Contractor Tips Blog

Sep
6

Does Your Home Need a Makeover?

Your home is your castle and one of the most expensive assets most people own. Keeping it maintained protects its value and your investment. If your home is starting to look rundown, it may be time for a makeover. Not only can a few home improvements make your home look better and maintain its value, it can help make your home more efficient. Here are the top three improvements that should be considered when remodeling your home.

New Roofing

Your home’s roof is vital for protecting your investment from the elements. A leak can cause thousands of dollars in damage. If your roof is beginning to fall apart, it is time to consider replacement. Whether you choose asphalt, cedar shingles or metal, replacing your roof is a wise investment.

Siding

Nothing can make your home look new again like new siding. Vinyl siding is a great option; it is easy to maintain and does not need painting to keep it looking like new. In addition, it can help with insulating your home to help save on energy costs.

Replacing Windows

Not only can replacing windows in your home make it look better, it can save money on your energy bills. Old windows without insulation properties seep air and make it difficult to maintain climate control in the home. Energy efficient windows can drastically impact your heating and cooling cost, usually paying for themselves over a few years.

When doing a makeover on your home, start with the most important aspects that impact the value: roof, siding and windows. Once those are complete, you can tackle aesthetic aspects like landscaping, outdoor living spaces and other features to improve the beauty of your home.

Posted on behalf of:
Atwood Home Builders
227 W 8
th Ave
Homestead, PA 15120
(412) 638-1262

Feb
17

Are Low E Windows Counterproductive in Winter?

Low E windows, E standing for emissivity, are considered the most efficient windows due to their ability to reflect heat. The glass is covered with a thin metallic substance that reflects heat, helping improve the climate control in the home. While this makes sense during a hot summer, does it also work in the winter? The quick answer is yes, but only if you have a contractor that installs them correctly.

It may seem that low E glass would be counterproductive in the winter. If it reflects the sun, it also would reflect the heat that can be gained when trying to warm your home. However, there are different types of low E windows and different options for installation. For those that have cold winters, considering a lower U-factor is also important, which helps keep heat in, on top of low E windows. For installation:

  • Warmer climates. If the goal is to keep heat out, the low E glass should be put on the exterior window to reflect the heat from the sun, helping to keep the home cooler.
  • Colder climates. For colder winters, you want the low E glass to be installed on the interior windows, reflecting heat back inside to lower heating costs.

Low E windows can be beneficial, allowing light in, but reducing lost cool air during the summer and lost warm air during the winter. However, it is just one of several factors to consider when installing new windows. U-factor. SHGC, VT and CR are other considerations when picking your new windows. Talk to your contractor to learn more about what all these options mean and to determine the best windows for your home’s energy efficiency.

Posted on behalf of:
Atwood Home Builders
227 W 8th Ave
Homestead, PA 15120
(412) 638-1262

Nov
29

Does Your Homes Soffit or Fascia Need Repair?

The roof system of your home is more complicated than it might seem. To the novice, it can seem that the two main components are the roof and gutters. While this may be true, there are other elements that play an important role in the function of your roof system. Two of these items are the soffit and fascia that are incorporated into the eaves of your roof.

What Is a Soffit?

The soffit is the surface that is under the eave or overhang on your home’s roof. This small “ceiling” is used to help keep moisture away from the home and can be part of the ventilation of your attic. Many soffits contain ventilation holes that allow moisture to escape that can cause mold or damage inside the home.

What Is Fascia?

The boards that edge the roof facing out are fascia. These can connect to the soffit, rafters and trusses in your roof and protect the roof’s edge from exposure. They are also important for the aesthetic appeal of your home, giving the roof outline a smooth, even exterior.

Both the soffit and fascia play important roles in protecting your roof and home from moisture and the elements. Because they are the first line of defense, they can also become damaged or rotted. Damage to your soffit can entice insects and rodents into your attic and home; fascia boards that are damaged can lead to expensive roof rot.

If you notice that the soffit or fascia on your home looks damaged, have it repaired immediately. These small elements are essential to protect your roof and home from expensive damage from moisture and pest invasion.

Posted on behalf of:
Atwood Home Builders
227 W 8th Ave
Homestead, PA 15120
(412) 638-1262

Oct
4

5 Benefits to Updating the Windows in Your Home

When considering investing in home improvements, you want to put money into areas that will give you the most benefits. If you have older windows, updating them to newer models can have more value than you might realize. Here are five benefits of updating your old windows for your next home improvement project.

  1. Energy saving. Let’s start with how new windows can save you money. Did you know upgrading to energy efficient windows can save up to $500 a year in energy costs? In just a few years they can pay for themselves with their insulating properties. Plus, energy efficient windows add to the value of your home.
  2. Curb appeal. There are many beautiful design options in the window industry. You may be surprised how new windows can enhance your home’s curb appeal.
  3. Not only does poor insulation in your windows affect your energy costs, it also changes your comfort level. Drafts can be eliminated with the addition of new windows in your home.
  4. Old windows can stick or have issues opening. Get back full function with new windows that work as they should.
  5. Humidity issues. Do you see condensation on your old windows? That excess water can lead to humidity issues in your home. High humidity can lead to mold problems, an expensive and dangerous issue to have in your home.

New windows are a safe and wise investment into your home. Talk to your local home contractor that offers window replacement. Make sure to ask about energy efficient options that will save you money and add to the value of your home.

Posted on behalf of:
Atwood Home Builders
227 W 8th Ave
Homestead, PA 15120
(412) 638-1262

Dec
30

Selling Your Home? Increase the Value with New Vinyl Siding

If you are planning to sell your home, you want to get the best price. However, if your home is older and has old siding or needs paint, it can hurt your chances of getting the price you want for your home. Curb appeal is extremely important when selling a home; when a buyer pulls up to tour your home, you want them immediately fall in love with the house. But old siding or peeling paint can detract from all the other benefits your home may have to offer. New vinyl siding can make your old home look new again and has many other selling points that buyers will love, including:

  • Low maintenance. Most people like the idea of owning their own home, but do not care for all the upkeep, maintenance and expense that comes with it. Vinyl siding is great for homeowners that want a low maintenance home that won’t need new paint every few years.
  • Energy efficient. Everyone wants to save money off their energy bills. Vinyl siding helps insulate the home, keeping the cold air in during the summer and the cold air out during the winter.
  • Vinyl siding looks great and can last for decades. Nothing can change the look of your home more completely than adding new siding.

Increase the value and desirability of your home before you put in on the market by investing in new vinyl siding. By improving the beauty and efficiency of your home, you can get the most value and possibly sell it quicker than you had hoped. Talk to your local contractor to find out if vinyl siding is the right option to increase the value of your home.

Posted on behalf of:
Atwood Home Builders
227 W 8th Ave
Homestead, PA 15120
(412) 638-1262

Sep
9

Choosing Your New Roof

Putting a new roof on your home is a large expense but necessary to protect your investment. While many people look for the most economical option, it is important to consider how long the roof will last and the value it can add to your home. There can be thousands of dollars in difference between the different roof options available, but there is also a difference in quality. Here are some of the most common roof types and their benefits and drawbacks.

  • Metal roofing. Steel and aluminum roofing are popular for their longevity. They can be affordable and now come in more aesthetic options. However, aluminum does not resist dents and damage from weather issues such as hail as well as steel metal roofs.
  • Asphalt shingles. One of the most common roof materials is asphalt shingles, with an estimated 75% of homes in the U.S. using this material. This is an economical option, although the lifespan on lower grades may be less than other materials.
  • Wood. Shakes and shingles made from wood last longer than most asphalt shingles, but usually are more expensive.
  • Slate, clay or cement tiles. While more expensive, slate, clay or cement tiles can add a unique and beautiful accent to a home while offering a long lifespan.

Just as important as the roofing material you choose is the contractor. You want a reliable contractor that has an established reputation in your area for quality work. Since this is a large expense that only should need to be done once every few decades, it is worth the extra effort to find the right material and contractor to ensure the roof you add will last and add value to your home.

Posted on behalf of:
Atwood Home Builders
227 W 8th Ave
Homestead, PA 15120
(412) 638-1262

Jun
23

Getting a Tax Refund? Invest in New Windows for Your Home

Tax refund time is a great opportunity to put money back into your largest investment – your home. If you are like most people, your home is the biggest asset you own and should be a top priority when it comes to maintenance. Whether you plan to live in your home for decades to come or are expecting to sell in a few years, you want to maintain and add to the value. Replacing old windows with the help of your tax refund is a great way to improve your home and bolster this important investment.

Benefits of New Windows

If you have older windows in your home, there are many benefits to replacing them with beautiful, efficient windows. Not only can new windows enhance the curb appeal of your home, they can increase the energy efficiency, saving you money off your energy costs. This improvement can also add value to your home as energy efficiency is a top priority amongst home buyers.

When choosing new windows for your home, you want to ensure that they are rated for energy efficiency and are installed by a qualified contractor. Some specifications to shop for include:

  • Double-paned windows for highest efficiency
  • Low-Emissive glass (Low-E)
  • Argonne filled
  • Energy Star qualified

Make your tax refund go farther this year by investing those dollars back into your home with new, energy-efficient windows. Talk to your local home contractor that offers Energy Star window installation and has a stellar reputation for their quality workmanship. New windows can pay for themselves with lower heating and cooling costs, as well as the value they add to your home.

Posted on behalf of:
Atwood Home Builders
227 W 8th Ave
Homestead, PA 15120
(412) 638-1262

Apr
10

High Return on Investment Home Improvements

When it comes to improving your home, not all projects add value to your property. While you may want to add a new hot tub, if you sell your home in a year or two, that expense will not necessarily add value to your home’s value. For anyone planning on selling their home in the near future, return on investment in terms of home value should be considered on any home improvement project. Here are a few improvements that can add value to your home, making them worth the investment.

New Windows

If you have older windows that are poorly insulated, new windows can make a big difference in your home’s energy efficiency. Double-paned windows reduce heating and cooling costs, saving you and future owners of your home money every month. New windows can also improve the beauty of your home. 

Vinyl Siding

If you have old siding or shingles, vinyl siding is a valuable addition to your home. Homebuyers are interested in homes with vinyl siding due to the low maintenance and durability of this material over other options, plus it improves your home’s curb appeal.

New Roof

If your roof needs to be replaced, it should be on the top of your home improvement list, especially if you plan to sell your home. A new roof can make your home more desirable since it is a large expense and inconvenience that new homebuyers will not want to add to the cost of the home.

When it comes to investing money into a home you will be selling in the near future, be smart with the projects you choose to get the biggest return on your money. Focus on improvements that offer energy or structural benefits versus luxury for your best return.

Posted on behalf of:
Atwood Home Builders
227 W 8th Ave
Homestead, PA 15120
(412) 638-1262

Jan
6

Residential Tax Credit

Did you know you could get a tax credit just for updating your home’s windows or roof? The IRS offers a substantial tax credit when you make your home more energy efficient by improving the insulation of your home. With the end of 2015 drawing near, now is the time to get the new windows, insulation or roof you need and qualify to write part of the cost off as a tax credit on your 2015 tax return.

How the Tax Credit Works

The IRS will allow a tax credit for up to 10% of the purchase price of home improvement products that can decrease your energy use. This includes exterior doors, windows, roofing, insulation and even some furnace purchases. The products must be part of the pre-approved list of energy efficient options, often have the Energy Star rating. There are limits on the total amount of credit you can use, regardless of the total cost of your products.

To find out what products are covered, you can look up the list of covered products and how much you can use as a tax credit on the IRS website at www.irs.gov under individual tax credits for homeowners. The credit is only for the product costs, not to be used against the cost of installation.

Now is the time to upgrade your windows and roof to a more efficient option. You could save hundreds of dollars every year off your energy costs, plus get a tax credit you can use right away on your 2015 federal tax return. Some states also offer an energy credits toward their state tax returns. To learn more, talk to your tax professional and call a local contractor that installs energy efficient roofing and windows today!

Posted on behalf of:
Atwood Home Builders
227 W 8th Ave
Homestead, PA 15120
(412) 638-1262

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