Best Value Remodeling – Remodeling Magazine’s 2015 Winners

Posted by: Ken Mariotti

Each year Remodeling Magazine releases it’s Cost vs. Value Report. The report compares year by year changes in job costs with Realtor’s perceptions of what those jobs bring to a home’s price at resale. The 2015 Report measured 36 projects nationally and by region. Three projects that exceeded 2014 values stood out in this year’s report, they are, steel entry doors, roofing, and vinyl siding replacement. The cost-value ratio expresses resale value as a percentage of construction cost. In the north central area, steel entry door replacement returned 86.3% of the replacement cost at the time the

It’s not surprising to see these three replacement jobs on the list of most return for your investment given the rising perception nationwide of the value of curb appeal. If you’re considering undertaking any of these remodeling projects in 2016, now is the time to start your research and here are a few things to consider as you make your decisions.

Upgrade the front door

Steel Door with Sidelites

Your entry door is a key element of design so use this opportunity to capture the look you’ve dreamed of. Modernize your home with a contemporary door, add architectural detail with a craftsman style, or replicate a historical period with a traditional door. In the report, steel entry doors return the greatest value on your investment and an insulated steel door will likely save on energy costs. Wood and fiberglass doors generally cost more than a steel door and so, rank below the lower cost steel in the Report, but we’d recommend comparing the performance of different materials when you do your research. Lastly, once you’ve decided on the type of entry door you want, make sure you get the perfect fit. The most reliable method is to remove any interior or exterior trim to expose the true opening and then measure the width, height, door thickness, hinge locations, hinge width and height and handle center. Better yet, let us help before you order your door.

Replace your old roof

Red Metal Porch Roof - Pinterest

Aesthetics, materials cost, weight and installation requirements are key considerations when researching replacement roofing. A square is the basic unit of measurement in roofing, you may win a Trivia game with this little known fact. One square is 100 square feet, making a square the equivalent of 10 feet x 10 feet. A typical two story house, 2,000 sq. ft. with gable roof will consist of less than 1,500 sq. ft. or 15 squares. The cost for your replacement roof will primarily depend on the condition of the existing roof and shape of the roof. Asphalt is the least expensive and slate (most durable) is the most expensive material, with wood, tile and cement, and metal somewhere in between. Asphalt is the most popular because it’s economical and easier to install. When choosing roofing material, the slope of your roof and the weight of the shingles are key factors to consider. Add flair to the look by adding a red metal roof over a porch like you see in the photo. When you’re ready, let us help you select the appropriate material and design for your roof style.

Add flair with new siding

Alside Prodigy Siding

Vinyl siding has been the siding of choice now for many years since technological advances made it both functional and stylish. Replace ugly or damaged siding and you’ll change the entire look of your home’s exterior. When replacing siding, consider adding a few architectural elements such as crown moldings, beaded soffits or decorative trim. Numerous vinyl siding styles and colors, including custom colors are available. When you’re ready for a change, visit our showroom to see and touch these beautiful products and learn about installation.

Tips for Hiring a Professional Roofer in Chicago

You may need a roofer to perform various types of jobs, like replacing a roof, installing a roof, or repairing a damaged roof. You need someone who is experienced and has a license. You need someone who is capable of performing complex roofing tasks and abides by the state codes. Any small mistake in hiring a roofer can lead to serious consequences, whether it is a waste of your hard earned money or time, or a shoddy job that fails to live up to your expectations, or even simply a careless job that puts your home at risk. Here are a few essential factors to consider when hiring a roofing contractor.
 

Attention to detail: If your potential roofer shows attention to details, such as professional conduct, wearing proper attire, and answering your calls, then he is worthy of hiring. Hire a roofer who has your best interest at heart and will help you get value for your money.
 

Experience: Experience is one of the key factors that should not be disregarded. The roofer should have a lot of experience handling roofing issues of all kinds. Be cautious of inexperienced contractors, as they may not deliver proper work. You want a good deal and you may get disappointed when you don’t get it. Thus, do a background-check on the roofer; review his track records, and relationship with workers and clients.
 

Knowledgeable: You do not want to spend money on someone who isn’t well-informed about the latest trends in the roofing industry, such as styles, materials, etc. The roofer should know how to utilize the latest technology to check and fix problems that match your needs.
 

Prices and Quoting: Pricing is the single most important aspect, and one need to consider in any investment or purchase. And this applies when choosing roofing contractors, as well. However, what is more important is getting a reliable and accurate price estimate from your potential roofer. You must know in advance how much you need to pay so that you can prepare your budget.
 

Insurance: Make sure the roofer has a valid roofing insurance. This will ensure that you are protected against all kinds of risks. Also, you will be assured that this is a genuine roofer who understands what he is doing.
 

References: Getting the best of the best roofing contractor can be challenging. To find the best roofer in town, you should try to talk to your coworkers, neighbors, family, friends and other trusted connections to get the names of top roofers in the area. Additionally, to ensure you are getting the best roofer and the best price quote possible, get several bids from at least three different roofing contractors. This will help to make better comparisons in order to choose the right contractor.
 

Warranties: Although it isn’t a necessity, it is vitally important to hire a contractor who offers a warranty on their roofing products.