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At K & P Exteriors, the safety and comfort of our clients and team is our top priority. Read on to learn more about the procedures we’ve implemented to help stop the spread of COVID-19: 

In Our Office

Our team continues to work hard to deliver the service and professionalism you deserve while implementing safety protocols in accordance with the Center for Disease Control (CDC), the World Health Organization (WHO), and state health guidelines. 

Our office is operating at a capacity of 50% or less, with employees telecommuting where possible. Any staff who feel ill or have potentially been exposed to COVID-19 are instructed to self-quarantine and return to work only after they have been cleared. 

Masks are worn by all employees, both in the office and on the job site, and daily temperature checks will be taken. All personnel, subcontractors, and customers are required to maintain proper social distancing of at least six feet from one another.

On The Job Site

In addition to the precautions laid out above, we’re implementing on-site training (called Toolbox Talks) to spread awareness, provide accurate information, and ensure our teams can follow the best practices laid out by the CDC. 

We continue to work closely with our vendors and trade partners, to maximize our services with limited resources. Emergency work will be given priority—please be patient as we schedule non-emergency service requests. 

How You Can Help

We sincerely appreciate your patience and continued support during these times. If you are coming to see us in-office, please self-screen before entering. Reschedule your appointment if you answer YES to any of the following: 

• Is anyone in your home currently sick, or self-quarantined? 
• Has anyone in your home been in direct contact with anyone with the COVID-19 virus? 
• Are there any other risks for COVID-19 in your home, such as recent travel? 

We’ll send you a service confirmation/reminder via email or phone 24 hours before your appointment. If you are not feeling well, please let us know as soon as possible and we will reschedule. Our team reserves the right to reschedule appointments if noticeable symptoms are apparent. 

We take the threat of COVID-19 seriously, and we’re committed to protecting the health of our customers and associates. If you have questions, or you need to reschedule your appointment, please call us at (303) 853-0072. Together, we can help keep our community safe.

Gutters work to divert rainwater away from your roof, siding, and foundation. Keeping your gutters clean and well-maintained can help prevent water and pests from getting into your home. Here are some tips on cleaning your gutters: 

How To Clean Your Gutters

You will need a ladder, long garden hose, protective gloves, and a plastic trowel or scoop (metal may damage your gutters). A pressure washer or leaf blower may make the job easier, but do not use these awkward tools on a ladder—use an extension kit.

• Step One: Starting at the downspout, remove loose and large debris with your hands. Scoop out any additional debris with the plastic trowel. 
• Step Two: Flush your gutters with water from your hose, starting at the end opposite the downspout. Keep an eye on the water coming from the downspout—if it’s just a trickle, you have a clog. 
• Step Three: Remove any clogs with a high-pressure stream of water from your garden hose. Don’t forget to remove the debris from your gutters, or it will cause another clog.

Proper Ladder Safety

It’s essential to practice proper ladder safety when cleaning your gutters. Keep these tips in mind, and consider hiring a professional if you feel uncomfortable, or if your roof is very high.

• Make sure your roof and gutters are dry before cleaning and do not rest your ladder on an unstable surface like wet mud. 
• Do not clean your gutters alone—ask a neighbor or family member to hold the ladder and spot you. 
• Never climb higher than the second-last rung, and always maintain three points of contact on the ladder.
• Do not lean while on a ladder. If debris is out of reach, climb down and reposition.
• Be mindful of overhead powerlines, especially when transporting the ladder.
• Resist the temptation to walk on your roof. Shingles are slippery, and leaning downhill (in the direction of your gutters) will significantly increase your risk of falling.

While you’re cleaning your gutters, keep an eye on their condition. Cracked or split gutters will be less effective at diverting rainwater. Heavy debris, including snow and ice, can cause gutters to sag and pull away from your home. If your gutters need replacing, the team at K & P Exteriors can help. We’re happy to provide a fair estimate at no cost. Visit our website or call (303) 853-0072 to learn more.

Skylights are a great way to add natural light to your home, but there are a few things to consider before having one installed. Read on to learn more: 

Where Will It Go On Your Roof? 

Your roof is a complex system of beams and boards that work together to support the outer layers. Skylights can only be installed between rafters so as not to compromise your roof’s structural integrity. The sloping angle and direction your roof is facing will also play a role in where you install your skylight. For example, a north-facing skylight receives consistent light all year round. If you have a leaf-shedding tree in your yard, installing a skylight in its shadow will give you direct sunlight in the winter, and cool shade in the summer. 

Choose An Energy-Efficient Model

Skylights can increase your air conditioning and heating costs, so it’s important to choose an energy-efficient model. Today’s manufacturers use various coatings to reduce UV rays, and some even include improved insulation to reduce heat loss in the winter. Look for a skylight with a “Low-E” coating, made with tempered, double-paned glass. Adding a movable cover either inside or outside your home can also reduce the amount of heat that builds up in your room.

Vented, Or Sealed?

Choosing a vented skylight is a great way to improve airflow in your home, but skylights aren’t exactly easy to open or close regularly. Some brands offer solar-powered or hardwired motors that can make it easier to open, and luxury models even include moisture-sensors that will automatically close the skylight when it rains! However, vented skylights may increase the risk of seal failure, leading to water leaking in your home, so it’s important to choose a model made with high-quality materials. 

Quality Matters, Especially With Installation

Investing in a high-quality skylight can help you save money on additional repairs down the road. Always have your skylight installed by an experienced roofer with the correct permits, and have your roof inspected prior to installation so there are no surprises. 

At K & P Exteriors, we are proud to work directly with our customers to get them the roof of their dreams. If your roof needs inspection or repair, visit our website or call (303) 853-0072 and experience firsthand why we’re a trusted name in the roofing industry. 

As a homeowner, you want to invest in materials that will last as long as possible. Read on for a breakdown on average lifespans of different roofing materials, as well as issues that can cause your roof to fail prematurely. 

Average Lifespan Of Various Materials

• Asphalt shingles: Asphalt shingles are among the most common roofing material, and for good reason—they’re relatively inexpensive, easy to install, and come in a variety of color options. However, asphalt shingles are not as durable as other materials, lasting an average of 30 years.
• Metal roof: Metal roofs are becoming increasingly more common, especially with the popularity of modern home styles. Metal roofs are very durable, lasting for an average of 50 years—almost double the lifespan of asphalt shingles!
• Wood shingles: There’s nothing like the classic natural beauty of a wooden roof, and wood shingles are significantly more eco-friendly than asphalt. Wood roofs last an average of 40–60 years, although they require regular maintenance to prevent rot. 
• Tile shingles: Tiles have been making a comeback recently, due to their many benefits. Tile roofs offer superb protection against the elements, and last an average of 50–80 years with some roofs lasting even longer! We know what you’re thinking—if tile roofs last so long, why don’t more homes use them? The answer: cost. Tile roofs are expensive to install, with installation fees alone ranging from $10,000–$14,000.

What Causes A Roof To Fail Prematurely? 

Just because your roof is expected to last for decades doesn’t mean it will. Hail can quickly cause significant damage to your roof, especially if you have asphalt shingles. Also, a build-up of debris in your gutters can cause ice dams to form during winter months, allowing water to seep in through your roof. 

Roofs are complex systems, and sometimes the issue isn’t with the roof itself but with the structure underneath. Moisture in your attic can cause mold and rot on the rafters, leading to structural damage over time. 

At K & P Exteriors, we work with homeowners to determine the best type of roof for each home and budget. If your roof is showing signs of damage, give us a call! Our team will perform an accurate damage evaluation, and help guide you through the insurance process. Visit our website or call (303) 853-0072 to get in touch today. 

When you think of roofing issues, you might think of snow, ice, and storms—but those calm, sunny summer days can cause some problems, too! 

UV Rays & Sunlight

We’ve mentioned it before, but it bears repeating—intense sunlight can actually damage your roof over time. Heat from the sun dries out shingles, making them susceptible to cracking and breaking. Choosing lighter-colored shingles, or applying a reflective coating, can help prolong the life of your roof while saving you money on cooling costs too! 

A dark-colored roof can reach temperatures as high as 160°F during the day. As the sun sets, cooler evening temperatures can cause your roof’s structure to expand and contract, leading to thermal shock. This can cause your roof to warp, creating gaps where water can seep through. 

Ventilation

Proper attic ventilation is necessary all year round, but it is especially important during the hot summer months. As your attic heats up, any moisture trapped inside quickly turns to mold and dry rot. Not only will this cause issues for your home’s air quality, it can also damage your roof’s structure and insulation. 

Moss Growth

Moss can cause significant damage to your home if it’s allowed to spread. Moss traps and holds moisture like a sponge, damaging your shingles and weakening your roof’s structure over time. 

Pests

Unrepaired damage on parts of your roof can give easy access to insects and other pests like squirrels, mice, and bats. Once inside, they can cause all kinds of damage, from making a nest in your insulation to destroying the structure itself. 

Storm Damage

We can’t have warm, sunny days without a few storms. High winds, hail, and heavy rain can all cause damage, so be sure to inspect your roof after each storm—look for cracked or broken shingles, excessive granule loss, and bruising on your shingles. Trim tree branches on a regular basis and keep gutters free of debris to prevent additional damage. 

No matter what kind of damage your roof has gone through, the team at K & P Exteriors is here to help with repairs and replacements. We’ll work with you every step of the way, from the inspection and insurance claim to the finished project. If your roof needs some repairs this summer, don’t hesitate to contact us! 

Golf-ball sized hail falls at speeds of ~40mph and can cause significant damage to your home’s exterior. Read on to learn more about how to identify hail damage, and what to do about it: 

On Your Roof

Hailstones as small as 1” can cause serious damage, so it’s important to inspect your roof after a hail storm. Metal roofs have a very high impact rating, but this does not mean they are immune to damage. Hailstones can dent a metal roof, causing it to appear pocked and dimpled. 

Traditional asphalt shingles are significantly more susceptible to hail damage. Granule loss, bruising, and cracking are all common during hail storms. If your shingles have bald, black patches or it looks like someone poured coffee grounds in your downspout, your shingles may need to be replaced. Untreated hail damage can shorten the lifespan of your roof and expose your home to potential leaks.

On Your Siding

Roofs generally take the brunt of hail, but if it’s falling at an angle or there are strong winds, your siding is likely to see some damage as well. As with shingles, siding can be dented or chipped by falling hail. Buckled or warping siding will need to be replaced before it forms a gap that allows water and pests to enter your home. If your home has aluminum siding, check for oxidation by running your hand over the siding—chalky residue is a sign your siding is approaching the end of its lifespan. 

Why You Should Get The Damage Repaired

Hail damage might seem mostly aesthetic, but those dents and dings can lead to bigger problems if not repaired. If you have cracked or bare shingles, it’s only a matter of time before you have water leaking in your ceiling. Some roof warranties may be void if repairs are not completed in a timely manner by a professional roofing company. 

95% of home exterior repairs and replacements are insurance claims. At K & P Exteriors, we’ll help you navigate the insurance claim process, and take care of any necessary repairs. We can also help with gutter repair, windows, and even your attic’s insulation. If your roof or siding has been damaged, visit our website, or give us a call at (303) 853-0072 and let us take care of it for you! 

Being environmentally friendly goes beyond recycling and drinking tap water. Check out these ways to make your home more environmentally friendly from the outside in: 

Materials Matter

From asphalt and metal to wood and tile, and many more in between, there are a lot of options for building materials on the market. Many materials are easily recycled—like clay, slate, aluminum, and even vinyl—making them an environmentally friendly choice for your home. Asphalt shingles, on the other hand, are petroleum-based, which makes them significantly more difficult to recycle. 

When it comes to materials, durability is key. After all, the greenest option is the one that doesn’t have to be replaced very often! Choosing long-lasting materials like slate, metal, and clay will help to ensure your home’s exterior looks its best for a long time. When we compared exterior siding options, we found that brick and stone last for decades, while wood and vinyl only last an average of ~20 years. 

The biggest downside to choosing environmentally friendly materials is that as benefits increase, so does cost. Metal roofs and slate shingles, as well as brick and concrete exteriors, are a significant investment compared to vinyl and asphalt. 

Lighten Up

As energy bills soar, more and more homeowners are looking for ways to make their homes more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly. Light-colored siding and roofing not only help keep your home cool throughout the day, but they also look newer, longer. Adding a reflective coating to your roof will also help keep cooling costs down. 

Go Green, Literally

Is there anything greener than a green roof? The trend of adding foliage to your roof is slowly growing in popularity across America, but if you’re not ready to turn your home into a Chia pet, that’s okay. Instead, consider adding solar panels to help offset your home’s carbon footprint. As a bonus, you’ll save money on your electrical bill, and possibly receive a discount from the state. 

With unparalleled service and expertise, the team at K & P Exteriors is here to help with all your home exterior repairs, replacements, and installations. We’ll help you choose the best materials for your home’s needs, and we also offer financing options. Call (303) 853-0072 or visit our website to get started today! 

New methods and materials mean new trends! Here are the top roofing trends for 2020: 

Metal Roofs

We’ve discussed the pros and cons of metal vs. asphalt shingles before, but there’s no denying that metal roofs are becoming more and more popular. Metal roofs are lightweight and incredibly durable, providing long-lasting protection for your home—and for those of us who want to go green, metal roofs can be made from recycled materials like aluminum.  

Energy Efficient Roofs

Light is the new black! A lighter-colored roof will better reflect sunlight, making your home cooler and more energy-efficient. Light-colored shingles also add an element of softness to your home’s exterior, and can even make it look bigger! Additionally, lighter colors are less susceptible to fading over time, making them an ideal choice for your whole home exterior.

“Cool” roofing is another common trend with many benefits, especially in sunny states like Colorado and Utah. Reflective paint is applied to shingles to help reflect sunlight, extending the life of your roof and reducing your energy bills. 

Solar Panels

Why settle for just being energy efficient when you can use your roof to create energy? Solar panels have come a long way over the years, making them more accessible to the average homeowner. Installing solar panels can reduce your electrical bill by up to 50%, and some states even offer discounts for homes with solar energy. There are a few things to consider before installing solar panels, though, such as how long you’ll be living in your home and the condition of your existing roof.

Flat, or Low-Slope Roofs

A flat, or low-slope roof gives your home a crisp, modern look. Low-slope roofs are preferable when installing solar panels, and they may make routine maintenance easier. A key thing to consider is snowfall—heavy snow can cause damage to a flat roof over time.

Alternative Materials

Safety and durability are key when it comes to building materials. We’re seeing a shift away from asphalt to more synthetic options, offering improved safety and better fire ratings. And sometimes, what was old is new again! Tile roofs are making a comeback, giving homes a classic look with added durability.

Whether you’re remodeling or working on a new build, K & P Exteriors has you covered for all your home exterior needs. Visit our website or call (303) 853-0072, and talk to us about which trend you want to add to your home!