Vinyl Siding Pricing

If you’re thinking about installing vinyl siding for your home, it’s a great option which can not only provide strong benefits over other types of siding, but it can also be more affordable than people sometimes think.

The price of vinyl siding will depend on many factors, not only concerning the type of siding that you use, but the scope and complexity of the job, and any additional work which may need to be done in advance of installing the siding.

Certain types of damage will have to be repaired before beginning. If for example the walls under your existing siding have become exposed and the wood is rotting, it will have to be replaced before your new vinyl siding can be installed.

This graph shows where vinyl siding is in terms of cost in comparison to other siding options. Click here for more specific information on terms of cost of other sidings.

Also check out SidingMagazine.com’s Siding Calculator for accurate ranges for siding replacement costs!

Other steps which can drive up the price of vinyl siding include whether you will be adding or replacing trim, the type of insulation required, and any building permits if they are needed.

By understanding the different factors in the price of vinyl sidinhttp://sidingmagazine.com/the-siding-cost-calculator/g, you can be sure to make an informed decision.

The price of vinyl siding can depend very much on the preparation work required, but it is still a very wise and cost-effective choice in the long run.

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What Windows Are Best?

When you’re replacing your windows, determining what window styles and materials will work best with your home can be a tough choice when there are so many different windows to choose from. Use this guide to window replacement and you’ll know what windows are best for your home or business.

Vinyl

One of the more common window materials in use today is vinyl. Made from a strong plastic, this durable, pliable and long lasting material works great for use with windows. It’s stain resistant and less prone to scratches and dents than conventional materials. Vinyl comes in a wide variety of colors that rarely fade and never need painting. Vinyl windows have one drawback—they are not well insulated against sound or radiant heat transfer.

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These window materials are one of the strongest window frames available. Fiberglass allows the window to have a solid frame while maintaining a resilient shell that resists moisture well, even around pool areas where chlorination can ruin conventional window materials. Best of all, fiberglass can be painted to mimic real wood. Fiberglass’s only down side is that it can be expensive.

Wood

If you’re looking for the ultimate in window frames, wood is the most beautiful option for you. From stained to painted, wooden windows have a style and luster that can’t be beat. Wood is strong, durable, affordable and has a high R-value. Wood windows do a few drawbacks. Regular biannual maintenance is required to keep wood windows resilient against the elements, insects and Mother Nature.

If you are looking for a quote for your windows project, United Home Experts offers a no hassle, no commitment, free quoting.

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Asphalt Shingles – Most Affordable in Roofing Cost Comparison

If you have researched the cost of having a new roof installed, you’ve probably learned that Asphalt Shingles are the most affordable roofing product. For example, Architectural Asphalt Shingles are less than half the cost of Standing Seam Metal Roofing, Inter-locking Metal Roofing and Cedar Roofing Shingles. Asphalt Shingles are 1/3 the cost of Slate Roofing Shingles. If you put this into dollar amounts, you can assume that the installation of Architectural Asphalt Shingles installation will range from $4-$7 per square foot, while Standing Seam Metal Roofing, Inter-locking Metal Roofing and Cedar Roofing Shingles installations range from $8-$13 per square foot, and the installation of Slate Roofing Shingles range from $10-$20 per foot.

The more complex your roofing project is, the more costly your project will end up. The asphalt roofing prices mentioned above are the lowest prices you will find for a new roof. The cost will increase based on the complexity of your roof, that is, the number of cuts, angles and planes of your roof. The cost of your roofing project will also increase based on the incorporation of expensive products such as metal or slate.

Granted, in searching for the best roofing material, some experts same that slate is supreme because of its durability. Chosen for its resistance to corrosion and fire, experts have found that slate roofs need minimal repairs. Slate may be durable, but it is not very affordable, costing anywhere between $10 and $20 per foot in contrast with asphalt roofing ranging between $4 and $7 per square foot. There are so many other factors that may affect the cost of your roofing project. The only way to know for sure is to get a roofing estimate. You may also find our free roofing guide helpful.

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Average Cost of Asphalt Roofing

If you are considering having a new roof installed, it is important to consider the range of roofing costs. There are several reasonsroofing-contractors roofing costs can vary. For example, the type of materials you would like used for your new roof can greatly impact the final cost of the installation. Architectural Asphalt Shingles and Lifetime (or Designer) Architectural Shingles tend to cost significantly less than the average Standing Seam Metal Roofing and Inter-locking Metal Roofing. Cedar Roofing Shingles are slightly more expensive, but not as much as Slate Roofing Shingles, considered the most costly.

A small, low-pitched roof that only requires basic equipment for asphalt roofing installation may only cost between $5500 and $7500, whereas a large, high-pitched roof requiring a more complex installation (one with more cuts, angles and planes) may cost between $11,500 and $14,500. An even larger roof may cost between $17,000 and $25,000. If your roof is neither too small nor too big, you may find that a medium-sized roof with an average installation ranges between $8,500 and $10,500.

In addition to considering the type of roofing materials you choose to have installed and the size and pitch of your roof, there are other factors that may help determine the cost of a new roof. For example, the cost may vary based on the need for sheathing or rot replacement and the need for adding specialty ventilation. These are just a few components provided to give you a general idea of residential roofing costs. The only way to really know for sure is to get a roofing estimate. You may also find our free roofing guide helpful.

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Radiant Insulation Barriers Explained

This is an video explaining how a radiant insulation barrier works. Radiant heat or insulation barriers can be used on walls, in roofs, in attics, or basically anywhere in you home you have access to install a product where it will not be seen.

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Exterior Painting Ideas

Article Summary:This article will help when trying to find creative exterior painting ideas and offer advice on planning and preparation for your next exterior painting project.

Creative exterior painting ideas can make or break a project. If you want to liven up the exterior of your home, a new paint job can add both vitality and character, but the colors and treatments you choose need to be well thought out ahead of time. Scheduling painters can be a real challenge, so don’t be faced with making paint selections and applications too quickly just because the painting contractors are due to arrive tomorrow. There are many factors that you should take into account when you’re preparing to paint the exterior of your home, including the colors of your roof and shutters, your house’s architectural style, and the colors of other homes in the neighborhood.

Unless you are planning to renovate the exterior of your home completely, you should consider the parts of your home that will not be painted. If you have brick or stone that will be untouched, the exterior color scheme that you choose should incorporate these natural colors. Also, the shingles of your roof may have specks of color in them, so you may want to consider a color that will highlight these subtleties. Consider buying some home improvement or architectural digest types of magazines so you can review photos which often can unleash your inner muse.

Many homeowners choose to reapply the same color exterior paint when the original coating begins to fade. Don’t completely disregard the opportunity to update your home’s style, however. You may want to pick two or three colors for your home–one will serve as the main color and the other two will be used for accents on trim, shutters, doors, a trellis, and other features that add character to your home.

Exterior Painting Ideas Quick Tips

  • Fit in with the neighborhood but stand out through color combinations
  • Don’t just settle on the previously used colors
  • Pick a few color combinations that go well together
  • Play off specks of paint in the roof or in surrounding brick etc.
  • Use high quality paint that has more interesting color choices
  • Buy a few quarts of paint and test patch areas of your house that won’t be seen easily to be sure you like the colors
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Ridge Vent Comparison

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Before installing a ridge vent onto your roof it is important to do your research.  3 things to consider are:

  1. How Well A Ridge Vent Actually Vents
  2. How Weather Resistant is A Ridge Vent
  3. How Durable is Ridge Vent

Shingle Vent II has been tested as being the best investment for improving your home. In comparative tests with Cobra Vent, Roll Vent, Cor-a-Vent, VentSure, Highpoint, and RidgeMaster unbaffled ridge vents, the Shingle-Vent II with its external baffle is consistently proven to be the most reliable ridge vent. The external baffle of the Shingle-Vent II permits air to come out of both sides of the ridge vent, while the unbaffled vents do not. The Shingle-Vent II thus releases more air than unbaffled vents. The Shingle-Vent II harnesses the wind outside to ventilate the attic and pump out air. In test comparisons with the different unbaffled vents, each test demonstrates how the Shingle-Vent II ventilates attic air the most effectively. In addition to being a better ventilation system, the Shingle Vent II also protects your attic from water infiltration. The external baffle of Shingle-Vent II protects your attic from rain that leaks through other ridge vents. In tests comparing VentSure ridge, Roll Vent, and Ridge Master ridge vents with Shingle Vent II, the first three leaked 2-4 gallons of water, while the latter did not permit any water to infiltrate into the attic.

Ventilation efficiency and weather resistance are two extremely important qualities to consider when you are choosing a ridge vent. A more weather resistant and higher quality ventilation system will decrease mold and decrease the chance of any other moisture problems that may damage your house because it decreases the amount of moisture in your attic overall. It will also decrease the heat that gets trapped in your attic. With a lower amount of trapped heat, there is a decreased chance of ice dams because ice won’t freeze, then thaw and build up again. In the summer, decreased heat also means decreased energy bills because your house is easier to cool. These are just a few reasons why it is so important to consider ridge vents with better ventilation and better weather resistance.

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Radiant Barrier for Siding

This video does an excellent job explaining how your home gains and retains heat in the summer and how you lose heat in the winter.  When doing a siding project with United Home Experts we’ll give you unique product options to help minimize heat loss in the winter and heat gain in the summer. For more information about your siding options download a free siding guide here.

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What is the True Cost of an Inferior Heating or Air Conditioning System Installation?

(Or why spending a little more and getting the right job is the true bargain!)

Times are tough right now and sadly, our economy doesn’t show tremendous signs of improvement just yet.

  • So… do we blame people for wanting to get their money’s worth? Absolutely not!
  • Do we think that consumers might make the wrong decisions when gathering prices for larger ticket home improvements? Unfortunately, we do!

Many homeowners feel that

  1. The best price is the cheapest price.
  2. Quality doesn’t count.
  3. Shortcuts are acceptable.
  4. It won’t be their problem, they’re moving anyway!

Often homeowners wait and replace heating systems just prior to listing their home for sale with a realtor because they feel a new furnace or boiler will help seal the deal. And, it very well may…but why a homeowner would want to reap the benefit of comfort and possible lower energy costs is a question for which we’ve yet been able to find an answer.

Here are a few tips we feel are important and should be considered when embarking on a heating system replacement and choosing the right heating contractor:

  • Get references from family, friends and neighbors who have successfully completed the process and ask them ‘If you had to do it over again, would you choose the same heating company?’
    • If the answer is yes, this may well be a good, strong recommendation
  • Ask for licensing information from the contractor…
    • Homeowners are often surprised at this suggestion. They often feel a replacement system wouldn’t merit these requirements as you’re replacing the item with an exact or like model.
      • Aha…all the more reason to choose your contractor wisely. The average homeowner doesn’t know to ask that his or her house be properly sized.
      • Don’t assume the sizing or the existing equipment is correct.  It may be undersized and therefore never heat your home properly or worst yet, oversized so that  your house will never be comfortable and your energy costs will  be exorbitant
  • Make certain your contractor will take out required permits and make provisions for building department and code official inspections
    • Often homeowners are fearful that this process will result in higher real estate taxes, when in actuality it’s for your protection
    • At some point should you sell your home, this lack of permit and inspection will cause trouble that can easily be avoided by doing the right thing
  • Ask for a Certificate of Insurance…
    • Again, adequate coverage is an assumption many homeowners make. Be wise.
  • Don’t be afraid to ask questions…
    • Be sure to share problems or the dissatisfaction that you might have with your existing system. Sharing these details may resolve previous issues and create a more comfortable environment for you and your family
  • Respect the contractors’ time and expertise

Unfortunately real estate experts have created a ‘formula’ to help their potential clients feel at ease in listing or selling their homes. Often they suggest getting multiple estimates and choosing the middle or least costly. When asked why, they are unable to respond. This creates frustration in the marketplace. Your local heating contractor wants to be able to make a presentation to showcase his/her expertise. You wouldn’t choose medical care in such a casual manner, would you?

The old adage, you get what you pay for comes to mind.
Quality work commands a higher associated cost.

Lower quality work often brings forth multiple problems making the lower price an imaginary price.

Problems that rear their heads after a low cost installation has been completed may find your contractor nowhere to be found.

Did you get the “BEST” price?

More importantly, did you get the “RIGHT” installation?

Bonnie Bornstein Fertel is co-owner of Bornstein Sons, Inc., along with her husband, Richard Fertel. Bornstein Sons is a 3rd Generation Family owned and operated business providing Heating, Air Conditioning, Plumbing, Solar and Electrical repair, maintenance and installation services in northern and north central New Jersey.

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How to Create Curb Appeal

Thank you to Anne Marie DiMatteo for contributing this article to our blog! If you live in the Boston area check out Moodscapes LLC at: http://www.moodscapesdesign.com/

A Clemson University study found that landscaping could result in more than a 100% return on investment. The return on investment is contingent upon the quality of the landscape design and installation project and company. It’s important that you find the right landscape designer for your project and use only high-quality materials. One hundred $10 plants purchased at the local hardware store doesn’t have the same value as ten $100 plants purchased by a professional from a local garden nursery.

Whether you are planning on selling your home or just impressing family and friends, curb appeal is their first impression.

3 Important Factors for Enhancing Curb Appeal

1. Pathway- Create an inviting front entrance by choosing colorful and fragrant plants that welcome everyone into the house. An easy to follow path with quality and well maintained brick or stone increases functionality of the front yard. The pathway below was created to navigate guests along a curved walkway to the front porch that was surrounded with fragrant and colorful plants.

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2. Privacy- Plan out the placement of larger trees and shrubs in the front yard in order to get the most shade and privacy from them. Large trees and shrubs can also reduce the noise level from traffic and neighbors. The evergreen border below is an easy to look at natural, sustainable fence.

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3. Paint- A fresh coat of paint on the front door, shutters, and house will always attract more people into a home. If you are trying to sell your house this season, it is especially important to fix all chipping paint (inside and outside) before the house goes on the market.

If you are not looking to hire a professional landscape designer this season, and just want to freshen up your existing landscape we have a few helpful tips. Simple ways to increase curb appeal are through maintenace of garden beds, grass, tres and shrubs.

  • Weeding and mulching existing garden beds as well as keeping grass groomed appropriately is comforting to others, especially neighbors.
  • It is also important to prune and trim all trees and shrubs accordingly for a healthy and sustainable landscape and garden.

If you are considering hiring a professional landscape designer, the first step is to set up a consultation. Meeting with a local professional, will result in optimal usage of your yard, money and time. Make sure to tell the professional about any future plans of selling your home so he or she can choose the best plants and design to optimize your money and increase property value.

To better understand the landscape design process, download our free guide that takes you through all the steps of hiring a professional landscape designer to help you decide if its right for you.

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