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Adelphia Exteriors

Northern VA Roofing, Siding & Window Contractors

7 Reasons Why Your Vinyl Siding Is Warping

warp siding of homeVinyl is a top siding choice among homeowners thanks to its affordability, versatility and ease of maintenance. However, despite being weather-resistant, it is occasionally prone to warping. Learn more about what causes vinyl siding to warp and how it can be prevented for maximum curb appeal.

Faulty Installation

Improperly installed vinyl siding is prone to warping. When installers nail the siding to down too tightly, it can lead to bulging that gets worse with fluctuating temperatures. Inexperienced siders may nail siding tightly in the hopes that it remains intact longer, but this can have the opposite effect. Vinyl siding should always be installed with its propensity to expand and contract with the climate in mind.

Vinyl siding is designed to be fastened fairly loosely so it has room to move and adjust as the weather conditions change. One way of checking whether it has been nailed too tightly is by trying to move it slightly; it should be able to shift around ¼ to ½ of an inch from side to side.

The placement of the nails themselves can also contribute to warping. The nails should be placed in the middle of the oval-shaped openings at the top of the panels designed for nailing, taking care to ensure they are not too close to either of the ends to allow room for expansion and contraction.

On a similar note, shutters should never be nailed directly through the siding and into the wood located beneath it as this can pin the siding down, making it more vulnerable to warping and distortion.

Heat

warp siding due to heat waveExcessive heat is one of the top causes of warped vinyl. After all, vinyl is plastic, and it can start to melt when the outside temperatures get too high. Darker vinyl or vinyl that has been painted with darker colors is more prone to warping as it absorbs more heat than lighter colors.

If high temperatures are a concern, homeowners can avoid this problem by choosing a lighter color that reflects light and heat. Painting vinyl a shade that is darker than its existing color should be avoided as the siding may not be able to accommodate the extra heat it will absorb. In areas that experience extreme temperature swings, it may be worth exploring whether a different material will hold up better.

Homeowners should also avoid placing gas grills close to their home as the heat can cause the siding nearby to warp or melt. Keep grills at least three feet away from the home to avoid this.

Poor Alignment

Another potential issue related to installation is poor panel alignment. If the ends of the panels are placed too close to the trim around the windows or at the corners of the home, there will not be enough room for the vinyl to move as it expands and contracts. This can lead to unsightly warping and waving.

Pests

honeybees on sidingAlthough it is not the most common cause of warping in vinyl siding, it is worth exploring whether pests could be to blame if other potential causes have been ruled out. Termites and other types of pests can cause significant damage to a home. Once they start eating away at the structure of the house, the siding can warp, which creates a wider gap through which additional pests and small rodents can make their way inside.

Reflections From Low-E Glass Windows

One surprising cause of warping vinyl siding is the presence of windows with Low-E glass nearby, whether it is on the home experiencing the warped vinyl or a neighbor’s home. Low-E glass is an energy-efficient material that can diffuse UV rays so they do not enter the house. However, this causes them to reflect back off the glass, and this may cause the vinyl siding it reflects on to warp.

This can be easily prevented by installing an external screen on the window that is reflecting light back onto the home. Planting a tree or shrub can also help to block some of the reflecting light.

Low-Quality Siding

cracked sidingVinyl is an affordable material in general, but homeowners need to make sure they are choosing a better-quality vinyl that is reasonably thick and durable. Cheaper vinyl panels can be quite thin and may already be slightly wavy even before they are installed; this will only get worse after they have been nailed down and exposed to the elements.

Changes In The Home’s Foundation

Although it is uncommon, changes in the foundation of a home can cause vinyl siding to warp as the home settles and shifts over time. It may be worth inspecting the home’s foundations if some of the more common causes of warped vinyl siding have been ruled out.

Discuss Your Project With The Northern Virginia Exterior Remodeling Contractors

Ensure your siding has maximum durability and curb appeal with help from the experts at Adelphia Exteriors. Contact us today to learn more about our Northern Virginia residential siding services.

4 Tips For Choosing The Right Roofing Contractor

worker installing metal roofRoofs play an important role in protecting a home, but their position at the top of the house leaves them constantly exposed to the elements. This can lead to major problems for the roof itself that can impact the entire home if not corrected quickly and effectively.

Roofing requires specialist knowledge, so homeowners who are experiencing problems with their roof or seeking a replacement need to hire a roofing contractor to ensure the work is carried out safely and correctly. Unfortunately, not all roofing contractors are created equally.

Roofing work can be quite expensive, so homeowners need to weigh their options carefully. Here is some advice on how to choose the right roofing contractor.

Ask For Recommendations

The first step is compiling a list of potential roofing contractors that can be narrowed down, so ask around for recommendations. Neighbors who have recently had roofing work done are an excellent source, as are family and friends who live in the area.

Even if they would not recommend the contractor they used, this can help to eliminate prospects from the list. Homeowners’ associations may also be able to provide recommendations.

Homeowners should get bids from several roofing contractors before making their decision, so aim for at least five preliminary recommendations.

Check Their Qualifications

Roofing is a job that poses a lot of risks to those carrying out the work, and improper roofing can put the home’s structure and inhabitants at risk. Therefore, it is important to take the time to check the qualifications of the roofing contractors you are considering. This is particularly important if a roofing contractor has contacted you unsolicited following a storm with a low bid for work.

First, the roofing contractor you work with must be licensed in your area. This can be verified by visiting the website of the National Association of State Contractors Licensing Agencies. There is a listing for each state where homeowners can search for contractors by name.

roofing contractor showing thumbupThey also need to be insured, and it is worth asking them what type of coverage they have and if it is current; this can be verified with their insurance company if there are any doubts. They should also be bonded, which means a bonding company has placed money in an account where it will be available to consumers if they need to file a claim against the roofer.

Be sure to ask the roofers you are considering to provide you with references, and make a point of contacting them to find out whether they were happy with the work. Be wary of contractors who are unwilling to provide references.

Few roofers will provide the contact information of someone who was unhappy with their work, so be creative and ask if anything unexpected arose during the job and how this was handled and communicated to the homeowner.

You should also conduct some of your own research online to get more opinions about the roofer’s work. Keep in mind that a particularly unhappy customer is more likely to post about a negative experience online, and you may also encounter some glowing reviews that come from the business itself or their associates to enhance their reputation.

Therefore, it is best to eliminate extreme outliers when making your assessment of online opinions and instead look at the overall trend and any common praises or complaints that arise repeatedly.

Find Out What Services They Offer

Some roofing contractors specialize in one particular area, such as inspections or replacements, while others offer a broader menu of services. If you anticipate having significant roofing needs in the future, it is best to go with a full-service contractor and establish a relationship with them. This is less important for one-off repairs for homeowners who plan to move soon or have a relatively new roof that is unlikely to encounter issues.

Some of the services to look for include roof repair and replacement, roof inspections, infrared scans for leaks, debris removal, roof weatherproofing, insulation and ventilation installation, and cleaning.

Choose a contractor with experience in the type of project at hand and the type of material involved. While most roofers can repair and install asphalt shingles, some may not have experience with materials such as natural slate or clay tiles. More unusual choices such as green roofing material or solar shingles often require specialist roofing contractors.

Important Questions to Ask

There are a few questions you should ask potential roofing contractors beyond the points mentioned above. These include:

roof installation in process

  • When can you start?
  • How long will the job take?
  • Will you provide a written estimate?
  • What payment methods do you accept?
  • Is the work covered by a manufacturer’s warranty?
  • What happens in the case of inclement weather?
  • Will you take care of disposing of old roofing materials?
  • How much experience do you have with my roofing material?

Discuss Your Project With The Northern Virginia Roofing Contractors

If you are looking for professional residential roofing contractors for your installation or replacement project, get in touch with Adelphia Exteriors today to request a free roof evaluation. Reach out to them online or over the phone at (703) 386-7357.

Common Window Installation Issues Due To Poor Installation

window contracting in arlingtonUpgrading a home’s windows is a great way to improve its appearance and value while reducing energy bills. However, improperly installed windows can have the opposite effect, allowing water and air to get into the home and causing structural damage.

When homeowners are looking to keep the overall costs of a window upgrade project low, it is important to keep in mind that choosing inexperienced installers may be more expensive in the long run. Here is a look at some of the most common window installation issues homes can encounter as a result of poor installation.

Difficulty Opening And Closing The Windows

Windows that have not been installed properly may develop problems opening and closing. This may not be obvious in the beginning, particularly if the windows were installed during the colder season when they are not opened as often. However, once the summer heat sets in, homeowners may notice that their windows do not open and close smoothly or get stuck from time to time. This is often the result of damage to the mechanical parts in the window.

Gaps Between The Sill And The Frame

One of the most obvious signs that a window has been installed poorly is the presence of a gap between the window sill and the window frame. This can occur when the installer does not measure the materials correctly, causing them to line up poorly once they are in place.

Sometimes the gap may not be obvious when looking at the window, but these gaps are usually quite easy to feel. For example, the house may feel breezy in the area of the window, and you may notice your energy bills increasing as well.

Although some homeowners may dismiss this as a minor problem, it is important to note that in addition to letting air through, gaps also allow water to enter the home. This can damage the walls surrounding the window and may lead to the development of dangerous mold.

Caulking Issues

window caulk damagedOne of the problems that can arise when a window installer rushes the job is incomplete or messy caulking. This sealant is placed around the windows to seal gaps and prevent the elements and pests from entering the home.

If caulking is not applied properly, it will not be effective in carrying out these important functions. Failing to properly clean the area before installing caulking can also lead to difficulties.

Drafts And Water Damage

Water and air entering the home through the windows when they are closed is another common sign that the windows were not installed correctly.

Leaks are fairly easy to spot in the form of wet stains on the floor or mold along the base of the walls. Even if the water is not visible, homeowners will eventually be able to smell or feel it.

When it comes to air, drafts are generally more noticeable in the winter when cooler air is coming through the window. Fluctuations in temperature can contribute to cracking and warping at the frame, and drafty windows make the home uncomfortable and cause utility bills to rise.

Fog Between The Glass Panes

It is not unusual to note some condensation on windows from time to time, even when they are new and correctly installed. However, if the windows look wet when it is not raining and there is condensation inside of the window panes, homeowners should reach out to their installer for advice.

Increases In Energy Consumption

One sign of improperly installed windows that can become more apparent with time is an increase in energy consumption. Windows that have not been placed correctly can allow heat to escape from the home, and this will be noticeable in the form of rising utility bills.

Glass Stains And Discoloration

Another long-term sign of a poor window installation is discolored glass. This typically occurs because the window is allowing water to get inside, which can lead to a yellowish tint over time. This type of staining is difficult to remove, and it is usually better to have a new window properly installed in its place.

Uneven Windows

window in springAlthough older homes may experience shifting of their windows over time, recently installed windows should fit perfectly in their place inside the structure of the frame and remain there. A good window installation crew will measure carefully to ensure a level window installation, while proper sealing can prevent damage to the home’s insulation.

Reach Out To The Northern Virginia Window Replacement Professionals

Upgrading your windows is a major decision that can have a significant effect on your home’s comfort level and appearance. At Adelphia Exteriors, we pride ourselves on educating our clients and helping them make the best decisions for their home, lifestyle and budget. To learn more about our energy-efficient windows and professional installation and replacement services or to request an estimate, contact us today.

Popular Siding For Northern Virginia Homes

home with new siding installedNew siding is a great way to make functional and aesthetic improvements to a home. In addition to protecting the home from the elements, it is a great way to provide it with the appearance the homeowner seeks.

There are plenty of great siding options available, but one of the most important considerations when choosing materials is climate. Northern Virginia enjoys a temperate climate with very few days of extreme temperatures. However, the area is prone to rainfall and occasional harsh elements such as high winds, thunderstorms and hail.

Siding is one of the first lines of defense that a home has against weather conditions, so choosing the right material for the local conditions is the best way to preserve the home’s value. Here is a look at the best materials for siding Northern Virginia homes.

Vinyl

For homeowners who are looking for a siding material that is available in a rainbow of shades and a variety of textures and styles, vinyl is the ideal choice. Low-maintenance and affordable, this is the chosen siding material of around two-thirds of Northern Virginia homes. It is well suited to the area’s wet and humid conditions thanks to its ability to resist water absorption, flaking and rotting. In addition, it stands up well against the heat and wind.

Aluminum

aluminium sidingAluminum may cost a bit more than vinyl siding, but it is popular thanks to its stylish appearance and durability. Like vinyl, it is available in an array of styles and colors so that homeowners can get the exact look they desire. Although aluminum can rust, it will last for many years with proper maintenance and is very easy to clean.

However, one potential issue for homeowners to be aware of is the potential of aluminum siding to dent. Regular inspections can ensure that dents do not compromise the siding’s overall performance.

Fiber Cement

For homeowners who would like the look of wood without the hefty price tag and potential downfalls, fiber cement is a great choice. This siding material has been growing in popularity thanks to its ability to look exactly like natural wood.

Made using a combination of wood fibers, cement and sand, it is better at resisting fire and insects than real wood and is not vulnerable to wood rot. It is particularly suitable for homes near the ocean, thanks to its ability to stand up well in salty and moist air. Although it is slightly more expensive than vinyl, it is a very cost-effective option overall.

Fiberglass

fiberglass sidingAnother siding material that can give homeowners the look of wood without some of its drawbacks is fiberglass. One of its biggest advantages is its lightweight nature, which makes it easy for the structure of the home to maintain the siding. In addition, it is low maintenance and does not require regular caulking and painting to maintain its appearance.

It is also a very versatile option that is available in a range of colors. Many types of fiberglass siding have an acrylic finish that lasts longer than the paint found on other types of siding. In addition, one of its main components is sand, a sustainable material, making this an environmentally friendly option.

Wood

For homeowners with a bigger budget and a greater inclination toward carrying out proper maintenance, it is hard to resist the old-world charm of authentic wood siding. It is particularly suited to older homes that are looking to retain their classic appearance. However, it looks good on traditional and modern homes alike.

Wood siding can be painted or stained to achieve the homeowner’s desired look, although this will require retouching every few years.

Stucco

cute stucco houseStucco siding is available in a broad range of textures and materials. While traditional stucco is made of lime, cement and sand, there is also a synthetic version available. Stucco is revered for its extreme durability; it can last for as long as 100 years with very little maintenance. In addition, stucco is easy to repair when it is damaged as the spot can be fixed instead of replacing the entire facade.

The main drawback of stucco is the possibility of it cracking if the home’s foundation shifts, allowing moisture to make its way behind the material.

With such a broad range of choices available, homeowners should not have much trouble finding a siding material that is suitable to the Northern Virginia climate while providing their home with the look they desire.

Get In Touch With The Northern Virginia Siding Professionals

Whether you are looking to update the siding on an aging home or customize the appearance of a new house, get in touch with the Northern Virginia siding professionals at Adelphia Exteriors. Our team can help you determine the best siding option for your needs and install it at a reasonable price.

Common Roof Replacement Problems To Be Prepared For

roofing tiles with open skylightMany homeowners looking to save money on a roof replacement may be tempted to hire subpar contractors or even attempt the work on their own. However, this could put the entire house at risk as roofs are highly vulnerable to the elements.

Installing a roof requires precision, skill, experience and the right equipment. Here is a look at some of the problems that can arise due to faulty roof replacement work.

Leaks

One of the most obvious signs of roof trouble is a leak. Many people believe that small leaks are harmless and may even go away over time, but these leaks often have a way of getting worse surprisingly quickly and should never be ignored. Any amount of moisture that is able to seep into the layers of the roof will eventually lead to mold and rot.

Some of the causes of roof leaks can be attributed to poor installation practices, such as nails being incorrectly placed in shingles and improperly installed flashing. Other potential causes are missing or damaged shingles, broken skylights, punctures from tree branches, and ice dams.

Unfortunately, it can be very difficult to detect small leaks and they can cause damage for years before they become noticeable. Regular roof inspections from professional roofing contractors can help prolong the life of a roof replacement and avoid the need for expensive repairs.

Damaged Flashing

Flashing around the roof keeps any awkward or protruding areas sealed to protect them from leaks and water damage. A home may have flashing installed on areas around skylights, venting pipes, heating and cooling systems, and chimneys located in the roof.

However, if flashing is not properly installed and secured, it can easily run into trouble. Once flashing is damaged, the seams sealing the roof and any structures protruding from it will open up and can lead to serious problems.

Clogged Gutters

damaged roof guttersAlthough many people do not associate clogged gutters with roof problems, experts warn that clogged gutters can lead to expensive damage over time. When gutters are clogged for extended periods, water will back up into the roofing system and eventually the home, leading to leaks, rot and structural damage.

A roofing replacement must be installed in such a way that it does not compromise the gutters’ ability to do their job or raise their risk of clogging.

Snow and Ice Damage

Ice dams can be a major problem in the winter. When snow accumulates on the roof and undergoes repeated freeze-thaw cycles, it can put the roof at serious risk. Water can end up under the shingles, particularly if they have not been installed properly. Once the temperatures drop again, the water will refreeze. This can push shingles or flashing up and expose the roof underneath, creating large sheaths of ice and dangerous icicles that can compromise the home’s structural support.

Shrinkage

All types of roofing materials are vulnerable to shrinkage to some extent, but roofs with coverings such as synthetic rubber membranes have a particularly high risk. When the material shrinks and pulls from all directions, the extra pressure creates problems.

Roof shrinkage can manifest as tears or cracking in the shingles or flashing. A professional installation and regular inspections and maintenance can prevent shrinkage from occurring on roofs.

Shingle Damage

roof shingles damagedOne of the most common roofing problems that homeowners experience is damaged shingles. There are many ways that shingles can sustain damage, from heavy storms and winds to sun exposure, debris and aging.

Although damaged shingles may seem like mainly an aesthetic concern, they leave the roof exposed and, as a result, more vulnerable to damage. Although there is not much that homeowners can do to protect their shingles from damaging storms, a properly installed roof will fare far better in inclement weather than DIY roof replacements.

Standing Water

Another problematic roof issue is standing or pooled water. This may occur when the roof starts to sink in certain areas and is most commonly found on flat roofs. Roofs must be installed carefully to ensure that water will be able to completely drain off of them. Otherwise, standing water can create issues such as mildew, algae, mold and rot. It can also seep into the home’s support system over time and lead to structural damages that could put the home’s overall stability at risk.

Too Many Layers

man removing roof layerSome homeowners may choose to cut costs by installing a new layer of asphalt roofing over an old one rather than installing an entirely new roof. However, once there are more than two layers of roofing on a home, it will not only be in violation of most building codes, but it also is very dangerous as it can exceed the load-bearing threshold of the framing.

It may also be uneven and poorly anchored to the sheeting of the roof, which can pose a long list of problems. Reputable roofing contractors will never offer to exceed two layers of roofing.

Talk To The Professional Roof Replacement Team At Adelphia Exteriors

A roof replacement is a major home improvement project that can lead to serious problems when performed incorrectly. Protect your investment in your home with the professional Virginia roof replacement services offered by Adelphia Exteriors.

How To Prepare For Window Replacement

worker installing new windowAfter new windows have been selected and a date has been set for window replacement, eager homeowners may wonder what they can do to ensure the project runs as smoothly as possible.

Here is a look at the steps homeowners can take to prepare their home for a successful window replacement project.

Remove Fragile Items From The Work Area

Before the window replacement contractors arrive, it is a good idea to clear the work area of anything that is delicate, fragile or irreplaceable. Although good contractors will do their best to avoid causing damage to objects in the home, removing these items can make their work easier.

In addition to removing anything that is hanging on the walls, it is important to put away any items that are placed on floating shelves. Homeowners should also remove their window treatments before the work gets underway.

Cover The Furniture

Dust is often created during window replacement projects, so homeowners are advised to cover their furniture using blankets or sheets and move it at least four feet away from the window openings that the contractors will be working on. Although some crews may bring their own coverings to protect furniture, an extra layer of protection never hurts.

Deactivate Alarm Systems

camera installed over home windowIf any window alarm systems are connected to the fixture, it is important to deactivate them before the work gets underway to avoid false alarms or damage to the system itself.

It may be necessary to have a professional from the home security company disconnect the alarms and then reconnect them once the new windows have been installed.

Trim Landscaping

Crews will need at least two feet of clearance around the windows in order to work comfortably, so be sure to trim any bushes, trees or shrubs that could get in their way. If the windows being installed are of the bay or bow variety, the contractors will need even more room to work. Be sure to ask them about their space needs for these types of projects.

Set Up A Workspace For Installers

The window replacement contractors will need a workspace to set up their equipment. Choose a spot where they will have access to an electrical outlet. If there is a possibility that it could rain while they are carrying out the work, it may be a good idea to clear some space for the crew in the garage.

Keep Children And Pets Out Of The Way

cat hanging on old windowFor the safety of the window replacement crew as well as the family, homeowners should restrict access to the work area throughout the installation. Children and pets should be kept out of the work area at all times.

Should someone in the family need to access something where work is in progress, ask the crew to stop working temporarily so that the item can be retrieved safely. Keep in mind that the work will be finished sooner if interruptions are kept to a minimum.

Understand The Window Replacement Process

It is also useful to know what to expect when the crew arrives to begin the work. On the first day, homeowners should be prepared to show them where they should park and set up their equipment. As the crew sets up, the crew lead may walk through the entire project with the homeowner and check that all of the window openings and units align with the work order.

If something does not match up with the plan, the installer will work to resolve the problem. They may ask if you wish to save the old windows, trim or window treatments. This is also a good time to mention which entrance you prefer crew members use when entering and exiting the home.

It is not necessary to be present during the entire project, but if you do need to leave the home, be sure to let the crew lead know about your plans and exchange phone numbers in case an unexpected incident arises during the installation process.

You will also be asked to set up a time for a final walkthrough based on the estimated completion of the project, although this may change if the project’s timeline is delayed for some reason.

worker replaces old shuttered windows with thermally broken windowsDuring the walkthrough, the crew lead will demonstrate how to operate each window. Make sure you fully understand how to use the windows and are happy with the quality of the work before they leave. This is also a good moment to ask any final installation questions and point out areas of concern.

A good window installation crew will cover their work area in order to protect your space and clean up after themselves once they are finished. They should also haul away the old windows.

Discuss Your Project With The Experienced Window Replacement Contractors

If you are looking for professional window installation or replacement services in the Northern Virginia area, get in touch with the experienced window replacement and installation contractors at Adelphia Exteriors.

What To Expect During A Siding Replacement Project

man installing new sidingFew home improvement projects have the power to dramatically transform the appearance of a house the way that new siding can. Although a siding replacement project can be a significant investment, it pays off for homeowners in terms of greater energy savings and increased curb appeal.

Although no two siding jobs are exactly the same, most projects will have several crucial elements in common. Here is a closer look at what the siding replacement process entails:

Preparation

A little bit of preparation can go a long way toward speeding up siding work and keeping the property safe while construction is being carried out.

First, it is a good idea to move anything that could block access to exterior walls, such as patio furniture or firewood. This means the crew will be able to start working right away when they arrive.

Any delicate shrubbery should be wrapped in a landscaping canvas to prevent damage while cutting the grass shorter can make it easier for the crew to find nails and other debris that they drop while working. The siding crew will need access to power outlets for tools, so make sure a clear outlet is available for them.

You also need to prepare the inside of your home for the project. Keep in mind that siding removal and installation may cause the walls to shake, so it is advisable to remove items hanging on walls or leaning against them, as well as delicate items on shelves that could fall.

Be aware that construction can be loud, so it may be worth making alternate arrangements for those who work from home or have pets that are sensitive to loud noises.

Prior To Construction

homeowner installs siding to his homeBefore the project begins, a dumpster and the new siding will be delivered to the home. These items may arrive a couple of days before the crew begins. A permit may be required for the dumpster, so be sure to find out if the contractor will be handling this aspect.

It is also useful to discuss the placement of the dumpster beforehand to avoid blocking access to the garage or parking spaces. Keep in mind that the crew will prefer to have the dumpster as close to the house as possible without posing an inconvenience.

If there are concerns about damaging the driveway due to the weight of the dumpster, wood can be placed under its pressure points for protection.

Siding Removal Work

Once the crew has arrived, they will take a look at the property and determine the best place to set up their workstations. Then, work will get underway to remove the home’s existing siding. The crew may stick to one side of the house at a time to avoid leaving too many walls exposed to the weather at once. Larger crews, however, might remove all of the siding at once and then focus on installing the new siding.

A good crew will tidy up as they go along and carry out a bigger cleaning at the end of each day. Despite their best efforts to control debris, siding replacement projects tend to be messy, so it is best to proceed as though there could be nails or other hazards on the ground and wear appropriate shoes when walking in the yard during construction.

If the crew needs to leave scaffolding in place overnight, keep an eye on children and others in the house or neighborhood to prevent accidents.

Unexpected Issues

Once the old siding has been removed, contractors may spot unexpected issues that were not apparent when the siding was in place. If they run into any type of problem, they will communicate it to the homeowner and work together to find a good solution.

New Siding Installation

Once the siding has been removed from the home and any necessary repairs have been made, the home’s weather-resistant barrier may also be replaced. If the home does not currently have such a barrier, one may be installed prior to installing the new siding. These barriers provide the home with water resistance and breathability.

workers removing siding from old houseThe amount of time a siding installation project takes varies depending on the type of siding and the size of the home. However, a typical tear-off and siding installation job can take one to two weeks.

Siding that needs to be painted can prolong the project, as can unexpected repairs. The weather may also be a factor, and there could be some downtime outside of the contractor’s control while waiting for inspections.

Get In Touch With The Siding Professionals At Adelphia Exteriors

Whether you want to improve your home’s appearance or replace aging siding, the Northern Virginia siding installation and replacement contractors at Adelphia Exteriors have the right experience and equipment to carry out the work efficiently and professionally. Get in touch today for a free siding evaluation.

How To Choose Your Roofing Contractor

woman architect checking blueprints against wooden roof framing of modern farmhouseA roof is a critically important part of a home. Not only does it provide the home with protection and structural integrity, but it also plays a significant role in the home’s value. As a result, roofing is one of the biggest and costliest home improvement projects. Finding a high-quality roofing contractor who can be trusted with this important job is essential.

Here are some tips for choosing the right roofing contractor:

Get A Referral

One good method of finding a dependable roofing contractor is asking friends and neighbors for referrals. The best people to ask are those who have had roofing work carried out more recently. Be sure to ask them if they were happy with the work and would work with the contractor again.

For those who do not know anyone personally who has recently had roofing work done, other good sources of potential referrals are lumberyards and hardware stores.

Research Potential Roofing Contractors

After identifying three or more qualified roofers, the next step should be investigating each name on the list. Homeowners should never hire a roofer before checking whether they have proper licensing in the state and confirming it is up to date. Likewise, they must have valid workers’ compensation and liability insurance.

Then, reach out to the Better Business Bureau and the local Chamber of Commerce to find out if there have been any complaints. Contractor review sites online can also provide valuable insight.

Meet With The Candidates

resident engineer holding yellow safety helmet at new home building under construction siteAfter narrowing down the field, ask the prospective contractors to come and see the roof and discuss the job in person. They should explain the amount of work that needs to be done and the roofing materials they intend to use, along with the amount of time and labor they expect the job to take.

During this in-person interview, observe the contractor and ensure that they are professional and knowledgeable. Ask a lot of questions, and steer clear of those who do not answer patiently. Be sure to ask for a list of references before they leave.

Check Their References

Reach out to the references provided by the contractor to find out whether they had a positive experience. Some good questions to ask include:

  • Was the contractor professional?
  • Did they stay on budget?
  • Were there any delays, and if so, how were they handled?
  • Has the roof encountered any problems?
  • Did they clean up properly after completing the work?

Agree On A Timeline

engineer inspecting metal roofing work for industrial concept with copy spaceWhether it is a quick fix or a longer roof replacement job, it is important to map out a timeline so all parties know what to expect. Delays can happen and may be out of the contractor’s control, but it is useful to have a rough timeline.

Be sure to discuss milestones and estimated completion dates, along with any prep work that will be needed prior to installing the roof, such as ordering materials or cleaning.

Homeowners should also ask if there are any days during the project when they will need to be at home, such as providing access to the attic. In addition, find out when you can schedule a final run-through to ensure the work has been carried out satisfactorily.

Get Everything In Writing

Make sure to get a signed contract that details every aspect of the work before beginning. This contract should cover safety procedures as well as liability and workers compensation insurance. In addition to the payment amounts and schedule, it should detail matters such as cleanup. From estimates to timelines, it is essential to have paperwork that can be referenced if any issues arise.

Include A Strategy For Cleanup

Roofing jobs can be quite messy, so it is important to look for a contractor who includes a clear cleanup strategy. Leftover debris, asphalt, and small roofing nails can be very dangerous for families and pets if they are left strewn around the yard after the work has been completed. A good cleanup strategy will include both a final sweep-through of the roof and property and an explanation of how the work site will be tidied up each day.

Decide Carefully

handyman using nail gun to install shingle to repair roofAlthough it may be tempting to go with the cheapest bid, it is important to keep in mind that better-quality contractors often charge higher prices. It can be difficult to compare prices as different contractors may use different types of materials.

Roofing is not an area where corners should be cut, so it may be worth spending a little extra to have the peace of mind that comes from hiring professionals. Factors such as working style, experience and availability should be weighed alongside the price.

Reach Out To The Northern Virginia Roofing Contractors

For high-quality residential roof replacement and installation services, get in touch with Adelphia Exteriors. Our experienced Northern Virginia roofing contractors carry out every job safely, efficiently and professionally.