House Design News

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How to Choose the Right Siding for Your Needs Posted: 09 Jul 2014 12:34 PM PDT If you’re in the process of choosing siding for your home, you probably realize how daunting the task really is. There’s lots to consider with this type of home improvement project, from cost to colors and beyond. Will you do the siding yourself or will you hire a professional to get it done? Will you go with the standard siding style or something fancier such as shingles or scallops? Your decision will be based in large part on your budget, but the style of your home or business, and your location also play a big role. Factors to Consider When Choosing Siding With so many factors playing into your siding decision, it’s a wonder how anyone gets this job done! But once you know the basics, and arm yourself with the proper knowledge, you’ll be a pro at siding options in no time. Better Homes and Gardens advises considering six basic issues when it comes to siding: Water Resistance The first thing issue to consider is water resistance. Choosing a siding material that is resistant to water will last longer and stretch your home’s value as a result. Installation Next up is ease of installation. If you’re a DIY’er and want to tackle this project on your own or with some buddies, make sure you choose siding that gels with your skill set and requires only basic tools. Energy Efficiency Energy efficiency is another important factor. BHG recommends checking the R-value rating to take full advantage of energy savings. Check into what you will need for insulation as well. Aesthetics It should go without saying, but make sure aesthetics is at the top of your list too. You’ll be looking at your home as you come and go for many, many years so make sure you absolutely love the color, style, and corresponding enhancements such as shutters and trim. Even if you plan to move after rehabbing the home, you’ll need to choose a style and color that complements the home and surrounding neighborhood, and that would appeal to potential home buyers. Versatility and Durability of the Materials Keep versatility of the materials you’ll be using in mind. Is a particular style too complicated for you to handle? Does a particular siding type present an added challenge over others? Be sure to assess what adjustments or added expenses you’ll need to tack on if so. Durability is another thing to consider. Not only do you need to make sure the siding type you settle on is able to resist extreme temperatures common to your area, you also should be certain it will stand up to normal wear and tear. Do Your Homework If you’re just starting out on your siding journey, you’ll need to do your due diligence first. Consulting trusted resources like Consumer Reports is a wise idea. There you can find unbiased reviews on not only types of siding but also specific companies in your area. Consumer Reports can provide you with buying advice as well as unbiased ratings and siding reviews to help you choose the best method. If you plan on hiring a professional sider, check out reviews on the company and ensure he or she has the proper licenses and insurance in your state. Meet with several companies first before you make a decision to assess a good fit. This article was written by Jared Miret, husband and home handyman. His is happy to share his knowledge and skills with you. He urges you to consider the environmental benefits of metal paneling during your search for siding for your business.

Stop Your Home From Falling Into Decay With These 4 Tips Posted: 09 Jul 2014 12:34 AM PDT If you ever want to sell your home you’ll want to make sure people get a great first impression as they walk up from the curb. The problem with that is that it normally costs a pretty penny to get your house a new face lift. A few simple maintenance routines will greatly improve your house’s looks and you’ll feel proud every time you come home. Lets take a look at four tips to stop your home from falling into decay… Paint Painting the exterior makes the house look cheerier, cleaner, and newer. It protects the house from wind, sun and rain and preserves the surface. A good paint job should last fifteen years. Painting is one of the easiest and least expensive ways to keep your house from looking rundown. In addition, you can check on the condition of the windowsills and trim at the same time and should consider replacing those as well. Roof Cleaning and Repair The roof is one of the most visible parts of the house. Keeping it clean and in good repair is vital to the health and safety of your home as well as to its good looks. Don’t put off repairs. If the repair is a matter of a few shingles, you may do it yourself or, if there seems to be a bit more damage, call on roof repair in Houston for estimates. While you’re at it, clean the gutters, and replace broken lengths of gutters and downspouts. You don’t want water damage to the rest of the house as that is the precursor to mold and decay. Front Entrance If fixing the roof is the most vital repair then sprucing up the entry is the one that adds the most charm. A coat of paint in a new color gives the front door added appeal. Check to see if the steps or walkway have cracks or crumbling surfaces. Do spot repairs, then give the surface an overall protective coat. You can also replace worn out hardware. Improved details will update the whole look. Make sure the porch lights work and all the glass is clean and intact. Lawn and Boarders Lawn upkeep is important to the status of the house. Clutter, whether it’s toys, unfinished projects or leftover building materials, makes the house look like it’s falling into decay. Make a point of gathering up the extra equipment in your yard regularly. Keep the lawn mowed and watered. Trim the hedges. If your property has a perimeter fence, keep it in good condition. Replace missing pieces promptly, and maintain the upkeep of the surface. Keeping the house in good condition goes a long way and pays off in the end, no matter what you decide to do for the future. You’ll have a beautiful home to keep and to show.

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