Frequently Asked Questions
ROOFING
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Climate, style of the home, budget, durability, and maintenance. Common materials include asphalt shingles, metal, clay, slate, and wood. The most common material is asphalt shingles due to its overall combination of durability, appearance and affordability.
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Depends on the materials and climate where your home is located. Generally, a homeowner can expect a new roof to last as follows: Asphalt shingles usually last around 20-30 years, while metal roofs can last 50+ years. Slate and tile roofs have the longest lifespan, often exceeding 100 years
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Size of the roof, type of material, complexity of the roof’s design, and the access to the roof for disposal of the existing roof all impact the price. Asphalt shingles are generally the most economical choice and premium materials like slate or metal are generally higher in price. We would be honored to discuss options and give you a tailored proposal for your property. Our mission is to provide transparency and always deal with honesty and integrity.
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There are a number of factors that impact this decision including how old is the current roof and what material is the existing roof, are there numerous leaks or is it confined to a specific area of the roof, is there extensive damage, leaks, curling or missing shingles, and an old roof nearing the end of its lifespan. We would be happy to come inspect your roof and provide an assessment.
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Architectural shingles: More durable, have a layered design, and typically have a longer lifespan.
3-tab shingles: Less expensive, flatter in design, and typically have a shorter lifespan.
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We do not recommend as its important to assess the condition of the roof boards and replacing those with excessive deterioration. Multiple layers can compromise the roof’s integrity. Also, it may void some warranties or reduce the roof's lifespan.
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Energy-efficient options: Consider cool roofs, which reflect more sunlight, or adding insulation to your attic. Some roofing materials, like metal or certain shingles, are also more energy-efficient. When choosing asphalt shingles the color can affect heat absorption - darker shingles absorb and retain more heat while lighter colored shingles absorb and retain less heat.
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Depending on the size and complexity of the roof, installation typically takes a few days to a week. Bad weather can cause delays.
GUTTERS
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Water intrusion can cause damage to your home and can run thousands of dollars to remediate. Gutters and downspouts are essential for directing rainwater away from your home’s foundation. If your gutters are damaged, clogged, or leaking, they can cause water damage to your roof, foundation, siding, and landscaping. You may need to replace them if they're sagging, rusting, cracked, or if water is overflowing due to clogs.
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Common Gutter Materials:
Aluminum: Lightweight, rust-resistant, and affordable. Comes in seamless options for a more custom look. (Most common)
Copper: A durable, rust-resistant, and aesthetically appealing material that ages to a green patina over time. Copper is often chosen for its look and longevity.
Steel: Galvanized or stainless steel gutters are strong and long-lasting but may rust over time. Stainless steel is more resistant to rust.
Vinyl: A low-cost, lightweight material that is easy to install. It’s prone to cracking in extreme temperatures and isn’t as durable as metal options.
Zinc: Known for its long lifespan and corrosion resistance. Zinc gutters develop a patina over time but are highly durable.
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The lifespan depends on the material used and the maintenance provided:
Aluminum: 20-30 years
Copper: 50+ years
Vinyl: 15-20 years
Steel: 20-30 years (but may rust faster)
Zinc: 50+ years
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Signs of needing gutters replaced include:
Cracks, holes, or rust spots.
Sagging gutters or gutters that are pulling away from the house.
Overflowing water or water pooling around the foundation.
Mold, mildew, or water damage near the roofline or foundation.
Frequent clogs or drainage issues.
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Ensure that downspouts are extended at least 3-4 feet away from the foundation to prevent water from pooling around your home, which could lead to foundation damage. You can install downspout extenders or splash blocks to direct water further away from your foundation.
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Gutter Guards are protective screens or covers that fit over your gutters to prevent debris from entering. They can reduce maintenance by preventing leaves, twigs, and other debris from clogging the gutters. They can save hundreds of dollars in gutter cleaning over the life of the gutters.
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Choose downspouts that complement the size of your gutters. Larger gutters may need larger downspouts to efficiently move water away from the home. Consider:
Standard 2x3-inch downspouts for smaller homes.
3x4-inch downspouts for larger homes or areas with heavy rainfall.
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Choose a color that complements the trim or roofing color of your home. Many gutters come in neutral shades like white, brown, or gray, but there are also custom colors available to match or contrast with your home’s exterior.
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The cost of replacing gutters and downspouts varies depending on:
The material chosen (aluminum, copper, vinyl, etc.).
The size of the house.
Whether the gutters are seamless or sectional.
Labor costs in your area.
Additional features like gutter guards or leaf screens.
On average, the cost can range from $500 to $5,000, depending on the size and material.
SIDING
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Your choice will depend on factors like climate, home style, budget, and maintenance requirements. Common options include vinyl, wood, fiber cement, stucco, and metal. The determining factors are cost, appearance, and lifespan.
The lifespan of siding depends of the material:
Vinyl: 20-40 years
Wood: 20-40 years (depending on maintenance)
Fiber Cement: 30-50 years
Stucco: 50+ years
Metal: 40-70 years
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Choose a siding that performs well in your region’s weather:
Vinyl: Best for a variety of climates but can crack in extreme cold.
Wood: Great for milder climates, but may require regular maintenance.
Fiber Cement: Suitable for almost any climate, resistant to termites, and fire-resistant.
Stucco: Ideal for dry, warm climates but can be damaged in extreme wet conditions.
Metal: Works well in coastal areas where salt can damage other materials.
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Look for siding materials that offer good insulation. Fiber cement, insulated vinyl, and wood can provide good insulation, especially when paired with foam backing or additional insulation.
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Choose a color that complements your home’s architecture and blends with the surrounding environment. Lighter colors reflect heat, helping to keep your home cooler in warm climates, while darker colors retain heat, which may be beneficial in colder climates.
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The duration of the project depends on the size of the house and the type of siding. Generally, it takes 1 to 3 weeks for a full siding replacement. Weather conditions can also affect the timeline.
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Maintenance Tips: The level of maintenance varies by material:
Vinyl: Low maintenance; just clean it periodically.
Wood: Requires regular painting or staining to prevent rot and damage from the elements.
Fiber Cement: Minimal maintenance; occasional washing and repainting every 10-15 years.
Stucco: Needs periodic inspections for cracks and resealing.
Metal: Requires minimal upkeep but should be cleaned occasionally.
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Insulated Siding: Insulated siding includes a foam layer that adds thermal resistance, improving energy efficiency and providing better insulation. It’s more expensive but can help reduce energy costs.
Non-insulated Siding: Regular siding without the extra insulation, typically cheaper but less effective in terms of energy efficiency.
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Look for:
Cracked, warped, or rotting boards.
Mold or mildew buildup.
Fading or peeling paint (if not vinyl).
Frequent repairs.
Gaps or holes allowing water or pests to get inside.
PAINTING
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Homeowners often wonder whether it’s more cost-effective to repaint the exterior or replace the siding/trim. Repainting is usually a less expensive option, but if the siding is severely damaged or outdated, replacement might be a better long-term solution.
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The frequency depends on the material of the home and the local climate.
Wood: Every 3-7 years.
Vinyl or Aluminum Siding: Every 5-10 years.
Brick: Typically doesn’t need painting, but if painted, every 5-10 years.
Stucco: Every 5-10 years.
Metal or Wood Trim: Every 5-7 years.
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The type of paint depends on the material:
Wood: Use high-quality exterior latex paint for flexibility and durability.
Vinyl: Use vinyl-safe paint, as traditional paint may not adhere well to vinyl.
Brick: Use masonry paint that’s breathable to allow moisture to escape.
Metal: Use rust-resistant enamel paint.
Stucco: Use a paint designed for masonry or stucco surfaces.
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The color should complement the surrounding environment, neighborhood, and architectural style of the home. Lighter colors reflect heat and help keep the home cooler, while darker colors absorb heat. Always check if there are any neighborhood restrictions on exterior colors, especially in HOA-regulated areas.
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It depends on the condition of the existing paint. If the old paint is peeling, chipped, or cracked, it's best to strip or sand it down. However, if the paint is in good condition, you can usually paint over it after cleaning and priming the surface.
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Power washing is highly recommended to remove dirt, mold, and old peeling paint from the surface. It helps the new paint adhere better and ensures a smooth finish. It is critical to let the surface dry thoroughly before applying paint.
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Yes, you can paint over brick or stone, but it requires specific paint designed for masonry.
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Yes, a fresh coat of paint can improve your home’s curb appeal, making it look more well-maintained and attractive to potential buyers. Neutral colors often have the best return on investment, but the overall condition and quality of the paint job are also important.
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Yes, there are low-VOC (volatile organic compound) and zero-VOC paints that are better for the environment and for your health. These paints emit fewer harmful chemicals and are a great choice if you’re concerned about air quality or are looking for sustainable options.