Archive for the ‘Roofing’ Category

In a matter of weeks, leaves and other debris will start to gather in your rain gutters. Most home-improvement experts recommend that you clean out your gutters every spring and fall. Clogged gutters can cause so many woes that it’s worth your effort to clear them or install guards to block falling debris. You can clean them yourself with a ladder and hand-made scoop. But if you’re unwilling to do it, at least call in a service to handle the job.

Here’s why. If you have siding, continuous leaks from the roof can warp them or create mold issues that affect your entire family. Pooling water in your gutter can rust metal gutters or rot wooden ones.  In the worst-case scenario, clogged gutters and faulty drainpipes can funnel runoff down your exterior walls and into your foundation. Freezing water in winter can actually crack the foundation and then you have real expenses.

How to Clean Out Your Gutters
First, round up your tools, including a sturdy extension ladder, work gloves, protective goggles, a hand scoop, and plenty of bags to round up waste.  Some people use pressure washers or a leaf blower, but in some cases, nothing suffices better than a scoop and elbow grease.  Pay attention to how you set up and move your ladder; it can be the most important safety measure in cleaning gutters.

You can buy a gutter scoop, but many homeowners simple make one by slicing the bottom from a empty bleach container—or you can use a trowel.  If you plan on dumping the debris into a bucket, be sure to attach it to the ladder, rather than hang it from the gutter, causing warp or bends.  Clean from the side of the gutter that attaches to the downspout, moving away from the opening. This can prevent clogging of the gutter and downspout.

Pressure Cleaning Gutters
If you decide on using a pressure washer, you’ll spare injury or potentially fatal falls by using a harness or lanyard. It can be more work than necessary to get the job done.

No matter what, be sure to check the positioning of your ladder to avoid power lines. Consider buying a ladder stay that allows you to position the ladder against the wall, rather than putting pressure against the gutter.  Use a hose to clear your downspouts but never force debris through them. You can end up creating a logjam in the middle or bend in a spout, and then you may have to replace it.

After the cleaning, inspect the downspouts and gutters for cracks. A special gutter sealant can easily patch the leaks, but avoid creating ridges that can block the flow.

It’s time to revisit the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 and its energy improvements section.  In sum, Section 1121 of the act was created to offer a $1,500 tax credit for materials applied towards an energy retrofit of windows, skylights, doors, insulation and roofing.

Homeowners can earn the credit up to a 30 percent ceiling on materials. However, if you’re working with heating and air conditioning, you could receive a credit up to 30 percent of the cost and installation for a solar- powered water heater or biomass stove.  Another provision of the legislation creates a no-repay $8,000 tax credit to a first-time homeowner.

Tax Rules and a Quick Warning
The provisions of the stimulus  tripled the size of credits for upgrading your home. But you must meet Federal requirements to successfully file for the credit or return. All new HVAC systems or new windows, skylights, doors, etc., have to be installed between  January 1, 2009, and December 31, 2010.

If you’re planning on taking the credit, you must buy products that meet Federal energy efficiency requirements. Even a product identified on its label as an Energy Star certified item may not meet the regulations. New compliance levels have been set based on National Fenestration Council (NFRC) ratings for  U-Factor and Solar Heat-Gain-Coefficient values.

There are varieties of insulation products that meet lifespan and warranty requirements that you can add to your materials checklist. And roofing materials that meet Energy Star requirements may also qualify.

Insist on Paper
For each purchase you want to apply to your tax return, you’ll need the receipt, the product tag verifying its energy-efficiency ratings (Manufacturer’s Certification Statement), and a separate form provided by the retailer indicating the sale of an qualifying item.

Don’t confuse your contractor with your tax attorney. Look carefully at advertising from contractors who claim that they’ll match your $1,500 tax credit.  That’s assuming that you can qualify for one.  Remember, only certain energy-efficient renovations qualify for tax credits and include labor costs. Review the list at the Energy Star website.

Also, don’t take a contractor’s word that the materials meet the provisions unless you see the actual manufacturer’s certification tag. Any contract or work-order you arrange with your installer should itemize materials costs in a separate breakout from labor. You’ll need to save all the documentation you can for your records.

It’s worth a note that the law also set aside $5 billion in funds for weatherization assistance to qualified low-income households.

It’s starting to get colder, and there might be less sunshine, but it’s still a great time for remodeling projects. Here are my top picks for Fall Home Improvement and Remodeling Projects.

1. Window Replacement
Do you know how old your windows are? Old windows can be a big energy waster in your home. In the fall and winter, when keeping warm air in is important, having old windows that don’t do their job can cause your home to be less than efficient, and definitely not as warm. So why not update your windows before the cold really comes in this winter and keep your house cozy all year long.

2. Kitchen Remodel
With all the cooking and baking that goes on during the holidays, why not spend some time sprucing your kitchen space up. No matter your budget, there are options for making your kitchen feel warmer and more inviting. Try installing new countertops, refacing your cabinets, or adding a kitchen island to create more workspace.

3. Roof Replacement
Fall maintenance is an important part of the season. Having your roof inspected should be one of your top maintenance priorities. The last thing you want going into the colder months is a roof that’s not in perfect shape. If your roof is older, you may find that it lets cold air, or worse, the other elements, leak into your home. If this is the case, it might be time to start a roof replacement before you encounter bigger roofing problems in the winter.

4. Window Seat Addition
One of my favorite ways of enjoying the sun in winter, is to enjoy it from the indoors. Adding a window seat in front of a window that gets lots of sunshine is a great way to still get some sun while staying warm. Any carpenter should be able to create an area for you however you imagine it. Perhaps a bench with built in storage would fit perfectly in your living room.

5. Fireplace Remodel
If you have a fireplace, you’ll likely start using it this winter. Using your fireplace creates warmth, and encourages the family to gather around it. To get your fireplace spruced up for winter, think about giving it a little love this fall. Add a new coat of paint, hire a carpenter to create a custom mantle, or maybe install some interesting tile work around your fireplace. Whatever you choose, adding new life to your fireplace will make it a space to enjoy all winter.

Does anyone else have any winter projects lined up?

Thinking of a roof replacement? Well you’ve got lots of choices. I’m one who always likes to stand out from the crowd, and it’s no different when I consider roof shingles. Sure, you could go with classic wood shingles, or any number of composite choices, but why not really think outside the box and consider copper roofing.

Copper Roof Shingles Offer Unique Home Design

For those of you with a desire for something completely different, and if you’ve got a flexible pocketbook, you many want to consider copper roofing shingles. Copper roofs are notoriously pricey, but it’s priceless if you want to be the most unique home on the block!

(Photo Credit: Everlasting Roofing)

Even if you can’t fathom your whole roof with these shiny roof shingles, perhaps you could design one element of your roof to be copper. It adds a unique focal point to the exterior of your home.