# Lindus Construction

## The Premier Home Improvement Company in Minneapolis, St. Paul, & Western Wisconsin

## [Considerations Before Buying a Fixer Upper Home](https://lindusconstruction.com/blog/considerations-buying-home-need-tlc/)

There are lots of reasons that a potential homeowner might opt for a fixer upper instead of a move-in ready home.  The biggest of these motivators tends to be the ability to buy a home below market value and create a space that reflects the homeowners’ tastes.  Determining whether or not to buy a fixer upper ultimately boils down to each individual homeowner.  Here are some things to reflect upon before purchasing a home in need of serious TLC so that you don’t find yourself tied to a money pit.![fixer upper home exterior before renovation](https://lindusconstruction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/White-Black-Modern-Photo-Collage-Before-After-Youtube-Thumbnail.jpg)

## Review the Home Inspection Carefully

A home inspection will provide you with a detailed analysis about a property, including any red flags about features of the home that need immediate attention, such as [roofing](https://lindusconstruction.com/roofing/), [siding](https://lindusconstruction.com/siding/), or [windows](https://lindusconstruction.com/windows/).  It’s well worth the few hundred dollars to have this done on any property you’re strongly considering the purchase of so that you understand its immediate needs and are able to determine whether it’s the right property for you.

![bad roof](https://lindusconstruction.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/Lindus_b04.jpg)

## Understand Your Budget

Oftentimes, you can finance home improvements with your mortgage loan.  This can be a great way to get the money you need to help breathe new life into a tired home, especially when projects add to the value of the home.  Upgrades like roofing, siding, or installing a [high-performance gutter system](https://lindusconstruction.com/gutters/) can make a significant difference in both function and long-term protection.  Just be sure to do your homework on the costs, add a little padding for unexpected budget overages.  However, if immediate fixes are needed and your line of credit is tapped, you may want to forego the purchase for something that is more in line with your budget.

## Consider Your Available Time

If you’re already working full-time, coaching your child’s soccer team and leading a book club, do you _really _have time to renovate an entire home, doing most of the work yourself?  This holds especially true if you’re on a time crunch to move in, as living in a construction zone can be rather unsettling (as can microwave dinners & cold cuts for the next 6 months…)

![spray foam insulation](https://lindusconstruction.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/insulation623-3NEW.jpeg)

## Evaluate the Neighborhood

One of the most important factors in determining the price of a home is its location.  Is the house available at a bargain price because it’s by the city’s garbage dump or because the previous homeowners didn’t care to spend the time or money on cosmetic items such as landscaping and staining their fence and deck?  The neighborhood’s crime rate is also worth researching.

## Research the Home’s History

Disclosure laws vary by state and it is not always mandatory that a potential buyer be informed if the home’s owner is in prison or if a death has taken place in the home.  Ways of verifying a home’s past include talking to neighbors and checking city records and police reports.

![home improvement project - new roof, gutters, siding, deck](https://lindusconstruction.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/home-remodeling-services.jpeg)

 

 

## Final Thoughts

Buying a home can be a life-changing decision and nowhere is this truer than when buying a property in need of TLC.  It’s okay to take a step back and carefully evaluate the pros and cons of the specific property you’re considering so at the end of the day, the decision you make is right for you and your family.

If you’re considering a fixer upper and want to better understand what updates may be needed, our team can help evaluate your home and recommend the right exterior improvements to protect your investment.  [Contact us today to learn more.](https://lindusconstruction.com/contact-us/)

## [Six Winter Specific Insulation Problems](https://lindusconstruction.com/blog/six-winter-specific-insulation-problems/)

In the winter months, the internal temperature of your home is dramatically different from that outdoors.  For this reason, home insulation deficiencies can be easier to spot.  If you’re experiencing any of the below scenarios, it’s a silent signal from your home that [more insulation](https://lindusconstruction.com/insulation/), ventilation, and [attic air sealing](https://lindusconstruction.com/blog/fast-facts-about-attic-air-sealing/) are likely needed.

## Chilly Rooms & Floors

If exterior air can make its way into your home, it’s not long before floors become unbearably cold and [rooms are much cooler than norma](https://lindusconstruction.com/blog/making-your-home-more-comfortable/)l.  The rooms that are the most susceptible to lower winter temperatures are most often above the garage or right below the attic.

### Go Behind the Scenes on a Recent Insulation and Ventilation Project:

    []()

## Pricey Heating Bills

If your home energy bills [skyrocket in the winter months](https://lindusconstruction.com/blog/eight-ways-to-save-on-your-heating-bills-this-winter/), it’s a signal that your furnace is running more than it should.  Not only does this cost you more money, but it also puts unnecessary strain on your furnace, making it more likely that it will wear out faster than it should.

## Ice Dams

An ice dam is a layer of ice that forms on a roof edge.  Rather than permitting the melting snow to exit the roof, the blanket of ice backs up onto the roof, below the shingles, into the [soffits](https://lindusconstruction.com/blog/soffit-fascia-integral-part-homes-defense-system/), and then into your home’s interior.  Inconsistent roof temperatures and [lackluster insulation](https://lindusconstruction.com/insulation/) and ventilation are responsible for the formation of [ice dams](https://lindusconstruction.com/blog/icedamrisks/).

![Twin Cities home with excessive icicles](https://lindusconstruction.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/iStock-539106517.jpg)

## Frozen Pipes

If pipes within your home’s walls freeze in the winter, it’s a red flag that [your insulation could be improved upon](https://lindusconstruction.com/blog/six-winter-specific-insulation-problems/).  Proper levels of insulation on your home’s exterior walls ensure that pipes do not burst, causing thousands of dollars’ worth of damage.

## Wet Attic Insulation

During the wintertime, the [stack effect](https://lindusconstruction.com/blog/what-is-the-stack-effect-why-should-i-care/) causes exterior air to be drawn in through crevices in your basement and then rechanneled up the walls of your home.  The air leaves your attic through unsealed areas, but not before creating frost due to the temperature variances.  As temperatures heat up, the frost liquifies, ruining your attic insulation and creating mold.  The process of attic air sealing in tandem with correct insulation levels will curtail air from escaping the home.

![Attic showing signs of poor venting and insulation](https://lindusconstruction.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/attic-frost-3.jpg)

## Cold Air Coming in Through Wall Outlets

When exterior air can filter indoors, air infiltration occurs.  A common spot air can leak through in older homes is through the light switches and wall outlets located on exterior walls.  When this occurs, it’s a sign more insulation is needed.

[Contact us today](https://lindusconstruction.com/contact-us/) to get started on your next home remodeling project.

## [Does a Metal Roof Really Lower the Cost of Home Insurance?](https://lindusconstruction.com/blog/does-a-metal-roof-really-lower-the-cost-of-home-insurance/)

Your homeowners insurance rates can depend on an array of factors.  Here are four of the most common ones.

![factors that impact insurance rates](https://lindusconstruction.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/factors-that-impact.jpg)

For homeowners in Minnesota and Western Wisconsin, your roof can affect how much you pay for insurance. Hail, wind, snow, and fire are common risks here. Because metal roofs hold up better, many insurance companies consider them lower risk.

If you’re considering a metal roof, [a professional inspection](https://lindusconstruction.com/contact-us/) can help determine whether your home may qualify for insurance savings.

Savvy owners know there are [steps they can take to lower their homeowner’s insurance rates](https://lindusconstruction.com/blog/7-surprising-things-that-lower-home-insurance-premiums/).  And if you’re one of those, you may have heard rumors about roofing and its relationship to premium costs.  Well, it’s true that the installation of [long-lasting roofing materials](https://lindusconstruction.com/roofing/shingle-styles-colors/) can help you save money on home insurance.  That’s because the risk of an insurance company having to cover a [roof replacement](https://lindusconstruction.com/roofing/) due to storm damage is minimal.  In fact, insurance companies cover [metal roofs](https://lindusconstruction.com/roofing/metal-roofing/) and often offer a discount for their installation. Here’s what you need to know.

## Does A Metal Roof Always Lower Your Insurance?

Bear in mind that metal roof insurance may not be lower than other roofing materials.  However, companies like [Progressive do consider the type of roof material you have](https://www.progressive.com/answers/how-roof-type-impacts-insurance/) and admit that there is often a metal roof insurance discount.  Before you pull the trigger on a new roof installation, verify how much a metal roof saves on insurance with your agent.

![](https://lindusconstruction.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/metal-roof-blue.jpg)

## Homeowners Insurance And Metal Roofs

There are many reasons a new metal roof may qualify for an insurance discount. In the Upper Midwest, insurers often look at several key factors. Here are the most cited:

### Longevity

[Metal roofs](https://lindusconstruction.com/roofing/metal-roofing/) can last 50 years or more. This makes them more appealing than [cedar shake roofs](https://lindusconstruction.com/blog/the-facts-about-cedar-shake-roofing/), which have limited lifespans.  Metal roofing also has warranties that state they will not warp, crack, chip, or peel.

### Durability

A home’s roof is exposed to the elements year-round. Metal roofing holds up well in extreme heat and cold. Its design allows it to shed rain, snow, and ice dams, and it also resists high winds.

Metal roofing has the highest possible impact-resistance rating, which makes metal roofs unlikely to suffer hail damage.

This durability matters in Minnesota and Wisconsin. Hailstorms and freeze-thaw cycles are common here.

Bonus read: [Find A Roofing Contractor to Help with Your Hail Damage Roof Insurance Claim](https://lindusconstruction.com/blog/find-hail-damage-roof-insurance-claim-contractor/)

### Fire Resistance

Another way a metal roof can lower your insurance is through fire resistance.  This material won’t combust under fire, and while over time, it can melt, but few fires are hot enough to make this happen.  If you’re considering a metal roof, opt for one that has a Class A rating, which is the best fire protection.

## ![Fast Facts About Metal Roofing New](https://lindusconstruction.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Fast-Facts-About-Metal-Roofing-New.jpg)Myths About Metal Roofs

Even after finding out the answer to whether a metal roof can lower the cost of home insurance is “yes,” some homeowners are still deterred because of [metal roofing myths](https://lindusconstruction.com/blog/metal-roofs-fact-vs-fiction/) and online misinformation.

One common misconception is that metal is louder than asphalt roofing. In fact, if there is proper [attic insulation](https://lindusconstruction.com/insulation/), a metal roof can prevent loud noises, even during storms.

Another common misconception is that metal roofs are more likely than other materials to encounter a lightning strike. This is not true. If a lightning strike does happen, a metal roof is less likely to ignite than cedar shake or asphalt roofing.

![minneapolis metal roof](https://lindusconstruction.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/4CF4ED3B-7E05-4822-890F-C32174C0249C.jpeg)

## Frequently Asked Questions About Metal Roofs and Insurance

### Do Insurance Companies in Minnesota Offer Discounts for Metal Roofs?

Many insurance companies in Minnesota see metal roofs as lower risk. Discounts vary by provider. Durability, fire resistance, and hail resistance often play a role.

### How Much Can a Metal Roof Lower Insurance Premiums?

Insurance savings depend on the provider and the roof installed. Some homeowners see small discounts. Others save over time because metal roofs last longer and lead to fewer claims.

### Does Installation Quality Affect Insurance Discounts?

Yes. Proper installation matters. Insurance companies review roof age and installation records.

![Metal roofing on a stucco home.](https://lindusconstruction.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/4517-18th-Ave-S-3.jpeg)

## A Final Word On Metal Roof Insurance

To learn more about homeowners insurance and metal roofs, it’s wise to consult your agent. They can guide you on the roofing criteria needed to lower your insurance rates. Your insurance agent can also provide details regarding a metal roof insurance discount and give names of reputable roofers.

If you’re looking for a reliable roofing contractor, we have decades of experience along with offering a lifetime workmanship guarantee. If any of our installations fail, rest assured, the replacement will be covered at no cost to you.  Learn why many [homeowners choose Lindus Construction for their metal roof installations](https://lindusconstruction.com/blog/why-choose-metal-roof-installation/) and [contact us](https://lindusconstruction.com/contact-us/) today if you have any questions.

## [Dos & Don’ts of Homeowners Hail Damage Insurance Claims](https://lindusconstruction.com/blog/dos-donts-of-homeowners-hail-insurance-claims/)

For more than 45 years, we’ve helped homeowners deal with hail insurance claims. We’ve also seen [what can go wrong after a storm](https://lindusconstruction.com/blog/hail-damage-separating-fact-fiction/). To help you avoid common mistakes, here are the do’s and don’ts of homeowners hail insurance claims.

![storm](https://lindusconstruction.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/IMG_4383.jpg)

## Contact Your Insurance Company & Reputable Contractor

**DO** contact your insurance company and a reputable contractor as soon as possible after the damage occurs. After major storms, contractors book up fast. Insurance adjusters do too. In the Midwest, winter weather can delay roof work. Acting quickly can help you avoid waiting until spring for your [roofing project](https://lindusconstruction.com/roofing/).

**DO** set a time for you, your spouse, a reputable contractor, and the insurance adjuster to meet. After large storms, insurance companies often send adjusters from out of state. Meeting in person helps your contractor explain issues like the [effects of hail on your home](https://lindusconstruction.com/blog/effects-hail-home/). This is harder to do later by phone after [the adjuster has returned to their home office](https://lindusconstruction.com/blog/door-knocking-contractors-buyer-beware/).

![storm damage roof](https://lindusconstruction.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/IMG_4382.jpg)

## Understanding Your Home Insurance Policy

**DO** keep a copy of your homeowner’s insurance policy and carefully consider the coverage you need before purchasing. If you need to file a hail damage roof insurance claim, have the policy handy so you understand what you’re entitled to.

## Get The Facts On Your Roof Warranty

**DO** know that manufacturer warranties on items such as [gutters](https://lindusconstruction.com/gutters/), roofing, and [siding](https://lindusconstruction.com/siding/) are typically voided if hail damage occurs and affected areas are not repaired or replaced.

![storm damage](https://lindusconstruction.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/IMG_4373.jpg)

## Avoid Storm Chasing Contractors

**DO NOT** sign with the first company that knocks on your door after a storm. After widespread hail damage, storm-chasing contractors often move quickly through affected areas and promise fast fixes.

These companies may leave before work is complete or perform work that fails later. Homeowners often have no way to contact them once problems appear. Learn how to protect yourself from [storm-related contractor scams](https://lindusconstruction.com/blog/storm/) and how to spot the warning signs of [storm-chasing contractors](https://lindusconstruction.com/blog/protect-storm-chasers/) before making a decision.

## Review Adjuster & Contractor Estimates on Hail Damage Insurance Claims

**DO NOT** accept the insurance adjuster’s first estimate if it does not reflect the full scope of work your contractor recommends. Initial estimates may miss damage or fail to account for upgrades you’ve made to your home.

If the numbers do not align, you have the right to ask questions and request revisions. In some cases, homeowners choose to work with an independent adjuster or pursue additional review through their insurance provider or state insurance office.

![hail to roof](https://lindusconstruction.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/Hail-2.jpg)

## Properly Vet Contractors

**DO NOT** feel forced to use a contractor referred to you by the insurance company. Oftentimes, their motivation is to complete the work as cheaply as possible, shortchanging the homeowner through subpar materials and shortcuts. Hiring your own contractor means their incentive is to satisfy you rather than the insurance company.

Use these tips to [find a roofing contractor to help with your hail damage roof insurance claim](https://lindusconstruction.com/blog/find-hail-damage-roof-insurance-claim-contractor/).

## Get a Behind the Scenes Look at Storm Damage Repair Completed by our Team:

    []()

## Helping You Navigate Storm Damage Repairs:

At Lindus Construction, all of our estimators go through extensive training and possess the knowledge to identify storm damage to your home. This is one of the [many reasons why we receive excellent reviews](https://lindusconstruction.com/blog/top-five-reasons-lindus-construction-receives-excellent-reviews/). We are able to help you work with your insurance company to get your home restored as soon as possible. Our full service construction company is ready to help you with your storm damage and hail insurance claim needs.

[If your home has recently been hit by hail, review this hail damage inspection checklist to help you figure out exactly what to do after a storm.](https://lindusconstruction.com/blog/four-point-post-hailstorm-checklist/)

## [How to Maximize Your Home’s Heating Efficiency in Cold Weather](https://lindusconstruction.com/blog/cold-maximize-homes-heating-efficiency/)

Winter is approaching and it is that time of year your monthly utility expenses will start to creep up, extra layers of clothing will become necessary and chilly rooms in your home might be your reality. 

Here are a few tips to help you maximize your [home’s heating efficiency](https://lindusconstruction.com/blog/proper-planning-and-patience/) and save on heating costs during the cold season.

## Assess your Home’s Insulation

If the [insulation in your home](https://lindusconstruction.com/insulation/) isn’t up to snuff, you should consider contacting a contractor for an inspection because you will be putting more money back in your pocket instead of just turning up your thermostat. Proper insulation is the key to keeping your [heating costs under control](https://lindusconstruction.com/blog/six-reasons-energy-costs-killing/).

If you live in an older home that has ‘personality,’ most likely your walls and floors have started to settle and sag over time and many older attics don’t have any sort of insulation at all. The heated air in your home is still forced into areas, such as your uninsulated attic, pushing the hot air right outside. Have your contractor check the [R-value in your insulation material](https://lindusconstruction.com/blog/home-insulation-cheat-sheet/), which is the resistance to the flow of heat. The higher the R-value, the better the insulation. Verify that it reflects your region’s climate standards and your existing heating equipment.

![fiberglass insulation next to a tape measure, staple gun, mask, gloves, and a tape measure](https://lindusconstruction.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Untitled-design.jpg)

 

## Seal Gaps in Doors and Windows

Take a look at the [doors](https://lindusconstruction.com/windows/sliding-doors/)and [windows](https://lindusconstruction.com/windows/) in your home for gaps. Seal anything that needs attention, otherwise you are just heating the neighborhood. We recommend using Energy Star® sealing materials to have the best bet of sealing gaps. The ducts and vents in your home lose about 20% of the heat pushed through them. That is not a direct reflection of your furnace, but rather the leaks and failing seals that exist around them. Turn your furnace on high heat to uncover these issues following the duct work system in your home.

![Caulk installation on a home with red siding.](https://lindusconstruction.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/c.jpg)

## Use Window Shades

Blinds on your windows can actually help increase the insulation in your home. Shades made from one-piece materials are made to trap energy in. Drawing these types of shades on colder nights will save you as much energy as in-floor insulation and you will definitely notice a difference.

![Infinity Round Top Window, Casement Windows, and Picture Window](https://lindusconstruction.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Infinity-Round-Top-Window-Casement-Windows-and-Picture-Window-scaled-1.jpg)

## Test For Hidden Leaks

Having a [home performance test](https://lindusconstruction.com/home-performance/) can identify areas for improvement in your home. Areas that they are able to check more easily than doing it yourself are the walls between your home & garage as well as your attic. Here at [Lindus Construction](https://lindusconstruction.com/), we have expert home installation technicians that will use our special diagnostic tools to pinpoint all the hidden air leaks in your home and properly seal them for maximum saving and comfort. We offer spray foam, blow-in cellulose & fiberglass insulation to fit the needs of all of our customers.

Many of the products we specialize in can help you maximize your home’s heating efficiency, and save you money on your utility costs. For more information about our home improvement services, [contact us today](https://lindusconstruction.com/contact-us/).

## [Ice Dam vs Icicles on Your Roof](https://lindusconstruction.com/blog/icicles-vs-ice-dams/)

## What Is An Ice Dam On A Roof?

Ice dams and icicles often get confused, but they are not the same thing. While icicles can be a normal winter occurrence, ice dams can cause serious damage if left untreated.

An ice dam is a layer of ice that forms near a roof’s edge and prevents melting snow from draining properly. Over time, [an ice dam can cause water to back up](https://lindusconstruction.com/blog/icedamrisks/) beneath your [shingles](https://lindusconstruction.com/roofing/shingle-styles-colors/), eventually leaking into the interior of your home.

Many homeowners assume icicles always mean an ice dam has formed. That isn’t always true. Here’s how to tell the difference between icicles and ice dams — and when to take action.

## Do Icicles Always Mean Ice Dams?

Like ice dams, icicles need cold temperatures, snow, and warmth to cause the snow to melt. Once the melted water comes in contact with the eave of the roof, the water again freezes. Icicles hanging from your roof can signal an ice dam. However, ice dams can be present without the existence of icicles.

Icicles that exist only on a home’s gutters without water trapped behind them are a normal winter occurrence, not a warning sign that an ice dam has formed. While icicles can prove problematic in high traffic areas, such as walkways, they often do not pose a significant threat to the exterior, your [gutters](https://lindusconstruction.com/gutters/), or the layers of your [roof](https://lindusconstruction.com/roofing/).

![ice dam](https://lindusconstruction.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/ice-dam.jpg)

## Ice Dams On Your Roof

The place an ice dam forms on your roof is dependent on its style and slope. Most often, they commence growth on the roof edge and begin to back up from there.

Two of the most telltale signs that your home has an active ice dam are if moisture is present in your attic or if there are damp areas on your home’s ceilings. If either of these occurrences are happening, it means that ice damming has compromised the membrane of your home’s roof.

However, there are less obvious signs of ice dams that homeowners often miss, allowing for substantial damage to occur. If there is an abundance of snow on the ground and on a porch roof, but minimal snow on the home’s main roof, it’s a signal that heat is escaping your attic because of subpar [home insulation](https://lindusconstruction.com/insulation/) and [ventilation](https://lindusconstruction.com/blog/proper-insulation-ventilation-create-long-lasting-roof/).

![ice dam](https://lindusconstruction.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/IMG_0033.jpg)

## A Temporary Solution For Ice Damming

Attempting to remove an ice dam through chipping away at the ice will only damage your shingles and likely [void your roof’s warranty](https://lindusconstruction.com/blog/ways-void-roof-warranty/). [Using roof salt pucks will also have negative impacts on your home.](https://lindusconstruction.com/blog/six-reasons-why-salt-pucks-spell-trouble-on-your-roof/)

The best way to remove an ice dam is through low pressure steaming. This technique utilizes tap water and brings it to 300 degrees. A technician then uses the steamer to heat up the ice so that it is no longer affixed to the roof. However, failing to address the core issue will only result in a roof needing to be frequently steamed to remove ever-present ice dams.

## A Permanent Solution For Ice Dam Prevention

The underlying cause of an ice dam is inconsistent roof temperatures. Diagnosing the core issue should be done by a reputable contractor that is able to perform diagnostic testing such as a heat map analysis, [blower door testing](https://lindusconstruction.com/blog/icedamprevention/), and FLIR imaging.

These tools allow them to create a custom plan that considers your home’s need for additional insulation, ventilation, and attic air sealing. All of these solutions can help with [ice dam prevention](https://lindusconstruction.com/blog/real-truth-ice-dams-get-rid-forever/).

_**Here’s What You Need to Know About Blower Door Testing:**_

    []()

## Frequently Asked Questions About Ice Dams

### What Causes Ice Dams to Form?

Ice dams form when heat escapes from the attic and melts snow on the roof. As the water runs toward the colder roof edge, it refreezes and creates a dam that prevents proper drainage.

### Are Icicles Always a Sign of an Ice Dam?

No. Icicles can form naturally when melting snow refreezes at the roof edge. While they can sometimes indicate an ice dam, icicles alone do not always mean there is a roofing problem.

### Can Ice Dams Cause Water Damage Inside a Home?

Yes. Ice dams can force water underneath shingles and into the home, leading to damaged ceilings, walls, insulation, and attic spaces if left unaddressed.

If ice dams keep coming back, Lindus Construction can [inspect your home](https://lindusconstruction.com/contact-us/) and help stop them for good.

## [What You Need to Know About a Contractor License Number: Top 5 Considerations](https://lindusconstruction.com/blog/need-know-contractors-license-number/)

When interviewing potential [contractors and their references](https://lindusconstruction.com/blog/questions-ask-contractors-reference/), a smart homeowner knows to ask whether a contractor is licensed.  Finding out that a contractor is licensed is a good step towards learning more about them, but the discussion should not end there.  If you’re seeking an experienced contractor to help you install a [new roof](https://lindusconstruction.com/roofing/), [insulation](https://lindusconstruction.com/insulation/), [windows](https://lindusconstruction.com/windows/), [siding](https://lindusconstruction.com/siding/), and more, here’s what you should know about their license!

## What is a Contractor License Number? (and How To Verify Registration)

In most states, a contractor’s license number is a unique combo of letters and numbers that are specific to a contractor.  It serves as proof that the contractor is competent to complete work and that they’re executing business legally. Here’s how to authenticate WI & MN contractor’s license numbers.

### DLI License Lookup Links For Minnesota & Wisconsin

DLI is short for Department of Labor and Industry.  The agency oversees the state’s construction codes, licensing, occupational safety and more.

MN: [https://secure.doli.state.mn.us/lookup/licensing.aspx](https://secure.doli.state.mn.us/lookup/licensing.aspx)

WI: [https://app.wi.gov/licensesearch](https://licensesearch.wi.gov/)

## How Does A MN Contractor License Work?

Contractor licensing laws vary from state to state.  In Minnesota, individuals cannot receive contractor licenses.  Rather, licenses are issued to companies, and each company must choose an employee, often an owner, who will serve as the “qualifying person” or license holder.  This individual is the one responsible for taking the mandatory test and completing continuing education requirements.

![caulk](https://lindusconstruction.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/c.jpg)

## Limitations Of A General Contractor’s License

To put things in perspective, just because someone holds a valid driver’s license does not make them a safe driver.  It simply means that at one point they passed their driver’s test and have not committed enough infractions to have their license revoked.  The same logic applies to a contractor’s license.  It simply notates that someone within the company you are working with has passed the exam and is keeping up with their continued education credits.  It does not guarantee that the work they will perform is outstanding.  In fact, shoddy work performed by the contractor does not directly result in the loss of their license, as state licensing agencies are not tasked with the responsibility of consumer protection.

## Contractor Continuing Education Courses

In order to keep their contractor license number current, they are oftentimes required to attend continuing education courses.  This allows contractors to stay up to date with new codes, ethical business practices, and safety requirements.  These courses benefit consumers through higher quality job performances, fewer customer complaints, less potential for liability and increased job site efficiency.

## Contractor License Requirements & Laws By State

Before undertaking a construction project with the help of a contractor, it’s to your benefit to understand what licensing requirements must be met by a contractor, rather than simply taking their word for it.  States like Florida, Kansas, Louisiana, and Ohio do not require a state license for contractors.  Other states leave issuing of contractor licenses to individual counties and contractors must get a license for each county.  Still, others require licenses for only large-scale projects over a certain dollar amount.

## Here’s Why This St. Louis Park, MN Homeowner Chose To Partner With Lindus Construction:

[IFRAME](https://www.youtube.com/embed/c8sToPUJsnY?feature=oembed&rel=0&showinfo=0&modestbranding=1&)

## [A Word About Winter Window Replacement](https://lindusconstruction.com/blog/a-word-about-winter-window-replacement/)

## Can Your Replace Windows In The Winter?

Many homeowners are surprised to learn that getting a replacement window installation can happen year-round.  The rough opening of the window is exposed to Mother Nature for only a short time frame in order to protect the home from damage.  Window installers are also careful to only work on one window at a time.  If installing replacement windows takes multiple days, the old windows remain in place overnight.  Insulating foams and sealants that are made for cold weather ensure that there are no issues which shrinkage or adhesion.  Replacing windows in the winter is entirely possible even if outdoor temperatures are cold and chilly.  What’s even better, is that winter window replacement can be done and completed comfortably for homeowners.

![window install](https://lindusconstruction.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Lindus_Farmhouse39.jpg)

## Considerations For Your Winter Window Replacement Selection

The homeowners that have the most long-term satisfaction with their home window installation project opt for windows that are custom ordered for the opening they are being installed in (which is known as a full frame window replacement).  [Infinity® Replacement Windows from Marvin](https://lindusconstruction.com/windows/infinity-replacement-windows/) are a highly reliable window because they are manufactured by a company based in Minnesota.  This allows them to have superior knowledge of the extreme weather conditions the windows must withstand.  This is evident by the inside pane of glass being warmer than other major brands.   Marvin Infinity® windows also imitate the aesthetics of wood without the concern of damage from moisture.  Even more appealing is that the windows can be color matched to a home’s preexisting woodwork.

### Watch Marvin Replacement Windows Being Installed by Our Craftsmen:

[IFRAME](https://www.youtube.com/embed/KjC0_f6M680?feature=oembed&rel=0&showinfo=0&modestbranding=1&)

 

## Pay Attention To Window Pane Configuration

When comparing window options, it can be easy to become overwhelmed by the [window jargon](https://lindusconstruction.com/blog/window-jargon-translation-guide/) the manufacturers use to disclose their product.  Some homeowners automatically assume that [triple pane windows](https://lindusconstruction.com/blog/single-double-triple-pane/) are always superior in quality to double pane.  While triple pane can be better than double pane, the answer comes down to the actual manufacturer of the product and the amount of thermal transfer within the window pane. Many triple pane windows have glass packs that are close together.  This allows the cold exterior air to filter from the outside pane inward, making them less effective than double pane window lines like Infinity® from Marvin.

![](https://lindusconstruction.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/WindowsWoodbury-5.jpg)

## Why Full Frame Window Replacements Are The Way To Go

Regardless of the window manufacturer you choose, the most important component of a window project is the installation techniques utilized by your contractor.  [Full frame window replacement](https://lindusconstruction.com/blog/insert-window-vs-full-frame-window-replacement/) allows the contractor to fully address any moisture and air infiltration issues because the windows are completely removed down to the studs.  The same cannot be said for insert window replacement, where the new windows are installed with the frame already in place.  While insert window replacement is cheaper because it is less labor intensive, the homeowners that experience the most long-term satisfaction with their windows are those that opted for full frame [window replacement](https://lindusconstruction.com/windows/).

## [Differences Between a 3 Season Room vs. 4 Season Room](https://lindusconstruction.com/blog/3-season-vs-4-season-rooms/)

While the most obvious answer to this question would appear to be one season-there’s a little bit more to it than that.  In this blog, we’ll clarify the differences between a 3 season and 4 season room so if you’re in the market for one you’re able to make an educated decision on what type of sunroom or [deck and patio](https://lindusconstruction.com/decks-patios/) enclosure is best for your home.

## What Is A 3 Season Room?

A three season room is designed for use in spring, summer and fall but cannot be utilized in the winter due to the fact that it is not connected to your home’s HVAC system which prevents its temperature from being regulated.  4 season rooms have more insulation than 3 season rooms (which in some cases have no insulation).  A four season porch must follow the same codes (floor, wall, ceiling, insulation, windows, etc.) as a standard room addition.

## What Is A 4 Season Room?

A four seasons room has more insulation than 3 seasons rooms (which in some cases have no insulation.  A four season porch must follow the same codes (floor, wall, ceiling, insulation, windows, etc.) as a standard room addition.

![three season porch ](https://lindusconstruction.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/31F2F4F1-DDEA-48C3-B309-D8870F62AC84.jpeg)

## Perks of Each Sunroom

### Three Season Room

- Keeps pollen, dust, dirt, direct sunlight, rain & mosquitoes out of your entertaining  
  
  space
- Less costly than a 4 season room since it is not temperature regulated
- Can be constructed quicker

![](https://lindusconstruction.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/IMG_8147-1.jpg)

### Four Seasons Room

- A year-round entertaining space
- Increases your property’s value more than a 3 season room does
-  4 season rooms are often filled with windows which gives the vibe of being outdoors without having to leave an air conditioned or heated area

## Drawbacks of Each Sunroom

### Three Season Room

- Can’t be used year-round
- Adds less value than a four season room

### Four Season

- More expensive
- Takes longer to construct

## Go Behind the Scenes on a Deck & Sun Room Project Completed By Our Craftsmen:

[IFRAME](https://www.youtube.com/embed/FAc0T3VNT_s?feature=oembed&rel=0&showinfo=0&modestbranding=1&)

## [Four Insurance Questions Every MN & WI Homeowner Should Ask Today](https://lindusconstruction.com/blog/stormcoverage/)

## Storm Damage and Changing Insurance Policies in Minnesota and Wisconsin

Wind and hail are common in Minnesota and Wisconsin. They damage roofs, windows, siding, and gutters.

[Lindus Construction](https://lindusconstruction.com/about-lindus/) has helped homeowners recover from storms for over 45 years. We know how to work with insurance companies to get homes repaired and often improved.

Lately, we’ve seen a problem. Many homeowners don’t know their insurance has changed until it’s too late. They’re left without the coverage they thought they had.

That’s tough news to swallow. Even more frustrating is the unexpected out-of-pocket expenses that follow.  To help, we put together four key insurance questions every homeowner should ask.

![storm damage](https://lindusconstruction.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/bruce.jpeg)

## 1. Do I Have RCV (Replacement Cost Value) or ACV (Actual Cost Value)?

### What is Replacement Cost Value?

Replacement cost value pays to repair or replace damaged property with new items of like kind and quality at today’s prices, without deduction for depreciation.

**Pays:** The cost to replace your damaged or stolen property with new, similar items.

**Premiums:** Usually higher.

**Benefit:** Provides full coverage for new replacements without factoring in depreciation.

**Drawback:** Higher monthly or annual premium costs.

### What is Actual Cost Value?

Actual cost value pays the current market value of your damaged property, accounting for depreciation due to age and wear and tear.

**Pays:** Replacement cost minus depreciation.

**Premiums:** Typically lower.

**Benefit:** Lower upfront cost.

**Drawback:** You pay out of pocket for the difference to buy new items.

![storm damage](https://lindusconstruction.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/AACD9584-D97B-4199-904F-4B8394A67F6E.jpeg)

## 2. What is My Insurance Deductible?

It’s likely much higher than it was 10 years ago. Recent data shows that the share of policies with deductibles between $5,000 and $10,000 increased by nearly 50% between 2019 and 2024. A deductible of $500 is almost unheard of these days, and most do not drop below $3,000.

## 3. What Types of Deductibles Are There?

**Flat:** This is a fixed dollar amount you pay for a covered loss, such as $2,500 for a fire, for example.

**Percentage:** This is a percentage of your home’s insured value. It’s often applied to claims for specific events like [wind and hail damage repairs](https://lindusconstruction.com/storm-damage/), where a 1% or 2% deductible would be a specific amount based on your home’s value.

![window installation](https://lindusconstruction.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/Lindus_GP_18.jpg)

## 4. What is a Cosmetic Damage Exclusion?

Many insurance companies include a “cosmetic damage exclusion” in their policies, meaning they won’t pay for damage that’s only cosmetic. That includes things like dents, dings, scratches, scuffs, fading, staining, or pitting on exterior surfaces like [siding](https://lindusconstruction.com/siding/), [roofs](https://lindusconstruction.com/roofing/), gutters, or [windows](https://lindusconstruction.com/windows/). To get coverage for cosmetic damage, you often need to add a special endorsement or rider to your policy.

At Lindus Construction, our estimators know how to spot storm damage. Their experience is one reason we earn so many great reviews.

We know how confusing insurance claims can be after a storm. We work with your insurance company to make the process faster and less stressful. We handle everything from inspection to restoration. That way, your home gets back to normal sooner.

If your home was recently hit by hail, read our [Dos & Don’ts of Homeowners Hail Insurance Claims](https://lindusconstruction.com/blog/dos-donts-of-homeowners-hail-insurance-claims/).  It explains what to do and what to avoid when filing a homeowners insurance claim to prevent costly mistakes.