by Top Form Contracting | Feb 15, 2022 | Dry Rot, Remodeling Tips and Tricks
Wood Siding vs. Fiber-Cement Siding: What Is the Difference?
It’s no secret there are many great type of siding on the market (and the same can be said about siding contractors). However, when it comes to your home or business, there’s a good chance you want to know more about the siding options available to you so that you can trust you’re making the right choice.
Two of the best siding materials are wood and fiber cement. In this blog, we’re going to cover some pros and cons of wood siding vs. fiber-cement siding to help you make an educated decision about which type of siding is best for your needs.
Let’s get started!
Differences Between Wood Siding vs. Fiber-Cement Siding
Wood and fiber cement are among the most popular exterior siding options for property owners. Each choice has its pros and cons. Here’s everything you need to know about wood siding vs. fiber-cement siding:
Wood Siding
Wood siding is applied to the outside of a building structure to provide protection from the elements. Wooden frames made from plywood line the exterior walls of most modern homes. Then, a house wrap gets installed over the frames for a second protective layer.
Lastly, the exterior walls are lined with wooden siding panels, which add style, insulation, and a third layer of protection. Most wooden siding panels are available in plywood, shingles, clapboard, or rectangular plank.
The benefits of wood siding include:
- It’s easy to replace.
- It can be painted or stained any color.
- It’s environmentally friendly.
- It’s generally quick to make wood siding repairs.
The main drawback of wood siding is that it can become damaged by termites, water, or insects. In other words, it is important to keep up with siding maintenance to ensure that no issues go unnoticed and that repairs are done in a timely manner to protect your home.
One thing you can do to maintain your siding is inspect it often for warping, dry rot, etc. You should also clean your siding one time every two years at a minimum. All you’ll need is a soft brush and lukewarm water with a splash of soap to get started. If you notice damage during your cleanings, you can call a siding repair specialist, such as Top Form Contracting.
Fiber-Cement Siding
Fiber-cement siding contains a combination of cement, cellulose fibers, sand, and water. Together, these materials provide the highest level of durability, flexibility, and protection. We often use fiber-cement siding on residential homes and commercial properties since it is long lasting, economical, and easy to maintain.
Here are some other advantages of fiber-cement siding:
- Unlike wood siding, it’s impervious to fire, moisture, temperature changes, and insects.
- It’s significantly lighter than brick and stone.
- Fiber-cement siding typically comes in clapboard and shingles, which can be painted.
- It can emulate wood and other textures.
What are the disadvantages of fiber-cement siding? All in all, it’s an incredible type of siding. However, it can cost more to install than other types of siding, aside from wood siding. Of course, this may pay off in the long run, as fiber-cement siding may also require less maintenance than alternatives.
At Top Form Contracting, we offer James Hardie fiber-cement siding, which is one of the world’s leading siding options. It’s known for its pristine quality and for being long lasting. (Learn more about our siding installation services.)
Is Fiber-Cement Siding Better Than Wood?
Both are great siding options. However, fiber-cement siding has been shown to stand up better against the elements and time. That means that if you value durability, fiber cement is a wonderful choice.
Is Wood Siding Cheaper Than Fiber Cement?
Generally, wood siding costs more than fiber-cement siding. However, the exact price varies based on many factors, such as who you choose to install your house siding and the amount of siding you need. It’s important to get a quote from your siding company before the installation so that you can ensure the job is within your budget.
At Top Form Contracting, wood siding repairs can range from $500 to $2,000 or more based on your needs. Fiber-cement siding repairs could be anywhere from $800 to $1,400 depending on the issue. Learn more about how we calculate the cost of siding repairs.
Schedule Your New Siding Installation Today | Albany, OR
Still deciding between wood siding vs. fiber-cement siding? No worries! Top Form Contracting is Albany’s top choice for siding installations, and we’d be happy to help you figure out which option is best for your home or commercial building. We’re a local, family-owned business committed to providing optimal siding services to homeowners and business owners in Oregon. Let’s work together.
Contact us online here, or call us today at (541) 926-4597 to request a free siding installation quote.
by Top Form Contracting | Jan 21, 2022 | Dry Rot, Remodeling Tips and Tricks
Should I Get a Dry Rot Repair or Replacement?
If the wood on your home feels squishy or looks decayed, you could have a dry rot situation on your hands. (Some other signs of dry rot include the smell of mildew or orange-brown spots or pieces of gray on the wood.)
This fungus moves fast from one part of a home to another, inching closer to areas of moisture. It is vital to fix dry rot right away to preserve the remaining wood and keep your home safe and intact.
Here at Top Form Contracting, we are experts in spotting dry rot and alerting our clients on the best course of action. In this blog, we’ll cover when it’s time for a dry rot repair or replacement so that you know what to do next.
DRY ROT REPAIR VS. REPLACEMENT
Dry rot expands at an alarming rate–as much as 80 mm daily. While it needs some moisture to grow, there doesn’t have to be much of it. In fact, as little as 30 percent moisture in a given area is the prime breeding ground for dry rot. Also, it only needs to be about 66 to 70 degrees.
It is generally safe to repair dry rot, but there are times when a replacement is in order. In either case, it is important to work with a professional who has the expertise to get the job done right. This can ensure your home is safe, as is everyone who lives in the home.
WHEN TO GET A DRY ROT REPAIR
If the wood is intact and sturdy with just one or two tiny rotted spots, a repair could be all you need. Dry rot repairs are also generally sufficient if the dry rot affects the siding or roof, as they do not affect your home’s structure.
As long as the dry rot is new, it shouldn’t be too difficult to repair. However, if it’s left for an extended period, it can move to the framing and cause you to have to consider other options. (The right contractor will know how to repair rotting wood without replacing it.)
Just remember that you must get rid of the dry rot and any damage completely before starting the repair process. (Have questions about how to prevent dry rot? Check out our blog here.)
WHEN TO GET A DRY ROT REPLACEMENT
It’s true that dry rot is generally safe to repair. However, it’s a good idea to replace the wood affected by dry rot if it is vital to your home’s structure. Some examples include beams and floorboards–in addition to framing.
Why is it important to replace the wood if dry rot affects these places? As we mentioned before, dry rot is a fungus, meaning that it starts small and enlarges fast, moving throughout your home. If you wait to replace the wood until it’s too late, the dry rot can cause great damage and lead to high repair costs.
At Top Form Contracting, we aim to help you avoid structural damage by repairing the wood or replacing the wood–whatever is necessary for a given circumstance. Our team will ensure that you never have to stress about whether the dry rot is gone. You can trust that we’ll handle it.
GET A FREE ESTIMATE TODAY FROM OUR DRY ROT REPAIR CONTRACTORS IN ALBANY, OR
Whether you’re due for a dry rot repair or replacement, the first thing to do is remove any dry rot present in or on your home. A professional dry rot repair specialist, such as ourselves, can take care of this for you, making sure that no dry rot is left behind that could damage your home.
Rotted wood can indeed be repaired, but we don’t recommend treating it yourself. Instead of figuring out the specifics on how to remove dry rot safely, solicit the help of a friendly local contractor.
Top Form Contracting offers multiple years of experience in dry rot fixes, and we’d be happy to come to your home and let you know the damage. Then, if you’d like us to move forward with the repair, just ask. We’re here to help.
Need an affordable contractor who can take care of your dry rot repairs? Top Form Contracting is the place to call. Reach out to our Albany-based team online today, or give us a call at (541) 926-4597 for a free estimate.
by Top Form Contracting | Jan 12, 2022 | Dry Rot, Remodeling Tips and Tricks
DRY ROT FIXES: WHAT WE DO AND WHY IT’S IMPORTANT
Dry rot is a form of fungal growth that affects both homes and businesses. It proliferates in humid areas, causing timber decay, which weakens a building’s structure.
Fortunately, there are noticeable, telltale signs of this fungal infestation, and dry rot fixes and treatment are possible in the hands of highly qualified experts. Identifying its presence early on can help treatment programs to be more cost-effective.
Read on to understand how to identify dry rot and what measures experts take to repair this problem.
DRY ROT FIXES: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW
Dry rot appears when particular types of fungus infect the wood in your home, stripping away its toughness. It’s a common problem in the Pacific Northwest since fungus thrives in moist environments.
Infected wood can be challenging to detect because it commonly appears beneath floorboards and behind plaster. It can also materialize on timber in your patio, attic, roof, deck, or outdoor steps.
Since dry rot can appear so easily on wood, it is important to be aware of the ins and outs of dry rot fixes.
CAUSES OF DRY ROT
Lack of ventilation and humidity of around 18 to 30 percent can create the ideal damp environment for fungus and, ultimately, dry rot. Your home might be susceptible to dry rot issues if the following conditions are present:
- Presence of moisture in the environment
- Timber material used in the home
- Inadequate ventilation
- Dry rot spores*
*Dry rot spores are usually harmless and present in most homes, but if your property has wood and a moist environment, the fungus can multiply and develop into a dry rot infestation.
HOW TO IDENTIFY DRY ROT
Detecting dry rot in the beginning stages is critical for lowering repair costs and reducing the level of damage to your home. The best thing to do is walk around your property and look for signs so that you can take action.
The wood in your house could be experiencing dry rot if you notice the following:
- A damp, musty odor
- Brittle, dry, and powdery-looking wood
- Gray, silk-like strands coating the timber
- Concentrated patches of spore dust
- Mushroom-like fruiting bodies
Want the best dry rot prevention tips? Check out our blog here.
HOW TO REPAIR ROTTING WOOD WITHOUT REPLACING IT
Once you identify dry rot in your home, you must act fast. If you don’t, the infection can spread further and severely damage your home’s foundation and structure.
While you must act immediately to repair rotting wood in your home, you shouldn’t panic. Even if you can’t locate the moisture source causing the dry rot, professional dry rot repair contractors, such Top Form Contracting in Albany, OR, can help.
It’s always best to trust the experts who know how to fix dry rot siding and offer you the best solutions, from locating the source of the moisture to taking care of the repairs.
As your dry rot repair experts, we will first analyze if it’s possible to repair the compromised timber or if it needs complete removal. If it only needs a repair, we will present you with a suitable treatment plan. Then, we will start by using fungicidal spray on the affected areas to repair the decorative wood and structural timber.
CONSULT ONE OF THE TOP DRY ROT REPAIR CONTRACTORS IN ALBANY TODAY
Living with dry rot is not an option. Get help from experienced professionals who can deliver quality dry rot fixes and restore that area of your property to its former glory.
Don’t attempt to fix your home’s dry rot issue yourself. Top Form Contracting is here to help. Contact us today for a free estimate.
by Top Form Contracting | Jan 20, 2021 | Decking, Dry Rot
Deck Repair Services | Albany, OR
Your deck is an essential part of your home. It provides a great outdoor space for your family and friends to congregate, eat, drink, and enjoy nature from your own backyard. The additional perks and square footage your deck provides makes it well worth the upkeep and effort you need to put into maintenance every year.
With the right contractor by your side, deck repair is easy. Instead of DIY repairs and maintenance, working with a contractor gives you the chance to relax while someone else does the heavy lifting.
At Top Form Contracting, we have over 25 years of experience with deck repair, replacements, upgrades, and maintenance. We take great pride in helping our clients in Albany, Corvallis, and elsewhere in the area receive the superior deck repair and upgrade services they deserve.
If you are looking for deck repair in Albany, you’ve stumbled across the right contractor. In this article, we’re giving an overview of our deck repair services and the most common requests we receive from local homeowners.
Keep reading to learn about:
- Deck repair for both appearance and safety purposes
- How we help with dry rot and mold removal
- Why it is so important to stay on top of deck maintenance in the PNW
- How to get in touch with our team to schedule your deck repair in Albany
Deck Repair for Safety
One of the most important reasons why homeowners require deck repairs and maintenance is for safety. A chipped portion of wood, a loose board, or the presence of dry rot can become hazardous to your household.
Safety, as always, should be the top priority of any home repair or replacement. Depending on the age, brand, and material your deck is made of, it may be more vulnerable to water damage, mold growth, and other problems. It is important to pay attention to these factors that may make your deck more susceptible to wear and tear. If you keep up with regular deck repair and maintenance, you can mitigate damages and structural problems that can lead to injury.
Deck Repair for Vanity
Aside from safety, another popular reason why clients request deck repair is appearance. Sometimes, chips or dents can be non-hazardous but are simply an eyesore. If your deck is starting to wear, a repair or replacement can restore your deck back to its original look and feel.
In addition to deck repair, we also perform deck replacements and installations. When deck repair costs exceed the price or value of a new deck, it is usually best to invest in a brand new deck altogether.
Dry Rot Repair
One of the most common problems that homeowners may encounter with their decks is dry rot. Especially in the Pacific Northwest, wood and other finishes are prone to mold growth due to the excess moisture year-round.
You may have dry rot if you notice the following signs:
- Dry or brittle timber
- Fine, grey strands coating the timber
- A damp or musty smell
- Mushroom-like or soft, fleshy, pancake-shaped patches
- Red dust covering the area around the fruiting body
If you notice any of the following signs, you need to take it seriously. Dry rot can potentially lead to structural damage of both your deck and home. It can spread to surfaces other than wood and at its worst, its presence can make you and your family sick.
If you request deck repair for dry rot from our team, we will confirm the presence of dry rot, diagnose the severity of the issue, and provide the most effective solution. The most important thing to keep in mind when it comes to dry rot is that if it is not treated properly, it can quickly return or even spread and worsen.
We use industry-standard treatments and techniques to safely and effectively remove dry rot. Experience counts when it comes to dry rot removal and we have the solutions needed to take care of the problem once and for all.
Learn more on our dry rot repair page.
Request Deck Repair Services in Albany
Top Form Contracting is your go-to contractor for deck repair in Albany, Oregon and other surrounding cities. We have all the tools and skills necessary to repair, replace, and maintain your deck through every season. Rain or shine, we show up and get the job done — so you can enjoy your outdoor space to the fullest!
Our team treats our clients like family. We know when it comes to your home, your deck repair is more than just another task on your to-do list. It is imperative to work with a skilled contractor that can ensure your deck repair will withstand the elements and serve your family well for years to come.
If you are ready to get started with deck repair in Albany for your home, business, or multi-family complex, get in touch with Top Form Contracting today!
To request deck repair in Albany, fill out our contact form on our Contact Page . Or, give us a call at (541) 926-4597.
Learn more about our other great home maintenance and remodeling services on the following pages:
Siding Installation
Dry Rot Repair
Commercial Services
Handyman Services
Schedule your Deck Repair in Albany today: (541) 926-4597
by Top Form Contracting | Oct 20, 2020 | Dry Rot
Dry rot is a type of wood decay or fungus that is the bane of homeowners’ existence. This particularly invasive fungus can ruin wooden structures in and around your home. The fungus breaks down the components in wood, leaving it brittle and weak.
Excessive moisture, improper maintenance, and other factors lead to dry rot and all the headaches that come along with it. The good news is, there are plenty of things you can do to prevent dry right or mitigate the spread if you notice dry rot in or around your home.
In this article, you will learn:
- How to identify dry rot
- 5 useful ways you can prevent dry rot
- How to fix dry rot if it is too late to prevent it
How to Identify Dry Rot
Identifying dry rot is easy. There are several telltale signs that indicate dry rot is present. You likely have dry rot if you notice:
- Decaying or damaged wood
- A musty or damp smell
- Cracks in the wood or timber
- Patches of orange or brown dust
- The wood is brittle or weak
- Greyish strands on the wood or timber
It is important to note that dry rot differs from ‘wet rot’ — another form of wood decay that results from excessive moisture. Wet rot occurs when the moisture levels on the wood’s surface exceed 50% or more of their normal capacity. Dry rot, on the other hand, can grow when moisture levels exceed just 20%.
Prevent Dry Rot with These 5 Tips
For dry rot to grow, excess moisture must be present. Therefore, the best preventative measures involve moisture control. Dry rot can occur both inside and outside of your home, so it is important to consider both environments.
By paying attention to moisture sources, you can control and stop dry rot. The following tips will help you reduce moisture levels and prevent dry rot growth.
1 – Seal Off Windows & Doors
Even a small crack in the flashing around your windows or doors can lead to moisture problems. Prevent dry rot by repairing any gaps that are not properly sealed.
2 – Check Your Gutters
If your gutters are not redirecting water properly or are clogged, excess water can leak down the sides of your home or make its way indoors. Clean out your gutters periodically and ensure that the drains and downspouts are clear to help prevent dry rot and fungus growth.
3 – Repair Roof Damage
Something as seemingly benign as a missing shingle or damaged portion of your roof can lead to major problems with dry rot. Moisture can seep in through cracks or leaks in your roof, turning a small problem into a major one. It is imperative to repair roof or shingle problems as soon as possible to prevent dry rot.
4 – Pay Attention to Wet Rooms
Your bathrooms, kitchen, and laundry room are prime locations for excessive moisture. Essentially, any room with a water fixture or water heater is at risk for dry rot. Pay special attention to these rooms within your home and request professional service immediately if you notice a leak or pooling water.
5 – Don’t Forget the Basement
If your home has a basement, this can be a prime location for dry rot growth. Humidity levels tend to be higher in basements, and mold growth may go unnoticed for weeks or months at a time. Keep moisture in check by sealing off windows and repairing any structural damages that may allow water or moisture to find its way into your basement.
Too Late to Prevent Dry Rot?
If it is too late to prevent dry rot, don’t panic. There are some great solutions you can try. When dry rot prevention is no longer feasible, you will need to treat the dry rot as soon as possible. Here are some helpful treatments for dry rot:
- Epoxy Treatments
Epoxy is a filler that is used to replace rotted wood that has been removed. Epoxy fills in the gaps or holes that are left over once the dry rot has been removed. This is a good solution for minor dry rot problems.
- Borate Treatment
Borate is used to both treat and prevent dry rot. It will prevent growth on new wood and kill any fungus that is causing rot. Borate is low in toxicity and does not contain heavy metals or copper.
- Professional Replacement
Sometimes, even your best efforts to prevent dry rot will be of no avail. If your dry rot problem is extensive or won’t go away with conventional treatment, it is time to call in a professional for an evaluation. It is likely that you will need to replace the wood that has been damaged.
Prevent Dry Rot | Top Form Contracting in Albany
If you need assistance with dry rot prevention or removal, we can help. One of our specialties at Top Form Contracting is dry rot repair. No matter what stage of prevention or repair you find yourself in, we have solutions that can help.
Get in touch with our specialists by filling out a contact form over on our Contact Page . Or, feel free to give us a call at (541) 926-4597
Professional Dry Rot Repair in Albany, OR
Top Form Contracting is your go-to source for dry rot prevention, repair, and more. Our clients in Albany, Corvallis, and elsewhere love working with our team — and so will you!
Our high-quality repairs and replacements always exceed customer expectations. Whether you are facing a dry rot problem or need assistance with home improvement projects, we have the team and tools you need.
To learn more about our home contracting services, be sure to check out the following pages:
Siding Installation
Dry Rot Repair
Decking Installation
Commercial Services
Handyman Services
For more homeowner tips and tricks, visit our Blog Page.
Get in touch with our team in Albany to get started with your dry rot repair: (541) 926-4597
