aesthetic_elements

Roof Replacement

Fri, 25 Feb 2022 17:05:22 GMT

Choose your next Roof Replacement with Aesthetic Elements, Inc.

Innovation comes within these individual products, and every year, different product groups get better and better, making way for a brighter future in the roofing industry.

The top two roofing materials used today:

Metal Roofing has been on the rise because new technology has allowed it to become more silent than ever. Along with becoming quieter, it’s also been redesigned to look more like asphalt shingles instead of big metal sheets.

Asphalt Shingles is the age-old favorite of homeowners in the United States. From Alaska to Maine and Florida to Minnesota, these shingles are used on homes and other buildings to offer protection from the rain, snow, and severe weather.

In 2021 look for homeowners trying new color patterns and new versions of asphalt shingles that offer a longer life as well. To get the highest-quality shingles for your home, be sure to talk with your roofing contractor. There are many great options on the market, but every homeowner’s budget and preference are different and will determine what shingles you end up getting.

Mixed materials are set to continue trending in 2022. A mixed roof is when a homeowner requests to combine two materials on their roofs, such as a metal roof and asphalt shingles. This then creates a type of hybrid that can be used to better protect your home and add to the aesthetic.

FREE Professional Roof Estimate & Inspection

If you’re interested in getting your home’s roof redone, we’d love to offer you a free estimate and inspection. Contact Aesthetic Elements, Inc. www.buildwithae.com for everything that you’ll need to keep your roof up to date on what’s trending and the best materials to keep your home safe from severe weather.

Serving your needs in Iowa- Steven Langan 319-236-6100 and Florida- Cody Langan 850-300-8398 .

3 Steps To Replacing Your Roof

Wed, 20 Oct 2021 21:53:15 GMT

When it comes to choosing colors, do you see yourself as a superhero? If you do, that is fantastic. If you don’t, that’s okay,

too, because Aesthetic Elements guides you with resources to make a great color choice. I want you to feel color confident when selecting colors for your home’s exterior. All you need to be the superhero in your color story is a little knowledge to succeed. With these steps you will select a color and be very happy with the results you achieve.

Siding and soffit is the main body of color that will help determine if you should pick warmer hues, or if you can go bold.
Stone and brick can also be main deciding factors. They create a color cast, which is a mix of colors. When looking at your home, the color cast will present a dominant color. This is the overall color you want to compliment.
We can always suggest color combinations for different styles of homes. Some more common styles in our area include: Bungalow, Colonial, Contemporary, Craftsman, French Provincial, and the one story Ranch.

When you need a visual, it is easy to upload a photo of your home and sample the different colors that appeal to you. We install a lot of Owen’s Corning and would suggest the following visualizer as a resource to use: https://www.owenscorning.com/en-us/roofing/roof-visualizer

Some current questions we have been asked are below. Any additional questions can be answered by Steven Langan, Owner steve@buildwithae.com Iowa, and Cody Langan, Sales Agent cody@buildwithae.com , Florida.

Currently this is October 2021. Materials overall are 20-25% higher than 2019.
You will typically choose Standard Laminated Architectural Shingles, or Designer Shingles.
Designer Shingles are richer and more variated in colors. They also resemble the looks of slate, tile, and shake.
Designer shingles have a longer wait time of three plus months.
The color of shingle you select need to be sold in your region. Most manufacturers hi-lite the regions on their website.
Above all, we have the knowledge to guide you in your decision and help this process be hassle free so that you can continue to live your life focusing on all the other responsibilities you have. We have plenty of samples on hand to drop off, depending on your preference for selection.

Spring is coming!

Thu, 22 Apr 2021 23:36:39 GMT

Spring brings with it lots of happy events. The flowers start to bloom, the sun feels warmer, and outdoor activities in nature increase. Though spring is generally a happy time of year, it is worth remembering that it also brings an increased risk of severe weather. Tornado season extends from March to June in most parts of the Midwest. During this time, it’s important to be as prepared as possible in case an emergency does occur. A stock of bottled water and flashlights will help in case of outages, and many families and schools make a plan in case a tornado strikes. As you are making these plans, it’s beneficial to remember to keep your home safe too. There are several things you can do to protect your home from a tornado and minimize the damage to your roof.

1. Have your trees trimmed

Maintaining your trees is a common task in the springtime for most homeowners, whether they live in a tornado-prone area or not. Trees that are especially old or tall fracture easily under the pressure of wind and flying debris. Have a landscaper inspect your tree and remove any dead branches or excess twigs that could easily fly off in a storm.

2. Secure outdoor furniture

It’s very important to have a plan for patio furniture. In the case of inclement weather or a storm in the forecast, secure your patio furniture or bring it inside.

3. Clean your gutters

Gutters are a natural gathering spot for debris in the springtime. As the snow melts, it brings every object from your roof down into your gutters. This debris can prevent water from effectively draining off of your roof, which becomes a problem in a storm. Without a clear gutter to direct it, the water can leak into your home, flood your yard or pool on your roof. All of these possibilities have expensive consequences. Clean gutters will direct the water away from your home and into the sewers where it belongs. While the gutters are being cleaned, make sure to secure any loose screws that are holding the metal to your roof. This small detail can prevent your gutters from being torn off by wind gusts.

4. Have your roof inspected

Tornado season is a perfect excuse to have your roof inspected. This should be done regularly anyway, and having it done in the springtime is ideal. An expert will be able to tell you if there are any areas of concern or issues that make you particularly vulnerable to storm damages. Some examples of problems are:

Roof deterioration or rot. Excess moisture will eat away at your roofing materials. If left unchecked, these spots are extremely vulnerable to breakage during storms.
Loose nails. As with your gutters, securing all parts of your roof can help to ensure that nothing flies off during periods of strong wind.
Leaks. If there is a leak in your roof, there is the possibility of flooding and excess damage. Sealing leaks ensures that the inside of your home stays dry and protected.

This is not an exhaustive list of possible problems. A professional roofer will be able to thoroughly assess your roof and give you a detailed list of possible weak spots.

How to File an Insurance Claim for your Roof the Right Way:

Tue, 09 Feb 2021 19:39:22 GMT

Filing an insurance claim for roof repair can seem intimidating and you may have heard stories of how tricky insurance adjusters can be with technicalities to deny your claim. This does happen quite easily, unless you report the damage correctly. It is best to contact a professional roofer , particularly with experience in assessing storm damage and able to survey the condition of your roof. They will give you a better idea as to whether your insurance company will cover repairs or replacement. Often times, these assessments are a free no obligatory service.

What I provide to help you get coverage for as much damage as possible, includes:

Documenting the storm and date the damage occurred; photos and details to show the damage, (crinkled shingles, missing shingles, leak spots on the ceiling inside your home). Also, pictures of any trees that have fallen or damage to your car or siding. Always make sure to take photos with time and date documented on them. This helps back your case that the storm happened on a certain day. Local weather service reports also makes it difficult for the insurance company to refute. In fact, including this information in your claim gives them a reason to provide more accurate rates.

Look to see what roof damage your insurance policy covers in the event of a storm. You may have to dig a bit further to find out. You might need a new roof without suffering a catastrophic event. Quality shingles will last 15-20 years or longer, so there’s a pretty good chance you may have damage at some point. Whether it’s enough to justify a whole-roof replacement – or even justify filing a claim – depends on the situation.

The most important thing to remember is that neglecting roof maintenance may result in zero coverage, even when disaster strikes. Working with a Professional Roofer, Steven Langan @buildwithae.com, is a perfect solution to help you navigate the insurance process.

After a large storm, your area might be crawling with amateur roofing companies – or worse, scam artists. This is why we recommend working with local contractors that don’t disappear once the work is done.

There are a few items to answer:

How much is your deductible?
What is the total cost of repairs?
Have you’ve filed claims before?

In theory, you should be able to file a claim whenever your home needs repairs, as long as its covered by your policy. But it’s critical not to overdo the claims or it may put up red flags for your insurance provider. Worse, your claims history goes in a national database and new insurance companies might refuse to take you on or could charge you an outlandish rate. Honesty is really the best and only policy we practice.

We understand receiving a denied claim from your insurance company or receiving an unfair low settlement offer, can leave you feeling intimidated and scared. The reality is that you don’t have to accept it.

If you are in the market for a new roof or have possible storm damage, call us today. Aesthetic Elements, Inc . Steve Langan 319.236.6100 . www.BuildWithAE.com . We are here to provide you knowledge and empower you to receive the best roof for your money in a timely manner.

Winter Roof Leaks

Wed, 20 Jan 2021 21:57:58 GMT

Winter Roof Leaks

While there may be some repairs that have to wait until spring, some winter roof leaks need to be repaired as soon as possible.

A few of the common culprits are ice dams, clogged gutters, condensation, and damaged shingles.

Ice Dams: Ice dams occur when snow melts and travels down the slope of your roof, then cools and refreezes at the eaves, creating thick ridges of ice. These ridges block water and snow from moving off your roof, which then refreeze as a new layer. Eventually, water can travel backwards underneath your roof’s shingles, where it can enter your home as a leak. If ice dams aren’t removed, they can cause serious damage to your roof and home’s structure.

Clogged Gutters: If your gutters become blocked with ice, leaves, or dirt, then they can’t effectively drain water, ice, and snow away from your roof. Similar to ice dams, clogged gutters can cause water to back up and seep under your shingles, and cause your roof to start leaking in winter.

Attic Condensation: When warm, humid air from your home rises in the winter, it reaches the attic and cools, creating condensation. If too much condensation forms, it can have serious consequences for the health of your roof and even cause winter roof leaks. Excess water in your attic from condensation can also cause mildew, mold, or rot.

Damaged Shingles: Cracked, damaged or missing shingles can also be a cause of winter roof leaks. If your roof was damaged in a storm due to high winds, hail, or a falling tree branch, it could have removed shingles and left your roof deck exposed to water. For this reason, it’s important to inspect your roof after a storm, and make sure the shingles are secure before winter weather sets in.

What to Do if Your Roof is Leaking in Winter: If you notice your roof leaking in winter, what can you do? The key is to identify the problem early, or call a professional to identify & repair it. At minimum you could get a temporary solution and schedule the repair for spring. Catch

Winter Roof Leaks Early: The key to resolving problems with your roof is identifying them quickly, before they cause more damage. In winter, it’s especially important to spot leaks early. Signs of winter roof leaks include water stains on interior or exterior walls, water dripping from the ceiling or through ventilating fans, and condensation on skylights. These are all indicators that something is going on with your roof.

Call a Professional: If you notice any sign your roof is leaking in winter, it’s best to call a professional roofer to inspect the damage and recommend the best course of action. If the fix involves working on your roof, serious repairs will likely have to wait until spring, when it’s safer for the roofer and your roof.

Find a Temporary Solution: our roofer may be able to suggest a short term solution or perform a temporary repair until they can return to fix the problem. For example, ice dams might indicate that your roof needs additional ventilation and insulation to prevent recurring leaks. While they may not be able to get on to your roof until spring, they can remove existing ice dams and use fans to help regulate the temperature in your attic.

If you discover any roof leaks this winter, don’t worry. Call me today. Steven Langan, 319-236-6100.

How to choose a new roof?

Wed, 11 Nov 2020 19:59:27 GMT

Determining your new roof needs. These criteria should identify exactly what you want to accomplish with your project. By knowing the benefits or features you’d like in your roof, you can avoid later disappointment.

As you envision your home’s new protective roof and what you’d like it to accomplish, here is a list of things that homeowners often make decisions on:

Aesthetics. Is what your roof looks like important to you? If so, would you like something very traditional looking such as a shingle look or perhaps something bolder with a shake or a very contemporary look such as standing seam ?

Long-Life Durability. If you intend to live in your home for 10+ years, warranties may mean a great deal to your decision. Otherwise, it may mean less. We will help you determine the difference between a variety of shingles; 3-tab, lifetime warranty architectural, and designer series lifetime architectural as well as metal, or any other preferred choice.

Fire Safety. Larger areas of the country seem prone to firestorms these days. If you’re in one of those areas, then a non-combustible roof may be part of your criteria.

Wind Resistance. Similar to fire safety, if high winds tend to be a problem in your area or if hurricanes threaten you regularly, then a metal roof with interlocking panels will provide the protection you appreciate. We are in both Florida and Iowa, and have a variety of different needs between both. Iowa just got hit by the derecho, so wind is definitely a concern for all of our clients.

Energy Efficiency. Homeowners who live in hot climates or who are very sensitive to the operating costs of their home will often seek metal roofs with reflective coatings and even integral thermal breaks to reduce their summer energy costs by up to 20% or more.

Contact us when you are ready for a new roof. We would love to help you through the process!! steve@buildwithae.com or Aesthetic Elements, Inc., Steven Langan 319-236-6100.

5 KEY ELEMENTS THAT PROMOTE PHYSICAL & MENTAL HEALTH IN YOUR HOME

Mon, 09 Nov 2020 16:56:57 GMT

1. Air Quality. There are a variety of ways to enhance good air quality in your home. Designing spaces to create a cross breeze, installing an air purifier, and horticulture offer a therapeutic touch. Bringing nature inside with plants, natural materials such as knotty wood walls, and large windows offer an outdoor feel.

2. Lighting. Incorporating natural light and a pleasing ambiance with artificial light benefits you at certain times of the day. A personal favorite is amber light in the evening to promote calming down for a good night sleep.

3. Ergonomic Comfort. Creating a flow and movement in your living space. Making sure furniture has plenty of space in between, removing obstacles from the traffic paths. Many still utilize feng shui and consider how all five senses will experience the design. Also consider your chromotherapy, aka color therapy, aromatherapy, sustainability, and biophilia that brings in the nature component we long to connect with.

4. Thermal comfort. Maintaining a comfortable temperature with a smart thermostat, in floor heating, and sealing windows and doors can help with comfort. If you can't add the in floor heat, then you can always improvise by having blankets handy.

5. Acoustic Comfort. Music also plays a big part of creating your mood. To have a speaker with some light music on when you are cooking or taking a bath, can really create a different vibe rather than the news channel constantly playing in the background.

It's all in the details, and fun to create what works best for you. Many thrive when they incorporate all of these elements that invoke a happy, calm, relaxing environment.

Hurricane Tie

Fri, 02 Oct 2020 15:42:05 GMT

Back in 2015 a lot of contractors questioned if Hurricane Ties were really necessary when building homes in Iowa. The derecho proved to be an event where you must be prepared for the worst!

The August 2020 Midwest derecho was a severe weather event which took place from August 10–11, 2020 across the Midwest. The derecho caused widespread high winds and spawned an outbreak of low-class tornadoes. In addition, certain areas reported torrential rain and large hail.

Sustained wind speeds of 70 miles per hour were prevalent. The highest measured wind speed was 126 mph and the highest estimated damage was from 140 mph, equivalent to a Category 4 hurricane. Both events occurred in Iowa.

As you can see in the attached photos, the wind lifted the roof from the double top plate and at the same time pushed the wall over. So when it came back down it was not together. You can see all of the nails that pulled out of that double top plate. The combination of the uplift and shear, (horizontal pressure), can tip a house over.

Working with clients I seen a lot of this first hand and wanted to share why those hurricane ties are essential to having a properly built home that can keep its strength and integrity through such an event as the derecho.

Hurricane ties are designed to resist high winds and seismic forces by positively connecting trusses/rafters to a double plate, and the top of the wall. These ties are hardware pieces that connect the joists to cantilevered beams to reduce uplift forces caused by high winds. These are inexpensive and are a good precaution to use wherever high winds may be a problem, especially in zones where hurricanes and tornadoes are common.

Why Be Proactive When It Comes To Your Flat Roof?

Thu, 25 Jun 2020 17:18:00 GMT

I can think of a 101 other tasks you have to do other than schedule inspections on your flat roof. HOWEVER- one of the most common mistakes commercial businesses make is to not have a roof inspection during the summer season. Any minor damage that may have been overlooked can quickly escalate once your roof is pitted against fall wind, debris, and precipitation. It is financially smart to know your flat roof is ready for winter. Think of damages like dominos. Once they start, it is very hard to get ahead of it.

Aesthetic Elements, Inc., www.buildwithae.com, is experienced and licensed to help you with the following:

● Infra-red roof inspection

● Flat roof repair

● Commercial roof replacement

We’ll assess the condition of your roof using state-of-the-art infrared technology to help extend the life of your commercial roof.

At Aesthetic Elements, the safety of our community is important to our team. We offer online estimates and contact-free service for a safer roof repair during the COVID-19 outbreak. To connect with a member of our team, give us a call at 319-236-6100 or contact us online to schedule your roof inspection today.

What Is Roof Flashing?

Mon, 08 Jun 2020 20:53:57 GMT

The roofing system is composed of several components and made from different materials. Along with shingles and gutters, the roof flashing plays an essential role in keeping your roof and home free of water damage. But what is it exactly? Aesthetic Elements, (BuildWithAE.com), helps you understand what roof flashing is, and some helpful points to consider:

What Is Roof Flashing?

Flashing is a thin strip of material, usually made from galvanized steel, that protects the roofing system. It secures joints in your roof and is installed in areas that receive a lot of water. With adequate flashing, water will be successfully delivered into gutters; without it, water leaks will definitely start appearing in vulnerable areas of the roof.

What Areas Need Flashing?

Roof flashing is installed in areas where there are joints or penetration.

Valleys – The space where two slopes of the roof meet is called a valley. The two slopes both direct rainwater into the valley, making it a vulnerable area for moisture-related issues. To protect the valley, Aesthetic Elements will typically install a flashing made from long pieces of sheet metal.

Chimneys – a special type of flashing system is required here since it’s one of the most important penetrations in a roof. Three types of flashing are installed around a chimney. They are called step flashing (on the sides), apron (below) and cricket (above). I see a lot of DIY installations around chimneys that leave the homeowner’s roof vulnerable to costly damage.

Skylights – generally requires a tight seal with the roof. A continuous piece of sheet metal flashing is installed on each side of the skylight.

Dormers – A dormer is both a joint and a meeting between two slopes. Similarly in a valley, a length of sheet metal protects the seam between the roof of the dormer and the rest of the roof.

For superior quality roofing products and installation services, turn to Aesthetic Elements Roofing . We’re proud to be one of the leading installers for both Iowa and Florida. Contact us today to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation.

Deciding on your new home design?

Fri, 15 May 2020 22:10:44 GMT

Deciding on your new home design? We know there are dozens of considerations that come into play. Starting with an architectural style that fits your personality, budget, and the location where you’re building. One of the factors that you may not have considered, but should, is the question of whether to include a steep roof in your design.

Why?

I love a flat roof, but there are a number of steep roof pitch advantages that you’ve likely never thought about. The Modern Farm House takes advantage of the steep roof pitch. You benefit from greater energy efficiency and less sun damage.

Steep roofs come in lots of different shapes, sizes, and styles.

So, what exactly is a steep roof?

Most people would consider any roof that has a rise/run ratio over 6:12 as a ‘steep roof.’ That would be a roof that rises six inches for every foot it runs across. Today, most residential roofs rarely go over a 12:12 pitch. Older homes often had a more extreme pitch, thus lasting longer. We will touch on a number of clear advantages vs. more gradually pitched roofs. Advantages listed below:

Steep Roof Pitch Advantages

1. They’re More Energy Efficient

Steep roofs give you the advantage of a cold roof system – an important feature of any home that’s in a colder climate. Cold roof systems allow air to flow between the roofing tiles and the timber that’s above your home’s ceiling. In addition to this, a cold roof system cuts down on the amount of ice damage your home experiences. With a warm roof, snow and ice will melt as the heat in your home warms your roof. That snow will melt and begin to drain to the cooler edges of your roof where it will refreeze. All this freezing and refreezing can cause ice dams and gradually end up causing more damage to your home over the long haul.

2. More Living & Storage Space

A steep roof can give you the advantage of additional storage space that you wouldn’t otherwise have. Attics can make a major difference in keeping your home tidy and livable. And even if you don’t need the storage, you may consider additional living space. You would have the option to turn the area under your steep roof into a stylish loft or self-contained apartment.

3. Fewer Leaks

When rain falls on a gradually sloping roof, it pools, adding stress to the roof and even seeping down through any spaces into the area under the roof. Over time, this can lead to major structural damage and can leave you with leaks. Steep roofs rarely have this problem. Instead, the water quickly runs off the roof and into gutters where it’s properly drained and isn’t given the chance to do damage to your home. This minimizes roof damage and leaks. And since steep roofs tend to drain more effectively, you can also use them to collect rainwater more effectively. So, not only will the rain not wreak havoc, you’ll be able to use it for your benefit. It’s just one more advantage to steep roofs.

4. Reduced Snow Damage

If you live in a colder climate, snow’s likely a normal part of your life. You’ve learned to drive in it. You’ve got the equipment to quickly remove it from your driveway. And you have all the right accessories to stay warm – even when it’s freezing outside. But what you may not have considered is the damage that snow can do to a gradual pitch roof. When snow collects, it can be incredibly heavy. And all that extra weight can do a real number on your home. Steep roofs use gravity to keep snow from building up. This not only helps maintain the structural integrity of your home by the lack of weight, it also means that you’ll experience fewer problems associated with snow – like leaks, etc.

5. Superior Durability

The end result is simply that steep pitch roofs last longer. You can enjoy the superior space that a steep roof affords right alongside its greater durability.

What you want to know about Commercial Flat Roofs

Thu, 07 May 2020 18:05:02 GMT

Roofing Proposals 101

Understanding the best solution can be difficult enough without adding in products, terminology, etc. When proposals are vague, it’s easy to miss things. So let’s break this down:

In FLAT COMMERCIAL ROOFING, there are a few key points to keep an eye out for in a quality proposal.

These include:

Tear Off or Lay Over? If there are two or more roofs, or if the underlying insulation is wet, a tear off is generally required. If one roof is in place and only a few areas are wet, then the wet areas can be replaced on a limited basis. However, in flat commercial roofing, there is a big cost difference between removing the existing roof system and going over it. Therefore, it is very important to know what solution your contractor is proposing.
Insulation Thickness and “R” value. Typically, in a lay-over application, a minimum of 1” polyisocyanurate insulation or ½” HD polyisocyanurate insulation is used as a separation between the old roof system and the new roof system. If it’s a full tear off, building code typically requires that the insulation be brought back to code. In 2020, this could mean installing 4.5” to 5.2” of insulation, depending on what building code calls for in your state. This is another reason why a full tear off is so much more expensive. It’s not just the cost of the tear off, it adds the cost of the additional insulation as well.
Insulation Type: Typically, most flat commercial roofing contractors will recommend polyisocyanurate insulation on a flat roof system. It is by far the best product available for flat commercial roofing. If Fiberboard insulation is being proposed, be aware. Although cheaper, Fiberboard absorbs water like a sponge, which will cause a variety of problems including deterioration and premature failure of the roof membrane.
Manufacturer: The product being used can make a big difference in quality and product cost. Using a reputable manufacturer is extremely important because they are also more likely to stand behind their product. 5. Membrane Type: TPO, EPDM, and PVC are the most common products available. However, modified bitumen and built-up roofing are still used by some customers. Knowing which roof system you are getting and the basic pros and cons of each system are essential to making the right choice for your building. No roof system is the silver bullet.
Membrane Thickness: Most single-ply membranes come in thicknesses of .045 (Thinnest) to .090 (Thickest). Currently, .060 is the most common membrane that we install because it is generally the best price to performance. However, if your roof has heavy foot traffic, or if you want to maximize the longevity of your roof system, consider a thicker membrane.
Attachment Type: There are four main attachment methods of single ply roofing. They are fully adhered, mechanically attached, and ballasted. Each attachment technique has different costs, strengths, and weaknesses. It’s important to understand what your contractor is proposing and why in order to make the best choice.
Warranty Type and Length: Understanding the type of warranty you are getting is very important. A longer warranty is not always a better warranty. Getting a full system warranty that includes labor and materials might be better. Most of the membrane manufacturers will include the contractor’s workmanship as part of their warranty, which also means that they will provide a roof inspection at the end of the project. Having a third party inspection by the roof manufacturer who owns the warranty is crucial for providing peace of mind.

Aesthetic Elements strives to provide a thorough proposal that explains everything we are suggesting to give you the best roof. We encourage our prospective customers to meet with us and review our proposal in person. It’s always easier to understand a solution after a face to face meeting with someone knowledgeable on commercial roofing.

Hopefully this was helpful and we would love to help you out in all of your roofing needs. Contact me, steve@buildwithae.com .

10 hours Roofing Job

Wed, 29 Apr 2020 15:23:45 GMT

This is how a 10 hours roofing job looks like.

Hi Guys!

I wanted to share one of our roofing jobs from last week. I condensed our 10 1/2 hour day down to two minutes with some details. Hope this helps and please share if you know someone in the market for a new roof.

Thanks!!

Steven

What you need to know about shingle installation?

Tue, 28 Apr 2020 15:30:06 GMT

When you choose to have a reputable and licensed roofing contractor install shingles, you can dramatically affect the value of your home.

When you do repairs, no matter how easy they appear, value swings in the opposite direction.

The biggest concerns are:

1. Choosing cheap materials, and

2. Warranties not transferring

If you are thinking about doing roof repair or replacement work at your home; here is why you would choose Aesthetic Elements to do the work instead:

You will learn all your roofing options as well as the differences. You get to make a well informed decision on a large upgrade to your home.
2. No matter what shingles you choose, you must know the exact way to install them or you will likely have problems.
3. It’s not just money. It is knowledge and experience. There are reasons for cheaper roof repair services. Do you know what you are not getting?
4. We will explain how you benefit from a LIFETIME WARRANTY.

Curb Appeal

Fri, 28 Feb 2020 18:35:59 GMT

Curb Appeal Matters

As one of the biggest drivers of value and curb appeal, the exterior of your home and its color should be updated to fit in with modern trends. If you are in the market for a new house, then it’s important to know the trends before the house’ design is finalized. Also, especially important if you’re looking to put your house on the market sometime in the near future, and plan to do an exterior update.

Take a look at these home color trends for 2020 that are sure to both add value to your home and increase its curb appeal.

Homeowners are pairing more dynamic colors. Mixing light & dark shades together for a beautiful contrast.
Richer colors like charcoal, chocolate, deep reds are at a high demand right now.
Blending siding types. Having three different materials blended together for a modern- rustic look.
Blending siding of different widths together, which have been requested in many of our new builds. This also creates a more modern look, and has been common among the “Modern Farm House” style.

All of these options are beautiful and really maximize your curb appeal. Contact Aesthetic Elements , Inc. today!! If you would like to know more about my company, please visit us online @ www.buildwithae.com

Workmanship Warranties

Fri, 21 Feb 2020 17:46:07 GMT

In regards to the workmanship warranty you receive from your contractor, please consider the following:

Are you receiving a written and legal warranty or just a “promise” and perhaps a note on your contract?
What does the warranty cover, and what does it not cover? Contractors often do not want to give long warranties, citing the possibility of “Acts of God.” One option is to have a warranty that excludes damage or problems resulting from Acts of God.
For how long is the warranty? Does it transfer to future owners or, perhaps, a surviving spouse?
Who is providing the warranty? What is their track record and length of time in business?
How seriously a contractor takes their warranty likely mirrors how seriously they will take your home.

Hiring A Contractor

Tue, 21 Jan 2020 18:55:00 GMT

Building with AE

Wed, 15 Jan 2020 18:05:37 GMT

Clients Choice for Master Baths 2019

Eighty-four percent of our clients chose the enlarge their shower, even if it meant they had to give their tub up. Among our Tub Lovers, free-standing was the top pick. Ceramic or Porcelain is the most popular material for remodels right now.

Bathroom Materials

Marble-Granite-Slate-Tavertine-Quartz-Limestone-Onyx

Things to Consider When Designing, Remodeling, or Upgrading Your Bathroom

Installing the same color tiles for floor and walls
Make windows as big as you can
Don't forget the power of good lighting!
If space is tight, consider a sliding door
Match plumbing fixtures with bathroom accessories for a streamlined look

Roof Maintenance Tips For This Winter

Wed, 15 Jan 2020 17:50:51 GMT

Winter can bring some extra wear and tear to your roof. To help prevent costly damage, check out these roof maintenance tips for this winter.

We are approaching winter, which means temperatures are dipping and you'll likely spend a lot more time inside. Is your roof ready to support your warm home?

Keeping your roof in tip-top shape is a year-round endeavor. Yet, it's especially important to focus on roof maintenance during these cold-weather months. Between the snow and freezing temperatures, this is when your roof will take the biggest hit.

Taking the time to properly safeguard it is paramount.

Today, we're taking a look at 7 ways you can maintain your roof during the winter to make sure it's operating at peak performance.

Ready to learn more? Let's get started!

1. Remove Snow ASAP

Snow on a rooftop can look postcard perfect. Unfortunately, it can also wreak havoc if it's left to sit for too long.

Along with ice, snow creates a heavy weight on your roof. This means that anywhere it's even slightly compromised could be at risk of major damage.

If precipitation remains on your roof, it can create what's known as an ice dam when it melts. Water on a roof is nothing new, but it's the re-freezing that creates the issue.

When temperatures drop below freezing (usually overnight), the melted ice hardens back up again. As a result, it creates a dam in or around your gutters, backing up any runoff precipitation. This can loosen your shingles or even create a leak.

Remove all ice and snow from your roof as quickly and thoroughly as possible to keep it dry longer. As the conditions can make the surfaces slippery, it's often wise to hire a roof maintenance company to come and take care of the issue for you.

2 . Repair Flashing

When starting your wintertime roof maintenance routine, take a look first at your existing flashing. Even if it was installed correctly years ago, over time it can become warped or even loosened.

If it's faulty, strive to get it fixed as soon as you can. If too much excess moisture builds up, you're looking at an interior leak.

The same concept applies to your shingles. If any are beginning to peel up or chip, have them replaced immediately. Left unsecured, they allow moisture to build and seep into your ceiling.

3. Check Your Gutters

One of the first places that freezing precipitation will accumulate.

That's why it's important to check them regularly for any signs of ice dams. One rule of thumb is that if you see icicles hanging off of them, you're likely already looking at a build-up.

The first concern is that if they're filled with ice, your gutters can simply become weakened, unable to hold all that weight. As a result, they can tear away from your home. This creates significant structural damage and leaves you slapped with a major repair bill.

Getting rid of all ice dams at the first sign of formation is key to keeping your gutters strong and working properly.

4. Remediate All Wind Damage

While snow and ice are the first two conditions that come to mind when you think about wintertime roof maintenance, don't discount the incredible power of wind. If a major storm comes through your area, wind can be just as detrimental as any form of wet precipitation.

If left untreated, these vulnerable spots won't just open your home up to leaks. They'll also serve as breeding grounds for some pretty nasty bacteria, mold, and mildew. So, contact your roof maintenance professional to come patch or replace any areas that wind tears away. We also work with insurance companies to help you get repair and/or replacement coverage when storm damage occurs.

5. Check Your Attic Ventilation

You might not realize it, but the performance of your attic is directly linked to the performance of your roof. Why? If your attic is poorly ventilated or insulated, it can expose your roof more directly to the winter elements, allowing problems like ice dams to form.

When performing your roof maintenance inspection, go inside and make sure your attic has sufficient insulation and has solid routes for ventilation. Keeping the airflow consistent is key to keeping your roof as protected as possible.

6 . Clear All Debris

Before the winter storms roll in, make sure your roof and all surrounding elements such as gutters, flashing, and downspouts, are free of debris. This can include pine needles, leaves, and other grime that can accumulate on its surface. Take a rake or broom and clear as much as possible in the autumn months to keep your roof clear all winter long.

7. Hire a Professional Inspection

While there are some roof maintenance tasks you can perform yourself, if you really want to get your home in quality shape for the winter, it's best to hire a professional roofing company to take care of the major work.

By letting the experts analyze your roof, you’ll also have the peace of mind that everything is properly checked and repaired, if needed.

Home Renovations That Yield A Return

Wed, 15 Jan 2020 17:44:03 GMT

The key to making a smart decision about what to upgrade in your home when you are preparing to sell takes some research. I am here to help!! The good news is, smaller, inexpensive upgrades often bring in a bigger reward than a more involved and time consuming one.

Research shows the biggest payoff will yield from the following upgrades:

Curb Appeal- Fresh paint inside and out with some basic landscaping tends to be the most needed upgrade when preparing your home to sell. Basic landscaping can run approximately $3,000, according to recent research conducted by zillow.com and thumbtack.com. Choosing the right eye-catching colors can increase a home’s value beyond just the appeal of a fresh paint job. Zillow Analysis found that yellow homes sell for $3,500 less than expected, while the right color of door can lead to an extra $6,000 in the Seller’s pocket. If you struggle with color, I would suggest going to some new subdivisions, snap a couple pictures to show the expert at the paint store. You can also visit some design websites, or the box stores, such as: lowes.com; HomeDepot.com; or menards.com. Another favorite one of my reminders is presentation and getting all the leaves, dirt, and cob webs cleaned up from the front door to make your Best First Impression!

Upgrade the Bathrooms, (but not too much)- A new toilet, tub, sink, faucet, and flooring if needed. If you have carpet, I would start by removing that and installing tile or some waterproof LVT. The “gross factor” of carpet sticks with buyers and could make them eliminate your home as soon as they see it.

Install New Windows- mid-range windows with a good rating are fine. You do not have to get too fancy, but something that is updated and energy efficient is a huge plus for the buyers.

De-clutter- Just do it. Clean & Organized goes hand in hand here.

Roof Inspection- Such an important part of the home and protecting the buyers investment. Call today- Steven Langan 319-236-6100 - Aesthetic Elements, Inc./ www.buildwithae.com - steve@buildwithae.com.

Less likely to pay off:

When I read a kitchen upgrade fell in one of the lowest categories for return, it made sense. It is one of the few rooms that people have more specific wants. You could spend $30,000 renovating your kitchen only to have a buyer that would do it completely different. Because this room is a lot more expensive to renovate, it might be one of the projects the buyer prefers to take on.

The only other renovation studied that showed low returns was the basement. This area is not typically expensive to finish, however some people just do not need the space, and will be taxed for it.

Data provided from 2018 Zillow Consumer Housing Trends Report and Rewriting the Rules of Real Estate.

Changing of Seasons

Wed, 15 Jan 2020 17:38:16 GMT

The changing of seasons affects your home just as much as it affects your body. As your body tenses up with the cold, so does your home, and as your limbs ease into the warmer weather, your home does the same. Right now, we’re in the midst of winter, which means it’s time to prepare your home for the chill of the season. If you’ve ever wondered how does winter weather affect your roof in particular, here are a couple main things that impact your roof, from snow to ice to general cold weather.

1 . Ice dams are a prevalent threat your roof faces during the winter season, and easy to prevent. Ice damming occurs when the warmth inside your home and the hot rays of the sun combine, melting the snow and ice on your roof. A properly vented roof will allow the warm air to escape your attic and cool air to enter. This environment keeps your attic the same temp as outside which keeps everything in check.

2. Lack of insulation will also release too much heat from your living space into the attic, and the intake vents can’t keep up with pushing the hot air out and cool air in cycle. Plus the fact of heating the great outdoors is not energy efficient and hard on your pocket book. The appropriate amount of insulation will keep your attic the same temperature as outside and your living space nice and cozy.

Ice and water issues include ice damming, new leakage points, and more. Proper maintenance and prevention is key when it comes to the change of seasons impact on your home. Call us today if you need an inspection on your roof. Aesthetic Elements, Inc. Steven Langan, Owner steve@buildwithae.com .

5 Ways To Prepare Your Home For Storms

Wed, 15 Jan 2020 17:33:06 GMT

We can’t control the weather, but we can ensure that our homes are prepared for storms and snow, protecting our properties and ourselves.

Every year, it’s important to inspect your roof and home to check for any signs of damage. Typically damage goes undetected unless you have a professional contractor experienced in looking for signs of storm damage.

Once you know your roof is in good condition, there are a few things you can do to prepare your home for impending storms.

1 . Clear gutters, downspouts, and drains:

Once heavy rain or snow hits, gutters and drains take the brunt of it. Make sure you check the gutters and drains and remove any leaves or debris. You should also consider gutter guard on your gutters to prevent debris piling up. Talk to your professional contractor if you are interested in these options.

2 . Secure loose items around your property:

Strong winds can wreak havoc on your property and surrounding areas. Loose or unsecured items can be picked up easily and become dangerous projectiles during a storm.

To best ensure your items don’t damage your property or neighboring houses, make sure everything is properly secured or moved inside.

3 . Maintain tree branches close to your house:

Nearby trees can become very dangerous during a storm. Branches can easily break and damage your home and take down power lines.

If you’re not skilled in removing them yourself, contact a tree removal company to remove them for you. They will assess the trees around your property and identify the dangerous branches or trees to remove.

4 . Move important items off the ground if flood threatens:

Even if your home is not in a flood plain, streets and properties can very quickly become flooded if there are drainage issues nearby.

Make sure that any important or dangerous items in your home, basement and garage are moved to higher ground. This is particularly important for electrical items and power points, as these can become very dangerous if submerged in water.

5 . Learn how to safely turn off your power, water and gas:

To further protect yourself and your home, you may need to turn off the power, water and gas supplies to your property during a violent storm. This will ensure that you are safe if these services become damaged or contaminated. We encourage you to have a generator on hand if you live in an area that is hard to get out of.

Learn where your electrical box, water meter, water shutoff, and gas supply areas are so you can safely turn these off and then back on once the storm has passed. Read all safety precautions while learning how to do this so you are prepared in the moment.

We always hope for un-eventful seasons, but everything is easier when prepared.