Of course, stucco does come with a few disadvantages.
Stucco is expensive
In the grand scheme of siding materials, siding can certainly cost a pretty penny. Those with limited home improvement budgets might find that stucco is, unfortunately, out of reach.
A longer installation process
Stucco is one of the more difficult materials to install, and as a result, stucco installation tends to take longer than the average vinyl or wood siding installation. Homeowners who wish to have stucco siding installed should prepare themselves for a few extra days of construction.
And a few quick specifics
Cement stucco is extremely rigid. So if the foundation of the home on which it is installed begins to shift, then the stucco is likely to crack. Synthetic stucco is less rigid but has been known to trap moisture, causing walls to become rotted and degraded. In addition, synthetic stucco has been blamed for mold problems arising in homes with moisture damage. The good news is that installation techniques have improved to reduce the chances of these types of problems. Additionally, modern-day synthetic stucco is now fitted with a grooved foam backing that allows moisture to properly drain out.
The bottom line
Stucco provides the perfect combination of durability and aesthetic appeal. While it does have its drawbacks, stucco can instantly work to increase the value of one's home. If your budget allows for it, then treat yourself to the timeless elegance and curb appeal that has become synonymous with stucco.
Monday, October 4, 2010
Friday, October 1, 2010
What is Stucco?
Within the world of siding, stucco is regarded as one of the most elegant, stylish materials available on the market. Traditional stucco siding is made by combining Portland cement, sand, lime, and water. This mixture is then applied, sometimes in multiple coats, for a household exterior that is both durable and eye-catching.
Many consumers don't realize that there are actually two types of stucco presently in use. The first is what people might refer to as the "real" stucco, since it's the same type that's been around for years. "Real" stucco, also known as cement stucco, is a solid material that gets directly applied to the surface of a home for an almost rock-like covering. By contrast, the new, synthetic form of stucco is much more hollow than its cement counterpart. Synthetic stucco consists of foam board materials that are applied to the surface of the home and then given a classic stucco finish. While the two types of stucco are quite similar in appearance, synthetic stucco offers the added benefit of superb insulation.
Of course, as is the case with all siding materials, stucco comes with its own specific set of pros and cons. First, the advantages:
Stucco is resilient and long-lasting
When it comes to siding materials, stucco is certainly one of the most durable. Stucco is heat and fire resistant, which makes it not only strong, but safe. Additionally, stucco usually comes with a weather-resistant finish that minimizes cracks and helps it withstand the test of time.
Many consumers don't realize that there are actually two types of stucco presently in use. The first is what people might refer to as the "real" stucco, since it's the same type that's been around for years. "Real" stucco, also known as cement stucco, is a solid material that gets directly applied to the surface of a home for an almost rock-like covering. By contrast, the new, synthetic form of stucco is much more hollow than its cement counterpart. Synthetic stucco consists of foam board materials that are applied to the surface of the home and then given a classic stucco finish. While the two types of stucco are quite similar in appearance, synthetic stucco offers the added benefit of superb insulation.
Of course, as is the case with all siding materials, stucco comes with its own specific set of pros and cons. First, the advantages:
Stucco is resilient and long-lasting
When it comes to siding materials, stucco is certainly one of the most durable. Stucco is heat and fire resistant, which makes it not only strong, but safe. Additionally, stucco usually comes with a weather-resistant finish that minimizes cracks and helps it withstand the test of time.
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Looking for Wall Siding?
One of the best ways to protect the exterior of your home is to make use of wall siding on the walls of your home. You can also use these tiles on the roof as they are water resistant and also do not transmit outer temperature to the rooms. Thus they can help you maintain your room temperature for long time. People have been using this technique to protect their homes from harsh and severe weather long ago in the history. However, its shapes and types have undergone a number of changes to maximize the benefit of such covering for walls of your home.
The first most important feature of wall siding tiles is that they come in different designs, shapes and colors. Also they differ in quality and durability. But accordingly, their price also varies. However, this enables you to select the wall tiles according to your choice living within your budget. Secondly, these tiles are also durable and can protect your home from changing weather for a long time. You do not require to replace them every year or so. This is definitely a money saving feature of these wall siding tiles.
Another beneficial feature of vinyl insulated tiles, which is actually very important, is that they can help you lower your monthly energy bills. It seems quite strange but believe me it is really possible to save a lot of money on your utility bills. It is because when you use insulated vinyl sidings on your roof and walls, they prevent outer temperature to transmit in your rooms and thus your cooling or heating device will work less, which will ultimately reduce your monthly expenditure on gas or electricity charges. There are also a number of other beneficial features of siding tiles like easy to maintain, low cost installation, good looking and so on.
Queens · Arverne · Astoria · Bayside NY · Bayside Hills · Belle Harbor · Bellerose · Bellerose Harbor · Bellerose Manor · Bellrs Manor · Breezy Point · College Point · Corona · Douglaston · East Elmhurst · Elmhurst · Floral Park NY · Flushing · Forest Hills · Fresh Meodows · Glen Oaks · Hollis · Howard Beach · Jackson Heights · Laurelton · Little Neck · Maspeth · Middle Village · Ozone Park · Queens Village · Rego Park · Richmond Hills · Rockaway Beach ·NY· Z Ozone Park · S Richmond · Saint Albans · South Ozone Park · Springfield Gardens · Whitestone · Woodside · Rosedale · Woodhaven
The first most important feature of wall siding tiles is that they come in different designs, shapes and colors. Also they differ in quality and durability. But accordingly, their price also varies. However, this enables you to select the wall tiles according to your choice living within your budget. Secondly, these tiles are also durable and can protect your home from changing weather for a long time. You do not require to replace them every year or so. This is definitely a money saving feature of these wall siding tiles.
Another beneficial feature of vinyl insulated tiles, which is actually very important, is that they can help you lower your monthly energy bills. It seems quite strange but believe me it is really possible to save a lot of money on your utility bills. It is because when you use insulated vinyl sidings on your roof and walls, they prevent outer temperature to transmit in your rooms and thus your cooling or heating device will work less, which will ultimately reduce your monthly expenditure on gas or electricity charges. There are also a number of other beneficial features of siding tiles like easy to maintain, low cost installation, good looking and so on.
Queens · Arverne · Astoria · Bayside NY · Bayside Hills · Belle Harbor · Bellerose · Bellerose Harbor · Bellerose Manor · Bellrs Manor · Breezy Point · College Point · Corona · Douglaston · East Elmhurst · Elmhurst · Floral Park NY · Flushing · Forest Hills · Fresh Meodows · Glen Oaks · Hollis · Howard Beach · Jackson Heights · Laurelton · Little Neck · Maspeth · Middle Village · Ozone Park · Queens Village · Rego Park · Richmond Hills · Rockaway Beach ·NY· Z Ozone Park · S Richmond · Saint Albans · South Ozone Park · Springfield Gardens · Whitestone · Woodside · Rosedale · Woodhaven
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Cedar Shake Siding; A Revolution
Cedar shake siding weathers to an attractive rustic look on a home or building, and is an extremely popular siding style for coastal homes. However, given siding prices, you may want to consider doing the work yourself. While working around windows and doors takes finesse and flashing know-how, a few simple tips can get you going. All you need are some cedar shakes, nails, and a few tools, and you can be well on your way to becoming a cedar shake siding installer.
Getting Started on a Cedar Shake Siding Installation
The first step in getting ready for your shake siding installation is to make sure your surface is ready. Old siding should be removed, and it can be a good idea to install a new water resistant barrier on your home or building. The barrier is usually available in different sized rolls; choose one that is easy to work with.
Install your trim boards at the corners of the building and around any windows and doors. Cedar lumber can make attractive trim boards for cedar shake siding, and you can either paint them for a contrasting appearance or use the same finish you plan to use on the shakes.
Install a starter strip of shingles along the lowest point of the building you expect your shingles to cover. This starter strip is covered by your cedar shakes, so it can be a different type of material. The starter strip holds the first row of shakes out to match the shakes overlapping other shakes.
You now know how to install siding, and ready to start your cedar shake siding project! The materials you may need for the project are:
* Cedar shakes
* Tape measure
* Chalk line
* 6 D Galvanized nails
* Jigsaw
* A portable table saw can be handy
Install your first row of shakes and work your way up the side of the building. You have the choice of keeping each row of shakes even, or stagger the bottom edges for an even more rustic look. Use two nails in the top of each shingle so they are concealed by the next row of shingles. Use your jigsaw to trim shakes as needed.
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Getting Started on a Cedar Shake Siding Installation
The first step in getting ready for your shake siding installation is to make sure your surface is ready. Old siding should be removed, and it can be a good idea to install a new water resistant barrier on your home or building. The barrier is usually available in different sized rolls; choose one that is easy to work with.
Install your trim boards at the corners of the building and around any windows and doors. Cedar lumber can make attractive trim boards for cedar shake siding, and you can either paint them for a contrasting appearance or use the same finish you plan to use on the shakes.
Install a starter strip of shingles along the lowest point of the building you expect your shingles to cover. This starter strip is covered by your cedar shakes, so it can be a different type of material. The starter strip holds the first row of shakes out to match the shakes overlapping other shakes.
You now know how to install siding, and ready to start your cedar shake siding project! The materials you may need for the project are:
* Cedar shakes
* Tape measure
* Chalk line
* 6 D Galvanized nails
* Jigsaw
* A portable table saw can be handy
Install your first row of shakes and work your way up the side of the building. You have the choice of keeping each row of shakes even, or stagger the bottom edges for an even more rustic look. Use two nails in the top of each shingle so they are concealed by the next row of shingles. Use your jigsaw to trim shakes as needed.
affordable roofing contractors - bronx ny - affordable new construction - woodland - residential construction company - brooklyn ny - low-cost building contractors - queens ny - residential roof replacement - residential construction - commercial roof replacement - commercial construction specialists - commercial construction company - remodeling contractors - low-cost - affordable contractors - licensed building contractors - brooklyn - roofing - bronx - gutters - queens - new siding installation - leaky roof repairs - exterior home improvement contractors - soffits - redo roof residential - rain gutter experts - richmond hills - residential gutter maintenance - quality contracting services - home improvement contractors - affordable home imrprovement services - low-cost siding repairs - hamilton - melrose - home maintenance experts
Saturday, September 25, 2010
Tips for Maintaining Your Roof
Taking care of roofing may be the most important property maintenance job you do all year. A damaged roof will only get worse over time, and could end up costing big money if it's not taken care of. To prevent long-term and costly damage, follow these top five tips for roofing maintenance.
1. Inspect your roof regularly
If you can see your roof from the ground, it's sensible to take a good look at it from time to time, probably at least twice a year, so that you will notice when something starts to go wrong. Binoculars may be useful, as can taking a look from a neighbor's property. Look out for loose or missing tiles in particular, and see if the roof is suffering from wear and tear. Check that the chimney flashings are intact and that there are no missing sections to the guttering.
2. Look out for problem vegetation
Vegetation such as moss growing in the guttering can cause real property maintenance problems over time. You can probably see if there are pebbles or moss clogging up the roof itself or any sections of the guttering, if so, these need to be cleared away to stop them causing real problems. Moss, for example, may retain moisture and damage the roof covering in the winter months. A job like this is far easier to do during the summer months.
3. Act quickly
Where there is a clear problem, such as a leaking roof, it is important to act fast as roofing maintenance issues can spiral in magnitude and cost over time if not properly addressed. Have missing slates or shingles replaces before further damage, for example to plaster ceilings or roof timbers, occurs. Other warning signs to look out for include daylight penetration, debris on the ground from broken shingles or slates, and signs of mortar droppings in the gutters or gullies. If you use a fuel fire, smoke exiting through brickwork or at the base of chimney pots may also point to serious roofing maintenance needs.
4. Bring in the experts
Amateur roofing maintenance work can be dangerous and costly. If in doubt, ask a surveyor for advice or bring in the experts and get the job done properly by an accredited roofing maintenance team. Genuine roofing experts are often accredited by The National Federation of Roofing Contractors, The Guild of Master Craftsmen or The Federation of Master Builders - look out for these certifications before choosing your team. Unskilled labor or quick-fix options are likely to lead to greater costs in the long run. Expert advice may be required if you have leaning chimneys or pots, and unusual roofing coverings such as lead or thatch may need to be inspected by specialists.
5. Get a few quotes
To make sure you find the right people to take care of your roofing maintenance, don't be afraid to ask for a few quotes from local property maintenance experts. That doesn't always mean going for the cheapest option, however - always take into account the experience and reputation of the roofers you are employing.
Bronx · Belmont · Concourse · Concourse Village · Mount Eden NY · Fordham · Mott Haven · Port Morris · Melrose · · East Morrisania NY · Hunts Point · Longwood · Highbridge · Morris Heights · Tremont/East Tremont · · University Heights · West Farms · Riverdale · Fieldston · Spuytem Duyvil/South Riverdale NY· Central Riverdale · Hudson Hill · North Riverdale · Kingsbridge · Kingsbridge Heights · Marble Hill · Woodland NY · Bedford · Fordham-Bedford · Morrisania · Mount Hope NY · Northwood
1. Inspect your roof regularly
If you can see your roof from the ground, it's sensible to take a good look at it from time to time, probably at least twice a year, so that you will notice when something starts to go wrong. Binoculars may be useful, as can taking a look from a neighbor's property. Look out for loose or missing tiles in particular, and see if the roof is suffering from wear and tear. Check that the chimney flashings are intact and that there are no missing sections to the guttering.
2. Look out for problem vegetation
Vegetation such as moss growing in the guttering can cause real property maintenance problems over time. You can probably see if there are pebbles or moss clogging up the roof itself or any sections of the guttering, if so, these need to be cleared away to stop them causing real problems. Moss, for example, may retain moisture and damage the roof covering in the winter months. A job like this is far easier to do during the summer months.
3. Act quickly
Where there is a clear problem, such as a leaking roof, it is important to act fast as roofing maintenance issues can spiral in magnitude and cost over time if not properly addressed. Have missing slates or shingles replaces before further damage, for example to plaster ceilings or roof timbers, occurs. Other warning signs to look out for include daylight penetration, debris on the ground from broken shingles or slates, and signs of mortar droppings in the gutters or gullies. If you use a fuel fire, smoke exiting through brickwork or at the base of chimney pots may also point to serious roofing maintenance needs.
4. Bring in the experts
Amateur roofing maintenance work can be dangerous and costly. If in doubt, ask a surveyor for advice or bring in the experts and get the job done properly by an accredited roofing maintenance team. Genuine roofing experts are often accredited by The National Federation of Roofing Contractors, The Guild of Master Craftsmen or The Federation of Master Builders - look out for these certifications before choosing your team. Unskilled labor or quick-fix options are likely to lead to greater costs in the long run. Expert advice may be required if you have leaning chimneys or pots, and unusual roofing coverings such as lead or thatch may need to be inspected by specialists.
5. Get a few quotes
To make sure you find the right people to take care of your roofing maintenance, don't be afraid to ask for a few quotes from local property maintenance experts. That doesn't always mean going for the cheapest option, however - always take into account the experience and reputation of the roofers you are employing.
Bronx · Belmont · Concourse · Concourse Village · Mount Eden NY · Fordham · Mott Haven · Port Morris · Melrose · · East Morrisania NY · Hunts Point · Longwood · Highbridge · Morris Heights · Tremont/East Tremont · · University Heights · West Farms · Riverdale · Fieldston · Spuytem Duyvil/South Riverdale NY· Central Riverdale · Hudson Hill · North Riverdale · Kingsbridge · Kingsbridge Heights · Marble Hill · Woodland NY · Bedford · Fordham-Bedford · Morrisania · Mount Hope NY · Northwood
Friday, September 24, 2010
Choosing Your Vinyl Siding
When it comes to any home building decisions, most homeowners take aesthetics, durability, and cost into account. Deciding on siding is no different. Vinyl siding comes from many manufacturers with different qualities. After quality of the siding product, the professionalism of the Denver siding company is the next most important, because you want the materials to be installed right, and have the peace of mind in knowing that the company will fix any problems they may cause.
Even within the same vinyl siding company, there is significant variation among products. The most important aspect is panel thickness. Vinyl is a very weather resistant material. It is also flexible, and installing siding that is too thin may result in being able to see the wall underneath poking through. I have also witnessed many instances of Denver vinyl siding being punctured relatively easily. The material survives weather well, but physical wear and tear can destroy vinyl quickly, especially if it is of the thinner variety. Only a tenth of an inch more can make a great difference with vinyl, so ask your Denver vinyl siding company for a cost breakdown for an upgrade. Upgrading the quality or thickness of the material should not cost all that much more overall.
Vinyl siding made by cheap companies sometimes stiffens with age, which can lead to cracks. This is another reason to get thicker siding. If you pick a smaller company and a unique color, you may be in for some major problems if the siding gets damages and you want a localized replacement. The probability that the same company is still carrying a matching replacement is not so good. So most siding contractors recommend you pick a trusted company in simple colors and design. This does not mean you have to go with off-white but consult with your contractor on a siding manufacturer you both trust.
Queens · Arverne · Astoria · Bayside NY · Bayside Hills · Belle Harbor · Bellerose · Bellerose Harbor · Bellerose Manor · Bellrs Manor · Breezy Point · College Point · Corona · Douglaston · East Elmhurst · Elmhurst · Floral Park NY · Flushing · Forest Hills · Fresh Meodows · Glen Oaks · Hollis · Howard Beach · Jackson Heights · Laurelton · Little Neck · Maspeth · Middle Village · Ozone Park · Queens Village · Rego Park · Richmond Hills · Rockaway Beach ·NY· Z Ozone Park · S Richmond · Saint Albans · South Ozone Park · Springfield Gardens · Whitestone · Woodside · Rosedale · Woodhaven
Even within the same vinyl siding company, there is significant variation among products. The most important aspect is panel thickness. Vinyl is a very weather resistant material. It is also flexible, and installing siding that is too thin may result in being able to see the wall underneath poking through. I have also witnessed many instances of Denver vinyl siding being punctured relatively easily. The material survives weather well, but physical wear and tear can destroy vinyl quickly, especially if it is of the thinner variety. Only a tenth of an inch more can make a great difference with vinyl, so ask your Denver vinyl siding company for a cost breakdown for an upgrade. Upgrading the quality or thickness of the material should not cost all that much more overall.
Vinyl siding made by cheap companies sometimes stiffens with age, which can lead to cracks. This is another reason to get thicker siding. If you pick a smaller company and a unique color, you may be in for some major problems if the siding gets damages and you want a localized replacement. The probability that the same company is still carrying a matching replacement is not so good. So most siding contractors recommend you pick a trusted company in simple colors and design. This does not mean you have to go with off-white but consult with your contractor on a siding manufacturer you both trust.
Queens · Arverne · Astoria · Bayside NY · Bayside Hills · Belle Harbor · Bellerose · Bellerose Harbor · Bellerose Manor · Bellrs Manor · Breezy Point · College Point · Corona · Douglaston · East Elmhurst · Elmhurst · Floral Park NY · Flushing · Forest Hills · Fresh Meodows · Glen Oaks · Hollis · Howard Beach · Jackson Heights · Laurelton · Little Neck · Maspeth · Middle Village · Ozone Park · Queens Village · Rego Park · Richmond Hills · Rockaway Beach ·NY· Z Ozone Park · S Richmond · Saint Albans · South Ozone Park · Springfield Gardens · Whitestone · Woodside · Rosedale · Woodhaven
Monday, September 20, 2010
Looking for a Metal Roof?
When it's time to get your roof replaced on your commercial property you may want to consider the option of a metal roof. A metal roof has a longer life span than a shingle roof because it is less complex than a shingle roof. With a traditional shingle roof, regardless of what type of material is used, the system has several potential areas for future problems occurring.
If the shingles are not laid correctly water can find a path in and create leaks and water damage. If nails are not hammered in all the way a good windstorm can lift them up and create a path for water to enter. Flashings around vents and the fireplace have to be caulked in correctly or again there is yet another entry point for water damage. Plus in order to replace a roof the old roof must be torn off. That's a lot of shingles, nails and tar paper in a landfill not degrading as they take up precious space. A metal roof on the other hand can be laid on top of an existing roof eliminating not only the waste of putting a roof in the landfill but also in not paying for the labor to have the roof removed in the first place.
It does not matter what the old roof looked like or functioned like it will not affect the ability of the new roof- the metal one to do its job of looking good and preventing the elements from getting into your building.
And let's face it you want and need the best roof possible for your commercial building. Water damage from leaks can create havoc on office equipment, including the multitude of computers, printers, fax machines and telephones that are in the typical office space. A metal roof is not going to develop the same problematic conditions that a traditional roof will and it will be maintenance free.
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If the shingles are not laid correctly water can find a path in and create leaks and water damage. If nails are not hammered in all the way a good windstorm can lift them up and create a path for water to enter. Flashings around vents and the fireplace have to be caulked in correctly or again there is yet another entry point for water damage. Plus in order to replace a roof the old roof must be torn off. That's a lot of shingles, nails and tar paper in a landfill not degrading as they take up precious space. A metal roof on the other hand can be laid on top of an existing roof eliminating not only the waste of putting a roof in the landfill but also in not paying for the labor to have the roof removed in the first place.
It does not matter what the old roof looked like or functioned like it will not affect the ability of the new roof- the metal one to do its job of looking good and preventing the elements from getting into your building.
And let's face it you want and need the best roof possible for your commercial building. Water damage from leaks can create havoc on office equipment, including the multitude of computers, printers, fax machines and telephones that are in the typical office space. A metal roof is not going to develop the same problematic conditions that a traditional roof will and it will be maintenance free.
affordable roofing contractors - bronx ny - affordable new construction - woodland - residential construction company - brooklyn ny - low-cost building contractors - queens ny - residential roof replacement - residential construction - commercial roof replacement - commercial construction specialists - commercial construction company - remodeling contractors - low-cost - affordable contractors - licensed building contractors - brooklyn - roofing - bronx - gutters - queens - new siding installation - leaky roof repairs - exterior home improvement contractors - soffits - redo roof residential - rain gutter experts - richmond hills - residential gutter maintenance - quality contracting services - home improvement contractors - affordable home imrprovement services - low-cost siding repairs - hamilton - melrose - home maintenance experts
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