Tag: services

How to Go About Siding Installation

Devon Pace Concrete Contractor , , , ,

Stucco Charleston SC is an important part of your home, protecting it from moisture and other elements. It is also an attractive way to dress up your home’s exterior.

Before siding installation, it’s a good idea to trim branches and move any furniture that might be in the way. Some contractors will do this for you, but it’s also your responsibility to create room for the crew to work.

Before beginning your siding installation, the contractors will powerwash all exterior walls. This will remove any dirt and debris that might interfere with the new siding. They’ll also inspect the existing wall for water rot, sheathing damages, and asbestos. Before the project, the contractor will address these issues to ensure the new siding is securely attached and durable.

After the wall is cleaned and prepped, the construction crew will begin stripping the old siding down to your home’s frame. Then, they will install a base layer known as substrate, made of oriented-strand boarding (OSB) and similar to plywood. Next, a weather barrier will be stapled over the substrate to add another layer of protection from moisture for your home’s interior.

If you have bushes or trees near your house, trim them back to minimize the risk of them getting scraped during the process. It’s also a good idea to move any lawn decorations, furniture, or gardening equipment that might be in the path of the construction site. This will make the job more efficient and safer for the crew. The contractor will also remove and dispose of any old debris from the work area, so you won’t have to worry about it being left around your property or driveway.

In the meantime, it’s a good idea to park your vehicles farther away from your house to free up space for the dumpster and for workers to access your vehicle for materials. It’s also a good idea for families with children and pets to stay inside during the installation to avoid disturbing them by commotion.

Once the siding is installed, your contractor will reinstall any shutters and downspouts you removed during prep. They’ll also apply caulking around all edges of the new siding to secure it and help it resist moisture. They’ll use Sherwin Williams Duration caulking, which has a 50-year lifetime and will protect your siding from fading, chipping, or cracking over time.

When installing siding, it is important to have the right materials. The right materials will ensure a durable, long-lasting result. Different types of siding are available, from traditional wood-look products to engineered wood strand materials. Engineered wood strand technology allows these products to retain the look of real wood while being more resilient and long-lasting. These materials are often treated with zinc borate and other chemicals to protect against fungal decay, termites, and moisture.

The siding should be installed over a continuous water-resistive barrier to stop the intrusion of incidental rainfall. Check with your local building code to determine what type of barrier is required in your geographic area. Code-compliant flashing should be integrated with the water-resistive barrier and applied at the intersection of walls and roofing to prevent water infiltration (Fig. 26).

To help prevent water infiltration, it is best to install the trim and flashing before the siding is installed. This helps to give the siding a tighter fit around these areas and reduces the amount of caulk needed afterward.

Before installing the siding, the trim and flashing should be nailed with a trim nailer. The nails used should be finishing nails, not coil nails, as they are smaller and have a smooth head that is less likely to damage the siding. These nails can be purchased from most home improvement stores.

After the trim and flashing are in place, a type of flashing called Z-flashing should be installed above all doors and windows. This flashing is shaped like a long Z and is installed with one edge against the frame of the window or door and the other hanging slightly over the trim to redirect any water behind the rim.

Once the flashing and trim are in place, the substrate can be installed. A popular material for the substrate is oriented-strand boarding, or OSB, which is similar to plywood and provides extra stability for the vinyl siding. Some siding manufacturers also offer an insulated substrate product that can help increase your home’s energy efficiency.

If you are a DIYer or hiring a contractor, gathering materials and tools is one of the first steps. This includes a tape measure, pen/pencil and paper, a ladder, and possibly a rough sketch of the house. Once everything is ready, the siding installation begins. It is a good idea to start with the longest wall on the home’s exterior to get into a rhythm and ensure you are measuring correctly. All houses can be broken down into shapes of triangles and rectangles, which will help with the measurements. It would be best to determine where the soffit will be, as the new siding needs to meet with the house.

Once all the wall areas are measured, you can calculate how many squares of siding you will need for your project. For rectangular walls, you will need to take the area of each wall minus any windows and doors. For roofs, you will need to measure the base and height of each roof. You can also add the area of any garages, sheds, or other triangular structures on your property. It is a good idea to add 10% of the material in case of any waste or errors during the process. This will ensure you have enough materials during the siding installation.

The siding can be placed after the substrate (OSB, plywood, or similar product) is installed, and a weather barrier is stapled. Using a joint tape between the substrate and the weather barrier is important to prevent moisture from entering your home’s frame.

The last step of the siding installation is to nail the pieces together. Several methods can be used, but the most common is to use 3D-painted nails with colored heads that match the color of your siding. This allows for expansion and contraction while still allowing for a tight fit.

At this point, any other elements that need to be reinstalled, such as trim and window and door trim, can be reattached. This can also be a good time to reinstall any shutters. Once everything is in place, the yard will be cleaned, and any old materials removed during the siding installation will be released for recycling.

A proper maintenance plan is the best way to ensure that your siding lasts long. Developing one includes scheduling routine cleaning and inspections, identifying and making necessary repairs, and budgeting for major replacements or repair services. Regular inspections should consist of checking for signs of weather damage, including dents or cracks in the siding, loose boards, and water leaks. If you notice any problems, contact a professional siding contractor immediately to prevent further damage or mold growth.

It is also important to check that your gutters are blockage-free to prevent overflow and flooding of the sheathing, which can promote mold and mildew. It would be best to trim overhanging branches and foliage, as they can scratch or catch on the siding and cause damage. If your siding is exposed to a lot of rain, you should also consider re-nailing loose sheathing or replacing rotting components.

If you have steel siding, regularly inspect it after a storm to ensure that wind or flying debris doesn’t leave marks that could eventually rust. If you spot any scratches, apply a nonabrasive stainless steel scratch remover and scrub with a wire brush. If rust does appear, use a rust-inhibitive primer and paint the affected area (Miceli and Heil).

Once all the sheathing is installed, it’s a good idea to caulk or seal any gaps or seams in your siding to keep moisture out. This will not only prevent moisture penetration and promote a more energy-efficient home, but it will help to maintain the beauty and durability of your new siding.

Sealing any openings around pipes, vents, electrical outlets, and windows is also a good idea. This will help to improve your home’s energy efficiency, prevent moisture infiltration, and reduce air and sound pollution.

Masonry Repair- Everything You Need To Know

Miles Conley General Contractor , , , ,

Masonry repair in Retaining Walls Charleston SC involves replacing or patching original units with cementitious material. It is a crucial part of brick structure upkeep and can prevent damage from water or pests. Signs that masonry needs repair include discolored masonry (indicating moisture absorption), crumbling mortar, and thin cracks. If left untreated, these issues can cause structural integrity problems.

Masonry Repair

Repointing is a masonry repair technique that involves repairing and replacing crumbling mortar joints. A repointing job is often necessary to keep brick structures looking good and prevent water penetration. Water damage can cause extensive and costly structural problems, so repointing is one of the most important maintenance tasks that should be completed frequently.

Masonry structure owners should look for signs that their mortar joists must be repointed, including damp spots and visible cracking or loosening of bricks. Cracked or damaged mortar gives water a path into the brick, where it can lead to serious issues like structural damage and foundational collapse. Repointing can save homeowners the expense of rebuilding a wall or chimney that could have been avoided by repairing the mortar in time.

The mortar joints of a masonry building are what holds the structure together. Over time, weather and father time can cause these mortar joints to deteriorate, which creates voids that allow water to enter and lead to significant damage over time. Repointing helps fix these voids by closing them up with new mortar and ensuring they are sealed properly to prevent future damage.

When a masonry structure needs repointing, it’s important to spread a drop cloth below the area and use a joint raker to scrape away old mortar. After raking, the mason will mix some fresh mortar and apply it to the masonry structure, filling in the cracks and restoring the original mortar joints. The mason will then mist the newly applied mortar to prevent cracks as it dries, which usually takes about four days.

When considering repointing, homeowners should know that the process can be messy. This is because the mason will have to break up and remove a large portion of the existing brick, resulting in dust and debris that may need to be cleaned up before it’s complete. To protect your belongings and reduce the dust that needs to be cleaned up, you should cover any indoor areas that can’t be moved with plastic sheeting. This will also help protect your windows from the dust that can get kicked up due to the repointing process.

Brick is a durable material withstood the test of time and weather. However, even the most sturdy masonry structures can need some maintenance occasionally. Tuckpointing addresses compromised mortar and help protect your brick structure from water damage and structural problems.

Moisture intrusion is a significant problem for brick and stone structures. It can cause mortar joints to break down, which allows moisture and sand to infiltrate and weaken the structure. Over time, this can lead to various issues, including mildew, rot, and mold. Tuckpointing stops this damage by filling broken and deteriorated joints with new mortar, preventing moisture from entering the wall.

Tuckpointing is a detailed process involving grinding down the existing mortar in the joints and replacing it with new mortar. We use a special tuckpointing grinder with a 4-inch sandwich blade to cut through the old mortar, creating an opening for the new mortar. We then fill the voids with new mortar that closely matches the color of the surrounding brick. We then tool the new mortar to create a clean, finished look and stop water from seeping behind the brick walls.

When done correctly, tuckpointing is virtually invisible. We carefully match the color of the mortar to the existing brick, making it nearly impossible to tell where the tuckpointing work has been completed.

Another benefit of tuckpointing is that it saves money on costly repair bills. Water infiltration and rot are major expenses for homeowners, and a business or commercial building may have to close when water leaks into the interior. Tuckpointing can help prevent this by halting the spread of moisture, thereby protecting the brick structure and saving on expensive repairs.

Tuckpointing is most effective when performed early on in the damage progression. This is why it’s important to get a trained mason or construction expert to inspect your brick building before the mortar starts to deteriorate and requires more extensive repair work. If left untreated, a damaged mortar joint can eventually cause structural damage that could affect the entire brick building.

Masonry is a construction method that uses bricks and stones bound together with cement mortar to build structures such as homes, schools, and other buildings. As with all building types, masonry will deteriorate and need repair over time. If problems are addressed early, they can often be prevented from worsening. This is why annual inspections by a professional masonry repair expert are important.

Cracks are a sign of a problem with masonry and can be caused by several factors. They can be caused by excessive moisture, which can weaken the bricks and mortar or result from aging or wear and tear. The precise location of a crack and the other areas it affects will determine the correct course of action.

Brick and stone will naturally deteriorate over time due to weathering, but this can be speeded up by salt or other chemical additives in the soil where the structure is built. Moisture and water movement within and around a brick structure can also lead to expansion and contraction, which causes the mortar to crack. The best way to prevent this is to ensure that a building is properly waterproofed and to have any issues with the foundations of the structure examined by a masonry professional.

A specialized form of repointing can be used to repair cracked bricks. This involves using a special mortar to fill in the cracks and restore the integrity of the brickwork. The repair material will be matched to the surrounding bricks to ensure no discrepancy in appearance.

In some cases, replacing the mortar or even the bricks may be necessary to fix a crack. This can be particularly the case where the break results from a structural issue, such as a failing lintel in a first-floor window opening, which has become damaged due to the weight it is attempting to support.

This type of crack can usually be repaired by a mason who will use specialist masonry repair products to fill in the damage. The damaged surface will then be refaced with specialist masonry repairs to match the existing texture and color of the brickwork.

While regular masonry repair helps to keep a building intact, there is a chance that some bricks will loosen from their anchor points. It is important to address these issues immediately, especially if they occur on steps or walkways. Loose bricks not only look unsightly, but they can be dangerous. Traditionally, masonry experts recommend resetting the loose brick with mortar mix to ensure it stays in place. However, this can be messy and difficult to mix to the correct consistency. As an alternative, clear silicone sealant can be used as a quick fix for this issue.

Masonry experts note this is an ideal option for those who want to avoid the mess and hassle of repointing or remortgaging. However, the method for doing this will vary based on the material and type of brick involved in the project. First, the area must be thoroughly cleaned. This can be done by blowing or sweeping away the brick debris and dust. Once clean, the room should be misted with water to dampen it. This step is crucial, as dry materials can suck moisture out of the new mortar and prevent it from curing properly.

Next, the existing hole must be swept to remove any loose fragments of brick or mortar. The mason should then use a hammer and chisel to remove any flexible material around the loose brick. If the brick is flexible, it may need to be removed and saved for reuse in another area. The mason should then mist the back of the brick and the surrounding area with water to help it adhere to the new mortar.

Once the mortar is mixed to the appropriate consistency, it can be applied to the existing gap. The mason should use the butt of a pointing trowel to “butter” the bottom and both sides of the brick. Once it is in place, the mason should “tool” the mortar to match the existing joint.

This technique is an effective way to make a loose brick into a permanent and sturdy wall member. This is also a good choice for repairing small sections of a brick structure where replacing the entire section would be cost-prohibitive.

How to Choose an Asphalt Driveway

Frankie Sharp Concrete Contractor , , , ,

When it comes to getting a new driveway, you have several options. One popular choice is Paving Companies Summerville SC.

Asphalt is an attractive and durable paving material that can last many years with proper maintenance. It’s also quick and easy to install. Plus, it’s a good choice for areas with heavy traffic because it absorbs noise pollution and jigglings.

Asphalt is a popular paving material for both residential driveways and roadways. It has a long lifespan and is relatively easy to maintain. The type of asphalt you choose depends on your budget, climate, and other factors. However, there are some key things you should know before committing to asphalt.

First, you must understand how asphalt is made. It is a combination of aggregates bound together with bitumen or another adhesive substance. The mixture is heated before being rolled onto your driveway. The aggregates are commonly sand or small crushed stones. The asphalt must be properly prepared and compacted to ensure longevity.

An asphalt contractor will begin the process by grading the soil. The soil should be sloped toward the grassy areas of your property to avoid pooling water and ponding. A sub-base layer is then put down, followed by a binder layer. The binder layer is usually made of bitumen mixed with oil to make it durable and strong. Finally, the top surface layer is poured and smoothed.

In addition to being cheaper than concrete, an asphalt driveway is also more flexible. This flexibility helps it to resist the freeze-thaw cycles of winter. Concrete, on the other hand, can heave or crack during these extreme temperatures.

Another advantage of asphalt is that it holds up well against salt and is often used to melt snow and ice on the road. While asphalt will crack from exposure to harsh cold weather, these cracks are less noticeable than concrete ones.

Asphalt is also resistant to sunlight, which can bleach concrete. As such, it is a better choice for homeowners who want to protect their vehicles from the sun’s harmful rays.

The best way to prolong the life of your asphalt driveway is to have it regularly inspected and maintained by an experienced paving contractor. This will help to prevent early wear and tear, which can lead to costly repairs. In addition to checking the driveway, a professional can recommend maintenance and repair options. An asphalt driveway properly cared for can last up to fifteen or twenty years.

The size of the driveway plays a significant role in the final cost. Larger drives will require more materials than smaller ones, and labor is also a factor. An experienced paving contractor can provide precise pricing based on the plot and project needs.

An asphalt driveway costs less than a concrete one, but the cost can still add up quickly. It’s a good idea to budget for the entire project, including demolishing an existing driveway and any landscaping that will need to be moved or replaced.

A new asphalt driveway typically costs around $2,932 to $6,568, per Bob Vila, or $7 to $13 per square foot. This is roughly half the cost of a concrete drive.

When choosing a contractor, look for someone with experience and an impressive portfolio of past projects. An established company can offer a competitive price and guarantee quality artistry, which can make all the difference in a smooth, durable finish.

There are a few factors that can affect the total cost of an asphalt driveway, including the amount of base material needed and whether a thicker or thinner layer will be used. The underlying soils also have a major impact on costs, with sandy or gravel-rich dirt needing far less material than clay or loam. An asphalt thickness of two to three inches is standard, but some contractors may recommend a thicker layer if heavy vehicles and equipment are regularly parked on the surface.

Local costs and fees can also increase the cost of an asphalt project, as well as any upgrades or additional services that you want to include. For example, adding curbs and sidewalks will require extra excavation and removal of existing materials, which can significantly add to the overall cost.

Another consideration is the lifespan of an asphalt versus concrete driveway. Asphalt generally lasts 15 to 20 years, while a concrete driveway lasts up to 40 or more. If your asphalt driveway shows signs of deterioration, such as cracking or losing its shine, resurfacing it will help restore and extend its life.

Asphalt is an extremely durable material that can withstand the weight of vehicles and other traffic. It also resists damage from weather changes because it is pliable and can expand and contract without cracking, per the Asphalt Kingdom. It’s not as strong as concrete, however, so if your driveway sees regular heavy traffic from cars and trucks, consider using pavers or another heavier material.

It is possible to make asphalt more durable by incorporating a thicker layer in your driveway, but this requires additional time and money. This step is typically necessary if your driveway hosts large vehicles, such as RVs or large pickup trucks.

A professional contractor can tell you the best thickness for your driveway. Angi estimates that a three-inch layer can support small sedans and coupes for several years, but if you want to accommodate larger vehicles, you should go with a five-inch thickness. This is more expensive, but it will last longer than a thinner layer.

An asphalt driveway is easier to repair than a concrete one, and patched areas blend better with the surrounding surface. This is a big advantage if you’re looking to limit the cost of your home improvement project. However, it’s important to note that if your asphalt is exposed to a lot of sunlight, it can become hot and sticky, leading to more routine maintenance.

The quality of your asphalt will determine how long it lasts. It’s important to choose a company with experience installing and repairing asphalt, and you should ask them how they maintain their equipment and materials. You can also look for an asphalt contractor that uses recycled material to increase the longevity of your new pavement.

When selecting the type of asphalt for your driveway, you should look for a high-temperature grade that can withstand traffic and weather. Low-temperature grades do not meet these demands, and they can be prone to cracking. The TFHRC recommends avoiding additives that decrease the temperature grade of your pavement, as they will oxidize and lose their strength and resilience. These include used frying oil, corn stover residues, and treated swine manure.

Asphalt is a durable material that can withstand the elements, but it is not indestructible. It is important to inspect your driveway regularly to identify and repair small issues before they grow into larger problems. A properly maintained asphalt surface can last up to 20 years before it needs to be repaved or repaired.

A damaged driveway can become a safety hazard for pedestrians and vehicles alike. Cracks, potholes, and uneven surfaces create trip hazards, which can lead to serious injuries if someone trips and falls over them. Likewise, cars may become stuck in the cracks or can get side-swiped by an unsuspecting driver.

In addition to addressing safety concerns, asphalt maintenance is essential for preserving your investment. Regular sealcoating of your driveway helps to protect the pavement from sunlight, water, and chemical pollutants that can deteriorate the asphalt binder. It also helps to maintain the appearance of your driveway, making it look newer and more attractive for longer.

The frequency of sealcoating will depend on your climate and the traffic the driveway receives. Generally, a driveway should be sealed every two to five years. However, if your driveway is constantly exposed to harsh weather conditions and heavy traffic, it might need to be sealed more frequently.

Asphalt can be swept or pressure washed to remove dirt, leaves, and debris that can wear down the surface. It is recommended that you clean your asphalt driveway at least twice a year to prevent the build-up of these materials and keep it looking its best.

Unlike concrete, asphalt is less prone to surface flaking. This damage is usually the result of improper installation, overuse of de-icing salts, or poor preparation of the paving mixture. Asphalt can also be more easily repaired, with many repairs that can be done as a weekend DIY project for the average homeowner.

Whether you own a business, run a residential community, or manage an apartment complex, having a well-maintained asphalt driveway is critical for the image of your property.