10 questions & concerns pertaining to exterior remodeling:

1. Will replacing my windows, roof and/or siding increase the value of my home?
Not only will the replacement of any of these products add to the value of your home but it will also increase your selling potential as a result of the current real estate market and energy predicament.

2. Should I have to worry about future maintenance costs after purchasing these products (painting, cleaning, etc.)?
Product selection is a key factor when determining this.  Quality materials will not only enhance the aesthetics of your home but should also be maintenance-free for the life of those products. Regular cleaning will only enhance the beauty of your products.

3. Should I see a reduction in energy costs when replacing any of these products?
Again, product knowledge is important when discussing energy factors. Roof  replacement should have minor benefits in decreasing energy usage. However, window, door, and siding replacement could have great effectiveness in reducing energy costs depending on the quality of the products and proper installation.  Some manufacturers will even go so far to guarantee a certain percentage of savings.

4. Could it be possible to install these products on my own?
Possible, yes … recommended, NO!  First of all, most manufacturer’s warranties will be void if their products were not installed by a licensed professional.  These projects should always be completed by a licensed professional who has vast knowledge of these products and can be held accountable should a problem arise.  Any minor detail that is missed during installation could cause costly and extensive damage to your home.

5. Are all home improvement contractors licensed and insured?  Why is that so important?
Absolutely not.  Insurance policies are very costly and the licensing process can be rigorous which will deter most contractors.  You should always ask for proof of licensing and insurance before choosing a contractor.  If someone were to be injured or damage occurred during your project, you want to be sure that you or your homeowner’s insurance will not be responsible.

6.Can I receive a tax credit for having these products installed on my home?
You can receive a tax credit for window and siding replacement when using Energy Star products.  Consult with your accountant to understand the exact value of these credits. 

7. Why should I choose Vinyl replacement windows over Wood replacement  windows?
When it comes to energy savings vinyl windows will insulate just as well if not better than wood windows depending on the quality.  Vinyl windows are much more cost effective than wood windows due to high manufacturing costs and intensive labor.  A quality vinyl window will usually come with a lifetime warranty as opposed to a 10 to 15 year warranty with a wood window.  You can paint wood windows, but you will not have the maintenance-free feature of the vinyl windows that most folks anticipate.  Storm windows are usually recommended with wood windows which is an added expense.

8. Why should I choose Vinyl siding opposed to other exterior siding products?
MAINTENANCE-FREE……Vinyl siding requires absolutely no maintenance when a quality product is installed properly.  Painting is usually a very costly and timely process which must be done routinely. Any other siding products will require routine painting to maintain the aesthetics of the product including aluminum, wood, and most of all, fiber-cement.  Vinyl siding that is installed with the proper underlayment will offer exceptional energy savings and could also provide a tax credit.
Other siding products will not feature the lifetime warranty that most quality vinyl siding will offer            

9. Is it possible to repair the existing products on my home?
It is possible to repair most of these products depending on the severity of the wear or damage to your materials. However, it is very difficult to determine the overall effectiveness of your repairs which could result in lost time and money or possible further damages.

10. How do I know I have chosen the right contractor for my project?
Be sure that your contractor has given you a thorough knowledge of the products you have chosen and a complete understanding of the installation process.  If the contractor is vague in explaining his products and installation process you should beware.  This is usually a sign that there is a lack of knowledge and/or inferior products will be installed.  A good contractor should always supply you with the proper credentials.  If none are provided this usually means there are none.  Make sure your contractor specializes in the type of project you are planning to complete.  Most folks would not contract an electrician to install their windows.  A friend or family member may claim to be able to complete the project for you.  However, when this occurs you are usually on their time and should a problem arise with your project at any point, you should be able to hold someone accountable without jeopardizing a relationship.   

How do I receive a free estimate from the best company to complete my remodeling project?
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