Vinyl Siding 101

How can you defend your home against devastating severe weather? It begins with installing a roof system that includes a performance shingle that is impact-resistant and guards against wind, rain, snow, and extreme temperatures. Without getting too technical, it is important to understand that not all shingles are created equal. They can vary greatly in composition, color, and cost. Here are some features to look for when deciding on what shingle to put on your home: Impact Resistance Rating Hail-resistant shingles come with an impact resistance rating, which indicates their ability to withstand hail impact. Shingles are typically classified from Class 1 to Class 4, with Class 4 being the most resistant to hail damage. Given the varied climate in Nebraska, a Class 3 or 4 shingle offers the best protection and may come with a generous homeowner’s insurance discount. Granules The granule layer on asphalt shingles serves both an aesthetic and protective purpose. In hail-resistant shingles, manufacturers may use specialized adhesives or coatings to enhance the adhesion of granules, reducing the likelihood of granule loss upon hail impact. Granules should also hold up to extreme temperature changes and strong winds. Manufacturer Warranty Many manufacturers of hail-resistant shingles offer extended warranties specifically covering damage caused by hail. They also have a wind rating for additional coverage. Professional Installation The importance of professional installation cannot be underestimated. Manufacturer specifications must be followed during the installation process or the coverage of shingles could be denied, creating a costly problem for any homeowner. Also, many roofing contractors offer their own workmanship warranty, offering additional coverage. When considering hail-resistant shingles, it's important to assess your local climate and the frequency of hailstorms in your area. Additionally, consult with a professional contractor to determine what shingles best suit your type of roof, exposure, budget, and aesthetic concerns. Rubicon Roofing & Exteriors can expertly guide you through this process and professionally install a roof that will best defend your home against the elements. Call a Rubicon representative today to schedule a free consultation!

Board & Batten Ready to remodel? Replacing the siding on your home is an inexpensive way to update the look of your house and significantly increase your resale value. The options available are infinite! A popular trend is the addition of vertical siding, also known as Board & Batten, to your exterior design. It is a subtle twist on classic horizontal siding, but it adds a beautiful architectural element that complements and adds interest to your home’s curb appeal. Stylish & Versatile Board & Batten siding looks exquisite with a wide variety of architectural styles, so it’s versatile whether your home is craftsman, tudor, farmhouse, or any other. Also, mixing siding can help you highlight the features of your house – like adding different textures can draw attention to your windows or bring focus to your front entrance. Whether you envision your dream home in subdued hues with a smooth texture or you’re aiming for striking details and pops of color, the possibilities are endless! Durable and Sustainable Board & Batten is not only functionally beautiful, it’s also incredibly durable and environmentally-sustainable. Whether you go with fiber cement siding or select an engineered wood siding and trim, your home will be protected by the industry’s best warranties for heat, moisture, and hail on the market. Call a design professional at Rubicon today to schedule your dream home makeover!

Hardie siding, also known as James Hardie siding or fiber cement siding, is a popular and durable siding material known for its numerous benefits. Here are some of the advantages of using Hardie siding: Durable Hardie siding is highly durable and resistant to many common issues that affect other siding materials, such as rotting, warping, and insect damage. It can withstand harsh weather conditions, including heavy rain, strong winds, and hail. Low Maintenance Compared to some other siding materials, Hardie siding requires relatively low maintenance. It does not need frequent painting, and its color tends to remain vibrant for a long time. This can save homeowners time and money on upkeep. Moisture Resistant Hardie siding is engineered to resist moisture absorption, making it less prone to issues like swelling, warping, and cracking. This moisture resistance helps maintain the integrity of the siding over time. Versatility Hardie siding is available in a variety of styles, textures, and colors, allowing homeowners to choose a look that complements their home's architecture and their personal preferences. It can mimic the appearance of wood, shingles, or stucco, providing versatility in design. Longevity When installed and maintained properly, Hardie siding has a long lifespan. It often comes with warranties that reflect the manufacturer's confidence in the product's durability and longevity. Environmentally Friendly Hardie siding is made from sustainable and renewable raw materials, including cement, sand, and wood fibers. It is also durable, which means less frequent replacements, reducing the environmental impact associated with manufacturing and disposal. In addition to the benefits listed above, Hardie siding is also a barrier to pests and is fire resistant. It's important to note that while Hardie siding offers numerous benefits, proper installation by trained professionals is crucial to ensuring its optimal performance. Rubicon Roofing & Exteriors employs skilled contractors who comply with Hardie installation standards and practices. Call us today to schedule a consultation for your “last” siding project you will ever need! 

Notice moisture leaking through your ceiling near the exterior walls of your home? This moisture could be due to ice damming. Ice damming occurs when snow on the roof melts and then refreezes near the edge, creating a barrier that prevents proper drainage. This can lead to water backing up under the shingles and causing leaks into the home. Here are some steps to address roof leaks from ice damming. Remove the Snow If you are able, use a roof rake or a long-handled broom to carefully remove snow from the roof. This helps prevent the formation of ice dams by eliminating the source of melted snow. Clear Gutters and Downspouts Ensure that your gutters and downspouts are clear of leaves, twigs, and other debris. This helps water flow freely off the roof, reducing the chances of ice dam formation. Ventilate the Attic Proper attic ventilation helps maintain a consistent temperature on the roof, preventing uneven melting and refreezing. Make sure your attic is well-ventilated to minimize the risk of ice dams. Insulate the Attic Adequate insulation in the attic helps regulate the temperature and reduces the likelihood of snow melting and forming ice dams. Ensure that your attic is properly insulated to keep the roof surface cool. Use of Heat Cables Install heat cables along the roof edges to prevent ice dams from forming, creating channels for water drainage. Consult a Professional If you're experiencing persistent issues with ice damming and roof leaks, it's advisable to consult with a professional roofing contractor. At Rubicon Roofing & Exteriors – we can assess your specific situation and recommend appropriate solutions, such as improving insulation, ventilation, or making necessary repairs. Remember to prioritize safety when dealing with roof maintenance and repair tasks. If you're unsure or uncomfortable performing these tasks yourself, it's best to seek assistance from a qualified professional.

Fall Clean-up Checklist: Trim back tree branches and bushes that have the potential to touch the roof, windows, or siding of your home. Clear debris from outdoor vents and air ducts to ensure proper ventilation. Inspect and clean windows, checking for drafts and adding weatherstripping, if necessary. Thoroughly clean out gutters. Seal gaps and cracks around windows, doors, and where utilities enter the home. Check exterior lighting and replace any burnt-out bulbs. Performing basic fall clean-up tasks can help you protect your home from potential issues during the winter and ensure that it remains in good condition. If you experience any water leaks from snow or driving rain during the winter months, contact Rubicon Roofing & Exteriors for a free consultation.