5 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Professional Contractor

Are you considering hiring a professional contractor for your next home renovation or remodeling project? If so, it is important to ask the right questions before making your decision. Not all contracting companies are created equal, and it is important to find one that is reliable, experienced, and professional. In this blog post, we will discuss five questions that you should ask any potential contractors before hiring them.

Importance of Hiring the Right Contractor for Your Home Renovation Project

When it comes to home renovations, it is important to hire the right contractor. A good contractor can mean the difference between a successful renovation and a failed one. Remodeling the interior or exterior of your home is not a simple project, and it is important that you find the right company to handle the job.

The following are five questions that you should ask any potential contractor before hiring them:

Question #1: How Long Have You Been in Business?

You want to make sure that you hire a contractor with experience. A company that has been in business for a long time is more likely to be reliable and have the experience necessary to complete your project successfully.

Question #2: What Services Do You Offer?

Not all contracting companies offer the same services. Make sure that the company you are considering hiring offers the services that you need. A common mistake made by homeowners is hiring a contractor who is only able to complete a portion of their project, and they are forced to spend money on another service.

Question #3: Do You Have Liability Insurance?

Arguably, the most important question to ask a potential contractor is whether or not they have liability insurance. This will protect you in the event that something goes wrong during the course of the project. Liability insurance mainly protects against property damage and personal injury.

Question #4: Do You Have Any References?

A good contractor should be able to provide you with references from past clients. These references can give you an idea of what it is like to work with the contractor and whether or not they are likely to do a good job on your project.

Question #5: What is Your Estimated Cost for the Project?

Of course, you will also want to know how much the contractor charges for their services. Once you receive this estimate, make sure to get it down in writing to avoid any future misunderstandings. Another point to remember is that this quote does not have to mean you are locked in. Comparing prices to get the best deal is always a good idea.

Contact Three Sons Window & Door for Reliable Renovation Services in Waltham, MA

By asking these five questions, you can be sure that you are hiring the right contractor for your home renovation project. Be sure to do your research and ask around before making your final decision. If you are in need of contracting services in Waltham, MA, be sure to contact Three Sons Window & Door. We offer a wide array of services, including window installation, door installation, and more. Give us a call today at (781) 899-6353 to learn more about our services or visit our website for an instant online quote.

A Homeowner’s Guide to Different Styles of Roofs

Are you looking to replace your roof this Spring or Summer? There are many different types of roofs that homeowners can choose from. From asphalt shingles to metal roofs, there is a style for everyone. In this blog post, we will discuss the different styles of roofs and what benefits they offer homeowners.

Importance of Choosing the Right Roof for Your Home

The roof is one of the most important parts of your home. It protects you from the elements and keeps your family safe. That’s why it’s important to choose the right roof for your home. The type of roof you choose should match the style of your home and provide the protection you need.

Asphalt Shingle Roofs

Asphalt shingles are the most popular type of roofing material. They are made from a base of fiberglass or paper that is coated with asphalt and mineral granules. Asphalt shingles are available in a variety of colors and styles, which makes them a good choice for any home.

Benefits of Asphalt Shingles:

  • Asphalt shingles are inexpensive and easy to install.
  • They are available in a wide range of colors and styles.
  • Asphalt shingles are durable and last for 20-30 years.

Drawbacks of Asphalt Shingles:

  • Asphalt shingles are not as durable as other types of roofs.
  • They are not fire resistant.
  • Asphalt shingles can be damaged by high winds.

Metal Roofs

Metal roofs are made from steel, aluminum, or copper. They are available in a variety of colors and styles, including standing seam roofs, which have seams that run vertically up the roof. Metal roofs are durable and last for 50-60 years.

Benefits of Metal Roofs:

  • Metal roofs are durable and long lasting.
  • They are available in a variety of colors and styles.
  • Metal roofs are fire resistant.

Drawbacks of Metal Roofs:

  • Metal roofs are more expensive than asphalt shingles.
  • They can be damaged by high winds.
  • Metal roofs are loud when it rains.

Tile Roofs

Tile roofs are made from clay or concrete. Being such a versatile style, tile roofs can be made to look like wood, slate, or even metal. Depending on the color and siding pattern of your home, a tile roof can really add curb appeal. Tile roofs are durable and last for 50-60 years.

Benefits of Tile Roofs:

  • Tile roofs are durable and last for 50-60 years.
  • They are available in a wide range of colors and styles.
  • Tile roofs are fire resistant.

Drawbacks of Tile Roofs:

  • Tile roofs are more expensive than asphalt shingles.
  • They can be damaged by high winds.
  • Tile roofs are heavy and require a strong roof structure.

Slate Roofs

Slate roofs are known for their durability and beauty. Slate roofs can last for 100 years or more with proper maintenance. They are available in a variety of colors, including black, green, gray, and red.

Benefits of Slate Roofs:

  • Slate roofs are durable and long lasting.
  • High versatility
  • Slate roofs are resistant to fire, mold, and insects.

Drawbacks of Slate Roofs:

  • Slate roofs are more expensive than asphalt shingles.
  • In areas with extreme weather, slate roofs can be damaged by high winds or hail.
  • Slate roofs can be difficult to repair.

Contact Three Sons Window & Door for Professional Roofing Services in Waltham, MA

When choosing a roof for your home, it’s important to consider your budget, the style of your home, and the climate you live in. Asphalt shingles are a good choice for most homes because they are inexpensive and available in a variety of colors and styles. Metal roofs are a good choice for homes in areas with extreme weather because they are durable and fire resistant. Tile roofs are a good choice for homes with a Spanish or Mediterranean style. Slate roofs are a good choice for homes that want to add curb appeal.

If you’re looking for a roofing contractor in Waltham, MA, contact Three Sons Window & Door. We specialize in all types of roofs and can help you choose the right roof for your home. Give us a call today at (781) 899-6353 or visit our website for an instant online quote. We look forward to working with you!

4 Tell-Tale Signs It’s Time for Homeowners to Replace Their Windows

Windows are a key part of any home. Not only do they allow homeowners to see the world outside, but they also play an important role in insulation. Over time, windows can become damaged and inefficient, leading to energy loss and higher utility bills. If you’re wondering whether or not it’s time for you to replace your windows, here are four tell-tale signs that will let you know!

Importance of Proper Window Maintenance

One of the most important things a homeowner can do is keep their windows in good condition. This means regular cleaning and checking for any damage, such as cracks or chips. It’s also important to make sure that your windows are properly sealed to prevent drafts. By taking good care of your windows, you can extend their lifespan and avoid having to replace them as often.

Sign It’s Time to Replace Your Windows #1: Windows Are Older than 20 Years

If your windows are more than 20 years old, it’s probably time to start thinking about replacing them. Most windows will last for about 20-25 years before they need to be replaced, so if yours are approaching that age, it’s a good idea to start looking into your options.

Sign It’s Time to Replace Your Windows #2: You Feel a Draft

One of the most common signs that it’s time to replace your windows is feeling a draft. If you notice that your home feels colder near the windows, or if you can feel a breeze coming through when the windows are closed, it means that they’re no longer sealing properly. This can lead to energy loss and higher utility bills, so it’s important to take care of the problem as soon as possible.

Sign It’s Time to Replace Your Windows #3: Cracks or Chips in the Glass

Another sign that your windows need to be replaced is if you notice cracks or chips in the glass. While small cracks may not seem like a big deal, they can actually lead to bigger problems down the road. Cracks in the glass can let in drafts and moisture, which can cause damage to your home. If you notice any cracks or chips in your windows, it’s best to replace them as soon as possible.

Sign It’s Time to Replace Your Windows #4: Foggy or Cloudy Glass

If you notice that your windows are looking foggy or cloudy, it’s another sign that they need to be replaced. This is typically caused by condensation between the panes of glass, which means that the seal has been broken. Once the seal is broken, it can’t be repaired, so the only solution is to replace the window.

Contact Us for Window Installation & Replacement Services in Waltham, MA

If you notice any of these signs, it’s a good idea to start shopping for new windows. Replacing your windows can be a big investment, but it’s worth it in the long run. Not only will you save money on energy bills, but you’ll also improve the look of your home. For more information about installing new windows or replacing old windows, contact Three Sons Window & Door. Give us a call today at 781-899-6353 to learn more about our services, or fill out our online form to receive a free instant quote.

asphalt roof replacement

Benefits of Replacing Your Roof

A properly installed roof has a lifespan of 25-30 years lifespan, which means that most homeowners often don’t pass through the replacement process. Replacing an old roof is much more critical and vital because an updated, sturdy roof protects the home and its inhabitants. It acts as a barrier from extreme weather conditions and keeps moisture from entering your home to prevent molds and other potentially dangerous substances.

Admittedly, installing a new roof is expensive. However, it comes with many benefits and can also have as much as 100% ROI (return on investment).

The Benefits of Replacing Your Roof:

So what will be your gain if you invest in re-roofing now rather than putting it off? What are the benefits of installing a new roof?

 

  • New Roofs Offer a Good ROI:

 

One of the most significant advantages of a new roof is the return on investment that comes with it. If you want to sell your home, you’ll likely recoup most if not all of the roofing expenses. However, potential buyers will typically go for a home that does not need too much structural work, so installing a new roof enables you to sell your home at a much higher price and make your home more appealing to prospects. Most people are always attracted to a home that will not require a lot of money from them immediately after moving in. A new roof can also help you prove to potential buyers that you have maintained and protected your home from situations like water damage.

 

  • Greater Energy Savings:

 

If your roof is getting closer to the end of its lifespan, it probably won’t be doing a great job in keeping heat away from your home anymore. Besides, older shingles being resistant to places and gaps where they can leak in weren’t designed in such a way to repel heat from your home. They were more likely to absorb heat and transfer it into your home.

The newest shingles are designed to do more than keep your house dry in fact, there are lots of options available in the market presently designed to repel heat. Besides the newly-improved way today’s shingles are manufactured, their design and color can lower energy costs. The less heat entering the home, the less the HVAC system must work to keep the home at a relaxed, comfortable temperature.

 

  • Safety:

 

Your home’s roof isn’t just designed to repel water; it also protects your home from wind, debris, and falling trees. But as the roof ages, it becomes structurally unfit and unable to withstand all of the conditions it’s designed to defend. Even if you can’t notice the weakening from the outside, a roof that is getting closer to the end of its lifespan is in danger of collapsing when you most need it. Being proactive and replacing your old roof will go a long way towards keeping the home sound structurally and fit to withstand any conditions, mainly if you stay in an area prone to extreme weather.

 

  • Healthy Living:

 

One of the biggest concerns with aging roofs is that they cannot always repel water away from the house, allowing moisture and water to creep inside. It doesn’t matter if it’s a slow leak; moisture and water can build up over time, resulting in mold and mildew, which might cause potential health problems for family members. Even individuals who aren’t allergic to molds can experience problems with their nose, lungs, eyes and throat if there is a presence of mold in the home.

Contact Three Sons Today

If your roof is approaching the end of its lifespan, don’t wait until it begins to crumble or start leaking. The best way to protect your home and family is by being proactive about a roof replacement.

Three Sons provides roof replacements and installations using some roofing materials from some of the industry’s best roofing manufacturers, including CertainTeed, GAF, and Tamko. Contact us today to learn more.

deck in the snow

How To Prepare Your Deck for the Winter

With the arrival of cold weather, there will be a lot of moisture and wetness. These aren’t great for natural wood, particularly outdoors with many snow contacts. Your deck is one of these places. It’s essential to prepare your deck for cold weather, especially if you’re in an area with harsh weather conditions. This will prolong the lifespan of your deck and save you effort, time,  and money in the future.

Here are some tips on how to maintain and protect your deck during winter:

  • Thoroughly Clean the Deck:

In protection from the cold weather, you should thoroughly clean your deck surface of ice and snow. This goes beyond the regular everyday cleaning done in the summer months. To ensure your deck is in the best shape, ensure you employ deep cleansing, mainly if it’s a wood deck. By doing this, you get rid of dust, dirt, debris, and every other thing that might have accumulated overtime on the decks.

In addition, make sure to scrub the surface of your deck with a bleach-free wood cleaner and a hard-bristled brush to remove mold and mildew. Because moisture may be hard on wood, failing to do so can make it easier for your deck to decay and be wrecked during the colder months.

  • Inspect and Fix Deck:

After cleaning, inspect the deck surface to check for signs of splinters, water damage, holes that can harbor snow or rot. Establish a general inspection and make sure you are thorough after identifying all problems that may cause damage, get to work, and fix them immediately. The work done on the wood decks will be evident when the winter months pass, and it will honestly pay off in the future.

  • Seal and Finish your Deck:

Of all the different ways you can adequately prepare and protect your deck for winter, the one you should never overlook is sealing and finishing. Sealing is one of the important maintenance that should be done at least every 2-3 years to protect your deck lumber from snow, ice, and rain. An excellent finishing to protect your deck’s lumber from these elements is a water-resistant seal.

To ensure snow, hail, water, or sleet won’t cause damage to your deck, seal the wood up with a stain that penetrates the wood, ensuring the moisture doesn’t even gain access while allowing the wood to breathe.

  • Sweep off the Snow:

Maintain your deck’s ideal state by shoveling and sweeping everything off its surface to avoid any further damage. Do not let it accumulate, as it might make it more challenging to handle maintenance. Sweep off with a brush or shovel along the wood’s grain with a plastic shovel after a significant downpour. A plastic shovel is recommended to avoid accidental peeling or scratches of the deck’s finishing.

Contact Three Sons

It’s not always an easy task to improve and maintain the home, but in the end, it’s always worth it. Adhere to these tips to keep your deck in great shape all year round; it will be in top shape throughout the winter months and still look fabulous in the spring. 

If you are interested in having a new deck or porch installed in your home, please contact Three Sons. Our talented and experienced craftsmen offer complete deck/porch construction and installation using some of the industry’s best manufacturers for deck materials including Trex and Azek by TimberTech.