Restoration Dos and Don'ts

Do research your contractor through the Better Business Bureau, Home Advisor and elsewhere on the internet.
Do hire a contractor who is licensed. The state of Minnesota requires all roofing contractors to be licensed.
Do make your contractor aware of all problems you are having with your home (ice dams, ceiling damage, water coming through windows, peeling paint under your eaves, etc.).
Don't pay a contractor 100 percent of the funds up front. Reputable contractors ask for a down payment to begin work and final payment on completion of work. We require 1/2 down at contract signing and the remainder upon completion of the project.
Don't forget to have a city inspector sign off on the building permit. This will ensure installation work meets state building codes.

Roofing Questions:

Q. How long does it take to replace a roof?

A: The average 2,000-square-foot home can have a roof replaced in one or two days.

Q. Why do I need a permit to have my roof replaced?

A. Every city requires a permit to ensure that the underlayment materials are inspected by the city prior to shingle installation. City inspectors also conduct a final inspection to make sure the roof meets state building codes. The purpose of this process is to protect your home and you, the homeowner.

Q. Why should I have my home inspected after a severe storm involving strong winds and hail?

A. It is wise to have your home inspected after a severe storm to ensure water is not seeping in. If you have damage to your roof, siding, or gutters, it is important that a claim is filed in a timely fashion, because most insurance companies only cover damage for up to two years after a loss. Midwest Exteriors MN will be happy to provide a free roofing consultation after a severe storm.

Siding Questions:

Q. How can I tell if my siding needs to be replaced?

A. There are many signs that indicate your siding needs to be replaced, including:

Wavy siding or swelling
Paint or caulk failure
Mold or dry rot
Separation of seams
Moisture inside of your home

If you ignore these signs, you run the risk of water intrusion, mold, wet insulation, and damage to the physical structure of your home.

Q. Does vinyl siding fade?

A .Yes it does. Darker siding will fade faster than lighter colors. Our experienced team can provide guidance for how various colors and products hold up to sun, wind, rain, and hail.

Gutter Questions:

Q. Why do I need gutters on my home?

A. Gutters collect water from the roof and discharge it away from the foundation, preventing water intrusion into your home. Gutters also protect your landscape from erosion.

Q. Why should I have leaf protection on my gutters?

A. Leaf protection, also known as gutter guards or a gutter protection system, keeps debris from entering your gutters and downspouts. When you see water pouring over the top of your gutters, it usually means your gutters or downspouts are clogged, and thus cannot direct the water flow away from your foundation.

Q. How do I know what type of leaf protection I need?

A. The type of gutter protection system you need will depend on what types of trees you have in your yard. Our team of experts will help you identify the best system after thoroughly inspecting your property.

Q. How do I know if my gutters need to be replaced?

A. Inspect how your gutter system functions during a storm. If water is leaking at joints or dripping behind the gutters, they probably need to be replaced.

Claim Questions:

Q. Why should I involve a contractor with the insurance claim process?

A. Midwest Exteriors MN will act as your advocate when working with an insurance claim. The insurance company’s incentive is to resolve claims as quickly and inexpensively as possible. This may not be in your best interest.