How To Qualify Your Roofing Contractor

Roofing Savage MN

When looking for a roofing contractor for your home, it is essential to pick a roofing contractor who has both experience and a solid reputation for providing excellent customer care. The difference can be in the quality!

Roofing contractors who have been in the industry for a considerable amount of time, who are committed to the success of their company as well as their clientele, will make every effort to provide excellent service to their clientele. After all, the patronage of their clients is what drives the success of their company.

It is helpful to have a clear idea of what you want from a contractor before you start shopping for one. If a contractor possesses all seven of the characteristics listed below, it’s likely that they are the best choice to meet your requirements as a client.

 

1. They Treat Your Home As If It Were Their Own.

The process of repairing or replacing a roof can be a dirty one. The most reputable contractors will respect your property as if it were their very own. They are careful to safeguard the construction site, and once the work is finished, they will clean up any debris that was left behind.

The roofing contractor should have provided you with a contract or any other paperwork that contains information regarding the cleaning procedure. When a contractor is able to guarantee you, in writing, that they will tidy up once the job is done and remove any debris left behind, you will know that you have chosen a reliable one.

 

2.They Have An Excellent Reputation.

Reputation is essential. A roofer with a strong reputation has provided excellent service to their consumers. How can you tell if a roofer is reputable?

Although anyone can install shingles, only professionals will have manufacturer support. This indicates that the roofing contractor has been vetted and approved by the manufacturer of the brand they represent and use. This is a critical accreditation that can protect you and your roof installation investment.

Positive online reviews are an excellent place to start. Read the unfavorable reviews as well. You may discover whether contractors have recurring customer issues by looking for patterns in their internet reviews.

Referrals from friends and family are often excellent markers of exceptional performance. If you know someone who recently had their roof redone, inquire about their contractor. If they did, request a referral.

 

3. They Are Knowledgeable And Intelligent.

Whether you have discovered a good roofer, you will know it because they should be willing to offer feedback during the consultation process. This is how you can tell when you have found a good roofer. They may steer you toward particular kinds of materials that can assist you in achieving your objectives, or they may provide you with information regarding the amount of time you can anticipate your current roof to remain in good condition.

 

4. They Pay Attention And Take Notes

Any person who works in the roofing industry needs to have strong communication skills. Try to find a contractor who gives the impression that they are taking notes throughout the consultation and who has a lot of questions to ask regarding your timeframe, budget, and so on.

After you have signed the contract, the very finest roofers will keep you informed on a frequent basis, either by checking in with you via email, by calling you, or even by sending you a quick text message. They should also be ready to answer any questions or issues that may arise while you use the service.

 

5. They Have A Solid Team.

When you meet with the roofer for the first time for the consultation, it is important to learn as much as you can about his or her team. Is everyone on the squad inexperienced? Have the members of the team been working together for a significant amount of time? If the staff is steady, the company is likely to be stable as well, which is fantastic news for you as a client.

Keep in mind that contractors who have a solid team are more likely to have spent more time educating their team members, which means that they are less likely to make mistakes or have accidents on your project site. This is especially important if you are using subcontractors.

 

6. They Are Sincere And Dependable

The contractor that you choose to engage ought to be open to discussing details regarding their insurance, certifications, and licenses with you. If you are unable to locate this information on their website, you should inquire about it when you are in consultation with them. It is expected that all of their contact information, including a mailing address, will be listed on their website. Transparency is the defining characteristic of a trustworthy contractor!

To tell you the truth, a lot of people who call themselves “experienced contractors” try to break into the roofing field without having the appropriate training or credentials. As a direct consequence of this, there are typically a great deal of impostors and fake roofers.

The subject of whether or not they have a license on their person is a good one to ask right off the bat. For initiatives that cost more than $2,000, a license is necessary. Find out what kind of license they have, as this is an additional vital piece of information. Every level of licensing, from home remodeler licenses to commercial contractor licenses, has criteria that are progressively more stringent and difficult to meet. The higher the license, the more it demonstrates the individual’s level of expertise, skill, and secure financial standing.

 

7. They Enjoy Displaying Their Completed Roofs

In addition to providing references, contractors should be pleased to demonstrate finished projects for their clients. Request that the roofing contractor you are considering show you images of previous jobs that they have performed. The most reputable contractors likely have hundreds of photographs documenting successful projects in which they had a role and of which they are quite proud.

 

Hire A High-Quality, Trustworthy Roof Installation Company Today!

Exteriors Plus would be thrilled to have the opportunity to be of service to you if you are interested in having your roof repaired or replaced. If you have any questions, please get in touch with us!

How to Choose Colors For Your Homes Roof & Siding

Roof Replacement Shakopee MN

When it comes to choosing a new roof, one of the most important parts is choosing a color. The color of your roof can complement your home’s aesthetics or surroundings to create better curb appeal and if you want your home to stand out, you could choose a bright or bold color. If on the other hand, you want your home to blend in with its surroundings, choose a neutral color. As well, you should also consider the colors of your gutters, trim, and siding when choosing a roof color, the more you can get the features to accentuate one another, the better the exterior of your home will look.

In general, it is best to choose a color that contrasts with these other elements. For example, if your siding is light-colored, you might choose a dark-colored roof, nor if you have dark trim, you may want copper gutters to add a luxurious feel to the corners of your home. Our advice is to be sure to consult with a professional before making your final decision. They can help you consider all of the factors involved and make sure that you choose a color that will look great for years to come. There are many factors to consider when choosing a color, so be sure to consider the following suggestions.

 

Color Contrast

The roof is one of the most important features of a house, in terms of function, size and appearance. The right roof color can help to complement the siding and other exterior features, while the wrong color can make the whole house look mismatched and unfinished. When choosing a roof color, it is important to consider the overall aesthetic harmony of the house. 

Generally speaking, a light-colored siding looks best with a dark roof, and vice versa. For example, a white siding tends to pop when paired with a dark blue or black roof, whereas a dark brown or green roof can help to tone down a too-bright siding color. However, there are no hard-and-fast rules when it comes to roof color, so ultimately it is up to the homeowner to choose what looks best.

Subtle vs. Dramatic

One color or design feature can make a world of difference when it comes to subtle or dramatic exteriors. Before you begin looking for siding and roof color combinations, decide if you want the look and feel of your home to be more subdued or striking.

Subtle homes typically feature less contrasting colors, while dramatic homes have more contrast. Neutral colors are great if you prefer a subtle style. A dramatic style doesn’t need bold or bright colors, although those are guaranteed to bring the drama. Instead, you can pair contrasting colors, such as blue siding and a tan roof.

If you want your home exterior to make a statement, consider adding other design elements, such as Shutters, that will reflect your personal style. When it comes to choosing siding and roof colors, there are endless possibilities. The key is finding a combination that works for you and your home.

Warm Tones vs. Cool Tones

When choosing colors for your home, one helpful way to narrow down your options is to choose a color palette. Colors are typically divided into warm and cool categories. It is usually best to pair cool colors with other cool colors, and warm colors with other warm colors. If you want your home to give off a calm vibe, then you may opt for cool colors like blue and green. If you prefer a sense of joy and energy, then warm colors like orange and red might be the best route for you. Another tip is to pair white and gray with cool colors, tan and brown with warm colors, and black with any color scheme. By following these guidelines, you can create a color combination that is both aesthetically pleasing and cohesive.

Contemporary vs. Classic

When choosing a roof and siding color combination, one of the first decisions you’ll need to make is between a contemporary or classic design. Contemporary designs are characterized by dark siding, colored metal roofs, and multidimensional materials and colors. On the other hand, classically designed homes usually feature one solid color on the siding, asphalt shingle roofs, and complementary window shutters. 

However, it’s important to note that classic designs can still include a bright color palette or unique material combinations. Ultimately, the decision between a contemporary or classic design should be based on your personal preferences and the overall look you want to achieve for your home.

 

Pattern Contrast

When it comes to choosing the right roof shingles for your home, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, you’ll want to consider the overall look of the exterior of your home. If the siding is patterned, for example, multicolored stone bricks, then you’ll want to choose roof shingles that are a solid color. Similarly, if the siding is a solid color, for example, stucco, then a solid colored roof will look boring. 

You’ll also want to consider the material of the shingles. Some shingle materials provide natural color variation, whereas others are naturally solid. For example, asphalt shingles can come in a variety of colors. Finally, you’ll want to take into account the amount of color variation in the siding. The more color variation there is in the siding, the less there should be in the roof. By the same token, if the color of the siding is very uniform, then you can get away with more variation in the roof.

 

Size Of The House

The height of the house can make a big difference to the overall effect the roof creates. Dark colors are more eye-catching than lighter ones. This means that very dark shingles on a single-story house, such as a bungalow, can make the roof stand out unpleasantly. On the other hand, since the roof can comprise up to 40% of a home’s visible exterior, a very light roof on a substantial, multistory house can make the house look washed out or bland. The best shingle color choice is one that allows the roof to fit together with the size of the house in a way that looks blended and balanced. 

For example, dark shingles on a two-story Colonial or Victorian-style home can look elegant, while light shingles may be a better choice for a ranch-style home. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what will complement the other features of your home.

 

Architectural Style

When choosing a roof color, homeowners should take into account the style and period of their home. For example, grand 19th-century homes look most stylish when paired with black and dark brown roof materials. These attention-drawing dark colors look appropriate to the traditional majesty of this style. On the other hand, natural clay tones, like rusty reds and oranges look great on the more modern, stucco-sided homes that are iconic of Florida and the Southwest. Ultimately, the right roof color can help to enhance the curb appeal of any home.

 

Environment

The colors of the rest of the house are not the only factor to consider when choosing an attractive roof color. The colors that dominate in the surroundings can also make a big difference in how the roof color sets off the overall look of the house. For example, blue roofs blend into the surroundings nicely when a home is situated near the water, making blue a great choice for beach houses. 

Similarly, homes nestled in spaces where greenery dominates, such as a cottage tucked away in the woods, look like part of the environment when a deep green roof is selected. In this way, taking cues from the surrounding landscape can help to create a harmonious and visually pleasing overall aesthetic.

 

Climate

Most people choose the roof for their home based on aesthetic considerations. After all, the roof is one of the most visible features of a house, and it can have a big impact on curb appeal. However, there are also some practical considerations that should be taken into account when selecting a roof. 

For example, the color of the roof can have an impact on the cost of heating and cooling a home. Dark roofs absorb heat, while light roofs reflect it. As a result, a dark roof can make the attic of a home up to 40 degrees hotter than the temperature in an adjacent one with a lighter roof on a hot day. Homeowners in a hot climate can significantly lower their AC costs by choosing the lightest roof color that works well with the aesthetic features of their home.

 

Neighborhood Guidelines

The style of your home’s roof can say a lot about the overall design of your house. If you live in a neighborhood with mostly historic homes, your roofing style might be quite different from the houses that are being built today. When choosing a new roof, it can be helpful to look at the architectural style of your neighborhood for inspiration. 

However, in some cases you may be required to follow certain guidelines set forth by your Homeowners Association. In these cases, it is best to choose a more traditional or neutral color for your roof. If you live in a stricter neighborhood, be sure to ask permission before choosing an off-brand color. By following these tips, you can ensure that your new roof will complement the style of your home and neighborhood.

 

Siding Colors

House sidings come in a variety of colors, and each color has its own set of benefits and drawbacks. Some people might prefer a light color because it makes their home look bigger, while others might prefer a darker color to hide any dirt or stains.

There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a house siding color. First, think about the surrounding neighborhood. If most of the houses in your neighborhood are white, you might want to choose a different color for your house so it doesn’t stick out like a sore thumb. Second, think about how the color will affect your home’s resale value. A light blue or green might not be as popular as a white or black siding, so keep that in mind if you’re thinking about selling your house in the future.

If you are looking for a bright and bold color, then you may want to consider using a color like yellow or red. These colors are sure to grab attention and make your home stand out from the rest. However, if you are looking for something more subtle, then you may want to consider using a light tan or green. These colors will help your home blend in with its surroundings, while still adding a touch of personality.

No matter what color you choose, be sure to research the different types of siding that are available. There are many different materials that can be used for sidings, so you will want to find the one that will best suit your needs. Vinyl siding is a popular choice because it is durable and easy to maintain, but there are also many other options available.

Finally, think about the climate where you live. If you live in a hot climate, you might want to avoid dark colors, which can trap heat and make your home uncomfortable. Conversely, if you live in a cold climate, you might want to choose a dark color to help keep your home warm.

 

Professional Advice

The final piece of advice for choosing a roof or siding color is to seek professional guidance. A reputable roofing company can be invaluable when making this decision, as they can offer insightful tips and suggestions based on your home’s style and design. In addition, contractors will usually have plenty of photos of past projects to show you, which can give you a good sense of how the roof will look in real life. Ultimately, by taking the time to consult with a professional, you can be confident that you are choosing a roof color that will complement your home and provide lasting beauty and protection.

A new roof is a big investment, so you want to be sure to choose a roof color that will complement the design of your home and boost its value. A good place to start is by looking at your home’s exterior paint colors and choosing a roof color that will accent or contrast with those colors. You can also look at other houses in your neighborhood for inspiration. Online blogs and design magazines are other great sources of inspiration. When in doubt, ask your roofing contractor what they recommend for the best roof color. With a little bit of research, you can be confident that you’ll choose a roof or siding color palette that will give your home the perfect finishing touch.

 

Reach out to us to learn more about how Exteriors Plus can help with your new roofing or siding project!

The Most Frequent Roofing Problems in the Winter and How to Fix Them

In general, winter is not kind to structures, whether they are homes or businesses. Weather conditions, such as snow, ice, and severe winds, can cause significant damage to a roof. Consequently, roofing in the winter is a delicate endeavor. Roofing installations and repairs in the winter need to take into account a wide range of environmental factors, as well as the potential for poor weather to wreak havoc.

Roofing problems during the winter are typical in the northern Midwest, the northeast, and the Great Plains. Property owners should check on their roofs frequently from the time snow begins to fall until the thaw in the spring. Problems with the roof can be repaired more quickly and with less risk if they are caught early.

 

Winter Roofing Problems

The key to successful prevention is developing the ability to spot winter roofing difficulties. Sadly, a substantial proportion of property owners are unaware of the indicators that might suggest the existence of a problem on their land. The following is a comprehensive list of typical roofing problems that can be easily spotted during the winter months, along with suggestions for how to avoid them.

1. Condensation

One of the most prevalent winter roofing problems that goes unnoticed by property owners is condensation that occurs as a result of poor ventilation. When warm air from the interior of a building comes into contact with the cold surface of the underside of a roof that has been exposed to cold winter temperatures, condensation can form. It is possible that it will result in a musty odor in addition to the growth of mold and mildew.

WHAT TO DO TO AVOID ROOF CONDENSATION:

Ventilating the roof in an appropriate manner is the most effective method for preventing condensation on roofs. The installation of ventilation enables the greatest possible movement of air. The amount of warm air that is allowed to come into contact with the chilly roof is decreased, which helps to prevent condensation.

 

2. Ice Dams

Temperature fluctuations are what lead to the formation of ice dams. When the upper areas of the roof are warm enough to melt the snow that has accumulated on the roof but the lower portions of the roof remain below freezing, an ice dam will form. A dam of ice forms at the point where the edge of the roof meets the gutter system as a result of water running down the roof and finally freezing.

HOW TO AVOID ICE DAMS:

In order to avoid the formation of ice dams, it is necessary to insulate and ventilate the top areas of the roof. This will prevent the upper portions of the roof from becoming too heated. However, insulation should not be crammed up against the roof in such a way that it restricts air flow; doing so would only serve to promote condensation.

 

3. Icicles

Icicles form when water from melted snow runs down the roof and begins to drip from the gutters. During its descent, temperatures are just cold enough to freeze the water. Icicles form and, if the problem is not corrected, continue to grow in length.

HOW TO STOP ICICLE FORMATION ON GUTTERS:

Icicles form when water from melted snow travels down the roof and begins to drip from the gutters. This causes the water to freeze and harden into icicles. During its descent, temperatures reach a point where they are just low enough to cause the water to freeze. Icicles begin to form, and if the underlying issue is not resolved, they will keep growing longer.

 

4. Flashing Leaks

Flashing is composed of all of those pieces of aluminum that are placed around chimneys, vents, pipes, and the edges of roofs. In order to prevent moisture from getting through the spaces that are left between roofing materials and exposed subsurfaces, flashing is created to bridge those spaces. It is susceptible to damage by strong winds and the production of ice.

HOW TO REDUCE FLASHING LEAKS:

The freeze-thaw cycle causes flashing leaks, which are extremely common throughout the winter months. When age-related corrosion begins to set in, flashing is also susceptible to damage. In order to prevent flashing leaks during the winter, it is necessary to evaluate the flashing and make repairs prior to the arrival of winter, ice, and wind.

 

5. Strong Winds and Severe Weather

During the winter months, roofing suffers damage from not only high winds but also harsh weather. Strong winds can lift or peel back shingles, cause damage to flashing, and force moisture into roof vents. Strong winds can also damage the flashing. Unfortunately, there is not much that property owners can do to protect their homes and businesses against damage caused by wind or other acts of nature. The prudent thing to do is to keep an eye on the forecast for severe weather and make preparations in advance so that you won’t be caught off guard when it finally arrives.

 

6. Tree Limbs

Roofing work performed in the wintertime is always dependent on the natural conditions. For instance, a property that is densely forested with a large number of mature trees is one on which tree limbs present yet another threat to roofing materials. The rough surface of asphalt shingles can be scraped off by tree limbs, and they can also pull shingles up and allow moisture to get underneath them. The impact of large tree limbs that have traveled a significant distance can even puncture roofing materials.

PREVENTING TREE LIMB DAMAGE:

It is simple to protect your property from harm caused by tree limbs by performing tree trimming in the summer and fall. Any branches that are closer than six feet to the roof should have the appropriate trimming done to them.

 

7. Squirrels and Rats

The presence of rodents and squirrels on your roof throughout the winter presents a challenge that may not be immediately visible. If there is even the tiniest hole in any section of the roof, these vermin will find a way to get in and make themselves at home. Squirrels and rats will have no trouble nibbling their way through an opening that exists but isn’t quite large enough for them to enter.

KEEPING CRITTERS OUT:

In order to prevent animals from entering attic spaces, the roof must first be inspected, and then any potential entry points must be sealed off. It is highly recommended that this task be completed before the onset of winter weather.

  

How to Address Roofing Concerns During the Winter

In the event that you do not have previous experience roofing in the winter, it is strongly recommended that you contact a professional roofing contractor in order to address the problems that have been outlined above. Roofing is a dangerous job at any time of the year, but working on a roof during the winter is especially hazardous. Roof problems can be fixed safely in the winter by a professional roofer with the right knowledge and experience.

Exteriors Plus is widely regarded as the industry’s best roofing contractor. We offer the highest possible level of quality and service for any roofing, siding, or gutter work you want, and we have been recognized as one of the best companies in Minnesota. Check out the fantastic feedback we’ve received from our happy clients.

Give us a call today to schedule a free estimate!

6 Most Effective Ways To Prevent Ice Dams This Winter

Winter is about to come, and surely you have prepared the coziest blankets and the fireplace to keep you warm. But have you also prepared things to protect your roofs from stubborn ice damage?

If not, then you better read this article until the end. 

 Ice dams can cause serious damage to your home, especially on the roofs, ceilings and walls, that can lead to costly repairs. Thankfully you don’t have to bother with that when you follow the six most effective ways to prevent ice dams this winter.

 

What Is Ice Damming?

But first, let us understand what Ice dams are and how they form to come up with ways to prevent them from happening.

Ice dams can cause the water to back up, flood your home, rip off the gutters, and lose the shingles. The effects include stained and sagging ceilings, warped floors, and flaking paint. Not to mention damp attic insulation, which lowers its value and attracts mold and mildew.

They can develop after a significant snowfall when warm attic air reaches the roof and melts the snow. When the water reaches a cooler area of the lower roof or if the air temperature drops significantly, it flows off the roof and refreezes. 

As a result, the water backs up near the roof’s edge and accumulates as a mound of ice, driving it up beneath the shingles. Water can occasionally creep five to ten feet up under the shingles.

 

Why Is Fixing Ice Dams So Expensive?

When you have ice damming, your roof’s shingles frequently crack and become loose. Unfortunately, replacing the roof might be necessary, which is not cheap. You’ll probably also need to replace some wet plasterboard and insulation in your walls and ceilings. 

Additionally, you might have to repaint,  replace or repair furniture or damaged flooring.Not only is there a lot of repairing to be done, but it also must be done in a specific order, beginning at the roof and moving lower.

So is there a way to prevent these from happening? Thankfully yes! 

 

6 Most Effective Ways To Prevent Ice Dams

Insurance companies spend millions of dollars annually to repair home damage caused by ice jams. Save your money and your time by preventing the problem from happening.

Here are the six most effective ways that you can do to prevent ice dams from damaging your properties.

1. Clean The Gutters

One easy way to prevent ice dams from forming on your roof during winter is to keep your gutters clear of debris like twigs and leaves. Make sure there is a pathway for melting snow to move off your roof to prevent the creation of ice dams.

 2. Insulate And Ventilate Your Attic Well

You might want to hire an expert to perform an energy analysis and examine the thickness and uniformity of the insulation. 

  • Insulation. Keep your roof below 30 degrees Fahrenheit to avoid snow melting, leading to ice dams. Your attic insulation must prevent warm air from rising to the roof.  Check insulation is not damaged in the rafters’ gaps and the attic floor.

The attic entrance, heating pipes, vent fans, and inset ceiling lights attached to the room are additional places to inspect the insulation. Any area that radiates heat into the attic should be adequately sealed and insulated.

  • Ventilation. Ensuring the attic is adequately ventilated is another technique to stop heated air from building up. There are several advantages to having efficient attic ventilation, including distributing air evenly and creating good air quality. 

Better soffit systems are frequently used as a fix for homes that don’t have adequate ventilation systems. Your home’s ventilation system impacts many different areas. Therefore, choosing the proper type should be determined by a professional inspection.

3. Seal Leaked Air

Warm air should be circulated throughout your home during the winter, but you should avoid overheating the attic. When warm air hits the roof, snow melts, and ice dams start to form. Seal gaps to prevent warm air from leaking into the attic, and ensure the covering between the chimney and roof is functioning correctly.

4. Put Heat Cables

Installing heat cables is a long-term ice dam prevention strategy. The cables are strategically positioned over your roof’s sections where water tends to collect. They produce warm channels that let the water leave the surface of your roof before it freezes. 

Be aware that heat cables use electricity and will increase your energy costs if you decide to use them. However, there are heat cables that regulate themselves and use less energy by allowing you to switch them on and off. 

5. Get A Snow Rake

The most simple approach for occasional heavy snowfalls is a snow rake. It is an aluminum scraper on an extendable metal pole at a right angle. Snow can’t melt and create an ice dam if you drag it down. It works well, albeit tediously, but only on single-story homes. Just be careful to use it correctly to prevent roof damage.

6. Use Ice Dam Prevention Products

As their name suggests, ice is melted quickly by these products.  Avoid rock salt, though, since it can harm your roof’s shingles, concrete, and landscaping. Using a non-corrosive, chloride-free natural ice melt to get rid of snow is preferable. Consider the following products.

  • Ice Belts. Ice belts are thin aluminum panels mounted along the roof line to help soffit vents shed snow.  Because ice dams can form above the top of the panel edging, they are best for protecting specific areas.
  • Calcium Chloride Ice Melts. Fill pantyhose placed along ice dam regions with this ice melt product. The pills can also be thrown onto the roof, although spreading them along the eaves with a ladder is more effective. Use only calcium chloride ice melt formulated specifically for use on rooftops.

Conclusion

Make the winter season a relaxing time in your home by ensuring that all your properties are well protected from the possible damage caused by ice dams. You can follow the six most effective ways to prevent ice dams above. Alternatively, you can also place your trust in the hands of the experts.

Exteriors Plus is the premiere savage roofing contractor. Nominated as one of Minnesota’s best, we cover all your roofing, siding, or window needs with the utmost quality and service. Check out our excellent reviews from their satisfied customers. Give us a call today to get a free estimate!