to get started. We serve all of Central Ohio!

Ascend Composite Cladding System

Mon, 27 Jul 2020 20:24:00 GMT

A first-of-its kind solution, the ASCEND Composite Cladding System is in a class by itself with a tall profile and deep wood grain at a great value. With ASCEND, your home’s exterior will have the high-end look and beauty of real wood.

A first-of-its kind solution, the ASCEND Composite Cladding System is in a class by itself with a tall profile and deep wood grain at a great value. With ASCEND, your home’s exterior will have the high-end look and beauty of real wood. THE LOOK OF REAL WOOD. THE PERFORMANCE OF SOMETHING BETTER.

Available in 20 on-trend, fade-resistant colors, ASCEND provides the strength and performance of proven composite materials. And it offers a long-lasting elegance and a lifetime limited warranty that ensures minimal maintenance, including never needing a costly paint job.

With ASCEND, a color palette of 20 shades ranges from timeless to on-trend, while the look of real wood creates the high-end look today’s homeowners demand.

Not only does ASCEND’s light weight make it easy to handle, its self-aligning stack lock makes it easy to install—even by fewer laborers. Plus, no sealing, touching up, joint flashing or caulking is required—meaning less mess and less waste.

With ASCEND, years of minimal maintenance come backed by an industry-leading lifetime warranty for exceptional performance.

Learn more: https://ascendcompositecladding.com

Message us know so we can set up a free consult!

Why choose James Hardie Siding?

Mon, 29 Jun 2020 14:03:00 GMT

James Hardie siding is the best siding choice. Here's why!

Resistance to damage. This is one of the biggest advantages to James Hardie siding, as it maximizes the lifespan of the siding, reduces the need for maintenance, and therefore increases the overall ROI. Fiber-cement is a strong, thick material that holds up against windstorms, rain and hail, and other forms of weather. It resists insect damage, such as damage from termites, and will never suffer from rot. It’s even resistant to fire, thanks to its partial sand composition, and won’t warp, flake, or peel in response to most external stimuli.
Resistance to deterioration . If left alone in reasonable conditions, fiber-cement siding has an unusually long lifespan. In fact, most varieties carry warranties of 50 years or more. Combined with the siding’s natural resistance to external damage, this is icing on the cake.
Lack of maintenance or upkeep costs. Some forms of siding require regular upkeep and maintenance to remain in prime condition. For example, vinyl may crack or peel, requiring periodic checks and spot-replacement, and several types of siding require regular painting to keep them looking their best. For the most part, James Hardie siding doesn’t require any maintenance – though it may need to be painted eventually (more on this later).
Home value considerations. Fiber-cement siding carries a high ROI because it objectively increases the value of your home. If you install this siding, then sell your home immediately, you’ll probably make back most of the money that you spent on the installation. If you know that you’re going to sell your home sometime in the next 50 years, you can consider this siding as an investment.
Aesthetic value. Aesthetic value isn’t an objective quality, but chances are that you’re tired of looking at your old siding, and you want something newer that’s easier on the eyes. Fiber-cement siding has a number of finishing and design options, helping you to customize your home’s exterior, so you can almost always get the aesthetic improvement that you want with this material.

Get a free estimate now!

Siding on Columbus, Ohio: A Home Improvement Project That Pays Off

Tue, 10 Mar 2020 15:06:00 GMT

Homeowners start a home improvement project for two common reasons. The first is that they have plans to put up their homes for sale in the near future and thus want the homes to make a good impression on potential buyers. The second reason is that homeowners want a functional improvement. Whatever their objectives are, homeowners can consider home remodeling projects that give the most value for their investment, as Kentin Waits of Moneytalksnews.com explains.

2. Replacing siding

Replacing the siding on your home not only improves its appearance, it can boost energy efficiency too. If you choose vinyl or other siding products with permanent color, gravitate toward neutral colors that will still be classic year after year. According to Angie’s List, a $10,000 siding investment can return an 80 percent return on investment or more.

A good siding option for homeowners to consider is vinyl siding because this offers both aesthetic and functional benefits. However, while homeowners may have their minds set on vinyl siding, they should maintain reservations about installing new siding in Columbus, Ohio right in the middle of winter. When Columbus locals talk about the right time to have home remodeling done, winter is rarely the season that springs to mind, after all.

While some siding contractors in Columbus, OH do offer vinyl siding installation services during winter, homeowners need to be mindful that the freezing temperatures can affect this particular home remodeling effort. For one, the installation process during winter will involve placing smaller sections at a time to prevent cold drafts from entering the homes, resulting in a longer project duration. Second, when snowfall is extremely heavy, access to the exterior of homes becomes difficult because of the faster buildup of snow around the home.

As Kentin Waits points out in his article, siding replacement is truly a home improvement project that is worth a homeowner’s investment. However, before undertaking this project in winter, homeowners should consult with dependable siding companies like Ohio Exteriors, to avoid possible installation issues. They should also keep in mind that the right installation is highly critical to getting optimal value out of an investment in vinyl siding installation.

(Article Excerpt and Image from 8 Home Improvement Projects That Pay Off Big, Moneytalksnews.com, Published 29 August 2013)

Swapping Out Old and Faulty Panes with ReplacementT Windows in Columbus

Tue, 10 Mar 2020 14:59:00 GMT

A question and answer column on the Daily Herald news portal published last December 8, 2013 offers several solutions to readers experiencing housekeeping problems. The column largely deals with issues related to cold temperatures; a fitting theme, considering the current winter season. One of the issues raised by a reader revolves around foggy double paned window:

We have a passive solar house built in Shelburne, Vt., during the “first” energy crisis in the 1970s. It includes three large (49-by-70-inch) double-paned windows, directly facing south, of course. These are the original windows.

The middle of these three windows has streaks of fog inside, which I assume means there is no longer a complete seal and there is likely a pinhole or opening on the outside of the window letting air and humidity enter.

What are my options to correct this situation? Is there a solution short of complete window replacement?

A. Yes, the seal is broken, and it is not surprising considering the glass is about 40 years old. It can happen with age, vibrations or poor installation, etc.

Although this does not materially diminish the insulating value of the glass, it is unsightly and impairs the view. The only solution is to have the glass replaced.

Foggy windows can be a huge source of frustration for homeowners, though the problem illustrated above can also be a precursor to even bigger problems. A compromised window seal can potentially disrupt the energy efficiency of an entire home if not resolved immediately. Locals can have brand-new Columbus replacement windows fitted into their homes, with the help of contractors like Ohio Exteriors.

A faulty window seal will cause more than just fogging; it can lead to major heat loss as well. Such a drawback can be especially disadvantageous during the winter months, when households rely on furnaces to generate precious indoor heat. When warmed air seeps out of these seals, homeowners tend to crank up their furnaces to keep the right indoor temperatures, resulting in higher energy consumption.

Normally, window seals can be easily replaced without taking out much of the structure. However, older windows, particularly those more than 15 years old, will typically require a full replacement, as the entire fixture would most likely be too worn to be of any use (or reuse, for that matter). Householders should consider acquiring new replacement windows in Columbus, Ohio to substitute for aging and inefficient ones.

(Article Excerpt and Image from Moisture within double-paned window inhibits the view, Daily Herald, December 8, 2013)

Leaving the Dangerous Roof Repairs to an Experienced Columbus Roofer

Tue, 10 Mar 2020 14:54:00 GMT

The Chicago Tribune has a feature published on its website, dated December 6, 2013, that lists a number of housekeeping DIYs that can quickly turn too dangerous for homeowners to attempt. Indeed, many homeowners (particularly men) want to do their own upkeep and repairs; however some jobs are so dangerous it’s best to leave the work to a seasoned professional. The article cites roofing as one such challenging and hazardous project:

Roofing. Asphalt-based shingles are not hard to measure, cut, fit and nail. The problem for do-it-yourselfers is their location — especially when the roof is too high or the pitch is too steep to feel safe. In good weather and wearing nonslip sneaks, most DIYers feel OK one story off the ground but not two or more. Many feel fine when the roof is walkable but not when they need scaffolding or an OSHA-approved body harness with a safety rope tie-down. Those are for contractors, not DIYers. For most of us, the comfort limit is a pitch no greater than 5-in-12, which is a 23-degree angle..

Roofing jobs are certainly not for the faint of heart; the height alone can cause anxiety attacks in some people. However, roofing can’t be ignored either, so homeowners uncomfortable in doing roofing jobs on their own should leave the task to experienced contractors. A skilled Columbus roofer can capably repair or replace roofing while sparing householders from the risks of the job.

The primary danger in any roofing job is the fall; it doesn’t take a long fall to sufficiently break bones, or cause death from the resulting trauma. There are also many other dangers in repairing a roof, such as the intense heat from the sun, electrical hazards from exposed wiring, the risk of the roof caving in, and so on. However, there are also dangers in leaving a roof unrepaired and ill-maintained — this can lead to extensive water damage and poisonous mold growth, among other things.

For safety’s sake, homeowners are better off leaving roof repair in Columbus, Ohio to professional contractors like Ohio Exteriors. These roofers have the experience and the equipment necessary to completely and safely carry out any necessary repair work. When it comes to roofing, do as the article says: “Whatever the height and pitch, if you’re not comfortable there, don’t go there.”

(Article Excerpt and Image from Those uh-oh moments, Chicago Tribune, December 6, 2013)

Maintaining House Siding in Columbus, Ohio During the Winter Season

Tue, 10 Mar 2020 14:48:00 GMT

An article on the newsnet5.com website dated January 6, 2014 explains why homeowners can sometimes hear popping and creaking within their residences during winter. Apparently, the low temperatures of the season are causing parts of the house to warp and crack, and it can reach a point wherein homeowners can actually hear their homes react to the cold.

“For this, you can blame the cold weather. Its a basic law of physics — warm things expand, colder things contract.

The extreme and rapid drop from unseasonably warm temperatures (near 40° F on Sunday) to record setting low temperatures the next day (-15° F), causes a rapid shrinking in all building materials exposed to the cold.

While the house stays warm on the inside, the siding and exterior boards are reacting to the extreme cold temperatures on the outside. The cold causes the outside of your home to quickly shrink. This puts stress on joints, nails and bolts. When the pressure is released quickly, the result is a loud popping noise or “bang.”

Some folks may find new cracks in drywall or around windows and doors as adjoining boards and pieces of siding move away from each other.”

Winter can be especially harsh on siding, causing the fixture to warp and even crack. Homeowners should be wary of the state of their siding and should have them immediately repaired if any part of the cladding begins to show serious signs of wear and tear. Fortunately, there are contractors, such as the contractors at Ohio Exteriors, who can be called on to replace house siding in Columbus, Ohio even during winter.

Each siding material behaves differently when subjected to cold weather; homeowners should keep this in mind when selecting a siding that’s suitable for their homes. Some materials can be especially delicate when exposed to the cold, and could start warping or cracking. Others, such as fiber cement, are a lot more resistant to freezing and warping, and can even improve the insulation of a home against the cold. Cedar siding is also a good option, as it has natural chemicals that make it moisture resistant and a good insulator.

Those planning to have their siding repaired or replaced during winter will be glad to know that there are benefits in doing so. Contractors often charge lower rates during winter, since the period is considered an off-season. Some professionals also find it much easier to install cladding during winter, as workers need not toil away underneath a sweltering sun. Homeowners should take advantage of such opportunities and have fiber cement, vinyl, or cedar siding in Columbus, Ohio fitted by expert contractors such as Ohio Exteriors.

(Article Information and Image from Those pops and creeks in your house: Blame the cold weather, newsnet5.com, January 6, 2014)

Sidins with the Good: Choosing a Durable Siding in Columbus, Ohio

Tue, 10 Mar 2020 14:42:00 GMT

The HomeDoctor website has a feature that extolls the ease of maintaining fiber cement siding. Fiber cement, formed from a mixture of wood fiber and cement, is both sturdy and resilient. In fact, it’s so resilient that homeowners can simply use a power washer to scrub clean their siding:

“There are several things to keep in mind as you clean your fiber cement siding. Generally, fiber cement siding is most easily cleaned using a power washer. A hose can work, but the pressure is often not enough to get rid of any resistant dirt, mildew, or mold. Also, you should clean your fiber cement siding annually to keep the dirt and mildew from building up.”

Fiber cement is an extremely hardy building material, and as siding, it will serve homeowners well for a very long time. The composite material might not sound like much, yet fiber cement has a list of benefits that all householders should properly consider before dismissing the option of using it as siding. Those interested in installing fiber cement siding in Columbus, Ohio will need the expertise of contractors like Ohio Exteriors to achieve a superior fit.

Its extreme toughness and ease of maintenance aside, fiber cement siding has other advantages that homeowners should seriously look into. It’s usually more affordable than wood siding, and can be the perfect alternative since fiber cement can be fashioned to look like wood. Fiber cement is also resistant to the effects of varying temperatures, and will not warp or crack through hot and cold weather. The material is also resistant to termite attacks. Unlike other siding materials such as vinyl, fiber cement can be painted over, giving homeowners the freedom to personalize their cladding any way they wish. Additionally, while partially made from wood, fiber cement is highly resistant to fire.

While fiber cement is a superior siding choice, it’s very difficult to install due to its heavy weight. Homeowners will need the services of capable siding contractors in Columbus, Ohio, such as Ohio Exteriors, for an accurate installation. A proper fit will ensure that the siding completely protects the exterior of the home while minimizing installation flaws that can later develop into damages.

(Article Information and Image from The Ease in Cleaning Fiber Cement Siding, homedoctor.net)

Getting Choosy About the Color of Your House Siding in Columbus, Ohio

Tue, 10 Mar 2020 14:38:00 GMT

When it comes to siding and other home improvement projects, homeowners from Columbus, Ohio should be choosy. By being sure of what you want and what suits your home best, you can save a lot of time and money. The toughest decision, however, is choosing among color options: “How do I pick from about a dozen colors for my siding?” An article on SFGate.com has some tips on how to go about this step:

Siding is an appealing, functional and durable material that gives a home outdoor style. Choosing the right color of siding for your real estate investment is a matter of personal taste, practicality and architectural compatibility. Modern vinyl siding usually comes prepainted with long-lasting primers and overcoats intended to last for years. However, you can repaint some types of siding to create visual interest.
Evaluate your personal preferences when deciding on a siding color. If you like a warm cozy exterior, opt for siding colors in medium brown shades, beige, darker green hues or warm golden colors. For a light and bright exterior design, choose white, pale yellow or light tan siding. Serene options generally include soft blue, pale green and light gray. Sherwin Williams recommends driving through local neighborhoods to see color options that appeal to your personal taste.

Since this task may still be complicated for the inexperienced, it’s essential to contact a professional. With superior materials and dependable service from Ohio Exteriors, which specializes in house siding in Columbus, Ohio , local homeowners can be better guided when looking to upgrade the look of their home’s exterior. They have plenty of options to choose from, including vinyl, fiber cement, or cedar, and each comes in a variety of different colors.

If the task of choosing a color is still proving to be tough, you could also opt for cedar. Its natural and rustic texture gives off a classic look that can complement almost any type of house theme. Fortunately, Ohio Exteriors also specializes in cedar siding in Columbus, Ohio and if you’re interested to learn more about its benefits, visit their website at www.ohioexteriors.com .

(Article Excerpt and Image fromHow to Decide on the Color of Siding, HomeGuides.SFGate.com)

Consider the Climate When Choosing Replacement Windows in Columbus

Tue, 10 Mar 2020 14:38:00 GMT

Ideally, residential properties are built taking a number of factors into account, some of which may be more significant than others. The local climate plays an important role in building homes; and in fact is the basis for many of the provisions in a local building code. A homeowner’s choice of replacement windows, in particular, should be influenced by the climate in their location.

Deborah L. O’Mara gives some pointers on choosing window replacements according to the climate in your area:

“In order to make your home as energy efficient as possible, it’s important to determine the best window for your climate: one that keeps heat out in the summer and, in the winter, keeps it in.

In older homes, windows are often one of the largest sources of heat loss in winter, due to air leakage and the windows’ low insulating qualities. Windows are also the major source of unwanted heat gain in the summer.

Many windows, skylights and glazed doors now bear energy ratings or labels, similar to those placed on household appliances, to help builders and homeowners choose energy-efficient products. These labels have been developed by the nonprofit National Fenestration Rating Council, which operates a voluntary certification program that documents criteria corresponding to heat loss and gain methods, including U-factors and solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC).”

The climate in Columbus, Ohio brings humid, wet summers and cold winters. According to the Environment Protection Agency’s ENERGY STAR program, windows and doors in the Northern US should have a U-factor 0.30 or lower. The U-factor pertains to the overall level of insulation that a specific home fixture can provide; the lower, the better. Some states like Florida have a hotter climate than Ohio and therefore have much higher U-factors to consider (i.e. at most 0.60).

The program also recommends certain framing materials, like fiberglass and aluminum, because they can complement the windows’ energy efficiency. Homeowners can consult with reputable suppliers of replacement windows in Columbus , such as Ohio Exteriors, in looking for the right kind of windows for their homes, factoring in the energy-efficiency features needed for the area.

In addition to this, homeowners should also consider the kind of weather conditions the climate brings. In Columbus, tornadoes are rare but they do occur periodically. This means that the ideal replacement window in Columbus, Ohio should be impact-resistant and be able to withstand high-gale winds. Trusted window replacement contractors like Ohio Exteriors can help homeowners find the right kind of windows for their homes that will have a good chance of standing up against the weather.

(Article Information and Image from The Best Window for a Mixed Climate, HGTV Remodels)

DIY 101: Roofing Jobs Are Best Left to a Professional Columbus Roofer

Tue, 10 Mar 2020 14:38:00 GMT

Many people like to dabble in home improvement, and engage in several DIY projects for their homes. While the activity can indeed be an engaging hobby, some homeowners risk making amateur mistakes, like employing the wrong tools or choosing the wrong materials for roofs. The latter is particularly important because, as renowned construction expert Bob Vila says, some roofing materials are better suited for certain architectural types and not for others.

For example, slate is widely considered to be one of the toughest and most reliable roofing materials around, but it is usually too heavy for a small house. Meanwhile, green roofs (i.e. roofs that make use of vegetative coverings) are lauded as energy-efficient and environment-friendly, but they require labor-intensive and complex construction processes. These factors may not be apparent from typical DIY resources, and can only be learned from consulting with the experts, such as Ohio Exteriors.

Roofing, in particular, is such an important part of the house and any mistake in its construction and maintenance can compromise the home’s protection. With this in mind, a homeowner in Columbus, Ohio would be well advised to consult with a reliable Columbus roofer , such as Ohio Exteriors, before proceeding with a roofing project.

The amount and scope of a roofing job is quite significant. A roofing system, after all, has several components, among them: the tiles/shingles, underlayment, trusses, flashings, and gutters. Each of these have specifications that should be strictly adhered to, and deviations can lead to roofing defects.

In addition to this, an established roofing contractor from Columbus, Ohio , like a professional from Ohio Exteriors, sees to it that the roof they build adheres to the state’s building codes. Ohio’s Board of Building Standards has a number of requirements for roofs (Chapter 4101:1-15) that cover everything from wind resistance, ventilation, to the right type of nail used for specific materials. Unlike amateur DIYers, licensed contractors have the necessary training and skills that enable them to strictly conform to these standards.

On top of all these arguments against a DIY roofing job, homeowners should remember the safety hazards that working on the roof can pose. Professional roofers have been trained to be aware of their safety at all times. In addition to this, they are equipped with the necessary safety materials that can minimize these risks. For reasons of safety, accuracy, and excellent workmanship, therefore, it would be best for homeowners to leave the roofing job to the professionals at Ohio Exteriors.

(Article Information and Image from Roofing Roundup: 7 of Today’s Most Popular Choices, Bob Vila, undated)

Choose Siding That Suits You By Consulting Siding Contractors in Columbus Oh

Tue, 10 Mar 2020 13:58:00 GMT

The ideal type of siding for your house depends on several factors: the results you are expecting to achieve, your location, the overall architectural style of your house, and how much you are willing to spend. Many residents in Columbus, Ohio are convinced that brick is the best siding material while others prefer fiber-cement and vinyl. Each of these has its own unique characteristics and it all depends on the individual to prioritize what is more important.

To make the decision a little simpler, a study released on nwitimes.com shows that installing new siding in Columbus, Ohio will prove to be beneficial regardless of your preference. It is one of the best home improvement projects to undertake if you’re considering property value, curb appeal, and energy efficiency:

Vinyl siding is low-cost, durable and easy to install, hitting all the right notes when it comes to getting a good return on your home improvement dollar. Over time, vinyl siding replacement projects have returned 81.6 percent on the initial investment.
Fiber-cement siding also shows a strong ROI, with the second-best return of any project in the long-term look at the Cost vs Value Report — 83.8 percent. Although it’s more expensive than vinyl, it does have one thing vinyl still lacks — the perception of quality.
Foam-backed vinyl is another winning project, with an average long-term return of just under 80 percent and a cost that’s slightly higher than fiber-cement since it’s an energy-efficient upgrade, with an R-value of R-2 to R-3 that delivers estimated energy savings of 5.5 percent over a measured two-year period.

This means that you can’t just expect your old siding to still be worth the same after many years. Ohio Exteriors, one of the leading siding contractors in Columbus, OH , would say that as time passes, most siding materials will see the need for repair or replacement due to the harsh effects of weather and age. If your siding has served its purpose for some time now and is showing indications of damage, you ought to consider a change, especially if you’re planning on selling your home soon. For more information on the various types of siding to consider, visit Ohio Exteriors at www.ohioexteriors.com.

(Article Excerpt and Image from Long-Term Winners when it comes to Remodeling ROI, nwitimes.com, March 05, 2014)

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Check our latest projects below. We're looking forward to helping you with your sunroom/addition project!

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