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An average roof, measuring anywhere from 2200 to 2600 square feet, will cost homeowners between $1000 and $4000 to fully replace themselves. Professional roofing contractors, on the other hand, charge anywhere from $2000 to $8500 for the same job. It may seem like a no-brainer for a homeowner to tackle their roof replacement project, but it’s actually a much better course of action to hire that roofing contractor. While the cost of having your roof replaced by a professional can be an immense cost, the investment in hiring a professional is well worth it.

Let’s review four reasons you should hire a contractor to replace your roof rather than try to tackle the project on your own in order to save money.

Contractors Can Identify Potential Problems

As a homeowner, maybe you’ve handled your fair share of projects around the house. Maybe you even have experience in working on some repairs on your roof. But do you know what signs of rot look like? Do you know how to determine if your roof can be patched or if the whole thing needs to be replaced? The value of a roofing contractor lies in many factors, but one incredibly important one is the contractor’s ability to identify exactly what your roof needs. The roof keeps you and your family safe, warm, and dry, so the value of such an important part of your home cannot be overstated and is worth having a professional look at it in case of other potential problems like rot or leakage.

Access to High Quality Materials

Having an inside contact in a certain industry allows the average consumer to get their hands on top-grade, high-quality materials they otherwise wouldn’t have access to in common stores. Contractors have contacts all throughout their industry, and can get some remarkable roofing materials that will not only look great on your roof but last for years to come.

Experience

Experience is well worth paying for. Sure, the average homeowner may have dabbled in some small roof repairs over the years, but that experience pales in comparison to the contractors who have spent years honing their craft and learning all they need to know about replacing a roof. Having someone who knows what they’re doing and who knows how to handle any strange issues that come up during repairs is so valuable.

A Crew

Replacing a roof is hard work. It’s not the kind of job that can be hammered out by one individual in a single day of work. One of the benefits of hiring a contractor includes that contractor’s crew. Many hands make light work, and having several experienced individuals working to replace your roof means there will be less of an inconvenience to you and your family but the same exceptional experience and craftsmanship put into your new roof.

The cost of home repair may seem like an area of maintenance that can be cut back on, but the value of hiring a professional roofing contractor is well worth the cost associated with that professional. Experience goes a long way when it comes to home repair, so it’s worth the investment in your roof and your home to hire the right professionals for the job.

Our homes keep us safe, even during rough and unsafe weather conditions.

But unfortunately over time, it can take a toll on your roof and cause heavy damage if not assessed and treated early.

So the next time a severe storm passes through, here’s what you need to know about assessing the damage.

Rain

Leaks are quite common after a heavy rainstorm. The heavy rainfall, in combination with the severe wind, can also cause:

• • cracked shingles

• • mold

• • damage from freefalling debris

To access the damage, you need to look for a few key features. Once the rainstorm has passed, and it’s safe to be outside of your home, walk the perimeter of your house and look for dented and damaged shingles on the ground. Then, check the roof for any curled and missing shingles.

If your roof has a chimney attached, make sure it’s not leaning to one side. If it is, this is a clear sign your roof did not hold up during the storm and is at risk.

Also, check the gutters for debris.

Lastly, look for visible signs of ‘crumbling’ if your roof is made of cement. Call an expert if you fear the storm has caused a large amount of wreckage.

Hail

Hail can get up to baseball sized proportions, so it’s no wonder that after a hailstorm, sometimes the damage can be irreversible.

After a heavy bought of hail, be on the look for mailbox damage and splatter marks on or near the driveway. If you see these signs, there’s a good chance your roof took quite a beating too. It’s time to take a closer look at your roof if you suspect the hail has dented your roof.

Snow

If you live in an area that’s subject to heavy snowfall often, you may already understand what to look for. If not, here are a few signs that the storm left behind than just a white blanket of snow.

The buildup of snow on your roof can be heavy and just as detrimental as hail or intense rain, so don’t underestimate it.

Make sure to look for icicle formations and large amounts of snow buildup on the roof outside of the home. Inside, look around for leaks and check the attic for condensation. These could be signs that the damage has already started to seep its way in the interior of your home.

Conclusion

Looking for these indicators is a good way to keep you out of harm’s way the next time you see storm clouds headed your way.

If you see these signs of damage on your roof or within your home after the storm has passed, call a roofing contractor immediately. The damage can only get worse. A qualified roofing contractor can help with your home improvement and home renovation needs, but they can also take a closer look at the damage done after a reckless storm and help you find the best solution.

Renovation or remodeling is an exciting and challenging time for homeowners. According to recent studies, nearly two-thirds of consumers are planning to renovate their homes, and homeowners spend one to four percent of the value of their home on maintenance and repairs annually. This means that a $200,000 home normally uses $2,000 on maintenance and repairs. The following are some of the things you need to keep in mind as a homeowner when renovating.

1. Create a plan of action before you begin: As a homeowner, there is nothing more important than creating a step of action. This is the plan that will guide you every step of the way in your home remodeling journey. Have a plan on where to store your valuable, how to handle deconstruction and gutting, and have a clear schedule of when to commit to certain actions. A timeline helps you not to drag the project but stay on schedule, so you save time and money. The longer a project takes the more money you use. A schedule also helps avoid the stress that comes with the mess and chaos of home renovation.
2. Have a budget and stick to it: It is easy to get ahead of yourself with what you can afford when undertaking a home improvement project. Obviously, you want the best and you want things to be perfect, but sticking to the budget helps you not to break your bank but still get the dream space you desired. While budgeting, be sure to leave a little room for flexibility and unforeseen issues. You may end up needing new home windows though they were not in the original plan or a roofer might need to get some new materials for your roof.
3. Do your research if you are on a budget: There are tons of gems available if you are willing to do a little research. That rag or roofer you saw on a high-end shop can be bought for a fraction of the money elsewhere, but you won’t find it if you won’t look for it. If you are a homeowner on a budget, this is a great way to save on cash and get the exact items, feel and look you wanted in your house. You can look for items online, thrift shops and second-hand furniture shops to see how far you will get to get the exact item, or something similar.
   The research will also be essential when looking at contractors such as a roofer to help with your remodeling. You want to go with someone who has enough experience, professional and creative within their decision-making and construction ideas.
4. Look out for signs of subsidence: Are you thinking of going wider? Subsidence is something you must look out for. It does not always spell disaster, but cracks 3mm wider on the exterior or cracks that seem to grow bigger from smaller ones should raise an alarm. Subsidence will make it hard to obtain building insurance which will cause problems. You may end up paying any relevant treatments yourself before you get insurance. This is likely to results in high premium rates, allowing the seller to claim against their insurer, which will allow the work to be carried out under their insurance.
5. Make sure you have homeowner’s insurance: Homeowners insurance and permits are as important as a solid plan if not more important. Insurance is your security against possible material theft. It also covers a good part of renovation cost which will be a relief on your part. Permits must be issued for safety purposes. Renovations can be hazardous to homeowners, their neighborhood, and even on a contractor such as a roofer.

Remodeling is a more complex process as it involves changing the structure of your home while renovating simply involves restoration. This means that you need to be adequately prepared if you are to have a successful project. The above tips will guide you on what to expect, how to proceed, and emerge with space you can truly enjoy.

Windows play an important role in your home — not only are they essential for aesthetics and letting natural light in, but they also help keep your home a comfortable temperature. Did you know that if you have drafty windows, your energy bills could be increased by 10 to 25%? This is why it’s crucial to ensure you have high-quality windows in your home. And luckily, spring is a great time to schedule window installation. So let’s take a look at a few reasons why you should invest in new windows this spring.

You won’t let cold drafts inside: One of the biggest benefits of having windows installed during the spring is that you won’t have to worry about the cold getting into your home while the windows are being replaced. If you were to have windows installed in the winter, your home would be subjected to cold drafts coming in from outside. But with the mild spring weather, you can simply enjoy a nice breeze while the new windows are being installed.

Installing may be easier in the heat: Installing windows involves using materials like caulk and silicone. These materials function better in the warmer weather and may be easier for your home improvement contractors to work with. You won’t have to worry about any materials contracting in the cold, which could lead to cracking. In the cold weather, contractors have to be especially careful when working with certain materials — but you won’t have to worry about this in the spring because it won’t be too cold or too hot.

New windows will help keep the house cool: Like previously mentioned, windows play an important role in keeping your home comfortable and can have a big impact on your energy bills. And with warm weather here, you don’t want your windows to be a problem when you turn on the air conditioning. With new windows, you can crank the AC without worrying about the cool air leaking out of the house through the windows. After a long winter, your HVAC system will thank you for giving it a break by installing replacement windows.

As you can see, there are plenty of benefits to installing new windows in the spring. So if you’re in need of newer, more energy-efficient windows, call your local contractor to schedule an installation appointment today.

Spring is (finally) in the air! Flowers are starting to emerge, bare trees are turning green, and your home is in desperate need of a makeover after this wild winter. While spring cleaning is great for sprucing up the insideof your home, the outside needs some love as well; by installing new vinyl siding, you’ll be able to bring the spirit of spring to your house. Here are three reasons why spring is the best season for this home improvement project.

1. Energy Efficient: The bitter cold temperatures of winter force most homeowners to ramp up the heat. This also offers an ideal opportunity to pay attention to the resulting energy bills; if they’re higher than usual, your siding may be at fault because it is no longer providing proper insulation. When you replace your siding, you’ll be filling any holes or cracks that may have allowed your hard-won warm air to escape.
2. Moderate Temperatures: Installing siding in either too hot or too cold weather is a very bad idea due to the fact that they will expand and contract when the temperature changes. As a result, your siding won’t be properly attached to your home. The best temperature to install siding is around 50 degrees Fahrenheit, the spring sweet spot.
3. Low Maintenance: Vinyl siding is relatively easy to care for after it’s installed; the material is rot-proof, insect-resistant, and can last for close to 35 years. It is a cost-effective way to protect your home against the hazards of the coming seasons.

Home renovation is extremely exciting, which explains why more than 50% of homeowners sought it out in 2014. Whether you’re looking to install new home windows, roofing, or siding, the simple change can make a huge difference — both in the appearance of your home and its ability to retain warm and cool air. Trust the best home improvement contractors for the job; while it may seem like a better choice to try your hand at siding installation, only professional contractors are able to ensure a quality final product.

Every year, an average homeowner spends between 1% and 4% of their home’s value on repair work and maintenance. As the house begins to age, the amount they spend increases. In 2014, over half of the homeowners that Houzz surveyed had renovated their homes that year. Of the homeowners who did home renovations during that year, 80% upgraded their home’s main structure and 62% updated outdoor areas or structures. 

This trend is still going strong. Recently, 66% of the individuals surveyed said that they’re planning a home remodel. While you’re still in the planning stages, consider adding these three popular projects to your list. 

1. New Window Installation.

Replacement windows can be very energy- and cost-efficient since drafty windows can raise your energy bills as much as 10% to 25%.

When properly maintained, dual-paned windows of high quality can potentially last over 20 years, and they retain heat and air conditioning nearly twice as efficiently as 20-year old single-paned windows.

Ceccola Construction also mentions that new windows are also easier to clean and use. In addition, homeowners desiring a completely new window style or arrangement may have that done as well. 

2. Replacing Your Roof.

Conventional asphalt roofing lasts about 15 to 25 years. However, a well-maintained galvanized roof may last 30 to 50 years. With the exception of any severe damage caused by extreme weather, aluminum and stainless steel roofing have the capacity to last for 50 years. Shingle Master-Certified roofing contractors like Ceccola Construction can help you choose the product that is right for you.

3. Kitchen Renovation.

According to HGTV, a major kitchen remodeling project can result in a kitchen that is not only beautiful, but one that is more functional and also feels more spacious. If you’re planning to sell your home, an updated kitchen will increase its resale value. Another piece of advice for individuals that are selling is to choose a neutral color palette when remodeling.

Home remodeling is exciting, and considering popular projects such as window replacement, installing a new roof, and major kitchen updates will result in a home that’s lovelier, more functional, and more energy-efficient. Regardless of your reasons for wanting to improve your home, these projects are a great place for you to start.

Homeowners should always be looking for new and exciting ways to improve the look and feel of their properties. A recent survey found that nearly two-thirds of American consumers are planning on renovating their homes at some point. Unfortunately, many of these remodeling projects can lead to serious structural and financial problems if you’re not careful.

From not consulting with roofing contractors to not ordering extra materials, here are some common household renovation mistakes that should be avoided at all costs:

1. Having an unrealistic remodeling budget — Renovation projects can offer wonderful return on investments (ROI), but can still be quite pricy. You should plan out your budget and build in an extra 15% to 20% just so you can be better prepared for any kind of surprise.
2. Inaccurate measurements — Taking good measurements is the basis for pricing, cutting, and handling all your materials and resources for any household renovation project. Just to be safe, it’s recommended to measure three, four, or even five times before you get started.
3. Not ordering extra flooring materials — For flooring renovation projects, though you might not end up using all of the material, it’s a much better idea to purchase extra flooring. Instead of buying the exact amount of material that you think you need, order that amount plus an additional 20%.
4. Performing rooftop tasks yourself — There are plenty of DIY renovation jobs you can perform — but not on your roof. Not only will working on your roof put you at risk, you’ll likely end up doing more harm than good. That’s why it’s important to work with professional roofing contractors. These professionals can perform everything from rooftop maintenance jobs to entire installation projects.

Make sure you’re avoiding these common household mistakes when it comes to renovating. In order to ensure quality remodeling service, especially when it comes to your home’s roofing, it’s best to work with professional roofing contractors. If you want to learn more about the importance of working with an experienced home renovation company and speak with trusted home improvement contractors, give Ceccola Construction a call today.

Home renovations can be a lot of fun and provide value boosts to your property’s worth. Over the winter, it can be difficult to perform various household improvements, though. But you should regularly be inspecting and taking care of your home’s roofing.

If you neglect your roof maintenance and care over the winter, you’ll end up having to spend a significant amount of money for replacement work. In fact, a standard 2,200-to-2,600 square foot roof will cost homeowners as much as $8,500 to fully replace with help from a team of professionals.

In order to avoid completely replacing your roof, consider taking much better care of your roof and never neglecting its maintenance. Here are some winter roofing tips that will help keep your family comfortable during the cold months, safe year-round, and your home looking nice:

• Get rid of snow right away — Snow on a rooftop might look nice during the holidays, but it can also cause major structural damage to your home if it’s left sitting for too long. Snow and ice add a significant amount of weight to your roof, meaning that any area where it’s even slightly compromised could be at risk of major damage. It’s important to remove all snow and ice from your roof as quickly and thoroughly as possible in order to keep it dry.
• Inspect your attic’s ventilation — If your attic is poorly ventilated or insulated, it can lead to all sorts of problems. This can expose your roof to even more snow, ice, and cold weather, leading to all sorts of damaging issues. Go inside your attic and inspect your ventilation and insulation.
• Work with roofing contractors — Though you can rid your roof of snow and properly insulate, in order to ensure that your roof is protected for the long winter, you should hire professionals. Experienced contractors can help you identify potential problems with your roof, as well as perform skilled repairs and maintenance work.

If you are in need of roof work this winter and want to work with some quality Delaware contractors, give Ceccola Construction a call right away.

You should always be searching for new ways to improve the look and feel of your property. Even if you have lived in the same home for 30 years, there are always going to be minor and major things that you could do to boost your property’s value and provide you and your family with a nicer home.

On average, homeowners will spend between 1% and 4% of a home’s value on annual maintenance and repair needs. Whether you’re improving something that’s faulty inside your home or if you’re planning on adding a new addition, you need to be careful, however, because there are so many mistakes that can be easily made and end up causing all kinds of financial and structural problems.

From not hiring roofing contractors during rooftop projects to skipping residential inspections, here are some common household renovation mistakes that you should avoid at all costs:

• Skipping residential inspection — You should schedule every kind of household inspection to ensure that nothing else is going on before, during, and after any renovation project. Structural inspections, roofing inspections, electrical inspections, termite inspections, HVAC inspections, plumbing inspections, and more are essential for a quality home.
• Not working with professional home improvement contractors — Unless you have years of experience performing various household remodeling projects, you likely will ruin your home and your bank account. Professional roofing contractors, for instance, can quickly and effectively revamp your entire home’s roof. If you to perform your roofing maintenance needs yourself, you could end up injuring yourself and destroying your roof.
• Being afraid to change a room’s layout — Take a look around your home. If you love the way a room or area looks but want to change things up a bit, don’t be afraid to adjust the layout. Conversely, you should never force yourself to live with an awkward kitchen, bedroom, or bathroom just because it’ll save money by avoiding renovations. You can move toilets, kitchen islands, anything with the right help.

If you’re in need of professional roofing contractors and want to get working on some major renovation projects, avoid these mistakes and contact Ceccola Construction today!

A recent survey found that approximately two-thirds of property owners are planning on performing some sort of home remodeling project in the near future. 

Home remodeling projects can range from painting a few walls an eccentric color to completely tearing down a section of your home and starting from scratch. Before and during these home renovation projects, however, there are so many essential aspects that you need to focus on and mistakes you need to avoid in order to prevent serious structural and financial problems. 

From not consulting with experienced remodeling contractors to starting too many projects at home, here are some common and costly mistakes that you should avoid when remodeling or making improvements to your home: 

1. 1. Starting too many projects at once — Don’t let your ambitions get the best of you! This happens all the time when it comes to home remodeling. Property owners have dozens of great household improvement ideas, but starting more than one is overwhelming. Whenever someone begins multiple renovation projects, each task usually takes much longer than it should because they bounce from one project to another — sometimes nothing gets done at all. You can make a long list of all the things you want to do, but only focus on one project at a time.
   2. Doing everything yourself — There are plenty of small DIY things you can do around the home, but when it comes to major renovations, you need to work with the pros. Home improvement contractors are knowledgeable and experienced and can help with all kinds of major and minor household renovation and improvement projects.
   3. Neglecting to properly budget — Another common issue that can cause some serious financial issues. If you’re planning a major renovation project in the near future, you need to consider costs in those plans and budget accordingly. If you run out of money during a major project, you could be left with a complete mess in your home for a long time. Set a strict, yet affordable budget, and stick to it no matter what.

If you want to learn more about the importance of quality residential repair and remodeling work, give Ceccola Construction a call right away.