Steel Roofing and Siding: Explaining the Basics

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Being able to provide for, establish, and decorate a comfortable and pleasant home will mean nothing if it fails to do its primary purpose — protect you from weather conditions. At the end of the day, a home is supposed to do many things for the people that inhabit it. It allows them to have privacy, spend time with loved ones, and get rest and relaxation. It also protects them from the outside world.

That’s why you need to be sure that your house — whether you’re building a new one or renovating an existing property — is adequately equipped to withstand all kinds of unpleasant weather conditions. It must be able to withstand harsh rain, bitter cold, sweltering heat, and strong winds.

The answer to your plight? Quality steel roofing and siding. Keep reading to learn more about what roofing and siding are, and how you can opt for the best roofing and siding options for your home.

Your House’s First and Main Line of Defense

The roof and sides of your house are its main lines of defense. Backed up by properly constructed doors and windows, your home should be able to block anything from seeping in through the cracks.

A properly constructed roof can effectively repel water, prevent leaks, and maintain the structural integrity of your home. Investing in a well-constructed roof made of high-quality materials enhances its longevity. Asphalt shingles, metal, tile, or slate roofing are chosen for their durability and resistance to harsh weather conditions.

Also, a roof designed and installed correctly can withstand the test of time, requiring fewer repairs. Professional ceiling contractors in Wisconsin have the expertise to select appropriate roofing materials. They consider climate and local building codes and employ proper installation techniques. They can also perform regular roof inspections and maintenance to help you identify and address potential vulnerabilities, ensuring your roof remains sturdy and weather-resistant.

The roof above your head and the exterior walls allows your house to stand firm and provide shelter. This is not only applicable when wanting to protect your home from disastrous weather conditions that may outright destroy your property, but if your roofing or siding is installed poorly, that can lead to the  deterioration of your home in the future.

Consider roof leaks as an example. If the roofing was not installed properly, you would eventually need to find solutions for the small puddles of water forming in your living room whenever it rains. Conversely, if the siding is poorly done, drafts will be a constant companion throughout the cold season.

Save yourself the trouble of looking for repairs — opt for the highest quality steel roofing and siding services from the beginning.

Choose Your Materials Wisely

Although steel roofing and siding are already a good option, you should also consider the best materials for the surface you want to cover. Whatever material you choose, they should be strong enough to cover large surface areas and provide effective protection.

Stone

Stone siding is a classic and aesthetic, albeit slightly outdated option. When choosing stone it is important that the inner layers of your roof and walls are properly insulated.

metal roofing

Metal

Metal, on the other hand, is popular and quite durable. Moreover, there are different types of metal roofs and outside walls, so you’ll have a range in price point and quality level, depending on which one you opt for.

Insulated

Insulated roofs and walls are increasingly common in recent years, and this is an effect that can be achieved with several materials. Combine an insulation system with good metal surfaces, and you’ll be protected from harsh external factors.

Your Best Option for Roofing and Siding

All Exteriors can ease the mind of all Wisconsin and Minnesota residents when it comes to quality steel roofing and siding services. You can choose from a variety of materials and installation methods, so find the best one for you, and rest assured your home will be safe in our hands.

Contact All Exteriors now to find the most comprehensive yet affordable roofing and siding services.

7 Warning Signs You Need a New Roof

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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

Metal Roofing vs Shingles – Which is Right for You?

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The year 2017 was a rough year for the Upper Midwest, according to the NOAA annual weather report. With extreme weather and freezing temperatures in Wisconsin and Minnesota, you may be realizing it’s time to replace your home’s roof. Which is better, a metal roof or shingles? The answer may depend on your situation.

Metal Roof vs. Shingles: Key Differences

Durability and weather resistance

When it comes to durability, metal roofing is the superior choice. Metal has the ability to retain its structural integrity despite strong winds, rain, snow, and hail.

Metal is also fireproof and lasts longer than any other construction material. In fact, metal roofs are expected to last up to 60 years—almost three times as long as regular asphalt shingles.

Maintenance

Asphalt shingles require thorough maintenance and inspection at least once a year. Valleys and pipe boots must be checked for potential leaks and damage.

Meanwhile, a metal roof requires little to no upkeep. But that doesn’t mean it shouldn’t be checked for leaks, chalking, and corrosion. Metal roofing should be professionally inspected every three to five years to prevent costly complications.

Customization

Our metal roofing systems in Wisconsin are available in a wide range of styles and colors to suit your aesthetic and budget preferences. Choose from panel, ribbed, tile, or shingle metal roofing to match your property’s overall look. Metal roofs can also be customized to imitate the appearance of wood and asphalt shingles.

Energy efficiency

When it comes to energy efficiency, which is better, asphalt shingles or metal roofing?

Metal roofs have insulative qualities that enable them to reflect heat away from your home, lower indoor air temperature, and minimize wear on your HVAC system during warmer months. During winter, they can retain heat and help keep you warm.

Most metal roofing systems can also be mounted with solar panels and other energy-saving technologies.

Asphalt Shingles: Pros and Cons

Asphalt shingles, laid in an overlapping pattern that encourages moisture to run off the roof without entering the home, are the most common option. However, these shingles aren’t always the best choice. Here are some shingle roof pros and cons.

Pros

  • Affordable: The cost of shingles makes this type of roof extremely attractive, as it only costs a few thousand dollars to install shingles.
  • Easy to install: Installing asphalt shingles is easier and requires less expertise than metal roofs.
  • Traditional appearance: Asphalt shingles offer a more home-like, less commercial appearance.

Cons

  • Shorter lifespan: The warranties on asphalt shingles are typically around 20 years, although they often don’t last that long because of their vulnerability to extreme weather.
  • Poor economy in summer: In summer asphalt shingles absorb heat, and your air conditioning will have to work considerably harder to cool your home.
  • Heavy: Traditional asphalt shingles are heavy once installed, especially higher-end shingles.

Metal Roofs: Pros and Cons

Metal roofs used to be used primarily on rural buildings such as barns, but not any longer. Attractive metal shingles and metal roofs have become an option for both older homes and newer, custom homes. Here are some of the metal roof pros and cons.

Pros

  • Durable and long-lasting: Metal roofs are expected to last as much as 60 years, two or three times as long as traditional asphalt shingles.
  • Weather resistant: Metal roofs are better equipped to withstand the extreme weather of the Upper Midwest. Even hail won’t do much to a durable steel roof.
  • Economical: Smooth metal roofs reflect the sunlight in summer, helping your home stay cooler, and helping the snow melt in the winter.

Cons

  • Expensive: The cost of a metal roof is a big deterrent for many homeowners. A house that would cost a few thousand to put an asphalt shingle roof on could easily cost over $10,000 for a metal roof.
  • Difficult to repair: While metal roofs are largely maintenance-free, repairs are more difficult to do if just one section is damaged.
  • Industrial-looking: While some homeowners appreciate the unique look of a metal roof, many others still prefer the traditional look of asphalt.

Want help comparing metal roofing vs. shingles? Contact All Exteriors today, and we will help you decide which roofing option best suits your home! Whether you are in need of a new roof, a re-roof, or roofing repairs, we have the knowledge and the expertise to get the job done right the first time.

Feature image: Spok83/Shutterstock

Protecting Your Gutters for the Winter in New Richmond

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Winter is here, and if you live in New Richmond, Wisconsin, or the surrounding area, that means plenty of snow and cold weather. Have you prepared your gutters for winter? A little ice, snow, and wind can wreak havoc on your gutters as they function as the first line of defense for your home. Without proper winterization, your gutters can clog, sag, and crack—creating problems inside your home when the ice begins to melt in the spring. Here are some tips to help you winterize your home and protect your gutters from ice damage.

Winterization Tips for Your Gutters

 

1. Clean Your Gutters

When twigs and leaves clog gutters during winter, rainwater and melting snow can overflow, entering your attic and freezing on the ground. The water creates a slipping hazard and water damage to your home. Before winter begins, remove all of the debris from your gutters. To clean your gutters first remove large objects with a spade or wear gloves and remove them by hand.

Next, check the slope of your gutter system. Make sure it is correctly positioned to move water toward your downspouts. Properly positioned gutters direct water toward your downspouts to prevent overflow. Additionally, ensure that your downspouts are directed away from your foundation to safeguard against basement flooding. A well-maintained roof with properly installed shingles can significantly aid in the flow of water away from your gutter system, reducing the risk of damage.

2. Trim Overgrown Trees

Leaves can continue to fall into your gutters even after the winter begins. To minimize this risk, consider trimming back any tree branches that are near your roof. Snow and ice can cause weakened limbs to snap, posing a risk to your home’s roof and gutters alike. By taking the time to remove overhanging limbs, you reduce the likelihood of unexpected damage to both your roof and gutters.

3. Prevent Ice Dams

In winter, water can freeze in your gutters, creating ice dams. These dams can trap ice and snow, leading to severe water damage to your home when they thaw in the spring. To combat this, consider having a professional install heat tape or electric heating cables in your gutters. These systems generate enough heat to keep gutters free of ice buildup, but improper installation can cause significant damage. For this reason, it’s best to leave this work in the hands of experienced professionals who know how to handle roof and gutter installations safely.

4. Consider De-Icing Solutions

If you notice specific areas where ice and snow tend to accumulate, creating a de-icing barrier can be very effective. A simple solution is to fill an old pair of pantyhose with calcium chloride and lay it across the roof. The chemical will melt snow and ice as it accumulates, allowing water to flow away and preventing sagging gutters and broken hinges.

5. Roof and Shingle Maintenance

Along with caring for your gutters, it’s vital to pay attention to your roof and shingles during the winter months. Snow accumulation can put extra weight on an already stressed roof, especially if shingles are cracked or compromised. Regular inspections before winter are essential. Look for missing or damaged shingles, and get them replaced promptly to ensure your roof functions correctly and keeps the elements at bay.

6. Professional Inspection and Maintenance

If you’re not comfortable doing the maintenance yourself, consider hiring a professional to inspect your gutters and roof before winter sets in. They can identify any potential issues and make necessary repairs or replacements to keep your gutters functioning correctly throughout the season.

7. Keep an Eye Out for Signs of Damage

Even with proper winterization, harsh weather can still cause damage to your gutters. After a storm or particularly cold spell, take the time to inspect your gutters and roof for any signs of damage. Look for sagging gutters, cracked or missing shingles, and signs of water damage inside your home. Catching these issues early on can prevent more extensive and costly repairs in the future.

8. Prepare for Spring

As the winter season comes to an end, it’s essential to properly prepare your gutters for spring. Clean out any debris that may have accumulated over the winter and check for any damage or blockages from ice and snow. This will ensure that your gutters are ready for the spring rain showers.

9. Consider Gutter Guards

If you find yourself constantly cleaning out your gutters and dealing with ice dams, consider investing in gutter guards. These are installed over your gutters to prevent leaves and debris from clogging them up. They can also help prevent ice buildup by allowing water to flow freely through small holes while keeping out larger debris.

Have You Heard of K-Guard Gutter Guards?

K-Guard gutter guards offer a robust solution to keep your gutters free from clogs while preventing ice dams during the harsh winter months. Designed with a patented system, K-Guard effectively channels water while blocking leaves and debris, ensuring that your gutters remain clear. This means less time spent on maintenance and fewer worries about flooding or structural damage caused by blocked gutters. With a durable, all-aluminum construction, K-Guard is built to withstand the elements, making it a long-lasting investment for homeowners in New Richmond. Additionally, its unique design allows for greater water flow, reducing the chances of ice formation in the first place.

By installing K-Guard, you’re not only taking proactive measures to protect your home this winter, but you’re also enhancing your property’s value. If you’re tired of constant gutter cleaning and potential winter damage, consider reaching out to professionals to learn more about this effective gutter solution.

Call the Professionals

Proper gutter cleaning and winterization can protect your home from damage all winter long. The best course of action is to call a professional to winterize your home. If you live in New Richmond, Wisconsin and the surrounding communities give All Exteriors LLC a call. Let us help you prepare your home for winter, quickly and affordably!

Winter can be unforgiving, but with the right precautions and regular maintenance, you can protect your gutters, roof, and shingles from potential damage. By following these guidelines, you ensure a safe and warm winter season in your home. Remember that addressing these concerns now can save you time and money in the future, avoiding issues when the weather thaws in the spring.

How to Remove Ice Dams on Your Roof

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If you live in a climate that experiences long, cold winters like Wisconsin and Minnesota, ice dams can be a problem. While we all love the beauty of icicles hanging down from the eaves of our home creating that picture-perfect winter landscape, the fact is ice can wreak havoc if not addressed.

Ice dams are thick mounds of ice that build up along your home’s eaves. They can loosen shingles, tear off gutters, and cause water to back up and enter your home. This can result in serious damage that can be expensive to repair.

How Ice Dams Form

Ice dams form when heat from the roof melts the base of the snow on the roof. The water travels between the snow and your roof shingles until it reaches your gutters, which are cold because they extend beyond the exterior walls of your home. There, the water re-freezes, gradually growing into a mound of ice.

The flatter your roof, the easier it is for an ice dam to form and grow. If the snow and ice build up in your gutters, it can cause an ice dam to form.

How To Remove Ice Dams From Your Roof

Removing an ice dam is best accomplished by breaking it free in small pieces. It is best to have them steamed off of the home to prevent damage to your roof. This is slow and dangerous work, and is best done by an experienced professional like the experts at All Exteriors Home Improvement & Outdoor Living. Then it is suggested to get an estimate from All Exteriors for proper insulation and ventilation to help prevent the ice dams from forming again.

Prevention

Of course, the ideal situation is to prevent ice dams from forming in the first place. This is best accomplished by addressing your home’s roofing system.

Wisconsin ceiling contractors can inspect your ceilings for any signs of damage or potential issues. They can identify areas where heat may be escaping, such as cracks or gaps, and provide solutions for repair or sealing. Experienced contractors can also help address ice dams by ensuring proper ventilation in your attic or roof space, which helps regulate temperatures and minimize the risk of ice dams.

Professional roofers can help you assess your current insulation levels and recommend appropriate insulation materials for your ceilings. They can seal all points where warm air enters from your living space immediately below the roof sheathing. Keeping your living space well-insulated can prevent conduction and convection of heat through the ceiling. Venting the roof to remove any heat that does leak is the final step.

Taking these steps will not only prevent ice dams, it will eliminate a significant loss of heat from your home.  You can create a more cozy and energy-efficient home environment during the winter season by working with contractors who specialize in comprehensive winterization techniques. These professionals can provide guidance, perform necessary repairs, and ensure your ceilings are adequately insulated to withstand the cold weather. Truly a win-win solution!