Replacing Vinyl Siding: When Is It Time?
Even top of the line siding won’t last forever. Vinyl siding is a popular choice for siding because it is affordable, requires minimal maintenance, and is highly durable.
ROOFING MATERIALS: SHINGLE ROOF VS METAL ROOF
Two of the most popular types of roofing materials are asphalt shingles and metal roofing. Many people want to know when it comes to a shingle roof vs metal roof, which one is better?
Will Insurance Replace My Roof If It’s Been Damaged By A Storm?
It is the worst nightmare for many homeowners. A storm blows through, and your roof takes the brunt of the damage from wind, hail, or worse, a fallen tree or tornado.
Different Types of Siding
How Much Does New Home Siding Cost?
The siding you choose for your home can have a huge impact on the curb appeal and how well your home is protected from the elements. There are so many different types of siding to choose from, so we have broken down the most common types that homeowners choose. Choosing the type of siding instillation that fits your home can be a big decision with how many materials, styles, and colors there are available today. Here is our take on seven popular styles and more information about types of siding, pricing, and general cost per square foot.
Vinyl Siding
Vinyl siding is one of the lower-cost options, making it popular among homeowners. The average cost of vinyl siding ranges from $1.50 to $8.50 per square foot, so it’s no surprise that approximately 30% of homes in the United States are protected by vinyl siding. It is also extremely durable, so it often lasts longer than a few other options, in many cases between 20-40 years. This siding is fade-resistant, insect-proof, and comes in a wide variety of textures, colors, and sizes, so you won’t be limited in expressing your style.
Fiber Cement Siding
Fiber cement siding is gaining popularity as a siding choice thanks to its affordability, durability, and weather resistance. Choose from plank, vertical, lap, shake, curved shake, or a geometric pattern. Fiber cement siding is one of the different types of siding that comes in a variety of styles. You can also get fiber cement siding that looks like stone, brick, or wood. On average, this type of siding can last 50 years or more thanks to its rot-resistant characteristics. It costs on average between $2.45 and $12.85 per square foot.
Hardie Board Siding
Hardie board is a type of fiber cement siding. It was created by the founder of fiber cement, James Hardie, in the 1970s. Many homeowners in coastal areas choose Hardie board siding because it can withstand salt spray from the ocean better than other types of siding. It is made of 90% cement and sand, making it fire-resistant, insect-resistant, and rot-resistant. At a price of $1-$6 per square foot, Hardie board siding is a great option.
Natural Wood Siding
The classic look of natural real wood siding is hard to beat. Choose from shakes, lap siding, clapboard, or shingles to cover your home’s exterior, but be prepared for more maintenance than a few of the different types of siding on the market. Natural wood siding requires regular upkeep to improve flame resistance and prevent termites from wreaking havoc. However, when properly maintained, natural wood siding with that beautiful wood grain texture can last up to 40 years. With a higher aesthetic value also comes a higher price tag of $6-$12 on average per square foot.
Aluminum Siding
Choosing aluminum siding is one of the most cost-effective ways to protect the exterior of your home. It goes for anywhere from $1.75 to $7 per square foot. This siding is lightweight, weather-resistant, eco-friendly, and easy to install. A benefit of aluminum metal siding is that it can withstand storms, mildew, insects, and corrosion well, but it is more prone to dents and scratches.
Brick Siding
Brick siding gives your home a traditional look with incredible weather resistance and durability. It will also not fade, rot, or burn even in extreme weather. Maintenance requirements are very low in the first 25 years of having brick siding, though the next 25 years require some inspection to ensure there is no deterioration in the mortar joints. Brick siding can add some natural insulation to your home, which may lower your energy costs through, on average, brick costs $5-$15 per square foot.
Natural Stone Siding
Natural stone siding is one of the different types of siding that is most sought after. It offers an incredibly high aesthetic appeal as well as extreme durability and resistance to fire, rot, severe weather, and insects. With a bit of low-maintenance cleaning every few years, natural stone siding can last 100 years or more. Be aware, though, that this beautiful siding option comes with a price tag of $30-$48 per square foot.
Get Superior Siding Solutions from Manor Roofing
The craftsmen at Manor Roofing & Restoration Services strive to make your home or building beautiful and energy-efficient while using environmentally friendly, sustainable products. Manor Roofing is partnered with the James Hardie Siding Manufacturing Company in their exclusive Associated Contractor Program to bring Mid-Missouri durable siding to withstand the harsh weather conditions and backed by a 30-year warranty. Contact Manor Roofing today to get a quote on your next siding project.
What To Do When You Have Hail Damage To Vinyl Siding
Assessing the Condition of Your Siding After a Hail Storm
When a storm blows through and pelts your home with hail, the first thing you may want to do when it’s over is check for damage. Identifying hail damage to vinyl siding is not always easy. Sometimes the damage is obvious, but often it can be subtle and difficult to see with an untrained eye. If you think you have hail damage, call a professional to do an inspection and help you determine your options for siding repairs. It is important to do a visual assessment of your siding after a hail storm. Only begin to do so after it is safe. If you don’t feel safe, schedule a professional siding inspection.
What Does the Damage Look Like?
Some hail damage may be very obvious. You might see large holes in your siding and pieces of siding scattered on the ground. You may also, unfortunately, have damaged windows, shutters, or doors. However, some hail damage to vinyl siding is less apparent. There may be cracks in siding that run parallel to the grain of the siding. This can make damage difficult to identify. Siding can have small chips at the bottom of the panel ridge. Siding cracks and chips can be underneath the panels.
How Old is Your Siding?
The older your siding gets, the more brittle it can become. Overtime, vinyl siding loses its flexibility and can become more susceptible to being cracked and damaged even during a mild hail storm.
What is the Quality of Your Siding?
Vinyl siding is rated by its grade or thickness. Vinyl siding can range in thicknesses from 0.35mm up to 0.55mm. The thinner your siding is, the higher the chances are that it will sustain damage from hail.
What is the Current Condition of Your Siding?
The condition and integrity of your siding can vary on any given side of your home. The southern facing side of your home is likely to get more sun, while the western facing siding may experience more wind and rain. These things can impact the durability of your siding and could make it more likely to become damaged by hail.
Get the Help of a Siding Professional
If you think there may be any damage to your siding, calling a professional is the next step to take. If you’re unsure whether or not there is damage, don’t worry, finding a siding company that does free inspections will allow you to get a professional assessment without being charged if there is no damage. A reputable company will make an honest assessment, so be sure to call a company you trust. If you think you will want to make an insurance claim for siding damage, you will need a professional inspection that includes any and all damage to your home caused by the hail.
What If I Don’t Call a Professional?
Leaving potential hail damage to vinyl siding untouched is not recommended. Even small cracks or holes in your siding can allow water to get in and result in more damage to your home that will inevitably be much more expensive to fix down the road. Leaving cracks unaddressed can result in those cracks multiplying as it is exposed to more wind, rain, and sun. If you wait too long, you may begin to have issues with mildew, mold, rot, and pests.
Call Manor Roofing to Inspect Your Siding
The professionals at Manor Roofing understand that your home’s siding serves a very important purpose, and repairing damaged siding swiftly is critical after a storm. Manor Roofing is partnered with James Hardie Siding through their Associated Contractor Program. The world-leading fiber cement siding and backer board company. They offer siding that is five times thicker than vinyl siding, making it resistant to hail damage and able to withstand winds up to 150 MPH. Call today at 573-445-4770 or visit the website to schedule a free estimate and assessment of the hail damage to your siding.
Learn More About Siding Insurance Claims
The Benefit of Window Replacement
When it comes to windows, the days of single-pane glass and plain wood frames are long gone. Previously simple construction components now showcase a surprising degree of sophistication thanks to design and manufacturing advances. As windows age, they can consume a significant amount of energy, appear outdated, and cause other issues in the home. The amount of benefit of window replacement is vast.
A new window instillation with picture windows can provide unobstructed views letting in more light. The type of window chosen in different areas of the home can completely transform a common area, dining room view, or bedroom.
When Should You Replace Your Windows?
Typically, the windows in your home have a lifespan of 15-20 years. After this point, the seals weaken or fail, which can expose you to a draft or water leakage. If your windows are approaching this age, it’s likely time to consider replacing them. Plus, 15+ years ago, single-pane windows were the norm, but modern-double pane windows have more insulation that single-pane just doesn’t. Aside from age, replacing your windows is a good idea if:
- Your windows are visibly damaged
- Your electric bill has gone up without another explanation
- Your windows are drafty
- Your windows don’t dampen sound
- Condensations forms on the inside of your windows
Benefits of Window Replacement
Save On Your Energy Bill
As a homeowner, you’re probably always looking for ways to reduce your monthly energy costs. This is a major benefit of window replacement. New windows are built to protect and preserve your home environment better than ever before. New windows are better insulated and decrease drafts, making them more energy-efficient. As a result, you’ll save money on your utility costs, reduce the stress on your heating or cooling system, and reduce your carbon footprint.
Reduce Noise
Many homeowners are shocked at how much quieter their home is after updating their windows. This may be a more unexpected benefit of window replacement, but your old windows may be letting a lot of unwanted noise into your home. Whether it’s noise from traffic, construction, or your neighbors, single-pane windows simply can’t keep noise out like double-pane or triple-pane windows can.
Enhance Your Curb Appeal and Home Value
New windows can do wonders for the curb appeal of your home, both outside and in. There are plenty of options to choose from when picking out new windows – fiberglass, wood, aluminum, or composite all come in a variety of colors and finishes to complement your existing style and color scheme or change things up to create a fresh look. Prospective buyers find new windows appealing since they know they won’t have to replace them for a long time. With new windows, potential homebuyers will also know that their energy bill will be lower. Replacing old wood windows with new ones is a popular replacement project. Wood windows are highly customizable to match existing wood within the home.
Reduce Allergens
How often do you take the time to clean your window blinds or curtains? It is a task that most homeowners put off until it’s absolutely necessary. A huge benefit of window replacement is that you can install windows with built-in shades or blinds. Having them sandwiched between the panes of glass means you can quickly and easily wipe the glass clean! Plus, you won’t have to worry about the cords hanging down and creating a hazard for kids and pets.
UV shades built in between the panes of glass cuts down on dust keeping the home cleaner, while improving energy efficiency, and keeping the home cooler.
Easy Maintenance
Keeping old windows clean and maintained can be a pain, but today’s newer windows make it much easier for any homeowner to keep them squeaky clean. Wooden window frames need refinishing every few years, while composite frames require so little upkeep that they’re practically maintenance-free. Vinyl windows never need new paint or refinishing and are easy to wipe down and will look great for years to come. Pella windows in vinyl are high performance sliding windows that are easy to open and close. Tilt-in window frames and sashes make it possible to clean the exterior of the windows while still inside the house, which is a huge plus.
Better Safety
New storm windows are frequently built of tempered glass or laminated glass, which are unlikely to shatter into sharp, jagged pieces if damaged. New windows may also have security measures such as locks and sensors that make them more difficult to force open or break into. It’s also worth noting that newer windows are more functional than older ones that may have been bent or possibly even painted shut. In the event of a house fire or other emergency, modern windows provide a potential escape route. Windows are either operable or fixed. An assessment should be done of all new windows that would need to be operable meaning they can be opened.
Ready to Replace Your Windows?
Every window that we install at Manor Roofing is a wise investment for your home. Our windows are energy-efficient, beautiful, and made to last for years to come. We work exclusively with Marvin and Pella to offer our customers the best they can get. Whether you’re needing a window installation or windows replaced, Manor Roofing will get the job done right and on time. Contact us today to start a window replacement project.
Benefits of Having a Screened In Porch
Outdoor living spaces feel more complete with an area or areas that serves as both a place to relax and a gathering spot for your guests during spring, summer, and fall. There are many benefits of building a screened in porch. Having an open air deck in the spring and early summer is nice, but a screened in porch can be enjoyed day or night, rain or shine, and for many months throughout the year.
Enjoy the Great Outdoors Without the Bugs
A screened in porch is a terrific way to get some fresh air without sacrificing any comforts of home. If you want to do this on warm summer nights, you know that mosquito protection is a must. A screened porch protects you from the itching bites, stings, and diseases that mosquitoes, bees, moths, flies, and other bothersome insects can bring. A screened porch is a great investment for those who want the great outdoors without the outdoor elements. Bugs will no longer be a problem for you and your family with a screened in porch.
Extend Your Family Room
Shake up family time by having an outdoor game night or dinner! A screened porch is a great place to spend time with family and enjoy each others company. You can even carry a portable heater with you if the weather becomes a little cool! Or bring out some pillows and blankets to make it extra cozy. Add some plants and ambient lighting for a touch of style. Screened-in porches provide a great spot for a spontaneous family gathering.
Create a Space That Fits Your Needs
A screened in porch can be customized to fit your specific needs. Screen materials come in a variety of forms, so you can get exactly what you need. Some are tightly woven and cut down on UV ray exposure on sunny days. Others screens are designed to be pet and child safe for families with active children who also want to enjoy the porch. There are plenty of options to create a space that is perfect for you.
Increase The Value of Your Home
Adding a screened-in porch to a property increases its value, especially in terms of its overall curb appeal. Potential buyers and renters may picture themselves and their loved ones relaxing in the screened-in porch, and because they aren’t very common, it could be the feature that swayed them to make the purchase.
Add A Little Privacy
Screened in porches are great for those who want some extra privacy in their backyard. Blinds and privacy screens create a calming oasis to relax with a cold drink or read a book. These window treatments can also work to block out the hard afternoon sun. Covered patio spaces with screens can be enjoyed any time of day. Even without these extras, the mesh screens themselves add a barrier between you and the outside world to create the feeling of seclusion.
Ready To Create Your Outdoor Oasis?
Manor’s experienced craftsmen can add a screened in porch that complements your home at a price that’s right. We’ll work with you to design the perfect outdoor extension to your home so you can entertain family and friends in the beauty of your backyard and outdoors. Contact one of our expert builders today to get an estimate or to get started on the screened in porch of your dreams!