I work in IT remotely here in Schuylkill and my annual bonus this year is just over $15k. My wife and I have been thinking about how we want to spend it. 

Reflecting on the past two years, we think it’s time for a change. We love our current home- it’s the first home we bought together, where we’ve raised our three kids- but we know we need to upgrade to a house with more room. We agreed we’d like to think about selling.  

There are improvements that need to be made to the house, and I want to put this money towards them. 

What improvement has the biggest return? How do I increase home value? This is a new territory for our family and your advice is appreciated. 

Thanks, 

Cody from Tamaqua PA

Home Improvements With the Best Return

Cody, congratulations on the bonus and the decision to make a home move. Placing your home on the market is a big decision. I’m glad to hear you’re thinking ahead about how to get the most from your investment. 

Often, homeowners start with interior changes. They renovate the master bathroom or finish the basement. But whenever I’m asked this I recommend focusing on your exterior first to boost your curb appeal and take care of the “big” things the next homeowner doesn’t want to think about. 

Let’s take a minute to talk about the importance of curb appeal.

Coined in 1975, the term originally referred to the way buyers chose which homes to tour. But that was before the internet. Now, 89% of people research a home on Zillow before scheduling a showing. 

Even so, the first picture of your home listed on Zillow? The street view. 

If you’ve got the bright red “for sale” sign in your front lawn, passersby are taking note of your home. An updated exterior is a great way to get noticed.

And it’s not the only reason curb appeal matters. Did you know great curb appeal can increase perceived home value by up to 11%? 

Your curb appeal is your home’s first impression. It’s also one of the most important steps in the selling process. People are visual and an exterior improvement is the best way to connect with potential buyers. 

Not sure where to start? Here are three things homebuyers love when shopping for a new home. 

#1. Your Biggest Asset: A New Roof

Did you know a new roof can have a return on investment as high as 68%? 

It’s true! A new roof is a big project, but well worth it. It’s one of the first things I suggest to homeowners looking to sell. 

The huge ROI isn’t the only reason to replace your roof before selling. Here are some other benefits:

• A new roof will get you a higher appraisal 
• Homes with new roofs spend less time on the market
• Many home insurance companies offer a discount on homes with new roofs

The next question:

What Kind of Roof Should You Install? 

Often when asked about roof materials, I recommend a metal roof. They’re resilient, durable, and very popular. But metal roofs are a better fit for your “forever” home than one you’re looking to sell next season. 

With your goals I recommend asphalt shingles. They’re the most popular material in America, have a quick installation, budget friendly price, and stylish look. The average cost ($22k) is outside of your $15k bonus budget but when you factor in the 68% ROI, you’ll make an estimated $15,247 back when selling. 

Recently, we published an article about asphalt shingle roofs on a budget. 3-tab shingles might be just what you’re looking for. If you’d like to learn more about 3-tab shingles, and other affordable roof options, you can read about it here. 

When looking for a ‘budget’ option, it usually means compromising quality. But when you work with us, that’s never the case. 

We proudly work with GAF to provide the highest quality materials for your new roof installation. GAF roofs are built with durability at the forefront, and will protect your family for the next five years, and continue to protect after you’ve sold your home. 

All of GAF’s roofs come with a lifetime warranty- which carries over when you sell. With this improvement, you’re boosting curb appeal and creating an asset for future homeowners. 

#2. Shine a Light on Your Listing

Did you know often realtors will suggest painting your ceiling a shade lighter than the walls? 

It’s true- and it’s done to make the ceiling height seem higher than it is. 

Your wife might already be talking about how to ‘set the stage’ for potential buyers. And your realtor will work with you to create a space that connects with families walking through. 

I’ll let you in on another realtor trick: Brighter spaces- and natural light- makes every space feel bigger. Our eyes perceive light colors differently than dark. Light colors are more reflective and make a space feel larger than it actually is. Dark colors absorb light and make a space feel small. 

Natural light is one of your biggest assets when selling. Here’s an example of the difference natural light makes on a space. Look at this living room before the home improvement began:

And after: 

It doesn’t even look like the same home!

Other than some decor and a new paint job, the biggest change to the space is the windows. Instead of the small and awkward window, these homeowners opted to open the entire space up with a new bay window. 

And aesthetics isn’t the only point in favor of this improvement. Here are some practical reasons in favor of considering new windows before you sell your home: 

• Energy Efficient Windows can save up to $785 a year on energy bills. 
• Natural light helps fight off winter blues
• Windows offers one of the highest return on investments (estimated 85%!)

Choosing the Perfect Windows

One of my favorite things about a new window installation is the customization. Our supplier, Simonton, offers a large range of windows, each built with durability and quality at the forefront. 

A great example of Simonton’s skill and creativity is the garden window insert: 

Garden window inserts let in natural light, and create the perfect space for an in-home garden. They’re a beautiful design, and offer a creative twist on a standard window. 

Picture windows are another great style to consider: 

This style of window is also referred to as fixed windows. They don’t open and shut like standard windows. Because of this, they’re best installed in the living room or kitchen. The large windows are perfect for letting in light and increasing space on a budget. 

With so many styles to choose from, it can seem overwhelming. But when you work with our team, we help you find the right design and sizing for your space. 

#3. Spruce Up Your Siding

The adage “first impressions last” is more than an old saying- it’s science. Did you know your brain makes a decision within the first ten seconds of viewing something? 

So if your home’s siding is: 

• Layered in algae 
• Chipped 
• Discolored

A potential buyer only needs a passing glance to strike it off their list. 

Your siding takes up the biggest visual area of your home. If it’s not in good shape, you’re missing out on showings and hurting your chances of selling at your full value. 

Check out this home before and after adding new siding:

The old siding dates the house. However, the new improvement offers a fresh look (and you can’t go wrong with 2021’s color of the year- earthy green.)

When to Refresh… and When to Replace

Does your siding look dated and discolored? The good news is it might just need a quick refresh. Let’s take a quick moment to talk about safe DIY siding fixes. 

If your siding is growing algae, don’t panic! 

Instead, grab a bucket of warm water, bleach, and a brush. You’re ready to start scrubbing. It’s really that easy. 

Noticed tougher stains? Never try to power wash your siding. It’s incredibly easy to damage siding this way. Instead, call a professional for the job. 

Noticed your paint is discolored or chipped? Often homeowners will try and repaint the siding by themselves. Here’s why you should say no to this DIY project: 

• Painting siding can null your warranty
• If not careful, you can hurt the way your siding functions
• If it looks worn, it probably is. 

Maybe your siding just needs a good clean. But if it’s 20+ years, replacing it might be the best home improvement for your annual bonus. 

Replacing your vinyl siding has a 68.3% return on investment. Standard siding replacement costs an average of $14-16k, keeping you right in budget. 

A Home That Sells

Moving out of your starter home is a big shift and it’s good that you’re thinking ahead. It sounds like you’re blessed with a strong support system in your wife and family. You know you aren’t embarking on this new chapter of your life alone. 

If you’re ready to start on an exterior home improvement- we’re here for you. From start to finish, we offer the support you need. 

If you’d like to talk more, give me a call at 570-345-0436. 

Until next time, 

Vern Martin

The post Ask Vern: The Best Improvement for My Budget? appeared first on Martin Roofing & Siding.

After last year’s delivery delays? I’m guessing most of us started a little earlier than in past years. Which is good because there’s always one impossible person to buy for on everyone’s list. 

You know who I’m talking about: Dad. 

Every year, I see articles on “The Perfect Christmas Gift for Dad” but they always have the same things. What can you do to show your appreciation for a guy who already has a perfectly good wallet, too many ties, and doesn’t need another tool set? 

Don’t worry- I can help!

This year, give Dad a gift designed to last. Instead of another ‘thing’ wrapped up under the tree…let’s talk about gifts that save him time, honor his interests, and give him back his workspace.

Our 2021 Christmas Gift Guide for Dad showcases 5 home improvements your spouse is guaranteed to love. 

#1 An Organized Garage for All His Hobbies

According to the Wall Street Journal, only 11% of Americans are satisfied with their garage. 

Is the man in your life a garage guy- keeping the family car’s oil changed or working on home projects after dinner? Although asking for a clean house falls more into mom’s territory, an organized garage is the perfect gift for a guy who loves his hobbies. 

Make it a real gift by hiring a pro to come in and set up a great system to organize the garage. 

Before you make a phone call, consider what type of help you want in this project. Similar to hiring a roofing contractor, outline what you want done and check reviews before committing.

Here are the three types of garage organization services to help you choose the right fit:

• • Professional organizers will help you decide which items to keep, or toss. They’ll also make an organizational plan.
    
  • A junk removal service will be able to haul trash and recycle unwanted items.

  • Home cleaning services sometimes offer garage cleaning. They’ll clean out dirt, grime, and cobwebs. 

If you’re looking to get rid of large items, call a junk removal company. Otherwise, you can get by with a rented dumpster. For most garages, the value of a professional organizer can’t be underestimated. These teams make a plan tailored to your space to maximize workflow and storage. All you have to do is follow it!

If your dad loves spending time together, this is the perfect home improvement gift for him: quality time and a newly organized garage! 

#2 Gutter Guards: Saves Time and Gives You Peace of Mind

Do you remember how you felt as a kid opening a pair of socks? They were nice but…when you’re eight the toys are much more exciting.

Now, socks are one of my favorite gifts! And clothes? It’s one of the best gifts folks give to our kids. It’s great when someone takes the hassle of shopping out of the picture for me. 

The point is as an adult gifts of convenience are the BEST. When someone saves you time or makes life a little bit easier- I appreciate it!

Enter this gift idea: Gutter Guards. 

Gutter guards cut back on home maintenance, making it one of the best home improvements. And as a bonus? If your husband isn’t sturdy on a ladder…you get the peace of mind knowing your significant other can keep his feet planted.  An average of 164,000 emergency room visits per year are caused by ladder falls. 

This installation is also a great gift for aging parents. 

Want to read up on the gutter guards of today? Discover more here!

#3. The Dream Deck 

Heard of Yelp’s “Decks for Dads” contest? 

Dads can get a little ambitious on home improvements- diving into a new deck build as a “weekend project”. But building a new deck is a huge endeavor for any one guy! It happens so often that for Father’s Dad 2021, Yelp launched a contest for dad’s offering $2,000 to the lucky winner’s deck installation. 

With the help of the Martin crew, you can make Dad’s deck dreams come true and not lose your spouse to a weekend project that lasts a summer. 

Decks can be installed on every style of home- even historic homes. Check out this new deck addition on this historic home: 

Think your space is too small for a deck? That your property lines or tree lines won’t leave you enough space to enjoy an outdoor build? A skilled contractor can retrofit a deck to fit your existing space. 

Take this home for example: 

Although it’s a smaller space, this deck is a gorgeous place to enjoy the fireflies in the evening. Plus, I love how it’s accessible from the master bedroom! 

When you schedule your deck build for this spring, our in-house architect will draw up the plans for your home improvements so you have something to wrap for dad this Christmas. Imagine how excited he’ll be about having a great outdoor space next year…all he has to do is figure out where to put the grill!

#4 A New Storage Shed: For Him… and the Kids

If the kid’s stuff is taking up too much space, consider building a cool storage shed instead. Not only does this give dad his space back, but you can make room for Dad to finally park inside your garage. 

Look at this shed turned kid’s space: 

It looks like something right out of a fairytale! 

Or check out this kid’s space. It doesn’t even look like a shed, just a small toy room:

Pro tip: Consider hanging up a bike rack to free up space in the shed. 

When considering a new shed, you’ll have to choose between a new build, or a prefabricated one. I always recommend a new build to homeowners. 

Why? 

Prefabricated sheds are built using the cheapest materials available. On average, they only have a lifespan of 5-10 years. New build sheds can last up to 30 years! That means once the kid’s move out, you’ll have a solid space to repurpose for your empty nest hobbies. 

We can help you build a shed that looks like this:

So his garage can look like that: 

#5 Theme a Space for Dad 

Maybe you have a “no dead deer in the living room” rule in your house. Or perhaps dad’s sport’s memorabilia is starting to take over your perfectly decorating foyer. Sharing a space can be tricky- especially if you have one idea in mind and he has another.

So why not give him a space designed just for him? He gets room to spread and you can show him you really do appreciate his interests. 

Is dad a big fisher? Transform a room into the ultimate tackle room: 

Is his most prized possession his boxed Criterion collection? Consider turning a space into an entertainment room: 

For best organization, make sure to add: 

• • Shelves for his photos 
  • Bookshelves for all media 
  • Racks and hangers for maximum floor space

When designing a room, there are a few ways to go about it. Does he already have an office? Retrofit it to accommodate his work needs as well as his hobbies. 

If there’s not an extra designated space don’t worry! Consider redecorating a guest bathroom to showcase the best of his pieces and dedicating the design to his interests. 

Make This Christmas a Year Dad Won’t Ever Forget

We’d love to be a part of making this the best Christmas ever for your Dad- and I hope this gift guide helps. If one of these home improvements caught your eye as the perfect solution- let’s talk! Small projects like gutter guards can be finished before Christmas. For others, we can create a project design to give to dad on Christmas day, and schedule our crew to start the project when the weather is right. 

Christmas is our favorite holiday in the Martin home. If we can help make yours happier- we’re on it!

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After years of wood siding upkeep and rot control we’re having it all replaced with vinyl.

My question: 

We’re considering insulated vinyl siding… but is it worth it? I know it’s energy efficient and can help add insulation. But does it add enough to justify the cost?

Is it something we should seriously consider or just a scam? 

Thanks-

Cody from Hamburg, PA”

Cody, 

After upkeeping wood- you’re going to love the low-maintenance of your new vinyl. 

Today’s vinyl siding isn’t like what they installed back in the 90s. Manufacturers have responded to the product’s growing popularity by offering upgrades in style, durability, and- you’re right- even insulation. There is a lot to talk about when it comes to choosing new vinyl siding.

Before we talk about the pros and cons of insulated vinyl siding- let me give you a quick look at what it is.

From our end, as a contractor, the biggest difference between insulated and standard vinyl siding is just the extra insulation. There isn’t going to be a significant difference in installation price per ft. 

The siding itself remains the same, but when insulated, there is a layer of foam installed between the siding and your home. 

Here’s what that looks like: 

As you said, the added insulation’s job is to make your home more energy efficient by lowering the internal temperature of your home. In fact, that’s the biggest reason people choose it. 

Regulating Air Flow 

It sounds like you’ve done some research on this product already- so the term “R-value” probably looks familiar. R-value is a measurement of heat flow resistance of insulation…not just on siding but of fiberglass, blown-in, windows, etc.  

Insulated vinyl adds an insulative factor of R-2 to R-5. Just to give you something to compare, the standard attic is insulated to R-38 or higher. 

In my opinion? This small addition really doesn’t make much of a difference when it comes to energy efficiency. 

That’s not to say the insulation doesn’t have some benefits. The insulation in vinyl siding does offer: 

• • Firmer appearance
  • Resistance to Impact Damage 
  • Noise Reduction 

But if you’re trying to save on your energy bill? You might not see the big savings you expect. 

Moisture Risk: Misconception or Potential Problem?

One big question we get when asked about insulated vinyl siding is:

Does insulated siding put my home at greater risk of mold?

This popular question stems from the belief that the foam insulation will absorb and hold moisture- creating mold. 

Even the strongest siding allows a little water to leak through. Because of that, it’s important to only work with materials that dry out quickly. 

Home Innovations Research Lab compared insulated siding to nine other popular materials and compared how each held moisture. Insulated vinyl outperformed every other material. 

But this added protection comes at a high price. Adding insulation to your siding can raise the cost by as much as 50%.

Insulated vinyl isn’t the only way to protect your home from moisture. Our supplier, Ply Gem, offers the most storm resistant siding available, meaning you can get the protection without the high price. Their sustainable siding is designed to protect against impact and water damage.

Ready for New Siding? 

Would I choose insulated vinyl siding for my home? For me- I’m not sure it’s worth the cost. If you’re wanting a more efficient home, the money may be better spent making sure your attic is insulated and ventilated properly- or upgrading your windows. If your home is drafty and you’re looking for a way to improve your utility bills- call us and we’ll come take a look.

But it’s a personal decision. Any way you go, you’re going to see a big difference between your current wood siding and your new vinyl when it comes to exterior protection. 

No matter what kind of vinyl siding you choose to work with, we’re here to help. If you have any questions, need help choosing the right color or style for your home, or want a professional installation you can depend on- give me a call at 570-345-0406 to talk more about your project. 

Until next time, 

Vern

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Imagine this:

It’s the 1850’s and you’ve just finished construction on your new home. 

Most of the houses in your town are made of wood. The material is everywhere, easy to access, and cheap.

But you? You opted for brick with your new home. Brick houses are more of an expensive but, since you can afford it, you want to build a home with an exterior that will withstand generations family use.

Fast forward a hundred years to the 1950’s. 

Your neighbors have just finished installing the newest housing upgrade- vinyl siding. 

A decade prior, the “big thing” was aluminum siding. But looking at the remaining aluminum houses…some oxidized by weather, others dented and scratched?

It makes you wonder if vinyl is just a fad, too. As a homeowner in the 1950s, you’re thinking to yourself:

“….Should I choose vinyl? Or this this just a way to keep up with the Jones’?”

The longer you look at this high-tech vinyl across the street, the more enamored you become.

If only you had a look into the future to see how that material performed down the road…

Home Exteriors: Always Changing.

The way we protect our homes is always changing.  As technology improves- so do we. The search for stronger, longer-lasting, and more affordable ways to protect our homes didn’t stop in the 1850s or the 1950s…and it won’t stop in 2021.

A few weeks ago, we talked about home facades and key differences between today’s most popular options. I got a few follow-up emails asking about cladding- and I’d like to explore that a little more. 

Cladding has been used in homes for centuries but this installation style has become popular again. Why? As it turns out, installing today’s best product with tried and true methods that have lasted centuries before really adds to the longevity of your home.

Want to learn more about today’s newest (“oldest!”) exterior trend? Let’s dive in.

Cladding vs Siding: What’s the Difference? 

Siding and cladding are very different from each other…but not in the way you might think. In fact, just looking at a home, most homeowners wouldn’t be able to tell the difference between the two. 

Why?

The difference isn’t in the materials used. In fact, popular cladding materials include: 

• • Wood 
  • Fiber cement 
  • Stone or brick

So what makes siding and cladding different? The installation process. 

Traditional siding is attached directly to your home’s sheathing. 

Cladding is attached indirectly.

What do I mean? Let me explain.

Basically- there’s an extra gap. Instead of fastening to your house, a layer of furring strips is installed over a weather resistant barrier. Then, the cladding is attached to the furring strips. 

An intentional gap is left between the cladding and weather resistant barrier. 

Why? 

Even the strongest siding allows rain water inside. Most exterior materials are designed to dry out quick…but in Pennsylvania? Sometimes it’s a real race for any material to keep up between those heavy summer showers.

Cladding addresses the issue head on. Any rainwater that gets through the exterior will seep down through the gap like a gutter between the back of your exterior and your home’s walls. 

The weather resistant barrier protects your home against any additional moisture until everything drains or dries.  

Cladding Pros and Cons

Cladding is the most effective way to protect your home from water damage. 

But that’s not the only reason cladding is growing in popularity. The gap between your home and cladding creates an extra ventilation system. 

This gap creates something called the chimney effect. 

The result? Air trapped behind the cladding helps maintain a consistent interior temperature year round.

Remember learning that heat rises? That science comes into play here. During the summer, hot air filling the gap rises out, being replaced with cool air. This circulation keeps your home from overheating. In the winter the air isn’t hot enough to rise out. Instead it becomes trapped in the gap and helps regulate the temperature of your home. 

Cladding also: 

• • Increases home value and boosts curb appeal 
  • Comes in a variety of styles and colors
  • Is low maintenance

With all these benefits, you wonder why anyone would opt for a different installation process!

Well, here’s why: installing cladding takes a real pro.

What Can Go Wrong With Cladding?

The biggest downfall to cladding? The difficult installation process. 

When installed incorrectly, water becomes trapped in the gap. This sitting water wears at the weather resistant barrier and can lead to internal water damage, mold problems, and more. 

Different styles of cladding require different installation processes. Composite siding is very different from stone veneer. Both require a contractor who is skilled in installing the chosen materials AND knows how to work with the specific cladding installation process of that material. 

The big takeaway? If you want cladding, make sure your chosen contractor has a proven track record of installation and guarantees their work.

Here at Martin, we can work with all standard materials- either in cladding installation or direct.

Vern and his crew have been restoring home facades here in Schuylkill County for decades. They’re experienced contractors who take pride in their work and guarantee it beyond standard warranties. 

If you have more questions about how cladding works or the benefits of it, we’d love to talk.

Give us a call 570-345-0406 to set up an appointment and get started!
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This year- we’re finally rebuilding our deck. 

We’ve been thinking about this project forever…the best design, the best view. But what’s really holding up our decision is material. 

Can you offer any advice on choosing between traditional lumber or building out with composite? 

Kim from Scranton, PA

Hey Kim, 

If your family is like ours, we love spending summer evenings out on our deck. Rebuilding a deck is a big project, but the enjoyment? It’s worth it!

Deciding between traditional lumber and composite is a tricky choice- both have their pros and cons. So before we dive into which is the best for you, let’s take a quick look at both. 

First- what is Pressure Treated Lumber? 

Pressure treated wood is lumber put through a chemical process. During this process, the air is removed and is replaced with preservatives. After being doused with the preservatives, the lumber is placed in a pressure chamber, forcing the preservatives to soak throughout the wood. 

Because of the chemicals used in the preservation process, pressure treated lumber is only for outside use. 

Here are the benefits to using pressure treated lumber:

#1: Easy to repair: If an accident does happen, it’s a quick fix. In fact, some pressure treated lumber is infused with flame-retardant chemicals. 

#2: Cost: A lot of first time deck builders choose pressure treated because it’s less expensive than composite or cedar. 

But while pressure treated lumber holds up great against bugs and rot…it doesn’t hold up as well against water. And here in Pennsylvania? We get a lot of rain! If not properly maintained, your deck can begin to fade and splinter. 

Composite Decking: The Family Friendly Option

If you want strong decking material that’s made to withstand rainy springs and safe for little feet-

Composite is your answer.

What is composite decking? It’s a mixture of wood, straw, and plastic that’s formed and bound together by an adhesive. After it’s pressed together, it’s coated in a strong finish for added durability. The finish is what makes composite waterproof- perfect holding strong and looking beautiful, rainy season after rainy season. 

Composite is a great choice if you have kids or grandkids running around barefoot- or your deck surrounds a pool or jacuzzi. You’ll never have to worry about the pulling splinters out of little toes when you build your deck with composite. 

Another bonus? No more burned feet, either. In the past, composite was prone to overheating, but newer materials have solved that problem. Now, almost all composite materials have built in heat resistance. 

Composite decks also require less maintenance as compared to pressure treated. Other decks need resealed every 1-3 years or else they will begin to decay. Composite decks last for decades, looking like new, with just an occasional sweep and wash.

Sounds great, right?

Now for the downside: cost. 

Composite is made to withstand anything, and for that reason, it’s not the cheapest option. But if you don’t plan on selling your home any time soon, your family will be saving money by skipping out on the constant upkeep and repairs of pressure treated decks. 

Kim, if you’re ready to start the construction process on your new deck our team is ready to help. Choosing the best options for your family and your budget can be tricky, but we have experience in that, too. Whatever material you choose, we can show you how to take care of your beautiful new deck for years to come. 

Talk soon,

Vern

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