Beware of Home Improvement Scams

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  Recent articles in Angie’s List monthly magazine and in Parade magazine reminded me of how easy it is for con artists to convince homeowners that exterior work is needed on their home.  In fact, a recent article noted that roofing scam complaints were up 60% with the Better Business Bureau. Here is what could
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WOOD REPLACEMENT

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One of the most frustrating aspects of replacing a roof is when we find that sheathing is bad and must be replaced.  Wood replacement is really the only unknown left in our work orders.  We don’t like unknowns any more than our customers. The best case scenario for us is that the sheathing is fine.  That
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ON THE SPOT ROOF REPAIRS

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When customers call our office to schedule a repair estimate, they often ask whether we can repair their roof at the same time.  The answer is a resounding NO.  Here’s why, and what you should consider when making that request: When you call for an estimate, you probably are not aware of what the problem
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BLACK OR WHITE SHINGLES

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As roofing contractors, we are frequently asked whether there is an energy difference in shingling with white or black shingles.  We advise our customers that, in our opinion, the biggest influence on roof temperature is climate and ventilation.  There is no appreciable effect on energy consumption because we live in a moderate climate zone.  Attic
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SUMMER MAINTENANCE TIPS FOR ROOFS, GUTTERS AND SIDING

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Summer is here, and the flowers, trees and gardens are in full bloom.  Make it a point to inspect your roof to make sure that there are no tree branches hovering over your roof.  You should inspect your roof every few weeks, particularly after heavy summer downpours. Here’s what you need to know:  If tree
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CICADA WARNING

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MAKE SURE YOUR GUTTERS ARE CLEAN AND PROTECTED FROM THE CICADA BOMBARDMENT. The cicadas are returning in full blast!  In past years, our customers have called exasperated by the cicada shells that are clogging up their gutters.  If left unattended, an unbearable smell develops until the gutters are cleaned out and the shells removed.  This
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CHOOSING A TRUSTWORTHY CONTRACTOR

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The best prevention in getting a good roof is to hire the right contractor to begin with.  Your roof is probably the most critical part of your home:  it shields and protects you, your family, and the contents of your home.   Its replacement needs careful consideration.  Think of the weather conditions we have endured in
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UNDERSTANDING CONTRACTOR CREDENTIALS

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Before hiring a contractor to replace your roof, siding, windows or doors, the most important part of decision-making should be made after vetting any contractor you are considering hiring. Legitimate contractors pay a great deal of money to be in compliance with the governing state code and the corresponding insurance requirements.  It makes it very
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Checklist Following the Rain/Snow Mixture in March 2013

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This has been a relatively mild winter season in Northern Virginia. Hopefully the snow, ice and rain we experienced this week is behind us, and we can look forward to spring weather. As we give thanks for not experiencing a jumbo snowfall, get serious about evaluating how the exterior of your home held up over
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