It is best to get two or three, not only to compare prices but also to get different contractors perspectives on the project.  You may learn something new, or find out some items that other contractors have left out of their bids or not even mentioned.  Doing this will save you money, time and headaches down the line.  Another thing is that you want to make sure of is that you are dealing with reputable companies. Any reputable business will be able to provide a list of references and previous homeowners that they have completed work for. You must  avoid at all costs hiring an unlicensed contractor for many reasons, to name a couple:

1.  You will be taking on personal liability should one of their workers get hurt on the job  and they are not carrying workers compensation.
2. If they cause any  damage to your home and do not carry liability insurance you are at risk.

Also, make sure to ask the contractor  to provide  proof that they have workers compensation and liability insurance. They should be able to support this with documentation. This is a standard request.

 The written estimate should also state if the contractor:

Is going to be providing a final set of  plans and/or specifications for your approval before construction starts.

Is going to allow for any changes during  the construction phase and  if those changes need to be made  in writing.

Will be providing a  complete, written warranty on the work and materials; and will be performing the  repairs if any problems should  develop during the warranty period.

Important Note:  Never pay a contractor a large portion or the full amount of the contract before the work is done. If necessary, arrange for partial payments at the end of various stages of construction. Make the final payment only after the job is satisfactorily completed. AVOID making payment in CASH. Always get a receipt of payment and keep all copies with your records.

 If you starting a  home improvement or remodeling project in West Virginia and are in need of a licensed contractor, Sun Comfort Inc. has been serving the community for the past 20 years and specializes in Room Additions, Kitchen Remodels, Bathroom Remodels, New Roof & Roof Repairs, Basements, Windows, Siding & MORE.

Please fill out the form below and one of our staff will contact you shortly or you or you may give us a call directly at 304-541-2540.

Before hiring a roofer, I always recommend to get a referral  from friends or family. If you are new to the Charleston area and just purchased a new home you should get  several quotes from licensed Charleston WV Roofing Contractors before deciding who to hire. 

So, how to you Find a Good Contractor? Some of the questions that you should ask should be:

• How long have you been in business?  You do not want to deal with a fly by night company. There are many reputable Charleston Roofing companies  to choose from. A roofer that has been in business for many years and has experience is preferred. 
•  Can you provide references? It is always a smart move to talk with other homeowners that can give you feedback on their experience.
• Are you licensed and insured?  Can  you provide proof of insurance?  These questions are important so that you are protected against any damage to your home.

 When you receive your quotes make sure they include the work that will be done, the cost, the time to completion and if clean up is included in the quote.   

Installing a new roof or a repair may require a specific building permit. So make sure the contractor is familiar with the local building codes and that they obtain the proper licenses or necessary permits for your job. During certain phases of construction inspections may be required so check with your local building codes to ensure the roofer is complying with all regulations. You may be liable if you are not in compliance.

Once you have chosen your roofing contractor and before you get started, GET A CONTRACT!  This should include all the details and specifications of the project,  time frame for completion, and cost. It should clearly specify the  payment terms and warranties. Make sure to  read the warranty to  make sure that you are  protected. 

 So, if you are ready to install a new roof or you find that your roof needs a repair, make sure you never rush into hiring a roofer before doing some research. A new roof is a major investment and a  roof repair can be expensive. So take some time,  look for a Charleston Roofing Contractor that has the experience, knowledge and references so that you know you have hired the right company for your job.

As we all  know, one of the most important parts of the home is OUR ROOF. It is the first line of defense against the outside elements and with so many options, factors and cost to consider it is important to understand which type will best suit your needs. 

I would like to talk about the advantages of  metal roofing since so many homeowners ask me about them. There are many advantages over other traditional roofing materials such as asphalt shingles and wood shingles. I happen to think based on our climate and geography; they are a great choice for a new roof in West Virginia.

As a life time resident and 20 year general contractor here in Charleston WV, I know the importance our roof plays in protecting our homes as well as keep our homes energy efficient to keep monthly costs down.

Metal Roofing happens to be one of the most durable types of roofing materials available. While they do tend to be a bit more costly, they will pretty much withstand all of the elements and last longer than most any other type of roof. They are highly energy efficient and are environmentally friendly since they are largely composed of recycled material.

WHAT’S IN A ROOF ANYWAY???  

Let’s go to basics… what is the job of our roof? Well the first thing is to keep away the elements, and the second which is just as important considering the economy and rising energy costs, is to conserve energy in our homes.

As a resident of Charleston, I know how hot the summers can be and this is where metal roofing can really set itself apart from many of the standard roofing materials that lie flat and conduct heat right into the attic. That causes your air conditioning systems to work harder and in turn energy costs will be higher.

 Metal shingles for the most part are designed and shaped to provide an insulating space between the roofing material and the sheathing underneath. This will dramatically change the level of comfort in your home and keep your energy bills way down. What it basically does is create a barrier between the outside and the inside, so it will have a major impact on how your indoor living climate is affected by the hot OR cold weather. It is just as effective for the summer as it is for the cold winters.

Green Roofing… what’s environmentally friendly?

 One MAJOR advantage that metal roofing has over other materials is that it leaves a much smaller footprint on our environment. The most common type of roofing material used today is asphalt shingles, which are petroleum based. The production of these shingles has a negative impact on our environment. In addition, once they are worn out (on avg. after 17 years) they will end up in our landfills which can take well over 20 years to biodegrade. 

On the flip side, a metal or steel roof will probably be the last roof you’re home will ever need. If a metal roof does need to be replaced (usually a life of 50 years) they can usually be recycled.

What does a Metal Roof cost?

While a metal roof can cost a bit more, if you actually factor the cost over the lifetime of the roof you will see that the COST vs. VALUE of a Metal Roof wins hands down over a traditional roofing material such as asphalt. Keep in mind, the average life of an asphalt roof is 17 years, and a metal or steel roof can easily last for 50 years. 

As I am sure you have concluded by now that I am big fan of the metal roof! So, if you are considering a roof for your new home or a replacement roof in Charleston WV or the surrounding areas please give us a call at 304-541-2540 for a free estimate.

 Sun Comfort Inc. has been installing new roofs in WV for the past 20 years and would be happy to come out and answer any questions you may have.

Hope you have a nice cool summer!

• What style will best suit you and your home?

Together the architectural style of your home along with the functionality you want your window to have should narrow down, if not determine the best window style for you.  For instance, a single or double-hung window is a very traditional design that is appropriate for nearly any style home.  A single-hung window only features one movable sash while on the double-hung window both sash move to provide easy access for cleaning!  Single or double-sliders are also a popular choice, but this style isn’t as traditional so it doesn’t offer the same versatility as the single and double-hung windows.  Sliders work best on ranchers or prairie-style homes because of the strong horizontal lines.  Casement and awning windows are also common window categories.  Both pivot on hinges and provide a lot of ventilation from a small window area.  Casement windows are vertical and swing outward while awning windows are horizontal and pivot from the top.  Both styles lend themselves nicely to 20th-century home designs, and are commonly seen along side a picture window.  The picture window is the simplest window because it is fixed, meaning it doesn’t open or close.  This type of window is used for light and views only which is why it is often paired with an operative window nearby to provide ventilation. If you select a window style that will meet your ventilation and lighting needs, offer the perfect amount of accessibility for cleaning, and fit well with your home’s design you are well on your way to selecting the perfect replacement window for you!!!

• Do you want a maintenance free window?   

The material that the frame of the window is made from not only impacts the windows effectiveness and its operation, but also the amount of time and money you will have to spend on maintenance down the road!  The three most common materials used when framing windows are wood, aluminum, and vinyl.  All three materials when used individually have pros and cons.  Wood, for instance, offers the most flexibility in design because it can be painted or stained to match your decor; however, you may not want to invest the time or money to paint the frames not to mention that wood can suffer damages from water and the sun.  Aluminum is the strongest of the three materials and factory applied paint finishes are extremely durable so you don’t have to get nervous every time a bad storm hits.  The drawback to aluminum is that like any metal it is a poor insulator and easily conducts temperature differences between inside and outside of the window which can raise your energy costs significantly.  The high-conductivity can cause condensation to form creating a whole different set of problems.  Vinyl frames require the least amount of maintenance, little to none actually, because the color is actually formulated into the vinyl!  This means that the color will never fade, so your windows will never need to be painted or stained!  Also, unlike aluminum, vinyl is an effective insulator and can offer increased comfort and lower utility bills!  Like the others, vinyl also has its downside.  Vinyl isn’t nearly as strong as either wood or aluminum, so the frames can flex and move in response to rapid changes in temperature.  If you require a window that has the energy efficiency and low maintenance needs of vinyl, but the strength of aluminum don’t be discouraged!  You may want to choose a vinyl frame with steel inserts to add strength and stiffness!  If your priority is the ability to frequently change the look of your windows, wood frames are the only ones that offer that versatility.  Selecting the best material can only be done be evaluating your individual wants and needs, but after doing this you nearly have your ideal window selected!!!

• Which glass options affect energy efficiency?

Believe it or not, there are several options regarding the glass in your window.  The single pane window is practically extinct and has been replaced with multiple panes, spacer technology, gas filled IG (insulated glass) units, and special coatings; all of which work together to make a more energy efficient window!!!  Don’t let all the options overwhelm you!  Remember to take your time making these decisions because they will eventually pay off in energy savings and increased comfort! 

An important component that affects your windows overall performance is insulated glass (IG).  IG is sometimes referred to as double glazing and means that there is an air space between the two panes of glass.  This space offers several advantages like: increased sound control, reduced heat transfer, and better condensation resistance!  To make the IG even more effective some manufacturers fill the air space with argon or krypton gas because they are less conductive then air, providing even more insulation between the inside and outside of the window.  The edges of the air space must be sealed properly to keep the window as a whole insulated.  Some manufacturers use the Intercept Warm Edge Spacer from PPG which is designed to keep the edges of the window warmer to provide superior insulation and to reduce the likelihood of condensation.  Another option for your glass is Low-emittance (Low-E) coatings.  This is a transparent metallic coating applied to the glass surface that inhibits a significant amount of radiant heat transfer and greatly lowers the total heat flow through the window.  This will prove helpful in the summer by reflecting the suns intense heat out, making hot sunny days easier on your air-conditioner, and in the winter by reflecting the heat back into your home, reducing heat loss!  You may want to keep in mind that windows with Low-E glass are ENERGY STAR-qualified products. 

Now that you know what style, material, and glass options are available you are ready to make an informed decision!  Remember one of the best ways to improve the appearance and increase the value of your home is to replace the windows!

Sun Comfort Inc. would be honored to come to your home and provide you with a free estimate and more information on replacement windows!  You can call us at (304)541-2540 to schedule an appointment.

The company that you choose will be in your home, amongst your family so keep in mind that you should always do your research when you are about to start a new remodeling project.

Here are some of the things you should consider before hiring a contractor: 

1. Find out how long they have been in business and if they are licensed and insured. You can contact the regulatory body that governs licensing for contractors in your state.

2. Make sure they are a reputable company and ask them to provide you with references from previous homeowners they have worked with. Make sure to follow up with the homeowners and ask for feedback.

3. Find out if they have workman’s compensation, general liability and adequate coverage. You can request that the contractor provide you with the details of the insurance companies so that you can check to verify coverage. Ask for a copy of these certificates and verify them by calling the insurance companies. The last thing you need is for a worker to get hurt while doing a job at your home. Let’s say you are doing a roofing job and a worker falls from the roof and gets hurt, If your contractor does not have insurance you can be held personally liable.

4. Make sure you get everything in writing and the more detail the better. It is key to make sure you are both on the same page as to your plans, specifications, timeline and materials being used.

5. Go with your gut… I know this is what your mother always told you but it is very important to listen to your instincts. If you have a weird feeling about a contractor but can’t put your finger on it… listen to your gut, take a step back and make sure you have done all your research.

In conclusion, whether you are remodeling your kitchen, bathroom, or planning for a room addition. Whatever your project may be, large or small, these simple steps will help you make the best decision.

As a licensed contractor for the past 20 years, I hear it all the time from my clients… I want to build a  “DREAM KITCHEN”.  Well, what exactly is that? It can mean different things to different people. 

Whether you have just purchased a new home or if you are thinking about a redesign or a remodel of your existing kitchen, it is important that you think about your style and how you want to use your space. Building your dream kitchen requires thought and planning and finding the right contractor is an important part of the process. It is important to take some time and make a list of the things that you would like your space to have.

Some things to think about are…Do you spend a lot of time cooking? Do you entertain often? Do you need a lot of counter space? Do you want an eat-in kitchen or would you like to have a breakfast nook? These are all questions to ask yourself and all things you should talk to your contractor about before planning your remodeling project.

So, if you are ready to start your project, or just in the planning stage think about your wish list and decide what is most important to you. There are many ways to update your kitchen without having to break the bank. Some simple updates that can change the look and feel are re-facing your cabinets, installing granite countertops or simply adding new fixtures and some fresh paint. One of the best investments you can make in your home is an updated kitchen. It is always the best room in the house to update to increase the value off your home for resale. We would be happy to show you the cost vs. value report when you are making your decision.

Sun Comfort, Inc. has been serving Charleston,West Virginia and the surrounding counties for over 20 years. We would be honored to be the contractors of choice to help you build your DREAM KITCHEN!

Please call us at 304-541-2540 or click the link below to send us a message, and one of our staff will contact you to discuss your needs. We will come out to see you, at your convenience, and help you from the planning stage to completion. We look forward to working with you!

Request Your Kitchen Remodeling Consultation Today!

Our renovation and home improvement services include Window Replacements, Siding Replacement, Room Additions, Kitchen Renovations, Bathroom Renovations, and Roofing. Our skilled craftsman pay attention to the details and our owner (on the job supervisor) makes sure everything is completed to your satisfaction.

Remodeling contractors reputations are only as good as the work they’ve completed on your home and the services they have provided you. Since 1990 Sun Comfort Inc. has been serving the West Virginia area with home improvement and remodeling solutions that work for all parties involved.

We look forward to hearing from you and hope you will choose the Sun Comfort Inc. Team for your next remodeling or home improvement project.

Click Here For a Free at Home Consultation Today!