Spotless & Seamless Exteriors Blog

How Long Does Steel Siding Last?

When choosing a type of siding, many homeowners choose aesthetics over durability, leaving their home vulnerable to future repairs. Many are unaware of the residential siding that is durable, long-lasting, eco-friendly, and high-quality. Residential steel siding checks each of these marks, while still being aesthetically pleasing. Continue reading the blog to learn about the durability and longevity of steel siding.

Steel Siding Durability

When it comes to durability, steel comes in first place. Our high-quality, thick steel siding comes from heavy gauge steel. This type of material stands against hail and extreme storms far better than its competitors. Steel siding is less likely to dent, bend, and scratch.

When selecting steel siding, it’s important to remember that all steel siding brands do not produce the same quality of material. As you discuss the options and different brands, question the finish on the product. Steel siding isn’t as durable as it could be if it is lacking a quality finish and paint combination, such as Klauer’s proprietary texture finish and CoolPaint Technology™. A combination of this finish and paint will reflect the pigments in the paint to increase the energy efficiency of your home and protect it from years of wear.

Steel Siding Longevity

Steel siding has the ability to last up to 50 years or more with proper maintenance and care. Although this material requires less maintenance than its competitors, it’s still important to occasionally check for potential damage.

If you recently had severe weather in your area, now is the time to examine the exterior of your home. Any panels that become damaged to the point of bare steel exposure, should be immediately replaced to prevent further damage. If the panel itself can be salvaged, you may just need a new coat of paint and primer.

The professionals at Spotless & Seamless care about the investment you have made in our steel siding. As added protection, your steel siding comes with a lifetime warranty by Klauer that covers normal weather wear and tear such as cracks, blisters, and flaking, as well as hail protection.

If you’re looking to upgrade your siding, contact Spotless & Seamless, today. As the top Twin Cities contractor, we promise to provide professional and efficient services no matter the project. Contact us today for a free estimate!


The History of Residential Siding

Many homeowners look for a siding material that’s durable, accessible, and requires no maintenance. When we dive into the history of residential siding, we see how far our options have come. From handmade bricks to flimsy aluminum, siding has certainly transformed from a simpler time. Continue reading our blog and check out the history of residential siding and which options are best.

The Beginning of Stone and Wood Exteriors

Modern stone siding began to make its appearance in the late 1800s. As this trend caught on, it paved a path towards technological advances and the utilization of thin stone veneer. This trend took hold of the period because of its durability and accessibility.

About 100 years later, wood exteriors became popular in the early 1900s. Although wood has been used for hundreds of years with early settlers, builders turned towards wood exteriors again because of the availability of trees near the building location.

Stone and Wood Exteriors Today

Stone and wood exteriors are not as popular today because of the maintenance and regulations surrounding these materials. Homeowners tend to run into issues with building codes because of the stone weight and thickness. Wood also comes with issues such as pests, cracks in the material, and being targeted by woodpeckers.

The Beginning of Vinyl and Aluminum Exteriors

By the end of World War II, aluminum had become a popular residential exterior option because of the affordable pricing. Although this wasn’t a durable choice, many flocked towards this option because of the cost.

Following aluminum siding, came the vinyl craze. As the price of wood went up, homeowners grew tired of the high cost, continuous maintenance, and pest control requirements. Quickly, vinyl siding replaced both wood and aluminum exteriors.

Vinyl and Aluminum Exteriors Today

Vinyl and aluminum siding are still common choices today, but come with a few cons. Aluminum siding tends to dent and scratch easily, fade over time, and create annoying sounds. As the hot sun beats down on aluminum siding, you may hear a “pinging” sound as the metal expands.

Vinyl siding may be a popular and cost-effective siding choice, but it also may bring issues down the road. Vinyl siding is known to dent easily, fade in the sun, and cause issues when repairing. Many times, whole planks need to be replaced. Vinyl siding is also not recommended if you plan to sell your home, as it lowers the home’s value.

The Beginning of Seamless Steel Exteriors

Steel siding became commercially available in the 1940s. At first, homeowners were unimpressed by the metallic roof-like appearance, but as design and aesthetic became important to clients, manufacturers got to work on improvements. Soon, manufacturers began incorporating an embossed coating on the metal to vary the colors and designs available.

Seamless Steel Exteriors Today

Steel siding is a great low-maintenance siding choice. Our steel panels are cut to the exact length of the building, eliminating any seams. Removing seams from the outside of your building lowers energy bills, protects against moisture, and requires little to no maintenance. Steel siding is the most durable material option out on the market today and comes in many styles and sizes. While the upfront cost is higher, it’s a great investment. Steel siding can last for more than 50 years if it is taken care of.

If you are ready to upgrade your home to seamless siding, rest easy knowing we are your top Twin Cities contractor for home exteriors needs. Contact us today for a free estimate!


Choosing the Right Contractor

Updating your home is an exciting decision, as well as an expensive one. When the details of your updates have been finalized, it’s important to know the work is being done by a trusted professional. Many don’t know where to start when looking for a contractor, especially one you know will be qualified and efficient. Read our blog to learn how to find the right home exterior contractor for you.

Do Your Homework

Residing your home is no small feat. To narrow down the contractor search, it’s important to ask the right questions to ensure quality work by trusted professionals.

  • Where are you located? Ideally, you want to find a contractor that has an office nearby. Should any issues arise, your trusted professional is a quick phone call away.
  • How long has your company been in business? Choosing an already established company will ensure quality work. This is a great time to ask to see photos of past siding jobs and assess online reviews.
  • What is your workmanship warranty? Roofing contractors will typically offer their own warranty on workmanship. Most workmanship warranties offered by roofing contractors last at least one year. Protect your assets with a workmanship warranty.

GAF (General Aniline & Film) Certified

At Spotless & Seamless we are proud to be GAF-certified contractors. When you choose a GAF factory-certified roofing contractor, you’ll be working with the best in the business. Only 2% of roofing contractors in North America are GAF Master Elite®, a certification we renew each year. In addition, every GAF-certified contractor offers exceptional protection with the GAF Lifetime Roofing System. When you choose to work with Spotless & Seamless, the value added to your home will be done by only the most knowledgeable and professional contractors in the area.

If you’re looking for qualified help to reside your home, call on Spotless & Seamless. We are your top Twin Cities contractor for home exteriors needs. Contact us today for a free estimate!


The Key to Instant ROI: Seamless Steel Siding

A first impression is telling, even for your home! Make sure you nail your home’s first impression with Spotless & Seamless steel siding. Despite popular belief, steel siding is not only for industrial buildings. With a variety of textures and colors available, you can customize the seamless siding to your taste while protecting your home from the severe elements.

DOES STEEL SIDING INCREASE THE VALUE OF YOUR HOME?

Yes! When it comes time to reside your home, look at it as an investment. Steel siding may cost more upfront, but with seamless siding, your home will be protected against moisture and chances of rot, saving you money down the road! Vinyl siding is also susceptible to damage from high winds and hail, while seamless steel siding can withstand severe weather while still maintaining its color and integrity. When you invest in our siding, less maintenance will follow along with a very high return on investment (ROI) once your home is sold. Steel siding has one of the highest ROI averaging 86% across the US. Northern parts of the country have even a higher average of around 95%. 

IMMEDIATE BENEFITS OF STEEL SIDING

Steel siding guarantees value to your home when it is time to sell but installing steel siding also has a list of direct benefits!

  • Minimal Maintenance: Steel siding does not require extensive upkeep or expensive cleaning services to stay in great shape. You can simply rely on your garden hose to spray it down when it is looking dirty.
  • High Durability: Severe elements will not alter steel like it will with other siding materials. Steel can withstand sharp temperature changes, high winds, and hail. Steel siding’s durability outshines all competitors and will keep your home looking great for years to come.
  • Eco-Friendly: Steel is the most recycled material on the planet. When steel siding is paired with insulation, it can be a great way to lower a homeowner’s energy costs over time.

If you are ready to upgrade your home to seamless siding, rest easy knowing we are your top Twin Cities contractor for home exteriors needs. Contact us today for a free estimate!


Misconceptions About Steel Siding

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Whether you’re building a new house or looking to make updates as a part of a renovation, one of the big choices you’ll face: Your home’s exterior. Steel siding has been a building staple for more than a hundred years. That type of history brings with it innovations and improvements, but it can also mean common misconceptions. We’ve put together some of the major steel siding misconceptions so you can make an informed decision for your home’s exterior.

Myth: Steel siding is high-maintenance, low durability.

Steel siding is not only resistant to rust, fading, and chalking, it’s also termite and fire resistant and can withstand high impact and hail damage. Because of its construction, steel provides protection from the elements by standing up against warping, rot, and moisture. Seamless steel siding also seals the home off from the elements to better protect your home’s framework.

Bonus? Steel is easy to clean. A quick rinse with a garden hose is all it takes.

Myth: Other materials are better for the environment.

For homeowners looking to make an eco-conscious choice, steel fits right in. As the most recycled material in the U.S., it’s an environmentally friendly exterior option. Our Platinum Seamless Siding takes that a step further, using an exclusive hybrid paint finish technology complete with infrared reflective pigments to help improve your home’s energy efficiency.

Myth: Steel siding is flat and boring.

Steel siding comes in a variety of profiles and colors, with endless design options. In fact, with today’s manufacturing, steel can look just like wood, without the upkeep and deterioration. There are even steel siding options that provide a log cabin feel. You can also get a range of decorative options for window cladding, door headers, gable accents, shutters, and more.

Choosing Seamless Steel Siding

If you’re ready to make the move to seamless steal siding, Spotless & Seamless is your top Twin Cities contractor for your home exteriors needs.

The experienced professionals at Spotless & Seamless are always here to offer solutions to liven up your home’s exterior, from seamless siding to roofing to windows & doors and more. Contact us today with questions or for a free estimate.


Impressive Ideas for Entryway Embellishments

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As your home’s point of entry, the doorway is often the centerpiece and makes that important first impression. Why not give your entrance a little extra attention to help it really make a statement this season? These impressive ideas for entryway embellishments can get you started.

Welcome

A doormat is the most common decorative element a homeowner adds to an entryway. Consider sprucing up your stoop by going one step further.

  • Personalize. Help identify your home and space with a personalized doormat. This can include the family name or even just an initial. Do something to make it your own.
  • Layers. Get crafty with your doormat and go for the layered look. Place a decorative outdoor rug underneath your mat for an even more eye-catching look.
  • Make them laugh. Show off your sense of humor with a whimsical or playful mat. Get a smile from family and friends before welcoming them into your home.

If a doormat isn’t your style, perhaps a hand-painted or specially designed welcome sign can greet your guests. Tall and commanding or wide and impressive, the concept is really up to you.

By the Numbers

For a fresh style, add an ornamental address plate to the empty space above or alongside the doorway. This can help visitors more easily identify your home and provide visual balance to your entryway.

You can also hang large, separate numbers on or alongside the door. Go for a classic look or something bold and artistic. Just be sure the size of the numbers works well for your home.

Floral Accents

Liven up your entryway with greenery or flowers. If you have the space, try adding a potted plant on either side of the door. These can act as little green columns and make for a lively, grand entrance.

Or add a pop of color and beauty with a hanging flower basket. Change out the flowers as often as you like or consider using fake flowers and avoid the worry of watering.

Décor

With some dramatic and artsy décor, your front door can welcome your guests in style without saying a word.

  • Seasonal splashes. Door decorations aren’t only for late-year holidays. Get fun and creative all year round and celebrate summer holidays, birthdays, special occasions, or even “just because.” Dress up your doorway however you like and whenever the mood strikes.
  • Accessorize with a door knocker. This can be as ornate or as simple as you like. Maybe try something bold and striking, simple and modern, or designed with an animal face. A unique door knocker can add elegance, sophistication, and practicality.
  • Handle with flair. Upgrade door handles or the doorknob to transform the door and add some character or a bit of style.

Lights

You probably have some sort of lighting around the front door. Whether that’s a fixture on either side or one hanging directly above, we have fun ideas to enhance the lighted look.

Decorative sconces come in varying shapes and styles. Find a trend that suits your home and your taste, whether it’s a farmhouse lantern, contemporary cylinder, steampunk design, or romantic Victorian.

Or change the entire look of your entryway with a pendant light. This is a single-bulb fixture suspended from a chain, cord, or metal rod.

Add a Door

A storm or screen door can add style and functionality to your entryway. Accents and vibrant colors can help draw attention. And you can open the front door on nice days to let in some natural light and fresh air.

If you notice the front door is tattered, damaged, or letting in too much outdoor air, maybe it’s time for an upgrade altogether. A new door can increase curb appeal while adding beauty and function to your home. Ask your Twin Cities home exteriors experts about the benefits of a front door upgrade.

Get your home ready to welcome visitors this spring with these impressive ideas for entryway embellishments. The experienced professionals at Spotless & Seamless are always here to offer solutions to liven up your home’s exterior, from seamless siding to roofing to windows & doors and more. Contact us today with questions or for a free estimate.


Enhance Your Home with Bay Windows

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Thinking about adding a little something extra to your living space but unsure where to start? Take a look at and out your windows. Maybe you want to increase luminosity, capacity, or versatility. Keep reading to learn a few ways you can enhance your home with bay windows.

What Makes a Bay Window?

First off, what is a bay window and is it different from a bow window? We’ll discuss bow windows in our next blog, but for now, let’s talk about bay windows.

Bay windows jut out from your home and usually have three sides set at varying angles. Most bay windows are shaped like isosceles trapezoids, with the smaller side windows – called flankers – set at similar angles and the larger picture window parallel to the home.

More Light

By way of its unique design, a bay window can help add an abundance of natural light to any room. This is essentially a large wall of windows facing slightly different angles, so it easily increases the amount of sunlight coming in throughout the day in any direction.

The additional light can help cut down on energy expenses and improve your mood. You may find you’re using in-home lamps less and saving electricity. Furthermore, the extra daylight aids in the brain’s regulation of serotonin, which helps you feel calm and more focused.

Extra Space

Because bay windows protrude out from your home, the overall space inside seems larger while the actual space increases only slightly. The glass panes provide an unrestricted feel and expansive views that open up the room.

Additionally, the extra space adjacent to the window is often used for seating, storage, a cozy reading alcove, or a place to nurture houseplants. Combine seating and storage with a flip-top bench and really take advantage of that added area.

Value and Versatility

Adding a bay window adds a classic look to your home’s exterior and often increases its overall value.

Large walls are optimal spaces to install these features, and they complement any room in the home. Brighten up your living room or home office. Get better outdoor views from the kitchen. Add a reading cubby to any or every bedroom.

Whether you want to add light, space, value, versatility, or altogether fun, Spotless & Seamless can help you enhance your home with bay windows. Consult with our Twin Cities home exteriors professionals to select a personalized look for your space that fits your needs and budget. Contact us today with questions or to get started on your home’s new look.


Consider Steel Siding When Updating Your Home’s Look

Consider-Steel-Siding-When-Updating-Your-Homes-Look

When it comes to protecting your home, you want to avoid cutting corners to save headaches down the road. This is especially true when upgrading windows, doors, or siding. With the best safeguards in place outside, you and your family can rest easy inside. If you’re thinking of updating your home’s overall look, we can provide many reasons why you should consider steel siding.

Reliable

One of the biggest benefits to steel siding is its all-around reliability.

Steel siding is designed to withstand all of Mother Nature’s elements, from the harshest winter’s cold and snow to the most intense summer heat and sun. And Minnesota’s weather forecast often runs the gamut, so take comfort in knowing this maintenance-free product won’t blister, crack, or warp.

Your home is also safeguarded against moisture damage. United States Seamless® Steel Siding is resistant to water penetration and contains no joints or entry points for rain or melting snow.

Durable and Safe

Tired of painting every few years? When you consider steel siding maintains its sturdy condition no matter the elements, you realize another advantage. This durable material is resistant to fading and chipping, so there’s no need to touch up or repaint anything.

Additionally, steel siding can last up to 50 years when properly installed. That’s a long time to not have to worry about your home’s exterior.

Steel siding also has a high rating with regard to fire safety. This can help give you peace of mind when it comes to protecting your family.

Endless Possibilities

Steel siding offers a host of aesthetic possibilities. Whether you want a modern finish or a classic look, you have endless options for texture, style, color, and design. Choose an authentic woodgrain pattern or something with a shiny finish. Select a sophisticated earth tone or a bright color with dynamic energy.

Increase your home’s curb appeal by adding artistic flair with accent siding or decorative shutters.

Enhancing your home’s exterior can provide a fresh look and long-lasting, valuable conveniences. Ask one of the experienced professionals at Spotless & Seamless about why you should consider steel siding for your home. We can answer any questions and help further explain the proven performance of steel siding. Contact us today.


Siding: 3 reasons to choose seamless

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Your home is an investment. When building or making upgrades, you want to consider the best quality materials to assure the best possible result inside and out. Keep reading to learn about protecting your home’s exterior and three reasons to choose seamless when weighing your siding options.

What is seamless?

Seamless siding is specifically cut to the precise measurements of your home, so each panel is one continuous, seamless piece. This attractive option is one of the best siding choices – especially if it’s steel – for many reasons, including its performance and simplicity.

Durable and efficient

Minnesota climates can be extreme, but seamless steel siding is durable enough to hold up against the drastic fluctuations between hot and cold. In addition, this exterior covering is impervious to fading or chalking and resistant to pests, such as ants and termites.

Because it’s seamless, this multi-layered system helps prevents moisture from getting into your home and wreaking havoc on your indoor air quality or causing rot or structural damage. What’s more, the siding keeps drafts out, so your inside air stays comfortably cool in the summer and toasty warm in the winter. This will help save on energy costs as well.

Easy to maintain

Caring for your seamless steel siding is about as uncomplicated as it gets, because this product is virtually maintenance free. If the siding gets dirty, simply rinse it with a garden hose. Yes, it’s that easy.

And forget about putting on a new coat of paint. You won’t have to prime, stain, or seal anything – ever – because its fresh look will last for decades to come.

So many colors and styles

United States Seamless® Steel Siding comes in a variety of colors and finishes to match your personality, preference, or taste. Color options range from subtle earth tones to rich, dynamic hues. Also, select a basic finish or one that’s textured or woodgrain.

Small touches like vertical accents or a peak herringbone design can add dramatic flair to your home’s exterior and increase curb appeal.

The Twin Cities home exteriors professionals at Spotless & Seamless Siding have the answers to your questions when it comes to seamless siding. Still wondering whether to choose seamless? Contact our experts to learn more or to schedule a free estimate.


Hinge-Style Windows: Open the Possibilities

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Summer is an ideal time for home renovation projects, and maybe a window upgrade is on your to-do list. Two common types have similar hinge-style openings and offer many of the same benefits. Keep reading to find out more about casement and awning windows and how these modern modifications can open the possibilities of function and style.

Casement Windows

Homeowners often install casement windows in main living spaces, such as the family room, kitchen, and dining room. They are ideal for areas in which the window opening is taller than it is wide. Casement windows have hinges on either the left or right side and open with the use of a crank.

Advantages to installing casement windows include:

  • Ventilation. Sliding windows open halfway vertically or horizontally, but casement windows open completely to allow for greater ventilation throughout your home.
  • Efficiency. These windows have an air-tight seal. When closed they prevent air from seeping into or flowing out of your home, keeping your conditioned air where it should be.
  • Effortless operation. No need to push, slide, or reach to open casement windows. Easy-to-use hand cranks are conveniently found at the window base.
  • Security. The locking mechanism on these types of windows is encased within the frame for increased security.

Awning Windows

Like casement windows, awning windows have a hinge opening. The windows hinge along the top and open outward from the bottom, like an awning. These types of windows are used for spaces in which the width of the opening is greater than its height. Homeowners choose awning windows for bedrooms, in bathrooms, and above kitchen sinks for many reasons.

Awning windows allow for greater airflow. Because of their design, they can remain open even on a rainy day. The sash prevents rain from coming into your home while the fresh air streams throughout.

Since awning windows are usually smaller in size, they can be placed higher up on walls. This creates added security and privacy while still allowing plenty of natural light and ventilation. Additionally, you have more wall space available for home décor or for placing taller pieces of furniture.

Views from these windows are less obstructed, if at all. The single-sash design makes dividers unnecessary, so all you see is everything when looking out the window.

Awning windows are extremely efficient. They have a weathertight seal that prevents air seepage in or out. Many of them use energy efficient Low-E glass that helps keep heat out during the summer, so your home stays comfortable.

Whichever hinge-style window option you prefer, the home exteriors experts at Spotless & Seamless can help make sure you’re making the best choice for your needs. Contact us for an estimate and let us explain how to open the possibilities of function and style with casement or awning windows.