Hey there Atlanta!

Are you considering a new slate roof, or looking for a skilled Atlanta roofing company to repair your slate roof?

Slate roofing accounts for a small fraction of the overall Atlanta roofing market. As a result, finding a competent and experienced contractor to repair or replace your slate roof can be difficult. Slate roof tiles truly require a craftsman to install and should not be trusted to just any roofer willing to give it a try

Look no further! Sparrow Exteriors is a slate roofing specialist and our team of expert installers can handle everything from minor slate repairs to complete custom slate roofing installations. We service the Greater Atlanta area and are here to help you.

Slate roof tiles are by far the most sought after, longest lasting and most beautiful roofing material in the world. A quality quarried slate that is properly installed and maintained can literally last centuries. This roof system is for the homeowner looking to add serious curb appeal to their home without sacrificing durability.

Slate roofs are:

¨      100% Natural – a GreenBuilding Material

¨      Equity Building

¨      Fireproof

¨      Durable

¨      Repairable

¨      Impact Resistant

¨      Beautiful

¨      Long Lasting

Slate roofing requires a unique skill set that traditional asphalt roofs do not. This is truly a custom installation. Whether you need a couple tiles replaced or are looking for a complete installation, Sparrow Exteriors will deliver.

We offer a free consultation in which we will review your unique situation and will provide you a detailed written estimate. We explain exactly what steps need to be taken to get the most out of your slate roof.

Our goal is to create peace of mind and deliver a quality installation that will last for generations.  

Are you wanting the look of traditional slate roofing, but are concerned about the cost? Consider DaVinci Roofscapes line of synthetic slate roof tiles. While still more costly than asphalt shingles, they are less expensive than traditional slate and offer the same look and many of the same benefits.

If you would like to see samples of various slate tiles, need to schedule a repair or replacement of your slate roof, or simply have a question please call us today and…

Hey there Atlanta!

We recently received a phone call from an Atlanta resident with a Cedar Shake roof who had a question concerning staining and maintenance.  Several of his neighbors have had their Cedar roofs sealed and he wanted an expert’s opinion. While the percentage of Cedar roofs in Atlanta is low when compared to asphalt shingles, we still have thousands of Cedar roofs throughout the Greater Atlanta area. Sparrow Exteriors is an expert in specialty roofing like Cedar, Slate, Stone-Coated Metal, Synthetic Polymers, Clay & Concrete Tile, etc.

While a Cedar roof provides a beautiful and rustic look to any home, it does require a little more maintenance than others. Given the high cost of a specialty roof like Shake, it is critical that it receives routine maintenance to extend its lifespan. For this reason we recommend annual inspections beginning around year 8. This way missing, broken, curling and otherwise damaged shakes can be repaired before compromising the roof system’s integrity.

There is quite a bit of confusion in staining versus sealing due in no small part to contractors who use the words interchangeably.  This means a simple Google search can be misleading. However, the Cedar Shake & Shingle Bureau advises against sealing and promotes staining. What your contractor should use is non-drying oil (WoodRich Timber Oil, Ready Seal, Wood Defender – a parafinnic, non curing oil). While clear “stains” are available, without stain pigments shakes will stay or turn gray. This is a matter of personal preference. Do you like the look of fresh cedar, or the rustic weathered gray?

When it comes to cleaning, staining and sealing, here’s what you need to know…

FIRST

Take this opportunity to repair the roof if routine maintenance has not been previously performed. Then move on to cleaning the shake and finally staining it.

POWERWASHING

Powerwashing is the most controversial issue in the care and maintenance industry. It’s a fact that high pressure cleaning by the inexperienced will cause significant damage to any material, including Cedar Shake. Most debris can easily be removed with basic garden hose level water pressure.

Some contractors powerwash to clean roofs, while others do not. If powerwashing is to be used, the roof should receive a topical treatment to restore the roof afterwards.

Sparrow Exteriors bases our use of powerwashing on the individual roof and its condition. We do not believe in a one size fits all approach to specialty roofing! The CSSB (Cedar Shake & Shingle Bureau) recommends having a professional assess each job on an individual basis and we couldn’t agree more! A professional should consider the following factors to determine if powerwashing is appropriate or not:

• Age, condition and environment of roof

• Gallons sprayed per minute

• Fan tip size

• Distance spray nozzle is held from roof

• Pressure per inch and others…

TOPICAL TREATMENTS

First a word of caution: Pressure-impregnated (pressure treated) and fire-retardant cedar shake products should not receive after market roof treatments without written permission from the manufacturer of such products.

ONLY USE TOPICAL TREATMENTS THAT:

• Offer a MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet that lists product ingredients and safety precautions).

• Is labeled as a cedar roof treatment product or has a letter from the manufacturer stating that treating cedar roofs is an appropriate use of this product.

• Is a water repellent, UV inhibitor, and/or EPA registered wood preservative.

• Has a manufacturer’s performance guarantee

DO NOT USE TOPICAL TREATMENTS THAT:

• Makes outrageous claims (such as a 10-year effectiveness).

• Makes fire-retardant claims.

• Is a sealant, waterproofer or plasticizer.

• Contains unfortified linseed oil, diesel fuel or crank case oil.

There are numerous bleaching and cleaning agents on the market and being promoted by various contractors. Many claim to be effective on moss/mildew removal or accelerating cedar’s change to the weathered gray color. It is in your best interests to heed these precautions before allowing such products to be applied to a cedar roof.

For example: While many contractors in Atlanta use and promote Thompson’s WaterSeal, a simple call to the manufacturer reveals this product should not be used on Pressure Treated Cedar Shake roofs. Additionally, should your cedar roof be untreated they anticipate the coating only lasting roughly 18 months.

For more information, we recommend consulting the Cedar Shake & Shingle Bureau.

Finishes & Coatings PDF

Maintenance & Finishing Guide

If you have questions about cleaning or staining your cedar shake roof, or need to schedule maintenance please call us today and…

Hey there Atlanta!

So you’ve decided to replace your roof and are anxiously waiting to see the new roof installed. A new roof is a great way to improve curb appeal and increase resale value – you should be excited! However, before work begins make sure you’ve reviewed the roof removal process with your roofer.

Few homeowners and even fewer contractors put enough time into preparing for the removal process. The average roof in Atlanta literally weighs tons; shingles, felt, nails, staples, bad decking, flashing and other roof accessories add up. It is impossible that all of this material makes it smoothly from roof to waste container and good contractors know how to address this.

Georgia has some great home improvement specialists, but due to the lack of regulation and licensing requirements it also has more than its share of knuckleheads. The last thing you want is to suffer pain and heartache due to a contractor’s negligence.

Landscaping near the house such as flowers and shrubs should be covered with a tarp. Expensive and delicate plants and small trees should be covered with plywood or other rigid surface to ensure they are not damaged. Exposed AC units should be protected with plywood, as falling debris can damage the AC fins and even coils. If you have a pool insist your contractor cover it with a tarp; roof debris can clog pool filters as well as stain the surface of the pool. Do you have a custom porch or patio? Do you have a specialty driveway? Cobblestone, brick, pure asphalt, slate, stamped concrete and other specialty driveways can easily be damaged by the waste containers roofers most often use. Has your roofer addressed their plans on protecting these areas of your home? If not, they’ve more than likely overlooked them putting it at risk.

Each home is unique and requires special attention. At Sparrow Exteriors, we’ve made it our mission to make the renovation process as smooth and pleasant as possible. These are just some of the things we worry about so you don’t have to.

Whether you need an Atlanta roofer, a local painting professional, custom vinyl replacement windows, attic insulation, new fiber-cement or vinyl siding, or are looking to replace your gutters, Sparrow Exteriors is here to help. Call us today and…

Yesterday evening the Greater Atlanta area experienced damaging storms which produced large hail and high winds. While many homeowners are immediately concerned with protecting their vehicles, few ever stop to consider the impact such storms have on their home’s exterior.

STORM FACTS:

• Hail damage, wind damage and other storm related damages are covered by your homeowner’s insurance for a limited time
• Hail can easily damage all types of roofing, but damage is rarely visible from the ground
• Hail and wind-blown debris can damage siding, stucco and even brick
• Hail damage can chip away at your home’s paint
• Hail and windblown debris can damage window screens as well as the windows themselves
• Hail and debris can dent and damage your home’s gutters and downspouts
• Hail can damage your AC unit, reducing its function and even lifespan
• Roof damage from hail rarely results in immediately noticeable leaks, instead it often shows up later once the damage is more severe

As a home-improvement contractor serving Greater Atlanta, Sparrow Exteriors is no stranger to hail damage, wind damage and windblown debris. We are often called upon to provide emergency services such as temporary roof tarps, and emergency repairs. We also are routinely sought out to provide analysis of hail damage and wind damage as well as provide comprehensive breakdowns for homeowners and their insurance providers. We utilize similar standards, the same estimating software, the same measuring software and can prepare the documentation your insurer will need to ease the process of filing and reviewing a claim.

Sparrow Exteriors makes the restoration process easy! As an exterior specialist, we review the claim with your insurer to ensure your home’s complete restoration and our dedicated team of professionals handle your entire renovation from start to completion.

If you suspect your home may have been damaged, call us today and…

Hey there Atlanta,

Here’s another really neat info-graphic from the folks over at visual highlighting some interesting facts on recycling. Don’t forget, before Sparrow Exteriors replaces your asphalt shingle roof, notify the Representative you’re working with if you would like to recycle your roof.

Ever wonder how to choose the best colors to paint your home’s exterior, or a room in your house? This neat info-graphic (courtesy of linchpinseo) entitled “The Psychology of Color: A Guide to Color Selection” may be just the thing you were looking for.

What’s your favorite color? Ours… obviously PURPLE!

Looking to do some painting yourself? This helpful article comes courtesy of The Family Handyman and details exactly how to repaint chipped and flaking, faded or dirty moldings so they look like new.

Of course if your project is too large or time consuming to tackle yourself, Sparrow Exteriors will happily assist you in everything from color selection to application. Our team of expert painters will bring your vision to life. Call us today and…

“Trust Your Nest to The Very Best!” TM

Nearly every year Atlanta experiences severe weather which damages homes and other buildings. This damage often requires the expertise of a roofing contractor, painter, gutter or siding installer. While the State of Georgia has taken recent steps to protect consumers and increase the penalties for contractors that operate unethically, it still has a long way to go to protect consumers. Sadly, predatory contractor practices are still all too common.

There are many quality companies in the Atlanta market, but how do you judge them; off of a clever billboard or business card, how friendly the salesperson is?

Atlanta, Georgia is in the heart of the South and is known for demonstrating that Southern hospitality, often to a fault. Too many Georgians feel it would be rude to question a contractor, or ask for proof of their claims. This all too often sets up kind and well meaning people to be abused.

Ronald Reagan use to say “Trust, but verify.” This advice relates perfectly to contractors. Never take a contractor’s claims at face value. They may very well be proven correct, but being certain is much better than being hopeful! 

While the internet is full of stories detailing the risks of not verifying Worker’s Compensation & General Liability Insurance, this particular article from the Wall Street Journal is very thorough.

“Trust Your Nest to The Very Best!”

Fact: Homes need maintained.

Unfortunately, not every home improvement project is readily noticeable – let alone increases your home’s property value. Some investments can pay for themselves over time (See Projects That Pay For Themselves). Other home improvement projects can add value almost instantly. Here we will focus on these projects which are best to implement if you’re placing your home for sale or considering selling soon. These improvements tend to focus on the first impressions of potential buyers.

While some buyers do not mind a “fixer upper”, they will inevitably use this status as a negotiation tactic to lower the sale price. Most buyers want a home in turn-key condition. Most buyers will pay more if it means the home is move-in ready and pain free.

So what are the top ten home improvement projects that increase a home’s value?

1. Exterior Painting

Painting the exterior of your Atlanta home is one of the quickest ways to improve your home’s first impression with buyers. This also provides an opportunity to update your home’s color scheme with something more modern and fresh. Just be sure to choose colors that attract the largest number of potential buyers!

Before applying paint and risking a potential color mistake, take advantage of the virtual painting programs found here: Paint Planning Tools

2. Replace Siding

Atlanta weather can wreak havoc on a home’s siding. Often fiber cement and vinyl siding warp, chip, rot, swell, melt, etc over time. Simply painting over bad siding will not make it go away! Home inspectors are trained to look at everything. If a potential buyer sees too many issues with a home’s siding they can often become discouraged and disinterested.

Replacing the siding of your home improves its appearance, while providing a sense of long term security to those important potential home buyers.

3. Replacement Windows

Replacing old windows with new energy efficient alternatives attracts buyers who may otherwise pass on your home simply because of the energy costs. Additionally, impact resistant glass provides additional home security and is a great selling point.

Also be sure to keep your proof of purchase since the State and Federal government often provide tax credits for energy efficient windows. Some insurance providers also offer reduced premiums for security features, such as impact resistant glass.

There are a lot of bargain replacement window installers in Atlanta and while price is an obvious consideration – corner cutting almost always results in increased costs and delays. Be sure your replacement windows are installed by a professional. Quality always shines through and potential home buyers appreciate it.

4. Roof Repair & Roof Replacement

No one wants to buy a home with an old roof! Atlanta is known for its beautiful homes and steep showcase roofing. An Atlanta home’s roof can often account for as much as half of a home’s curb appeal. Lenders often want to be sure a roof will last at least another 5 years. Home Inspectors often find roof related issues that may reduce the sale price.

To make certain you receive top dollar for your home and avoid a deal breaking inspection report, now is the time to get these critical areas of your home in order.

5. Interior Painting

Many realtors still advise their clients to choose bland and plain colors, the only problem is that most home-buyers have difficulty visualizing color. Take a peek inside nearby model homes and you will quickly realize that plain white is out and tasteful color is in.

Of course, this doesn’t mean you can go color crazy. The colors still need to match each other and blend in with the décor of the home – the goal is to create an inviting atmosphere. Accent walls are also a great way to tastefully boost your color’s impact.

Remember, it’s about attracting the most buyers!

6. Kitchen Update

Every kitchen eventually needs an update. Replacing, or even painting and staining the cabinets can immediately make the entire kitchen feel more modern. Replacing countertops as well as the plumbing fixtures also provide a clean, new feel.

Your home only has to be comparable to other homes in your area. It is generally a good idea not to be the most expensive house on the block, so don’t try to surpass the Joneses – just keep up with them. For example, installing granite counter tops may be the norm for your area and not having them may turn off potential buyers. On the other hand, if they are not common place in your area, installing them may cause the value shopper to believe they will have to pay more for the home because of the higher cost of materials used.

7. Bathrooms

Everyone knows when it comes to a home’s interior it’s mostly about kitchens and bathrooms. Replacing dated light fixtures, installing a new toilet, bathtub and cabinetry can be relatively easy stand alone projects that any new buyer can appreciate. It’s all in the details! Examine the little things like exhaust fans that may need cleaning or replacing.

Everyone wants a clean bathroom! Cleaning or even replacing tile grout, re-caulking, and applying new paint make old bathrooms shine.

8. Landscaping & Lighting

Investing in planting new sod, applying woodchips, rock, flowers, shrubs and trees can turn an exhausted yard into an inviting, tranquil space. Also, consider how your home looks after dark when some potential home buyers are still house shopping. Installing new light fixtures can enhance your home’s night time setting while updating the exterior during the day.

9. Flooring

Your home’s flooring needs to be clean, contemporary and stylish. It should bring the whole home together, flowing seamlessly from one room to the next.

10. Cleaning

The easiest and least expensive thing you can do before placing your home for sale is to perform a thorough cleaning of every surface in the home. A soapy bucket of water and a couple rags can get your home show ready.

Start by choosing the items that best work into your budget and finish by cleaning. Very few homes are in perfect condition when placed on the market, but the better shape yours is in, the greater chance of getting multiple offers and a fast and profitable sale.

Sparrow Exteriors is a premiere home improvement contractor serving the greater Atlanta area. If you have questions about how to best improve your home’s curb appeal, feel free to call or email us and…

“Trust Your Nest to The Very Best!” TM