Please do not do this to yourself, unless you have professionally installed hundreds of them before. Our phone rings every single day with requests from people who have either attempted installing them themselves or trusted their best friends, brothers, bowling partner who can do it for them. We have seen MANY entire walls ruined from this happening. Yes, it can be expensive having them professionally installed. However, buying your own windows from a big box store, installing them improperly, etc. is simply a recipe for long term disaster for your home.
Tricky question, a lot of factors involved. By in large, most standard asphalt shingles carry about 20 years, IF installed correctly, with normal non storm damage wear. We carry other types of shingle that are designed to last 50 years! Obviously, those cost more, probably not as much as you think.
Full disclosure, we carry and install both. Many want metal because of the longevity behind them. This is valid. Also, snow tends to slide right off of them, some also like the look of them. If the answer is longevity only, there are now certain shingles that are designed for up to a 50 year life expectancy, at a much lower price than a metal roof. Either way, we have you covered!
Full frame is always going to be the best solution for 99% of window replacement jobs. They do cost considerably more to install. If you are working on a budget, pockets will work in many cases. When you see the gimmick TV ads for cheap windows, they are always pocket replacements, no matter how big the company is with the ad. Make sure you have a consultant with a lot of experience help you with making this major investment. Research and have pointed questions to feel that person out. Doing it the wrong way can be devastating.
Very loaded question. There are several manufacturers that carry various levels of quality. It goes back to the old adage “you get what you pay for.” A couple pieces of advice. First, Consumers Report Magazine recently did extensive studies on all the manufactures (our consultants will have a page of synopsis of this study when they visit your home), it is a great unbiased look into the industry. Second, always beware of a company that only carries one line or from a single manufacturer. With Michigan’s 4 seasons, there are many different products that serve better for different roofing projects. Stick with a professional company that will give you many options for all your roofing, siding, windows and doors projects
We must say, that Andersen Windows holds the top of the line name for their longevity and quality. But there are many other companies that offer very high-quality windows and many different price ranges. Our consultants average over 20 years’ experience in the window industry, let them help you put the right plan of action for you WITH YOU!
In same cases it just is due to age and elements. In many cases, it could be from poor installation, there are too many scenarios to discuss on this page, but very common. In some rare cases it could be from critters getting into the mix. In any case anything can be repaired or replaced.
For most people aesthetics plays a major roll in the replacement of siding. This is very valid being that you are going to be looking at you home several times a day. It also helps with the curb appeal for the value of your home when selling. If your old siding is “shot” there may also be concerns with the structural integrity of certain parts of your home if the components are not properly shielded from climate and other elements.
Believe it or not, this is one of the most common questions asked on internet, pertaining to roofing in general. Arguably, it is the most important part of the structure of your home. Obviously, it keeps elements and critters from entering your home, especially important here in Mid-Michigan. We could elaborate for hours on this, but let our consultants answer the pointed questions on this topic for you.
Many reasons. First, it is impossible to inspect the decking without tearing the shingles off, recovering of bad decking could drastically shorten the life of your new roof, it could also lead to health issues related to mold or other spores potentially living between the decking, underlayment and shingles. Second, it would affect the warranty laid out by the manufacturers, in many cases voiding it all together. Third, when investing in a new roof, you want the longest possible life out of it. A huge part of that is installing new flashings, it is difficult, nearly impossible (to do it correctly) to achieve this without removal of the shingles. We do complete tear offs on all our roofing projects.
Absolutely! Not only will it give value to your home, new siding may also be the deciding factor for many to even entertain looking at your house in the first place, remember you are competing with hundreds if not thousands of other homes on the MLS, don’t disqualify potential buyers form the very first picture they see!
Absolutely! Much like siding, the curb appeal is obvious both driving by and by real estate listing pictures. Also, don’t forget the added energy efficiency to your home to give you a better energy bill and more daily comfort while in your home.