In the first three months of 2024, tornadoes touched down in record numbers in Ohio, many causing significant damage. Not only is it unusual to have so many so early in the year—statistics show as many as 19 by the end of March—those that do occur so early in the year are generally weaker tornadoes that do minimal damage. Ohio has seen EF2 and EF3 tornadoes already this year.

With spring just getting started and anticipation of strong summer storms, damage to your home and property is a real possibility. The most vulnerable parts of your home are your roof and your siding, and you should rely on an expert to handle repairs. Here’s what you need to know.

Heavy rain, wind, and hail can damage even a sturdy roof.

Yes, an aging roof will be more vulnerable, but after a strong storm assume even your new roof could have sustained some damage. Take a walk around your home and look for roof shingles and other debris in your yard. You may be able to see missing or loose shingles on your roof and other damage, such as loose or missing fascia or damage to the chimney cap.

Remember, some roof damage can be difficult to see from the ground, and climbing on your roof is risky. Contact a roofing professional such as S & D Improvements to provide a close-up inspection that will identify shingle or metal roof damage that needs repair. This may include:

• Missing shingles or missing granules on shingles
• Loose shingle sections or areas compromised by wind
• Missing or damaged chimney cap or vents
• Loose sealant or flashing around chimneys or in roof valleys
• Damaged drip edges, fascia, gutters or downspouts
• Dents or damaged metal roofing impacted by hail or debris

Storm damaged siding can be hard to see

Like roofing, aging siding will be more vulnerable to wind and hail than new siding, but a severe storm can still take its toll. A walk around your home after a storm may show sections of aluminum siding flapping or broken away sections of vinyl siding. You may also see dents, cracks, or holes from hail. But some damage is not obvious, and even a small gap can leave your home open to seeping water, mold buildup, and rot.

To spot less visible damage, check your siding at different times of day and in different light – dawn versus dusk, filtered sun versus full sun. Also keep the following in mind:

• Depending on siding material, damage may be dents, cracks, or holes. Wood siding is more likely to show warping or cracking and will be vulnerable to mold or rot if not addressed quickly.
• Damage that appears cosmetic should be inspected by a professional, as even a minor crack or gap can allow moisture penetration.
• A siding professional will identify the most vulnerable areas for damage, such as parallel cracks, chipping at corners or edges, and peeling.

If your Akron or Canton area home has been impacted by severe weather, contact the experts at S & D Improvements. We have extensive experience working with insurance companies and repairing storm damage to your roof, siding, and windows.

 

*/?>

In the first three months of 2024, tornadoes touched down in record numbers in Ohio, many causing significant damage. Not only is it unusual to have so many so early in the year—statistics show as many as 19 by the end of March—those that do occur so early in the year are generally weaker tornadoes that do minimal damage. Ohio

Read More

Windows and siding rank alongside your roof for standing between you and the elements and protecting your biggest investment – your home. As climate change prompts greater efforts for sustainability and causes more severe storms, having strong, weather-resistant, and energy-efficient windows and siding has become a priority to protect the environment and conserve energy as well as keeping your home at its best.

Window trends

New or replacement windows are among the top choices for homeowners looking to save money and improve aesthetics. With regards to climate change, replacing old windows with high-quality, modern windows is a top solution for meeting sustainability goals. Meanwhile, trendy colors and unique styles and shapes are key features for curb appeal and resale value.

According to statistics, some 30% of heating and cooling escapes from buildings through inefficient windows. That means billions of dollars wasted on energy bills and needless burning of fossil fuels. Studies are showing high performance windows playing a key role in reducing carbon emissions.

Priorities for new and replacement windows in 2024 include:

• High performance double- and triple-paned windows that are lightweight and efficient
• Windows in unique and custom shapes
• Low maintenance, energy efficient fiberglass and composite frames in colors ranging from modern grays to soft greens and blues inspired by nature.
• Windows that can harness solar energy
• Smart windows with adjustable tints that allow voice control over lighting and privacy inside your home

Siding trends

Siding that can stand up to increasingly intense storms has become a critical part of new home building and exterior renovations. Homeowners and builders are favoring weather-resistant materials that are less likely to be damaged by storms and generally require less maintenance. Meanwhile, design choices are moving away from minimalism and towards classic styles that are nostalgic, unique, and eye-catching.

Look for these siding trends for their aesthetic value, strength, and eco-friendliness:

• Siding made from recycled vinyl, engineered wood, and fiber cement, which feature durability and the ability to mimic such textures as wood grain, stone, and brick.
• Texture and color that is center stage for siding and accessories, including incorporating color families for siding, trim, and roofing.
• Accent siding and installation that incorporates traditional horizontal siding with vertical panels, shake shingles, or fish-scale shingles on accent walls and gables.

At S & D Improvements, new and replacement siding and windows are available in a full range of styles and colors, with high performance features that provide the best protection for your home during the worst storms Northeast Ohio has to offer.

Contact our design team today to learn how we can protect your home with high quality siding and windows that will look great for years to come.

*/?>

Windows and siding rank alongside your roof for standing between you and the elements and protecting your biggest investment – your home. As climate change prompts greater efforts for sustainability and causes more severe storms, having strong, weather-resistant, and energy-efficient windows and siding has become a priority to protect the environment and conserve energy as well as keeping your home

Read More

As Northeast Ohio weather evolves from winter cold to spring storms, residents may be considering the condition of their roofs. Heavy rain, wind, and hail can damage even a sturdy roof, but an aging roof or one in need of some repairs will be especially vulnerable to spring weather conditions.

At S&D Improvements, we encourage residents of the Akron and Canton communities to get ahead of the weather by addressing roof problems now. A thorough inspection by a roofing professional is the best way to ensure your roof is sound and minor repairs are caught early.

Asphalt shingle roof? You can see these signs of roof damage or wear from the ground:

• Shingles that are curling at the edges
• Missing shingles, or sections that are hanging loose or at an angle
• A missing chimney cap or damaged drip edge
• Moss or algae growth on the shingles

Metal or membrane roof? Get an expert on your roof to look for these issues:

• Corrosion along the seams between metal panels
• Dents or bent sections due to impact by hail or debris
• Holes or blisters in rubber membrane of a flat roof
• Low areas where water pools and can seep into the membrane layers

Repairing roof damage or replacing a roof that is aging or significantly damaged will minimize the risk of storm damage to roofing materials and possible water damage to the building structure. If your roof does sustain damage during severe weather, it will likely be more minor and readily reparable.

Check your roof after a storm

Even if your intention is to repair or replace your roof, storms in Northeast Ohio have a way of sneaking up on us. Always take a walk through your yard and around your home after a storm to look for signs of roof damage.

Schedule a professional inspection if you see debris, especially large branches, in your hard or any roof materials from your home or a neighbor’s. Signs of damage to gutters, downspouts, fascia, or any nearby roof means the storm was strong enough to cause damage, even if you don’t see any damage to your own home. In cases of high wind and hail, a professional inspection is a must. Wind can cause damage at just 45 miles an hour. Even small hailstones can damage roof shingles if driven by high wind. Heavy excessive rain can get under shingles, especially if gutters are clogged.

Storm damage looks like:

• Missing granules on shingles
• Loose sealant or flashing around chimneys or in roof valleys
• Dented or hanging gutters or downspouts
• Moisture in the attic, especially at the site of the chimney or valleys

Call S&D Improvements for roof repairs in Akron or roof replacement in Canton before and after storms.

*/?>

As Northeast Ohio weather evolves from winter cold to spring storms, residents may be considering the condition of their roofs. Heavy rain, wind, and hail can damage even a sturdy roof, but an aging roof or one in need of some repairs will be especially vulnerable to spring weather conditions.

At S&D Improvements, we encourage residents of the Akron and Canton

Read More

Northeast Ohio ice and snow can make getting on a roof a challenge during the winter months. These same conditions, however, can lead to serious damage if roof repairs are delayed.

Your roof is what stands between your home and the inclement weather that can damage your home’s roof and wall structure. A loose shingle or cracked flashing will be especially vulnerable to moisture penetration, which can freeze and cause even further damage.

The good news is you can replace your roof in the winter. Take into account the care needed in these challenging conditions, and there are several advantages to replacing your roof during the winter months.

• Your wait time for your project is shorter – Roofers are generally not as busy in the winter months and wait time is significantly shorter than it will be in the spring and fall when homeowners with aging roofs try to get ahead of bad weather.
• Your roof will be ready for spring rain – Often, an aging or damaged roof does not become obvious until the first heavy spring rain. Get ahead of the rush for roof replacement and reduce the risk of structural damage to your home by having yours done in the winter.
• Protect your landscaping – Annuals won’t be planted for a couple of months and perennials and turf are dormant. With no spring blooms and flowerbeds and lawns firm due to freezing temperatures, there is less risk of damage to your landscaping from equipment and debris related to your roofing project.
• Save some money – Discounts or winter pricing may be an option when business is a little slower. Ask our roofing team about seasonal discounts and post-holiday specials.

Things to know about winter roof replacement

If you have decided to replace your roof in the winter, keep in mind that it will take some thought, planning, and flexibility. At S&D Improvements, our professionals can discuss your roofing options and the steps needed to ensure a safe and successful project.

• Your scheduled roof work will likely come with a caveat. For example, an overnight snow or ice storm or heavy morning moisture may delay your work by a few hours or a day or two to ensure access and safety of workers.
• Specialized equipment is a must, including fall harnesses and installation equipment that can operate in cold weather. Equipment that relies on compressed air, such as nail guns, may not be an option in freezing temps.
• If you are opting for a shingle roof, we take special steps to ensure your shingles seal properly in temperatures below 40 degrees. Extra care also is needed when cutting and nailing shingles as well as walking on them, as they can become brittle in cold temperatures.
• If you are staying in your home long term, you may want to consider a metal roof from S&D Improvements, as metal materials are minimally affected by cold temperatures and present fewer challenges during a winter installation.

If you believe you will need a new roof this winter, contact our expert roofers today for quality installation of asphalt shingle and metal roofing as well as inspections to determine whether your roof can be repaired. Call today to schedule roofing service and a free estimate from S&D Improvements.

*/?>

Northeast Ohio ice and snow can make getting on a roof a challenge during the winter months. These same conditions, however, can lead to serious damage if roof repairs are delayed.

Your roof is what stands between your home and the inclement weather that can damage your home’s roof and wall structure. A loose shingle or cracked flashing will be especially

Read More

For homeowners who stay in the same home more than a handful of years, replacing the roof is an expected investment. Making the right choice is critical both to maintain the integrity and value of your home and to avoid having to replace it a second time.

Asphalt shingles provide an excellent option for most homeowners because of the many color and style options available today and budget friendly pricing. Because they are durable even in extreme Northeast Ohio weather conditions, they continue to be the most popular roofing material for homes.

Types of asphalt shingles

Asphalt shingles are comprised of a fiberglass base coated in asphalt that is then embedded with mineral granules to protect the surface from the elements. Homeowners may choose from:

• Standard three-tab shingles or strip shingles for a traditional, uniform look. This shingle is the most budget friendly and lasts about 20 years.
• Architectural shingles, which feature texture and dimensions created in a thicker, more sturdy product. These shingles cost a little more but will give 30 or more years of service with proper care.

Adding color and dimension to your home has never been easier with a wide array of choices in asphalt shingle roofing in Massillon and Canton, Ohio, expertly installed by S&D Improvements. The great news for Stark County homeowners is whether you choose architectural shingles of standard three-tab, you are still getting a reliable, quality shingle that protects your home and fits your budget.

When you choose asphalt shingle roofing from S&D Improvements, you get:

• Choices in color and style that will enhance the look of your home and add to its value.
• Options for coordinating accessories in edging, gutters, siding, doors and windows.
• Materials that are compatible with all roof types, including low slope and steep slope.
• Expert installation that will withstand Northeast Ohio weather extremes, including storms, hail, and high wind.
• A low maintenance roof that will last 20 to 30 years.

Your roof provides critical protection for your home and family. Call S&D today for more information about all our roofing products, including shingle and metal roofing and roof ventilation systems.

*/?>

For homeowners who stay in the same home more than a handful of years, replacing the roof is an expected investment. Making the right choice is critical both to maintain the integrity and value of your home and to avoid having to replace it a second time.

Asphalt shingles provide an excellent option for most homeowners because of the many color

Read More

Northeast Ohio Roof Storm Damage

Your Northeast Ohio roof can be especially vulnerable to damage from spring storms. Even if you carefully maintain your roof and perform timely repairs, high wind, heavy rain, and hail can still damage your roof. You can protect your investment in your roof and your home by getting your roof inspected immediately after a storm.

Storm damage to your roof is not always obvious. Loose shingles may look fine if there is no wind to blow them and dents can be hard to see. Areas of your roof may not be visible from the ground, and in many cases, damage may take an expert to recognize. As a homeowner, the best action you can take is quick action immediately after a storm.

Look for roof damage after a storm

When your Akron or Canton area home is hit by a storm, assume your roof may have been damaged. Whether high wind, flying debris, or hail, once the storm has passed take a walk around your home and yard and look for the following:

• Debris on your roof or in your yard – Wind will have potentially taken tree branches or other debris across your roof and elsewhere, so any debris in the area could mean damage to your roof.
• Shingles in your yard – One shingle in your flowerbed, even if it isn’t yours, means the storm was strong enough to damage a roof.
• Loose or missing fascia, gutters, or downspouts – Once these items are pulled loose, moisture will be able to seep in along the edges of your roof.
• Check your attic for leaks – You will see evidence of a leaky roof in your attic long before you see the stains on your ceiling.

Even if all looks well on your roof, having your roof inspected by an expert as soon as possible after a storm is wise. Your expert roofing technician knows the type of damage wind and hail can do to a roof and how to find it and fix it before more damage can occur to your roof and home.

A thorough inspection by a qualified roofer includes getting on your roof and looking closely for shingles and flashing that may have been compromised. A shingle loosened by wind or missing granules due to hail strikes will allow moisture penetration over time, as will damaged flashing or sealant in roof valleys and around chimneys and vents. Your inspection may also reveal damage to the chimney that should be addressed by a chimney expert.

Don’t delay when roof is damaged by storm

If you even suspect your roof sustained storm damage, contact a roofing expert such as S & D Improvements, and alert your insurance company. The skilled roofing technicians at S & D will inspect your roof, provide an expert assessment, and work with your insurance adjuster to ensure your claim is filed and you get the help you need to repair or replace your roof.

If you are uncertain about the age or condition of your roof, S & D Improvements can help you determine how long your existing roof may last and if repairs may help your roof weather upcoming spring storms. Call us today to schedule your roof inspection.

*/?>

Northeast Ohio Roof Storm Damage

Your Northeast Ohio roof can be especially vulnerable to damage from spring storms. Even if you carefully maintain your roof and perform timely repairs, high wind, heavy rain, and hail can still damage your roof. You can protect your investment in your roof and your home by getting your roof inspected immediately after a storm.

Storm damage

Read More

Asphalt shingles are still the most popular material for residential roofing in Northeast Ohio, but many area residents are learning the advantages of choosing metal roofing for their homes and other buildings on their property.

Aside from its proven durability, advances in style and colors have placed metal roofing much higher on Massillon area homeowners’ lists for replacement roofing and new construction. In the face of harsh winters, high wind, and spring and summer storms, Summit and Stark County residents are finding metal roofing provides an attractive solution that lasts.

Advantages of metal roofing in Jackson Township

While some may be deterred by the higher price tag on metal roofing, the fact is, if you are looking for a long-lasting roof for any building, it is the most economical decision you can make. For homeowners who intend to keep their house long term, a metal roof means minimal maintenance and never having to buy another roof for that house.

There are other advantages too:

• Materials include steel, aluminum, copper, or zinc alloy
• Many color options
• Customized styles with many accessories
• Appropriate for standard, steep, and low-slope roofs
• Withstands extreme cold and extreme heat, as well as wind, snow, and ice
• Provides excellent insulation with an Energy Star rating

Metal roofing no longer has that strictly industrial look, adding beauty and style to any home, garage, or covered patio. The many improvements made in recent years also have made these roofs completely soundproof and well insulated, keeping homes and buildings warm in the winter and cool in the summer. With a lifespan more than double that of asphalt shingles, exploring the possibility of a metal roof for your Massillon area home just makes sense.

The skilled roofers at S & D Improvements can install your metal roof in less time than it takes to install a shingle roof. Your metal roof wears well even in high wind and blowing debris. Repairs, when needed, are typically quick and easy.

Contact S & D Improvements today for a free estimate on a metal roof for your home, garage, shed, or patio.

*/?>

Asphalt shingles are still the most popular material for residential roofing in Northeast Ohio, but many area residents are learning the advantages of choosing metal roofing for their homes and other buildings on their property.

Aside from its proven durability, advances in style and colors have placed metal roofing much higher on Massillon area homeowners’ lists for replacement roofing and new

Read More

Any roof is vulnerable to winter weather, but older roofs require some extra attention. Even if you have had your roof recently inspected, older shingles and flashing can be more easily damaged by wind and ice and are more easily penetrated by melting snow.

Additionally, older roofs are more vulnerable to snow weight. While colder temperatures produce snow that generally weighs one pound per inch, wet snow can be significantly heavier due to its water content. A strong roof can hold 20 pounds, but your older roof could collapse under extreme heavy snow.

If you have an older roof, vigilance is critical to catch problems early and prevent damage to the interior of your home. That means addressing the biggest winter threats to your roof. S & D Improvements is available to solve these issues ahead of a winter storm or in the event of an emergency.

Extreme snow fall

Large amounts of snow, especially in a short period of time, and heavy, wet snow can cause sagging or collapse with weak roof structures. Using a long-handled rake to knock off snow that is within reach can help lighten the load. In extreme cases, or if you observe sagging, call your S & D roofing technician right away.

Ice buildup

Even moderate amounts of snow can lead to ice buildup, which can be especially damaging to older roofs. Ice forms when warmer temps, sunshine, and heat radiating through your roof from the heated interior of your home cause the snow on your roof to melt and run toward the valleys and edges of your roof, where it refreezes. Freezing water seepage under flashing and shingles breaks and loosens these seals and allows moisture to penetrate. Snow melt freezing at the edges of your roof can cause ice dams, which prevent additional runoff from leaving your roof, instead pooling in low spots where it also seeps under shingles. Heat cables installed at your roof edges can help limit ice dams, but a sound roof and clear gutters are your best defense.

Attic moisture

Aging shingles and insufficient insulation are key factors in allowing moisture to build in your attic. Unfortunately, attic condensation often goes unnoticed as it leads to dangerous mold and potential rotting of joists, which will ultimately weaken your roof structure. The S & D roofing team will not only repair or replace old or damaged shingles, but they also check your attic ventilation system. Proper ventilation both protects your attic from damaging moisture and significantly lengthens the life of your roof.

Call S & D Improvements for all your roofing concerns, including an aging roof that needs inspection, repairs and replacement of shingles or flashing, and emergency services if you notice a leak this winter.

*/?>

Any roof is vulnerable to winter weather, but older roofs require some extra attention. Even if you have had your roof recently inspected, older shingles and flashing can be more easily damaged by wind and ice and are more easily penetrated by melting snow.

Additionally, older roofs are more vulnerable to snow weight. While colder temperatures produce snow that generally weighs

Read More