CEDAR DECKS

Aesthetic: Cedar has a beautiful natural aesthetic and a distinct grain.  When left untreated, cedar fades to a soft gray. When treated with stain, the rich reddish hue of cedar can be preserved for an even more attractive result.

Maintenance: To retain the natural color of cedar decks, you must clean and reseal them every other year.

Durability: Cedar is naturally resistant to damage caused by rain, direct sunlight, and termites.  In general cedar decking tends to stay straight and will like flat over the life of the deck.  Thus, most cedar decks have a lifespan of 15 – 20 years; however, this can be shorter for lower-level decks or those under shaded overhangs that make them slow to dry out. Cedar is also soft – meaning that furniture being dragged around the deck could result in scratches and other surface damage.

Bottom Line: Cedar decks are perfect for homeowners willing to put in a little more maintenance or those concerned with a beautiful and natural deck appearance.

GREEN TREATED DECKS

Aesthetic: Green treated decking is known for its sustainability and cost efficiency – not its amazing aesthetic.  While it may look fine at installation, it will never compare to the natural beauty of other decking options.

Maintenance: Like cedar decks, it is recommended that green treated decks be cleaned and resealed every other year to help maintain their aesthetic.

Durability: Green treated lumber is known for having a long and useful lifespan.  As such treated decks can typically be expected to last up to 40 years.  Unfortunately green treated decks tend to be full of moisture and, as a result, they will shrink unevenly and twist while drying.  So, while your deck may last for quite some time, it might not look great doing so.

Bottom Line: Green treated decks can cost over fifteen-percent less than the average cedar deck.  They also have a great lifespan.  With that in mind if cost efficiency and sustainability are your prime concerns, a green treated deck may be the perfect fit for you.  However, keep in mind that the deck’s durability and maintaining the deck’s aesthetics may prove challenging.

To learn about the possibilities of adding a deck addition to your home, contact Excel Builders!

Age: First and foremost, roofs age and have a finite lifespan just like anything else.  As such, the years of service behind your roof are an important consideration.  Any roof older than ten years should be carefully inspected annually and any roof over twenty years of age should be scheduled for replacement.

Lifting, Cracked, Curled or Missing Shingles: Bending, twisting or cracked shingles can be the result of a lack of ventilation or it could be a sign that you have broken or missing fasteners.  In addition, curling and buckling makes your roof especially susceptible to high winds, meaning that even if it is not damaged now, it may be in the near future unless a repair is made.

Smooth Areas: Smooth areas on your roof are typically those in which the granulars have fallen off.  An excessive loss of grains and particles in aging shingles can indicate the need for replacement.  However, note that on newly applied shingles, a certain number of loose granules is also normal.

Attic Sheath Staining: Dark water spots on the ceiling of your attic can be caused by leaks in the roofing system and could be another sign of failure.  From inside your attic look for dark spots or trails, stained or matted insulation, or sunlight shining in from the outside.

Recalls: Be sure to keep your eyes and ears open for any recalls regarding your roofing system.  The best way to do so is to check-in periodically with the manufacturer’s website for any recall information.

Our client requested this wall be removed so the ceiling would be flush across the width of the home. Once the kitchen demolition was complete we were left with the load bearing section of the short wall and a beam holding the structure up. In the ceiling was additional framing supporting the original addition.

To start the project we met with our client’s engineer, who had calculated the beam size needed to carry the load of the ceiling for approximately 24 feet with only support beams located on each end, which will be hidden in the walls. Once we had the plans from the engineer we went to the city and had the city approve the plans.

Before starting the construction of removing the existing framing we ordered a steel beam that was 24 feet long and the lumber that would be needed to hold the steel beam up once in place. At that same time we also ordered the lumber needed to build temporary walls to hold up the existing structure once the framing was removed to make room for the new steel beam.

After the steel beam was delivered the first thing we did was start removing the drywall inside the house, to give us access to the existing framing. We then moved the steel beam into the house – this beam weighed approximately 850 pounds, so it took a little of our teams muscle power to get it in.

After the drywall was removed, we built our temporary walls  and removed the existing framing. Once that was complete we hoisted the new beam into place and supported it at each end with approved framing structure columns.

The next step was to complete the required framing inspection from the city – which we are happy to report we passed!

Any time you are removing or planning on removing a load bearing wall (or framing structures) in your house the proper steps are to:

• have an engineer plan and calculate what you need to carry the load of the  structure you are removing
• take the plan to the city
• file for and obtain necessary city permits

The city will require a framing inspection after the new beam is in place to ensure that everything was completed per the plans that were submitted to them when filing for the permit.

Whenever we are removing a load bearing structure from a house we always properly plan, make safety a priority, and ensure that the integrity of the house is not compromised in any way. This is done by ensuring that all the necessary components are put in place from the beginning.

One common question we often receive is – “what is the cost associate with removing a load bearing wall and installing a support system to open up the room?”  Generally, you can expect the starting costs to be around $5000.  Obviously the cost will vary based upon the size of the wall being removed, but this is a good starting estimate.

As you can see from the pictures, removing a load bearing wall in your home is a fairly involved process.  However, removing the wall and opening up the existing space in your home can give your home a whole new look!

VINYL WINDOWS

Aesthetic: Vinyl windows are made from polyvinyl chloride or PVC (the same material used to make plumbing and electrical pipes).  Vinyl windows are available in a variety of colors.  However, because they cannot be painted, exact color matches to the exterior of your home may be difficult to come by.  In addition, because vinyl cannot be shaped into ultra thin pieces, it can sometimes appear to have a heavier, more plastic aesthetic.

Maintenance & Durability: Vinyl windows are low-maintenance, requiring little to no maintenance, and nothing more than a seasonal light cleaning.  Vinyl also has low visibility for scratches and dings – meaning your windows will look nicer for longer!

Efficiency: Vinyl windows tend to provide much more insulation than alternative materials, including aluminium.  Vinyl clad windows will keep heat from entering your home during the summer and help to retain heat during the winter.

Bottom Line: Vinyl windows are a low cost and low maintenance window option.  However, there are limitations regarding style, aesthetic and color availability. Also remember, vinyl has many different types and price points on the market, so essentially you will get what you pay for.

FIBERGLASS WINDOWS

Aesthetic: Fiberglass windows are made from glass fibers that are combined together to make  sheets.  Fiberglass windows have a close resemblance to wood, making them an attractive higher-end  alternative to vinyl.  Most fiberglass styles offer clean lines and are available in wide variety of colors.

Maintenance & Durability: Fiberglass windows are relatively durable – they resist rotting, warping, and cracking – but will need routine painting to maintain their color and appearance.

Efficiency: In our eyes the Marvin Windows Clad Series beats any window out there. They are a high quality window and Marvin is a great company that stands behind their products!

Bottom Line: Fiberglass windows do cost a little bit more, but again you get what you pay for. So if you are looking for a high quality window with a wide range of aesthetic options fiberglass may be the best choice for you.

As with all products you are choosing for your home, there are many choices, sometimes too many choices. Along with these choices comes a wide range of pricing. It can be more than confusing when choosing windows for your home because of the amount of choices one has.

At Excel Builders the main brand of windows we sell and install are Marvin Windows.  Marvin Windows come in two lines, Marvin and Ultrex.  Up until recently the Marvin line was more of a custom line of Windows. Marvin had aluminum clad exterior, wood interior, dual pane glass, and are energy-efficient.

The second line of windows from Marvin that we install is the Ultrex window. The Ultex window is built around durability, style, strength and beauty. Being  made of 100% fiberglass the Ultrex line of windows will outperform and outlast vinyl, aluminum and composite. The Ultrex window is eight times more rigid than vinyl, four times stronger than composites, and has a 38% longer life expectancy than vinyl.

The Ultrex window comes in fiberglass exterior and interior, or fiberglass exterior and wood interior.

We feel it is very important for us at Excel Builders to find and share the products that we believe in and stand behind with our clients. Marvin Windows is one of the many products that we recommend to our clients that we believe is a good choice when looking for new windows for your home.

If you are considering replacing your windows, and are trying to decide between vinyl and fiberglass please give us a call, we’d be happy to discuss the two products with you!

Awning: Awning windows are windows that are hinged at the top and open outward.  Awning windows are great for providing flexible ventilation and for catching a breeze when placed high on the wall.

Double Hung: Double hung windows are opened vertically by sliding up and down on a sash.  Double hung windows are self-contained, in that they don’t take up additional space when opened.  As such, they are perfect for hallways or other small spaces.

Casement: Casement windows are hinged at the side, open outward, and are crank propelled.  Casement windows are perfect for highlighting a great vista since they provide unobstructed views both top-to-bottom and side-to-side.  In addition, because they open by crank as opposed to by lifting, casement windows are ideal for placement in areas where you don’t want to have to lean over and lift to open your window.

Marvin Windows

Gliding: Gliding windows open horizontally by sliding on a sash.  Like double hung windows, gliding windows are self-contained and are well suited for small spaces.

Picture: Picture windows can create a featured focal point for your home or provide the framing to a stunning exterior view.  They also generally make the best use of natural light.  Because picture windows do not open, they should only be used in areas where ventilation is not a concern.

Bay: Bay windows are created by combining three or more windows, joined at angles, and projecting outward from a room.  Bay windows can contribute to creating a sense of spaciousness.

Ready to install new windows in your home?  Contact us today to talk through your window options!

In addition, a lack of ventilation can shorten the lifespan of your roof.  Consider that an average home produces four to five pounds of water vapor per day.  If your home’s roof is not properly ventilated, that water has nowhere to go.  Instead condensation forms on your roof and can result in the roof buckling, twisting, and contorting.

A good quality roof vent will consist of both an exhaust and intake.  These dual features ensure that the temperatures inside and outside of the home are brought to a consistent level.  Also keep in mind that the amount of ventilation your roof needs will be a key determination.   Insufficient ventilation can result in moisture problems in the winter and decreased energy efficiency in the summer.  Alternately, too much ventilation can create additional areas of vulnerability for your home – while some venting is essential, too much can leave your home unnecessarily prone to leaks or penetrations.

The Federal Housing Administration recommends a minimum of one square foot of roof ventilation for every 300 square feet of roof space.  This amount should be divided equally between intake and exhaust ventilation to insure proper air flow through the attic. When installing your roof vents, work with a qualified contractor to determine the right amount of ventilation for your home.

Are you ready to begin your spring roofing project or re-vent your home?  Contact Excel Builders to get started today!

This project was an exciting challenge for our team. Finishing the basement of an older home, with all the quirks that older homes tend to have – low ceilings, limited space, poor lighting, etc. – can seem a bit daunting. But if this project proved anything, it was that with proper planning, great lighting, and bright colors, even the darkest of spaces can be transformed into rooms well beyond expectations!

The number of footings that your deck will require is dependant on the size of both your deck beams and the footings themselves.  The larger the beam and footing size, the fewer footings that will be required.  However, as a general rule of thumb, both footings and posts should be less than 8′ apart.  Decks with multiple angles or those built to sustain hot tubs, porches, or other loads, will require additional footings per foot.  Be sure to discuss your intended deck usage with your contractor to determine the best fit for you!

When excavating for your footings it is important to make sure that they reach below the frost level – or the depth at which the soil is expected to freeze – and are placed at least 12 inches below unsettled soil.  Typically in Minnesota the frost level reaches approximately 48 inches.  However, your local building inspector will be able to tell you the required depth for your specific geographic area.  Speaking of inspectors, remember that your footings will need to pass inspection as well.  When checked, they will be measured to ensure that the holes’ base and depth sizes meet the specifications of your project’s pre-approved plans.  In addition, the footing holes must be free of both loose dirt and water.

Are you ready to place your deck?  Contact us today to get started on your outdoor retreat!

VINYL WINDOWS

Aesthetic: Vinyl windows are available in a variety of colors.  However, because they cannot be painted, exact color matches to the exterior of your home may be difficult to come by.  In addition, because vinyl cannot be shaped into ultra thin pieces, it can sometimes appear to have a heavier, more plastic aesthetic.

Maintenance & Durability: Vinyl windows are extremely low-maintenance, requiring little to no maintenance, and nothing more than a seasonal light cleaning.

Efficiency: Vinyl windows tend to provide much more insulation than alternative materials, including aluminium.  Vinyl clad windows will keep heat from entering your home during the summer and help to retain heat during the winter.  Vinyl also has low visibility for scratches and dings – meaning your windows will look nicer for longer!

Bottom Line: Vinyl windows are a low cost and low maintenance window option.  However, there are limitations regarding style, aesthetic and color availability.

ALUMINUM CLAD WINDOWS

Aesthetic: Aluminum clad windows are a wood frame coated with aluminum on the exterior.  The wood frame can be stained or painted on the inside and the exterior can be designed to match virtually any exterior color scheme.

Maintenance & Durability: Aluminum clad windows are typically stronger than vinyl and are recommended for areas prone to high winds since they are tough to dislodge and resistant to both dents and cracks.  However, aluminum can be scratched and dented and occasionally prone to water infiltration.  In addition, the windows will require paint or varnish on the wood surfaces.  While their durability is very good, they are a natural product subject to some degree of decay.

Efficiency: The efficiency of aluminum windows themselves is relatively low.  However, aluminum clad windows offer the highest energy efficiency rating of any window type.

Bottom Line: Aluminum clad windows typically cost about fifty-percent more than vinyl.  However, if the homeowner is willing to make the initial investment, they will be met with a high-quality and very aesthetically pleasing product.

CEDAR DECKS

Aesthetic: Most will argue that nothing beats the natural, warm, and rich look of new wood.  Cedar also has a distinct grain that adds to its aesthetic appeal. When left untreated, cedar fades to a soft gray. When treated with stain, the rich reddish hue of cedar can be preserved for an even more attractive result.

Maintenance: To retain the color of cedar decks, you must clean and reseal them every other year.

Durability: Cedar is naturally resistant to damage caused by rain, direct sunlight, and termites.  Thus, most cedar decks have a lifespan of 15 – 20 years; however, this can be shorter for lower-level decks or those under shaded overhangs that make them slow to dry out.  Cedar is also soft – meaning that furniture being dragged around the deck could result in scratches and other surface damage.

Bottom Line: Cedar decks are perfect for homeowners willing to put in a little more maintenance time in exchange for an ideal aesthetic or for those looking to make a lower initial investment.

COMPOSITE DECKS

Aesthetic: Composite decks are made from recycled plastic and woodchips or sawdust.  Color change is even over time and most varieties can be stained four to six months after installation.

Maintenance: Composite decks are essentially maintenance free.  However, they can be prime candidates for mold and mildew which can lead to slick, unattractive surfaces.  To counter these effects, some manufacturers recommend soaking the deck in bleach.

Durability: Composite decks do not rot, splinter or twist once they are in place.  However, because composites are significantly heavier than regular wood, some have been known to sag between joists, resulting in a bowed, unsightly appearance.  In addition, traffic patterns wear more noticeably with composite decking products than with wood, and dents and scratches cannot be sanded out.

Bottom Line: Composite decks are perfect for homebuyers looking for a low-maintenance option, with less concern for a particular deck aesthetic, and willing to make a higher upfront deck investment.

To learn about the possibilities of adding a deck addition to your home, contact Excel Builders!