What winter upgrades do you need for your home?

This is no time to neglect your home, regardless of where you live. At this time of year, many homeowners – especially in colder regions – neglect the condition of their homes in anticipation of warmer weather. Even in warmer regions – where weather can be unpredictable – this is the time of year when home improvements take the back burner. Let’s take a look at some areas of your home that can benefit from your attention right now.

Doors/Windows. Perhaps you did all the right things before the colder weather set in…you checked for drafts, replaced weather stripping…maybe even replaced some of your doors and windows. Now is the time to determine if the improvements you made were effective. If you are still experiencing some drafty conditions, it’s time to call your local contractor in to perform an inspection and schedule the required work to fix the condition as soon as weather permits.

Roofing/Gutters. Again, you may have performed the necessary inspections/improvements to your roofing prior to the onset of winter, but are now finding that it’s not enough. Now is the time to inspect your roofing and gutters, or better still, call a professional to discuss any ice dams or icicles that may cause serious damage to your roof. In warmer climates, this is the time of year to address any gutters that may be sagging as a result of too much rain and debris.

Landscaping. Regardless of where you may live, there is no better time than now to consider your outdoor landscaping. Even if it’s currently covered in snow, by calling a landscape professional now, you’ll avoid being wait-listed when everyone else in your neighborhood decides to act. The process for designing and constructing your perfect paradise can – and should – take months, so even in warmer climates, why not start planning now, before everyone else does?

Remodeling. For many homeowners, holidays reveal that they simply don’t have enough room in their current home or that their existing space could use some remodeling. With proper planning by a remodeling professional, you’ll be ready the next time guests emerge on your home for any reason.

Siding/Fencing/Decks. This time of year also has a way of revealing imperfections or problems with your siding/fencing and/or deck. It may be time to upgrade to a newer vinyl or other available material for maximum durability and beauty.

After the holidays are over is the perfect time to start planning those home improvement projects you’ve been putting off for far too long. Get a jump on your neighbors who will all be envious of how great your home looks when spring and summer roll around. You’ll leave them all scratching their heads saying “why didn’t I think of that?”

Here are some indications:
There are damaged sections that need repair.

Existing siding requires excessive maintenance.

Your home needs additional insulation (certain rooms in your home are too warm or too cold or you have areas of blistering wallpaper or peeling paint). New siding can increase the insulating ability, or R-value, of your home.

Existing siding has dry rot, insect damage, staining, shows uneven weathering, buckling, or decay.

If you decide to replace your home’s exterior, there are a number of things to consider. What look do you want? Do you want your home to stand out or blend in? What’s your budget? How long will you live in your home? What type of climate do you live in? Here’s an overview of the most popular choices:

Vinyl
Vinyl siding is manufactured in a variety of styles and colors and never requires painting. Vinyl is an economical choice with low maintenance and a long life. Vinyl resists insects and doesn’t fade, crack, chip, blister, or flake. Vinyl, by itself, is not a good insulator, so it must be installed over insulating material or look for insulated vinyl siding products.

Wood
Solid wood siding remains popular although it’s a more expensive option. Wood requires ongoing maintenance—sealing, staining, and repainting to prevent water damage, sun damage, and rot. Engineered wood products offer a similar look at a lower cost and with less maintenance. Plus, engineered wood products can be cut and installed quicker and cheaper than wood and can be treated to resist mildew and deterioration.

Fiber-cement
Made of cement, ground sand, and wood fibers, fiber-cement siding provides the look and feel of wood at a much lower cost.
Fiber-cement siding is durable and requires less maintenance. It’s fire and insect proof and doesn’t warp. Fiber-cement resists heat and cold well, so it’s energy efficient.

Stucco
Stucco is a good choice for Spanish, Italian, or Mission-style homes. Stucco is durable and provides good insulation but can crack from poor workmanship or weather. Cracks must be patched to prevent water damage, and the surface requires routine painting. Stucco is normally more expensive to install.

Masonry
Masonry siding using real or manufactured brick or stone is the most expensive option. The look of brick or stone can be replicated with some newer products, or brick or stone siding can be used as an accent to emphasize an architectural feature.

Your home improvement professional can help you determine what’s right for you. Properly installed siding can add insulation, protection from the elements, style, and value to your home.

However, if you are like most, and you’re only upgrading a bathroom, kitchen, or other project that requires only a skilled contractor, then you and your contractor will be responsible for the environmental and energy-saving considerations. We have a few tips that may be helpful.

In this section we’ll discuss structural wood panels, insulation, doors and windows, passive solar, lighting, roofing, exterior finishes, water-saving fixtures, energy-saving appliances, heating and cooling, and other topics related to “green building.” Unfortunately, we’ll only hit the high spots. An in-depth discussion is a book within itself, and there are some good books that you can find at your local library that will provide you with specific and detailed information on most any topic related to “green” living.

Structural insulated panels – Replaces traditional wall framing, reducing wood consumption and is more energy efficient than traditional framing. Structural panels are both strong and more resistant to air infiltration than are walls built with standard 2 x 4 studs, have higher “R” ratings, and more resistant to outside noise.

Insulation – Many new types of insulation offer advantages over the conventional materials used just a few years ago, and new materials are being introduced every year. Some of the new products are more environmentally friendly and less toxic than those with which you may be familiar. Icynene, the only spray-foam insulation certified by the Envirodesic air quality improvement certification program, is a great insulation and also reduces sound transmission. The advantages of some of the new materials are: less susceptibility to settling, higher “R” value, fire resistance, elimination of infiltration, and reduction of convective heat loss. Check with your contractor to see what is available in your area.

Doors and windows – Replacement doors and windows are available that can dramatically reduce both infiltration and passive energy loss. In many cases doors and windows can be replaced without replacing the existing frame, thus reducing installation costs. Check with your contractor.

Roofing – A new breed of roofing materials are more durable, long-lasting, and energy efficient, and some are even made from recycled materials. If you are planning to use asphalt shingles, a common choice in most regions, look for shingles made from recycled content. There are also fiber cement shingles, those made from plastic or rubber, and roofing made from various metals such as aluminum. If you are planning a new roof, you should also consider installing a radiant barrier on the underside of your roof. This will dramatically reduce attic heat and infiltration into the living space below.

Passive solar – Often overlooked, taking advantage of passive solar can add to both comfort and energy savings. Discuss orientation, window placement, and wall and floor materials with your architect or builder to reap the free benefits of the sun’s energy.

Exterior materials – The choice of exterior finish materials is much more than just appearance; certain materials are more energy efficient, environmentally friendly, and aesthetically pleasing. Your contractor and local building supply house can show you a number of options including fiber cement, artificial stone, natural cedar, recycled plastic, locally produced brick, or natural stucco.

Lighting – The first step in creating energy efficient lighting is to take advantage of the available natural light, to use windows and light tubes or channels to allow the sun’s light in. Be cautious when using traditional skylights, however, as they often are energy wasters; and improper installation can result in leaking which may be difficult to resolve. In warmer regions, skylights can also generate too much heat in the living space. Also, try to use as many fixtures as possible that will accept LEDs or compact fluorescent light bulbs. When using recessed fixtures make certain they are “IC” rated, which means they can be covered with insulation, reducing infiltration.

Flooring – There are many new flooring materials that are environmentally friendly, attractive, and less expensive than some of the more traditional materials. Flooring such as bamboo, which is actually a grass, is both renewable and beautiful. Harder than traditional oak flooring, prefinished bamboo is durable and comes in a variety of shades. For those who choose carpet, there are several options made from recycled material that offer the look and feel of traditional carpet. Other options are cork, recycled content tile, and natural linoleum. A good flooring contractor can discuss your flooring options.

High-efficiency plumbing fixtures – Sometimes referred to as “low-flow,” the new breed of plumbing fixtures are hardly that. Technological advances incorporate air to boost the flow of water, allowing faucets, shower heads, and toilets to function with more force than their water-wasting cousins. Specify products that carry the WaterSense certification, a designation of the EPA. Such fixtures will save you both water and money.

EnergyStar® appliances – When replacing appliances or mechanical equipment, look for those with the EnergyStar® logo. You’ll be helping the environment and your energy budget.

Plastic Plumbing Pipe – New innovations in plastic plumbing pipe can save both money and help protect the environment and may be superior to their more expensive, resource depleting counterparts. Long the standard for water supply, the cost of copper pipe has encouraged manufacturers to develop less expensive alternatives, such as Pex; and some of the new materials offer advantages in addition to cost. Check with your plumber and get a recommendation for your project.

WINDOWS
Installing a skylight or sun tunnel is an energy-efficient way to add extra light and a dramatic effect to your home. A professional installer can help you take advantage of the natural beauty and energy savings in almost any room in your home, including bathrooms, hallways, or even walk-in closets.

Lifetime vinyl replacement windows have an easy-to-clean design and are both durable and efficient. These windows have been tested to withstand whatever the weather may bring. By meeting the Energy Star™ standards, these windows provide maximum efficiency and can help you save money on energy bills.

SIDING
The exterior of your home is the shield that protects your family and the contents of your home from severe storms and seasonal weather patterns. That is why it is important to use only quality siding with highly trained and experienced technicians.

Low maintenance vinyl siding provides superior protection, is highly durable, and energy efficient. Vinyl is available in many different profiles and colors. Combined with vinyl soffitt, wrapped trim, and facia boards will eliminate any future painting costs.

ROOFING
GAF 5-Part Weather Stopper Roofing System is highly recommended when replacing your roof. This process has proven to be the best protection against the elements, and offers the highest quality installation. Below list some of the features of this system.

1. Leak Barrier. Using a special material designed specifically for use around eaves, rakes, valleys, chimneys, skylights, and surrounding all roof penetrations gives your roof added stability and protection.

2. Roof Deck Protection. A synthetic underlayment lays flat with less wrinkles, helps protect against leaks, and allows attic moisture to breath through it.

3. Quality Shingles. Shingles of all types are offered to compliment your home and fit your budget.

4. Effective Attic Ventilation. Insures proper air circulation to prevent condensation, mold, and deterioration of roof sheathing.

5. Hip or Ridge Cap. Gives your shingled roof the finishing touch.