6371 Rolling Mill Place, Suite 101, Springfield, VA 22152

Adelphia Exteriors

Northern VA Roofing, Siding & Window Contractors

4 Siding Ideas For Colonial Homes

home with dark color siding installedColonial-style homes are one of the top architectural designs in the U.S., particularly along the East Coast, where they have been popular ever since their first appearance in the 1700s around the time of the nation’s birth. It is a style that immediately stands out, with its centered front door and symmetrical window arrangement.

In fact, windows are considered one of the main distinguishing design elements of Colonial homes. Siding also plays a major role in the appearance of Colonial homes. Some of the first Colonial homes built in New England featured wood siding, and it continues to be one of the top choices for homes in this style.

However, Colonial homes began to adapt in the 1800s, reflecting the influences of their builders and the local geography. For example, Virginia homes often featured brick siding, while Spanish Colonials in California were known for adobe exteriors.

Top Siding Ideas For Colonial Homes

These days, there are plenty of great siding choices for remodeling your Colonial home or building a new home in this style. Here is a look at four siding ideas for Colonial homes.

1. Wood Siding

beautiful home with wood sidingWood siding has been associated with Colonial homes since the days of the Colonists, although many modern homeowners use other materials that provide a similar appearance. For those who are willing to carry out the proper maintenance, however, wood siding remains an excellent choice that gives Colonial homes an unmatched charm.

Pine and cedar are two main species of wood that are used in exterior siding. All species need a protective finish and regular inspection and repair of cracks or damage to the home’s siding. The wood will typically need to be refinished every four to six years.

Wood can be easily painted in whatever color the homeowner desires, with white being especially popular for Colonial homes. In some areas, local regulations specify that wood siding must also be treated with fire-retardant chemicals.

Many people choose primed wood siding thanks to its wide availability, but it is prone to weather-related damage. This means that it may be a good choice in places like Virginia where the climate is moderate, but it is not suited to areas prone to extreme weather conditions.

2. Engineered Wood Siding

Northern Virginia siding replacement contractor installing engineered wood sidingEngineered wood is another good choice for Colonial homes, particularly for those homeowners who like the appearance of real wood but have reservations about the maintenance involved and its durability. Also known as composite or manufactured wood siding, it is made using a resin composite material that is more resistant to fungal decay and infestations than natural wood.

It can be made in a variety of colors, finishes and textures to mimic the appearance of wood siding and suit a Colonial home’s aesthetics. When cared for properly, it can last for anywhere from 20 to 30 years, and it should only need a fresh coat of paint around every 10 years. However, as a relatively new product, the exact longevity of this material is not known.

3. Brick Siding

Brick siding is another good choice for those seeking an authentic Colonial look. It is known for its remarkable durability. Several types of brick siding are available, including traditional brick siding. This siding is heavy, so the concrete foundation walls may have a small step cast into them to support the brick. Alternatively, it can be supported by a heavy iron angle mounted to the foundation wall.

brick siding installationBrick veneer is a modern brick siding that boasts a similar look to solid brick construction, with clay bricks stacked and layers of mortar spread in between them. There are also varieties known as “thin brick” that are made of concrete. This siding is installed by gluing the “bricks” to the house using adhesive and then filling the gaps between the bricks with grout to make them look like structural mortar joints.

Traditional mortared brick siding can last hundreds of years without much maintenance or signs of wear, especially if it is unpainted. Some areas of crumbled mortar may occasionally need to be repaired.

4. Vinyl Siding

Vinyl siding may not be a traditional material for Colonial homes, but its availability and low price have made it a favored option among those who wish to get the look of wood on their Colonial-style home but are working with a modest budget.

beautiful house with vinyl sidingThis type of siding is strong, long-lasting and easy to install. It also comes in a wide variety of styles and colors. Moreover, because the color is incorporated into the material, scratches and dings will not be obvious. It is also a very low-maintenance material that only requires occasional cleaning with a brush and hose. Vinyl siding is one of many growing favorite siding ideas for colonial homes.

Discuss Your Siding Replacement Project With Adelphia Exteriors

To learn more about siding options for Colonial homes, reach out to the experienced siding replacement contractors at Adelphia Exteriors. Our team of Northern Virginia siding contractors can help you choose the right siding to suit the style of your home as well as your budget.


Additional Resources For Colonial Homes

Popular Roofing Materials For Colonial Homes

colonial style home during bright sunny dayColonial homes have long been one of the most popular styles for American houses, and part of the reason for their enduring appeal is the many different customization options homeowners have.

The layout of the home and the positioning of its windows are the main hallmarks of the style, but there are plenty of different choices when it comes to colors and materials that people can choose to make their house stand out while retaining this classic style.

Top Roofing Materials To Consider For Colonial-Style Homes

One area where people with Colonial homes have a lot of flexibility are roofing materials. Most of the roofs found in the days of the colonists were made of slate, wood or clay tile. Wooden roofs were one of the most popular types during the Colonial period because it was easier to source and transport wood at the time, but this has long since fallen out of favor due to fire concerns.

Records show that the homes in the Jamestown settlement in Virginia had slate and clay in their roofs, and these materials may well have been chosen, at least in part, for their resistance to fire. Advancements in shipping in the 19th century helped the popularity of slate as a roofing material grow, and metal roofing started to make its mark not long afterward.

These days, there are so many different modern materials that work well with this style of home, which means every homeowner should be able to find something that is aesthetically pleasing and will work with their budget. Outlined below are some of the best roofing materials for Colonial-style homes.

Slate Roofs

slate roof tileSlate was a popular roofing material for the colonists, and it remains a top choice today. Its aesthetic works well with all different types of Colonial homes, which means it is hard to go wrong when you choose slate roofing.

In addition to being fire- and water-resistant, modern slate roofs have UV inhibitors that stop the sun’s rays from damaging them. They can last for up to 100 years and do not require very much maintenance. The main drawback of slate roofs is the fact that natural slate is very heavy, with tiles weighing as much as 15 pounds per square foot.

This can place a significant strain on the structure of a home. Therefore, care must be taken to ensure the home can support the weight of a slate roof prior to installing it. If not, the home may need to be retrofitted or reframed, which can add on to the cost of the project.

Clay Tile

man installing clay tile on the roofAnother material that has long been associated with Colonial roofs is clay tile. Prepared by baking molded clay, these tiles are available in a wide range of shades, although most homeowners choose something from the terra cotta range. They’re also highly insulating.

Like slate, this long-lasting and fire-resistant material is quite heavy, and some homes may need additional roof framing prior to installation. However, many homeowners feel it is worth the effort and expense to enjoy the curb appeal that clay tiles provide to a Colonial home. They look especially beautiful on Spanish Colonial homes.

Copper Roofs

copper roof installedFor homeowners who are seeking a high-end aesthetic, copper is the material of choice. Unlike slate and clay tiles, copper roofing is very lightweight, which means it is easy to install and there is no need to worry about modifying an existing roof to support its weight.

With a life expectancy of more than 50 years with regular care and maintenance and excellent weather and fire resistance, it can provide great value. It’s also considered environmentally friendly as the material is both natural and recyclable. Although copper roofing is largely chosen for its appearance, it is worth noting that it is a very energy-efficient roofing material that reflects the sun’s heat and can help with climate control throughout the year, potentially keeping utility costs down.

It works well on irregular and uneven roof shapes thanks to its flexibility. Copper roofs can also be customized, with roofing fixtures like dormers, spires and weathervanes helping a home stand out.

Asphalt Shingles

Close up view on asphalt shingles on a roof with hammer,nails and stationery knife.For budget-minded homeowners, asphalt shingles are a great choice. In addition to being more affordable than other roofing types, they are available in many different styles and colors so homeowners can get exactly what they want, while their traditional style always works well with the look of Colonial homes.

They do not last as long as slate or clay, but some homeowners view this as a positive as replacing the shingles gives them a chance to change up the look of their home’s exterior from time to time.

Reach Out To The Northern Virginia Roofing Contractors

At Adelphia Exteriors, our team of residential roof replacement and roofing installation contractors are well-trained and prepared to carry out roofing services safely, effectively and affordably. Get in touch today for help choosing the right roof to complement your home’s style and stand up to the Northern Virginia weather.

Renovating a Colonial Home with Siding

vinyl siding on a new homeColonial homes have a classic appeal, and although the roots of this style can be traced to the Colonists in the 1600s, the siding on these homes tends to have a much shorter history. If the siding on your Colonial home has seen better days or you are ready to change its appearance, here is a look at what you should consider when giving it an update.

The Potential to Transform

Replacing a home’s siding has the power to transform its appearance in a way that very few other renovations can. In fact, buyers tend to pay 7% more, on average, for a home that has great curb appeal compared to one with a neglected exterior, making this one of the top projects for those who are looking to sell their home.

Buyers form an opinion of the house before they ever step inside, so it’s a great way to make that first impression as strong as possible.

A siding replacement project often proves to be a good investment. Although some types of siding can be on the expensive side, the 2022 Remodeling Impact Report from the National Association of the Remodeling Industry and the National Association of Realtors found that with two popular siding options, vinyl and fiber cement, homeowners can recover 82 and 86 percent of their investment, respectively.

Many homeowners often note further savings due to the lower utility bills that arise from the greater energy efficiency of new siding.

How Can You Tell When Your Siding Needs to Be Replaced?

old damaged siding of homeSiding is usually made from sturdy materials, but its constant exposure to a variety of harsh elements, from direct sunlight and heat to strong winds and freezing temperatures, means it will not last forever.

Even general wear and tear can degrade it to the point that it makes your home vulnerable to mold, structural issues, and deteriorating walls. If you notice any of these signs, it may be time to replace your siding:

  • Broken sections
  • Cracks, chips, or holes in siding
  • Faded color on siding panels
  • Missing, loose, or warped panels
  • Moisture inside the home
  • Higher energy bills
  • Bubbling paint on siding
  • Mold or mildew

Good Types of Siding for Colonial Homes

There are many types of siding that are suitable for Colonial homes, and your choice will largely depend on your budget and desired aesthetic. Here is a look at some of the best choices.

Brick Siding

Brick siding is one of the most common options for Colonial-style homes. In addition to providing them with a classic look, it also boasts incredible durability, which means your home can enjoy a beautiful look for many decades.

Although brick siding has been falling out of favor slightly in recent years, it remains popular among those with Colonial homes, especially those from the 19th century onward, who are seeking the most authentic look possible.

Wood Siding

man installing wood sidingAnother popular choice for Colonial-style homes is wood siding. Primed wood siding is easily available and can be surprisingly durable when maintained properly. However, if it is not updated periodically, its paint is prone to fading.

This type of siding is also vulnerable to weather-related damage, so it is not a good choice in places that experience extreme weather conditions.

Stone Siding

Stone siding works well with Colonial-style homes, and many homeowners opt for stone veneer siding, which is more lightweight than traditional stone and easier to add to existing homes.

Stone siding does cost considerably more than brick, wood and stucco. However, it often lasts for the home’s entire lifetime, which means it provides a good return on investment in the long run.

Stucco Siding

Stucco may not be the first material that comes to mind when thinking of most Colonial homes, but it can actually be applied in a way that suits this aesthetic. For Spanish Colonial homes, it is the top choice of siding material.

Affordable, long-lasting and highly weather-resistant, stucco mimics the appearance of the abode that was used by Spanish colonists on their California homes. However, it is now popular throughout the country.

This combination of cement, sand, lime and water is easy to customize with paint, making it ideal for homeowners who are seeking a specific color and those who wish to change their home’s color frequently.

Vinyl Siding

professionally finished vinyl siding on a homeAlthough vinyl siding is not found on traditional Colonial homes, some homeowners are choosing it for renovations thanks to its affordability and customization options. Vinyl siding can be created to look much like primed wood, giving homeowners the traditional look they want at a fraction of the price.

Discuss Your Siding Project with Adelphia Exteriors

For answers to your questions about siding options for Colonial homes, get in touch with the experienced Northern Virginia siding contractors at Adelphia Exteriors. Our team can help you make informed decisions about the best way to renovate your Colonial home with siding.

What Are Colonial-Style Windows?

red color home with multiple windowsThe Colonial home is a very popular style of home in the U.S. that has stood the test of time. First emerging during the Colonial period in the 1600s to the mid-1700s, this English-inspired style was very popular in New England as well as the Southern U.S. After falling out of fashion around the time of the American Revolution, it experienced a strong revival that still lasts to this day.

There are a few things that set Colonial homes apart. They are typically salt-box-style homes with two or three stories that feature symmetrical architecture; steep, side-gabled roofs; a front door in the center of the home with a window above it; and decorative shutters.

One of its most defining characteristics, however, is its windows. Colonial homes do not stick with any single specific style of window. Instead, windows are considered to be Colonial style based more on their arrangement and other features.

Colonial-style windows are usually placed symmetrically on the home’s front façade on either side of the front door, and they often feature grids. Here is a closer look at some specific Colonial-style windows that are popular in modern homes.

Double-Hung Windows

Double-hung windows are one of the most popular choices for Colonial homes as they have the most traditional appearance. It may be difficult to tell at first glance whether a window is double-hung or single-hung, but if both the top and bottom sections of the window can be opened, it is a double-hung window.

double hung windowThese windows are favored for their enhanced airflow. Being able to open both sashes partway or choosing to open just the top or the bottom gives homeowners many options when it comes to optimizing the circulation of air in the home according to wind direction and other weather conditions.

Opening the bottom sash enables cool air to enter the room while opening the top sash allows warmer air that has risen to the top of the room to escape.

They are also easier to clean than other varieties because they tilt into the home’s interior. Single-hung windows, in contrast, can only tilt in the bottom sash, which means the top sash must be cleaned from outside of the home. This is particularly challenging on upper floors and can also add to your expense when using the services of professional cleaning companies.

Single-Hung Windows

Although double-hung windows have many positive attributes, they do tend to be expensive. A single-hung window can cost as much as 20% less than its double-hung counterpart. Therefore, this type of window is a great choice for those with a Colonial home who do not have room in the budget for double-hung windows.

They have a very similar exterior appearance and are nearly indistinguishable from passersby, especially when they are closed. They offer a timeless style and are very energy-efficient.

Bay Windows

bay windows with dark backgroundAnother popular window choice for Colonial homes is the bay window. Bay windows are usually made up of a center picture window that does not open but allows a considerable amount of light to flood into the home. It is flanked by double-hung or casement windows on either side in keeping with the symmetrical appearance that is the hallmark of Colonial-style homes.

The three windows that make up a bay window are joined at an angle and extend past the exterior wall for a very elegant architectural element that adds charm and plenty of light.

Because these windows do add a small amount of extra square footage to the home, some homeowners choose to make the most of the extra space by building seats or benches into the nook to provide a cozy place to sit and enjoy the view.

Grids

Regardless of the type of window you choose for your Colonial-style home, you will likely want to incorporate grids for a traditional appearance. Standard grids emphasize the symmetry of this style and make the home appear geometrically proportional.

Some of the grid patterns that are commonly chosen for this style of home are 6 over 6, 9 over 9, and 12 over 12; the grid pattern on double-hung windows will usually be the same on both sashes.

grid windows styleThese grids once served a chiefly functional purpose, holding multi-paned windows together, so they could be shipped more easily without fear of breakage. Modern window grids, which are sometimes referred to as muntins or grilles, are mostly decorative.

They are often placed between the glass to make it easier to clean and provide a smoother surface, but it is still possible to order windows that have the grid placed outside of the glass. Some grids are placed on the side of the glass facing inside the home and can be removed for cleaning.

Reach Out to the Experienced Northern Virginia Window Contractors

Your windows are an important feature of your home from an aesthetic and functional standpoint, so it is important to choose high-quality windows that match your home’s style and are installed professionally to maximize energy efficiency and avoid problems.

Get in touch with Adelphia Exteriors. to learn more about our window installation and replacement services for your Colonial home in the Northern Virginia area.

What Kind of Roof Does a Colonial Home Have?

colonial home with new roofIf you own a Colonial-style home or would like to give your house this classic look, you may be focused largely on the windows and siding of the home. However, choosing a Colonial-style roof is just as important if you want to tie the look together.

Here is a look at what type of roof you should consider for your Colonial-style home.

What Is a Colonial Home?

Colonial architecture has its roots in the U.S. Colonial era. Its basic framework is simple and symmetrical, with homes featuring two or more stories, often with a central staircase that provides access to big, ground-floor rooms on either side.

Types of Colonial Roofs

Here is a look at some popular types of colonial roofs:

Slate Roofing

A slate roof is a great choice for a Colonial home. As a classic roofing material, it has been popular for hundreds of years and is considered a great match for the uniform styling of colonial homes. It can last for as long as 100 years and needs little in the way of repair and maintenance.

Fire- and water-resistant slate roofs contain UV inhibitors that can prevent damage from the sun’s rays. However, homeowners should keep in mind that natural slate tends to be quite heavy, so it is important to make sure the home is able to support the weight.

Copper Roofing

newly added copper roofAnother good roofing material for Colonial homes is copper, which creates an upscale aesthetic and is incredibly durable. Its light weight means that it is easy and quick to install and is not likely to require any modifications to the existing roof to support it.

It is also considered highly energy-efficient, helping indoor temperatures to remain stable throughout the year thanks to its ability to reflect the sun. This can help to reduce utility costs. For Colonial homes that need some extra character, unique ornamental metal designs such as steeples and weathervanes can be incorporated.

Clay Tiles

Tiles made of clay were often used as a roofing material for Spanish Colonial homes. Noncombustible and highly durable, they can last for 50 years or longer. However, like slate, they are very heavy, which means additional roof framing may be needed to make sure the structure is able to support the weight of the tiles. One benefit clay tiles have over those made of slate is the fact that they are available in lighter shades.

Concrete Tiles

concrete tiles roofConcrete tiles come in more shapes, textures and colors than most other roofing options, which means it is not difficult to find styles that will work well for Colonial homes.

They can help to create a more rustic-looking home, and they can last for 50 years or longer. They do not come with the weight issues that clay and slate roof tiles are known for, and they are also highly energy-efficient.

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are a very popular roofing material on account of their low price and ease of installation. They work well with most types of architectural styles, including Colonial homes, and offer greater durability than wooden shingles. Although their longevity varies by manufacturer, homeowners can expect to get around 15 to 30 years out of these shingles.

Other Factors to Consider

There are a few other factors to keep in mind when choosing roofing materials for your Colonial-style home. The first is the style of the neighborhood. If all the homes in your neighborhood feature a specific type of material on their roofs, consider going with the same material to fit in with the surrounding homes. There is a good chance you can find a suitable style in any material to complement your Colonial home.

colonial home architectureThe specific subtype of Colonial home you have will also dictate the materials you can use to some extent. For example, gambrel roofs, with their steeply pitched sides and almost level top, can be difficult to hang traditional shingles on and can place further stress on heavier materials like slate roof tiles.

Synthetic shingles are often a better choice for roofs of this style. With a classic gabled roof, cedar shake shingles are a more traditional choice.

It is also important to consider the weather where you live. While you may have your heart set on a specific roofing material on account of its aesthetics, you need to ensure you are choosing something that is also prepared to stand up to whatever weather challenges your region faces.

Finally, keep in mind that a roof is a long-term investment. Following a trend might seem like a good idea, but be sure to choose something that you can envision yourself being happy with for many years to come.

Reach Out to the Northern Virginia Roofing Contractors

If you are looking for residential roof replacement and installation services, get in touch with the experienced roofing contractors at Adelphia Exteriors to learn more about our services or request a free roof evaluation.

What Are The Best Windows For Colonial Style Homes?

clean and quaint american colonial houseIn a country that boasts an impressive range of home styles, it can be difficult for American homeowners to narrow down the architectural style of their homes. However, many homes fall under the broader category of Colonial homes.

This popular style has its roots in the Colonial era, with homes normally featuring two or three stories, wood facades and fireplaces. It is particularly popular in states like Virginia that have a strong Colonial history and abundance of historic homes.

Top Replacement Windows For Colonial Homes

When it comes to updating Colonial homes or building new homes in this style, it is important to get the key aspects of it right. One of the defining characteristics of a Colonial home is a centered front door with windows placed symmetrically on either side.

Although some of the subcategories of Colonial homes may feature different window arrangements, the style of a window in these homes remains important. Here is a look at the best windows to use in Colonial-style homes.

Small panes of glass are a defining characteristic of Colonial-style windows, but modern windows use bigger pieces of glass with decorative grids to get the same look without some of the drawbacks of small-paned windows.

For example, cleaning older Colonial windows can be complicated and tedious, while newer windows are much simpler and faster to clean. In addition, many homeowners like the look of a larger, smooth glass surface with grids placed inside of it.

Cape Cod Colonials

cape cod style houseThe Northeastern U.S. is full of attractive Cape Cod Colonials featuring gable-front dormers and a minimalist feel. These homes look good with casement windows because they mimic the appearance of classic double-hung windows.

Cottage-style windows are another good choice, with their top and lower sashes coming in varied heights. Many homeowners opt for white or lighter tones for Cape Cod Colonial windows.

Dutch Colonials

The Dutch Colonial style of home was originated by American settlers from the Netherlands in the mid-1600s to mid-1800s. Its most notable feature is a broad, double-pitched roof known as a gambrel roof with narrow windows in the roofline. For these windows, regular or dormer windows can be used.

For the other windows of a Dutch colonial style of home, double-hung varieties are a good choice because of their classic appearance and ease of opening. Because they can be opened simultaneously from the bottom up and top down, air can flow freely through the home to keep utility expenses down.

Georgian Colonials

georgian style homeGeorgian Colonials were originally built with respect for classical ideals such as the “golden ratio,” a mathematical ratio that can be found in nature and art. Known for balance, symmetry and graceful proportions, Georgian Colonials are square or rectangular and often feature a semi-circular transom window above the front door made of individual planes of glass radiating from a central point.

Choose sash windows for the windows lining the home’s front façade, and opt for those with a height that is 1.6 times the width to respect the “golden ratio.” While single-hung sash windows are very economical, double-hung sash windows can slide up or down for greater flexibility and ease of cleaning. For the dormer windows, casement windows are a good choice.

Spanish Colonials

Spanish Colonials got their style from the Spanish settlers who came to North America, which means they first came to prominence in places like California and Florida. However, their charming stucco walls and clay roof tiles can now be seen throughout the country.

Choose French casement windows that are narrow and tall with horizontal panes instead of vertical ones to accentuate homes of this style. To make it more authentic, be sure to choose a window frame and sash that is the same color as the trim and that contrasts with the stucco on the exterior of the home.

Colonial Revivals

colonial revival style homeThe Colonial Revival style dates back to the late 1800s and combines different aspects of several types of Colonial styles, predominantly Georgian Colonials. They often feature bay windows that are multi-paned and adorned with proportional shutters.

These bay windows should have muntins, while the home’s other windows should be double-hung windows featuring muntins. Some homeowners might choose casement windows with grilles that mimic the appearance of the more traditional double-hung windows.

Discuss Your Project With The Northern Virginia Window Contractors

There is no denying the charm and classic elegance of a Colonial home. If you are looking to upgrade the windows in your Colonial home, get in touch with Adelphia Exteriors.

Our team of Northern Virginia window replacement and

category iconWindows

Common Causes of Warped Vinyl Siding

wraped and damaged vinyl sidingVinyl siding is one of the most popular materials in the U.S., thanks to its durability, affordability and ease of maintenance. Properly installed vinyl can provide a home with an attractive exterior for many years, but the material is prone to warping.

Learn what can cause this common problem and how to spot signs of warping so you can address it before it gets worse.

Poor Panel Alignment

One common problem that can be encountered in vinyl siding installation is poor panel alignment. Vinyl siding needs space to move, so if the ends of the panels are placed too close to the corners of the house or the trim around windows, it could lead to waving over time.

The Siding Was Nailed Down Too Tightly

One of the top causes of warped vinyl siding is improper installation. This type of siding expands in high temperatures and contracts in colder temperatures, so it cannot be nailed down too tightly or it will not have adequate space to move from side to side as the weather changes.

One way of checking whether siding has been nailed down too tightly is by attempting to slide the panels horizontally using your hand. You should be able to move them by around half an inch; if not, there is not enough space for the panels to move with the temperatures and warping could occur.

Incorrect Nail Placement

warped vinyl siding in home backsideVinyl siding features oval-shaped openings in the top of the panels that are used for nailing them onto the home. However, nails must always be placed in the center of these slots. If they are placed too close to either end – even if they aren’t nailed in all the way – the panels will not have the room they need to expand and contract, leading to warping and buckling.

Siding professionals have the experience and skill needed to nail siding panels properly, so this is not normally an issue when contractors are hired. However, many homeowners who attempt to install vinyl siding themselves fail to place the nails correctly.

Low-Quality Siding

If you are noticing excessive warping in your vinyl siding throughout the home, it could be due to poor-quality siding. Cheap vinyl siding is often thin and may even have a wave in it before it is installed. This waviness will only get worse after the panels have been installed and are exposed to changing temperatures. It is worth investing in higher-quality, heat-resistant vinyl that can stand up to the elements and maintain its shape.

Siding That Is Too Dark

Because darker colors tend to attract more heat than lighter shades, dark siding may warp due to extra heat being drawn to it on account of its color. If you have recently painted the siding on your home a darker color and are noticing warping that was not there previously, consider repainting it to a lighter shade.

Heat Sources Close to the Home

home with vinyl siding in bright sunny dayIt is imperative to keep all sources of heat away from your home when you have vinyl siding. A grill that is placed too close to a home can cause the vinyl siding to warp in the area surrounding it. Be sure to position your grill further away from the siding to prevent this.

Another potential culprit is sunlight that is reflecting off of buildings nearby and causing the siding to get hot. If you can see a neighboring window reflecting the sun’s rays onto your home, consider asking the neighbor to place a screen on the window to avoid this problem. If that is not possible, you can plant trees or shrubs to block the light.

Changes in the Home’s Foundation

Although it is uncommon, warped siding can sometimes be caused by changes in the home’s foundation. As homes shift and settle over time, changes to the structure could lead to warping in the siding. Although this is difficult to prevent, it may be something to check for if you have ruled out other potential causes of warped siding.

Can Warped Vinyl Siding Be Fixed?

old vinyl siding warpedUnfortunately, there is no way to fix vinyl siding or return it to its original shape once it has been warped. However, if the damage is limited to only a few sections, it is possible to have them replaced without needing to replace the siding on the entire home.

However, if warping is a common occurrence, it may be time to consider switching to a lighter color or trying a different siding material that is more suitable to local conditions.

Contact the Northern Virginia Residential Siding Experts

The best way to ensure the longevity of your vinyl siding is to have it installed by experienced professionals. For high-quality siding replacement and installation services, get in touch with skilled siding contractors at Adelphia Exteriors today.

Do I Need a Permit for Roof Replacement?

roof shingles damagedWhen the roof on a house fails, it needs to be replaced as quickly as possible to protect the home from potential damage. Otherwise, water can get inside the home, extending from the attic down through the other floors and damaging everything in its path.

If your roof appears to be approaching the end of its useful life, it is time to start thinking about getting a roof replacement. In addition to choosing the materials and style of the roof, you will need to ensure the project adheres to local building regulations and is carried out by experienced professionals. Here is a look at everything you need to know when planning your roof replacement.

Permits for Roof Replacement

Before you can even begin a roof replacement, it is important to check with your municipality to find out if there are any regulations that must be followed. This will depend on the area in which you live.

In Falls Church and many other Virginia towns, a roof replacement is generally considered a type of routine work that does not require a permit when it is being performed on a single-family home. However, this only applies if you are not going to replace the rafters or a significant part of the decking. Keep in mind that if you will also be adding or removing walls as part of the project, even if they are not load-bearing, a permit will be required.

If a permit is required in your neighborhood, you must obtain it prior to beginning the project. If you are working with a roofing contractor, they may be able to arrange for the permit on your behalf. Your local municipality may have applications available online to facilitate the process.

If your neighborhood has a homeowners’ association, you will need to check with them to make sure there aren’t any procedures or requirements you must follow. In some neighborhoods that are overseen by a homeowners association, you might need to secure written approval prior to getting the roof replacement.

homeowner association conceptMost associations cannot stop a homeowner from replacing their roof, but there may be rules governing the materials, colors and styles that can be chosen. Failing to get permission could result in an association forcing the homeowner to redo the work in a way that complies with their rules, and there could be fines involved. It is best to look at the homeowners’ association’s covenants, conditions and restrictions before beginning the work.

In addition, many homeowners’ associations will require homeowners to hire qualified roofing contractors that are licensed and insured.

What Does a Roof Replacement Entail?

A roof replacement on a moderately sized home will only take a few days. First, all of the existing shingles will be removed and discarded. Then, the roofing contractors will make any minor repairs needed if the roof is in otherwise good condition. If necessary, bad wood that is revealed when the shingles are removed will be replaced with sheathing.

Next, they will install ice dam protection if the local weather conditions require it. Then, they will lay down asphalt roofing paper over the sheathing to create an inner barrier for protection against water making its way into the home. Metal drip edging will then be applied.

Finally, they will apply tab shingles, beginning at the roof’s eaves and working up toward the peak. Flashing will be applied anywhere that a leak could occur, such as around any skylights or chimneys. In some cases, a ridge vent might be installed to help with air circulation.

The contractors will then carry out a final cleanup and haul all of the debris away. The installation may need to be approved by a building inspector after it is complete.

Choosing a Roofing Company

roofing expert inspecting roofA roof replacement is an important job that should be entrusted to roofing professionals. The entire home could be at risk if the replacement is not performed well, so be sure to work with an experienced and reputable roofer with a proven track record of high-quality work.

Ensure your chosen roofer is licensed in your area and that their insurance is current. They should also be bonded, which means that a bonding company makes funds available to consumers in the event that they need to file a claim against the roofing company. Be wary of any company that is not willing to provide references or written estimates.

When deciding between roofers, look beyond price and consider availability and experience with the type of roofing material your project will involve, particularly if it is a less common material such as natural slate or solar shingles.

Discuss Your Project with the Northern Virginia Exterior Remodeling Contractors

Adelphia Exteriors offers a range of residential roof replacement services, from full replacements on aging roofs to partial replacements for damage or other issues. Reach out to our experienced roofing contractors to find out more about our services today.