Windows play a crucial role in the overall efficiency and aesthetics of your home. Not only do they allow natural light to enter your home, but they also help to keep the elements out. Over time, however, windows can become worn out and damaged, leading to a decrease in efficiency and an unsightly appearance. In this article, we’ll discuss the benefits of window replacement and why it may be time for you to upgrade your windows.
Improved Energy Efficiency
Increased Comfort
Enhanced Curb Appeal
Improved Security
Reduced Maintenance
In conclusion, window replacement can offer many benefits for homeowners. Not only can it improve energy efficiency and increase comfort, but it can also enhance your home’s curb appeal, improve security, and reduce maintenance. If you’re considering window replacement, it’s important to choose a reputable contractor who can help you select the right windows for your home and install them properly. Contact GreenCal Construction today for expert window replacement services and to schedule a consultation.
Your roof is one of the most important aspects of your home. It not only adds to the aesthetic value of your property, but it also provides protection from the elements. Over time, however, your roof may need repairs or even a complete replacement. In this article, we’ll discuss 10 signs that indicate it’s time for a roof repair or replacement.
Age of the Roof
The age of your roof is one of the biggest factors in determining whether it needs to be repaired or replaced. Most asphalt roofs have a lifespan of 20-25 years, while metal roofs can last 50 years or more. If your roof is approaching the end of its expected lifespan, it’s likely time for a replacement.
Cracked or Missing Shingles
Cracked or missing shingles are a clear sign that your roof needs attention. Shingles protect your roof from water and other elements, and when they’re damaged, they can no longer perform this function effectively. Cracked or missing shingles can be replaced, but if they’re widespread, a full replacement may be necessary.
Water Damage
Water damage is a serious problem that can lead to mold growth and structural damage. Signs of water damage include water stains on your ceiling or walls, peeling paint or wallpaper, and a musty odor. If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to have your roof inspected for leaks.
Sagging Roof
A sagging roof is a serious problem that requires immediate attention. This is usually caused by a problem with the roof’s support structure, such as rotting or damaged beams. A sagging roof can collapse, which is a safety hazard for you and your family.
Granules in Gutters
Asphalt shingles are coated with granules that help protect them from the sun’s UV rays. Over time, these granules can wear away and end up in your gutters. If you notice an excessive amount of granules in your gutters, it’s a sign that your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan.
Higher Energy Bills
If you notice that your energy bills are higher than usual, it could be a sign that your roof is not functioning properly. This is especially true if you’ve noticed any drafts or leaks in your home. A poorly functioning roof can cause your HVAC system to work harder, which can lead to higher energy bills.
Light Coming Through the Roof
If you can see sunlight coming through your roof, it’s a clear sign that there’s a problem. This could be due to missing or damaged shingles, or even a hole in the roof. Any opening in your roof is a potential entry point for water, which can cause serious damage.
Mold or Algae Growth
Mold or algae growth on your roof is a sign that your roof is retaining moisture. This can be caused by poor ventilation or a buildup of debris on your roof. Mold and algae can be harmful to your health, so it’s important to have them removed as soon as possible.
Damaged Flashing
Flashing is the material that seals the joints between your roof and other features, such as chimneys and vents. If the flashing is damaged or missing, water can seep in and cause damage. Damaged flashing can be replaced, but if it’s widespread, it may be time for a new roof.
Curling Shingles
Curling shingles are a sign that your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan. This is usually caused by weathering and can make your roof more susceptible to leaks and other problems.
In conclusion, your roof is an important investment that needs to be maintained and repaired as necessary. If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to have your roof inspected. Feel free to get your free quote here.
Your home’s exterior is the first thing people see when they drive by or come to visit, so it’s important to make sure it looks its best. One of the easiest and most effective ways to improve your home’s curb appeal is by giving it a fresh coat of paint. But with so many colors, finishes, and brands to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide on the right paint for your home.
One of the first things to consider when choosing exterior paint is the type of surface you’ll be painting. Different types of paint are designed for different surfaces, such as wood, stucco, brick, or metal. Make sure to select a paint that is specifically formulated for the surface of your home.
Next, think about the climate in your area. If you live in a hot and sunny region, look for paint with high levels of UV protection to keep your home from fading. If you live in a damp or humid area, choose paint with mildew-resistant properties to prevent mold and mildew from growing on your home.
Another important factor to consider is the finish of the paint. A glossy finish will make your home’s colors appear brighter and more vibrant, but it’s also more prone to chipping and peeling. A flat or matte finish is less reflective and more forgiving of imperfections, but it won’t be as shiny. A satin finish is a good middle ground, offering a slight shine with more durability than a glossy finish.
When it comes to color, the options are endless. You can choose a color that’s similar to your home’s existing color, or you can choose a completely new color to give your home a fresh new look. Keep in mind that darker colors will absorb more heat and may make your home feel warmer, while lighter colors will reflect more light and may keep your home cooler.
Finally, don’t forget to consider the brand of paint you’re using. Here at Greencal we are an authorized dealer of TexCote® COOLWALL® exterior coating, a revolutionary product that can help you keep your home cooler without having to constantly run your air conditioner. Unlike traditional exterior house paint, TexCote® COOLWALL® is specially formulated to reflect the sun’s heat rather than absorb it, which has been shown to lower exterior wall surface temperatures by as much as 40 degrees. TexCote® COOLWALL® consists of a thin primer that fuses together with a thick finish to form an impermeable and highly reflective moisture-proof barrier that, unlike exterior house paint, will never chip, flake, or peel.
When it comes to exterior home painting, it can be hard to know where to start. That’s where Greencal Constructions comes in. We offer exterior painting services that give your home a high-quality paint job that increases its market value. We have the knowledge and experience to help you choose the right paint for your home and provide you with a flawless finish.
Visit us to learn more about our services and to schedule a free estimate. With Greencal Constructions, you can trust that your home will be in good hands and will look its best.
Vinyl replacement windows are a popular choice for homeowners looking to improve the energy efficiency of their homes. Not only do they offer a cost-effective solution, but they also require little maintenance and are available in a variety of styles and colors to match any home’s design.
One of the biggest benefits of vinyl replacement windows is their energy efficiency. They are designed to keep heat in during the winter and out during the summer, which can help to lower your energy bills. This is achieved through the use of multiple panes of glass, which create a barrier to keep heat and cold out. The windows also have a low-emissivity (Low-E) coating that reflects heat back into the room, ensuring that your home stays at a comfortable temperature year-round.
Vinyl replacement windows are also designed to be airtight, which helps to keep drafts and leaks out of your home. This means that your home will be more comfortable, and your HVAC system will not have to work as hard to maintain the temperature you want. This can result in lower energy bills and a longer lifespan for your HVAC system.
Another benefit of vinyl replacement windows is that they are low maintenance. Unlike wood windows, which require regular painting and staining to protect them from the elements, vinyl windows are made to withstand the elements and require little to no maintenance. This means that you will not have to spend time or money on upkeep, which can save you money in the long run.
At Greencal Construction, we are committed to providing high-quality, energy-efficient replacement windows that will stand the test of time. We offer a wide range of vinyl replacement windows that are designed to improve the energy efficiency of your home. These windows are made with multiple panes of glass, which create a barrier to keep heat and cold out.
In addition to our energy-efficient windows, we also offer a wide range of styles and designs to choose from. Whether you live in a traditional home or a modern one, we have a window that will complement the design of your home. You can also choose from a variety of glass options, such as tinted, frosted, or even textured glass. This means that you can create a unique look for your home that will stand out from the rest.
At Greencal Construction, we are committed to providing high-quality products and excellent customer service. We ensure that all of our customers are completely satisfied with their new windows and that they are able to enjoy the benefits of their new windows for many years to come. If you’re thinking of replacing the windows in your home, consider Greencal Construction as your provider. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation and see how we can help you improve the energy efficiency of your home.
If you want to boost the appeal and aesthetic of your house and simultaneously make it more valuable, then an exterior home painting is just what the doctor ordered! In addition to jazzing things up on the outside, it will also protect your home from harmful elements such as rain, wind, mildew, and mold. By getting an exterior home painting done you’ll also be able to enhance its resale value in case you consider selling your house in the future. While all of this may sound lovely and whip you into renovation mode, let’s go over some 10 important things to consider and do before you get an exterior home painting.
1 – Weather conditions do matter
Imagine setting up the perfect date and time to get your exterior painted and having to cancel due to bad weather conditions. There goes the time you set aside and in a worse case extension of your contractor’s time to return and get the job done. An ideal weather condition for an exterior home painting is clear skies, sunny, and no rain whatsoever. Moisture and rain can be the worst enemy for the painting job!
2- Quality of the paint
Most people tend to wing it when it comes to choosing paint for their exterior or even walls and just choose something basic, however, that shouldn’t be the case for this. Invest well into purchasing high-quality paint. It doesn’t need to be overpriced-just research well and make sure you’re not being overcharged. Fortunately, there are plenty of affordable options on the market.
3 – Clean up the surface
If you despise chores and hate to clean up, well, we’re sorry to disappoint you but the surface of the home exterior must be cleaned before the painting job begins. This applies to cleaning any dirt, mildew, chalky residue, and grime as paint doesn’t adhere to rough surfaces. If this really stresses you out or doesn’t fit into your schedule then opt to hire a cleaner who will scrub and clean away the surface.
4 – Priming is key!
A great tip and key point to consider before painting your home exterior is using a primer, sand, and then applying the coat of colors you desire in order to achieve the perfect finish. A good coating of primer will help the paint adhere to the surface smooth and even last longer.
5 – Mix and match to create something perfect
It’s recommended to actually use a few different cans of paint ranging in the same color palette to achieve a unique shade.
6 – Protect other items
If there are any bushes, plants, furniture, or even the ground that have a chance of getting ruined by the paint, it is wise to fully cover these precious items to prevent any damage or loss.
7 – Take it from the top!
If you’re the one painting your home exterior then it’s highly crucial to remember that a perfect paint job is done starting from the top of the wall. Most people tend to start from the bottom but this will make your job a bit harder and even may turn out crooked or blotchy. Take slow, small steps, and use a ladder with caution. Nobody wants their paint job turned into an emergency.
8 – The use of proper tools
Many ask whether the right tool to use for painting your home exterior is a brush or roller, and to be quite honest, it really depends on the size and dimension of the wall. A roller is useful for wider and large surfaces, and brushes can be used for narrower surfaces.
9 – Choosing the ideal color
Everyone knows that all homeowners have their unique styles and preference when it comes to painting and designing their house, but sometimes your favorite color you worshiped as a child may not be the perfect shade for your home exterior. It’s crucial to consider a color that complements the look of your entire house and gives it a curb appeal.
10 – Seal the deal – apply a top coat
While applying a top coat to your home exterior painting, remember that less is more. Too many layers of top coat can result in paint flaking off through the years.
Let’s recap!
While there is probably a whole lot more to learn about the proper way to paint your home exterior, these are the top ten things to consider before you start painting away. Most importantly, make sure you put your heart and soul into the process if you’re going to be the one doing the paint job. Doing a job passionately makes the entire experience itself something to enjoy and even remember with a smile.
It can be tough and time-consuming when it comes to choosing the best roofing option that works best for your house. And along with all the research you do and the information you gather, you must also consider the best roofing options that work best for the southern California climate. A lot of the information can be quite overwhelming and stressful, but fear no more as this article will break down the 5 best roofing options to consider for your house.
Option 1 – Asphalt Shingle Roof
In terms of low budget and popularity, your best bet in choosing a roofing material is the asphalt shingle since it’s affordable and offers a variety of shingles to choose from. It all comes down to your budget and how you want your roof to look. Asphalt shingles can either be 3-tab, dimensional, or luxury. Most people tend to opt for dimensional shingles today as well as luxury-style shingles which do cost more than the 3-tab.
Option 2 – Standing seam metal roof
Initially, there are two types of metal roofs but a standing seam metal roof is recommended for residential roofing in Southern California. A standing seam metal roof is a series of metal panels that are locked together at the seams or seamed mechanically. When the metal heats up, it allows for the metal panels to expand and contract freely. Metal roofs are versatile, meaning you can get it as a full roof system and add a standing seam metal roof accent to the asphalt roof replacement for a covered porch, dormers, etc.
Option 3 – Cedar Shake Roof
A premium roof system made of natural wood- cedar is considered to be an aesthetically pleasing roofing material. It is literally made from cedar trees with the actual shingles being cut into 2-foot sections and hand-split or sawed into a tapered thickness. A downside to this aesthetic roofing is that since cedar shake shingles are naturally made, there’s no manufacturer warranty on the materials if they fall prematurely. Ask your roofing contractor whether it is a perfect fit for your specific area in Southern California before investing in a cedar shake roof.
Option 4 – Composite (synthetic) shingle roof
A newcomer to the roofing industry – composite shingles are becoming popular more and more daily which are made of recycled materials like rubber and plastics. Some composite shingles are also made out of an engineered polymer instead of recycled materials. The great thing about these shingles is that they are unique because they’re designed to look exactly like a cedar shake roof or slate roof. No one will be able to tell the difference from the ground and is an excellent option for those on a budget for their roofing.
Option 5 – Slate roof
The slate roof itself is mined mostly in Italy and cut into square tiles that must be installed themselves one at a time, unlike other roofing materials that come in metal panels or 3-foot wide strips. It is a premium roof system made primarily out of natural slate tiles. If you choose to install a slate roof as a replacement to your old one, keep in mind that the installation process itself is very slow and expensive! And since these tiles are so heavy, your home also has to be built, framed, or retrofitted to carry the weight of the tiles. The pro to this roofing option is that the quality is superb and if you do choose to go with it, note that it will be the last roof you ever need to install for your home.
And the winner is?
There really is no winning roofing option for houses in Southern California other than the fact that it is strongly recommended to choose based on your housing situation, aesthetic preferences, and budgeting. If you have a hard time choosing the best roofing option for you then make sure to hire a contractor who can thoroughly inspect your home and provide the best option for your home.
Many homeowners do not look forward to cleaning their home’s roofs, skylights, gardens, bathrooms and even their gutters. In order to enjoy your household and living space with all your inhabitants, it’s crucial to check and maintain the gutters of your house to prevent overflowing and other problems that may arise when neglected. The role of gutters is actually quite simple: draining water from rain away from your home to maintain a clean and debris-free surface on your roof! Let’s break down 5 simple tips on how to maintain gutters and avoid overflowing.
Cleaning habits really are key
Many experts and specialists recommend cleaning out your gutters at least twice a month or when seasons change. An easy way to clean your gutter is with a powerful hose, but if you want to make the most out of your cleaning you can opt for a plumbing snake or high-pressure water which will blow out any debris, dust and twigs clogging the gutter. If you do however live in an area surrounded by many trees note that you may have to increase the frequency of your gutter cleaning sessions. Compacted leaves, pine needles and twigs can lurk around in the gutters so the more you take time to clean, the less work you’ll have to do in between sessions.
Installation of gutter helmets
Speaking of avoiding pine needles, twigs and the overflow of leaves, a simple and effective way to keep these bad boys out of the gutter is by installing gutter helmets. Gutter helmets are basically like a regular helmet but instead of protecting your head from being injured, they will resist any large object from entering which can cause clogging and blockage.
A yearly gutter repair and inspection
Spring cleaning doesn’t only consist of scrubbing down your windows and washing away debris from your skylights, it also requires conducting an inspection of your gutters and making sure whether they need to be repaired or not. Water expansion can occur as well as small incidents of damage from heavy debris which need to be repaired before the influx of spring pollen. Luckily you can clean this on your own by placing a strong sturdy ladder and asking a trustworthy friend to spot you. While you’re up there inspecting make sure to look for cracks in gutter sections, loose connectors, gaps between the gutter and eaves and damaged downpipes. If you come across any of these problems you’ll want to repair them immediately.
Installing bigger gutters if necessary
The gutter of your household may unfortunately be too small to handle the pace of the water that comes from your roof. You may need to ask a gutter installer to check out your house and determine whether the one you have installed is sufficient and big enough to carry the water flowing through. Remember the larger the gutter, the larger it can carry the volume of the water.
Tilt and Slope may also cause problems
Gutters can overflow if they are tilting forward or backward, so it’s important to inspect gutters for tilt and slope. If you are confused on how exactly to inspect this area of the gutter, hire a gutter installer or expert to ensure the slope is steep enough to move water toward the downspouts without splashing.
Clean gutters make a happy home
The bottom line is that overflowing gutters are not only noisy and annoying, but can also cause serious structural damage to your house over time. Make time to thoroughly inspect your entire house and pay attention to your roof and gutters by conducting annual inspections, cleanings and repairs.
“I have a roof above my head” is commonly used among people to describe their life situation of feeling content. All you need is a small space, warm water, some clean sheets and alas-a roof to keep you safe from all hazards. While we’re all for minimalism and do promote the art of gratefulness in today’s times, it’s still very much important to consider various aspects when it comes to building a strong and sturdy roof to protect you from weather conditions and possible damage to the residents.
If you’re building a roof from scratch
The feeling of building a brand new house is by far one of the greatest accomplishments for many Northern Americans and can induce feelings of excitement as you map, plan and sketch everything to fit your vision. A very basic thing you can do before planning to build your roof is by asking friends, family and acquaintances for recommendations on trustworthy roofing companies. Word of mouth is always the king when it comes to finding what you’re looking for considering certain people have extra picky personality traits and grade services to a T. Make sure you do trust their opinion and not just because they chose a certain company based on paid reviews or popular advertisements. Your brother’s girlfriend’s cousin might just have a different opinion on what constitutes a job well done than you do!
Make sure they offer the service you need
It’s possible you’ll need a roof specialist to work on your roofing if you have a special type of roof. Depending on the material, (metal roof or flat roof) you’ll need to make sure whether or not the roofing company you prefer to hire actually has experience in installing and working with roofs that are of the same material as yours. Installation of roofs require maximum experience and a certain skill set so if the company is not familiar with your situation, opt for another service and make sure you properly research in advance by reading more than a dozen reviews. You’re not eating out at a “bad” restaurant for one night-you’re ensuring safety for your household.
Insurance is a game-changer
Speaking of ensuring safety and damage prevention of your roof, another crucial factor very much worth considering is finding out whether the company offers insurance. Many roofing companies nowadays work directly with insurance companies in order to make filing claims for replacements or repairs easier. You should definitely seek out a roofing service that will help you with the process of receiving insurance from an insurance company you have previously worked with or trust. It can take a lot of time to properly figure out all the factors of roofing insurance on your own so it’s really best to choose a roofing company that already has experience in dealing with insurance companies.
The roofing verdict
Surely there are indeed many factors you should look out for when choosing a roofing company, so these important tips will help you narrow down your search and find the best option for your roofing needs.
When the springtime comes and brightens up your dark soul making you feel alive and clean, it also reminds you that your home is in dear need of a fresh new start. Last winter’s snow with pollen coating every outside surface forces you to put exterior home cleaning on your spring cleaning to-do list!
One question you may ask is “How the heck do I clean and maintain my skylight?” and we’re here to share the practical tips to keep things squeaky clean and reduce the time of maintenance.
The frequency of cleaning skylights
While it is recommended to properly clean skylights once every two to three months to avoid the obvious aftermath of scrubbing away, most people don’t make time or energy to do so and tend to do this once every few months or even half a year! It’s important to keep your skylight clean in order for it to serve its sole purpose: illuminating your room and providing fresh sunlight rather than artificial lighting. If you put in the time and effort to actually clean the grime and dirt on both sides of a skylight, you’ll not only reap its benefits but also reduce the time you will be spending after months of neglecting its cry to be washed.
Cleaning skylights 101
First and foremost make sure your safety is number one as you will be using a ladder to get up there and scrub away hard-to-reach areas from both sides of the glass. You’ll often find leaves, twigs and dirt accumulating around the skylight’s exterior cladding, so it’s best to remove them immediately to prevent rainwater from clogging up the glass surface. This will allow the water to flow freely. If the cladding is damaged or scratched opt to get it replaced or simply clean the scratches off with a mild soapy water solution. Soaken the glass with soapy water to remove dirt and debris, then follow along with a non-abrasive glass cleaner to further remove the dirt. Continue removing the solution with either a non-metal squeegee, a soft, clean lint-free cloth, or chamois leather. Pro tip: avoid cleaning the glass during the hottest part of the day to prevent water spots. You can thank us later.
Ok, but how do I maintain my squeaky clean work?
Most homeowners who have skylights won’t have to constantly clean the glass if they consistently keep up their routine once every few months. Most skylights allow rain to wash away most of the dirt, dust and grime based on their slope, shape and location. However, it is important to be aware of the type of material its made from so that you use the right cleaning products without damaging your skylight. A major key point many people unfortunately don’t know is that bird droppings, berries and tree sap can immediately cause straining which should be cleaned right away to prevent extra work in the future. And as a rule of thumb, note that acrylic and plastic skylights should be cleaned using the recommended solutions.
The bottom line when it comes to cleaning skylights
Consistency always wins in every aspect of our lives whether it be maintaining our weight, studying to be the next Bill Gates in college and even making sure our house and surroundings are properly cleaned and preventing any damage to our wallets in this case! Take the time to understand what your skylight is made from and what tools you need to make cleaning easier and faster than ever!
One thinks of many things when it comes to the term roof! In modern day language many Americans and English speakers in general often refer to a roof as an object that keeps you safe from above. Literally speaking, a roof t does play a major role when ensuring a safe and secure house that will keep you dry, warm and secure. But in order to ensure absolute effectiveness and keep you safe from any kind of weather, one must make sure a roof is in good condition. With that said, let’s dig a bit deeper into understanding the importance of the age of your roof!
Effectiveness of a roof is crucial
When it comes to determining the safety and prevention of outdoor elements damaging your house, finding out the age and efficiency of your roof is key. Many people build a roof above their heads without determining the age of the roofing system. If you fail to educate yourself on this crucial detail, you also fail to build an approximate budget for the possible repair and or renovation your roof may face in the future. It’s better to invest in a roof that is rather new which will save you time, money and a lot of energy than opting for something old which has a possibility to rust early and require frequent repairs!
Understanding the age of your roof
An average human building a house isn’t a magician or a psychic, thus it’s highly recommended you hire a trusted professional who can thoroughly inspect your roof. If the home you’re buying is pre-built and owned by other residents, make sure you get a hold of the receipts of the roof and check the date of when it was purchased and installed. Another key step is enquiring about its inspection dates in order to get a better understanding of how many times the roof has been repaired, maintained or renovated by professionals. Another fool-proof and easy way in understanding the age of your roof is by simply contacting the contractor who actually installed and maintained the roof of the house providing accurate information on the date.
Determining whether the roof is worth keeping
If you’ve opted to ask for receipts and record history of the installation of the roof and are concerned whether it is being effective or not, you can go ahead and obviously order a new roof to be installed. However, if the roof wasn’t installed that long ago, then it isn’t really necessary to get a full roof replacement anytime soon. Another thing to note is that many states actually require a permit for roofing systems. This way you can ask for a copy at your local government office or town hall to clarify the actual date of installation.
In conclusion, there are of course many factors when it comes to building and or buying a house that unfortunately many people actually seem to bypass, thus costing them money, discomfort and the struggle of constantly having to repair things. A roof however is in fact the key to ensuring you keep all parties safe from any kind of natural elements or weather. Take the extra mile without winging it and ensure the effectiveness of your roof by understanding its age and how long it can actually serve you and keep your household safe!