Gutters and downspouts form a very important system that collects and drains rainwater or snow melting on the roof. They also complete the overall appearance of the building, being fully compatible with all types of roofs, regardless of the pattern, color or material they are made of - metal, tiles or shingles etc. They are installed on new roofs but can be replaced quite easily, anytime this is necessary.

Gutters require periodic maintenance, which consists in removing debris (dirt, twigs, dry leaves and other deposits) that accumulate in the gutters causing blockages in the water flow. Also, there are protective layers against UV radiation that should be applied on the gutters according to the manufacturer's recommendations, to increase their life span. Protecting the gutter system in the cold season requires either installing a de-icing solution or the removal of ice using chemicals, or steam at low pressure and high temperatures. Ice must never be removed mechanically, otherwise you risk damaging the gutters and cause water infiltrations.

What should you consider before buying a gutter system for your roof?

First, you must know exactly the size of the gutters, which depends on the roof surface. The larger the roof, the higher the volume of water to collect. Once you determine the right size, you can think about other details too, such as color and optional accessories.  For gutter repair or replacement, look to http://midkansasexteriors.com/.

 

 

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The deck represents an extension of the living area and must be decorated and cared for as much as any other house area.

Regardless of how you want to set it up, keep in mind that furniture must be specially designed to be used outdoors, thus made of materials that resist to moisture and solar radiation. Depending on its size, the deck can be transformed into a relaxing corner, or an area that fulfills the functions of other rooms such as the living room, or the dining.

If you prefer a minimal decor, two classic or rocking chairs made of wood, along with a small table and possibly a bench are a good choice. A more elaborated decor would include a couch with comfortable armchairs and other accessories such as decorative pillows, plaids - in other words things that that provide the same comfort as inside the house.  Of course it’s only nice if you have a covered porch, have the neighborhood Wichita roofing contractors install shingles that match the house.

Do not forget about lighting. Some outdoor lamps that match the rest of the decor will illuminate the deck in a practical and stylish way.

Finally yet importantly, spring is the best time to pick some flowers and plants as decorations. Even if the garden is two steps away, some vegetation in nicely colored (hanging) pots will make your deck looking even more beautiful and alive.

 

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When it comes to siding, there are many materials and finishes designed to not only embellish the exterior of the house, but also provide weather protection. Maintenance depends on each material.

• Wood siding

Protecting wood siding with appropriate chemical solutions is extremely important and must be performed regularly according to experienced Topeka roofing professionals. For a natural finish, the simple application of a colorless waterproof solution will ensure that the wood will preserve its condition for a while. For longer maintenance intervals, as well as an aesthetically superior appearance, there are acrylic or oil-based paints. In regions with high temperatures, open colors are indicated, because they absorb less heat and thus provide increased protection

If wood siding panels are not treated with any chemical solution, they are expected to discolor and degrade over time.

• Fiber cement siding

Fiber cement siding is low-maintenance, but not maintenance-free. It requires periodic cleaning using a power-washing garden hose, to remove dirt, mold and mildew, as well as repainting. How much the paint lasts depends on the type of fiber cement siding you have purchased.

• Vinyl siding

Vinyl siding is a very convenient material and, in terms of maintenance, all you have to do is power washing it now and then.

• Aluminum siding

Besides regular cleaning, aluminum siding is prone to scratching, so you will have to do small touchups and repairs quite often, using grit sandpaper, special fillers, spray paint (or a zinc oxide primer, where there is no colored enamel).

 

Originally Posted right here: How To Maintain Your Siding

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There are three types of climate in Kansas: humid continental in east and north-east, semiarid steppe in the western portion and humid subtropical in the central and south, south-eastern areas.

The occurrence of severe weather phenomena in Kansas is not an accident; the state is prone to severe thunderstorms, especially in the spring and summer, due to the circulation of multiple air masses. Often, storms become supercell thunderstorms (tornados). Kansas witnesses about 50 tornados each year that often drop heavy rain and large hail, causing floods and being responsible for various  other damages: injuries (sometimes fatalities), as well as public and private property damage.

Statistics show that the most dangerous phenomena during a storm are wind, flash flooding and lightning; the first two also bring the most significant material damage.

In these circumstances, taking appropriate protective measures is a must. Many homeowners in Kansas invest in lightning rods, whole-house surge protectors, wind shutters (that also protect against hail), pressure or high impact windows and, not least, resistant roofing materials.  A Wichita roofing company can keep your roof maintained for optimal performance during this season as well.

Other important things to consider if you live in Kansas are trimming back trees to prevent fallen branches, securing window shutters and tying down any loose things around the house that might be lifted by the wind and thrown around.

 

 

 

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Every time you choose a contractor, you are advised to check that company with the BBB.

 

What is the Better Business Bureau and how exactly can it help you choose a trusted roofer?

The Better Business Bureau is an organization that acts as an advocate for the consumer, offering useful information on businesses that should or should not be trusted, based on a ranking system.

You can request an e-quote and you will surely receive dozens of proposals from BBB members that fit your requirements, then you can use the resources offered by the BBB in the evaluation and selection process.

You have the option to get inside a roofing company`s business profile and check the available information, which will surely give you at least an idea on the contractor`s reliability. For example, you can see for how long it has been in the business and you can check the number of complaints made by the customers, as well as the way they have been solved. Multiple complaints, as well as the lack of response from the roofing company are definitely a red flag.

This system is not infallible, because there are cases of companies that trashed their reputation, changed their name and continued making business, but if you double check the information you receive from the BBB, you have a good chance to select a good roofer.

MidKansas Exteriors is a great roofing contractor and has been serving clients in Topeka for decades, give them a call today http://midkansasexteriors.com/topeka.html.

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