Federal Residential Tax Credit Available for Energy Efficiency Upgrades

Homeowners qualify for a Federal Tax Credit in 2016 for having upgraded certain heating, cooling, water heating, windows, doors and roofing systems in their home.

The Consolidated Appropriations Act, signed in December 2015, retroactively renewed this tax credit effective January 1, 2015, expiring again on December 31, 2016. Any qualified equipment installed in 2015 or 2016 is eligible for this credit.

As in previous years, the cumulative maximum amount of tax credit that can be claimed by a taxpayer in all years combined is $500. If a taxpayer has already claimed a tax credit of $500 for purchases made in any previous year, they are ineligible for additional tax credits for any new equipment purchases.

Qualifying Upgrades

Energy Efficiency Improvements

This credit applies to energy efficiency improvements in the building envelope of existing homes and for the purchase of high-efficiency heating, cooling and water-heating equipment. Efficiency improvements or equipment must serve a dwelling in the United States that is owned and used by the taxpayer as a primary residence. The maximum tax credit for all improvements made in 2011 – 2016 is $500. The cap includes tax credits for any improvements made in any previous year. If a taxpayer claimed $500 or more of these tax credits in any previous year, any purchases made in 2011 – 2016 will be ineligible for a tax credit.

Building Envelope Improvements

Owners of existing homes may receive a tax credit worth 10% of the cost of upgrading the efficiency of the building’s envelope. Installation (labor) costs are not included and the credit is capped at $500 for all improvements. To be eligible for the credit, the improvement must meet the prescriptive requirements established for it under the 2009 International Energy Conservation Code (including supplements).

The following improvements are eligible for the tax credit:

• Insulation materials and systems designed to reduce a home’s heat loss or gain
• Exterior doors and windows (including skylights) — no more than $200 in total credits can be claimed for windows in years 2006 – 2016 Equipment must meet version 6.0 Energy Star program requirements.
• Pigmented metal roofs designed to reduce heat gain, and asphalt roofs with appropriate cooling granules, which are Energy Star certified.

Here are links to more details:

http://programs.dsireusa.org/system/program/detail/1274

https://www.energystar.gov/about/federal_tax_credits

If you have upgraded any of these systems and meet the requirements above, be sure to apply for this tax credit.

 

Are You in Need of New Energy Efficient Windows or Roofing for Your Home at Affordable Pricing and Outstanding Workmanship?

Replacing your windows, entry doors or roofing will save you money in heating and cooling costs, improve the value of your home, improve the beauty of your home, and can qualify for a Federal Tax Credit.

It’s not to late in 2016 to have your windows, doors and/or roofing replaced and qualify for a 100% tax deduction. New windows, doors or roofing installation is fast and it’s the perfect time of year to have them done. 

Rocky Mountain Exteriors is a premier certified window installation contractor, door provider, and roofing contractor serving all Boise, Treasure Valley, and Twin Fall areas.  We offer the highest quality windows and workmanship available, at affordable pricing.

Our window features and benefits are perfect for energy efficiency upgrades, and we know the energy codes to help you receive your tax deduction.

Windows by Rocky Mountain Exteriors include a fusion-welded frame and sashes to provide superior structural strength and create a permanent barrier against air and moisture infiltration.  The Intercept Spacer System helps reduce conducted heat loss through the window and is better at retaining insulating gas than conventional designs.  Our triple-barrier weather stripping between the sash and jamb provides superior protection from air and water infiltration.  An additional benefit is the sloped sill that helps prevent water and air infiltration, forcing water to drain to the exterior of the window.

Our exterior entry doors are the very best and the only Energy Star Certified doors available: ProVia

ProVia has been crafting the finest entry doors for more than 35 years and is committed to making doors The Professional Way. We also provide perfect door installation and replacement services.

Our roofing services offer the very best materials, best workmanship, and best warranties. 50 year unconditional warranties on our roofing products. You receive a fast, affordable, and hassle free roofing experience.

Why You’ll Love Working with us:

• Licensed, bonded and insured
• BBB member with A+ rating
• Certified Window Contractor
• Locally Boise owned and operated
• Debt free. We pay our suppliers within 30 days
• We provide the best materials, workmanship, and warranties available
• Experienced project leaders, estimators, and installers
• Committed to clean job sites & fast efficient completion
• Dedicated to your safety – every employee who enters your home will have passed a criminal background check
• Great, fast communication with you
• All work is 100% guaranteed

Receive a FREE in Home Estimate

We’ll provide you with a full assessment, highest energy efficient choices, and extremely affordable options.

Give us a call today! (208) 955-6818

Serving Boise, Meridian, Nampa, Caldwell, Eagle, Emmett, Fruitland, Middleton, Mountain Home, Jerome, Twin Falls and Burley Idaho.

 

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5 Common Signs You Need Emergency Roofing Repair

There are certain home repairs that, when mentioned, will send the average homeowner into high anxiety. Foundation issues, termite damage, plumbing failure, and roofing repair all fit the bill, largely because of the anticipated price tag associated with such problems.

However, you cannot afford to ignore roofing repair issues or you risk further damage and even higher costs. How can you tell if you’re suffering a roofing emergency or not?

Here are a 5 common signs that you should call your roofing contractor ASAP:

1.) Missing or Damaged Elements

Whether your roof is made from asphalt shingles, wooden shakes, clay tile, corrugated metal, or slate, it’s important to stay on top of inspections (both annually and following rough seasonal weather conditions) to ensure that everything is in ship shape.

If you’re comfortable on a ladder, you can always peek up top on your own. For annual inspections, you should call qualified experts in roof repair in Boise. At Rocky Mountain Exteriors, we offer free roofing inspections. However, it doesn’t take an authority on roofing to see when elements are missing or damaged.

Any time you notice that shingles, tiles, flashing or other elements are missing or damaged, it’s important that you call in a pro for emergency roofing repair. This will help you avoid further damage and costs.

2.) Leaks

If you find a leak in your home and trace it back to the roof, emergency repair is a must. Leaks that go untreated can lead to serious issues like mold and rot that may compromise the health of your family along with the integrity of your structure.

An experienced roofer that specializes in roofing in Boise should be able to uncover the source of the leak, fix the problem, and even handle some types of remediation for damages caused by the leak (although probably not mold or pests).

3.) Pest Infestation

Pest problems can cause untold damage to your roof. This is the case whether you’re dealing with insects like termites, ants, or bees or animals like rodents, raccoons, or birds. When you discover a pest infestation in your attic or on your roof, your first call should be to an exterminator, quickly followed by contacting your preferred roofing contractor.

You cannot allow pest problems to persevere or you risk untold damages or even roof collapse. Get rid of the pests and repair the damage for the safety of your home and family.

4.) Holes

Finding a hole where the rain gets in is an obvious emergency situation. Holes could be caused by severe weather (hail, snow, etc.), tree branches or other objects falling on your roof, or pest damages, just for example.

Regardless of the cause, however, the results are the same: an unwanted ingress of the elements and outside debris. It doesn’t matter if a hole is small or large. All can cause damage to your home.

Some holes are big enough to see on your own while others could remain hidden until they’re uncovered during your annual inspection. Either way, a speedy fix is a must to ensure that no further damage occurs as a result.

5.) Extreme Weather Conditions

If your roof is new or you keep it well-maintained, extreme weather may not be cause to frantically dial up your preferred roofing contractors in Boise, especially when extreme seasonal weather is fairly common in the Boise and Twin Falls areas. However, if weather conditions go beyond what we’re used to, it’s definitely a good idea to have your roof inspected for damage.

For example, snow and ice may not be particular cause for concern in our area. When a blizzard rolls through that dumps heavier than normal snow on your roof or you notice especially bad ice dam activity, you should consider a professional inspection.

Or, receiving our normal seasonal rain or downpours usually will not create a problem. When we have exceptionally high winds and hail, you’ll want to have your roof checked afterwards. The point is that you’re probably well aware of weather patterns in our region, so you’ll know when storms are extreme enough to warrant emergency inspection. It’s best to have a roof inspection completed after any extreme, abnormal weather.

Has it been awhile since you’ve had a roof inspection?

Rocky Mountain Exteriors is a #1 rated professional roofing contractor in Boise , Meridian, and Twin Falls.

We offer free roofing inspections to go over all of the areas above plus 15 other crucial items.

You’ll receive a complete report of any roofing issues you may have, and how to repair them before any further damage & costs.

Absolutely free and with no obligation

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

 

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Bay Vs. Bow Windows: Which Is the Right Fit for Your Home?

Many homeowners relish the idea expanding their natural light and view of the great outdoors, and increasing their curb appeal. Of course, this doesn’t necessarily mean you want to install a glass garage door in your living room in order to create one of the indoor/outdoor living spaces that have gained popularity of late.

You might be looking for an option with more classic appeal that better suits a traditional style of architecture. The good news is that you have two great options when it comes to upgrades and window replacement in Boise or Twin Falls: bay or bow windows.

If you want to kill two birds with one stone, installing bay or bow windows in your home will not only give you a better view, but also improve the appeal of your home’s exterior. The only question is: should you opt for bay or bow windows? Which option provides the best fit for your home? Here are a few factors to consider before you decide.

How are They Different?

Bay and bow windows are similar in that they both project out from the exterior walls of your structure. The main difference is that bay windows tend to consist of three (or possibly more) windows that angle sharply outward, sometimes at as much as a 90-degree angle.

Bow windows, on the other hand, are somewhat less pronounced. They often consist of 4-6 windows that form a more gradual arch out away from the exterior walls, with angles that are far less sharp. Both can help to make rooms appear brighter and more spacious, provide extra seating, and add visual interest to your home.

Your Goals

You probably have several goals when you start looking for new windows in Boise, Seattle, or Los Angeles. Perhaps you want to allow for more natural light to come in, or you’d like to get a better view of your beautiful landscaping or the vistas outside your abode.

You may be interested in adding seating and/or storage, as well as making your interior more spacious. Of course, many homeowners also aspire to improve their curb appeal, especially if their facade is particularly dull, without any defining features to add visual interest.

In truth, selecting the right windows to add to your home could help you to accomplish several or even all of these goals. That said, you need to prioritize. For example, bay windows extend a bit further out from your home than their bow counterparts, allowing more latitude to add comfortable seating and ample storage.

Bow windows, on the other hand, are somewhat larger, but more flush, so you’re more likely to improve the view and the natural light coming in. Understanding your goals and priorities can help you to choose the perfect window upgrades for your home.

Available Space

Because bow windows include more windows, they tend to be larger than bay options. For this reason, you need to measure available space to ensure that the windows you want will fit in your home.

In most cases, any large picture window can be upgraded to either a bay or a bow window, or you could even create a larger hole in wall to accommodate bigger windows. However, having measurements at your disposal when you begin shopping for new windows will ensure that you don’t end up with a product that won’t fit your house.

Home Style

Bay and bow windows are most commonly seen in Victorian architecture. However, like many desirable architectural features, they have crossed over and tailored to suit other design styles. If you love the look of bay and bow windows and the benefits they confer, speak with a qualified contractor, designer, architect, or window specialist to determine which style of window will best suit your structure.

Cost

There may also be cost differences between purchasing bay or bow windows. This could depend largely on the scope of the project, though, including not only whether you choose bay or bow, but also the type of windows you select (casement, double-hung, picture, etc.) and the size you select. Take the time to comparison shop so you can stick to your budget and find the perfect windows to complement and improve your home.

Rocky Mountain Exteriors specializes in window replacement. We offer the very best replacement windows, styles, workmanship, and warranties available in the Boise and Twin Falls areas.

Schedule Your FREE Assessment!
 

 

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5 Simple Roof Maintenance Tips to Help Prevent Leaks

Help Stop Roof Leaks Before They Start

As a homeowner, you have a variety of annual maintenance tasks.

You’ll have to hire a technician to inspect, clean, and repair your HVAC annually, a plumber to flush your water heater, and of course, a roofing specialist to inspect and maintain your roof.

Unfortunately, while most people are well aware of the first two annual maintenance tasks, many fail to perform the third.

Certainly your roof comes with a warranty; asphalt shingles are generally guaranteed for twenty years while slate could come with a warranty of up to a hundred.

The problem is that a warranty isn’t going to prevent leaks, even if it will pay for repairs after the fact.

You need to do your part to protect your home and keep it secure against the elements.

After all, a leak damages more than just your roof. If could also seep down through your home, causing warping, rot, mold, foundation problems, and even serious structural issues over time if left untreated.

In short, it could become a far more expensive problem than a simple roof repair. You need to catch leaks early, or better yet, prevent them entirely.

When you hire professionals for an annual inspection, maintenance, and roof repair in Boise, you’ll ensure a longer lasting roof, and prevent possible major costs from water damage.

There are also simple preventive measures you can take on your own.

5 Simple Tips to Help Prevent Roof Leaks:

1.) Clean Gutters and Downspouts

Rain gutters and downspouts should be cleaned annually.

With little more than a ladder, some gloves, and a hose you can clear away sticks, leaves, and other debris that have been blown in by seasonal storms.

It’s important to do this before winter weather hits.

The last thing you want is water, snow, and ice backing up onto roofing and causing damages and leaks.

A clear system of gutters and downspouts ensures that rain and snow can be safely funneled off your roof and away from your house.

If this job looks to be more than you want to do yourself, there are gutter cleaning services you can hire to do this for you.

2.) Look for Obvious Issues

Most signs of damage and impending leaks are relatively easy to spot.

Mainly, you want to look for missing or damaged shingles, shingles that are starting to curl or peel, or tiles that are loose or cracked.

Many homeowners simply don’t think to visually inspect their roof.

Just taking the time to do this can help prevent major water damage issues to your home.

3.) Check the Flashing

Flashing is a seal that goes around chimneys, vents, skylights, etc. to ensure that water doesn’t get in around these high leak risk areas.

Flashing can begin to deteriorate or peel over time with exposure to the elements.

Your flashing may need repair or replacement before other parts of your roof, such as shingles.

4.) Watch for Seasonal Problems

Living in the Boise and Twin Falls areas, we experiences inclement winter weather.

You’ll want to watch for problems inherent to rough storms. For example, you’ll want to watch for ice dams that can form on the edge of the roof as water freezes.

Ice dams form when heat escaping through the roof melts snow, causing it to run off toward the edge of the roof where it subsequently freezes, forming a lip that prevents further runoff and continues to build.

If it grows too heavy, it could put strain on your roof and even cause a collapse.

But the ice dam will also cause water to back up under your shingles and cause leakage/water damage beneath.

Watch for roofing issues during harsh winter weather and harsh summer storms.

5.) Inspect the Attic

Even if the exterior of your roof looks like it’s in great shape, the only way to ensure there are no leaks is to get in the attic.

Look for signs of a trouble such as moisture, staining, mold, and rot.

An attic inspection should be performed at least once per year or even more frequently if we’ve had a severe storms.

Would you like a free roofing inspection?

Rocky Mountain Exteriors is a #1 rated professional roofing contractor in Boise and Twin Falls.

We offer free roofing inspections to go over all of the areas above, and over 15 other items. You’ll receive a complete report of any roofing issues you may have, and how to repair them. Absolutely free and with no obligation

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

 

The post 5 Simple Roof Maintenance Tips to Help Prevent Leaks appeared first on Rocky Mountain Exteriors.

6 Signs That the Windows in Your Home Need to Be Replaced

Once windows are installed in your home, chances are you won’t give them a second thought until you start to experience problems. Over time, your windows can suffer the wear and tear of age, just like any other part of your home.

Age alone may not be enough to clue you in on when windows should be replaced as some products are bound to have a longer usable life than others. However, there are plenty of signs that could inform you of when your windows need to be repaired or replaced.

If you’re worried about the performance of your windows and the effects on your comfort and convenience, here are just a few signs that will warn you when the windows in your home are due for replacement.

1.) Seating Issues

One of the most common reasons for window replacement in Boise is seating issues, as in how the window is placed, or seated, in the frame. Issues are often caused by something as simple and commonplace as a structure settling over time. Seating issues could also be blamed on deterioration, poor manufacturing, cheap materials, or even weather conditions (heating and cooling of air that causes materials to expand and contract), just for example.  What you’ll notice when you have seating issues is trouble opening, closing, or locking and unlocking windows. If your windows seem to stick in one position, they don’t move freely on a track, or you have to apply unusual force to lock or unlock windows, it may be time for replacement.

2.) Drafts

If you start to notice cold or hot drafts around windows (depending on the season), the problem could be as simple as deteriorated or inadequate weather stripping. It’s best to try this simple and inexpensive fix first. If that doesn’t stop the drafts, chances are you need to consider replacing your windows in order to achieve greater comfort in your home.

3.) Condensation Between Panes

Windows in Boise need to stand up to the onslaught of winter weather, including low temperatures, snow, and storms. For this reason, most homeowners install double-pane glass or at least add storm windows seasonally.If you start to notice condensation forming between panes of glass, it means you no longer have a tight seal in place. This is pretty normal for storm windows that aren’t a permanent fixture, but if you have double-pane glass it’s the kiss of death in terms of efficiency and comfort.When moisture creeps in, it means the barrier of air that adds insulation to your windows is virtually gone. This is definitely a situation in which upgrading to new windows in Boise is a must.

4.) Deterioration or Damage

There are obvious signs of damage to your windows and frames that you can keep an eye out for. Naturally, a cracked, chipped, or broken pane of glass is in need of replacement. You can also watch for cracks, rotting, or other damage to frames.Both windows and frames need to be in good condition if you want them to do their job and protect your home from the elements. Taking the time to check them annually or when you start to notice problems like drafts could give you the information you need to seek professionals for window replacement in Boise.

5.) Increase in Outside Noise

When your windows are compromised in some way, you might start to notice the noise level in your home rising. If you think you’re hearing more traffic noise, neighborhood parties, or other forms of noise pollution, it may not be just in your head. There’s a chance it’s time to upgrade to new windows.

6.) Rising Heating and Cooling Costs

The cost of gas and electricity used to heat and cool your home interior are bound to increase incrementally due to inflation. However, if you start to notice spikes in your utility bills that are well beyond the average seasonal increases, you could be dealing with waning efficiency where your windows are concerned.  Check HVAC equipment first to make sure the problem isn’t there. Replacing your windows is not without expense, especially if you decide to upgrade from single- to double-paned options. However, the fact that you could see subsequent decreases in your heating and cooling costs will help you to recoup some of the up-front expenses over time.  In addition to saving you money, such upgrades can also help to make your interior temperature easier to regulate, allowing you to maintain a consistently comfortable atmosphere for your family.

Home window replacement is one of the smallest home improvement projects, but yields one of the highest return on investment. With the available tax credits, home value increase, and energy savings, you can actually recover 100% of the money you would spend to replace your existing windows.

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, Meridian 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: 209-955-6818

Experience the Rocky Mountain Exteriors difference! 

Serving all Boise, Meridian, and Twin Falls Idaho Areas

View our Boise Window Replacement Services
View our Twin Falls Window Replacement Services

Did you know you can recover 100% of the cost to replace your windows? Here’s how…

The post 6 Signs That the Windows in Your Home Need to Be Replaced appeared first on Rocky Mountain Exteriors.

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.

 

The post Window Replacement: A Mini But Mighty Remodel appeared first on Rocky Mountain Exteriors.

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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