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Roof Repairs- Fast!

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Before Mr. and Mrs. Wester contacted us, our competition turned their project down. They needed their roof fixed fast. Other companies did not want to work under pressure. Likewise, the responsibility of roofing a home that would be resold soon is a daunting task. But, unlike our competition, we were up for the challenge.

The Westers needed their roof repaired in order to sell their house. The timing was critical. So, we provided a full roof inspection to see what we were working with. The roof was overdue for an update and was actively leaking. From there, we documented problem areas and provided an accurate proposal. 

Our Plan of Action 

We determined that a roof replacement was best due to the years of damage. A new roof adds value to a home, making it easier to sell. Additionally, it provides peace of mind to the buyer knowing that their roof is safe and stable. 

Getting to work

After a week of deciding our plan of action, our construction team got to work. A trained roofing crew of 10 came out to the property. They protected the home, tore off the old and damaged roof and installed a new one. The Westers are wise and chose the Owens Corning Duration Roof System. This roofing material protects the system from the elements and seals out moisture. Unlike other roofing brands, it also allows for the shingles to breathe, which prevents attic mold. 

Results  – Fast! 

Going into this project, we expected to finish within two days. However, we completed the job within only one day. Within that day, we replaced their roof and also installed a chimney flue cap free of charge. 

In the end, Mr. and Mrs. Wester were pleased. They can now sell their home, worry-free. 

Contact Over the Top Roofing and Construction 

Let us create a plan of action to solve your roofing and construction problems. Please contact us online, or give us a call at 414-531-ROOF for your free project quote and comprehensive needs analysis. 

 

Five Ways to Prep Your House for Winter

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Winter is Wisconsin the most grueling time for a home. Insulation is put to the test to keep your family warm. Your chimney’s structural integrity works double-time. Precipitation and debris put your roof and gutters at risk. Not to mention that there is a higher risk for a fire and carbon monoxide leak. Read on to learn the five ways to prep your house for winter. 

#1 Inspect Your Insulation

Insulation keeps your warm air inside during the winters and cool air during the summers. And although insulation might not always be seen, it is in almost every area of the house. The attic, however, is the most important to keep insulated and prepared for winter. This is mainly because heat rises into the attic. If your house is not properly insulated, your family won’t be warm and your energy bills will skyrocket. Choosing the correct insulation for your attic and installing it yourself can be difficult and risky. Homeowners should contact a professional.

#2 Check Your Chimney

Checking your chimney is a good idea at any time, but it is imperative before a harsh winter. Debris and precipitation can eat away at the structural integrity of the chimney and create air leaks over time. A specialist should take care of these leaks, as well as the chimney damper. This way, rooftop accidents are avoided,  little to no heating and cooling will escape, and your energy bill will decrease. 

#3 Maintain Your Gutters

Much like your chimney, debris and weather can take a toll on your gutters. Fall leaves get stuck inside gutters, making them impassible for water and snow. 

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If this happens water can roll off and flow down your house, which can lead to exterior and foundation issues. This process during the winter puts your house at risk of ice dams. With enough damage over time, gutters will need to be replaced. 

#4 Prevent and Repair Roof Damage

Repairing roof damage can be an ongoing project if the right preventions are not taken. Branches and leaves can pile up and create damage over time. So, keep an eye on any trees, especially sick and dying ones, as they pose a threat to your house. Wetness and snow can make an already treacherous roof dangerous, so hire a professional if you notice any problems. 

#5 Review Your Fire and Carbon Monoxide Detectors 

Believe it or not, most fires and carbon monoxide poisonings happen during colder months. This is due to increased chimney and furnace use. Houses are sealed up tight and toxic gases in your heating agents become a serious hazard. Therefore, detectors must be checked once a month. You can easily do this to keep your family safe. For more DIY projects to prep your house for winter, check out MoneyTalks News.

Maintenance-Free Solutions to Update Your Wisconsin Home’s Exterior

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Preparing for the Wisconsin Winter and Eventual Resale

When Jim and Chara Harris contacted us looking for maintenance-free solutions to update their home’s exterior, they had done their homework. They found our stellar reviews on Angie’s List and wanted us to help them prepare their house for the fast-approaching winter.

Moreover, they explained the issues and concerns they had for their home and wanted to ensure that the house would be ready for resale in five to seven years. After a complete walk-through of the house’s perimeter, we discovered that the high winds common at their location in Elkhorn, Wisconsin were damaging their home. Additionally, there was some insect damage, rotten wood, and a few windows that needed to be updated.

Looking for Maintenance-Free Solutions

After the initial assessment, we determined that siding, soffit, window and trim updates would be the best combination to prepare the house for the winter and eventual resale. We discussed all of the options within their budget and came up with a plan.

Getting to Work On New Siding, Soffits, Trim and Windows

Within six weeks of deciding what our plan of attack would be, our construction team got to work on replacing their siding, soffit, trim, and windows. As the project progressed, the team did not find any other areas of concern. The Harrises were pleased that our initial assessment was spot on—which meant no unexpected costs to them. We completed our maintenance-free solutions to update their home within a week-and-a-half—right on schedule.

Their Home’s New Exterior Look

We pride ourselves on providing individualized services for specific needs. The best compliments we can receive are your referrals. Jimand Charra, who described our work as fantastic, added that “they’ve already had neighbors come up to them asking who completed their project.” This is music to our ears, and not altogether uncommon.

Contact Over the Top Roofing and Construction

Let us demonstrate to you our commitment to excellence. Please contact us online, or give us a call at 414-531-ROOF for your free project quote and comprehensive needs analysis.

See Jim and Charra’s project for yourself!

Have a bigger project you need to dive in to? Beyond roofing, we offer all types of repair, remodeling and construction services. 

Adding Skylights to Your Home

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Spring is here and adding a skylight can breathe new life into your home. Skylights make a great addition that leaves an everlasting impression. While they’re far from being a new innovation, skylights are still stylish. Here’s what you need to know about the benefits of installing skylights in your home.

What are Skylights?

A skylight is a window in a roof or ceiling. They are super versatile and can be installed in living rooms, kitchens, bathrooms and bedrooms. However, a skylight isn’t simply a glass plated window. There are many different types of skylights with their own purpose.

Fixed Skylight

Fixed skylights are windows in ceilings and roofs that can’t be opened. These skylights are great for letting a little more light shine through.

Ventilated Skylight

Ventilated skylights are able to open and close. According to a post from Go Smart Bricks, they are ideal for bathrooms and bedrooms, which may need extra ventilation.

Tubular Skylight

A tubular skylight is a good alternative to fixed and ventilated skylights. This type of skylight is essentially a large tube that looks like a telescope. Windows and Sidings recommend installing tubular skylights in bedrooms, closets, or any room that doesn’t have windows.

Skylights are very unique in their design and their ability to brighten up rooms. Therefore, there are many benefits to installing skylights in your home.

The Benefits of Installing Skylights

Increases Your Home’s Resale Value

Skylights are “greener” home additions that can help boost your home’s resale value. According to an article from Consumer Affairs, the natural light that comes through is a good mood booster that buyers are looking for. Furthermore, homeowners who invest in skylights may save money on their monthly energy bill.

A Great Way to Reduce Energy Costs

Homeowners who install a skylight may see a reduction in their energy bills. Skylights can let natural light in and help reduce the need for heat and lighting. However, it’s highly disputed whether or not it reduces your home’s energy use.

Having more windows in your homes means more potential for heat/air loss. But, as the United States Department of Energy points out, “Manufacturers use various glazing technologies to reduce these impacts, including heat-absorbing tints, insulated glazing, and low-emissivity (low-e) coatings.” Making sure your skylights are properly installed will minimize energy loss.

Above all, skylights are a great way to redefine a room’s look.

Making Rooms Breathable and Look Bigger

It’s no secret that natural light reveals true beauty. According to a post from Flynn Roofing Co., adding a skylight can make rooms look bigger, which may help up your resale value! Additionally, adding ventilated skylights can let more air flow in, which is helpful in places that are exposed to excessive moisture.

Now that you know the types of skylights and their benefits, you can learn more about installing one today by contacting local roofing professionals. Over the Top Roofing specializes in roofing and construction work and can get you on the way to installing skylights in your home today.

Choosing Insulation for Your Wisconsin Home

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You should feel comfortable in your home no matter what season. Insulating your home will provide you with a  comfortable living space and make your home more welcoming. If you are trying to re-insulate your home, here’s what you should know about choosing the right type of insulation.

What Does it Mean to Insulate Your Home?

Insulation is essentially adding materials that will help regulate the temperature in your home. They help keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Keeping your home well-insulated provides you with a comfortable living space and saves you money on your energy bills. Knowing a homes R-Value helps homeowners in choosing insulation and how much they need.

What is R-Value?

R-Value measures how much resistance insulation has to heat flow. This map from the U.S Department of Energy helps homeowners figure out how much insulation they need based on climate. Wisconsin residents should use insulation rated R49 to R60 for attics. R38 to R49 for 3-4 inches of existing insulation and R25 to R30 for floors.

Insulation comes in different forms and materials. However, each of them carry their own advantages and disadvantages.

Blown-In Insulation

Blown-in insulation is free-form and made from cellulose and fiberglass. This insulation works best in tight, hard to reach places. There are many different brands to choose from, but Over the Top Roofing recommends Atticat’s Expanding Blown-In System for best results.

There are a couple of things to consider with blown-in insulation. Blown-in insulation is not water resistant and can get moldy. You should only install blown-in insulation in dry areas. A post from Modernize urges homeowners to also remove all existing insulation to ensure the new insulation does its job. Homeowners looking for insulation that needs to be cut may benefit in choosing insulation rolls and batts.

Rolled Insulation and Batts

This type of insulation normally comes rolled up and is a popular choice for most homeowners. Insulation rolls and batts are very durable, easy to cut and transport. One thing to consider with batt and rolled insulation is that you should take careful measurements before installing. When in doubt, it’s always a safe bet to consult a professional. 

Insulation Boards

These styrofoam boards work best when installed behind walls and under floors. These boards are unique because of their lightweight, durability, and resistance to water. However, they’re not particularly strong, so take good care of the boards when it comes time to install them.

Installing insulation is not an easy task. Therefore, homeowners should call on professionals for help.

Installing Insulation on Your Own

Homeowners who are re-insulating their home should consult a professional before attempting to take on the job themselves. A professional can assess your current insulation for mold, and asbestos, which can spread if you disrupt the source. See our blog post on leaving insulation work to experts, and visit Over the Top Roofing for your insulation needs.

 

 

 

Chimney Fires: How to Protect Your Wisconsin Home

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No matter where you live, a fire can start where you least expect it. The National Fire Protection Agency estimates that United States fire departments responded to 355,440 house fires from 2015 to 2016. However, your chimney can also cause a house fire. Here’s what you need to know about chimney fires and protecting your Wisconsin home.

How Common are Chimney Fires?

Chimney fires sounds strange when you say it out loud. However, they are more common than you think. According to statistics from the Chimney Safety Institute of America, there was an average of 22,300 chimney fires between 2012 and 2014.  Knowing the signs of a chimney fire can help save you and your home. The Chimney Safety Institute of America says that homeowners should look out for popping noises, dense smoke, and a “hot smell.”

Common Causes of Chimney Fires

Chimney fires are often the result of improper care and maintenance. Here are some of the common causes of chimney fires:

Creosote

The number one cause of chimney fires is creosote. Creosote is a black, tarry substance that occurs due to incomplete burning. When creosote builds up, it prevents fumes from fully exhausting and prevents chimneys from controlling a fire. Besides causing a fire, the incomplete burning causes the exhaustion of fumes that are harmful to humans, leading to a buildup of soot.

Soot

Soot is another by-product of incomplete burning that looks like  black stains. This by-product occurs when homeowners burn untreated wood, plastics, or don’t completely burn wood. Soot is especially dangerous since it can exhaust carcinogenic gases. Breathing in carcinogens often leads to respiratory illness.

Improper Maintenance

Calling the chimney sweeper can help prevent chimney fires. The job of chimney sweepers is to clean soot and make sure your chimney is functioning properly. Homeowners should have their chimney swept at least once a year.

Knowing is half the battle, and when it comes to chimney fires, knowing how to prevent them is everything.

Preventing Chimney Fires

There are a number of things you can do in order to prevent chimney fires and producing carcinogenic gases:

  1. Get an annual chimney inspection. Inspectors will be able to tell you if your chimney needs maintenance, or whether creosote has built up.
  2. Use a chimney liner. Also called a flue liner, this will help contain combustion.
  3. Build small fires with dry wood. Wet wood can attribute to creosote build up and bigger fires create more smoke.

Final Word on Chimney Fires

Performing maintenance, and knowing the signs of a chimney fire is essential for homeowners. If you recently had a chimney fire or you need maintenance done, Over the Top specializes in rebuilds and restoration of chimneys!