Are You Window Shopping?

Are You Window Shopping?

We live in a world that seems to get more complex by the minute.  Even the most straightforward purchase can make your head spin.  Making the right decision about which windows are the best fit for you and your home is not always an easy one.  The good news is that there is no need to tackle this all by your lonesome.  If you are in the market for new or replacement windows, Auben Residential can aide you in making the right choice.

 Windows should be replaced every 25 years.

Finding an experienced and honest company to install your windows should be your first order of business.  Once you have managed that, you will be in a much better place to choose the right windows for your home.  There are many considerations that go into a good window.  It is a combination of technologies, not any single feature that reaps the biggest rewards.  You can expect to an energy savings anywhere from 30% to 50% if you replace all the windows in your home with high-efficiency models.

According to the U.S Department of Energy, energy loss attributed to windows accounts for about 25% of the annual heating and cooling costs for the average American home.  Reduce or eliminate that loss with the right fit of windows, and it is easy to see why windows are the perfect example of a home improvement that can end up paying for itself, and then some, as time rolls by.

Having said all that…this is where Auben Residential comes in.  Planning for your home improvement project doesn’t have to make you break out in a cold sweat.  We can help you save a lot of money and enhance the look and value of your home.

Call for your free home inspection today at 952-657-2865

Let our years of experience work for you!

If You Are Tired Of High Energy Bills, Check Out The New Materials for Roof Insulation

Are You Tired Of High Energy Bills?

Materials for Roof Insulation

It is essential to check your roof insulation as well as the basement walls, floors, exteriors, and crawl spaces to determine if it meets the recommended levels in your locality.  Insulation is typically measures using R-value (its capability to resist heat transfer).  The R-value you should have should be based on the climatic conditions in your area as well as its costs.
There is a wide range of insulation materials but the most common ones include rigid foam boards, loose-fill, batts, and rolls.  Each kind is most suitable for certain parts of the house.  For example, the rigid foam boards are lightweight while providing sufficient support.  Because of its benefits, it can be used in confined spaces such as the basement, exterior walls, concrete slabs, and foundation falls.

On the other hand, the loose-fill insulation is composed of cellulose, fiberglass, or rock wool so it is used in common walls and attic.  The batts (also composed of rock wool or fiberglass) are used between the joists of the floors and ceiling. Meanwhile, the rolls are laid out on the floor.

These materials provide adequate roof insulation.  By taking advantage of these, you can ensure that you and your family will remain safe, relaxed, and secure in your home whether it is summer or winter.

Call your local roofing contractor for more information on the proper insulation for your Minnesota home. Contact Auben Residential today to schedule your next roofing inspection at 952-657-2865

Tax credits for insulation: Federal tax credits are available for adding insulation to existing homes.

Read this piece to learn more.

Free Download: PDF (420 Kb)

More valuable information: Click here for R-value recommendations for optimal energy savings and comfort.

Roofing Choices For Your Minnesota Home

Roofing Choices For Your Minnesota Home

A roof can be the most distinguishing feature of a house or building, with the ability to make or break the desired appearance.  It will also be your main source of insulation and temperature control, and protection against weather damage and the sun.  Because of this, designing your roof style, choosing materials, drawing up framework and incorporating features such as drainage, coatings, vents, insulation and skylights, should all be planned and carried through precisely.

Because all roof types are tailored to meet certain needs, it is worth learning the different roofing styles available, and how they differ in shape, detail and design.  In addition, the choice in roof style can heavily influence the cost of your building or renovation plans, as roofs are made from a wide variety of materials and substances.  Auben Residential can advise you on the most suitable and cost-effective roofing designs for your home and/or business that will suit your taste and budget.

We will help you choose the right solution for your home using premium-roofing materials.  As a GAF/ELK Certified Installer, we use an integrated GAF/ELK roofing system to provide superior, long-term protection.

Contact Auben Residentialtoday at 952-657-2865 for all your roofing needs!

Choosing The Right Asphalt Roofing For Your Minnesota Home

Choosing The Right Asphalt Roofing For Your Minnesota Home
Part II
Asphalt Architectural Roof Shingles

Architectural shingles, also known as laminated or three-dimensional shingles, are premium asphalt-based roofing shingles.  Since the first commercially successful asphalt shingle was produced in 1953, manufacturers have endeavored to create shingles that could rival the texture and visual interest of wood, tile, and slate roofing.

Given that an asphalt shingle is essentially a flat, asphalt-saturated cellulose or fiberglass mat coated with mineral granules, the job of making it look natural, textured, and three-dimensional has been a challenge for roofing manufacturers.

Three-dimensional, laminated shingles were first introduced in the 1970s.   They were built up from two or more layers of material sandwiched together.  The surface granules were colored to imitate shadow patterns.

In recent years, refinements of the three-dimensional shingle have resulted in a new generation of high-quality asphalt roofing products with distinctive, often dramatic, appearances.  With these advancements came a new name: architectural shingles.

The top overlay of these shingles is often notched, cut in a saw-tooth pattern, and/or offset for definition and interest.  Because of their extra thickness, these shingles weigh considerably more than conventional asphalt-based shingles and have longer warranties.  Weights run up to about 430 pounds per square (100 square feet of roof area).

If you are going to be installing a new roof in the near future, architectural roof shingles will often be a great choice.  They are heavier, will have a longer lifespan, faster installation times and a better fit ensuring that your roof will be of an overall higher standard when the work is complete.  These shingles will often come with a longer warranty than organic ones will and this can be up to 50 years.  Your final choice will depend on your budget and the area you live in along with your personal thoughts about how each option looks visually.

Contact your local roofing contractor to help you choose the right roofing material for your home.

Contact Auben Residential at 952-657-2865 for more information on your roofing needs

 

Choosing The Right Asphalt Roofing For Your Minnesota Home

Choosing The Right Asphalt Roofing For Your Minnesota Home Part I

Asphalt Shingle Roofing

Nearly four-fifths of American homes have asphalt shingle roofs.    The two basic types are composition and fiberglass-base shingles. Composition shingles have a core of organic “felt” made from wood and paper fibers. Fiberglass-base shingles have a core of man made fiberglass matting. Both composition and fiberglass-base shingles are soaked in asphalt, but the fiberglass base shingles are more fire-resistant than the organic ones.  Asphalt shingles have mineral granules embedded in their surfaces to offer protection against wear and the sun’s ultraviolet radiation.  When you find these granules washing away it’s a sign that you need to repair or replace your shingles. Four types of asphalt shingles are manufactured: 1) strip shingles 2) laminated shingles 3) interlocking shingles 4) large individual shingles Strip shingles are the conventional type.  They’re made in both standard and metric sizes. Those made for the American market are 12 inches wide by 36 inches long. Of these, “three tab” shingles are the most common. With these, a cutout distinguishes each tab, making it look like an individual 12-inch-wide shingle.  Depending on how you align these tabs, you can create a variety of patterns of shadow and light on the roof. Laminated shingles, also known as architectural or three-dimensional shingles, vary in the size, number, spacing, and thickness of the tabs.  They have more character and visual depth than standard strip shingles. Interlocking shingles, excellent for heavy-wind areas, are designed to fasten to one another. Large individual shingles are generally used in specialty situations.  Their shapes tend to be either hexagonal or rectangular and they don’t have tabs. The portion of a shingle that shows is called “exposure,” and the lower edge is referred to as the “butt.”  Shingles come in a variety of weights.  Generally speaking, the heavier the shingles, the longer they last. Choosing from the wide assortment of available colors, textures, patterns, and weights can be daunting.  Most homeowners prefer premium-weight shingles, which may weigh 430 pounds per square (a 10-by-10-foot roof area), compared with standard shingles at about 230 pounds per square.  Because premium-weight shingles are more three-dimensional, they do a better job of mimicking the texture of real wood shingles. Contact your local roofing contractor to help you choose the right roofing material for your home.  Even though traditional asphalt shingled roofs have been around a long time, it doesn’t mean that yours has to look outdated.   In fact, if designed the right way, your shingled roof can be sensational and especially unique just for your home. Contact Auben Residential at 952-657-2865 for more information on your roofing needs Check back in a few days for Choosing The Right Asphalt Roofing For Your Minnesota Home Part II. We will be looking at Asphalt Architectural Roof Shingles

What Are The Different Types of Replacement Windows?

Finding The Replacement Windows That Meets Your Needs As Well As Your Personal Tastes

When looking for replacement windows, one has a wide variety of windows to choose from.  There are many types of windows that vary in style and look.  Before you select a replacement window, it is important to compare all of the various types to find the replacement window that meets your needs and personal tastes.

Below is a list of the different types of replacement windows:

1. Bay: Air circulation is achieved opening the sides of the window.  The windows many views permit the light to come in from various angles.  Many people use them in bedrooms, kitchens, and living rooms.

2. Double Hung: This type of replacement window is very practical and can fit well in any room.  They allow for good ventilation and the bottom of the window stays closed while the top of the window can be open.  These types of windows are usually found in bedrooms and kitchens.

3. Awning: These types of windows are used in rooms that require privacy, but still allow some light in the room.  They are highly flexible and can be placed in a number of different places. They can be opened a little bit to allow a little air to come into the room.

4. Hopper: These types of windows are normally used in basements.   They have a tilt design when they are opened.  Because they tilt, it allows air to easily come into the room.

5. Casement: This type of window is designed to open outward which allows for good air ventilation.  The casement cranks open instead of sliding up and down.  They are a very energy efficient window.  As well, the casements are difficult to break through.

6. Jalousie: Also called louvered windows, jalousie windows are constructed of glass slats like a glass shutter set in metal clips which allows them to closed and opened in together.  They help to make a room cooler.  They are rotated by hand to close and open the overlapping panels so one can mange how much light and air enters the room.

7. Picture: This type of window adds charm to a room.  They allow for a great view of the outdoors.  They also provide a lot of lighting in a room.  Many people will install these windows in rooms that do not have much light.

When it comes to purchasing a replacement window, consumers now have wide variety of choices.  As well as providing ventilation and light, they add character, uniqueness, and quality to a home.  Whatever replacement window type you choose, it will not benefit the home if it is not properly installed. 

Contact Auben Residential today for expert replacement window installation at 952-657-2865

What Does the Energy Efficient Window Ratings Label Tell You?

What Does the Energy Efficient Window Ratings Label Tell You?

It’s All In The Label

ENERGY STAR climate zones.  National Fenestration Rating Council.  U-Factors.  Solar Heat Gain Coefficient.  Sometimes it can be confusing trying to understand the label on a window or door product. And when you need to know if a window’s energy-efficiency level will qualify for the U.S. tax credits, it’s incredibly important.  For homeowners concerned about all the specifics of a window label, below is some information about a Pella® Designer Series® window to use as a guide.

Look for the label; This helps you determine the product’s energy performance.

1)      NFRC-certified products — reputable window and door manufacturers rate and certify products according to National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) requirements.

2)      U-Factors — the lower the U-Factor, the better the window insulates.

3)      Solar Heat Gain Coefficient — this number tells how effective the product is at blocking the sun’s radiant heat. The lower the Solar Heat Gain Coefficient, the less solar heat the window allows into your home.

4)      Manufacturer reports “whole product energy performance”, the best way to know how your window will perform —versus only reporting performance of the glass.

5)      Window & Door Manufacturers Association (WDMA) Hallmark Certification — indicates the product has met WDMA air, water and structural performance tests and is a mark of excellence in the industry.

Contact Auben Residential today at 952-657-2865 for a free consultation on how we can transform your home with new or replacement windows.

It’s all about savings.  Saving money, saving energy, and saving our environment.  The ENERGYSTAR label was created to help consumers identify the most energy efficient products on the market.

Fact Sheet for selecting energy efficient windows in Minnesota

Are You Window Shopping?

Are You  Shopping For Energy Efficient Windows?

We live in a world that seems to get more complex by the minute.  Even the most straightforward purchase can make your head spin.  Making the right decision about which windows are the best fit for you and your home is not always an easy one.  The good news is that there is no need to tackle this all by your lonesome.  If you are in the market for new or replacement windows, Auben Residential can aide you in making the right choice.

Windows should be replaced every 25 years.

Finding an experienced and honest company to install your windows should be your first order of business.  Once you have managed that, you will be in a much better place to choose the right windows for your home.  There are many considerations that go into a good window.  It is a combination of technologies, not any single feature that reaps the biggest rewards.  You can expect to an energy savings anywhere from 30% to 50% if you replace all the windows in your home with high-efficiency models.

According to the U.S Department of Energy, energy loss attributed to windows accounts for about 25% of the annual heating and cooling costs for the average American home.  Reduce or eliminate that loss with the right fit of windows, and it is easy to see why windows are the perfect example of a home improvement that can end up paying for itself, and then some, as time rolls by.

Having said all that…this is where Auben Residential comes in.  Planning for your home improvement project doesn’t have to make you break out in a cold sweat.  We can help you save a lot of money and enhance the look and value of your home.

Call Auben Residential for your free home inspection today at 952-657-2865

Let our 10 years of experience work for you!

Want To Save On Your Energy Bills This Winter? Insulate!

Are You Tired Of High Energy Bills?

Proper insulation for your home will ensure superior, year-round protection.

Roof insulation is an often-overlooked part of the home building process.  But it is important components that will help keep your home warm during winter and cool during the summertime. Checking your roof insulation is highly recommended if you want to live in a comfortable and relaxing home environment.  Another benefit of an insulating system is its cost-effectiveness. It can actually significantly reduce your energy bill because it aids in keeping the room temperature constant.

Good roof insulation should be composed of different components that work together seamlessly.  The materials need to be utilized with superior construction technique for optimum performance.  If this requirement is met, you can expect excellent thermal performance that will protect your house from moisture and air infiltration.
As an end result, you improve the health and comfort of your family while reducing your energy needs by as much as 30 percent.  Homes that have sufficient roof insulation save money for the homeowner every single month.  Aside from the roof, it is also recommended for you to insulate your floors, walls, basement, and even the crawl spaces for best results.

Materials for Roof Insulation
It is essential to check your roof insulation as well as the basement walls, floors, exteriors, and crawl spaces to determine if it meets the recommended levels in your locality.  Insulation is typically measures using R-value (its capability to resist heat transfer).  The R-value you should have should be based on the climatic conditions in your area as well as its costs.
There is a wide range of insulation materials but the most common ones include rigid foam boards, loose-fill, batts, and rolls.  Each kind is most suitable for certain parts of the house.  For example, the rigid foam boards are lightweight while providing sufficient support.  Because of its benefits, it can be used in confined spaces such as the basement, exterior walls, concrete slabs, and foundation falls.

On the other hand, the loose-fill insulation is composed of cellulose, fiberglass, or rock wool so it is used in common walls and attic.  The batts (also composed of rock wool or fiberglass) are used between the joists of the floors and ceiling.  Meanwhile, the rolls are laid out on the floor.

These materials provide adequate roof insulation.  By taking advantage of these, you can ensure that you and your family will remain safe, relaxed, and secure in your home whether it is summer or winter.

Call your local roofing contractor for more information on the proper insulation for your Minnesota home. Contact Auben Residential today to schedule your next roofing inspection at 952-657-2865

Tax credits for insulation: Federal tax credits are available for adding insulation to existing homes.

Read this piece to learn more.

Free Download: PDF (420 Kb)

More valuable information: Click here for R-value recommendations for optimal energy savings and comfort.

Tighten Up Your Home This Winter With Insulation

Insulating Your Home

Properly insulated homes can use 30 to 50 less energy than homes without insulation.  Lining your “thermal envelope” – adding materials that do not readily allow heat to leak through your walls, ceilings, floors, from around your home’s foundations and its ductwork – saves energy by keeping heat in during the winter and keeping heat out during the summer.

The effectiveness of a piece of insulation is measured by its R-value.  The R-value in insulation designates its resistance to heat flow.  The higher the R-value, the greater the insulating ability – the more effective it is.  Generally speaking, each time you double the R-value of insulation, you cut your conduction heat loss in that area in half.

Adding insulation to an uninsulated attic is the most cost-effective, energy-saving measure you can do.  Most older houses were built with little or no insulation.  In more moderate climates, the minimum recommended R-value is R-30 for an attic, R-11 for walls, R-19 for raised floors, and R-4.2 for ductwork.

Putting It In Place

You can greatly increase the energy efficiency and comfort of a home by installing insulation with an R-value higher than the minimum requirements.  But to truly enjoy the benefits of insulation, it must be installed correctly.  Compressing it or leaving gaps through which air can flow can cut insulation’s effectiveness in half.

When insulating your attic, it is important not to clog the attic vents under the eaves.  Keep air circulating freely above the insulation by installing baffles (typically, a piece of fiberglass batt placed several inches away from the vent).

For fire safety, keep insulation clear of heat producing devices such as doorbell transformers and recessed lights, flues or vents from furnaces, water heaters, fireplaces, and exhaust fans.

1. In unfinished attic spaces, insulate between and over the floor joists to seal off living spaces below

Places to Insulate

1A attic access door

1. In finished attic rooms with or without dormer, insulate …

2A between the studs of “knee” walls;
2B between the studs and rafters of exterior walls and roof;
2C ceilings with cold spaces above;
2D extend insulation into joist space to reduce air flows.

1. All exterior walls, including …

3A walls between living spaces and unheated garages, shed roofs, or storage areas;
3B foundation walls above ground level

3C foundation walls in heated basements, full wall either interior or exterior

1. Floors above cold spaces, such as vented craw spaces and unheated garages.  Also insulate

4A any portion of the floor in a room that is cantilevered beyond the exterior wall below
4B slab floors built directly on the ground
4C as an alternative to floor insulation, foundation walls of unvented crawl spaces
4D extend insulation into joist space to reduce air flows

1. Band joists

6    Replacement or storm windows and caulk and seal around all windows and doors

• Well-insulated attics, crawl spaces, storage areas, and other enclosed cavities should be ventilated to prevent excess moisture build-up
• For new construction, slab on grade insulation should be installed to the extent required by building codes, or greater
• The climate you live in will determine the amount of insulation necessary for your home. View a map of the recommended levels of roof insulation needed for your home.

If you think you are one of the many homeowners in Minnesota whose house is under insulated, call Auben Residential to schedule a your next roof inspection today at 952-657-2865.