Home Improvement Blog

5 signs for new roof replacement/installation; Contractor Monroe, NY

Posted by william bateman on Sat, Feb 04, 2023 @ 10:54 AM

Here in Orange County, NY we experience all forms of weather systems year round that impact our area in various different ways. Part of the Tri-State area which includes New York, New Jersey and Connecticut, we have a true four season location. Known for our unique geography of mountains and low lying valleys, plentiful with lakes, streams and rivers plus vast woodlands make for a tranquil environment to live. Situated within close distance to the Atlantic Ocean and many different water outlets make it desirable to beach dwellers and boaters while campers and hikers can enjoy the beautiful countryside. Within a few hours you can visit the Great Lakes Region and even go into Canada or go to one of the many surrounding cities, especially New York City. The topography of our area is absolutely wonderful and gorgeous but we are also surrounded by vast bodies of water. These bodies of water can create extreme amounts of moisture in the atmosphere and can result in a plethora of weather systems year round.

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Your roof is one of the main components of your home when it comes to protecting you and your loved ones from the harsh elements. From harsh winter snows to heavy spring rains and summer thunderstorms, your roof needs to be ready to efficiently shed water away from your home rapidly. With installation of a new roof will provide you with many years of protection.

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 Signs you may need a new roof installation:

  • Roof shingles visibly buckling
  • Soft spots on roof decking
  • Leaking water through roof shingles
  • Ice damming backing up
  • Insufficient roof ventilation

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A properly installed roof requires more than just installing roof shingles on your roof decking. First off a clean, solid roof deck needs to be in place prior to any installation of roofing components. A poor roof deck will comprise the integrity and longevity of your new roof installation. Once existing roof shingles have been stripped down to existing roof decking, cleaned thoroughly and inspected for any potential damages, installation can begin. For new roofs the same procedure is performed minus the removal of existing shingles.

Components of new roof installation:

  • Ice and water shield installed on eaves of roof deck(code 3ft in from exterior wall)
  • Ice and water shield installed in valleys and under flashings
  • ice and water shield installed on roof rake ends of roof deck(not required by code)
  • New vent boots around existing vent lines
  • Aluminum drip edge around perimeter of all edges of roof
  • Vapor barrier paper installed on entire roof deck minus ares where ice and water shield has been installed
  • Attic fan(not code but can be added)
  • Installation of roof shingles(most commonly used is 30 year architectural shingle)
  • Installation of ridge vent

Most common roof shingle on the market has become the popular 30 year architectural shingle which provides superior performance and enhanced esthetic appearance compared to the original  three tab roof. Three tab roof shingles are still available and used at a slightly lower cost than architectural but perform at about half when it comes to wind ratings. Architectural shingles create a much nicer curb appeal due to the 3D appearance and with that a much thicker and durable shingle. In some cases where existing shingles are installed, architectural shingles may be installed over existing roof in areas where codes allow. (Not code or recommended for roofs with two layers in place already) Three tab shingles may also be used in re-roofing but not advised as architectural shingles are heavier and lay flatter.

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Longevity and efficiency for your home/roof relies on adequate ventilation and attic insulation for proper air flow and controlled heat/moisture throughout your attic. Inadequate attic ventilation allows stagnant air to buildup. Extreme summer heat can cause dry rot and potentially damage to air conditioning units due to overworking in high temperatures especially with lack of fresh air movement. Higher heat with no ventilation will shorten the lifespan of your roof. During winter heat loss becomes an issue due to inadequate insulation that may lead to ice damming. Ice damming occurs during the winter months with snow buildup that backs up under your shingles during the freeze and thaw process. Ice damming is very common in the northeast and can cause potential water damage.

5 Different types of roof ventilation installs:

  • Ridge vents installed at top peaks of roof
  • Soffit vents installed under soffits
  • Gable vents installed on gable ends of roof peaks
  • Attic fan(s) installed in roof powered by electric or solar and activated by a thermostat 
  • House fan installed that brings fresh air from outside into living areas of home and into attic

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On most any roof you will have a gutter system installed for removing water off of roof and away from the home. Some areas that receive excessive snowfall amounts may opt out to leave gutters off to prevent ice damming. The roof of your home removes tremendous amounts of liquid due to the square footage that collects and needs to be discarded efficiently. Without roof gutter systems water may collect around your foundation and possibly cause water infiltration into your basement. During end of winter with melting snows followed by heavy spring rains the ground water tables rise fast creating hydrostatic pressure buildup which could cause damage to your foundation. Adding extra unwanted roof water to ground water increases pressure dramatically causing your homes Footing Drains to work harder to remove water. When possible it is strongly recommended to extend downspouts away from your home to excrete water away. 

Most new roof replacements can be performed in one day considering size and condition of roof decking when shingles have been removed. Added protection and value to for your home may be to look into the installation of an Egress Window

 

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Topics: orange county ny, General Contractor, remodeling, Construction, construction-general--monroe, Roofing Monroe NY, footing drain, insulation, egress windows, ice control, water damage, Sullivan County ny, roof replacement, roofing contractor

5 Reasons you may need a dry well installed/Orange County, NY 10950

Posted by william bateman on Fri, Dec 30, 2022 @ 09:38 AM

Dry wells are essentially excavated pits with adequate amounts of aggregate to catch unwanted water on your property. This usually consists of water from your home gutter downspouts, footing drains, runoff, curtain drains and sump pumps. Other applications may be used for grey water from your home washing machine or sinks to isolate excess water contaminated by detergents that flow into your septic tank and leach fields. Many detergents can be harmful to your septic system and kill off good bacteria needed to break down solid wastes and powdered detergents have been known to not fully dissolve and clog leach fields not allowing water to properly flow and dissipate into the soil. In drainage situations, dry wells are a great solution on properties where water needs to be transferred to a different location but doesn't have sufficient grade on property to relieve water piped to daylight. 

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Dry wells can simply be a large pit filled with aggregate for a fast, simple solution. For longevity and a fuly functioning dry well system, it is advised to install an in ground corrugated dry well basin piped solid to a basin. Then filter fabric is installed around pit/basin with adequate amounts of aggregate applied around basin. Before installing a dry well, a perc test may be necessary in some municipalities to determine the rate of water percolation that dissipates into your soil. Dry well perc tests aren't as necessary as septic systems and leach fields as they are mainly for ground/rain/grey water applications. They can be easily performed by anyone including the homeowner. A small pit needs to be dug and filled with water while timed to see how fast water dissipates. This test should be performed under dry conditions, tested dry and after soil has been saturated. Soil containing high densities of clay and shale will not allow water to percolate into the ground at a fast rate which will indicate that more aggregate will be needed during installation.

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5 Reasons you may need a dry well installed:

  • Removing unwanted water pooling on property with nowhere to drain
  • Removing water from gutter downspouts away from home
  • Relieving water from footing drains that have no outlet and pitch with grade to daylight
  • Draining down pool water(required by some municipalities when installing a pool)
  • Separating grey water from septic tanks and leach fields if you have a septic system

If you have a septic system why should you consider a dry well?

The area you live may not offer a sewer service in your municipality leaving you with no option but installing a septic system. Septic systems have been around since the early 1860's when the first actual septic tank was invented using concrete and clay pipe. While humans have been improving sanitation over the last 3,000 years, it wasn't until the 1940's that septic systems became a common method of waste water management in many parts of the United States. A good functioning septic system relies on good bacteria to break down solids to liquid that in turn is removed through an over flow pipe. It is then discharged through the leach field to dissipate into the soil and  and some of the liquid may evaporate from the surface as well. Heavy detergent agents used in your washing machine may kill off the good bacteria needed to sustain a healthy functioning septic system. Washing machines consume gallons of water during a wash cycle, as much as 50 gallons on older models. This will equate to massive amounts of unnecessary grey water into your septic system. By adding a dry well, waste water can be diverted from septic tank, greatly reducing the amount waste water into your tank and leach fields.

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How a septic tank works:

Sewage both black and grey drain from all plumbing fixtures of your home into the septic tank. This is where heavy solids settle to the bottom where the bacterial action takes place producing enzymes to digest sludge and gases. The lighter solids, such as oils, fats and grease rise to the top to form a scum layer. Solids that are not decomposed remain in the tank. For a healthy septic tank to perform correctly, it is advised to have tank pumped out every 3-5 years. 

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What is a leach field?

A leach field is a major component of a septic system integrated to remove and filter organic material from your septic tank. Leach fields are a constructed underground system of perforated pipes adjacent to your septic tank that allows waste water to dissipate into the soils and be filtered. Allowing sludge buildup in your leach field can result in complete failure of your entire system. This is a good reason to add a dry well to divert unnecessary excess water into your system.

Signs of a failing leach system:

  • Gurgling sounds in the plumbing system 
  • Standing water and/or damp spots near septic tank or drain field
  • Bad odors around septic tank or leach field
  • Bright green, spongy lush grass over septic tank and/or drain field, even in dry conditions 
  • Sewage backups into home

Now that we clarified how your home waste system works if you have a septic system and how a dry well can help in this situation, we can get back to basic drainage issues.  A simple gutter may not seem like much of an ordeal and it may not be if a gutter extension is added above grade and runoff is sloped away from the home. In areas with lower topography that allows water to pool next to foundations can add to hydrostatic pressure and creates strain to your foundation and create possible water infiltration. In this case it is advised to excavate and install a buried line to remove any excess water away from your home to a safe location that won't effect other areas. These areas include locations on property that can contribute to ice buildup in winter or onto neighbors property. If you have proper grade to relieve the water to daylight, do so, if not you may need a dry well installed.

All drainage components used on a property and/or home require an outlet somewhere. If the grade of property doesn't allow for proper distribution of water away from home, a dry well installation may be inevitable. Another thing to keep in mind when installing a new roof or your existing roof is to inspect gutter system for proper function.  Calculations can also be made to determine the volume of liquid consumed into the gutters and downspouts. This can help when choosing the size of dry well to install. All weather systems are different with a far range of liquid carried, so it is better to always go bigger than necessary especially when combining different drainage systems into one.

Determining whether or not you may need a dry well should have been explained here but hiring a drainage professional can help guide you through the process fairly easily. Water is one of Mother Natures strongest forces that is responsible for trillions of dollars in damages a year around the world and by determining the source and rectifying the the issues before damage is done is key.

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Topics: General Contractor, bathrooms, Construction, construction-general--monroe, Roofing Monroe NY, footing drain, drainage, egress windows, finished basement, excavation, septic systems, backhoe, toilet, foundation

5 Benefits and 7 key components to a new roof installation of your home

Posted by william bateman on Tue, Dec 13, 2022 @ 09:13 AM

Your home is most likely your largest investment in life. Protecting it from the harsh elements we experience is essential for maintaining and adding value to your home. Water damage is the cause for billions of dollars in damage every year and can be avoided with a professional roof installation. Here in Orange County, NY we experience severe weather at times from severe thunderstorms and occasional hurricanes to crippling snowstorms. Having a good roof protects you and your family during these events. Heavy winter snows followed by heavy spring rains doubles the amounts of water that has the high potential of water infiltration into your homes roof. Ice damming can also occur with higher temperatures melting snow followed by freezing at gutter line causing water backup. On another note, keep in mind water can buildup around your basement foundation walls from these weather events causing flooding and structural damage if your footing drains are failing.

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5 Benefits of a new roof installation:

  • You and your loved ones protected from the harsh elements
  • Eliminating possible water infiltration that can water damage
  • Perfect time to check gutters and downspouts for functionality or add gutter system 
  • Eliminate hazardous health ailments from the growth of mold and mildew caused by water infilitation
  • Add value to your home along with stunning appearance with new 30 year architectural shingles

There is more to your homes roof than just the appearance. What's underneath that you don't see is crucial for the longevity of your roof. Few different components are necessary when installing a new roof and when all used in conjunction with each other help create an efficiently controlled environment for your homes roof and attic.

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The two factors to deal with in any home is a battle between moisture and heat. Keeping air flow is crucial to maintaining a controlled environment in your attic allowing it to breathe. Not only will proper ventilation give your longer life out of your new roof installation it can make your home more efficient cutting down of heating and cooling costs.

5 key components when installing a new roof:

  • Aluminum drip edge around perimeter of roof to shed water away and prevent capillary action
  • Installation of ridge vents to expel heat from attic
  • Installation of ice and water shield minimum 3 ft up from roofs end(if roof has overhang 3 ft in from interior wall) in valleys and around chimneys and flashings
  • Installation of felt paper or equivalent vapor barrier on rest of roof deck 
  • Attic fan to remove heat from attic during the hot summer days
  • Soffit vents are beneficial in moving more fresh air through your attic
  • Gable vents are also beneficial in moving air in and out of your attics upper atmosphere 

Most newer homes may already have these components in place as compared to older homes. Not all homes may be a candidate for all these installations but all homes a ridge vent can be easily installed when installing a new roof. Keep in mind that flat roofs and cathedral ceilings drastically cut down on ventilation and air flow sometimes cutting roof life in half. Styrofoam baffles may be installed in between rafters and insulation from the inside increasing air flow but this would most likely be install during new construction or renovation.

Most new roof installations can be installed in one day depending on the size and condition. Roof is first stripped and inspected for any damages that may have occurred and replaced if necessary before underlayment and shingles are installed. Property is cleaned of any debris and removed to an approved landfill facility for proper disposal. A good roof installation will give you years of functionality and peace in mind against one of natures strongest forces, WATER!!!!

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Topics: General Contractor, Construction, construction-general--monroe, Roofing Monroe NY, insulation, drainage, ice control, bi-level, ice damming

Is your roof in need of replacement?

Posted by william bateman on Wed, Nov 26, 2014 @ 03:20 PM

Here in the northeast we can experience some pretty brutal winters that can leave our homes at high risk if you don't have a good roof. The strongest part of your home may be the foundation but without a adequate roof, your home is worthless! Crippling snowstorms are very common in our area and the weight load of snow on our roofs can result in collaspe of your roof, as we have just seen in Buffalo, NY

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Click here and fill out our contact page for a free estimate!

 

 

Another common problem is ice damming. Ice damming occurs when heat loss from your home due to inadequate insulation melts snow and it freezes when it reaches the soffit of your home. As ice forms water backs up under the shingles causing major water damage to the interior of your home.

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A poor roof can leave a home with very little value due to the damage it can do. Sometimes the damage can go unnoticed for years until it is too late! Rot and mildew can run rampant if issues aren't corrected quickly and efficiently!

 

What are the risks of a poor roof?:

  • Interior water damage

  • Rotten wood

  • Dry rot

  • Mold/mildew

  • Health problems

  • Allergies

  • Termites

  • Carpenter ants

  • Roof collapse

    roof replacement contractor monroe ny

     

    With a new roof replacement you want to do it right. New architectural shingles on the market are rated for 30 yrs. Thats a long time but if not installed correctly, roof will fail!!! 

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    Call today for a free roof estimate

    845-590-5336

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Topics: Monroe NY, orange county ny, construction-general, Construction, construction-general--monroe, Roofing Monroe NY, Roofing, Architectural shingles, improvements, windows, insulation, certainteed, anderson, egress windows, additions

Benefits of installing an egress window

Posted by william bateman on Mon, Dec 17, 2012 @ 06:46 PM

If you are considering remodeling your basement you will likely find that your town requires the installation of egress windows. Most building codes mandate that egress windows be installed in order to provide an adequate escape route in an emergency situation, such as a fire. Besides adding safety and increasing your home's value, egress windows can greatly increase airflow and light, changing what was once a dark basement into a light, airy living space.

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 Egress windows are designed to allow people to escape a basement in the event of a fire. Most often, egress windows are installed during a basement renovation in order to comply with local building codes. Many towns have specific measurements that must be met, so it will be necessary to contact your local building-codes office in order to find out exactly what size window you must install in your basement.

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Egress windows come in as many varieties as typical windows, with as many different levels of quality and insulation, depending on the manufacturer. But all egress windows are designed to provide a safe escape route in the event of emergency. Most often, they provide about 6 square feet of roughly rectangular window surface. Check with the manufacturer if there is any question of whether a particular window is suitable to be used as an egress window.

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Benefits of adding an egress window:
  • Added safety

  • More natural light

  • Ventilation

  • Creates cleaner basement enviroment and decreases the chances for mold and mildew

  • Peace in mind that your loved ones will be safe

  • Added value

  • Aesthetically, they can change the look and feel of a basement

 

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Egress windows Orange County, NY

Egress windows are essentially fire escape windows installed in finished basements. It is a national code that enstates that all finished basements must have a window of 5.7 sq. ft., no more than 44 inches to the sill height and 22 inch clear opening to be able to escape in case of an emergency.

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A recent egress window installation byWMB Construction where we removed the sliding glass door, which had water/flooding issues, and installed a window.

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Here we closed in the block foundation and added a footing drain to relieve water pressure. Foundation will be tarred and backfilled with lots of 3/4" gravel to keep the water moving.

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All parging is complete and window looks like it has always been there. A little paint to match is all the customer needs once concrete has cured. Water issues were corrected to keep this basement dry while also conforming to building codes.

Benefits by installing an egress window:

  • Added ventilation to your basement

  • Added natural light which helps prevent growth of mold and mildew

  • Peace in mind that your loved ones will be protected and safe from harms way

  • Added value to your home

contractor, bathroom, kitchens, remodel

What is an egress window?

WHAT IS AN EGRESS WINDOW?

 

An egress window is a window that is required in specific locations in a dwelling and is intended to provide an emergency means of exiting a dwelling. Windows must meet specific size and requirements to qualify as an egress window.egress windows concrete orange county ny

 

 

 

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Egress windows Orange County, NY

Egress windows are essentially fire escape windows installed in finished basements. It is a national code that enstates that all finished basements must have a window of 5.7 sq. ft., no more than 44 inches to the sill height and 22 inch clear opening to be able to escape in case of an emergency.

egress window contactor hudson valley ny

A recent egress window installation byWMB Construction where we removed the sliding glass door, which had water/flooding issues, and installed a window.

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Here we closed in the block foundation and added a footing drain to relieve water pressure. Foundation will be tarred and backfilled with lots of 3/4" gravel to keep the water moving.

carpentry egress window ny

All parging is complete and window looks like it has always been there. A little paint to match is all the customer needs once concrete has cured. Water issues were corrected to keep this basement dry while also conforming to building codes.

Benefits by installing an egress window:

  • Added ventilation to your basement

  • Added natural light which helps prevent growth of mold and mildew

  • Peace in mind that your loved ones will be protected and safe from harms way

  • Added value to your home

contractor, bathroom, kitchens, remodel

What is an egress window?

WHAT IS AN EGRESS WINDOW?

 

An egress window is a window that is required in specific locations in a dwelling and is intended to provide an emergency means of exiting a dwelling. Windows must meet specific size and requirements to qualify as an egress window.egress windows concrete orange county ny

 

WHERE ARE EGRESS WINDOWS REQUIRED?

 

Egress windows are required in every room used for sleeping purposes (bedrooms) on any floor and in basements with habitable space. If you are constructing a new home, the code requires that you put an egress window in each bedroom. It also requires an egress window in the basement if habitable rooms will be finished in the basement. If you install a basement bedroom or bedrooms, an egress window is required in each bedroom. If you have an existing home and you add a sleeping room in an unfinished basement, the code requires that you install an egress window in the sleeping room or rooms.

 

WHAT ARE SIZE REQUIREMENTS FOR AN EGRESS

WINDOW?

 

An egress window must satisfy four International Residential Code (IRC) criteria:

• Minimum width of opening: 20 in.

• Minimum height of opening: 24 in.

• Minimum net clear opening: 5.7 sq. ft. (5.0 sq. ft. for ground floor).

• Maximum sill height above floor: 44 in

 

The window must have a minimum net clear opening of 5.7 sq. ft. Net clear opening refers to the actual free and clear space that exists when the window is open. It is not the rough opening size or the glass panel size, but the actual opening a person can crawl through.

The window opening must be operational from the inside without keys or tools. Bars, grilles and grates may be installed over windows but must be operational without tools or keys and still allow the minimum clear opening.

You might assume that a 20-in. by 24-in. window would be acceptable for egress. However, those dimensions would yield a net clear opening of only 3.3 sq. ft. To achieve the required net clear opening of 5.7 sq. ft., a 20-in. wide window would have to be 42 in. high. Likewise, a 24-in. high window would have to be 34 in. wide

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



Topics: construction-general-painting-monroe, Monroe NY, orange county ny, General Contractor, construction-general, Construction, basements, construction-general--monroe, Roofing Monroe NY, contractor, windows, certainteed, anderson

Wood vs. Steel vs. Fiberglass Doors. Whats the best choice?

Posted by william bateman on Sat, Dec 08, 2012 @ 02:58 PM

Wood Doors vs. Steel Doors vs. Fiberglass Doors

Even after 25 years, fiberglass remains the most advanced material for entryways — able to satisfy both today’s and tomorrow’s homeowners by giving them the look of wood doors and the strength of steel doors, without the compromises of either. In fact, fiberglass doors offer just what homeowners want* — the optimum combination of security, energy efficiency, performance and aesthetics. Therma-Tru not only pioneered the fiberglass door category but we continue to lead the industry.

 

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Benefits of wood doors:

  • Beautiful wood grain

  • High end look

  • Warm feel and touch

  • Scratches easily fixed

 

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Benefits of steel doors:

  • Lower maintenance

  • No cracking or bowing

  • Less exspensive

  • Energy efficient

  • Good insulating value

  • Secure

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Benefits of fiberglass doors:

  • Lowest maintenace

  • Resists cracking and denting

  • Offers smooth or wood grain finishes

  • Won't rot, deteriorate or rust

  • Can be painted or stained

  • Energy efficient

  • Won't warp, bow or twist

  • Five times the insulating value of wood

  • Secure

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Therma-Tru offers decorative glass options:

  • Increase curb appeal and the perceived value of your home

  • Allow more light into your home

  • Reflect your personal style

  • Are offered in impact rated glass options to increase security and protection from severe weather

 

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 After looking at all three door choices, fiberglass seems to be the best choice all around. Wood still has the best appearance and steel is right in the middle with economy and insulating values. When remodeling  your home with a new door upgrade the options can be endless. Therma-Tru has thousands of different choices and configurations to choose from. Call WMB Construction today for your next door installation!

 

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Topics: construction-general-painting-monroe, Monroe NY, orange county ny, General Contractor, remodeling, remodel, Construction, Composite Decking Orange County NY, construction-general--monroe, Roofing Monroe NY, Roofing, improvements, windows, insulation, siding

How do you know you need a new roof?

Posted by william bateman on Thu, Dec 06, 2012 @ 09:08 PM

Your roof is the main component of your home. Let's face it, without a good roof, your home would be unlivable. A poor roof can generate many problems within a home; mold, mildew, allergens, rot, termites, carpenter ants, etc.!!! Most of these issues can go unknown for years until it is too late!!! We tell all of our customers that preventive maintaince is key to a healthy roof and home where ever you live. Years of unknown damage can cost thousands extra in the long run!!!

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Benifits of a new roof installation:

  • Ice shield installed to take away from ice damming problems in the winter.

  • Aluminum drip edge installed to prevent capillary action of water coming back into your home.

  • Ridge vent installed to increase ventilation=longer roof life.

  • Remove any rot from roof deck.

  • Peace in mind

 

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 How do you know your roof is in need of replacement:

  • Algae growth on shingles

  • Damaged flashing

  • Buckling of sheating under shingles

  • Curling of shingles

  • Blistering of shingles

  • Missing shingles

  • Ceiling spots inside of your home

  • Missing granules on shingles

  • Evidence of rotting

 

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Topics: construction-general-painting-monroe, General Contractor, remodeling, remodel, construction-general, Construction, Roofing Monroe NY, Roofing, windows, siding

7 health concerns due to a leaking roof!

Posted by william bateman on Wed, Jul 11, 2012 @ 10:02 AM

 

Your roof is the main component of your home that protects your entire investment. A leaking roof can cause a variety of problems to your home and in some instances leave your home worthless. A common problem with a poor roof is toxic mold! Leaking water penetrates through your roof shingles and can go unnoticed for years until the damage has grown to unsizedly proportions. Once mold has become established it can be very hard and costly to remove and not to mention the health problems it can cause.

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What is Toxic Mold?

Toxic mold is a type of mold that produces hazardous byproducts, called mycotoxins. While individuals with asthma and other respiratory problems may have reactions to many types of mold, it's thought that mycotoxins are more likely to trigger health problems in even healthy individuals. These toxins are believed to be linked to memory loss and to severe lung problems in infants and the elderly.

Floating particles of mold are invisible to the naked eye, so it's impossible to see where they might have landed until they begin to grow. Loose mold particles that accumulate on items within a house are easily inhaled and can be a constant irritation to the people and pets who live there.

The toxic mold we hear most about is Stachybotrys chartarum, a slimy, greenish-black mold that grows on moisture-laden materials that contain cellulose, such as wood, paper, drywall, and other similar products. It does not grow on tile or cement.

Even if the mold in your home is not toxic mold, it can still be a problem, because any mold growing on organic materials will in time destroy them--and too much mold of any type smells bad and degrades air quality.

 

Mold thrives in damp, humid conditions:

  • Bathrooms with poor ventilation. Install an exhaust fan if possible.

  • Leaky water pipes. Repair them immediately.

  • Roof leaks. Repair them right away.

  • Flood aftermath. Repair as soon as possible.

  • Clothes dryers and exhaust fans that vent under the house or back into the room. Vent them to the outside.

Health concerns due to toxic mold:

  • Respiratory infections

  • Swelling of the eyes

  • Nose and throat problems

  • Asthma

  • Elevated risk for bronchitis

  • Lung and skin infections

  • Neurological problems

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If your home needs a new roof you most likely have an older three tab shingle that carries a 20-25 year life span. Newer architectural shingles carry a standard 30 year with options up to 50 years. There are many different colors to choose from to make a huge transition to your home.

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Proper ventilation also plays a big part in the longevity of your roof. Keeping your roof and attic cooler will have a huge effect on the efficiency of your home. Just think of your car on a hot summers day with the windows rolled up and how hot and stale the air is. That is the same environment as your attic except it is dark and even hotter. Now if you cracked the windows in your car you would immediately feel fresh air and the car would cool instantly. Proper ventilation also helps prevent against mold, mildew and dry rotting.

Key roof ventilation components:

  • Ridge vent

  • Soffit vents

  • Gable vents

  • Attic fan

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Components on your roof deck are necessary before roof shingles have been applied. First, aluminum drip edge needs to be installed around the entire perimeter of roof. Aluminum drip edge prevents capillary action and sheds water away from your home instead of back into your home. Second, ice dam is installed on lower section of roof deck, in valleys, around chimneys and skylights. Ice dam material greatly cuts down on water penetrating your home due to ice damming that we frequently experience here in the Northeast. Third, felt paper will cover the rest of the entire roof deck for added protection and act as a vapor barrier.

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At the end of the day it is always good to have peace in mind that your largest investment is protected and your family is safe. Mold is responsible for billions of dollars in damage a years and can make a million dollar home worth just pennies. Water is mother natures most powerful force and it is our job to keep it out. Water penetration can go unknown for years and by then the damage has been done. This can be prevented by annual inspections by a qualified roofing professional.

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Topics: construction-general-painting-monroe, orange county ny, General Contractor, Construction, Composite Decking Orange County NY, construction-general--monroe, Roofing Monroe NY

Start planning your outdoor project now!

Posted by william bateman on Thu, Jan 05, 2012 @ 09:47 AM

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Dreaded winter has arrived bringing in the cold and windy weather that we experience every year here in the northeast. Bathing suits and barbeques have been put away and for most of us our outdoor activities have been moved indoors. But rest assure, summer is not too far away!

Now is the time to start planning for your homes outside oasis!

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Besides the occassional vacation here and there, your home is the area where you live and create the most memories in. From everyday life to the family parties to the last minute BBQ,s with a few friends. Creating a peaceful and tranquil outdoor enviroment to your home will not only greatly increase the value of your home but also offer that vacation feeling without the hassles.

Three recommended outdoor enhancements: 

1) Deck

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  • Added entertaining area

  • Can be constructed around pools

  • Screen in areas can be created

  • Elevated decks can be built for second story applications

  • Added value to your home

  • Options of treat/cedar lumber or mantainance free composite

2) Pool House/Purgula

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  • Added outdoor kitchen areas can be added to your entertaining area

  • Hidden pool equipment and protected inside from mother nature

  • Purgulas add a unique look to any project and help filter sun

  • Create outdoor shower and changing area

3) Concrete patio

 

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  • Offers added entertaining area at ground level

  • Great base for fire pits

  • Variety of colors

 

Now is the time to start planning for your outdoor projects!

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Topics: construction-general-painting-monroe, Monroe NY, orange county ny, bathrooms, outdoors, Roofing Monroe NY, kitchens, excavating, general, contractor, home, improvements

Is your roof going to survive the winter?

Posted by william bateman on Tue, Feb 08, 2011 @ 09:56 AM

Here in the Northeast we can experience some pretty grueling weather during the winter months. With snow storm after snow storm the accumulating totals keep increasing. Take two feet of snow on your roof, add freezing rain and temperatures that keep rising and falling and you have the perfect ingredients for a mid-winter disaster. That creaking and groaning you may be hearing is not your husband/wife but your roof buckling under tons of winter weather. Roofs built with a pitch can withstand much more weight than flat roofs. Now not to panic, your roof should not be falling any time soon and there isn't much you can do about it. Some people try to shovel the snow and break up ice damming on their roofs but I don't recommend it. It is a very dangerous practice and most of the time you will create more damage to your shingles, leaving you with more headaches when the snow melts.

A few tips if you decide to clear the snow off your roof:

  • Don't try to remove snow alone. In case you slip somebody can help.
  • If you use a metal rake or metal ladder, stay clear of power lines.
  • Shovel snow down the roof and not up preventing damage to the shingles.

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In the fall months you should be preparing for winter ahead of time. Precautions can be taken to prevent ice damming on your roof. The biggest concern with winter snow on roofs is the damage from ice damming. The penetration of water into your home can create all sorts of damages from electrical shorts to mold and mildew issues.

How to prepare your roof for winter:

  • Clean your gutters.
  • Install heated electrical lines on your roof designed for melting off ice dams.
  • Install ridge vents to prevent heat build up in attics.
  • Install new roof with ice dam underlayment.
  • Make sure you have adequate insulation in your attic.

 

 

 

roofing ice dam

Installing a new roof with ice dam installed is your best bet in preventing ice damming from occurring.

With a new roof you gain all of these ice fighting features:

  • Ice dam material installed on roof decking.
  • Aluminum drip edge to prevent capillary action.
  • Ridge vent to prevent attic heat build-up.
  • 30 year architectural shingles with higher wind ratings and added durability.
  • Peace in mind.

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Topics: orange county ny, construction-general--monroe, Roofing Monroe NY, Roofing, Architectural shingles