Learning Center Archives - Harris Exteriors

Biggest Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring a Home Improvement Contractor

Concerned about getting the right contractor for your home? You have a lot of company. The Consumer Federation of America discovered that “home improvement contractors and repairmen jumped to the #2 complaint category in their 2022 complaint survey.” The reasons were clear: “Many consumers complained of shoddy and incomplete home repair work performed by individuals without the proper licensure or expertise.”

On top of all that, people faced difficulties getting the mistakes repaired or having their money returned.

Instead of succumbing to similar pitfalls, approach your next project with a sense of curiosity about the details and process involved in any repairs and replacements. Asking questions and visiting showrooms can go a long way in protecting yourself from unfortunate experiences with contractors.

1. Lack of a Contract That Includes Work Schedules and Other Key Information

It can be tempting to hire someone off the books who seems to know their stuff. Maybe they do! However, the more money you’re spending, the bigger a risk you’re taking by partnering with someone without a real contract in place. Going online to check out examples of contracts can help folks become more familiar with the lingo in construction contracts. This might include:

Scope of work
Multiple deadlines
Payment terms, including due dates and late payment fees
Insurance information
Change order stipulations

Just because a contract has been drawn up doesn’t mean you have to sign it. If anything seems fishy or you don’t understand something, clarify those things and only sign on once you’re fully comfortable with the agreement.

2. Neglecting to Discuss the Details, Including Repair & Replacement Costs

When it comes to home projects, the devil is always in the details. Ask for itemized quotes when possible, and be sure you know what you’re paying for and how much of that is subject to change. Some consumers are surprised at the lack of cost information in the final invoice, even if it comes with a fair amount of description. This mistake can be avoided by asking questions upfront, getting a rough estimate, and finding out what details will impact the total project cost once it’s finished.

3. Not Staying in Touch with Your Contractor

Keep in mind that costs are often predicated on details unique to your home that can range from the pitch of a roof to the quality of wood aging around a door frame. Contractors don’t always have a full picture when starting out. And many of those details are not discernible at first glance. Stay in touch with your contractor regarding changes that come up along the way so you are aware of any changes that might be needed, as well as whether the final cost will be impacted.

4. Using Subpar Materials or Inferior Windows and Doors to Cut Corners

This mistake cannot be overstated. It is simply not worth it to save money by using subpar materials. The lifespan of a window can be as low as fifteen years for some parts of the window and up to fifty years for others.

Harris Exteriors is all too aware of the inferior materials and products on the market that don’t stand the test of time – or Midwestern weather – and end up costing homeowners in the long run. A seasoned contractor with a diversity of experience can tell you about the pros and cons of different brand name items and why one might be recommended over another. We only use durable, high-quality materials that we trust. OWEN CORNING, GAF for your ROOFINGYou can choose Sierra Pacific, ANDERSEN, ALSIDE WINDOWS for your replacement windows, Therma TRU for your Entry doors, Mastic for your Vinyl siding, and LP SmartSide for your Wood Siding. It’s your choice!

5. Lack of Proper Expertise & Accreditations

A contracting company worth its salt should be able to back up its claims of expertise. There are many ways to do this. The more experienced businesses will generally present some combination of industry affiliations:

Industry Certifications & Accreditations
Necessary Licensing
Surety Bonds & Permits
High Business Ratings
Proper Insurance Coverage
Member Affiliations like HOA Affiliations
Client Recommendations

Harris Exteriors comes with all the proper licensing and industry accreditations. Our member affiliations include NARI, CAI, CAA, and ACTHA. In addition, our Unlimited Roofing License means our business “includes roofing on residential, commercial and industrial properties.” If you need a roof replaced, we can handle it no matter the building type.

Harris Exteriors Has History of Building Good Relationships with Customers

One other thing about that survey mentioned above. The contractors in question weren’t building solid relationships with the homeowners who hired them. In contrast, Harris works closely with customers so they get just what they need. That’s why our past clients have so many good things to say about the work we have done on their homes.

Insulation Tips Every Homeowner Should Know

Proper insulation is essential in every home, particularly in northern regions that experience a lot of wind, rain and snow. And there are a few vital approaches to insulation that homeowners need to know to get the job done right. The last thing you want is a superficial solution that will break down and need yet further repairs in a few months.

With the proper approach, homeowners can find out which areas are in need of better insulation – as well as when it may be time for a full window or door replacement.

Thoroughly Inspect the Quality of Your Old Insulation

Start by inspecting the insulation in areas that may be letting cold winter air into your home. Insulation surrounding doors can be inconsistent, and you might not realize it until you remove the surrounding panels and take a closer look at what is inside of the wall around them. Only that way can you discover what approach will be sufficient to keep in the warm air and keep out cooler air.

Determine Whether Cold Air is Penetrating Your Windows

Sometimes the temperature of a home’s outer walls are measurably warmer than the doors and windows. If the temperature drops as you approach your windows, it’s a sign you’re in need of better insulation in those areas. There are different ways to make that happen. Common steps to resolve the problem, at least temporarily, can include:

Removing the trim
Testing for air leaks
Examining the quality of existing insulation
Trimming the calk surrounding the area
Providing new insulation around the edges
Replace trim boards if applicable

A home exterior professional will provide a more accurate sense of any air leakage and the best approach to remedy the situation.

Replace Damaged Windows and Doors

Repairing insulation and leaks in windows and doors might be enough to address the situation. But there comes a time when those repairs are no longer working. They can even lead to wasting money and resources and even further damage. An expert will review your options and help you find the more appropriate, high-quality replacement for your home.

Replace Your Attic Insulation with More Advanced, Effective Solution

How old are the insulation materials in your attic? If they’re no longer doing the job effectively, replacing them can seal in hot and cold air, help your HVAC system run more efficiently, and eventually lower your energy bills.

A consultant from Harris Exteriors will take a look at the space in question, assess your insulation and let you know if adding newer blown insulation is necessary. Newer products such as AtticCat® attic insulation are better at maintaining their consistency and last longer than older solutions that still exist in many Midwestern homes.

Take Appropriate Steps Using the Best Home Insulation Products

If the problem isn’t serious, you may just need to apply a high-grade sealant in the cracks and crevices around your doors or windows. On cold, windy days, the air around newly insulated spaces should be measurably warmer. Even if by a couple degrees, that controlled indoor climate will feel more comfortable and help keep your bills lower, as well. Your home will be less expensive to heat overall since the warm air won’t be escaping through hidden, poorly insulated areas.

Some other places you may want to inspect or add insulation:

The shell of your home or building
Ducts and pipes
Your walls

Contact Harris Exteriors for Expert Home Insulation Services

A proper assessment is necessary to take the correct approach to any home insulation solutions. You could use expensive, high-quality insulation products but they won’t get the job done if they’re a mismatch for what is actually going on in your home. Consult with Harris Exteriors, a home insulation expert that will let you know if there are ways to improve your home’s insulation.

Call Harris Exteriors at 630-524-4373 for a free estimate on insulation services. Check out our website for a look at our many other home services!

How to Protect Your Roof from Ice Dams This Winter

Ice dams are an unfortunate but common occurrence here in the Midwest that too often go unaddressed. And once they take root, they can quickly take a toll on the surrounding structure of a building, causing more than just leaks.

It isn’t easy to remove an ice dam on your own, let alone repair the aftermath, leading folks to make mistakes as they try to address the problem. While it can be tempting to head up to your roof and start banging away at the ice, doing so is more likely to damage the roof and make matters even worse.

That’s why it’s vital to prevent them from occurring, as well as address them as soon as possible.

What Causes Ice Dams?

An ice dam is a large block of ice that forms along the lower edge of a rooftop, typically after a heavy snow or series of snowfalls. As water from melting ice runs down toward the overhang of the roof, it freezes and causes a growth of ice to pile up. Eventually, the ice blocks water from dripping off the edge, trapping it on the surface behind the dam.

Having nowhere to go, that backup of water eventually finds its way downward and into the home. A reservoir of water makes its way under the shingles and before too long is leaking into the room below.

How Can You Prevent Ice Dams on Your Rooftop?

Start by taking steps to prevent ice dams from occurring in the first place. To do so, it helps to have a solid, well-designed and well-built rooftop in the first place. There is an art to an expertly designed roof. Have a professional roofer perform an examination to detect signs of construction deficiencies or wear and tear that could create a more vulnerable environment.

Another possible mitigation is to reduce heat exposure beneath the roof within the structure. The home will still need to be heated. But you might want to examine the insulated space between your ceiling and rooftop and, if necessary, add insulation between the two. Even small air leaks can cause the warmer air to travel upward and melt the snow above.

What Should You Do If an Ice Dam Forms on Your Roof?

If one is already forming, keep in mind that the ice doesn’t have to be removed entirely to stop a leak. You might get lucky and notice no leaking at all. If the buildup is increasing, a temporary solution might involve creating a pathway in the ice for the water to clear away. Some people find a way to apply rock salt to the affected area. However, it cannot be stressed enough: accessing rooftops can be quite dangerous, even for trained professionals, and is usually not recommended.

Before taking measures into your own hands, have a professional contractor with experience treating weather-related problems examine the area to determine the best way forward. They can assess the type of roof you have, whether an ice dam has started to form, and other possible factors.

Contact Illinois-Based Harris Exteriors for Rooftop Repairs This Winter

Some roof repair work can be done in the wintertime, but a full roof replacement usually requires weather above a certain temperature. Because each home is unique, it’s important to first talk to a trustworthy roofing expert so you know you’re getting the most appropriate and reliable solution for your home.

Want a stronger roof this winter? Harris Exteriors assesses, repairs and replaces roofs throughout the greater Chicagoland area. Call us or contact us online for a free estimate today.

DIY Window Insulation Versus Full Window Replacement?

As our homes age, keeping all of those windows properly insulated can be an ongoing battle. It’s especially important to address any insulation problems before winter arrives and brings cold drafts into your home. Taking matters into your own hands might do the trick, providing it’s done properly and for the right reasons. A good insulation job should last for years and does often require some minimal maintenance.

But before grabbing the canister of spray foam and heading toward the nearest draft, just be sure there isn’t a bigger problem that needs to be resolved. Having new windows installed is certainly more costly than insulating a few cracks around your window frames. However, a full window replacement may be the best option for eliminating deeper issues with old, worn out units that can’t be resolved through simple repairs.

When You Should Insulate Your Windows

Properly insulating your windows makes a big difference when it comes to reducing your energy bills and keeping your family warm in the winter (and cool in the summer). Window insulation kits can be a fairly straightforward and cost-effective way of treating minor leaks in your windows.

1. Test Your Window for Air Leaks

If it’s unclear where the drafts are coming from, try the candle test. While inside, hold a lit candle four to six inches from your closed window. If the flame flickers, it’s a sign that air is leaking in from the outside. Perform this same test on all of your windows you suspect of having a leak.

2. A Small Space or Damage in Insulation Is Visible

Perhaps you’ve noticed your insulation showing signs of wear. Whether your windows are insulated with caulking, foam spray or something else, inspect them closely to determine if the insulation is starting to break down.

3. A Minor Leak is the Only Problem

If your windows are fairly new or are in otherwise great condition, then replacing them is not the solution. With minor issues, reapplying insulation to the affected area might be enough to address the problem. There are different ways to handle DIY repairs. Typical steps might include:

Examining window units for spaces air could be getting through
Checking strips of calk for cracking or peeling
Checking weather stripping between frames and the walls
Applying fresh insulation where needed

When to Replace the Entire Window Unit

There are dozens of reasons a window unit may need to be replaced. When repairs have become insufficient to address the root of the problem, a full window replacement may be necessary. If they don’t shut properly, the wood is rotting, or drafts are getting out of control despite attempts at repairs, have a trusted home exterior professional examine them to determine if a full replacement is your best option.

What Is a Full Window Replacement?

Homes require a full window replacement when either repairs or a partial replacement of glass panes that leaves the existing frame or casings is insufficient at fixing the problem. Perhaps an examination by a professional has determined that a full replacement is the only long-term solution for your aged, damaged or nonfunctional windows. If so, a replacement can save you from repeated repair attempts that waste money and threaten further damage to the integrity of the building.

A full frame window replacement may even take less time than DIY repairs. It typically involves a few steps:

Removing the complete existing window frame and sashes, down to the studs
Selecting advanced, weather-resistant products, which typically include wood and fiberglass windows
Ensuring the frame jamb thickness matches the surrounding wall
Installing a new full frame window in the opening

Contact Harris Exteriors to Determine the Best Solution for Your Windows

As winter approaches, it is crucial to identify any window treatment your home may need. Hiring a partner to handle the job properly will help you and your family enjoy the months ahead knowing your home’s exterior is fully protected.

Harris Exteriors helps clients inspect, select and install the best windows for buildings in Streamwood, Barrington and Glen Ellyn, Illinois, as well as the surrounding areas. Reach out for a free consultation with one of our window experts today!

Top Benefits of Getting New Windows for Winter Weather?

If the windows in your home are not in the best condition, you have likely thought about replacing them. And there are many reasons to get that task done before winter arrives. Imagine the relief of knowing your family can spend the entire winter season in comfort, no matter which room they’re in, without having to deal with cold drafts or excessive condensation.

While it’s possible to replace your windows throughout the year, getting it done before the cold arrives makes the process a bit more pleasant for those at home. Naturally, you’ll first want to ensure that replacements are necessary, since some window problems can be repaired without having to install an entirely new unit.

But if it’s high time your home had solid, well-designed, functioning windows, why put off the inevitable? As a motivator, consider some of the reasons you may not have thought of to replace your outdated windows, especially in the fall.

What Are the Top Advantages of Replacing Your Windows in the Fall?

Anyone who has survived winter in the Midwest will understand some of the advantages of installing replacements before snow season. Not only do drafts have a way of entering a room when windows are past their expiration date, but even snow and ice can begin to enter through those gaps and cracks, as well.

However, there are three benefits that are especially salient this time of year:

1. More Energy Efficiency

Modern homes today should have high-quality, energy efficient windows to match.

Examples of windows that are more efficient include double-glazed ones, as well as low E/Argon gas filled windows that can heat the glass and provide extra comfort and insulation in the winter.

2. Lower Utility Bills

Energy efficient windows also help homeowners save money on their utility bills by reducing the energy costs of both heating and cooling their homes.

3. Added Comfort

Those newly installed, energy-efficient windows will do more than reduce your carbon footprint. They can also stop annoying temperature fluctuations and unwanted drafts from entering your home.

What Are Other Benefits of Getting New Windows This Season?

Let’s face it. People get busy, and everyone puts off even necessary home renovations at some point. But if you’ve been avoiding taking steps to get those old windows replaced, you may be in denial as to just how much of a drag they have become.

And there are other advantages to replacing your windows you may not have considered. Such as the additional benefits that you will enjoy in every season:

Extra Security

Double-pane glass and interlocking designs make it harder to unlock certain windows from the outside. Find out what models will help keep those uninvited guests out.

Added Beauty

Today’s state-of-the-art designs ensure that you are getting top of the line choices, as well as the most innovative styles, models and colors on the market.

Easier Cleaning

Many windows are designed with features that allow you to clean your windows much easier from inside as well as outside.

Increased Home Value

Installing high-quality, contemporary and energy efficient windows may also give your home’s resale value a boost. But even if you’re not going anywhere, the value they provide to your family and guests will be worth it.

Contact Harris Exteriors to Select the Best Replacements & Install Your New Windows

Harris Exteriors partners with the leading manufacturers of modern, efficient windows whose styles, colors, and grills can be customized to the individual demands of any given space. We understand that shopping for replacements can be a bit overwhelming. Since we work with many different providers, we can help clients figure out what selection meets their needs and is the best match for each room in their home.

Harris Exteriors can install windows at homes in Streamwood, Barrington and Glen Ellyn, Illinois, and the surrounding areas. Reach out for a free consultation with one of our experts today.

What Are the Top Signs Your Windows Should Be Replaced This Fall?

High quality, properly installed windows have a lasting, positive impact on a home and the lives of the people who live there. They offer beautiful views while keeping out chilly drafts in the winter and humidity in the summer – which is why it’s so important to take action once they show signs they need to be replaced.

And the fall is a great time to check your windows for signs they need to be replaced.

Once winter arrives, it can be difficult to work on a home’s exterior, and it’s best not to postpone the installation of necessary replacements as the icy months ahead may only exacerbate the damage. Do your family a favor and start by looking for signs that your outdated or damaged windows may no longer be providing the protection they should.

1. Uneven Indoor Climate, Cold Drafts or Rising Energy Bills

Are your energy bills higher than usual? It could be due to improperly sealed windows. As temperatures dip, it’s fairly easy to discover if your windows are the culprit.

When the space near the windows appears colder than in the rest of the home, it’s a surefire sign that too much air from outside is getting in. The indoor climate may vary somewhat room to room, but it shouldn’t do so within the same room to a noticeable degree. If it feels significantly colder when you are near a window, or if you notice a draft coming in, it may be time to replace them.

2. Improper Opening, Shutting or Locking

Do all of your windows operate precisely as they should? Over time, humidity and extreme temperatures can cause wood to warp so that windows no longer open and shut smoothly. Do a walk around, checking each one to ensure they lock properly and can be closed easily and securely.

Examine them for any of numerous signs they are not functioning as they should:

Need to be forced open
Are propped open
Are painted shut
Contain swollen or decaying frames
Loose or inadequate locks

3. Cracks or Other Damage Turns Up in Window Inspections

Over the years, the elements will take a toll on a home’s exterior, especially here in the Midwest. Too much precipitation and humidity eventually lead to rotting frames or leaky windows, and since restoring windows isn’t always possible it often makes more economic sense to replace the entire window unit.

If you’re worried about the expense, keep in mind that small amounts of moisture eventually lead to bigger problems. Perhaps they can be repaired. But if needed replacements are put off for too long it won’t just be the window frames that are rotting, and procrastinating might cost you more down the road.

4. Leaking Water or Excess Condensation

Any sign of leaking, however small, is cause for concern. There can be various sources of leaking water around or below a window. Poor insulation and a failure of the sealed unit itself are both signs it’s time to get those windows replaced, sooner rather than later.

Keep in mind that not all condensation signifies a problem with the window. When it is located between panes of glass or has increased significantly, those are possible signs of failed sealant. A windows expert at Harris Exteriors can take a look at your windows to determine whether you’re experiencing a normal amount of condensation in your home.

5. Inadequate Soundproofing

This last problem may not be as serious a consideration as cracked or malfunctioning windows. That’s why sound disturbances are so often overlooked and tolerated, but it happens at the expense of everyone living in the home. Even double pane windows can let a lot of noise in your home if they weren’t designed with the highest quality in mind.

Because Harris partners with multiple window manufacturers, we are positioned to recommend the best replacement option for your home should you choose that route.

Harris Brings Highest Quality Windows to Streamwood, Barrington & Glen Ellyn, Illinois

Just don’t wait too long to replace your ailing windows. In addition to adding to the beauty of a home, well-designed window installations play an important role in home security and boost its curb appeal, as well.

Harris Exteriors can have a specialist at your home in Streamwood, Barrington and Glen Ellyn, Illinois, and the surrounding areas. We will help you assess your windows and determine the best solution for your needs. Reach out for a free consultation with one of our experts today.

4 Ways to Protect Your Home’s Exterior This Fall

It’s far too easy to dismiss the impact of minor damage to the exterior of one’s home. A certain amount of wear and tear – some scuff marks or a little chipped paint here and there – are to be expected, especially here in the Midwest. But a variety of elements take their toll over time, and that can add up more quickly in regions battered by wind, rain, hail and snow each year.

The answer to such concerns is to first assess the quality of your home’s outer shell and then take whatever steps are necessary to improve it. There are multiple benefits to doing so before the winter season arrives:

Prevent water damage
Stave off rusting and rotting
Maintain indoor temperature and reduce heating bills
Prevent indoor leaks
Aid routine maintenance to prevent future problems
Preserve home value

Since a number of different components go into a home’s exterior, there are also multiple measures you may need to take to strengthen and protect the structure where you live.

1. Maintain Siding and Replace Damaged or Outdated Siding in Midwestern Homes

Many Midwestern homes are built with some form of outer protection that clads the blocks or concrete structure underneath. When siding is added, it protects dwellings from a whole range of threats and helps preserve the integrity of the structure. It helps keep moisture out while maintaining the indoor environment to keep inhabitants comfortable year round.

What type of siding does your home have? Some require more maintenance than others. For example, thicker external cladding, made from highly durable materials like fiber cement, typically requires minimal maintenance as long as it was installed properly. However, certain types of wood siding should be treated regularly, the frequency depending on factors such as pests and weather damage.

Because they partner with a range of brand names, a full-service installer like Harris Exteriors will discuss your needs and advise the style that compliments your home aesthetically while providing maximum protection:

Vinyl
Insulated
Cedar
Aluminum
Fiber Cement
Stone Veneer

Fortunately, today’s replacement siding is often stronger and more attractive than what you may have seen in older homes. They have been designed to withstand extreme wind and dings from debris. With more options available, siding added today may last as long as fifty years. Whether the concern where you live stems from humidity, termites, corrosion, or something else entirely, there has probably been a development that can resist those specific threats for lasting results.

2. Inspect and Repair or Replace Rooftop

When it comes to shielding a home against snow and rain, rooftop quality is one of the most important aspects of a home’s exterior, yet the hardest to reach and inspect. There are several steps you can take to prepare your rooftop for the colder months ahead. A little preparation now will also help the water flow off when things thaw next spring.

Four steps to take:

Have the roof inspected for cracked singles or flashing that needs repair or adjustment.
Remove debris that has accumulated over the summer.
Clean any skylights.
Clean gutters and downspouts.

By doing an inspection in hard-to-view places, you can make small repairs so that more serious problems don’t crop up later on.

3. Insulate or Replace Faulty Windows and Doors

Why have perfect siding or a new roof just to allow wind to blow in through cracks in the windows or improperly sealed doors? It’s always a good idea to inspect doors and windows annually – and autumn is a great time to do it. For one thing, those leaks that sometimes appear overhead are frequently caused by a lack of insulation around a window or second-story deck entrance outside.

Properly sealing windows and door frames may be enough to keep out moisture and drafts. However, holding on to those older, outdated windows and doors will do your family no favors in the long run. It’s also a great time to take stock of anything that is past its expiration date and install more modern, well-built replacements.

4. Work with an Experienced, Reputable Contractor like Harris Exteriors in Illinois

A final yet crucial way to protect your home is to partner with a contractor like Harris Exteriors, which boasts a solid track record of success with homeowners in the northern Illinois region. Customers appreciate that we have a history of working with HOA-certified contractors and base our work on decades of industry experience.

A team of specialists at Harris Exteriors is ready to answer all of your questions about the best ways to protect your home this fall and winter. Contact us to set up a consultation today!

Finding a Top-Rated Contractor for your Roofing, Windows, Siding & Doors

We all want to trust the quality of a contracting service we’re considering when we need work done on our home. But word-of-mouth referrals are not always available, and a slick website can sometimes conceal an inferior product or service. So, if you’re considering hiring someone for the first time, how do you proceed?

There are quite a few signs that your roofing, windows and doors contractor is a trusted business that will provide you high-quality services. Among the more important criteria to look for:

Good standing with the BBB
Up-to-date state and local licensing
A minimum of $1,000,000 in general liability insurance
A portfolio and affiliations demonstrating their experience

Finding the right contractor can feel like a project unto itself. To make it a little easier, become informed about why the different criteria you’re looking for matter.

Look up BBB Grade and Other Ratings

One of the first and simplest ways to scout a reliable contractor is to look up their rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). From A+ to F, the “grade” represents the bureau’s opinion of how the business tends to interact with its customers. While it can’t tell you everything about a company’s performance, it is based on a range of helpful information gathered from public data sources.

Factors they provide might include:

How long it has been in operation
Any history of complaints
How transparent it is about its business practices
Government actions related to inadequate licensing

With a company like Harris Exteriors that comes with an A+ rating, you can be comfortable knowing it rates high in those areas. With other names, you may discover insufficient information about a business or an ongoing review of their file. You can also find factors that lower a rating. For example, the profile may indicate that the business has not been transparent about its marketplace conduct. In that case, you may want to do a bit more research before making a decision.

Do They Have HOA Certification?

Something else to look for is HOA certification, which is extremely important for most homeowners in the Chicagoland area. This lets you know that companies are bonded to perform work for the local homeowner associations.

Why does this matter? For instance, at Harris, it means the project managers provide clients with the approved materials, styles, and colors to match the existing buildings and homes in their neighborhood. This includes a whole range of products:

Roofing
Siding
Doors
Windows
Gutters
Soffits
Fascia

An HOA-certified business like Harris will provide free estimates and in-home consultations for all of the HOAs in the area, as well as opportunities to visit their showrooms to see the products for yourself.

Read Customer Reviews and Testimonials

Someone who has been in business for several years or more will likely publish some customer reviews to shed light on the experiences clients have had in working with them. The absence of any testimonials may not be a red flag, but it could indicate that the contractor is less experienced – a possible downside for more complex projects.

Demonstrate Vast Industry Knowledge and Strong Customer Service

Why settle when you can have a partner that has the latest industry knowledge and dedication to professional craftsmanship? Ratings alone are not a guarantee of a business’s reliability or performance. Reach out to different companies to find out more about your options.

Talking to representatives at the company will also clue you in as to how you would be treated as a paying customer. Someone who can provide excellent customer service is also important in jobs where you have many questions or need help making the right selections for your home. You might benefit more from a company that hires salespeople who can provide good recommendations about which products to use. If all goes well, you’ve now established a relationship with a company you can trust on future projects involving windows, doors, siding and roofing.

Contact Harris Exteriors for Top-Rated Results on Roofing, Windows, Siding & Doors

The team at Harris is certified, insured, and bonded to perform work for all homeowner associations in the Western and Northern Chicagoland area. We partner with tested and highly qualified service providers so you know you’re getting someone properly vetted. One of our specialists can come out to inspect your home and help you assess what the next best step should be.

At Harris Exteriors, we have the rating, certifications and testimonials that new customers require. With a belief in providing unparalleled customer service and quality craftsmanship, our team is happy to answer any questions you have about repairs and installations. Contact us to set up a consultation today!

How to Get the Most Value for Your Money When Hiring a Roofing Contractor

The biggest challenge homeowners face when replacing or repairing their roof lies in choosing the right contractor. Many workers are more than happy to help you patch up your rooftop. But the quality of service can’t be always assessed as readily as a window or door installation, making it hard to know you’ve made the right choice.

Instead, getting the most value for your money will depend on a number of things:

Quality of roofing materials
Expertise of installation
Experience and skills of contractors
Appearance
Durability
Cost of service

It’s no wonder so many people simply go with the cheapest option. The job of finding the right service can feel a bit daunting. But focusing on the long term will ultimately give you the most longevity – not to mention the comfort of knowing you and your family are protected in your home.

Ask About Repair & Replacement Process

As you explore your options, consider the current market value of the main materials that will be used. Good value comes with resilient, long-lasting materials. You want the peace of mind knowing your new rooftop will last for many years to come.

Ask about processes and success rates, whether the company follows up with clients to ensure satisfaction. Look up reviews online. The more informed you get about the repair or installation process, the more confident you’ll be that the amount you’re spending is worth it.

Don’t Cut Corners: Ensure Proper Process & Durable, High-Quality Roofing Materials

We all know someone who thought their roof had been repaired until leaks appeared months later. This type of job can be tricky because the repair work may not be tested until the next snow storm. Substandard work can cause damage from ice dams that prevent melting snow from draining off the rooftop. By that time it can be difficult to fix what should have been done right the first time.

A home’s roof will not only last longer, but stand out from the rest with styles that are attractive, as well as durable and long-lasting. For example, the fascia board may require maintenance periodically. Soffit and fascia replacements can provide the final decorative touches that give extra value while eliminating the need to paint.

Get Estimates & Free Consultations from Top-Rated Contractors in Your Area

Getting multiple estimates will help you select the best, most appropriate solution for your home.

Here are a few trusted brands known for their high-quality services:

GAF Roofing

GAF Roofing has a long track record of producing exceptional quality of home roofing products. The top-of-the-line in standard “3-tab” shingles, these roofing materials are designed to provide exceptional performance, traditional detailing and a classic appeal.

DaVinci Roofscapes

Embarrassed by the appearance of your aging rooftop, or simply tired of leaks? DaVinci Roofscapes uses composite polymers to create slate and shake roofing tiles for attractive and long-lasting results.

Owens Corning

Another trusted and highly qualified roofing contractor, Owens Corning installers can put in your new shingles in a timely fashion and for an affordable price.

Always ask for estimates when contacting a new window installer, roof repair company or building contractor. In-person inspections are a great opportunity to ask questions that will clear up any questions you may have.

And never make a decision based solely on price. Some brands and models provide more longevity and return on investment, while others will have you searching around for yet another service when things don’t go as they should.

Contact Harris Exteriors for Roof Repair Estimates, Glass Window Replacement Costs & More

Harris Exteriors partners with a range of excellent rooftop providers in the Chicagoland area. One of our specialists can come out to inspect your home and help you assess what the next best step should be. Our team is happy to answer any questions you have about repairs and installations, weather about:

Rooftops
Siding
WIndows
Doors
Other Services

At Harris Exteriors, we believe in providing each client with unparalleled customer service and quality craftsmanship. Contact us to set up a consultation and start planning your new rooftop today.

Is Your Patio or Screened Porch Ready for Summer?

Is there any better feeling than brushing off your porch and getting it ready for summer gatherings? Throughout the spring, homes across the country have been converting rooms and open spaces to take advantage of the warm summer months ahead.

A well-designed patio or screen porch can bring many benefits to your home:

Extra entertainment space
Improved energy efficiency
More comfort
Increased safety
Boosted home value

Yet, it can be tempting to put off this work-intensive ritual. Getting even a small porch ready for summer parties often introduces questions about much-needed renovations and upgrades. Here’s some food for thought to help get your started.

Take Time Setting Up Your Patio for Outdoor Relaxation

Give yourself enough prep time before making any plans for your patio. Rugs or other surfaces may need to be power washed. Pillow casing should be fresh and clean, as well. Light fixtures may need to be adjusted or replaced. When all else is complete, adding potted flowers to the mix will bring your patio to life.

Finally, don’t overlook the door leading to the patio. As we discuss below, the entrance is a vital component to the overall look and functionality of your favorite outdoor space.

Clean and Prepare Windows & Screens for Installations or Replacements

An artfully designed screen porch is the perfect place for entertaining in warmer months. lt’s also one of the best ways to add value to your home. A porch can be two rooms in one if you swap out the screens for glass windows in colder months. However, the space can be enclosed other ways or simply go unused in winter.

Getting this space ready for use starts with a thorough cleansing. Be sure to use gentle cleansers on all the wood surfaces. You may need separate products for metal, wood and glass surfaces. Then, when it’s time to install your porch windows, consider hiring a professional installer who knows their way around a window frame and can adjust trim or reinforcements without causing any damage.

Install More Energy Efficient Windows and Patio Doors

One of the biggest mistakes people make is building a beautiful screen porch but failing to install a decent door. What they may not realize is that replacing exterior doors is a simple way to improve the quality of the room while boosting the curb appeal of the home. A new door can bring other benefits, from more energy efficiency to increased safety.

There are many signs it’s time to upgrade your patio door:

There is a draft near the door.
Its hardware no longer operates smoothly.
They’re hard to open.
Condensation sometimes appears on the panes of glass.
Cracks have formed in the doors.
Gaps appear between the doors and frames.
They are stylistically outdated.

When it comes to installing or upgrading doors and windows, work with an experienced contractor that is familiar with all the major models. To get them installed properly, an expert will take a look at the frame itself and make any possible adjustments. This ensures you’re choosing the most appropriate option for your space.

What Type of Door Will Work Best with Your Porch or Patio?

Getting the best door for the allotted space depends on where it is located and what aesthetic is desired. Four popular options include:

1 Sliding

Sliding patio doors require less floor space than a hinged door, making them a great choice when space is limited.

2 Hinged

Hinged patio doors can feature a single or double door that swings open from the side for easy access to the outdoors.

3 French Sliding

Traditional-looking “French” sliding patio doors add elegance while saving space.

4 French Hinged

These hinged patio doors can be configured so that both doors open out or in to expand the living area.

Harris Exteriors Is Your Best Choice for Installing Windows, Exterior Doors and Roofs

Spring is an excellent time to repair or replace any aspect of your home’s exterior that needs it – siding, roofing, doors and windows. Harris Exteriors has a track record of providing top-rated products and installations for the exteriors of all types of homes. Our team will evaluate your needs and walk you through every step of the installation process.

Harris is known for providing unparalleled customer service and quality craftsmanship throughout the greater Chicagoland area. Many of our exterior door products and options are on display at our Streamwood showroom. Contact Harris Exteriors to set up a consultation with a member who can help you get your porch or patio ready for summer!