Choosing the right siding for your home is an important decision, especially in the Midwest where homes are subjected to harsh weather conditions year-round. LP (Louisiana-Pacific) siding is a popular choice among homeowners in the Midwest due to its durability, versatility, and aesthetic appeal. In this blog post, we'll explore the benefits of installing LP siding on your house in the Midwest and why it's a smart investment for your home. 1. Durability: LP siding is engineered to withstand the elements, making it an ideal choice for the Midwest's unpredictable weather patterns. It is designed to resist moisture, rot, and insects, ensuring that your home remains protected and looking great for years to come. This durability is especially important in the Midwest, where heavy rains, snow, and humidity can take a toll on traditional siding materials. 2. Low Maintenance: One of the key benefits of LP siding is its low maintenance requirements. Unlike wood siding, which requires regular painting, staining, and sealing, LP siding is pre-finished and requires minimal upkeep. A simple cleaning with soap and water is all that's needed to keep your LP siding looking like new. 3. Aesthetic Appeal: LP siding comes in a wide range of colors, textures, and styles, allowing you to customize the look of your home to suit your taste. Whether you prefer a traditional, rustic look or a more modern, sleek design, there's an LP siding option to match your vision. Additionally, LP siding can be easily painted or stained if you decide to change the color in the future. 4. Sustainability: LP siding is an environmentally friendly choice for your home. It is made from sustainable wood sources and is manufactured using an environmentally responsible process. Additionally, LP SmartSide products are classified as a carbon-negative exterior cladding product, which means they store more carbon in the product than is released during raw material sourcing, manufacturing and customer distribution.  5. Insulation and Energy Efficiency: LP siding can help improve the insulation of your home, which is especially important in the Midwest's cold winters. By reducing heat loss through the walls, LP siding can help lower your energy bills and improve the overall comfort of your home. 6. Warranty Protection: Many LP siding products come with a warranty that provides protection against defects and damage. This added peace of mind ensures that your investment is protected and that you can enjoy your new siding for years to come. LP siding offers a range of benefits that make it an excellent choice for homeowners in the Midwest. From its durability and low maintenance requirements to its aesthetic appeal and energy efficiency, LP siding provides a long-lasting and sustainable siding solution for your home. Consider installing LP siding on your house in the Midwest to enjoy these benefits and enhance the beauty and value of your home for years to come.

No, not that kind of flashing! Often overlooked, aluminum flashing is a vital component that helps safeguard your home against water intrusion, preventing potential damage to your structure and preserving its integrity.

When it comes to choosing an entry door for your home, durability, security, and aesthetics are all essential considerations. Steel entry doors have emerged as a popular choice among homeowners, offering a range of advantages that go beyond mere curb appeal. In this blog post, we'll explore the numerous benefits of steel entry doors and why they are an excellent investment for your home.  1. Unmatched Durability: Steel entry doors are renowned for their exceptional durability. Unlike wooden doors that can warp, rot, or succumb to insect damage, steel doors withstand the test of time. They are resistant to cracking, warping, and weathering, making them a reliable choice for various climates and weather conditions. 2. Enhanced Security: Security is a top priority for homeowners, and steel entry doors provide an added layer of protection. The inherent strength of steel makes these doors resistant to forced entry, offering peace of mind for you and your family. Many steel doors come with reinforced frames and multi-point locking systems, further fortifying your home against potential intruders. 3. Energy Efficiency: Steel entry doors are excellent insulators, helping to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature and reduce energy costs. Many steel doors feature a core of high-density polyurethane or other insulating materials, creating a barrier that minimizes heat transfer. This energy efficiency not only contributes to a more comfortable living space but also aligns with sustainable and cost-effective home management. 4. Low Maintenance: Steel entry doors are remarkably low-maintenance compared to other materials like wood. They resist fading, chipping, and peeling, maintaining their appearance over the years with minimal effort. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is often sufficient to keep a steel door looking clean and fresh. 5. Aesthetic Versatility: While security and durability are paramount, steel entry doors don't compromise on aesthetics. They are available in a wide range of styles, finishes, and designs, allowing homeowners to choose a door that complements the architectural style of their home. Whether you prefer a classic look, a modern design, or a customized option, steel doors provide aesthetic versatility. 6. Fire Resistance: Steel is inherently fire-resistant, offering an additional layer of protection in the event of a fire. This feature can be crucial for the safety of your home and family, providing valuable time for evacuation and minimizing potential damage. 7. Cost-Effective Investment: Steel entry doors are often more cost-effective than their wooden counterparts. Considering their durability, low maintenance requirements, and energy efficiency, the initial investment in a steel door can translate into long-term savings on repairs and energy bills. 8. Environmental Sustainability: Steel is a recyclable material, making steel entry doors an environmentally sustainable choice. When it's time to replace the door, the old steel can be recycled, reducing the overall environmental impact. Steel entry doors stand out as a superior choice for homeowners seeking a durable, secure, and energy-efficient entryway. With their low maintenance requirements, aesthetic versatility, and cost-effective nature, steel doors offer a comprehensive package of advantages. Elevate the security, efficiency, and style of your home with the timeless appeal and robust qualities of a steel entry door.

As winter approaches, taking the time to prepare the exterior of your home is essential to ensure your property remains safe, well-maintained, and energy-efficient during the colder months. From protecting against freezing temperatures to preventing potential damage, these winter preparations can make a significant difference. In this blog post, we'll discuss a comprehensive guide on how to prepare the exterior of your home for winter. 1. Inspect and Clean Gutters: Clean gutters are crucial for proper water drainage. Remove leaves, debris, and any blockages to prevent ice dams and ensure melting snow can flow freely away from your roof and foundation. 2. Check and Repair Roofing: Inspect your roof for damaged or missing shingles. Repair any issues to prevent leaks during winter storms. Consider hiring a professional if you're not comfortable or experienced with roof inspections. 3. Seal Cracks and Gaps: Inspect the exterior of your home for cracks and gaps that can let cold air in and warm air out. Seal gaps around windows, doors, and in the foundation with weatherstripping or caulk to improve energy efficiency and keep your home warm. 4. Trim Tree Branches: Trim any overhanging tree branches that could potentially break under the weight of snow and ice, causing damage to your home or power lines. This proactive measure can prevent accidents and minimize the risk of falling branches. 5. Winterize Outdoor Faucets and Sprinkler Systems: Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses, and shut off the water supply to outdoor faucets. If you have an underground sprinkler system, hire a professional to blow out the system to prevent freezing and potential damage. 6. Store Outdoor Furniture: Protect your outdoor furniture from winter weather by storing it indoors or using weather-resistant covers. This helps extend the life of your furniture and prevents potential damage from snow and ice. 7. Insulate Pipes: Prevent frozen pipes by insulating exposed pipes in unheated areas such as basements, crawl spaces, and attics. Consider using pipe insulation sleeves or heat tape to keep pipes warm during freezing temperatures. 8. Clean and Store Garden Tools: Clean and properly store garden tools, including lawnmowers, trimmers, and hoses. Drain fuel from gas-powered equipment to prevent damage, and store tools in a dry, protected area. 9. Check and Maintain Outdoor Lighting: Ensure outdoor lighting is in good working condition. Replace any burned-out bulbs and consider installing motion sensor lights to enhance security during the longer, darker winter nights. 10. Inspect and Clean Chimney: If you have a fireplace or wood-burning stove, have your chimney inspected and cleaned by a professional. This not only improves efficiency but also reduces the risk of chimney fires. 11. Install Storm Windows and Doors: If you have storm windows and doors, install them to provide an extra layer of insulation against the cold. This can significantly improve energy efficiency and help keep your home warm. 12. Check the Heating System: Schedule a professional inspection and maintenance for your heating system. This ensures it's in optimal condition for the colder months, reducing the risk of breakdowns and improving energy efficiency. By taking the time to prepare the exterior of your home for winter, you not only enhance its durability and energy efficiency but also create a safer and more comfortable living environment. These simple yet effective steps can make a significant difference in protecting your home against the challenges of winter weather. Stay warm, cozy, and worry-free throughout the season with these proactive winter preparations.

Learn how to make informed decisions before embarking on your window replacement project.

Gutters and downspouts are often overlooked components of a home's exterior, but they play a crucial role in protecting your investment and maintaining the structural integrity of your property.

Your home's exterior is the first thing people see, and it plays a crucial role in protecting your investment. Follow these ten tips to keep your house in tip top shape.

Steel roofing offers a range of benefits that can make it an attractive and practical option for homeowners, click here to find out why!

Vinyl is a superb choice for siding the exterior of a remodel or new construction home. Read more to find out why we think so!