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7 Steps to Winterize Your Home

7 Steps to Winterize Your Home

Winter is here, but it isn’t too late to take a few steps to winterize your home and make it comfortable before the Minnesota winds and winter storms ravage your home heating system.

These seven essential, yet straightforward steps will help ensure your castle is a warm and comfortable home.

1. Clean Out the Gutters

Now that most of the leaves have fallen, get your gutters cleaned to ensure debris and leaves don’t clog your downspouts. When your downspouts get clogged, the rain cannot drain off, and the winter cold will freeze it in the gutters. Before you know it, you will have a waterfall hanging over the side of your gutters.

2. Trim the Limbs

If you don’t want those limbs around your home tearing off shingles and siding, it would be a good idea to trim them back before the Minnesota winter winds get serious.

3. Service the Furnace

Call a professional to clean and service your furnace. A heating contractor will clean or replace filters and ductwork to ensure your home gets the maximum heat throughout the winter.

4. Seal Windows & Doors

Weatherstripping is an excellent place to start. Plus, it is one of the least expensive energy-saving steps a homeowner can take.

Around doors, put the strips on the door and the jam for a tight fit, and then install a sweep on the door’s bottom. For the windows, use a rubber or foam strip along the bottom and tops, and then use a removable strip to seal the sides.

However, once this is done and you still feel a draft, contact the Signature Home Services technicians about storm doors and windows or window replacement.

5. Winterize Your Roof

Call the professionals at Signature to conduct a roof inspection. They’ll ensure flashing is tight and caulked adequately to prevent leaks once the ice and snow gathers on your roof. They will also replace any missing or loose shingles to prevent leaks.

6. Winterize the Sprinkler System

If you haven’t done so already, turn off the water and drain those lines. Some systems might require a professional landscaper to blow out the lines. Bring in temporary garden hoses.

7. Install or Replace Storm Doors & Windows

Your doors and windows might be fine, but if you feel a draft that weather stripping won’t cure, you might want to consider new storm doors or windows.

Contact the technicians at Signature Home Services to measure your windows and doors and give you a new installation or replacement price. Then, contact the Minnesota Department of Commerce to determine what incentives and rebates are available for these energy-saving innovations for your home.

Contact Signature Home Services for a Home Winterization Estimate

To ensure your home gets these winterization services, call (651)-424-1746 to know more and schedule an appointment here.

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5 Reasons You Need To Change Your Door Now 

5 Reasons You Need To Change Your Door Now 

Your front door does more than just welcome guests—it’s a reflection of your home’s personality, a guardian of your safety, and a barrier against the elements. Yet, like many aspects of our homes, doors can wear out and become outdated over time, potentially compromising their function. If you’ve ever wondered whether it’s time to replace or upgrade your door, this article is for you.

In this blog post, we’ll discuss the key signs that signal a need for change and the multiple benefits of making that decision. By the end, you’ll have a clearer understanding of the tangible impacts a door can have on your home’s aesthetics, security, and energy efficiency.

5 Reasons You Need To Change Your Door Now

Changing your door can significantly improve your home’s overall appeal and functionality. The five reasons that stand out are enhancing security, boosting energy efficiency, uplifting curb appeal, reducing noise, and increasing property value.

Let’s explore each one further:

  1. Security and Materials: Traditional wooden doors, though charming, may not offer the same security level as modern steel door or fiberglass door options. As burglars become more sophisticated, it’s essential to have doors made of robust materials that resist break-ins.
  2. Energy Efficiency and Drafts: Old doors can have drafts, which lead to increased energy bills. However, modern doors, especially those with efficient frames and windows, are designed to combat the weather conditions and maintain the desired indoor temperature. This makes a significant difference in keeping your house cozy and your bills low.
  3. Aesthetics and Color: Gone are the days when doors came in standard colors. Today, whether you want a contemporary color or a vibrant pop of color, there’s a model available to suit your taste. This simple change can make your house stand out and is less intensive than a major remodeling project.
  4. Noise Reduction and Maintenance: Fiberglass doors and steel doors play a role in reducing external noise. Furthermore, they often require less maintenance than their wooden counterparts, making them an ideal option for those who want a blend of style and functionality.
  5. Increase in Property Value: Replacing your door, especially if it includes stylish glass elements or complements your windows, can boost the property’s overall value. The return on investment for such a project can be substantial, especially when potential buyers notice the difference a new door makes in terms of aesthetics and function.

Whether you’re eyeing wooden doors with a modern twist or sleek fiberglass doors in a contemporary color, changing your door is a worthy home project. The benefits are manifold, from saving on energy bills to giving your home’s facade a fresh look. So, before the weather changes again, consider this project and reap the rewards it offers.

Improve Your Home's Security

Upgrading your door is a pivotal step in enhancing the security of your home.

Older doors, especially those that have been exposed to the elements or show signs of wear, can become easy targets for potential intruders. In contrast, modern doors are crafted with security as a priority. They often incorporate reinforced materials, advanced locking mechanisms, and designs that deter tampering.

Beyond the materials themselves, there’s the added benefit of technology. Many doors today can be integrated with home security systems, allowing for alerts if the door is tampered with or opened unexpectedly.

By simply changing your door, you significantly reduce the risk of unwanted entries, ensuring peace of mind for you and your loved ones.

Boost Your Home's Energy Efficiency

Changing your door can lead to noticeable savings on your energy bills.

Old doors, particularly those with damaged seals or gaps, allow for drafts that can drastically affect the internal temperature of your home. These drafts force heating and cooling systems to work harder, leading to higher energy consumption.

On the other hand, modern doors are designed with energy efficiency in mind. They feature better insulation properties, tighter seals, and materials that provide a barrier against external temperatures. Additionally, doors with enhanced thermal properties or those paired with energy-efficient windows can further amplify these benefits.

By investing in a new door, you not only create a comfortable living environment but also promote sustainability by reducing energy wastage.

Enhance Your Home's Curb Appeal

Switching to a new door can dramatically transform the exterior aesthetics of your residence.

The front door serves as the focal point of your home’s facade, and over time, it can fade, chip, or go out of style. In today’s market, doors come in a vast array of designs, materials, and finishes, allowing homeowners to choose one that perfectly complements their architectural preferences.

Whether you lean towards a rustic charm, a sleek contemporary design, or even a splash of vibrant color, the right door can breathe new life into your home’s appearance. Moreover, enhancing curb appeal is not just about beauty; it can also increase your property’s perceived value, making it particularly beneficial if you’re considering selling in the near future.

Boost Your Home's Energy Efficiency

Changing your door can lead to noticeable savings on your energy bills.

Old doors, particularly those with damaged seals or gaps, allow for drafts that can drastically affect the internal temperature of your home. These drafts force heating and cooling systems to work harder, leading to higher energy consumption.

On the other hand, modern doors are designed with energy efficiency in mind. They feature better insulation properties, tighter seals, and materials that provide a barrier against external temperatures. Additionally, doors with enhanced thermal properties or those paired with energy-efficient windows can further amplify these benefits.

By investing in a new door, you not only create a comfortable living environment but also promote sustainability by reducing energy wastage.

Reduce Noise Pollution

Investing in a new door can be the solution to achieving a quieter and more serene indoor environment.

Older doors, especially those with thinner materials or gaps, can be poor barriers to the bustling sounds of the outside world, be it busy streets, noisy neighbors, or blaring sirens. Modern doors, however, are constructed with noise reduction in mind. They often feature solid cores, advanced sealing technologies, and materials that dampen sound vibrations. Some doors are even specifically labeled as soundproof, offering the highest level of noise reduction.

By updating your door, you can create a peaceful oasis inside your home, free from the constant interruptions and disturbances of external noise.

Increase Your Home's Value

Opting for a door upgrade can lead to a considerable boost in your property’s market worth.

The front door, often a visitor’s first impression of a home, holds significant weight in the overall perception of your property. A worn, outdated, or damaged door might suggest neglect or older infrastructure, potentially detracting potential buyers.

Conversely, a new, stylish door signifies attention to detail, modern amenities, and a cared-for home. Many real estate professionals assert the importance of curb appeal, and the door is undeniably a centerpiece of this. Moreover, the added benefits of enhanced security, energy efficiency, and noise reduction that modern doors provide can further contribute to the property’s desirability.

By making this relatively simple change, homeowners can see a favorable return on investment, making the decision to replace the door both a cosmetic and financial win.

Final Thoughts on Upgrading Your Door

The significance of a high-quality door cannot be overstated. From ensuring safety and increasing energy efficiency to elevating curb appeal and enhancing property value, a door is more than just an entrance—it’s a statement of a home’s character and a testament to its resilience. Every homeowner deserves a door that not only stands strong against external challenges but also seamlessly aligns with their personal aesthetic.

At Signature Home Services, we understand this intricate balance. Our exclusive range of doors, sourced from the reputable Pella®, embodies a blend of craftsmanship, performance, and style. Here’s what you can expect:

  • A palette of finish options, from authentic woodgrain finishes to eye-catching colors like radiant teal, lets you infuse a touch of individuality into your home.
  • Durable, low-maintenance doors are designed to stand the test of time, ensuring your home remains secure and stylish for decades.
  • A diverse array of materials, encompassing steel, wood, vinyl, and glass, provides flexibility to match different budgets, preferences, and architectural designs.

Choose Signature Home Services – where quality meets aesthetic. Elevate your home with a door that’s both functionally impeccable and stunningly beautiful. Contact us today at (651) 424-1746, and let us guide you to the perfect doorway for your home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Changing the door is more than just a cosmetic enhancement. It significantly bolsters the security, aesthetic appeal, and energy efficiency of your dwelling. A new door not only gives your home a fresh look but also equips it with the latest in safety and insulation features.

The answer is determined by the extent of damage and the age of your door. Minor damages like scratches or small dents can often be repaired. However, if the door shows significant wear and tear, has outdated security features, or no longer fits the aesthetic of your home, it’s advisable to consider a replacement for a comprehensive blend of functionality and aesthetic appeal.

The front door is paramount in home design and function. It’s often the first element visitors notice, setting the tone for the rest of your home. Beyond aesthetics, a front door plays a critical role in ensuring the safety of the household and contributes to overall energy efficiency, making it a multifaceted component of any residence.

Philosophically, doors represent opportunities, choices, and transitions we encounter in life’s journey. In a practical sense, in our homes, they are vital for ensuring privacy, maintaining security, and providing insulation against external elements. Doors, in essence, shield us and open up avenues, both metaphorically and literally.



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3 Reasons Replacement Windows Aren’t a DIY Project

3 Reasons Replacement Windows Aren’t a DIY Project

As a homeowner, you look for ways to save money on home improvement projects. If you are like many homeowners, cost savings seems to trump quality, which isn’t a rational way of thinking. In fact, in recent years, do-it-yourself (DIY) projects have become mainstream because homeowners perceive they save money by doing home improvement projects themselves. Some homeowners have tried to DIY replacement windows, with no experience in home improvement. On the surface, it may seem like replacement windows are cost-effective, but DIY projects can cost you extra money and countless hours.

DIYing Replacement Windows Can Lead to Increased Energy Consumption

With no knowledge of the industry, you could choose replacement windows that aren’t efficient. Instead of investing in replacement windows that create value, many people purchase replacement windows that are low cost. They let their wallets determine what window is best for their installation. By doing so, they may purchase a window that allows energy to escape from their home. Over the years, inefficient windows can cost them thousands of dollars by increasing their electric or gas bills.

A Poor Installation Can Damage Energy-Efficient Windows

Even DIYers who have researched energy-efficient windows on the market can make mistakes with the installation. In the construction industry, best practices and knowledge about the delicate components of windows help homeowners protect their home and save money on their energy bills. However, inexperienced window installers possess just enough knowledge to be dangerous. If you are considering a DIY replacement window project, don’t try it. You may damage the seal of your windows and permanently destroy the hermetic seal, which defeats the purpose of buying energy-efficient windows.

DIY REPLACEMENT WINDOWS MAY PRESENT A SECURITY RISK

Your home is your fortress from the uncertainty of the world beyond your doors and windows. Your security depends on the efficacy of your doors and windows. If you install replacement windows without knowing how to secure them, you could inadvertently help a burglar gain access to your home. Installing replacement windows takes precision. Your windows must be level and fit perfectly to ensure your protection. If you unknowingly forget any security measures during your replacement window project, you undermine your home’s security.

At Signature Home Services, we specialize in replacement windows. We are keenly aware of the dangers of failing to install a window properly. We also are aware of the residual costs of installing the wrong windows. If you want to protect your home and reap the rewards of energy-efficient windows, we encourage you to contact us today to get a quote.

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5 Reasons Why Your Home Insurance Provider Denies Your Storm Damage Claim

5 Reasons Why Your Home Insurance Provider Denies Your Storm Damage Claim

You’ve just weathered a significant storm, and now you’re faced with the overwhelming task of cleaning up and repairing your home. You’ve paid your insurance premiums faithfully, expecting that you’ll be covered in a time like this. But then, shockingly, your insurance provider denies your claim for storm damage.

In case you’re wondering why your home insurance company denied your storm damage claim, here are five reasons.

1. Inadequate Documentation

If you’ve failed to provide thorough documentation of the storm damage, don’t be surprised if your home insurance provider gives your claim the cold shoulder.

When filing insurance claims, nothing speaks louder than concrete evidence. Insurance adjusters rely heavily on documentation when reviewing a claim. Without enough evidence, they might feel there’s no valid reason to approve your request for coverage.

As a homeowner dealing with storm damage, you must understand the level of detail required by your insurance company.

Too often, homeowners need to capture more visual proof of storm damage or keep detailed records of related repairs and expenses. Keep in mind that these documents serve as tangible proof for insurance adjusters who weren’t physically present at the time of destruction.

It’s crucial to take photographs or videos immediately after the incident and maintain receipts for any repair work or replacements caused by the storm. Without proper documentation supporting your case, negotiating with your insurance company could end up being a fruitless exercise.

2. Lack of Coverage for the Specific Damage

Surprisingly enough, not all types of storm damage may be covered in that nifty policy you’ve got tucked away. Insurance policies can be complex and typically contain a list of perils or disasters they will cover. This is one of the common reasons why your home insurance provider might deny your storm damage claim. Understanding these exclusions is crucial, as any damage caused by them won’t qualify for compensation.

For example, standard homeowners policies usually don’t cover flood damage, even if it’s from a storm.

Therefore, before disaster strikes, scrutinize your coverage limit and the specific perils included in your policy. If particular storms aren’t covered under your existing policy and are common in your area, consider purchasing additional coverage to protect yourself against those risks. If you fail to do so and later file a claim for an excluded peril, expect the insurance provider to deny it immediately!

Understanding the specifics of what’s covered can save you when dealing with insurance providers regarding storm damage claims.

Learn about How to Protect your Home from Windstorm Damage

3. Failure to Report the Damage on Time

Insurance companies include a specific timeline for reporting damages to prevent fraudulent claims and ensure an accurate assessment of the losses incurred due to natural disasters. They expect you to take the necessary steps immediately after noticing any destruction to your property or dwelling. Not sticking within this timeframe may give them grounds for denying your claim.

So even amidst the chaos and confusion post-storm, remember that time doesn’t stop for anyone – not even when dealing with roof leaks or water damage from a recent storm.

4. Pre-existing Damage or Wear and Tear

You’ve been paying those premiums faithfully, believing that when the day comes, they will have your back. Yet, here you are, facing a denial because of pre-existing damage or wear and tear.

This is often due to what’s known as a preexisting damage exclusion in your policy. Insurance companies take advantage of policy exclusions like this one, allowing them to deny claims if there was evidence of damage before the storm. The rationale behind this is simple: insurance is meant to cover unforeseen incidents, not issues already present.

Dealing with such policy exclusions can be frustrating. However, it’s crucial to understand how preexisting exclusions work to deal with them effectively.

For example, suppose your roof was already in poor shape before a storm caused further damage. In that case, your insurer might refuse to pay for the total cost of repairs, citing it under pre-existing conditions. To counteract this denial, having repair records showing regular maintenance can be beneficial. Additionally, most policies will have a limit for items affected by wear and tear, so reviewing these carefully can help you know just how much coverage you have at hand against such damages.

5. Disputes Over the Cause of the Damage

Have you ever found yourself in a tug-of-war with your insurer over what caused damage to your property after a storm? One of the common reasons your insurance provider may deny your claim is due to disputes over the cause of damage. For instance, if water leaks through your roof and causes losses, they might assert that it was due to poor maintenance, not the storm.

In such cases, they can refuse compensation for repairs. You must take proactive steps to document everything post-storm. Take pictures or videos showing the condition of your home immediately after the event. This evidence can be vital when dealing with an insurance provider who disputes the cause of damage.

Furthermore, if you live in an area prone to certain types of disasters like floods or hurricanes, securing federal disaster insurance might be worth considering to ensure all possible damages are covered and reduce any chances for disputes with your home insurance provider regarding the cause of damage.

Remember, it’s not just about filing a claim but ensuring you get fair compensation for all repairable damages.

Tips for Appealing a Denied Claim

When you’re faced with a denied claim, it can feel like a punch to the gut, yet there’s no need to surrender just yet, as appealing is an option.

The first step in appealing a denied property insurance claim is to understand the acceptable reasons for denial; these may include disputes over the cause of damage, questions about whether the damage falls within your coverage limit, or demands for evidence you’ve been unable to provide. Be sure to familiarize yourself with your policy and its limits to argue your case effectively.

To increase your chances of winning an appeal, consider doing the following:

  1. Gather all necessary documents: Make sure you have all the documentation related to your claim, such as photos or videos of storm damage, receipts for expenses of repairs, and any professional assessments of damage.
  2. Strengthen your claim with evidence: Gather more substantial evidence to bolster your case. This might include having a professional assess the condition and value of damaged items or getting expert opinions on how much it will cost to repair or replace them.
  3. Seek disaster relief aid: If you are still struggling after exhausting all options with your insurer, look into government programs that offer disaster relief assistance.

Remember that patience is vital when dealing with property insurance claims. Insurance companies can take time to respond and process appeals. Keep detailed records of every conversation regarding your claim and proactively seek a resolution.

Signature Home Services: Your Go-To Source for Tips, Guidance, and Professional Home Remodeling Needs

At Signature Home Services, we’re dedicated to offering you invaluable advice, guidance, and professional services for all your home remodeling needs. Whether it’s a roof needing repair or a storm damage claim your home insurance provider denies for reasons you don’t understand, our team of professionals is here to help.

We know that dealing with insurance issues can be complex and stressful. That’s why we strive to make the process as easy as possible for you. We pride ourselves on being more than just a remodeling company; we are problem solvers who are always ready to assist in any way we can.

If your home insurance provider denies your storm damage claim, don’t panic! With Signature Home Services by your side, you’ll receive expert advice on navigating this situation effectively. Our experience and knowledge allow us to provide insights into the reasons behind insurers’ decisions and offer solutions tailored to your home remodeling needs.

So, avoid getting caught in this tough spot. Rely on Signature Home Services for expert guidance and professional home remodeling needs. Signature Home Services will stand by your side and do everything in our power to help with your insurance claim. 

Give us a call at (651) 424-1746 today to find out more.

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