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.

Architectural Shingles Can Increase The Value Of Your Home

Architectural Shingles Provide Distinct Design Options

Architectural shingles, also known as laminated or dimensional shingles, are popular because they are a heavy product, providing additional durability and protection to a home. These shingles can be applied without adding additional structural support to your house, which is sometimes necessary when applying other heavy roofing materials.

• Architectural shingles also provide distinct designs, which are visually attractive to homeowners and potential buyers  Here’s a quick look at architectural shingles.
• Architectural shingles are a type of specialty asphalt shingle typically made with a heavier base than traditional asphalt shingles.  The base of this roofing material is made using organic materials.  Architectural shingles are also coated with special granules to add texture.
• Material Durability
  Roofing composed of architectural shingles usually lasts up to 40 years and often come with a lifetime warranty.  However, if you live in a region that experiences harsh weather conditions, the lifespan may be shorter.  Shingles containing materials such as copper typically have the longest life.
• They have the ability to withstand harsh weather. The strongest materials are designed to withstand winds up to 120 mph.  They will weather intense hailstorms and other extreme conditions.
  • Architectural and designer shingles are thicker, longer lasting, and create a beautiful dimensional look that will increase the value of your home.

As with any type of roofing, unless you have experience and all the proper tools, this is a job best left to the roofing professionals.   They are skilled in installing dimensional shingles and have the experience to do the job quickly and accurately.

Contact Auben Residential today at 952-657-2865. We have the experience to install all types of roofing materials!

What Is A Designer Shingle?

Architectural and Designer Shingles

Dimensional shingles provide an opportunity to customize your roof to fit with the style of your home.  Dimensional shingles, also known as architectural shingles, are thicker than other shingles and are used by many homeowners to achieve a unique appearance.  These shingles are also very durable and can last for 40 years or more.

Dimensional shingles are constructed by fusing together two asphalt shingles.  This provides a more three-dimensional appearance.  Sometimes this resembles a shake roof, but dimensional shingles have better fire resistant qualities.  Also, the material is thicker and provides added strength to the roof.

• Dimensional shingles are extremely durable.  They are designed to withstand extreme weather conditions, including wind, ice and snow.  This material is also heavier and longer lasting than composite roofs.  When using dimensional shingles, you do not need to make structural improvements on your home, unlike with some heavy roofs.
• Dimensional shingles allow you to achieve a shake wood effect without the fire hazard. In fact, some regions do not even allow shake roofs to be built because of the safety risk. A dimensional shingled roof is a better option for protecting your home against fire.
• If you decide to install this type of roof, make sure to keep up with moss buildup.  Dimensional shingles are more prone than other types of roofs to have this issue.  You will want to make sure the roof has adequate venting to reduce moisture buildup.  Most roofing companies offer maintenance services to keep your roof in good condition.
• Most dimensional shingles come with a warranty that will guarantee the product for 20 or more years.  Some of these warranties have specific conditions. For example, the homeowner may be required to have regular maintenance and moss removal on the roof.

As with any type of roofing, unless you have experience and all the proper tools, this is a job best left to the roofing professionals.   They are skilled in installing dimensional shingles and have the experience to do the job quickly and accurately.

Contact Auben Residential today at 952-657-2865. We have the experience to install all types of roofing materials!

Does Your Minnesota Home Need More Insulation?

Do I Need Insulation?

Ask yourself these questions and if you answer yes to more than one, you probably need to add insulation to your home.

• Do you have ice dams, icicles or areas of your roof that the snow melts quicker than others do?
• Are your energy bills excessively high?
• Do you notice drastic temperature differences in attic area compared with the rest of your home?
• Does your furnace seem to run too much in the winter?
• Does your air conditioner run too much in the summer?
• Do you have problems with the condition of your roof such as curling shingles?

Early detection of leaks and roof system failures make it possible for us to repair and extend the life of a roof system.   A lot of money was spent on roofs a couple years ago when we all experienced heavy snow and freezing temperatures.  What if that money was spent unwisely?  What if all you needed to do was check for insulation and ventilation?  Isn’t it worth the 15-minute inspection?

With the extreme temperatures we get in Minnesota, proper insulation is crucial to an effective, long-lasting roof.  In summer, proper insulation can prevent superheated air to build up in your attic, which can lead to higher energy costs and destroy your shingles.  In winter, proper insulation can prevent ice dams, buckling of shingles and attic condensation.  Proper insulation for your home will ensure superior, year-round protection.

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.

So, You Have Decided To Give Your Roof A Facelift!

So, Your House Needs A Facelift!

You have decided to give your roofing a facelift. Unless you know which roofing materials will be right for your purpose, you are likely to end up in a state of confusion.  Among all the kinds of roofing materials available, it is metal roofing, slate roofing and tile roofing that have been found to be the choice of most other than the asphalt shingles.  Asphalt shingles are certainly not where it all ends.  For the curious, there is an entire array of roofing materials ranging from cement tiles and wood shakes to the traditional slate and ceramic tiles.  However, for roofs with a low-slope, many consider the high-tech membranes made from polymers.  So, while making a decision on your part may seem a difficult one at first, doing some search on all the kinds of roofing materials available might bring you the best of all worlds in terms of durability, appearance, practicality and price.

• Metal roofing: Things have changed and so has metal roofing.  It is not just to cover a dingy shack anymore.  Steel (including stainless), aluminum and copper are the materials preferred most today because of their durability as well as aesthetic values.  The cost can be a little hefty on the wallet, but if you are to keep your house for a long period, metal roofing is your dear pal to save you from a heavy rain or a hailstorm.

• Slate roofing: There is no doubt that slate roofs are durable roofing materials, but there are certain variables that act as the determinants of the longevity of a slate roofing. Among these, the type/origin of the slate comes first, followed by the style of the roof and lastly, the climate.  If a roof is not structurally designed for slate roofing, the rafters and the trusses can give away to within no time.  However, these are the most stylish and sophisticated among the roofing materials variety and also the costliest.  The maintenance is also high for the slate roofs.  They need thorough yearly and post-storm inspections.  The good news is, as a GAF/ELK installer, we can offer annual service contracts.  And with proper maintenance, your slate roof can have an indefinite life.

• Tile roofing: If variety is what you want, then tile roofing is for you.  Shapes and colors know no boundaries when it comes to tile roofing.  On the subject of the materials, it stretches from clay to concrete, covering everything in between.  Rich tones, elegant styling, beautiful aesthetics and fireproofing – all combine to increase the value of any home with tile roofing. But tiles are weighty stuff, so without strong rafters and trusses, be prepared for an early burial.

Contact Auben Residential today at 952-657-2865 for all your roof installation or roof repair needs!  We will help you choose the right solution for your home using premium roofing materials.

Don’t forget to ask about our referral program.  If you recommend Auben to someone who uses our services, we’ll give you $150 as a thank you once their job is completed.  Refer us three times and receive $500.

Slate Roofing Can Add A Touch Of Prestige and Elegance To Your Home

Slate Roofs Have A History Of Adding Prestige and Elegance To Any Home

As one of the premier roofing materials, slate roofs have a history of adding prestige and elegance to homes.

Not only has slate been revered for its appearance, it is also highly recommended due to the fact that slate roofs are extremely durable and weather resistant.

Remember, it is important to regularly check your slate roofs for any signs of damage, wear, or tear.   If any of the slate needs to be repaired, it is recommended that you have a professional roofing contractor fix those immediately.  When slate becomes brittle, it can easily be replaced.  In fact, when slate is properly maintained, it has a life span of nearly 100 years.

• One of the things to consider about using slate is the fact that it is very expensive. So, if you choose to install a slate roof or if your home already has slate boards, it is important that you invest the money, time, and care in maintenance and repair.  A good preventative roofing maintenance plan is the best way to ensure that your slate roof remains durable and strong.
• Since slate is expensive, it is not recommended that homeowners attempt to work on slate roofs themselves.  It is important to have the roof inspected regularly and to be on the look out for any signs of deterioration.  Some of these include loose nails, deterioration of nails and slate boards that are slipping.
• When hiring a roofing contractor to install or repair slate roofing, it is very important to hire a roofer that has proven experience working with slate.  There are many roofing contractors who specialize in slate roofing, and it is best to use an experienced roofer due to the high cost of slate.  You should also make sure that your roofing contractor checks the condition of the wood under the slate and makes certain that it is solid.

• Often times, slate will withstand extreme conditions without damage, but the underlying wood may begin to deteriorate.   This will need to be repaired if it is found to be damaged.  Because the expense associated with slate roofing is high, you will find that you should only use qualified and experienced roofing professionals to ensure that your slate roof is maintained to increase its longevity.

Slate is the most durable and beautiful roofing option available.  It is also the most expensive.  But GAF’s exclusive Tru-Slate® shingles put a genuine slate roof within reach.  Now you can enjoy the unique look of real slate for nearly the same price as imitation.

Contact Auben Residential today at 952-657-2865 to install or repair slate roofing on your home.

Understanding Your Roof Warranty

Roof Warranties

Prior to hiring a roofer, you want to make sure that you discuss what type of warranty is included.  New roofs are big ticket items that can cost thousands of dollars.  Therefore, it is imperative that you select an experienced roofing company or roofing contractor that will provide a warranty that will endure as long as your roof. Some roofs may last up to forty years and having a warranty on your roof can save you money as well as headaches throughout the life of your roof.   Always check with the roofing contractor and determine what type of warranty they offer before making your final selection.  Also keep in mind that most roofers offer a “full” warranty on new roofs but a “limited” warranty when they are only performing a roof repair or patch.

There are several things to look for when reviewing roofing warranties.  First, you will want to make certain that your roof is covered in the event of any defects in the materials.  Fortunately, it is rare for a new roof to encounter problems, but your warranty will offer you peace of mind and the assurance that if something were to go wrong, you would be adequately protected.

The materials that the roofing contractor uses for your project will come with a manufacturer’s warranty.  Make sure that you know what the warranty is for the material that the roofer is using before you enter into a contract.  You may find that you prefer to use a different material that has a better warranty than the one the roofer may be offering you.  For this reason, many people prefer to use materials that come from reputable manufacturers.

In addition to the manufacturer’s warranty, the roofer or roofing company should also provide you with a warranty in case anything happens to your new roof. You should look for a roofer or roofing company that has been in business for several years.  This will help lessen the chance that the roofer will go out of business before your warranty expires.  If the roofing contractor is out of business, your warranty will become void.  By choosing your roofing contractor carefully and choosing materials that come with extended warranties, you can help protect yourself, your home and your new roof.

Contact Auben Residential today at 952-657-2865 for all your roofing needs!  When we replace a roof, we do what’s best, not what’s easiest.  We are a factory trained and certified GAF-ELK Master Elite residential roofing contractor in the Twin Cities area.  Only 2% of roofing contractors have been awarded this title.  We offer superior protection for your peace of mind and warranties backed by GAF-ELK, America’s largest roofing manufacturer.

What Are The Signs Your Roof Shingles Need Replacing?

Do Your Roof Shingles Need Replacing?

What Are The Signs Of An Aging Shingle?

Everyone hopes that a roof lasts forever, but as with all things, roof shingles will age.  One thing to remember, however, is the fact that not all shingles will age at the same pace.  Different shingles have different life spans and the best way to assess how long your shingles will last is to check with the manufacturer’s warranty. For instance, if your warranty lasts for fifteen years, then you may want to begin checking for serious wear and tear around that time.  However, to truly keep your roof in prime condition, you should have your roof inspected by your local Minnesota roofing contractor at least twice a year.

When shingles become old or begin to show signs of aging, you may notice that they begin to crack, curl or become loose.  They may in fact even break off.  You should never ignore these signs or put them off. When you begin to see signs of aging in your shingles, you should contact your local Minnesota roofing contractor and have the roof assessed.  Putting off roof repairs to a later date can cause many expensive repairs in the long run.  It is always best to make roof repairs as soon as you notice the problems.  Aging shingles are no exception to the rule.

Contact Auben Residential today at 952-657-2865 for all of your roof repair needs!
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.