Category Archives: WCCO Home Improvement Show

3 components to a perfect looking deck! Inspect, Clean & Stain!

Posted by Andy Lindus on May 17, 2013 – 2:48 pm
Filed under Andy Lindus, LeafGuard, Lindus Construction, WCCO Home Improvement Show, www.lindusconstruction.com
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With year round exposure to sun, rain and let’s not forget that four letter word that plagued us for the last seven months….snow, in our neck of the woods it takes a toll on your wood deck. Anyone who has a wooden deck knows that sitting on it is much more enjoyable when it is sparkling clean and properly stain and sealed. Your deck will start to look old, gray and battered when it is in need of some TLC. The appearance of your deck is not the only thing that suffers from lack of attention, but also the integrity of the wood elements can begin to breakdown losing its protection and begins to split and rot. When restoring a wooden deck it is extremely important to prep the wood correctly and also to be careful not to damage the wood due to excessive power washing or scrubbing. Here is how to inspect, clean and stain your deck the right way!

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How to test & inspect your deck

The easiest way to ensure that your deck needs to be stained again is the water test. Sprinkle water on the deck and if it soaks in immediately the deck is in need of resealing. It the water beads up and stands on the deck you may not need to reseal quite yet. If you notice that your deck is turning gray in color, has mold or mildew accumulating on it or if the boards are beginning to rot and split, your deck is in some need of care.  It is extremely important to prep the wood correctly when it comes to restoring an older deck. Failure to do so will result in premature failure of the stain no matter the brand or cost. It will not last as long as it should if it is not applied to cleaned and prepped surfaces.

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Remove furniture and inspect your deck

Preparing your deck for the next processes is imperative if you want your stain to have maximum longevity. Remove all the deck furniture, grills or any other tangible products that are resting on it. Inspect the deck for boards that need to be repaired or replaced. If you notice splintering wood use 80-grit sandpaper to smooth out its surface. Sweep all loose debris off and don’t forget in between the deck boards. Be sure to water and cover your plants.

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Deck strippers, cleaners & brighteners

The first process you should use is a deck stripper. A deck stripper’s purpose is to remove old finishes such as paint, stains, sealers and loose wood fibers. The next step is to use a deck cleaner. A deck cleaner’s purpose is to remove old grease, grime dirt, organic stains, tree sap and mineral deposits. It will kill mold and mildew that has invaded your deck. The last step is using a deck brightener. A deck brightener’s purpose is to annihilate tough tannin stains and watermarks. It reestablishes the PH balance of your wood after the stripping & cleaning process brightening old gray weathered wood.  We recommend using Penofin® Pro-Tech stripper and cleaner & brightener for the job.

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The stain

A large mistake that homeowners make in cleaning, preparing and staining a deck, is not removing all remnants of the old deck stain. Any stain on the deck that is not completely removed will block any new stain from penetrating the wood properly. Once you start applying your stain, the biggest thing to remember is two thin coats of stain is much more beneficial than one thick coat of stain. Do two to three boards at a time instead of trying to do half the deck at one time. There are a lot of ways to apply stain to your deck such as using a sprayer or roller. Remember that using a paintbrush is the most ideal method when applying stain because it works the stain deep into the wood pores.  We recommend using a wood stain such as Penofin® Verde.  This product is one of its kind being 100% sustainable, petroleum free oil finish with no heavy metal compounds, odors or offensive fumes.  Penofin® Verde is made of the highest quality Brazilian rosewood oils.

Lindus Construction is an expert when it comes to deck design & staining. If you are ready to finally have the deck you have always dreamed of give us a call at 1-800-873-1451 or check us out on the web at www.lindusconstruction.com to set up a free no-obligation estimate. Tune into WCCO AM830 every Saturday from 9am-10am for our Home Improvement Show with Andy Lindus & Denny Long.

 

 

What is Something You Can’t See, Smell or Taste In Your Home?…..Radon Gas!

Posted by Andy Lindus on May 10, 2013 – 1:40 pm
Filed under Andy Lindus, LeafGuard, Lindus Construction, WCCO Home Improvement Show, www.lindusconstruction.com
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Did you know the EPA estimates that nearly 1 out of 15 homes in the U.S. has elevated radon levels? Radon gas is responsible for about 21,000 fatalities each year and the Surgeon General has warned that it is the second leading cause of lung cancer. According to the Minnesota Department of Health, one in three homes in Minnesota has radon levels that pose a serious health risk.  Many homes in Minnesota operate under negative air pressure, especially in the winter. This means that the air pressure inside your home is lower than the surrounding air and soil creating a  vacuum that pulls soil gases, such as radon, into your home.

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What is radon?

Radon is a radioactive gas that comes from the natural decay of uranium that is found in nearly all types of soil. It moves into your home through cracks, gaps and holes in your foundation as well as through your water supply. The gas becomes trapped in your home and builds up over time.

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How to test for radon in your home

It is recommended that all homeowners test for radon.  There are two basic types of radon tests available, short-term & long-term. Short-term tests measure radon levels for 2 to 7 days. This offers a quick and inexpensive way to screen your home for radon gas. Long-term tests are for a minimum of 90 days. They are the best radon tests because they will estimate the average amount of radon in your home. For the best results monitor it for one year so you can incorporate both heating and cooling seasons. The cost of an at home test is usually between $5-$25. They can be purchased at hardware or home supply stores. Make sure when purchasing your kit that it includes the price of laboratory analysis. You can also hire a professional when you need and unbiased, third party involved when purchasing real estate.  You should test your home for radon every 2 to 5 years also conduct a test after purchasing a new heating or central air system.

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How do I find a qualified radon service professional?

If you are looking to hire a professional to test your home, wish to purchase a radon test kit or have any questions about radon gas in your home, you can contact your State Radon representative to determine radon measurements in your state. If you have radon levels over 4pCi/L you may have an opportunity to receive grants for radon mitigation in your home so be sure to check with you local and state ordinances.

Lindus Construction / Midwest LeafGuard is a full service local contractor specializing in LeafGuard Gutters, GAF Asphalt Roofing, SeasonGuard Windows/Siding/Insulation, Home Remodeling & New Construction. For a free no obligation estimate call us at 1-800-873-1451 or check us out on the web at www.lindusconstruction.com. Tune into WCCO 830 every Saturday from 9a-10a.

Kitchen Backsplashes Demystified

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Posted by Andy Lindus on May 6, 2013 – 4:24 pm
Filed under Backsplashes, Ceramic Tile Backsplash, Construction, Glass Backsplash, Laminate Backsplash, Lindus Construction, Marble Backsplash, Slate Backsplash, Stainless Steel Backsplash, Tin Backsplash, WCCO Home Improvement Show
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Believe it, or not, there’s more than just color to consider when picking a backsplash.  Backsplashes come in array of materials.  Bear in mind, that while a backsplash can add some pizazz to your kitchen, its primary function is to save your kitchen walls from sauces and oils used in cooking so that they don’t destroy your kitchen’s paint or wallpaper.  In this blog, we’ll help you understand the various backsplash materials available to you and the ins and outs of each.

Tin: In addition to its eye catching traits, tin can be pressed to create patterns, though this will raise the cost of your backsplash.  Tin backsplashes can misshape or scratch easier than other materials.  An advantage that tin has over stone backsplashes is that it does not need to be sealed to prevent moisture of stains because it is already powder coated.  Tin can easily be cleaned with soap and water; be sure to wipe up any acidic stains as quickly as possible or the tin may discolor. 

Stainless Steel: Stainless steel finds favor with homeowners because it is easy to clean.  However, the material can be easily scratched.  Like tin, stainless steel backsplashes can be pressed to create a plethora of patterns.  Stainless steel does not need to be buffed and polished like other backsplash materials.

Glass: Glass is a popular option because the color choices are endless.  You can choose to go with one color or several to form a pattern.  Glass is stain resistant and is often comprised of recycled materials.  Glass is tricky to cut and should be done so by a professional.  It’s recommended that you work with a professional to install a glass backsplash because grout will show through if applied incorrectly.

Slate: Because slate is a natural stone that exists in nature, your backsplash is guaranteed to be one of a kind.  Slate is available in a multitude of colors.  Slate is naturally waterproof, making it quite easy to maintain.

Marble: Marble provides a luxurious vibe to your kitchen and with a backsplash often being a focal point of a kitchen, having one made out of marble will certainly set the tone for the rest of your kitchen.  A drawback to having a marble backsplash is that marble can be damaged by acidic materials.  Should something come in contact with a marble backsplash that is not properly sealed, damage may occur that cannot be remedied without replacing the tiles that have been affected.

Ceramic Tiles: Ceramic tile gets points because it cleans up easily and is long-lasting.  It requires very little maintenance and cost effective options are plentiful.  However, ceramic tile can vary slightly in its appearance between lots so do your best to make sure that your tile is from the same lot so that everything matches up.

Laminate Perks of laminate backsplashes is that they are easily wiped clean and come in oodles of colors and designs.  They are easy to install.  It’s important to know that laminate provides minimal water resistance and can crack or peel if it is continuously exposed to moisture and humidity.  Its lifespan may be shorter than other types due to this fact.  Heat can also cause blemishes.

Considering remodeling your kitchen? We would like to help you with your vision and design! Call us now at 1-800-873-1451 or check us out on the web at www.lindusconstruction.com to schedule a free in-home estimate today. Tune into AM 830 WCCO on Saturdays from 9:00-10:00am hosted by Denny Long and Andy Lindus to ask questions regarding your home improvement projects.

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Home Appliance Energy Consumption

Posted by Andy Lindus on May 2, 2013 – 3:37 pm
Filed under Andy Lindus, Energy Efficient Homes, LeafGuard, Lindus Construction, WCCO Home Improvement Show, www.lindusconstruction.com
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In the United States, over 20% of our total energy consumption is related to our home and we are the 7th largest per capita consumer of residential energy in the world according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Lighting and appliances in your home account for 10%-50% of your residential energy use. 80% of energy consumption in your home can be directly contributed to your light bulbs, refrigerator, washer & dryer and dishwasher. Below, we are going to talk about the four biggest offenders in residential energy consumption.

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Light bulbs

Incandescent Bulbs – oldest, most common light bulb to date, but also the most wasteful in its category. The lifespan is only 1500-2000 hours. Only 10% of the energy used go to light these bulbs. The other 90% creates heat, which requires additional cooling for comfort.

Compact Fluorescents (CFLs) – these use less electrical energy than incandescent bulbs. They are approximately 3 to 4 times more efficient that incandescent using75% less energy.

Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) – consist of as many as 18 bulbs clustered together. They have come a long way in their innovation fitting most common household fixtures. They only use 1/30 of the energy used by incandescent bulbs and only 1/3 of the electricity consumed by CFLs. LEDs will last up to 10 times longer and hold up well to jarring and bumping because they do not have the filament like incandescent bulbs. The cost of LEDs are initially expensive, but the cost is recouped over time with your energy savings. High-quality LED recessed lighting products are the new rave today incorporating all the best features currently found on the LED lighting market: energy savings up to 80%, 50,000 hour life spans, great light output and color, low environmental impact and the ability to be installed with a dimmer switched adding ambiance to any room.

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Dishwasher

Did you know that a dishwasher consumes 1/3 less hot water than hand washing your dishes? 80-90% of the energy used for your dishwater is consumed by the water heater. Some older dishwashers require a water temperature of at least 130° F to get dishes cleaned. Newer models on the market have smaller booster heaters using less water heating energy.  Save more money while running your dishwasher by choosing an air dry vs. heated drying option.

 

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Washer & Dryer

Horizontal axis washers use 50-75% less energy & water than vertical axis washer, but costs a lot more. On average, it costs about 10 times more to dry a load of laundry than it does to wash it (so if you ware like many American households that “fluff” your laundry in the dryer 3 times before folding think of the energy being wasted doing that). Ways to save money while doing laundry are:

  • Use cold water whenever possible
  • Be sure to adjust the water lever to match each load size
  • Always clean your dryer lint filter
  • Use an auto sensor function if you have one to avoid longer than usual drying

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Refrigerators & Freezers

They account for 9-15% of a household’s total energy usage. If you have a refrigerator that is 20 years old or more, you should consider an upgrade you will end of saving money in the long run. When looking for a new refrigerator, you want to consider these options for optimal energy efficiency:

  • Manual defrost over automatic
  • Freezer on top/bottom instead of side-by-side
  • Chest freezer over upright freezer
  • One larger over two smaller units

An extra refrigerator or freezer can cost you an additional $100 in energy costs per year. The fuller you keep your freezer,  the less work it has to do to keep items cold because the food inside stores cold air.

Lindus Construction is proud to now be RESNET certified and would like to help you in your quest for energy efficiency in your home. Give us a call at 1-800-873-1451 or check us out on the web at www.lindusconstruction.com  to set up a free no-obligation estimate. Make sure to tune into WCCO 830AM every Saturday from 9a-10a for the Home Improvement Show with Denny Long & Andy Lindus.

 

Increase Home Energy Efficiency with a RESNET Assessment

Posted by Andy Lindus on April 26, 2013 – 4:08 pm
Filed under Andy Lindus, LeafGuard, Lindus Construction, WCCO, WCCO Home Improvement Show, www.lindusconstruction.com
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RESNET stands for, Residential Energy Services Network, and is a nationally recognized certification and rating system in the United States for home energy efficiency. As a RESNET qualified EnergySmart Contractor, such as Lindus Construction, you can rest assured that you are working with a professional that has the knowledge from passing a RESNET administered exam as well as successfully completing approved energy efficiency training.

In today’s age, when we are all looking where to save a dollar or two, a home energy assessment could be exactly what you are looking for to improve your home’s energy efficiency and put more green back in your pockets. An energy audit will determine three things for you;

  • Where and how energy is being lost in your home
  • Which systems are operating efficiently
  • What kind of cost effective measures can be put into place to make your home more comfortable, affordable & more important more energy efficient

Did you know that a duct leaking air in your home wastes between 10-30% of heating & cooling energy and it may require as much as one ton of AC just to overcome that leak?

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Energy Weakness Areas in your Home That Will Be Checked

  • Porches
  • Roof Overhangs
  • Shafts for chimneys or pipes
  • Protruding or indented windows & doors
  • Crawlspaces & basements that are connected to the outdoors

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Blower Door Testing

Blower door testing is done by depressurizing your home, to amplify air leakage, so it can be measured and air leaks can be located. Blower door testing is one of the most practical ways to predict energy saving from air sealing methods. Some of the biggest sources of air leakage in your home are;

  • Penetration through top plates & gaps between sheetrock
  • Around electrical boxes
  • Recessed can lights
  • Open floor joists, chases & fireplaces
  • Wall cavity openings at the bottom of kneewalls
  • Open furrdowns or dropped ceilings
  • Attic access areas
  • Whole house fans

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Benefits of Having a Home Energy Assessment

  • Your energy bills will be lower increasing your energy saving
  • Consistent comfort throughout your home instead of feeling too warm or cold
  • Increased resale value for your home
  • Being informed of potential hidden problems enabling you to take action before a problem gets out of hand
  • Helping the environment from less greenhouse gases being generated from your home

Lindus Construction is proud to now be RESNET certified and would like to help you in your quest for energy efficiency in your home. Give us a call at 1-800-873-1451 or check us out on the web at www.lindusconstruction.com  to set up a free no-obligation estimate. Make sure to tune into WCCO 830AM every Saturday from 9a-10a for the Home Improvement Show with Denny Long & Andy Lindus.

 

 

 

Decking Components 101

Posted by Andy Lindus on April 19, 2013 – 1:17 pm
Filed under Andy Lindus, Decking, LeafGuard, Lindus Construction, WCCO, WCCO Home Improvement Show, www.lindusconstruction.com
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Whether you have chosen to build a deck yourself, or hire your local contractor, it is important to be up-to-date on your deck-building vocabulary to understand the roles of each of your decks components. Once you have mastered the terminology of planning of your next deck, from researching building codes, obtaining permits and setting up an estimate. Being able to clearly communicate your vision of your new deck design will make it easier for everyone involved and also ensure accuracy of what you want your final product to be.

The main components of a deck

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Ledger Board – if your deck will be attached to your home, the use of a ledger board will be necessary. This is equal in size to the joists that anchor the deck to the house and supports one end of the joists. It will be bolted to the side of the house and metal flashing will be installed behind and on top of it to keep water out. The ledger board will be a treated piece of lumber that is as straight as possible avoiding any warp.

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Beams – are large horizontal boards typically made of 4x, or doubled 2x lumber. They are supportive posts that hold the weight of your decking materials and people or items that will be placed on your deck. They will be bolted to the deck beam posts. These beams provide additional support above and beyond the nails and bolts of the deck, which can weaken over time resulting in improper structure support.

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Joists – think of them as the ribcage of your skeleton. They are used to build your deck frame. Their main purpose is to maintain the shape and strength of your deck. They are usually 2x lumber that is commonly placed perpendicular to your house and across your beams. They are installed parallel to each other for ease of construction and to distribute weight evenly for the integrity of the structure.

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Posts – in the past, 4×4 pressure treated posts for deck supports were commonly used, but now 6×6 pressure treated posts are ideal because they are much stronger, more stable and offer a larger surface area for supporting beams and joists.

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Deck Boards – are the main surface boards to your deck that you are able to walk across. The easiest way to install them is horizontally. If you choose to have more of a custom look, you can place your deck planks at a 45° angle across the joists. If you choose diagonally placed decking, it will increase your strength, but your waste of materials could also increase up to 15% and the labor is also more extensive then on horizontally placed deck boards.

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Fascia Board – this board is used to cover framing and decking with a wide 2x piece of lumber. To add a more distinctive look you can add a “picture-frame” edge, which adds some visual interest by creating a shadow line.

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Railings – a general rule of thumb is that a deck any higher than 18” above the ground should have a railing installed, and check your local building codes to see what their requirements are if you are thinking of going without a deck railing. There are so many different choices on the market today for your railings from metal balusters, composite, wood, glass, cable and branch deck railings. Your deck railing is where you can express your creativity for all to see so make sure to do your research on which style will compliment your deck the most.

Lindus Construction is an expert in the industry when it comes to planning & building your next deck. Give us a call at 1-800-873-1451 or check us out on the web at www.lindusconstruction.com to schedule a free no-obligation estimate. Tune into WCCO 830AM every Saturday from 9am-10am for our Home Improvement Show with Denny Long & Andy Lindus.

More than Just Shingles-The Components of an Asphalt Roof

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Posted by Andy Lindus on April 15, 2013 – 12:16 pm
Filed under Construction, GAF, GAF Roofing, Home Construction, Home Maintenance, Lindus Construction, Uncategorized, WCCO, WCCO Home Improvement Show
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When researching what you need to know before hiring a professional to assist in a home improvement project, you’ll oftentimes find that it’s recommended that you contact at least 3 companies to give you an estimate.  Price is one of the driving factors many homeowners consider when choosing whom to hire.  It can often be a cause for bewilderment when an estimate for a project such as a roof, varies widely between companies.  Unless you encounter storm damage, it’s unlikely that during your tenure as owner of a home, you’ll replace your roof more than twice.  So it’s no wonder that confusion is likely to arise when bids come in vastly different.  It’s important to take to heart that your roof is more than just shingles.  When installed correctly, your roof is an entire system that has several layers in order to maximize the system’s lifespan and protect your home from Mother Nature.

Here, at Lindus Construction, we have chosen to align ourselves with GAF which is North America’s largest manufacturer of residential and commercial asphalt roofing.  We appreciate the thoughtfulness behind their approach to roofing and the fact that they lead the industry with a 50 year non-prorated warranty on labor & materials. Here are the elements contained in a GAF asphalt roofing system:

Weather Watch Leak Barrier Ice & Water Shield: This is the first thing to be installed.  All leak barriers have a backside that is tacky which helps it adhere to the roof decking.  An advantage of the Weather Watch system is that it contains a special adhesive that allows for one-time repositioning, something not commonly found in other brands.  It aggressively adheres over time.  The advantage of having the adhesive take time to adhere is that if the underside is too sticky from the get-go, air pockets can occur during the application process.  Eventually these air pockets will be punctured which creates an opportunity for a leak.

Tiger Paw Roof Deck Protection: The purpose of this product is to provide a crucial additional layer of protection between your shingles and your roof deck.  It assists in deterring water, ice and snow from penetrating the underside of your shingles which can compromise your roof’s structure and your home’s interior.  Typical “felts” are less thick and are susceptible to tearing while workers are hammering on your roof.  This can cause tears which are prone to leaking.  Tiger Paw Roof Deck Protection will also assist in shingles being laid flat and uniform which will give your roof more aesthetic appeal.

Flashing: Flashing is metal that aids to protect your roof from water intrusion where your roof meets a wall in your home.  The intention of flashing is to defer the flow of water away from the home, rather than allowing your roofing and underlayment to absorb it which can cause water damage.  There are several different types of flashing including: kickout, valley step, etc.  Failure to utilize the correct amount, placed in the right areas can lead to leaking in your home, mold and a shortened lifespan of your roof.

Venting System: Without adequate ventilation, heat and moisture can build up in your attic which can cause your heating and cooling bills to increase.  Another side effect of inadequate ventilation is ice dams.  Ice dams usually occur after a heavy snowfall and several days of freezing temperatures. Warm air inside your home leaks into the attic and will warm the underside of the roof causing snow and ice on the roof to melt. The melted water will drain along the roof, under the snow, until it reaches the cold overhang. The overhang tends to be at the same temperature as the outdoors and the melted water will refreeze and form an ice dam and icicles. The ice dam can cause damage to the roof, which will result in water leaks to the inside. Frequently the result will be a water spot on the ceiling under the roof damage.  It’s also important to note that many roofing manufacturers will not warranty a roof that is not ventilated correctly.

Lindus Construction offers both asphalt and metal roofing options. In 2011, they were named the #1 Roofer in the United States by GAF, which is North America’s largest manufacturer of residential and commercial roofing. Call us now at 1-800-873-1451 or check us out on the web at www.lindusconstruction.com to schedule a free in-home estimate today. Tune into AM 830 WCCO on Saturdays from 9:00-10:00am hosted by Denny Long and Andy Lindus to ask questions regarding your home improvement projects.

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Flashing-A Roof Leak Preventative

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Posted by Andy Lindus on April 8, 2013 – 12:30 pm
Filed under GAF, GAF Roofing, Roofing, Roofing Installation, WCCO, WCCO Home Improvement Show
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When it comes to replacing your roof, homeowners spend a lot of time selecting shingle style and color.  There’s nothing wrong with this, especially when you consider that companies like GAF put out roofing systems that have non-prorated warranties that last 50 years.   But it’s also, if not equally more important, to understand the components being installed in conjunction with your shingles because they act as additional protectors for your home from issues such as water damage.  One of these protective components is called flashing.  Likely, flashing is not something that is top of mind when it comes to re-roofing your home, but failure to pay ample attention to it can dramatically shorten the lifespan of your roof and lead to water damage in your home.

What Is Flashing:  Flashing is metal that aids to protect your roof from water intrusion where a roof meets a wall.  The intention of flashing is to defer the flow of water away from the home, rather than allowing your roofing and underlayment to absorb it which can cause water damage.

Types of Flashing:

Kickout- Itsprimary purpose is to protect your home’s structure, windows & siding.  Additionally, it prevents water from going behind your siding where your roof meets a wall.  This type of flashing is installed over the edge of your roof.  Without it, the water that drains down your roof will come crashing down your roof and splash onto your windows & siding.  As this process repeats, mold, rot and structural damage can occur.

Valley- On a roof, a valley is an area where two adjoining sloped roof planes intersect on a roof creating a “V” shaped depression.  Valleys can be common sources of roof leaking because they catch water speeding down two roof planes; they disperse more water off a roof than does any individual roof plane.  Inadequate or improper installation of valley flashing can result in circumstances such as your roof caving in or your roof decking rotting.  Valleys come in two varieties.  They are: closed valley & open valley.  A closed valley is where the metal flashing is installed first and then the shingles are placed on top of it.  An open valley is where the flashing is laid first, followed by the shingles.  The tin is left exposed.  Additionally, three rows of ice and water shield are placed in this area.  Some homeowners feel that the closed valley is better because the metal is hidden from sight, therefore making the roof more aesthetically appealing.  An argument can be made for the open valley because the valleys of your roof handle more water than any other part of your roof.  Over time, this can cause the granules on your shingles to erode off.  Open valleys add an additional protectant so that this process is slowed.Some homeowners feel that the closed valley is better because the metal is hidden from sight, therefore making the roof more aesthetically appealing.  An argument can be made for the open valley because the valleys of your roof handle more water than any other part of your roof.  Over time, this can cause the granules on your shingles to erode off.  Open valleys add an additional protectant so that this process is slowed.

Step- Step flashing gets its name because it is comprised of several pieces of flashing that “step up” the roof with each progression of shingles and when the process is completed, the flashing looks like steps going up a wall.  Step flashing is important because it is a protectant against leaking where a roof & wall come together.  Improper step flashing can also lead to leaking where a chimney and wall meet.

Vent Pipe- It’s not uncommon to see a vent pipe sticking out from numerous places along your roofline.  Vent pipes can be for bathroom vents, sewer vents, hot water heaters, furnaces, etc.  Over time, due to nature’s elements, the seal between the pipe and roof begins to erode.  Installing vent pipe flashing defends against water damage to your home.

Chimney- Like its name states, chimney flashing is positioned around a chimney for the purpose of sealing it off against water.  One type of chimney flashing is called “chimney cricket”.  This piece of metal is installed on the back side of the chimney with the intention of diverting water away from it, as chimneys are an area that can easily leak.  If you notice stains on the walls that are in close proximity to your chimney, it’s quite likely that your chimney flashing has been comprised.  Prompt attention should be paid to this matter to avoid further damage, including mold growth.

Skylight-When a skylight is installed, a hole is cut in your roof to accommodate it.  Skylights must have flashing installed around them.  Without it, leaking can occur, damaging the interior of your home.  Many skylight companies offer flashing kits that are specifically designed for their product.

Drip Edge-Drip edge flashing can be installed on your roof’s gable edges and eaves. It will preserve the fascia board from windblown rain.  Additionally, it assists in bolstering roof shingles from sagging into your gutters or being broken should a tree branch fall on it.  Drip edge flashing also serves as a preventative for shingles being pulled off the roof during heavy winds.

Sidewall-This type of flashing should be installed where a section of roofing meets a vertical wall.  This will add an additional level of protection to prevent water from leaking behind your walls, 01siding, etc.  This can lead to rot, mold, etc. which can end up causing a homeowner thousands of dollars.

Lindus Construction offers the #1 selling roofing systems in North America, GAF Asphalt Roofing and was recognized in 2011 as the #1GAF roofing contractor in the country. Tune into AM 830 WCCO on Saturdays from 9:00-10:00am hosted by Denny Long and Andy Lindus to ask questions regarding your home improvement projects. Call us now at 1-800-873-1451 or check us out on the web at www.lindusconstruction.com to schedule a free in-home estimate.

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Why You Should Install Double Hung Windows!

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Posted by Andy Lindus on April 5, 2013 – 1:44 pm
Filed under Andy Lindus, Double Hung, LeafGuard, Lindus Construction, SeasonGuard, WCCO, WCCO Home Improvement Show, Windows, www.lindusconstruction.com
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You look through them every day and how often do you think about what impact your existing windows have on the beauty, value, and inside comfort of your home? Replacing your windows can help improve the look of your home and add long lasting value, plus save on energy bills. If you are ready for unmistakable window elegance with striking curb appeal, then SeasonGuard double hung windows are your answer. This high caliber window has a double contoured narrow-line with exclusive mortised locks and wood style coved trim around the glass that creates beauty and defines the craftsmanship you have desired in a window.

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Features & Benefits of SeasonGuard Double Hung Windows

  • The signature narrow line window design provides maximum glass view areas.
  • UltraCore® polyurethane window frame insulation provides added comfort and ultimate energy efficiency.
  • Lift out sliders, with dual brass rollers featuring a stainless steel axle for years of worry free performance.
  • In-swing sashes offer added efficiency being able to easily clean the window from inside your home.
  • Provides minimal maintenance and easy operation with tilt-in feature, contoured lift-rails and pre-tensioned, dual pulley Block & Tackle balance system.
  • Advanced, triple weather-stripping seals for top efficiency performance.
  • Polyurethane window frame insulation provides added comfort and the ultimate in energy efficiency.
  • Coved interior glazing bead for added elegance and traditional design lines.
  • Enjoy added peace of mind with recessed pick resistant locks and night latches for venting.
  • Extruded aluminum screen frame with heavy-duty aluminum corner reinforcements for years of worry free performance.

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How to operate your double hung windows

  • Unlock sash locks.
  • Raise lower sash at least 2-3 inches.
  • Release both tilt latches and pull top of sash toward you.
  • To tilt-in top sash ,first tilt-in lower sash. Then repeat steps 2 & 3 for top sash

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Federal Tax Credit

Did you know that if you have new energy efficient windows installed in your home this year, or even had them installed last year in 2012, that you are eligible for a Federal Credit up to $200. Check out the Energy Star website for more information. At http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=tax_credits.tx_index.

Lindus Construction is proud to provide Minnesota & Western Wisconsin with SeasonGuard Windows. .Call us now at 1-800-873-1451 or check us out on the web at www.lindusconstruction.com to schedule a free in-home estimate. Tune into AM 830 WCCO on Saturdays from 9:00-10:00am hosted by Denny Long and Andy Lindus to ask questions regarding your home improvement projects

Your Home’s Moisture Levels-When Wetter Isn’t Better

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Posted by Andy Lindus on April 2, 2013 – 2:30 pm
Filed under GAF, GAF Roofing, Lindus Construction, Roofing, Sweaty Windows, WCCO, WCCO Home Improvement Show, Window Condensation
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It’s no secret that moisture in your home can be a leading cause of health ailments such as asthma & upper respiratory conditions.  With this year’s winter dragging on and on and on, it’s a good idea toexamine your home for moisture related issues that may have presented themselves over the winter months.

Beyond the health issues that excessive moisture in your home can create, it’s also vital to address issues with moisture before they negatively affect your property. There are several places where moisture can present itself, all of which can end up directly affecting your wallet & your health.

Windows & Doors: Leaking often first occurs near the corners.  Telltale signs of impending water damage include paint that is discolored or peeling.  Windows that sweat can also be an indicator that moisture is occurring when it shouldn’t.  (For more on sweating windows: (http://www.lindusconstruction.com/blog/2012/11/why-are-my-windows-sweating/)

Roof: Any shingles that permit water to saturate your roof’s underlayment should be replaced.  Areas where this is more likely to occur are attic vents and chimneys.  Water that is visible through your ceiling may have already coated your attic floors and trusses which is why it’s so important to address any loose shingles as soon as you see them.  Another preventative measure that can be taken is investing in quality flashing.  Flashing is a slender metal bar found in roofing that acts as a water intrusion preventative in spaces where two different surfaces fit together.

Foundation: A cracked foundation is the perfect vessel to deliver water into your home.  As soon as cracks are identified and the damage has been evaluated, the cracks should be filled.

Clogged Gutters: The purpose of rain gutters is to divert rain water away from your home.  If they are clogged, the water will spill over which can result in a multitude of issues including: damp basements, destroyed landscaping, rotting wood (around windows) and icy sidewalks.  Invest in clog-free gutters such as LeafGuard and never experience this issue again.

Exhaust Fans & Venting: Exhaust fans are designed to redirect moisture from your home’s interior to the outdoors.  Be sure yours is in good working order or risk excessive moisture which cancause mold to grow, which will negatively affect your family’s health.

Sprinkler System: The purpose of your sprinkler system is to water your grass, not your foundation.  Make sure that your system’s misting pattern is directed away from your home so that water does not land near your foundation.

Lindus Construction offers free no-obligation estimates on home remodeling projects. Call us now at 1-800-873-1451 or check us out on the web at www.lindusconstruction.com to schedule a free in-home estimate. Tune into AM 830 WCCO on Saturdays from 9:00-10:00am hosted by Denny Long and Andy Lindus to ask questions regarding your home improvement projects.

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