Window Replacement: A Mini But Mighty Remodel

Replacing your windows may not be at the top of your home improvement list, but perhaps it should be. A window replacement may not be as large a project as building a swimming pool or a patio or completely remodeling your kitchen, but such a small project can have a huge impact on your life, and over 100% return on investment.

You Recover Nearly $100 of Your Investment

According to REMODELING magazine, selling your home with newly replaced windows can yield up to 74% return on investment. Then, when you figure in tax deductions you can receive for energy savings, replacing your windows can actually end up costing you $0.

Links to tax credits and deductions available for window upgrades in the State of Idaho:

$500 Federal Residential Energy Efficiency Tax Credit 

Idaho Income Tax Deduction for Energy Efficiency Upgrades

Idaho Power Energy Efficiciency Rebate

Energy Star Rebate Finder

Improved Curb Appeal

If you’re planning to sell the house in the future, keep in mind that first impressions are everything. Buyers will develop an opinion within the first few minutes of pulling up to your home. Sure, updating the interiors is always important, but buyers will never even see the inside if the exterior scares them away.

Windows may not seem like much to you, but they are one of the exterior elements that have a major impact on your property’s first impression. A new, modern window coupled with small upgrades will have buyers rushing to offer you a price.

Lower Energy Costs

Your windows are a double-edged sword. We need them for natural light to come in—but in doing so we inevitably let the heat out during the colder months and the cold during the hotter months, which means pumping up the air conditioning unit or heater. This means the wrong windows can increase your utility bills. The Department of Energy even estimates that the amount of energy lost each year due to windows is $35 million.

Years ago, the only options we had were single-pane glass in a timber frame, which do a great job of letting light in, but not so great at stopping heat and cold from transferring in and out. Fortunately, homeowners like you can reduce your energy costs by replacing outdated windows into newer, more energy efficient ones.

Reduced Maintenance Needs

Older window models require a lot of maintenance. With timber windows, for instance, the paint will easily peel, fade, and rot, especially if you live in Idaho where rains and storms are a common occurrence. Each year, you would probably need to spend time re-painting the frames.

Replacing your windows with newer ones, especially those that feature advanced designs and technology, is the way to go. Go for easy-clean features, durability, and quality craftsmanship. Opt for steel frames, too, as these are much less susceptible to rot and deterioration than their wood counterparts.

Decreased Noise

Sound is wonderful—but the sound we don’t want to hear is simply noise, an annoyance that can make study, work, or sleep impossible, and life in general, stressful. Fortunately, there’s good news for you: installing modern windows can put a damper on the issue, especially if you live near a major road, a construction site, a nightclub, a school, or in a neighborhood filled with barking dogs and lawnmowers.

The weather stripping is usually the weak link in older systems, because according to the rule of acoustics, just a 1% gap in the sound barrier can already transmit 50% of sound. So, go for windows that feature high quality, triple-barrier weather stripping between the frame and the sash. But of course, this wouldn’t help much if the frame is made of wood, so opt for steel framing, too.

Not only do quality windows with quality weather stripping protect the home from air and water infiltration, but it can also reduce the outside noise transition into the home.

Increased Safety and Security

Old windows often stick easily or no longer lock properly. More than just a frustration, this poses a security risk to your home, as thieves see easy-to-open, unlocked, and broken windows as easy access points. In fact, according to data from the US Department of Justice, offenders are likely to gain unlawful entry through:

• Open windows doors or windows (27%)
• Unlocked doors or windows (28%)
• Picked locks or windows (2.2%)

Fortunately, having new replacement windows installed will deter intruders. Thanks to the newest window technology that paved way for highly advanced, secure windows with heavy frames, windows are much more difficult to penetrate.

Protection from Fading

It’s nice to let the natural light in, but excessive exposure to the sun can lead to the fading of interiors, including the furniture, carpet, window treatments, and even artwork. While artificial light, visible light, humidity, heat, the age of the fabrics, fabric dyes, and materials all play a part in fading, ultraviolet radiation is responsible for most of the damage.
Protect your home by upgrading your windows to more energy efficient products. Some models can even block most of the radiation.

Lower Carbon Footprint

Although it may not seem obvious, there’s actually a link between your energy use and the environment. When your household consumes less power, you reduce the amount of fumes released by power plants. Therefore, upgrading to new, energy efficient windows will not only help you save on utility costs, but will also help you save the earth by reducing your home’s carbon footprint.

The Key: Proper Installation by Experienced Professionals

A window replacement is one of the smallest home improvement projects, but it can sure deliver significant results. However, even the best windows won’t deliver the savings, aesthetics, comfort, and all the other advantages listed above if they’re installed poorly.

That is why it’s important to call Rocky Mountain Exteriors’ certified window installers, who have the experience and a history of doing business in Idaho.

We have made countless homeowners across Boise and Twin Falls extremely happy with our windows and window replacement services.

Our high quality replacement windows feature the following:

• A multi-chamber design, which produces an effective insulating barrier
• A fusion-welded frame, providing superior structural strength
• A constant force balance system and heavy-duty operating hardware for efficient operation
• Heavy-duty SteelForce™ reinforcement, which ensure extra protection
• Intercept Spacer System that reduces conducted heat loss
• Triple-barrier weather stripping for superior protection from water and air
• Slope sill, which allows water to drain to the exterior

We are currently offering our lowest prices of the year on new windows and installation. 

Receive a free in home window assessment and quote!

Call Today – and experience the Rocky Mountain Exteriors difference.

 

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Roof Maintenance in Idaho: The Why, When and How

The roof is perhaps the most overlooked structural components of the home. Homeowners look at it simply as an umbrella, a shield against storms and the scorching heat of the sun, when in fact, it’s a vital part of a system that plays a major role in the safety and structural integrity of the house.

The roof, therefore, is a major investment. And like all other investments, it needs regular maintenance—especially if you live in Idaho, where rains and storms are a common occurrence.

Why Should I Inspect & Maintain My Roof? 

The domino effect of a neglected Idaho roof…

It’s important to understand that roofs in Idaho are under constant stress from the sun, wind, rain, occasional thunderstorms, and snow. It expands and contracts with the changing of the seasons and every freeze-thaw cycle, gradually breaking down the roofing materials and causing the development of cracks or damaged shingles.

Any roof damage provides an opportunity for leaks and water seeping in, which can then cause additional damage to the roof and all the other structural components of the home, including the walls and the foundation. Moisture corrodes metal components, degrades the mechanical integrity of the insulation system, and adds excessive weight to the roof, which may eventually cause a roofing collapse. Damaged areas may also provide an entrance for pests, such as rats, insects, and even bacterial colonies.

In that sense, therefore, neglecting your roof can lead to a domino effect and can lead to extensive—and expensive—repairs later.

Regularly maintenance of your roof is the only way to extend its service life as well. Sure, roofing technologies have improved significantly over the last few decades, and it has increased the life expectancy of roofs to at least 20 years. But even so, without regular roof maintenance, its expected service life will only likely be 10 to 15 years.

When: How Often Should I Inspect & Perform Maintenance on My Roof?

Roofing maintenance should be done at least twice a year—once before the months with the most severe weather, and once after. In Idaho, maintenance checks are ideally scheduled during:

• Spring (between March and June)
  This is the best time to perform a maintenance check, as the weather forecast will generally change to brighter skies and calmer conditions. This is also the time when leaves have finished falling and the rainy season is right around the corner. It also allows you to address any winter damage that occurred in the past months. Cleaning the stains and removing algae and other organisms during this time will allow the roof to go back to reflecting sunlight efficiently as well.  In some cases, however, spring can be a difficult time for maintenance if the area is experiencing rain. If the yard is wet and soggy, roofing contractors will have a hard time with inspections. Fortunately, there are professional teams willing to go above and beyond, and willing to conduct the task with extra care.

• Fall (between September and December)
  This allows your roof to prepare for the upcoming winter snow and rain.

In between the two major maintenance schedules in a year, it also pays to conduct minor inspections. Flashings will require more frequent maintenance, and the same goes for anything that penetrates the roof, such as the fixings, pipes, and flues, as this ensures “weather-tightness”.

It’s important to note that conducting maintenance checks during the winter, however, is not advisable, as cold weather makes it nearly impossible to properly do specific tasks properly. This includes replacing shingles, since asphalt shingles cannot be sealed properly unless they are warmed to about 70 degrees Fahrenheit. You simply need to keep an eye on the snow and ice.

The How: What Do I look For?

Start by looking for some visual clues…

You may visually identify some roofing issues inside the house. Water stains, mold, and unexplained odors may be an indication of a leak, likely caused by a hole or crack in the roof. You may also inspect the roof outside and from the ground using a pair of binoculars. During your inspection, look for the common issues with all roof types, such as the following:

• Piles of leaves, branches, and other debris on the roof or in valleys (may puncture and tear the membrane, as well as clog drains and create drainage and puddles)
• Curling, buckling, blistering, and missing shingles
• Caulk and rust spots on the flashing
• Worn, cracked, or shrinking rubber around vent pipes
• Formation of moss and lichen

Other issues to look for depend on the type of the roof. Built-up roofs, for instance, may have air pockets, which occur naturally as there is no solid film of bitumen between the piles, allowing the blisters to grow.

In most cases, simple visual inspection is enough to let you know if your roof needs a repair. You may also get up close and personal with the roof using a ladder, but check whether the roof can be safely walked on first. Some roofing materials, like galvanized steel and translucent sheet, cannot support human weight. Others, like clay and concrete tiles and old asbestos roofs, can be damaged when walked on.

The less you walk up on the roof, the better for your house and the safer for you. Your best bet in this case is to leave the task to the professionals.

Rocky Mountain Exteriors: Idaho Roofing Contractors with an Unmatched Level of Service

The roof is not a “build it and forget about it” component of your home. Taking care of it regularly with the help of professional roofing contractors like Rocky Mountain Exteriors is the best way to ensure it will withstand the harsh outdoor elements in Idaho.

We have a team of highly experienced roofing professionals in Boise and Twin Falls who are dedicated to saving you from dealing with a major catastrophe any time of the year. And in the unfortunate event that your roof requires more than just maintenance, we offer repairs and replacement, too.

Call Rocky Mountain Exteriors today. We provide outstanding quality service and dedication to our clients.

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Why You Should Replace Your Windows

Even though your home windows may still look nice, there are important reasons why you should replace your windows. Especially if they are over 15 years old.

In this article we go over the top 5 most important reasons why you should replace your windows and the incredible rewards you receive. You can actually receive back all of the money you spend on home window replacement plus!

Energy Savings

When discussions arise about window replacement, one of the first subjects to spring up is energy savings. Replacing the windows of your entire house can, in fact, save you money on your energy bill. Windows with a multi-chamber design can trap dead air, creating an insulating effect. This prevents cool or warm air from escaping, resulting in more efficient heating and cooling. This results in lower bills. Triple-barrier weather stripping continues by blocking moisture and air. When these two functionalities are combined, the internal temperature of your home is never compromised, resulting in a more stable internal temperature. This not only provides greater comfort for occupants, but lower, and more predictable, heating and cooling bills.

Energy Star claims that adding Energy Star-rated windows can save you up to $500 a year in heating and cooling costs by making your home more energy efficient. According to HGTV, you can expect to recoup 60%-90% of your costs when you invest in energy-efficient windows.

Air Purity – Indoor Air Quality

If your heating and cooling system is regularly maintenanced and your filters are replaced every 30 days, your home will benefit greatly by modern replacement windows. As we discussed with the energy saving qualities, the weather stripping and multi-chamber designs will keep the interior air of your home pure, as it is constantly filtered through your heating and cooling system. When it comes to air quality, air that is able to be thoroughly filtered can lead to fewer illnesses such as colds or the flu.

Tax Deductions & Rebates

If your Idaho home was built or under construction before 2002, can qualify for 100% tax deductions as long as certain criteria are met. Windows are covered, as long as it is a full-home replacement, windows that are at least more energy efficient than the windows before replacement, and storm windows. Also covered is weather stripping and caulking.

Not only does replacing every window of your home provide long-term savings on your energy bill, provide cleaner interior air, but they could also be 100% tax deductible. Not just the cost of materials – but the cost of labor, as well!

Some states take very seriously, home owners who are willing to do their part in lessening their carbon footprint, creating less emissions than the standard household.

Here are links to tax credits and deductions available for window upgrades in the State of Idaho:

$500 Federal Residential Energy Efficiency Tax Credit 

Idaho Income Tax Deduction for Energy Efficiency Upgrades

Idaho Power Energy Efficiciency Rebate

Beauty & Longevity

New windows can provide a completely new look for your home. Whether you are looking for a traditional look, a contemporary feel, or a postmodern approach, brand-new, energy efficient windows are the answer.

With a wide range of style and color options at your disposal, you will have your choice of looks and designs, creating or finishing a new look for your home.

A reputable window replacement and installation service can offer you multiple style options, each consisting of high-quality materials, first-rate installation practices, and cutting-edge warranties.

More than just beauty, however, is longevity. New vinyl windows are durable and long-lasting. The sills are created at a slight angle to allow moisture and condensation to run to the exterior. This in and of itself adds to the life of the windows, and therefore, adds to the overall value of the replacements.

Increased Home Value

These days, home buyers shop for homes with energy efficiency in mind. Old, drafty single-pane windows or windows over 15 years old are a major turn off. In most home buying transactions, homes with outdated windows receive a “price drop” to compensate for the costs of upgrading. The price adjustment usually exceeds the cost of replacing the windows. It really pays you back when selling your home to update your windows.

It Actually Pays You To Replace Your Windows

Between the energy savings, tax credits and increased home value, you are actually paid back more than you invest to replace your home windows. Replacing your windows actually makes you money in the long run.

The only other aspect you want to be sure of is that you hire a window replacement specialist that gives you the best energy efficient windows, perfect installation, offers windows to beautify your home, best warranties, helps you qualify for all the tax deductions and credits available, and does all of this at a fair price!

Rocky Mountain Exteriors provides perfect window replacement services to all Boise and Twin Falls Idaho areas. We are Rated A+ with Better Business Bureau and offer you the best windows, warranties, and workmanship available. You receive a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee.

Get a free window replacement assessment today! Call: (208) 955-6818

View our Boise Window Replacement Services

View our Twin Falls Window Replacement Services

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Get the Very Best Triple Pane Windows for the Same Price as Dual Pane Windows! Save 40%…

Due to a special factory incentive, we are able to offer the same price for Triple pane windows as Dual Pane until Friday at 5 pm.

You save 40% on the very best windows you can install in your home.

Schedule Your FREE Assessment!
Only 2 Days Left! Factory incentive ends 5/25/2016

Benefits of Triple Pane Home Windows:

– Heavier duty frames are more durable and last longer
– 20%-30% more energy savings
– 20%-30% more outside noise reduction
– Usually 40% more in cost

Your Window & Door Replacement Experts!

Rocky Mountain Exteriors is a certified window contractor Serving all Boise, Meridian, Nampa, Caldwell and Twin Falls areas. We offer complete and perfect window replacement, sliding patio door, and french door replacement and installation services.

• Highest quality windows & doors available
• Fast Response. Free in Home Estimates
• Best pricing
• Highest quality workmanship & attention to detail
• Best warranties
• 100% Satisfaction Guarantee

Schedule Your FREE Assessment!

Download Our Cathedral Series Windows Brochure

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When to Consider Having Your Roof Replaced

Roof Repair or Roof Replacement, Which should I do?

Having your roof replaced may seem like an expensive ordeal. However, replacing your roof when it is needed can actually save you money in the long-run. In fact, it can cost you much, much more by not following through with the repairs your home needs. This is especially true when it comes to your roof.

Allowing your roof to wear down and become damaged without the necessary repairs can lead to expensive water damage (which can lead to damaged electrical systems, drywall replacements, and even window replacements – and more), infestation of insects, rodents, and birds, and more.

When you decide against the expense of having your roof replaced, you leave your home – and your family – exposed to the elements and higher costs.

In many cases, homes that are older or have had numerous damages to the roof get passed on to the new home owners. When this happens, sometimes it’s hard to tell whether or not the roof should be replaced, or repaired.

Maybe the question isn’t the cost of replacement (which might be a lot less than you think), maybe it is whether to repair your roof, or have your roof replaced.

Here are some red flags to keep in mind when deciding between ongoing repairs and just having your roof replaced.

The Age of Your Roof

When it comes to repair vs replacement, age plays a big factor in the process. Composite or asphalt shingle roofs are known as standard or traditional roof tops here in the United States. While these roof types are sturdy, most should be replaced every 20 years, or if they have been badly or repeatedly damaged. It also helps to know when the last time the roof was replaced. Even if it is fairly good condition, the materials used to build out your roof breakdown over time. Even if your roof “looks” good, if it has been 20 years, it probably needs to be replaced.

The State of Your Shingles

The state of your shingles is another big factor in whether or not you should replace your roof. If your shingles are curling or buckling, it could be a big indicator that you need to replace your roof.

While some spots may seem acceptable, they may be signs of a much larger problem. If it appears that your rooftop has lost a large amount of granules, or that buckling and curling is rampant – or if you just are not sure; contacting a licensed and reputable roofing contractor like Rocky Mountain Exteriors is your best bet.

While you might find that a simple repair may be in order, you just might find that the problem is more severe and that you can avoid related costs by simply replacing your roof now.

Other Things to Consider

When it comes to the state of your roof, there are also many other things to consider.

Are you finding handfuls of shingle granules in your gutter? Do you have tar or aged metal flashing around your chimney? Are you experiencing chronic leaks that lead to blown circuit breakers, getting shocked by light switches, or discoloration in your ceiling?

If you said yes to any of these questions, you may need a brand new roof.

In these instances, you want to make sure of a few things. You want to be sure that your roofing contractor is rated A+ by the Better Business Bureau; they are licensed bonded and insured, they offer the best materials and workmanship available; they are dedicated to job safety and compliance; and their work is 100% guaranteed.

Rocky Mountain Exteriors of Boise and Twin Falls, ID are all above the above and offer a free on location roofing assessment/inspection and quote to repair or replace your roof! They also offer very affordable pricing and low interest financing for total roof replacement.

Get a free roof inspection today! Call: (208) 955-6818

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Rocky Mountain Exteriors Receives Roofing Excellence Awards

From: GAF – North America’s Largest Roofing Manufacturer

BOISE, ID (03/15/2016) – GAF, North America’s largest roofing manufacturer, is pleased to announce that Rocky Mountain Exteriors of Boise, Idaho is one of only one-hundred twenty-seven roofing contractors in the country to receive all three of the prestigious 2016 GAF Master Elite Excellence Awards.

These coveted industry awards recognize Rocky Mountain Exteriors dedication to quality roof system installations, and their commitment to continuous improvement and superior customer service.

Most consumers recognize that choosing a roofing contractor can be a confusing and sometimes risky decision. In fact, the Better Business Bureau lists roofing as one of the highest inquiry categories nationwide.

As a factory-certified Master Elite™ Contractor, Rocky Mountain Exteriors has been carefully pre-screened by GAF. In fact, only 2% of the roofing contractors in the country have earned GAF’s Master Elite status – a distinction that truly sets them apart from the rest, and ensures that Rocky Mountain Exteriors is dedicated to helping every customer make their best and safest roofing decision.

As a GAF Master Elite Contractor, they are also dedicated to continuous improvement and training through access to CARE (the Center for the Advancement of Roofing Excellence). CARE is a non-profit educational institute supported by GAF and dedicated to “changing an industry through excellence in education.”

Congratulations Todd and Crew!

Actual Letter from GAF

Learn more about our roofing services

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