Monday, May 21, 2012

Vinyl Replacement Windows Houston – 5 Considerations


Before the 1950s, vinyl windows were unimaginable. Today, these units are for real and there have been several advancements made to improve the composition of PVC or the polyvinyl chloride which prompted homeowners to replace good-old wood and pricey aluminum with plastic.

If you’re doubtful whether vinyl replacement windows Houston are for you, use the following to weigh your options.
  1. Versus aluminum, vinyl is the better insulator. Take note that even though wood is an intrinsic insulator too, affording the durable variety can be a problem. In case you do decide to go for aluminum insulated glass windows, make sure that the units come with a thermal breaker. 
  2. Cost-wise, vinyl bests other materials. It is one of the ready answers to homeowners who require cost-effective window systems. After all, why should you beat yourself up with expensive wood or aluminum frames when vinyl windows work equally well and for a cheaper price, right?
  3. In terms of aesthetics, vinyl can be a looker. It requires no staining, caulking, and repainting. As matter of fact, color is already infused in the units, and fade rates are impressively slow. For the most part, you need only to clean the frames to restore their new look. 
  4. In terms of resistance, vinyl does not yield at all to factors that can destroy either aluminum or wood: warping, termites, pitting, and corrosion. Mold may be a problem, but only for unmaintained units. 
  5. Contrary to public opinion, vinyl can be recycled, corrects the Vinyl Institute. It’s just that the process is not widely practiced since most of the vinyl that gets recycled is not post-consumer scrap by manufacturer scrap (which comes from factories).
Vinyl is not perfect, so you have to decide for yourself whether or not you should get this type of replacement. Be guided with the above considerations.

In case you’re giving vinyl the green light, have vinyl replacement windows Houston professionals take care of the installation. Reworks resulting from DIY mistakes can be costly.

Thursday, April 26, 2012

Roofing Houston: Planning Your Expenses


Determining your budget is an important factor in any roofing Houston project. In this post, we discuss the factors you need to consider in planning the expenses of roofing project.

Scale of Project

You ought to have an idea of how much damage your roof has sustained. Minor roof work such as flashing or gutter repair should not really be a problem.

Below are the major roofing projects that may require you to spend more. Your roofer should be able to explain just how extensive each of these projects can get.

  • Asphalt shingle replacement – Done known as a tear off, shingle replacement can range anywhere from $75 all the to older roofs, asphalt shingle replacement projects require the roofers to strip the entire roof down to the deck. A new layer is then installed after. Also way up to $200 per square depending on the damage sustained by the roof.  
      •  TIP: A square is a roofing term which means 100 sq feet.
  • Asphalt shingle roof-over – Not as expensive as tear-offs, roof overs are still considered major projects. Roof-overs require your roofer to install a new layer of asphalt shingle over an existing layer. This procedure is often done to hide cosmetic imperfections on the roof.
Contractor
 
Houston roofers charge differently. Here are the factors you have to consider in choosing your roofer.
  • Experience – It's best to stick with an experienced roofer. Although they may charge more, you are most likely to get quality work from them. 
  •  Reliability – Reliable roofing companies are most likely to be referred by other people. Ask around your neighborhood for contractor referrals. 
  •  Credibility – Check your roofing contractor for certification and licenses. Only go for a licensed contractor. Better yet, pick one that's accredited by the Better Business Bureau.
In the end, it's all about striking a balance between quality and price. Remember, a good roof is an investment that will last you years.