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5 Reasons to Install Gutter Guards

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One of the services that we offer at EMA Construction is gutter guard installation. Our professional installers use the best available products to protect your gutters and home.  But some people may still wonder, do you really need gutter guards?  Here are the top five reasons that you should install gutter guards in your home!

1. Gutter Guards Reduce the Cost and Frequency of Cleaning

For most homeowners, a bi-annual gutter cleaning is recommended which costs around $160 per session.  This is a total of $320 per year to clean your existing gutters. Gutter guard cleaning is much simpler than gutter cleaning and no gutter guard system requires bi-annual cleaning. Most homeowners find that cleaning gutter guards once per year or once every other year is sufficient to keep them working properly.

2. Gutter Guards Prevent Water Damage Inside and Outside of Your Home

Overflowing gutters can create all sorts of problems for homeowners.  Heavy rain combined with clogged gutters can lead to flood basements, mold buildup in your siding or insulation, or even damage landscaping from large bodies of resting water. If you’ve ever dealt with water issues in your home then you know that water can find its way anywhere.  A healthy gutter system directs the water so it will only go where it is designed to and gutter guards are the best way to keep your gutter system healthy.

3. Prevent Animal, Critter, and Insect Infestation

Nesting animals like rats and birds frequently use gutters as a place to set up their nest. In addition to their nests creating problems, their droppings can also clog your system.  Insects like wasps and ants can also find their way into your gutters. Gutter guards help to prevent animals from using your gutters as a nesting area and can reduce their access to your roof.

4. Reduce the Likelihood of Fire.

This one may surprise some people!  Debris from trees (leaves and twigs) can accumulate in your gutters and downspouts.  Left untreated these can be a fire hazard. An outdoor bonfire or even a barbecue may create the conditions for dried-up debris to catch fire.  This is not only a risk for places that have an elevated risk of wildfires, but places like Cincinnati and Dayton can have long stretches of dry heat in the summer that create the right conditions for a fire.

5. Reduce Ice Dam Formation

One of the disadvantages of Cincinnati’s four seasons is that in the summer the gutters can be at risk of fire and our winters can create freezing problems.  Winter is hard on gutters. Water accumulates in them when they’re clogged. When freezing temperatures come, that resting water can free and cause ice dams to form. Ice dams can lead to water damage in your home or roof not to mention the damage to your gutter system. Gutter guards, installed properly, significantly reduce ice dam formation.

There are more reasons to consider, but those five are the top reasons to consider investing in your home with a gutter guard system. The upfront cost can create a little sticker shock for some folks, but it is important to remember that you’ll save an average of $320 per year on gutter cleaning. Others are tempted to install their own gutter guards, but there is nothing worse than a big investment negated by faulty installation.  Instead, get a free estimate from EMA Construction on your gutter guard installation and get the most from your money and the best protection for your home!

Six Common Questions About Painting James Hardie Siding

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At EMA Construction we specialize in James Hardie and cedar siding products. Lately, we’ve noticed some common questions about James Hardie siding and so we’ve decided to answer them.  The top searched questions among them are:

  • What colors does James Hardie siding come in?
  • Can James Hardie siding be painted? Can You Paint James Hardie? Is James Hardie Siding Paintable?
  • Does James Hardie siding need to be painted?
  • Does James Hardie siding need to be primed?

So we’ll answer these in order:

What Colors Does James Hardie Siding Come in?

This is a relatively straightforward question and to some extent negates some of the others.  James Hardie comes in a wide variety of colors.  You can use the James Hardie website to see the full range.  When you place your order the siding will arrive in the color you selected so it will not require priming or painting just installation.  Installation of James Hardie should always be handled by a professional.

Can James Hardie Siding Be Painted? Can You Paint James Hardie? Is James Hardie Siding Paintable?

The short answer is yes. However, it depends on why you’re asking. If you’re worried about normal wear and tear such as chipping, peeling, and fading then you don’t need to worry about that.  James Hardie has a six-step process to ensure that their ColorPlus Technology has significantly greater longevity than painted wood or vinyl. However, if you decide that you want to change the color of your house, then James Hardie can be painted but even a professional paint job by a contractor is unlikely to hold up as well as the factory ColorPlus Technology from James Hardie.

Does James Hardie Siding Need to Be Painted?

This question also requires a nuanced answer. If the question is, “do I have to paint it myself?” then the answer is no. James Hardie will arrive in the color you ordered it in. If the question is, “does James Hardie need to be painted in order to protect it?” then the answer is no. James Hardie fiber cement is durable whether it comes painted or not.  It also retains paint longer than regular wood.

Does James Hardie Siding Need To Be Primed?

Similar to the previous question, James Hardie will come primed or painted as you specify so you do not necessarily need to prime it yourself.  However, if you have untreated James Hardie and you intend to paint it then it is wise to prime it first.

We hope these answers help as you consider investing in James Hardie siding.  For a free quote in the Greater Cincinnati and Dayton area for James Hardie or cedar siding on your home contact EMA Construction today.

How Long Does Cedar Siding Last?

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Lately, we’ve been taking time to answer some of the most popular questions on the internet regarding our products.  Cedar siding and cedar shakes are premium siding products and offer a natural beauty that is not easily imitated or replicated.  But how long does it last?

The short answer is the cedar lasts anywhere from 20 to 40 years with some well-maintained cedar lasting as long as 70 years. While cedar offers many benefits to durability and insulation compared to something like vinyl siding, it also brings with it a bit more maintenance and up-front cost. Generally speaking, cedar outlasts stucco.  It is comparable to log siding, but with less maintenance.  It doesn’t last as long as natural stone or fiberglass, but it is more affordable.  It is also worth noting that cedar, aside from looking great, is eco-friendly and naturally insect-resistant.

One challenge that you’ll have to weigh when choosing siding is whether you want to buy something cheaper that won’t require maintenance or last as long or whether you’re ready to invest in your home’s cosmetic, insulation and weather-proofing, and long-lasting natural beauty.  If the latter sounds like you and you’re prepared to handle a moderate amount of maintenance then cedar is a great choice for your home or even just add some accent work to other siding.

If you’re interested in long-lasting cedar siding then contact EMA Construction today for a free quote on your home.  We can handle the design, installation, ongoing maintenance, and repair for all of your cedar shakes and siding needs.

Work in Progress: James Hardie and New Roof in Lebanon, OH

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Here is a job we’re currently working on in Lebanon.
This house is receiving a full roof removal, as well as siding, trim, gutters, and downspouts. We will be installing a new roof, James Hardie siding, trim and gutters, and downspouts. It will have a whole new look when we’re finished!
A view of the back of the house and porch for a home in Lebanon, OH recieving new James Hardie siding A side view of a house for a home in Lebanon, OH recieving new James Hardie siding A streetview of a house in Lebanon, OH recieving new James Hardie siding
To learn more about James Hardie products or to receive a free quote from an Elite Preferred James Hardie installer, contact EMA today!

What is James Hardie Siding?

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Choosing new siding for your home is a huge decision.  There are so many options, not just for material, but for brands, colors, contractors, and more. It can be a bit overwhelming.  In this article, we’ll answer some of the most popular questions on the internet about James Hardie siding.  For an overview of fiber cement siding, you may want to start with our 6 Frequently Asked Questions about Fiber Cement Siding.

What is James Hardie siding made of?

According to the James Hardie website, “Fiber cement is made up of a few simple ingredients: Portland cement, sand, water, and cellulose fibers. However, the composition will change depending on the manufacturer. James Hardie’s formulation includes propriety additives that enhance the performance of the product.”  That means that even if you’ve decided on fiber cement siding, there are advantages to choosing James Hardie above other options.

To see how it is made you can watch this video provided by James Hardie:

Where is James Hardie siding manufactured?

James Hardie materials are made in 11 manufacturing facilities in the United States with locations in Illinois, Flordia, Nevada, Txas, and Virginia. James Hardie operates globally and also has locations overseas. If you live in the United States and want to support U.S. workers then James Hardie is a great choice from manufacturing, front-office, all the way to your contractors.

Is James Hardie siding expensive?

This is a common question, but it is somewhat subjective.  On the whole, James Hardie siding is considered relatively affordable.  There are definitely cheaper options like vinyl which have a proportionate diminisnhing return on your investment. In terms of the cost-to-value ratio, James Hardie may be the best.  It provides almost any look you want, is cheaper than other options like cedar, has a long life, is durable, helps with insulation, is resistant to sun and weather damage, and is paintable so you can transform your home’s appearance without even replacing siding.

Who sells James Hardie Siding?

As a premier brand, James Hardie can be purchased most place like Lowes or Home Depot, although it frequently takes a special order. Contractors who specialize in James Hardie products may have access to bulk discounts or special incentives that a do-it-yourself homeowner won’t have access to.

Is James Hardie siding waterproof and/or fire-rated?

James Hardie cement board is 100% waterproof. It has a naturally long life and, when installed properly, will protect your home from leaks and moisture build-up.

Is it fire-rated?  The James Hardie website says, “While JamesHardie® products will not ignite when exposed to direct flame or contribute fuel to a fire, heat will transfer through them.”  To learn more, visit the James Hardie Fire Prevention FAQ.

To learn more about James Hardie products visit the official site.  If you’re interested in talking about James Hardie for your home or getting a free quote in the Greater Cincinnati area then contact EMA Construction today!

5 Signs That It Is Time to Replace Cedar Siding

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Cedar siding is more of a premium product than some of its competitors like vinyl siding.  As such, it is a bit more expensive upfront, but it also has some hidden perks. Some popular questions across the internet have to do with finding the right time to replace cedar siding.  In this article, we’ll provide five signs that indicate it is time to get new siding. Before getting into that, it is important to note that cedar shakes and siding can be repaired and even replaced without needing to redo your entire home.  A professional siding contractor can remove rotten or warped pieces and replace cedar elements much easier than say vinyl siding.  So, the good news is that just because a few pieces may go bad does not mean you have to commit to residing your entire house.

Without any further ado, here are five signs that it is time to replace your cedar siding:

  1. Warping – One advantage of cedar is that it has a strong resistance to warping. If you notice that your siding has changed its shape or shows signs of moisture damage then it is likely time to replace some or all of your cedar.
  2. Mold and Mildew – Mold and mildew growth on the home is a key indication that siding requires replacement. Mold grows where water damage occurs. Eventually, the wood will rot which aside from not looking good, can even cause health problems for those living in the home. Any situation with mold should be handled by a professional as it is unsafe. For amateurs, it is easy to treat the symptom while leaving the root cause unaddressed which means you’ll have recurring mold issues.
  3. Dry Rot – Unlike some of these other symptoms, this can be simply diagnosed. If you carefully insert a screwdriver beneath boards and joints along gutters and chimneys then you can detect if an area is particularly soft. Such softness would likely mean irreparable rotting damage. Additionally, dry rot is noticeable if the siding crumbles when tapped.  Simple to diagnose, but sometimes difficult to notice as the top layer is frequently the last to be affected by dry rot.
  4. Loose or Missing Shingles – Severe weather or perhaps some home accident can destroy or damage particular shingles.  This is definitely a case when it is time to replace those shingles.  If done professionally the cost can be relatively minimal since cedar can be strategically replaced as needed rather than committing to a whole new siding job.
  5. Holes and Cracks – Whether they are caused by swarms of insects, birds, or a backyard game of baseball, holes, and cracks should be dealt with swiftly.

While those five are the most definitive, there are other things worth noting.  Have you recently seen a significant rise in heating or cooling expenses?  It could be that your house’s insulation is compromised because of damaged siding. Interior peeling paint or wallpaper can also sometimes indicate that siding is worn out.  If you notice any of these symptoms it is best to consult with a siding expert.

If you’re in the Greater Cincinnati or Dayton area, contact EMA Construction today to get a free consultation on cedar siding and shakes repair or replacement.

Some of Our Recent Projects With Cedar Siding and Shakes

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Not all of our work with cedar is on brand new builds or a complete home makeover, some of it is updating and repairs.  Below you’ll find a selection of some of our recent projects with a short description of each job.  For more information about cedar siding, cedar shakes, or cedar repair visit our cedar siding page and get a free estimate for your work!

Here is a sign from City Gate Church in Lebanon, Ohio.  As you can see, the wood on the old sign had aged poorly and looked dirty, and could even be perceived as uninviting. In the following two pictures, you can see the new cedar that brings the sign to life.  It has a natural, warm, and inviting look that is uniquely cedar.  If you’ve worked with cedar before, then you know that this will weather and age in a way that enhances the natural beauty.

In this next job, you can see that many of the cedar shakes on this house have started to lift, warp, and rot. This homeowner hired EMA Construction to replace the damaged shakes and the homeowner will re-paint to match the rest of the home this spring. If you need similar work, then be sure to read our 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Painting Cedar.  You may also want to read, Cedar Siding: Paint, Stain, or Leave it Alone?

Cedar, unlike vinyl, is easy to replace portions and segments without needing to redo the entire home.  It is a bit more of an investment upfront, but it looks better and can be partially replaced much more easily than vinyl or other alternatives.  For a more detailed comparison of cedar vs vinyl siding then read our article about the pros and cons of Cedar vs Vinyl.

EMA Construction is happy to do new installation, staining/painting, and repair of cedar siding or shakes.  In addition to the natural beauty, you may also consider cedar siding for its sustainability. Here are some tips on How to Keep Your Cedar Looking Like New.

If you’re considering cedar for your next home improvement or building project then start with our Frequently Asked Questions or contact us today for a free estimate!

How To Transform Your Home with James Hardie Siding and Cedar Accents

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In the video below we’ll show you some before and after photos and videos of a home that transformed its appearance by painting the brick, replacing the siding with James Hardie fiber cement siding, and using some stained cedar accents.  Take a look and then we’ll walk you through the changes:

The first thing that you’ll see is that the front of the house was transformed by painting the brick white. As you spend more time with it you’ll notice that the gutter, soffit, and trim have all been upgraded to James Hardie.  The windows have been replaced. And the front porch was extended forward using a stained cedar.  The window directly above the porch is outlined in cedar and the gable has some cedar accents to introduce some color.

Next, the left side of the house had a beige horizontal vinyl siding that was upgraded to a white vertically-oriented James Hardie siding.  Similarly, the back of the house had its beige siding replaced with the same white vertically-oriented James Hardie siding.  The right side of the house received the same treatment with just a bit of cedar trim above the garage.  Later in the video, you can see a close-up of the before and after footage of the gables on the front of the house.  The cedar accents make a huge difference to give this home a warmer feeling. The back porch was constructed with white painted wood, but after this renovation, it got a cleaner and more open look by using larger and fewer cedar posts and a cedar ceiling.

If your home needs new siding, then why not take the opportunity to transform its appearance? You can replace vinyl siding with cedar to give your home a natural look or you can use a fiber cement James Hardie siding for versatility and virtually endless color and texture options. James Hardie and Cedar both offer better durability, reliability, sustainability, and longevity than vinyl siding.  If you’re interested in the Greater Cincinnati or Dayton area and are interested in receiving a free quote from EMA Construction then let us know and we can help you plan your home’s transformation!  Contact Us Today ⇒

How to Use Cedar to Accent Your Home

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Cedar is a popular choice for siding, but you can enhance your home with cedar even without replacing all of your siding.  Even a small amount of cedar trim can enhance your home’s beauty whether your house uses siding or natural brick.  Cedar is loved because it can provide your house with a natural look, especially when blended with stone or landscaping.

In the project below you’ll see some stained cedar used to accent the gable, back porch, and front porch of this home.  The result is some great curbside appeal and adding the natural aesthetic of cedar to an otherwise monochromatic home.

Here is the gable before and after.  In the after picture you can see that the brick has been painted white, the trim has been upgraded to James Hardie, and the cedar accents sit at the top of the gable to provide an accent.

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