You may have noticed tattered or curled shingles on some homes. Perhaps the shingles on your roof are beginning to curl. This is often an inconvenient indicator for replacement. We’ll look at some common causes of shingle curling and things you can do to get the most out of your home’s dome.

Installation

Improper installation may cause shingles to curl. Either methodical or procedural errors during install can establish an initial issue, leading to bigger problems down the road.

For instance, you might save time by placing a new set of shingles over an existing layer. But if the original layer is damaged or already curling, chances are the new shingles will curl as well. Additionally, the newer shingles may not line up properly with the old. Without a proper seal, the new shingles may become loose and blow away in a heavy wind.

Flaws in the installation procedure can also cause shingle curling. Roofing materials are designed for specific requirements, including the type, length, and number of nails used per shingle; weather elements like temperature and humidity; shingle alignment; type of underlayment; and more. Failure to adhere to the manufacturer’s installation guidelines could mean headaches later on.

Ventilation

Inside your home, hot air – and moisture – rises to the attic. A well-ventilated space allows that moist air to circulate and disperse. If the air is trapped due to poor ventilation, heat and moisture can cause mold growth and lead to roof and shingle damage.

Deterioration

One of the most common reasons for shingle curling is also the most obvious: your roof is simply deteriorating from age. Asphalt shingles can last about 15 or 20 years. If you’ve noticed several spots of shingle curling, you may want to have your roof inspected and consider having it redone. Weakened shingles will allow water into your home, so replacing them now will help prevent further complications.

Prevention

Your home is an investment. To fully protect it and to get the most from your roofing, don’t take shortcuts.

Keep an eye on your shingles and clear any debris after a storm or heavy wind. Also, have an experienced company complete any roofing work to ensure it is done correctly and under warranty. Stay up to date on routine inspections and repairs, so that small issues don’t lead to big trouble.

For your roofing repair or replacement, trust the experts at Spotless & Seamless for fast, high quality, and personalized service. Whether you notice shingle curling or other issues, contact your Twin Cities roofing contractor today for a free inspection.

When summer weather turns too tropical or ominous, we retreat to the indoors for comfort and safety. Your home protects you from the elements, but how do you protect it? Here are a few tips for the general maintenance of your home’s exterior as well as some things to consider as you prepare for the elements of summer weather.

Roofing

As a homeowner, you should be aware of suggestions for regular roofing care. These include:

• Basic roof inspection. Pay attention to missing or curled shingles that could indicate damage or inefficiency. This is especially important if you notice more than one area with signs of deterioration.
• Check interior ceilings. Stains in the attic or on interior ceilings can reveal water leaking in from the roof.
• Remove loose debris. If you have trees close to your home, be sure to remove any twigs, branches, leaves, or seeds from your roofline. These items can clog gutters and eventually lead to roof or interior water damage.

If you notice significant or repeated damage after summer’s heavy rains, hail, or gusting winds, the roofing professionals at Spotless & Seamless can help. We can assess minor or major issues to determine your needs.

Siding

Depending on the type of siding, your summer projects may include minimal or excessive home maintenance.

Wood siding can warp or rot when exposed to moisture, and Minnesota summers are often wet and humid. Additionally, the hot sun causes paint to chip, peel, or fade. Wood siding should be treated every four to six years for optimal appeal and protection.

Some siding products are installed in overlapped sections, which creates visible splices. These, in addition to holes or cracks in wood siding, are entry points for moisture and pests. Extreme summer heat and sun can sometimes make vinyl susceptible to warping, chalking, or fading.

If your home needs new siding or if you’re drained by the upkeep for your home’s current siding, consider going maintenance free with United States Seamless® Steel Siding. Spotless & Seamless is an exclusive franchisee in the Twin Cities area, and our home exteriors experts can answer your questions prior to installation.

Your home’s roofing and siding are critical elements for its protection – and the protection of your family. Keep an eye on what’s happening outside to safeguard what’s inside. Stay on top of routine maintenance and small repairs to avoid costly fixes down the road. If you do run into issues with roofing or siding, contact Spotless & Seamless with questions or concerns or to schedule a free estimate.

Singing birds, warmer temps, and longer days means spring is here – finally! Now is a great time to get outside and take inventory of any toll winter may have taken on your home’s exterior. If you’re unsure what to look for, we’ve put together some ideas to include on your home’s spring maintenance agenda. Keep reading to determine which projects you need to tackle.

Roofing

Your home’s roof is the main source of protection from the elements. Check for any broken or missing shingles and any damage from ice dams. Also, check the condition of the flashing around vents and chimneys. Make appropriate accommodations for repair as soon as possible. Delaying fixes could lead to water damage inside your home from forthcoming rain and storms.

Gutters

If your roofline has a gutter system, you know how valuable it is for protecting your home from water damage. Gutters catch and direct rainwater away from the foundation but not if they’re clogged. Make sure gutters and downspouts are free from leaves and other debris to ensure they’ll function properly. Also, check for loose or leaky gutters and tighten, repair, or replace them right away.

If you’re tired of cleaning your gutter system, ask us about the LEAFAWAY® gutter protection system.

Windows and Doors

Check weather seals around your home’s windows and doors. If they’re cracked or missing, replace them. Doing so will help protect your home from water damage. You will also save on air conditioning costs and keep that cooler air inside where you want it.

Opening windows at night helps keep your house cool while reducing your energy bill. Make sure your windows are summer-ready by cleaning dirty screens or patching any small holes.

Paint

Exterior paint dresses up your home’s curb appeal and gives it a protective barrier from wind and rain. Check for any areas of cracked or chipping paint and do touch-ups as needed. If your home’s exterior needs substantial fixes, consider maintenance-free Seamless® steel siding. Get the look you want and the protection you need.

Make sure your home’s exterior survived winter and is ready for summer. Create an agenda for spring maintenance and take care of any small issues before they become big problems. The Twin Cities home exteriors professionals at Spotless & Seamless Exteriors can handle any repairs or upgrades. Contact us for a free estimate.

The roof of your home has protected you through another winter, but its job is continuous and always requires its best effort. Maybe you have noticed some aging, leaking, or other damage and are considering a replacement. Shingles and metal are two of the most common materials used to cover homes today. Learn more as we examine these suitable roofing options for a cold climate like Minnesota.

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are made up of a combination of fiberglass for reinforcement, asphalt to provide water resistance, and stone granules to add color and help reflect heat from the sun. They are one of the most widely used roofing materials in the country. Designed for substantial protection with little upkeep, asphalt shingles are popular for many reasons.

• Durability. Asphalt shingles shield your home from seasonal temperature shifts and all types of weather, including snow and heavy rain.
• Environmentally friendly. They can be recycled and converted into roadway pavement.
• Long lasting. A well-maintained shingled roof can last 20 to 30 years.
• Visually appealing. Shingles are available in a vast assortment of colors and styles, which allows you to enhance the aesthetic look of your home.
• Affordability. In comparison to other materials, shingles are universally less expensive. They are also easier to install, cutting down on time and labor costs.

Metal roofing

While initially more expensive than traditional options, metal roofing proves its worth over time with many advantages.

• Longer lifespan. A metal roof can last from 50 to 100 years with little-to-no maintenance
• Sturdy. This type of roofing is highly resistant to hail, wind damage, and even fire.
• Watertight. Metal roofing protects your home from snow and rain penetration thanks to the way it’s manufactured and assembled. Furthermore, metal roofs are not susceptible to snow or ice buildup, as any frozen precipitation slides right off.
• Year-round installation. Because they don’t require sealing or curing, metal roofs can be installed any time of year, even in cold climates.
• Stylish. With many styles, colors, and types from which to choose, metal roofing is fully customizable to any look.

Whether you choose traditional shingle or opt for metal, either of these roofing options for a cold climate will add value to and protect your home. The Twin Cities home exteriors professionals from Spotless & Seamless are ready to assist with all your roofing and siding needs. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.

Winter is here. Any Minnesota homeowner knows that when the snowfall increases, so does the risk of ice dams forming along the roofline. Left untreated, ice dams can lead to extensive and costly damage to your home’s roof and gutters, and in some cases, the interior of your house. Read on for information and tips on what you can do to prevent ice dams from ruining the exterior of your home.

What is an ice dam?

An ice dam is a thick ridge of ice that forms along the lower edge of rooflines in climates with cold temperatures and regular snowfall. As heat rises from the home, it melts the snow that has accumulated on the roof, sending water down to settle on the eaves and gutters. When the outside temperature drops, the water essentially refreezes, causing the ice ridge to continually expand and become heavier. This prevents subsequent melting snow from draining off the roof.

Effects

When the snow melts on the warmer part of the roof, the melted snow pools behind the ice and seeps back under roof shingles and, eventually, into the home. This can cause significant damage to walls, ceilings, and floors. In severe cases, ice dams can weigh several hundred pounds, which can tear off gutters, crack shingles, or compromise the overall structure of the roof. In addition, moisture that has entered the home can lead to the growth of dangerous mold and mildew, which adds excessive repairs and health risks.

Prevention

The best way to prevent ice dams from forming is to take action before the snow falls. Since heat loss through the attic is a major contributor to ice dam formation, proper insulation and ventilation are crucial. This creates an airtight seal, keeping the roof’s temperature near or at the outdoor temperature. However, once the snow does fall, be sure to remove it from the roof using a roof rake but take care not to damage the shingles in the process.

In emergency situations where water is flowing into the home, make a path or channel through the ice dam. This will redirect the water and allow it to flow off the roof. You can make a channel by pouring warm tap water where the ice has built up, then chiseling it to create the pathway. It’s most effective to work upward from the lower edge of the ice dam. However, the pathway is only temporary, so it’s best to implement a long-term solution to the problem.

Snow and ice are a way of life in Minnesota. By following these preventative measures, you can keep the damage and cost of ice dams at bay.

The Twin Cities home exteriors professionals from Spotless & Seamless are ready to assist with all your siding and roofing needs. Contact us today.

Most homeowners dread replacing their roof, but when the time comes for new shingles, there’s no avoiding the investment. We’ve put together some tips for when to consider a new roof and the key season for roof installation.

When

A typical asphalt roof lasts between 20 and 25 years. Metal roofs can last for 50 years or more. Once you make the decision to replace your roof or upgrade, you’ll need to schedule installation. Which season is best?

In the winter, roof sealant won’t adhere as easily, and some shingles can’t be installed in cold weather. Fall is often the busiest time for roofers, so consider scheduling a new roof installation between July and September to get ahead of the game. A roof protects a home from wind and rain, so the best time to rip off the shingles and lay new ones is in dry weather.

Why

When the need is immediate, the decision is easy. Most homeowners opt for a new roof after a storm that results in wind, hail, or structural damage. Other signs of aging may surface over time and warrant a replacement. You can replace a shingle here and there, but it may be wiser to install a whole new roof depending on its age and the extent of wear. Look out for the following red flags:

• Cupped or clawed shingles (when the edges and tabs are curled upward or downward).
• Cracks, tears, and bald spots where granules have fallen off the shingles.
• Beams of light coming through the boards in the attic.
• Moisture in the insulation.
• Stains and streaks on the ceiling.
• Drooping or sagging, which could be signs of rotten boards and trapped moisture.
• Roofing granules on the ground or accumulating near the downspout.

How

Look to Spotless & Seamless, your Twin Cities roofing contractor, the next time you need a replacement. Whether you prefer asphalt shingles or durable metal roofing, we’ve got you covered. We also provide seamless siding, windows and doors, and clog-free gutters.

If you’re not sure when to replace your roof, count on our professional team for an evaluation and an estimate. We’re a Maple Grove roofing contractor offering special financing, a referral program, and roofing repair in addition to installation. For metal roofing that Minneapolis and St. Paul homeowners trust to protect their homes, contact Spotless & Seamless Exteriors.

With winter over, it’s time to talk about spring weather preparedness. Storms bring high winds, heavy rains, hail, and other hazardous conditions that could damage your property. We’ve put together a rundown on how to prevent, detect, and repair storm damage to your home.

How protected is your home?

Before the storms roll in, it’s important to assess how protected your home is from the elements. A worn or damaged roof, poor siding, or improperly installed rain carrying system could cause leaks, flooding, mold growth, and structural damage even in mild weather. Severe winds, rain, and hail will put more stress on your home’s exterior.  

How do you detect storm damage?

Some of the most obvious signs of storm damage are fallen trees, sagging gutters, broken windows, shingle debris, and flooded basements. But there are many other subtle signs you should look out for when surveying your basement, ceilings, walls, windows, doors, roof, and siding after a storm:

• Expanding wood, dripping water, or discoloration on the ceiling and walls.
• A musty odor throughout your home.
• Cracked, dented, or missing shingles, vents, or flashing on the roof.
• Dark spots from where roofing granules have been knocked away from asphalt shingles.
• Roofing granules collecting in gutters or discharged from downspouts.
• Dented, cracked, missing, or discolored siding.
• Cracked wood finishes or stripped paint.
• Broken window or door frames, holes and tears in screens, or dents on windowsills and windowpanes.

Following a storm, safety is top priority. Avoid climbing on your roof and be careful around broken windows. If your home has been flooded, contact a water removal company immediately. A professional can examine the extent of damage to your property so you know how much repairs will cost and if you should file an insurance claim.

Who should I contact for storm damage repair?

When a large storm strikes your area, you may have contractors coming to your door offering repair or replacement services. Always check that they are reputable. Ask for their license, proof of insurance, certifications, business address, and Better Business Bureau listing or Angie’s list ratings. Let Spotless & Seamless be your first call for storm damage repair.

Spotless & Seamless Exteriors provides asphalt and metal roofing installation and repair to homeowners throughout Minnesota. As your local steel siding contractor, we also offer United States Seamless® installation. Seamless steel siding is custom-fit to your home on-site, ensuring a flawless, seamless finish. One of the most durable and energy efficient siding materials in the industry, seamless steel will protect your home from the harshest elements.

SSE offers clog-free gutters that keep leaves and twigs out of your rain carrying system so your home can withstand torrential downpours. Rely on our revolutionary Superspout™ to carry rainwater away from your home and protect your foundation from flooding. As a Minneapolis/St. Paul window replacement contractor, we provide a variety of quality windows and doors for homeowners throughout the Twin Cities who have sustained storm damage or are just looking to upgrade.

We’ll take care of the mess and make sure your home is properly repaired with quality materials. Contact Spotless & Seamless Exteriors to learn more and request an estimate.

Water is one of the most powerful forces on earth and can cause major damage to your home. We’ve outlined some ways to detect and prevent water damage from roof leaks and flooding.

The Risks

Water damage can cause black mold growth, ruin your insulation, rot wooden framing, and compromise your home’s foundation, all of which can cost thousands in repairs and jeopardize your family’s safety. When water seeps into your home, it can discolor and stain your ceiling, floors, or walls. If you notice these or other signs of water intrusion, you should inspect your home to determine the cause. 

What causes flooding?

Your rain-carrying system is designed to properly channel runoff water away from the foundation of your home to prevent flooding. Downspouts that are installed too close to your house or that drain toward the basement wall can cause water to pool and erode the soil. In the winter, snow and ice can clog gutters so that they overflow and allow runoff to cascade down your home’s siding and puddle near the foundation. If you have a cracked foundation or poor sealing, low-lying areas in your home like basements or cellars can flood.

What causes roof leaks?

Roof leaks are often caused by damaged or worn roofing materials. The sun can melt the tar that seals shingles together, and shingles may become brittle and crack or rip off entirely from high winds. Rusted flashing, the strip of metal designed to seal joints where the roof meets a wall or chimney, may expose your home to moisture. Damaged boots around vent pipes and corroded mortar on brick chimneys are another culprit. Heavy, clogged gutters may damage the eaves of your roof, causing your soffit and fascia boards to rot. Ice dams allow water to pool on the roof and potentially seep into your home.

How can you prevent roof leaks and flooding?

It’s better to prevent roof leaks and flooding than deal with the aftermath of water damage. Spotless & Seamless Exteriors offers clog-free gutters with a Superspout™ that provides 50 percent more drainage than conventional downspouts. This revolutionary rain-carrying system protects your home from ice dams and flooding.

As a Twin Cities roofing contractor, we offer asphalt and metal roofing, so you can replace your old, worn-out roof and protect your home this season. We also provide routine roofing inspection and repair services so you can maintain your roof and avoid costly damage to your home.

We are a top Minnesota steel siding contractor, offering siding replacement and repair to residents throughout the Minneapolis metro. Steel siding is installed in custom-fit boards that eliminate seams. This airtight seal protects your home from moisture intrusion.

Contact us for more home exterior solutions.

When a hail storm slams your neighborhood, the damage to your roof can vary greatly. Knowing how to identify damage can save you hassle and money down the line.

Damage Variables

Wind speed and direction can change the severity and location of hail impacts. Larger hail creates more damage and most hailstones are not perfectly round, making different impacts to the surface. Trees, buildings, or other neighboring structures act as natural barriers from hail. They can cause more damage in dangerous storms, such as when a tree falls on your house.

Materials absorb hail differently. Hail can dent asphalt roofing, gutters, and aluminum siding.  If you are hit with softball sized hail, the density can be strong enough to puncture a roof. Vinyl or wood shakes can crack, while metal roofing is tough and highly resistant to hail damage. Contact the Minneapolis roofing specialists at Spotless & Seamless Exteriors to learn more about the different kinds of roofing materials.

Age or Hail Damage?

Wear and tear can be mistaken as hail damage. Exposure to sun and weather over time can make asphalt shingles brittle and aged in appearance. Blistering, cracking, flaking, and algae are also signs of age. However, hail damage can be unmistakable if there are black, shiny, or soft spots on asphalt shingles. Wood shingles will have random damage with cracks that are orange/brown in color, sharp, and have no deterioration. Lastly, checking if your vents, gutters, siding, or air conditioner have dents too can signify claimable damage.

If you believe that your house has been damaged by hail, contact Spotless & Seamless Exteriors, Twin Cities roofing contractor, for a free roof inspection. You can make a claim with your insurance rep or agent as soon as you know there is hail damage. Any neglected damage from earlier storms or aging is noticeable and not covered by insurance. Over time, damaged shingles can deteriorate from the sun and rain. Shingle debris can get caught in your gutters and exposed areas are susceptible to leaks, wind damage, and mold.

It’s a large investment to replace or repair a roof but protecting the value of your home is important.  If your roof shows signs of serious aging or hail damage, we can help.

You can count on our experts at Spotless & Seamless Exteriors to provide fast, high quality, and personalized service to complete your Minnesota roofing repair on time.

Featuring responsive design and interactive content, Spotless & Seamless Exteriors, Inc.’s brand new website layout is seamless on smartphones, tablets, laptops and desktops of any screen size for a customized user experience.

Be sure to also check out our official houzz, YouTube, GooglePlus and Facebook pages to see customer reviews and photos and videos from our latest projects. Follow us on our blog and your favorite platform for exciting updates on Spotless & Seamless Exteriors!

While we have overhauled our online presence, Spotless & Seamless Exteriors still offers the same high-quality upgrades for your home. We promise no more seams in your siding, no more leaves in your gutters, no more leaks in your roof and no more outrageous energy bills. Our home exterior services include:

• Seamless Siding
• Roofing
• Windows & Doors
• Gutters
• Remodeling

As a locally-owned and operated company based in Osseo, MN, Spotless & Seamless Exteriors can provide you with recommendations on design and color as well as product selections that fit your unique needs and lifestyle–all within your budget! From consultation through completion and cleanup, our quality workmanship and careful attention to detail makes all the difference.