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!

Hail doesn’t just have a big impact on your home. It can make a big hit on your wallet, too. According to Home Advisor, hail damage repairs cost anywhere from $2,400 to $15,000. Using the right products now can help avoid costly hail damage repairs down the road, saving you money in the long run. Read on as we discuss tips to avoid costly hail damage repairs.

Is Hail Damage Really an Issue?

First, let’s talk about what hail damage means for your home. Hail comes in at an angle, meaning it doesn’t just hit the roof; it assaults the side of the house as well. Cracks from hail damage leave the frame and interior of your home vulnerable to moisture, which can result in mold and dry rot, so hail damage should be repaired as quickly as possible.

Of course, it would be better if you could prevent that damage in the first place.

Choosing the Right Roof

The roof is one of the first parts of the home to take the brunt of impact from hail. A metal roof is much stronger than traditional roofing materials and comes with a longer lifespan, with many manufacturers offering a 50-year limited lifetime warranty on products.

The Best Siding for Protection from Hail Damage

When it comes to your home’s exterior, you have a lot of choices for siding. But testing has found vinyl and engineered wood just don’t offer the same level of durability, from repairing holes and dents to repainting products after severe weather.

United States Seamless® Steel Siding offers greater impact resistance. Made of multiple layers adhered to a galvanized steel core, even the paint is resistant to harsh weather, with a limited lifetime warranty against fading and chalking. Plus, you don’t just get the strength of steel, you also get a product that’s custom fit to protect your home without seams, splices, or joints, meaning even more moisture protection.

If you’re looking to upgrade your roof and siding, Spotless & Seamless is your top Twin Cities contractor for your home exteriors needs. We can help you determine what’s best for your home to avoid costly hail damage repairs from summer storms. Contact us today for a free estimate!

Those dark and stormy nights may seem fun in a story book or on the big screen. But for the unprepared homeowner, they can mean costly repairs. With storm season upon us, we’ve put together a few quick tips to help you get your home ready for the unexpected. Read on as we discuss how to prepare your home to stand up to the elements.

Clean Out Your Gutters

Your gutters carry rainwater away from the foundation. As such, they play a critical role in protecting your home from water damage. Clogged gutters can lead to water seeping into your basement and crawlspace. What’s more, if they get too heavy, those gutters can collapse. Consider installing a gutter protection system like LEAFAWAY®. You can then check this task off your list forever by keeping your gutters debris free all year long.

Trim Those Trees

If you have a lot of beautiful trees on your property, be sure to take care of them. Now is a good time to call in an arborist to see if any branches need to be removed. That way when the wind picks up, those branches won’t come through your windows or roof.

Get Your Roof in Top Shop

Speaking of roofs, no one wants to find out their roof needs a repair by discovering a leak in the middle of a heavy storm. The National Roofing Contractors Association recommends having your roof inspected twice a year. You’ll know if repairs are in order before your roof becomes a problem.

Upgrade Your Siding

Not all siding is created equal. This is especially true when it comes to withstanding high winds, hail damage, and the impact of falling branches. Our United States Seamless® Steel Siding provides superior strength and a finish that’s resistant to harsh weather.

If you’re looking for professional help to prepare your home to stand up to the elements this storm season, call on Spotless & Seamless. We are your top Twin Cities contractor for home exteriors needs. Contact us today for a free estimate!

Skylights are a beautiful feature of many homes, offering exterior curb appeal, expanded indoor lighting, and a chance to see the night sky indoors. But for many homeowners they can be out of sight and out of mind, especially when it comes to maintenance. Read our blog for valuable information on when to replace your skylights.

Most Skylights Should Be Replaced Every 10 Years

The easiest way to keep up with your skylights is to consider their age. For optimal performance and minimal wear and tear, skylights should be replaced every 10 years or so. Of course, some issues can occur that may mean a replacement is in order a little sooner.

Signs You Need a New Skylight

If you’re seeing cracked glass, that’s a pretty clear indicator you need a new skylight. But other seemingly less detrimental signs of aging like yellowed or murky glass or bubbling around the drywall can mean it’s time to call in a professional.

Replacing a Leaky Skylight?

Leaks in your skylights obviously need to be repaired, but do they need to be replaced? Reflashing a skylight can range anywhere from $200 to $600 while a replacement can range from $800 to $1500. Depending on the age of your current skylights, it may be worth paying the extra cost now rather than having to replace it or repair it again in a few years.

Replace Your Skylight When Putting on a New Roof

Like skylights, roofs also have a limited lifetime. Depending on the material, you’ll need to replace your roof every 12 to 30 years. If it’s time to update your roof, you can save time on labor by replacing your skylights simultaneously.

Ready to replace your skylight? Spotless & Seamless is your top Twin Cities contractor for all your home exteriors needs, with solutions for windows and doors, roofing, and seamless siding. Contact us today for a free estimate.

In a previous blog, we discussed spring weather and its effects on your home and property. Warmer temps often mean the potential for intense storms. We wanted to reiterate the importance of being prepared and offer a few tips to get your home ready for the elements.

In the Yard

Look around on any given day, and you probably notice things around the yard that need work or tidying up. Before stormy weather rolls in, be sure to take care of those tasks that could otherwise cause damage to your home during severe weather.

• Trees. Trim any branches that have contact with your home’s roof or siding. Also, clear dead tree limbs so they don’t come loose during heavy winds and damage your siding or break a window.
• Lawn furniture. Take inventory of your lawn or patio furniture and anchor it down or secure it in a garage or shed. Close and fasten any deck umbrellas as well. Your home’s exterior may become damaged if strong winds throw these items around during a storm.
• Fence. Check fence doors and/or boards to ensure they’re secure. Again, these things can come loose during a storm and get blown into siding, doors, or windows.

Inside

Keep yourself and your family safe from the effects of inclement weather with a storm kit. This may come in handy if you lose power or need to shelter in place for any length of time. Include items such as flashlights, batteries, a first-aid kit and necessary medications, a phone charger, and enough food and water for each family member. Once the storm is over, remember to restock your kit.

Hopefully, you’ll never need to use a storm pack, but you’re better off being prepared in case of emergency.

Outside

Check the gutters. Tighten any loose connections and replace sections that may be cracked or broken. Clear out any debris to avoid clogs or water overflow during a downpour. Also, make sure downspouts are pointed away from your home. This will keep rainwater flowing out from the foundation and help keep things dry.

Additionally, make sure your doors and windows are set to withstand a spring or summer storm. Exterior doors should be supported by at least three hinges and have a solid locking mechanism, preferably a deadbolt.

Close windows to keep water from damaging your home’s interior and to help protect the roof. A strong wind coming in through open windows can create upward pressure on the roof from the inside. So, it’s best to keep windows sealed up.

You’ve probably already checked your roof for any damage after the winter season, but give it another look as the weather dictates. After all, this is your home’s canopy and one of the most important means of protection. Secure or replace and loose or cracked shingles to help shield the roof from rain and wind.

Be Ready for the Elements

Taking care of your home is a full-time job, and we hope these tips will help get your home ready for the elements. At Spotless & Seamless, we understand the responsibility that goes along with home ownership and want to help make things easier for you. Ask our Twin Cities home exteriors professionals about ways to protect your home this storm season and all year long. We offer seamless siding, roofing, window and door, and gutter solutions to keep your home safe no matter the weather. Contact us today to learn more.

The calendar is turning toward spring, but your home may still feel the harsh effects from winter. The best way to know for sure is to walk around your yard and take note of anything in need of attention. If you don’t know where to start, we can help with these exterior care to-dos for your spring list.

Roofing

Your home’s roof has endured a lot – cold, wind, ice, and snow – over the past several months.

Give the roof a good examination and look for signs of distress, such as loose, missing, or curled shingles. Pay attention indoors for signs of leaks originating from the outdoors. Take note of the roof’s appearance, as indentations or depressions may indicate larger issues beneath the surface.

Any and all of these issues should be addressed as quickly as possible. Taking care of them now will help you avoid bigger and more costly problems down the road.

Gutters

More than likely, you cleaned out the gutters last fall. Now, you’ll want to make sure the snow and ice melting from the rooftop have a designated and safe route for escape.

Give the gutters another look in case branches or other debris got stuck in them over the winter. Or maybe you notice gaps in the system or loose connections. Replace and repair anything that’s broken or loose or reach out to a trained professional to handle the fixes.

Maybe now is the time to upgrade your gutters and consider a LEAFAWAY® protection system. You won’t have to clean your gutters or worry about drainage again.

Siding

Check the siding for any pieces that may have come loose or become damaged or warped over the winter months.

You’ll want to take care of any issues right away to prevent moisture from getting in as the spring thaw continues. Moisture can wreak havoc by causing wood rot or issues with mold, creating costly headaches and potential health issues for your family.

If your home’s siding is in need of full repair, United States Seamless® Steel Siding provides a superior option for ideal performance and protection.

Windows

Seasonal temperature fluctuations put your windows to the test, and winter’s frigid conditions are especially brutal. Thoroughly clean the windows so they’re ready for warmer weather, and check for cracks in the glass or damage to the panes or sills. Determine what, if anything, should be mended immediately to protect your home. You want to be sure to keep the unconditioned air and water outside where it belongs.

Perhaps this is the year you upgrade to energy efficient windows. Save on heating and cooling costs while increasing comfort, safety, and curb appeal with high-performance Ply Gem windows.

These are just a few ideas of exterior care to-dos for your spring list, but they’re enough to get you started. If you notice any issues that seem troublesome, Spotless & Seamless is here to help. Our Twin Cities home exteriors experts can assess roofing, gutters, siding, and windows and go over ideas for repair or replacement to fit your lifestyle and budget. Contact us today.

The gutter system on your home is meant to help protect your investment no matter the season. For gutters to effectively work, you should address a few key points. Now that winter has officially arrived, we can expect wicked weather and colder temps. But don’t worry; we can help you avoid frozen gutters with these ideas.

Keep Them Clear

If the channels are clogged, gutters cannot guide rainwater and melting ice away from your home.

Clean gutters at least twice a year and especially after all the trees have shed their leaves in the fall. When the weather changes, remove any icicles from the edge of the roof to prevent those from dropping off and collecting or freezing inside the gutters.

Check the Pitch

Gutters should be sloped a bit to ensure they properly keep water moving down and away from your home and its foundation. Check to make sure your system slopes at least one-quarter inch for every 10 feet of gutter.

Melt Away Ice

Ice that builds up in your gutters can create dams, which can allow melting snow and ice to seep into your home. Melt away any ice and avoid potentially costly damage to your roof and your home.

Try installing heated cables. Most often these cables clip to the shingles and lay in a zig-zag pattern at the edge of the roof, just over the gutter system. They gently warm any snow or ice and prevent it from building up in the gutters.

You can also sprinkle roof melt or sodium chloride to help prevent snow and ice accumulation. Be careful to avoid using rock salt, which is corrosive and may damage your gutters and your yard.

Rake the Roof

Keep the edge of your roof clear of snow so that it doesn’t fall into the gutter system. Use a roof rake and gently remove excess snow from the fringe of the roofline. This will help protect your gutters and decrease the burden of weight on your roof.

Check Insulation

Poke your head into the attic and check to see if your roof is properly insulated. Adequate insulation will keep the shingles cool and prevent melting snow from collecting and freezing in the gutters.

Ice and snow can collect in your gutter system during winter months and cause all kinds of issues. If gutters are frozen, they cannot properly function and protect your home. Furthermore, added weight inside the gutters can cause them to become overwhelmed and buckle, become loose, or break away completely. These ideas can help you avoid frozen gutters and keep your home safe and sound. If you do notice issues with your gutters, the Twin Cities home exteriors professionals at Spotless & Seamless can help. We can answer your questions and even discuss with you how the additional benefits of a LEAFAWAY® gutter protection system. Contact us today.

The weather outside isn’t exactly frightful just yet. You can still decorate your home’s exterior for the holidays without the fear of Jack Frost nipping at your extremities. From twinkling lights to festive wreaths, here are some ideas to help protect yourself and your home while you safely deck the halls.

Lights

Before you add the shimmering flair of holiday lights, make sure any strings and cords are free from defects. Discard if you find any fraying or other damage that could cause electrical issues. Additionally, check that any lights or extension cords are labeled for outdoor use.

Mounting outdoor lights can be tricky but doesn’t have to be. You want to make sure the lights are well supported without causing damage to the protective insulation around the strand or to your home’s exterior.

If possible, avoid attaching lights with nails, staples, or screws. These fastening tools can damage your siding or fascia and can be especially harmful to shingles. Holes in shingles present entry points for moisture, which can present issues with mold and the roof’s structural integrity.

Instead, try using plastic clips to secure the strands to your home. Available in a variety of styles, these holders slip onto the gutters, shingles, or eaves and hold the lights in place without worry of damage to the siding or roof.

Ladders

The best way to hang lights is by using a ladder but be sure to do so safely. Watch for and avoid overhead power lines. Also, make sure the rungs are clean and dry, and wear nonslip shoes. Keep from standing on your toes. Both feet should be flat on the rungs to help maintain your balance.

The ladder should stretch about three feet beyond your roof, so that you’re not overreaching when attaching the lights. Take note of the warning labels and refrain from standing higher than the second rung from the top.

If you’re using an extension ladder, remember to set the base of the ladder out one foot for every four feet of distance from the ground to the roof or other contact point. With an extension ladder, keep from climbing past the fourth rung from the top.

Wreaths

A wreath can add a festive touch to your home’s entrance. Easily hang one without damaging the front door by using:

• A self-adhesive hook. Multi-purpose mounting tools like Command™ Brand strips can be affixed and removed with ease.
• A wreath hanger. One of those fancy (or plain) over-the-door hangers allows for perfect wreath placement without the need for a hammer and nail.
• A clear hook. If you want your holiday wreath to hang distraction-free, try a clear adhesive or suction cup hook.
• A ribbon. Loop any ribbon of your choice through the back of the wreath form. Then suspend the wreath at the desired length and attach the ribbon to the top of the door frame with thumb tacks.

However you choose to decorate this season, remember to have fun and protect yourself and your home while you safely deck the halls. If you notice any issues with your home’s siding or roofing, your Twin Cities home exteriors professionals at Spotless & Seamless are here to help. Contact us with any questions or concerns.

That crisp air and those colorful trees mean fall weather is officially upon us. With each changing season comes a new list of home maintenance tasks. The roof does its job of protecting you and your home all year, but how do you look out for it and keep it sturdy? Read on to learn simple ways to protect your roof this fall.

Remove Debris

Clear your roof of tree branches, leaves, pine needles, and other debris. These things can hold moisture and eventually mold or rot, which could cause shingles and roofing material to deteriorate.

Use a broom or blower to remove debris. Also, keep an eye on lower areas where slopes meet. Rainwater collects in these valleys to flow off the roof, so it’s important to make sure the passageway is open.

Additionally, look for and trim any low-lying branches or those that hang over the edge of your roof. This will help prevent moisture and debris from resting against or collecting on the rooftop. Remember to use caution: Be aware of and careful around any power lines near your home’s roof. Don’t hesitate to contact the utility company to do the trimming for you.

Look for Damage

Now that your roof is free from debris, check the surface for any signs of damage. Look for broken, missing, or curled shingles and repair or replace them right away. If you find significant flaws, have a qualified expert inspect the area to determine whether you may need a full roof replacement.

Also, check the flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights. This material directs water away from those vulnerable areas of the roof, so be sure it is in fine working condition.

Clear Gutters

If you have a gutter system along your roofline, be sure to keep it clear.

That debris from your rooftop often ends up in your gutters, which creates clogs and prevents the system from properly draining water. Rainwater can then overflow and damage your roof, siding, and trim boards. If the gutters become too heavy from rain-soaked debris and standing water, the system may start to pull loose or even collapse.

Save yourself from potentially expensive repairs by clearing the gutters throughout the fall. Once the trees around your home have lost their leaves, do another thorough cleaning to ensure the channels are unobstructed.

Or, to avoid the hassle of gutter cleaning altogether, consider installing a LEAFAWAY® Gutter Protection System.

With cooler weather finally here, be sure to get outside and keep up with home maintenance. These simple suggestions will help protect your roof this fall. If you have concerns about possible roof damage or questions about gutters, the Twin Cities area home exteriors professionals at Spotless & Seamless can help. Contact us today to learn more.

If you have recently purchased a home, congratulations! Homeownership offers a host of opportunities, with some required maintenance and upkeep. Now that you’re situated in your new place, you’ll want to be sure it’s ready for the changing season. Use these traditional tips to protect your new investment this fall.

Windows and Doors

As the weather turns cooler, keep your home’s warm air from escaping. Check around doors and windows for gaps in caulking and weather stripping. These materials depreciate over time, so perform regular checks to ensure a proper seal.

Repair or replace any gaps with the appropriate materials. Additionally, check the seals around cable, gas, and electrical entry points to be sure they are properly secured.

If you feel your home may need new, high-performance windows or doors, schedule a free consultation with one of our experienced professionals.

Gutters

Safeguard your home’s exterior – and interior! – by keeping the gutters clean. Clogged gutters can lead to water buildup that can damage roofing and siding. Be sure to clear out leaves, branches, nests, and other debris. Also, consider covering your gutters with a LEAFAWAY® gutter protection system and never clean gutters again.

Prevent potential foundation issues by checking downspouts. Keep them free from obstructions and make sure they’re directing water several feet away from your home, sidewalks, and driveways.

Roofing

If you notice sand-like particles in your gutters, this may signal a shingle issue. That grit protects the roof’s shingles from sun damage. Inspect the condition of your shingles to make sure they’re still protecting your home from the elements.

Also, look for cracked, missing, loose, or warped shingles and replace them as needed. Check areas around ventilation pipes or chimneys to be sure the flashing is intact and secure. If it’s not, water can seep in and lead to expensive repairs.

Siding

Clean any dirt, mildew, or other debris from siding to protect its durability and keep insects away. Check for any damage, especially in corners and areas where trim boards connect. Any cracks or holes in siding should be addressed and fixed as soon as possible.

Trim tree branches and shrubs, especially if they’re close to the house. This will prevent scratches or other damage during high winds and help keep moisture from potentially seeping in through constant contact with exterior siding.

For better peace of mind, consider installing United States Seamless® Steel Siding. This maintenance-free option provides proven performance and offers a wide range of design and color choices.

Your new home is a big investment. These traditional tips should help you protect that investment this fall. If you have questions or concerns about your home’s windows and doors, roofing, gutters, or siding, the home exteriors experts at Spotless & Seamless are here to help. Contact us today for recommendations or to schedule an estimate or installation.