If you've owned your house for several years, you know inevitably you'll have to make cosmetic repairs to the exterior. Once every decade, perhaps your neighbors lug out the ladder and paint cans and get to work, and maybe you've done the same thing. If you've considered a different look altogether, though, having vinyl siding installed over the surface of your home provides a drastic yet attractive change that weathers any storm and add value to your property. All you need to do to get started is figure out how you want to side your home.
Vinyl siding, when installed by a professional contractor, look beautiful and is fairly easy to clean. Because of the insulation benefits that go along with it, homeowners may also expect a nice reduction in heating and cooling costs, as well as endless options for color and style. Akin to choosing paint or wallpaper, the process of selecting the right vinyl siding for your home can turn tedious and frustrating if you reach an impasse with your spouse. However, since what you select is what should stay on your house for many years to come, it's important to make the right decision.
How do you choose which siding is best? Take into consideration the physical size of your home - how many stories, if it is split level, and if there are dormers or gables. Note, too, the current exterior of your property to determine if the entire surface will be sided or if some parts of brick or wood will be left exposed. If so, the color you choose should complement your current home.
Horizontal siding is the more common style used on homes, with the vertical "tile" style used often on historical remodel jobs to restore an authentic look. Depending on where you live, the siding you choose will affect the overall environment - so if you plan to sell in the future you may be advised to keep a design consistent with your neighbors. If you live near the beach, you'll want a siding that is not apt to corrode in the corresponding weather conditions, but if you are in a remote location you have more freedom to decide your color scheme.
Vinyl siding offers heavy duty protection from the elements, and an attractive new look to your home. From earthy tones to subtle pastels, there is a color and style perfect for your exterior.
Kathryn Lively is a freelance writer specializing in articles on Norfolk vinyl siding and Virginia Beach handyman services.
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Top Five End of Summer Home Improvement Changes
Ask any mother what her favorite season is, and most likely you'll hear the word Autumn spoken. Of course, the season signals the beginning of the new school year, so what mother could argue with that? Now, while people tend to associate Spring as the time of renewal and fresh starts, one can argue that the fall season is a good starting point as well. School starts in the fall, and you never hear about the "new spring season" on television, right? Therefore it makes sense that if you are interested in new home improvement projects for your home, why not begin just as the leaves are changing color?
Think about Autumn where you live...how quickly does the weather turn cool? Are you in a location at risk for hurricanes and other inclement weather? How and where you live will determine the best improvement procedures for your home, and it's always a good idea to consult with a reputable contractor in your area who can also recommend the best fixes for your interior, backyard, and front landscaping. It's probable you'll hear these five suggestions as you browse possible additions to your house:
1) Awning installation - If you want to continue entertaining on your deck or porch but aren't looking forward to shivering in the cold, a retractable awning can help block winds and retain heat from a fire shoppe setup. Not only that, they look attractive, and you don't have to worry about snow build-up - a retractable awning does just that when you're not using it.
2) Porch enclosure - If you would prefer to separate your back entertainment area from the yard altogether, consider an enclosure and turn your porch into a Florida room. This makes the space usable year-round with large glass windows that bring in light and help keep the temperature perfect for an intimate brunch or cozy evening.
3) Roof installation - After the heat of the summer has faded, and before snow threatens to burden you with days of shoveling, it's a good time to check your roof for any needed repair or replacement. Make sure the ventilation is working properly, too, so you don't waste money on heating bills in the winter.
4) Attic insulation - As the weather gets colder, think of the condition of your attic. Is it properly sealed against the elements? To make sure nothing is leaking, it's good to check on the condition of the insulation and make repairs where needed.
5) Window replacement - Windows bring in natural light, which can cut down power bills. They also keep the outside...out. If you have lived in your home a while, take note of the condition of your window glass. You may wish to replace any brittle windows or else update your home's look.
Don't wait through another winter to get your home in shape for the new seasons. Fall is a great time to think about home improvement. Send the kids back to school and get to work yourself on making your home work better for the whole family.
Kathryn Lively is a freelance writer specializing in articles on Virginia Beach window replacement and Virginia Beach green home improvement.
Think about Autumn where you live...how quickly does the weather turn cool? Are you in a location at risk for hurricanes and other inclement weather? How and where you live will determine the best improvement procedures for your home, and it's always a good idea to consult with a reputable contractor in your area who can also recommend the best fixes for your interior, backyard, and front landscaping. It's probable you'll hear these five suggestions as you browse possible additions to your house:
1) Awning installation - If you want to continue entertaining on your deck or porch but aren't looking forward to shivering in the cold, a retractable awning can help block winds and retain heat from a fire shoppe setup. Not only that, they look attractive, and you don't have to worry about snow build-up - a retractable awning does just that when you're not using it.
2) Porch enclosure - If you would prefer to separate your back entertainment area from the yard altogether, consider an enclosure and turn your porch into a Florida room. This makes the space usable year-round with large glass windows that bring in light and help keep the temperature perfect for an intimate brunch or cozy evening.
3) Roof installation - After the heat of the summer has faded, and before snow threatens to burden you with days of shoveling, it's a good time to check your roof for any needed repair or replacement. Make sure the ventilation is working properly, too, so you don't waste money on heating bills in the winter.
4) Attic insulation - As the weather gets colder, think of the condition of your attic. Is it properly sealed against the elements? To make sure nothing is leaking, it's good to check on the condition of the insulation and make repairs where needed.
5) Window replacement - Windows bring in natural light, which can cut down power bills. They also keep the outside...out. If you have lived in your home a while, take note of the condition of your window glass. You may wish to replace any brittle windows or else update your home's look.
Don't wait through another winter to get your home in shape for the new seasons. Fall is a great time to think about home improvement. Send the kids back to school and get to work yourself on making your home work better for the whole family.
Kathryn Lively is a freelance writer specializing in articles on Virginia Beach window replacement and Virginia Beach green home improvement.
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