Quality vs. Cheap Home Improvements
Our team answers homeowner questions every weekend on WCCO 830 AM from 9:00 am-10:00 am. Have your most pressing home improvement questions addressed by calling or texting 651-989-9226. Here’s the must-know information our COO, Andy Lindus, shared on 7.4.20.
The most expensive roofing project is the one you pay for twice. This makes it imperative that you interview multiple contractors and contact homeowners on their reference list. Rushing this process often leads to hiring a rookie contractor that is prone to installation mistakes and quickly run out of business. Beware of storm damage repair companies that go door-to-door. Often, they apply high pressure sales tactics and cannot be reached after a contract has been signed and payment has been made. If they do complete the work, it is often subpar. In some cases, these contractors will fail to properly plug roof penetrations, causing weak spots to implode if they are stepped on.
Gutter construction is another home improvement where settling on the cheapest product often leaves homeowners feeling disappointed. While many gutter contraptions claim to be clog-free, very few are. Filter devices will need to be cleaned to remain free of debris. A quick online search of gutter topper reviews reveals that prices can be more expensive than LeafGuard® Brand Gutters, which are a gutter and a topper combined in one piece. LeafGuard® Brand Gutters have a high level of satisfaction with homeowners and have even earned the Good Housekeeping Seal of approval. The patented, one-piece system is custom fabricated from aluminum and has been verified to handle over 32 inches of rain in an hour. They are guaranteed never to clog, or the installing contractor will clean them for free.
Homeowners evaluating full frame vs insert window replacement should fully understand what these terms mean prior to making a decision. Full frame window replacement, while more expensive, allows the window replacement contractor the ability to inspect and address any preexisting air and water infiltration. An insert window, on the other hand, is the replacement of the window sashes only. In this process, glass space is lessened, decreasing the amount of natural light found within the home. Infinty® from Marvin Windows have a particularly high rate of satisfaction rate because of the energy efficient properties. They’re manufactured in Minnesota and are built to withstand our climate’s extreme weather conditions.
It goes without saying that not all siding materials are created equally. In fact, even the finish used on the siding can have a significant impact on its aesthetics, durability, and longevity. Homeowners opting for LP® SmartSide® should take a hard look at Diamond Kote® from Wausau Supply. Those that prefer the look of steel should investigate the finishes offered by Quality Edge. Both finishes transfer to the next owner of your home, increasing its resale value.
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