6 Signs You Need New Gutters

March 2, 2020/in Gutters /by allexteriors

Rain gutters play an important role in protecting your home’s exterior from water damage. If you have a basement, gutters are especially beneficial, as they can prevent ground erosion that can lead to flooding. By the same principle, gutters can keep water away from your foundation, preserving it and saving you from expensive repairs.

However, over time gutters may get cluttered or become damaged. To keep your home safe, it’s essential that you have them repaired or replaced as soon as you notice signs of degradation.

All Exteriors LLC helps homeowners in New Richmond by offering seamless gutter installation and other services. With 20 years of experience, we’re the ideal choice for your remodeling or repair job. How can you tell if it’s time to contact us? Here are six signs your gutters need to go.

1. Pooling Water

If you’re noticing pools of water along the side of your house, there’s probably something wrong with your gutters. Pooling indicates a leak; if it’s been around for a while, you may also notice mold or mildew.

These two issues are especially troublesome, as they can cause health problems for residents and structural damage to your home. A few common signs of mold and mildew are bubbling on interior walls or ceiling, a musty odor and discoloration.

2. Rot

If you have wooden siding, leaking gutters may cause rot. As an organic material, wood is susceptible to moisture and can quickly degrade with exposure. Depending on where the leak is, you may also notice rot along with wooden door jams or windowsills.

Rot is a serious issue, as it eats away at your house’s first line of defense against exterior threats. Softened siding can let moisture, dirt, and even wild animals into your walls where they’ll wreak havoc.

3. Sagging

When gutters clog, they can become structurally unsound from the weight and built-up pressure. This often results in sagging or pulling away from the roof. This is a significant sign that you need to upgrade, potentially to K-guard gutters that prevent leaves, sticks and other debris from entering the system. If your current system is often clogging, that means it’s too narrow to manage the flow of water and

debris effectively. If you try to repair instead of replacing, you may find yourself facing the same problem again.

4. Peeling Paint

If you suspect a leak but don’t see puddles along the side of your house, there may be more subtle signs of the damage: peeling. The repeated presence of water makes paint peel and bubble over time. Since these issues start small, you may not notice them at first. Make sure to look under overhangs and where the system meets the house.

5. Separating Seams

Many older systems have seams where gutter segments connect. These weak spots are susceptible to separating with the repeated pressure of water and debris. While it’s possible to repair this issue, there’s no way to eliminate it without upgrading to seamless gutters.

6. Cracks

Visible cracks are a bad sign since they indicate leaks. If you notice a crack anywhere along the system, make sure you thoroughly examine the rest, as there may be smaller cracks you don’t see at first glance.

While repairable, cracks are a sign that your gutters are getting old. Sun, rain and fluctuating temperatures eventually take their toll, and it’s up to you as the homeowner to recognize when your system is done for.

Is it time to install new gutters? Then reach out to All Exteriors LLC. Our experts can get you set up with an effective, durable system in no time. To learn more about our services or to get a quote, give us a call at (715) 781-1696 or contact us online.

Photo Credit: Bilanol/Getty Images

Choosing the Right Fence for Your Home

February 12, 2020/in Backyard /by allexteriors

Are you thinking of constructing a fence on your property? A fence can be a significant investment, so it’s essential that you choose the right type for your needs.

At All Exteriors LLC, we’ve helped homeowners choose and install their ideal fences for over 20 years, and one thing we’ve learned is that purpose is key. A fence’s purpose plays a considerable role in the material and style you have to choose from.

To ensure you cover all your bases, make a list of all the things you need your new wall to do. Not sure where to start? Here are five factors to consider when it comes to fencing installation.

1. Security

Many people install walls to keep out animals or potential criminals. If this is your primary reason, you’ll need a strong wall material. Hardwood and durable metals are great options, but you want to stay away from glass. Make sure your gate is also tamper-proof; as the entrance, it’s a weak point that can defeat the purpose of an imposing wall if the lock, gate or frame can be easily broken.

A security fence should be tall to discourage climbing. You’ll also want to avoid horizontal supports, space between slats, or anything else that can be used as handholds for ease of climbing.

2. Pets

If you have pets that enjoy the outdoors, fences are a great way to keep them safe and on your property. However, there are a few things you should consider:

Do your pets dig?
Do they jump?
How big are they?

Dogs that are prone to tunneling can be thwarted by hardscaping or installing several inches of fence underground. You can combat jumping by building a wall taller than your pets’ maximum jump height. Finally, larger dogs generally require taller fencing, as they have greater physical capabilities.

On the other hand, maybe your escape isn’t the problem — it’s the barking. Many dogs have the natural instinct to protect their territory, which means they bark at anything and anyone who comes close, even if there’s no actual danger. A solid fence may solve this problem, as your dogs won’t be able to see the street and sidewalk beyond.

3. Gardens

Individuals who live in more rural areas know that critters love to ransack gardens — and they’re incredibly resourceful when it comes to getting around obstacles. Deer are some of the worst offenders, as they can clear nearly eight feet with ease.

The solution is to either go wide or tall. If you pair an average-height fence with hedges or another shrubbery, a deer won’t be able to clear the entire distance. You can also opt for added height, solid material or netting to keep out hungry trespassers.

4. Privacy

If you live in a densely populated area, a privacy fence can be a true asset. Compared to walls meant for security, you have a few more options when it comes to style and material:

Spaced wood
Vinyl
Closely spaced lattice

With a privacy fence in place, you can feel comfortable using your yard without worrying about nosy neighbors.

5. Pools

Many municipalities compel homeowners to fence in pools for safety reasons. Before you start the installation, you should find out the legal requirements:

What materials can you use?
How closely must the slats be placed?
Are there any gate and lock requirements?
How tall must the fence be?

Whether you need fencing repair or are looking to add a wall to your property, All Exteriors LLC is here to help. Our experts can help you sift through the many options to find the perfect material and style. For more information or to schedule a consultation, give us a call at (715) 781-1696 or contact us online.

Image Credit: Shutterstock/Radovan1

7 Warning Signs You Need a New Roof

January 22, 2020/in Roofing /by allexteriors

How often do you think about your roof? If you’re like most homeowners, you may not pay much attention until something goes wrong. However, your roof’s condition affects the rest of your house; if outside elements are getting into your home, you could be in for expensive repairs. The good news is that if you catch issues early, you can save yourself a headache. Here are seven signs you need new roof installation services.

1. Your Energy Bills Are Sky-High

When you need roof repair, your house isn’t as insulated as it should be. That means outside air is getting in and influencing your home’s temperature. As a result, your HVAC system has to work extra hard to keep you comfortable. If you see higher energy costs and your AC is working fine, your roof may be to blame.

2. Your Shingles Are a Mess

Shingles are your roof’s first line of defense against the weather; over time, they take a beating. When you inspect your shingles, look for the following:

Cracking
Curling
Missing shingles

If a few shingles are missing here and there, you may be able to get away with reshingling. However, cracking and curling are signs of extreme wear. To avoid future leaks, you’ll need to hire a roofing service for a new installation.

3. You Find Decay

If you live in a wet climate, you need to keep an eye out for signs of decay:

Rot
Mold
Algae
Moss

Rot undermines a roof’s structure, making it a safety hazard. Mold can be a health concern, as it releases spores that may lead to respiratory issues if inhaled. Moss and algae thrive with dampness and actually store moisture, which can lead to rot and mold. If you catch these signs of decay early, you may be able to replace just the impacted area.

4. You Have a Leak

A leak is one of the most obvious signs your roof needs to be replaced. If you notice leaking, get an inspection right away to determine the extent of the damage. Some leaks are the product of slow erosion over time, with moisture causing all kinds of destruction along the way. On the other hand, some leaks are limited in scope and caused by a single event, like violent wind or hail, which can be easily patched.

5. You Notice Stains

If you see discoloration on your wall or ceiling, there’s moisture where it shouldn’t be. You’ll need to investigate the source immediately, as stains usually mean water has been getting into your house over a long period of time. Your roof’s structure may even be compromised, which puts your safety at risk. Fixing a collapsed roof is a lot more stress than a simple replacement.

6. Your Paint Is Peeling

Peeling or blistering paint is a sure sign of dampness and must be investigated as quickly as possible. Like stains, this usually indicates the long-term presence of moisture. While blistering paint may be more noticeable indoors, make sure you also inspect your house’s exterior, as this warning sign can manifest there as well.

7. You Realize It’s Been 25 Years

Unfortunately, roofs don’t last forever. After 25 years, your roof has endured a lot and needs a complete overhaul. While you can extend its life with repairs and regular maintenance, there comes a point when it’s cheaper to get a new installation than it is to pay for repairs constantly. Not to mention that you’ll probably get tired of the disruption caused by intermittent construction.

Contact Us Today!

Is your roof on its last legs? All Exteriors LLC provides repair and installation services for communities in New Richmond. To get an estimate or to learn more about our services, give us a call at (715) 781-1696 or contact us online.

Image Credit: Shutterstock By brizmaker

5 Backyard Landscaping Ideas in New Richmond

December 9, 2019/in Backyard /by allexteriors

Are you taking advantage of your backyard? Outdoor areas present a unique opportunity to create versatile spaces; the same quiet corner where you indulge in a good book can accommodate guests and lively conversation.

Most importantly, your backyard can reflect your personality and fulfill your specific needs. The right landscaping can transform your property from boring to truly luxurious. Here at All Exteriors LLC in New Richmond, we believe everyone should enjoy a yard designed for all occasions. Not sure which elements suit your style? Take a look at these five landscape design ideas to spark your creativity.

1. Artful Vine-Covered Pergola

If your dream landscaping includes winding, draping vines, you should consider a vine-covered pergola. This innovative design takes advantage of vertical space that often goes unused. The result is lush shade reminiscent of hanging gardens.

When creating this fixture, it’s essential that you give careful thought to the type of pergola you want, as the vine arrangement depends on the pergola structure. If you don’t mind an open-roof option, you can have vines hanging directly over a seating space, creating a dappled effect.

2. Outdoor Deck Dining Service

When the weather’s nice, why limit your cooking to the kitchen? With a custom deck, you can have everything you need to create a delicious dinner right in your backyard.

A sturdy wood or concrete deck should support a grill, allowing you to serve piping-hot burgers and hot dogs to family or guests. You can even have a small cooler or mini-fridge nearby to keep drinks icy cold.

Decks are also ideal for dining, as you can easily place furniture without fear of uneven terrain. With accessible outdoor cooking, you may be tempted to spend every weekend in your backyard.

3. Protected Patio

One of the best investments you can make in your patio is to get a cover. Not only does a cover provide shade to loungers, but it also protects your furniture from the elements. It can be a pain to dry out cushions after every storm; a cover can prevent them from getting soaked in the first place. You can also save fabrics from fading due to sun exposure.

There are many different designs to choose from, including:

Patio covers can also add to your house’s décor.
Thomas
Sunlight pavilions
Santa Fe

4. Private Garden Pergola

Many backyard landscaping ideas are based on the assumption that you plan to host parties or regularly have guests. But what if you just want a quiet space for relaxation?

You can use pergolas to divide yard space and create a private patio area. Vines and shrubbery can act as dividers without making space feel cut-off from the rest of the yard. To visually reinforce the separation, you can have a patio installed as well.

5. High Deck for Elite Entertainment

There’s more than one way to make use of vertical space. If you have a smaller backyard, you can make the most of it with a raised, tiered deck.

The tiers allow you to clearly define different areas without erecting walls or interfering with the design flow. For example, you can have a dining area on the lower tier and lounge furniture on the higher.

Raised decks are especially great for yards with a view. If you have mountains, forests or other gorgeous landscapes within sight, you can get an even better vantage point with a little height.

Contact All Exteriors LLC Today! Your backyard has so much to offer and the experts at All Exteriors LLC can help you take full advantage of it. Whether you’re interested in adding a pergola or building a sunroom, we’re happy to assist. For more information on our services, give us a call at 715-781-1696 or contact us online.

5 Deck Renovations That Really Pay Off

October 24, 2019/in Deck /by allexteriors

Having a deck in your yard is a great way to make the most of time spent outdoors. During a party or even a casual get together, decks offer a natural gathering point.

A deck is a great spot for eating, admiring the view and more. With deck renovations in New Richmond, you can get even more enjoyment out of your deck.

Renovations help adapt a deck to the specific uses you have for it, making it an even more valuable asset to your home. These are some of the best and most useful renovations to give your deck a new life.

Add a New Railing

Railings for your deck add that final touch that makes the deck look properly finished. They’re also vital for safety reasons, to prevent people from stepping off and falling down.

Adding a new railing gives you control over the look and feel of this important component of your deck. A custom railing can enhance the beauty and style of your existing deck. Whether you opt for an entirely wood railing or a welded railing, a custom addition is sure to satisfy your expectations.

Below Deck Space

If you want to make the most of the space in your home, try using the space below your deck. If your home has two stories, this can be an entire patio or another outdoor area.

If you have less space, though, you can still make use of the area under your deck. For those who are always searching out new storage solutions, this may be the perfect spot to use for stowing away seldom-used items, such as seasonal items or camping gear.

A remodel can help you make use of this previously wasted space and clear up a cluttered garage.

Get It Waterproofed

Waterproofing is an excellent way to extend your deck’s life and a practical renovation. Wood decks are constantly exposed to the elements, from UV rays to days of rain and snow.

Having a waterproof sealant applied will help keep the boards of your deck clean and strong, avoiding rot and staining from moisture. Wood decks are gorgeous, but they are vulnerable to damage from moisture.

The boards can warp or discolor over time if they aren’t protected. Updating the sealant will keep your deck protected, so you can enjoy it for years to come.

Update With Deck Resurfacing

If your deck is aging, it may be time to have it resurfaced. Resurfacing can include replacement and repair of any aspect of your deck, from the railing to the individual boards.

Wood boards with damage or staining can be replaced, either with new wood or with low-maintenance composite wood. You can also update stairs, keeping them safe for the seniors in your family as well as the little ones.

Loose stairs, missing steps, and other damage are all excellent reasons to schedule a deck resurfacing.

Put In a Drainage System Below Deck

This update is a great option for keeping your deck mold-free and avoiding unsightly water stains.

A series of metal panels under the deck collects rainwater that falls between boards, keeping it from soaking through the bottom panels and into the ceiling below a raised deck.

All the collected rainwater is channeled into a spout, where it can be released just like it would be from a rain gutter.

This under deck ceiling is guaranteed not to leak, giving you a comfortable and clean area to use below the deck.

Contact All Exteriors Today!

If you want to have a deck remodel in New Richmond done, All Exteriors has skilled services that will help you create the deck of your dreams.

Whatever renovation or repair you need, we have the best crew and materials to get it done. Contact us today, or call us at 715-781-1696 for more information.

Image Credit: Shutterstock/alabn

5 Ways to Use Your Under Deck Patio

August 26, 2019/in Backyard, Outdoor Living /by allexteriors

If you have a raised deck, chances are there’s an empty space under it waiting to be used. Using this space can maximize your backyard space, letting you get the most out of the land you have. Since the area is sheltered by the deck, there are plenty of potential uses. Whether you want to create storage space or use the area for social gatherings, under deck patios give you the opportunity to be creative in how you use your outdoor space.

1. Under Deck Storage

This is a great solution for homes that lack enough storage space. If you are a family of camping or outdoor enthusiasts, you likely have a lot of equipment cluttering up your home or garage. Moving those items to the under deck area can free up a lot of space in your home. To make it adequate storage space, you’ll need to make it more secure and protected against the elements. Installing a shed or adding walls to keep out rain and damaging sunlight will help keep your items safe.

2. Create a Screened-In Porch

Climates with mild weather can benefit from a screened porch, which gives you a place to relax with the breeze and the freshness of the outdoors while keeping pests out. With a screened porch, you can choose a mesh fineness and metal type for the screens. A finer mesh will keep out smaller bugs, so you can select one depending on the size of bugs you expect to find in your backyard. The best thing about a screened porch is letting the sunlight and fragrant air come in while remaining sheltered from the elements.

3. Add a Playground

The under deck area is ideal for a child’s play area. Even if there’s not enough space for adults to stand or sit comfortably, a children’s play area may fit perfectly into the space. Your children and their visitors will love crawling through tunnels or playing house within the area. For extra safety and more visibility, add lighting so you can keep an eye on them. It’ll also be helpful to see clearly into the under deck area at night, for home safety and security reasons.

4. Under Deck Oasis System

An under deck drainage system will collect rainwater in the space below your deck, and above the ceiling of the under deck area. It then directs the rainwater into a gutter, preventing it from soaking into the ceiling below. The system is designed with sloped metal panels that lead into the rain gutter. The Under Deck Oasis helps you make better use of the area below your deck, preserving it so you can use it to entertain without having unsightly water stains or drips from above.

5. Set Up a Grill and Seating

Grilling doesn’t just have to be for summer and parties. Channel your passion for cooking into an outdoor cooking space perfect for warm weather. The most common features found in outdoor kitchen areas are:

Counter space
Grill
Sink

These three appliances will give you the space you need to create delicious meals for your family, from kebabs to burgers. Add seating to take the meal outdoors completely.

These under deck patio ideas are only some of your options for designing a feature that will benefit your family and make the most of your backyard space. Under deck patio areas let you get creative, so design something that reflects your family’s lifestyle. All Exteriors LLC can help you make those ideas a reality, contact us today to get started.

Image Credit: Shutterstock/Kristi Blokhin

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