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!


Tips to Avoid Costly Hail Damage Repairs

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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!


Prepare Your Home to Stand Up to the Elements

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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!


Misconceptions About Steel Siding

Misconceptions-About-Steel-Siding

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.


Get Your Home Ready for the Elements

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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.


Exterior Care To-Dos for Your Spring List

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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.


Consider Steel Siding When Updating Your Home’s Look

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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.