Tag Archives: Minnesota

The Effects of Hail on Your Home

Posted by Andy Lindus on May 22, 2013 – 5:38 pm
Filed under Construction, GAF, GAF Roofing, Midwest LeafGuard, Storm Damage, Uncategorized
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A hail storm can have devastating effects on your home.  Each year, the effects of hail damage cost Americans around $1 billion dollars.  Throughout your home’s exterior, hail damage manifests itself in different ways.  Here’s what to look for:

Roofing-When hail hits your roof; it can cause the granules on your shingles to loosen.  One of the main purposes of the granules is to safeguard your roof from the sun & precipitation.  Granule loss will accelerate the deterioration of your roof as it is no longer protected from nature’s elements.  In some cases, this can mean a leaky roof.  A quick way to verify whether your shingles have been damaged is to look at your gutter’s downspouts. If you notice a significant amount of roofing granules collecting, it’s a sign that your roof may have been damaged in a hailstorm.  Your roof vents and flashing will often show indentations if hail has occurred.  Even without seeing this, it is a good idea to work with a reputable professional to evaluate whether your roof has been compromised.  Some effects of hail are not immediately evident; a roof can be weakened by hail, but not fail for a year or two.  Hail can void your roofing manufacturer’s warranty, another reason it’s important to have your roof evaluated if you suspect hail damage.

Siding- Because siding can be fabricated from different materials, the way that hail damages it can vary.  Vinyl siding holds up quite well to denting, however, if hit hard enough its pliability may be compromised and breaks, cracks or holes can occur.  Wood and metal siding can dent from hail; the amount is determined by the size of the hail, angle that it falls at and how fast it is traveling when it makes contact.  The best time to inspect your siding for damage is early in the morning or at dusk.  This will make indentations easier to see.  The winds that often occur during hailstorms can also cause your siding to pull away from your home.

Windows- Hail storms can damage windows.  Signs that your windows have been affected by hail are: a damaged window frame, broken glass, holes and cracks.  Denting of your window sashes, wraps and frames is not always easily detectable.  A trick is to run your hand along these areas to see if you feel any indentations.  However, when in doubt, consult a professional.

Gutters- Gutters are placed close to your roof line and are susceptible to damage.  If you find that you have hail damage on your roof, it’s likely that your gutters were damaged as well, though it may be tricky for you to tell standing on the ground.  Be sure to have them evaluated by a professional who will be able to detect indentations caused by the storm.

We would be happy to come in and help you restore your home to its natural beauty. 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. 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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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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Fast Facts-What You Need to Know Before You Start a Kitchen Remodel

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Posted by Andy Lindus on May 3, 2013 – 1:28 pm
Filed under Construction, Kitchen Remodeling, Lighting, Lindus Construction, Remodeling, Skylight, www.lindusconstruction.com
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In the construction industry, it’s often common to find calculations that estimate how much money you will recoup from a home improvement project.  One of the projects that are always towards the top of the list is a kitchen remodel.  Depending on the market and the scale of the project, a kitchen remodel can provide as much as an 87% return on investment.  That’s why it’s crucial that the undertaking is executed properly the first time.  Below is a list of ways to make this project as pain-free and as successful as possible.

Take Your Time-Take some time to page through magazines and websites such as Houzz.com to see what you like in terms of style and layout.  While it can be tempting to jump the gun and get the project going in order to meet a deadline, like a graduation party or wedding shower, you can end up incurring more costs if you decide mid-way through the project that you want to remove a wall, relocate a sink, etc.  Imagine your disappointment if you hurry up and select a countertop only to learn later that it requires annual re-sealing, something that would have made you make another choice if you had known.

Finding the Right People for the Job- Think of a general contractor as the coach of a team. Their job is to gather bids, work with subcontractors and make sure that the work is done correctly, within your budget and on schedule. A general contractor has connections within the industry and has solid relationships with subcontractors (cabinet makers, countertop showrooms, etc.). These subcontractors want to perform exceptional work for general contractors because they know that this is how they will stay in business. Subcontractors are less likely to stay on time and within budget for someone they know they have little chance of ever working with again, such as the homeowner. While on the front end, hiring a general contractor can seem like an added expense, working with a skilled professional will often keep you on schedule and within budget.

Having a Budget with a Buffer- It’s important to establish a budget when renovating a kitchen. The budget should include a slush fund that takes into consideration unforeseen circumstances and overages because even with the best intentioned bid, incidentals will likely still come up.

Your Kitchen’s Footprint-Clearly, there are times when your kitchen’s footprint needs to be changed to maximize space.  However, if it’s possible, stick with same footprint which will allow you to forego costs incurred from demolition & reconstruction. Another perk?  Less dust and debris in your home.

Appliances-If your greatest culinary accomplishment in the last 5 years was not burning a grilled cheese sandwich, you may want to forego a vaulted oven in favor of something more practical and splurge elsewhere.

Quality Materials-Educate yourself on the materials you’re looking into using.  It may be tempting to go with a cheaper floor or countertop but if the product’s life expectancy is lower than something of better quality, you may end up costing yourself more in the long-run when you’re purchasing a replacement sooner than later and paying for it to be installed.

Needs vs. Wants- Obviously, every kitchen needs things like a sink or flooring.  However, a cutting edge, built in coffee system should fall into the “want” category.  Make sure you’ve got the necessities covered before you start committing to luxury accessories.

Ample Space-When planning your kitchen, be sure to include enough space so the doors on your appliances, such as refrigerator and oven, can be open and still have enough space to walk around them. so that doors can be space in front of your refrigerator and oven so that you can still walk in front of them even when they are opened.  Don’t allow corners to become a wasted space; consider adding a Lazy Susan.  Kitchen islands can be a great place to set up food buffets and store countertop appliances.  However, if space is already tight, you may want to go without since having one will only make your kitchen feel and look smaller.

Lighting-This is one area that often gets overlooked.  Oftentimes, homeowners wrongfully assume that a single fixture mounted in the center of the room is going to provide adequate lighting for the entire space.  This can cause a glare that overpowers the room.  Other options include track lighting, skylights and recessed lighting.

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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5 Signs it’s Time for a Kitchen Overhaul

Posted by Andy Lindus on April 22, 2013 – 1:13 pm
Filed under Construction, Home Construction, Kitchen Remodeling, Lindus Construction, Midwest LeafGuard, Remodeling, www.lindusconstruction.com
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When you want something bad enough, it’s hard for you to be an unbiased judge as to whether or not your want is, in fact, a need.  Here are a few indicators that your kitchen is due for a complete overhaul, not just a fresh coat of paint or granite countertop.

Your Layout is Unnatural- In every kitchen you’ll find a stove, sink and refrigerator.  While designers often have their own opinions on what makes a room aesthetically appealing, most all agree on the kitchen triangle concept.  This approach became widely embraced in the 1940s when kitchens were often tight spaces, overrun by large appliances.  To make the most of a small space, stoves, refrigerators, and sinks were set up in a triangular fashion.  While this is not the only way to set up a kitchen, bear in mind that breathing room between the primary work spaces makes food preparation less of a hassle by keeping traffic in your work spaces to a minimum.  If you’re only stocking the necessities in terms of food, tableware and small kitchen appliances, and you still find yourself using your countertops as a pantry after buying a week’s worth of groceries, chances are you don’t have enough storage and the space you do have is not being put to good use.

Your Home is Going to Market-It’s no secret that a kitchen remodel is one of the home investments that reaps the highest return.  It’s also common knowledge to those buying a home that a kitchen is one of the most expensive areas to renovate.  If your current kitchen looks like something seen on The Brady Bunch, utilize a kitchen remodel to get top dollar for your property.  FYI-a remodel doesn’t have to include over the top features.  Focus on matching appliances, adequate storage space and neutral patterns on countertops and backsplashes.

Appliances made before the World Wide Web was Created-We’ll give you props if you’ve got appliances from the early 1990s that still run.  However, we’re still going to argue that it’s time for them to be upgraded.  The National Association of Home Builders gives a life expectancy guideline for major appliances as follows: dishwasher and microwave, 9 years; garbage disposal, 12 years; refrigerator, 13 years; range, 13-15 years.  In addition to technology and aesthetic advancements, today’s appliances are the most energy efficient they’ve ever been.

You Discourage Guests from Gathering in the Kitchen- Having this happen should be a red flag that you no longer, or may have never considered, the kitchen to be the heart of your home.  Your kitchen should be a point of pride and if that’s not the case, it’s time to start evaluating what features can be added or modified to change your feelings.  Another similar sign it’s time for a change is when you, yourself, no longer wish to spend time preparing or eating in your kitchen.

To Repair Damage- If your kitchen has been damaged by water, fire, etc., it’s well worth looking into redoing the whole room, rather than just minor repairs to get by.  Ignoring or failing to evaluate the full extent of water damage, can lead to the growth of mold which leads to even bigger issues.  If water damage has occurred, at the very least, speak with a professional who can tell you for certain whether or not there are signs of mold growth; home tests are not 100% accurate.

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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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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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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LP SmartSide – Pioneers in Sustainable Siding For Your Home!

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Posted by Andy Lindus on March 29, 2013 – 1:58 pm
Filed under Andy Lindus, LeafGuard, Lindus Construction, LP, LP SmartSide, WCCO, WCCO Home Improvement Show, www.lindusconstruction.com
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Picking the right siding for your home is a delicate balancing act between good looks, durability, maintenance & affordability. LP SmartSide siding is a resilient mix of wood strands & fibers, zinc borate, and superior exterior-grade resins that are proven to withstand extreme heat, cold, humidity & rainfall.

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LP SmartSide works and cuts just like traditional wood, taking nails and screw with ease for easy installation. It does not require special safety training and special gear to protect against airborne silica, like fiber cement. Their warranty is unmatched with their 5/50-year limited warranty providing a 5-year 100% labor and replacement feature and a 5/50-year prorated limited warranty on the product.

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How LP SmartSide is manufactured

LP SmartSide is manufactured in Tomahawk, WI. All the wood that is used at their facility is SFI® (sustainable Forestry Initiative) certified, which is the Sustainable Forestry Initiative. SFI® certification helps insure that the wood being used only comes from well-managed forests. By having LP SmartSide installed on your home, you are helping builders reduce waste on the jobsite. This is because without knots, fewer siding needs to be discarded.  Fewer knots also mean that the siding can be produced in longer lengths, which cuts back on the number of pieces used.  Because the siding is so durable, you may even qualify for certification points in current leading green building programs now available. Here is the manufacturing process of LP SmartSide:

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  • When the logs arrive on site, they go through a conditioning process so it comes in at the right moisture content for the bark to be removed off the log.
  • They reuse the bark and any other byproducts of the log for heating their facility so nothing is wasted.
  • After the bark is removed, the log itself is turned into precisely shaped strands of wood that are now ready to be dried.
  • The size of the wood strands is very precise; that is what gives their product such strength & durability, allowing it to lay flat and true to your home.
  • After the strands are cut, they still contain 50% moisture content and the product is tumbled in large steel drums that force the moisture out of the product to between 5%-10%.
  • Once the strands of wood are dried they go through the SmartGuard process, which is the blending of the strands with an exterior rated binder, which acts as industrial strength glue.
  • In addition to the SmartGuard process, they add a wood preservative treatment that is environmentally safe and EPA registered. The American Wood Preservatives Association recognizes it because it’s proven effective against termites, wood decay and rot. That is why LP SmartSide has an industry leading 50-year warranty.
  • After the SmartGuard and wood preservative process, the strands of the product have been mixed thoroughly together and are formed into a woven mat that is overlaid with a resin impregnated paper.
  • It then travels into a heated press, and under intense heated pressure, the mat that is 6-8 inches thick is compacted down to as small as 3/8 inch.
  • The realistic wood grain finish is pressed into the product from plates during the heated pressure process allowing for the look of wood without having to deal the natural defects of it.
  • The wood grain finish is very realistic and doesn’t have the natural defects of natural wood. When the product is being pressed under the heat and pressure, there are plates that push the wood grain texture into the product.
  • Once pressed, it comes out in a sheet that is about 16 feet long that is cut down into 4’x16’ sheet products.
  • They further cut these sheets down into the specific sizing that is needed.

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Lindus Construction is proud to be a Platinum member of LP’s Build Smart Preferred Remodeler Program. We have gone through extensive training with LP through jobsite audits and LP University to make sure that every job is done to the specifications that the manufacturer entails. We also offer a visual remodeler program that allows you to view LP® SmartSide® on your current home. LP® SmartSide® comes in 100 different profiles so the possibilities are endless!!

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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.

 

Replacing Your Windows & Siding Simultaneously

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Posted by Andy Lindus on March 25, 2013 – 12:31 pm
Filed under Awning, Bay, Bow, Casement, CenterLock Siding, Construction, Double Hung, Garden, James Hardie Fiber Cement Siding, SeasonGuard Siding, Siding, Sliding, Sweaty Windows, Vinyl Windows, Window Condensation, Windows, Wood Siding, Wood Windows, www.lindusconstruction.com
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Though the weather may not reflect it, the calendar is saying that spring has sprung!  Earlier this month, we took an entire day to get all of our employees in the same room at same time.  (With 100+of us, this can feel like quite a feat!)  “Aha moments” are always abundant when we get everyone in the same room (though a JibJab video and caffeine can be of great assistance in the morning!)  One of our installers brought up the fact that there are several ways a homeowner benefits from replacing their windows and siding at the same time.  While this concept makes perfect sense in our industry, it’s not something a homeowner may even be aware of as they plan home improvement projects. 

Why it’s a Good Idea

Replacing your siding and windows in tandem allows you to achieve the best possible scenario.  It oftentimes saves you money because caulking and sealing window openings & trim and siding joints will only need to happen once.  This saves you in labor costs by not having this work performed twice.  Because these two projects are so often done concurrently, it’s fairly easy to find a contractor that can perform both tasks which also saves you by not having to hire two separate companies.  Another way you save by replacing siding and windows synchronically is in energy costs.

Protecting Your Home if the Work Must Be Performed Separately

If you’ve already had the siding replaced and are now noticing that your windows aren’t as energy efficient as they once were, there are still ways to protect your siding during the removal of the old windows.  One method is to install window trim around current windows when the new siding is installed.  This prevents the new siding from protruding the nailing fins.  This means that when the old windows are removed only the window trims will need to be removed, leaving the siding undisturbed.  Installing window trims with screws, rather than nails, can also minimize damage during the window removal process.

Tell-tale signs it’s time to replace your windows:

  • You hear your windows rattling when it is windy outside
  • You notice your windows develop an icy or frosty glaze inside the window pane
  • You feel your home becomes drafty with cold air in the winter months and warm air in the summer months
  • You see excessive condensation on your windows or they become fogged
  • You have to prop your windows open because they will not stay open on their own

 

Tell-tale signs it’s time to replace your siding:

  • You are adding on to your home
  • Your current siding looks weathered and constantly needs new paint
  • Existing siding has extensive insect damage or dry rot
  • Current siding has stains or has weathered unevenly
  • Existing siding shows signs of buckling or decay.

 

Looking for a professional to assist you with new windows & siding?   Let the professionals at Lindus Construction help you. 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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Countertops Worth Considering

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Posted by Andy Lindus on March 13, 2013 – 2:57 pm
Filed under Copper, Countertops, Glass, Lava Stone, Limestone, Marble, Solid Surface Synthetics, Travertine
Tagged as , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Shopping for kitchen countertops can seem like a daunting task.  There are lots of things to consider including materials, colors, textures, durability, lifespan and maintenance.  Last April, we reviewed some common countertop materials (check out the blog by clicking: http://www.lindusconstruction.com/blog/2012/04/do-your-countertops-need-a-facelift/).  Because there are so many materials you can use, we’ve decided to present some more countertop options for you to review so that you can determine what’s best for your kitchen.

MARBLE

What It Is:  Marble is a rare stone that can be polished to make countertops.  Because it naturally occurs in nature, no two countertops are the same.  

Consider This: Marble is prone to scratches and staining.  It can be repaired by a professional.  Marble’s look is timeless.  Marble is heat resistant, but it can soak up oils and odors.

Price Range: $$-$$$

GLASS

Consider This: A benefit of glass countertops is that they are easy to clean.  Care should be taken to ensure that they are not scratched.  Glass can also crack and if it does, it cannot be repaired.  A perk of glass countertops is that they are stain proof.  Glass is available in multiple colors and patterns and can be shaped to fit the home.

Price Range: $$$

LIMESTONE

What It Is: Limestone occurs in nature when the remains of tiny shells and organisms are laid to rest in a sea bed where they eventually compress and are formed into a rock.

Consider This: Acidic foods spilled on a limestone counter can cause the color to dull and fade.  Limestone counters require annual sealing.  Limestone countertops can come in vibrant shades that may not be found in other natural materials.  They are resistant to humidity.

Price Range: $$

 

COPPER

Consider This: Copper countertops are long-lasting but are unable to be sealed to prevent tarnishing.  They will show fingerprints.  As it ages, copper countertops will grow a reddish brown patina.  They are prone to denting and scratching.  Different textures are available.

Price Range: $$$

SOLID SURFACE SYNTHETICS

What It Is: Solid surface synthetics are comprised of manufactured materials, most commonly acrylic.

Consider This: These countertops are manmade and are not recyclable.  They are prone to scratching and denting, but these damages can often be fixed by a professional.  They only need minimal maintenance.  They are malleable and can be molded to almost any requirement.

Price Range: $-$$

LAVA STONE

What It Is: Lava stone is one of the newer materials available for countertops.  It is hand extracted from open air mines.

Consider This: The lifespan of this material is uncertain because it’s a newer product.  It’s currently manufactured in France and shipping costs contribute significantly to its price.  It holds up well against staining and scratching.  Because this material is mined, each countertop is unique.  It comes in a multitude of colors.

Price Range: $$$

TRAVERTINE

What It Is: Travertine is a stone that takes years to form from minerals under intense pressure and heat.  It’s made when the minerals dissolved under water leave behind sediments on the outer parts of beaches.

Consider This: Because travertine occurs naturally, it comes in lots of different colors.  Travertine reflects light which can make your kitchen appear larger.  Spilling acidic liquids on them, that are not immediately cleaned up, can result in etching. Because they absorb liquids, it’s important to disinfect these counters regularly to slow bacteria growth.  It needs to be resealed every couple of years.

Price Range: $-$$

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.