Stucco’s versatility and aesthetic appeal have made it a popular choice for centuries, adorning everything from ancient temples to modern homes. It’s one of the most popular materials requested in this region, and at Ram Builders Stucco & Exteriors we have your back. Over time stucco, like any other material, succumbs to wear and tear. The importance of timely stucco repair cannot be overstated—it safeguards not only the integrity of the structure but also the safety and well-being of those residing within.
One of the biggest dangers of neglecting stucco repair lies in the threat it poses to the structural stability of a building. Stucco, often used as an exterior finish, acts as a protective skin, shielding the underlying structure from the elements. When cracks and damages mar its surface, water infiltration becomes a perilous consequence. Water, seemingly innocuous, is a relentless foe. It seeps into crevices, infiltrating the very foundation of a building. Over time, this moisture weakens the structure, eroding its strength like a persistent tide wearing down cliffs of stone.
The consequences of this erosion can be catastrophic. A weakened structure is more susceptible to collapses, endangering lives and causing irreparable damage. The tragedy is not limited to the physical realm alone. The emotional and financial toll of such an event can be devastating, leaving families displaced and communities shattered.
Beyond the immediate threat to the structure, the aesthetic value of a building cannot be disregarded. Our homes are not just shelters; they are reflections of our identity, our taste, and our pride. Cracked and deteriorating stucco mars the visual appeal, diminishing the grandeur of even the most exquisite architectural designs. Timely stucco repair rejuvenates the facade, breathing life back into the building and preserving its visual allure.
Additionally, the financial implications of stucco neglect are considerable. What starts as a minor crack, if left unattended, can escalate into a major repair project, demanding substantial financial resources. The longer the repair is postponed, the more extensive and costly it becomes. Procrastination in stucco repair is akin to playing a perilous game with one’s finances, inviting a financial storm that could have been averted with timely intervention.
Beyond the specter of danger and financial strain, stucco repair offers a plethora of benefits. One of the primary advantages lies in the insulation properties of stucco. Properly maintained stucco acts as an excellent insulator, regulating indoor temperatures and reducing energy consumption. This not only translates into lower utility bills but also contributes to environmental conservation by decreasing the demand for energy resources.
Furthermore, stucco repair enhances the longevity of a building. Just as a stitch in time saves nine, a repair in time can add years, if not decades, to the life of a structure. Regular maintenance, including prompt stucco repair, is akin to providing a building with the elixir of longevity, ensuring it stands tall against the test of time.
Keeping on top of stucco repair and maintenance is critical. It’s a process that weaves together the elements of safety, aesthetics, and financial prudence. Neglecting this essential aspect is akin to inviting disaster into our homes. Don’t wait for the cracks to deepen and the damages to escalate. Instead, be proactive in your approach, tending to the needs of your buildings with care and dedication. In these conscientious efforts, we not only preserve the physical structure but also nurture the sense of security and pride that our homes bestow upon us. To schedule your consultation for stucco repair today, get in touch with Ram Builders Stucco & Exteriors.
Decks are in charge of extending homes into the great outdoors—and RAM Builders Stucco & Exteriors can make sure yours is safe. Whether it's a morning cup of coffee as the sun rises or a starlit dinner under the night sky, decks offer an unparalleled connection to nature. Yet, beneath their charm lies a vulnerability – the constant battle against the elements. Rain, sun, and snow, the very elements that make our world beautiful, can wreak havoc on a deck's integrity. That's where the art and science of deck waterproofing come into play, preserving our outdoor sanctuaries and ensuring they stand the test of time.
Deck waterproofing is not merely a functional necessity; it's a testament to human ingenuity. It's the craft of protecting our outdoor spaces from the relentless onslaught of moisture – the silent adversary that can lead to rot, decay, and structural damage. The process involves applying specialized coatings and sealants to create an impermeable barrier, shielding the deck from rainwater, snowmelt, and morning dew. It's a meticulous process that demands attention to detail and an understanding of the unique characteristics of the deck's material.
Wood, a popular choice for decks due to its natural beauty, is particularly vulnerable to moisture. When exposed to the elements, wood absorbs water, leading to swelling, warping, and eventual decay. Waterproofing wood decks involves the application of sealants that penetrate the wood's fibers, creating a shield against water intrusion. These sealants not only protect the wood but also enhance its natural color and texture, ensuring that the deck remains visually appealing for years to come.
Composite decks, crafted from a blend of wood fibers and plastic, offer durability and low maintenance. However, even composite materials are not entirely immune to moisture. Water can seep into the gaps between composite boards, leading to mold growth and structural issues. Deck waterproofing solutions for composite decks often involve specialized waterproofing membranes that are installed between the boards, creating a seamless barrier against moisture infiltration.
Beyond the functional aspects, deck waterproofing is an opportunity for creativity and customization. Waterproofing materials come in a variety of finishes, from clear sealants that preserve the deck's natural appearance to tinted coatings that add a touch of color. Homeowners can choose from matte, satin, or glossy finishes, tailoring the deck's aesthetic to complement the overall design of the home and the surrounding landscape. It's a chance to transform the deck into a visual masterpiece, enhancing its allure while ensuring its longevity.
In addition to protecting the deck's structural integrity, waterproofing also safeguards the investments made in outdoor furniture, grills, and other accessories. Moisture can seep into furniture cushions and upholstery, leading to mold and mildew growth. Waterproofed decks provide a dry environment, ensuring that outdoor furnishings remain comfortable and inviting. Moreover, a waterproofed deck is easier to clean and maintain, reducing the time and effort required for regular upkeep.
The benefits of deck waterproofing extend beyond immediate advantages. A well-maintained, waterproofed deck adds significant value to the property. In the real estate market, outdoor spaces are often a deal-breaker or a deal-maker. A meticulously waterproofed deck enhances the home's curb appeal, making it more enticing to potential buyers. It's an investment that not only pays off in the short term by ensuring the deck's longevity but also in the long term by increasing the property's market value.
Furthermore, deck waterproofing contributes to sustainable living. By preserving the deck and its accessories, homeowners reduce the need for replacements, minimizing the demand for new materials and the environmental impact associated with their production. Waterproofing also prevents water damage, which can lead to the growth of mold and mildew – environmental hazards that can affect indoor air quality. By protecting the deck, homeowners are indirectly safeguarding the well-being of their families and the environment.
In essence, deck waterproofing is a harmonious blend of artistry and functionality. It's a meticulous process that transforms vulnerable outdoor spaces into resilient sanctuaries. It's the fusion of science and creativity, ensuring that our decks not only endure the elements but also captivate the senses. The preserved deck becomes more than a mere extension of the home; it becomes a testament to human craftsmanship and a sanctuary where memories are made, and moments are cherished.
As we revel in the splendor of our outdoor havens, let’s not forget the silent guardians – the waterproofing coatings and sealants that work tirelessly beneath the surface. They are the unsung heroes, preserving paradise against the whims of weather and time. Deck waterproofing is more than a practical necessity; it's a celebration of the enduring bond between humans and nature, ensuring that our outdoor spaces remain vibrant, inviting, and resilient, standing as testaments to the artistry of preservation in the face of the elements. Contact RAM Builders Stucco & Exteriors to schedule your consultation and quote.
Your home is a sanctuary, a place of comfort and security. Ensuring its structural integrity and aesthetic appeal is essential, and this often involves paying attention to elements that might go unnoticed, such as soffits and fascias—that where RAM Builders Stucco and Exteriors comes into play. Soffits and fascias are not just functional components of your home; they are integral to its overall well-being. In this comprehensive blog, we will delve into the importance of soffit and fascia, understanding when they need installation, removal, or replacement, and why entrusting this task to professionals is paramount.
Soffits: Soffits are the underside of an architectural structure, such as a beam, arch, or overhanging eaves. In the context of homes, soffits are the boards that bridge the gap between the exterior wall and the roofline. They serve both functional and aesthetic purposes. Functionally, soffits provide ventilation for the attic, preventing moisture buildup and ensuring proper airflow. Aesthetically, they create a finished look, concealing the roof rafters and adding a polished appearance to your home's exterior.
Fascias: Fascias, on the other hand, are the vertical edges linked to the ends of trusses, rafters, or the area where the gutter is attached to the roof. They protect the wooden board from the elements and enhance the visual appeal of your home. Fascias play a crucial role in supporting the lower edge of the roof tiles and the guttering system, ensuring proper drainage and preventing water damage.
New Construction: During new home construction or when adding an addition to your existing home, installing soffits and fascias is a standard procedure. Proper installation at this stage ensures your home starts with a solid foundation, both structurally and aesthetically.
Home Renovations: If you’re renovating your home and notice signs of damage, such as rotting wood or pests in your existing soffits and fascias, it’s an indication that new installations are necessary. Modern materials like uPVC and aluminum offer durability and low maintenance, making them ideal choices for replacements.
Damage Beyond Repair: Over time, soffits and fascias might suffer from wear and tear due to exposure to weather conditions. When the damage is extensive and beyond repair, removal becomes necessary to prevent further complications such as water seepage and structural deterioration.
Outdated Materials: Older homes might have soffits and fascias made from materials that are no longer viable. Asbestos, for example, was once a common material but is now recognized as hazardous. Removing these outdated materials is crucial for the safety and well-being of your family.
Visible Signs of Wear: Cracks, peeling paint, or visible rot are signs that your soffits and fascias need replacement. Ignoring these signs can lead to more extensive damage, impacting not only the aesthetic appeal but also the structural integrity of your home.
Pest Infestation: Soffits and fascias, especially if made of wood, are susceptible to pest infestations. If you notice signs of termites, ants, or other pests, it's essential to replace the affected sections promptly. Pest damage weakens the wood, compromising its strength and stability.
Expertise and Experience: Professional contractors bring a wealth of expertise and experience to the table. They can assess the condition of your existing soffits and fascias accurately, determining whether repair, removal, or replacement is necessary.
Safety Measures: Working at heights can be dangerous, especially without the right equipment and safety measures. Professionals are trained to handle such tasks safely, ensuring not only their well-being but also the integrity of the work.
Quality Materials and Workmanship: Reputable professionals use high-quality materials and employ skilled workmanship, guaranteeing the longevity and functionality of your new soffits and fascias. Quality installations protect your home for years to come, providing peace of mind and value for your investment.
Remember, soffits and fascias are not merely functional elements of your home; they are vital contributors to its structural integrity and aesthetic charm. Whether you're building a new home, renovating, or addressing wear and tear, understanding the significance of proper installation, removal, or replacement is crucial. Entrusting these tasks to experienced professionals ensures that your home receives the care and attention it deserves, preserving its beauty and strength for generations to come. So, if you find your home in need of soffit and fascia services, don’t hesitate to seek the expertise of the professionals at RAM Builders Stucco and Exteriors. Enhance your home's beauty and integrity, and let it stand as a testament to your commitment to quality and excellence.
Many exterior remodeling upgrades can get you a 100% return on investment. So not only will you get the benefit of curb appeal, it’s also financially beneficial. Older homes often require upgrades to keep looking nice and structurally sound. Sometimes these can be minor, but you may eventually need to do something significant. Here are some ideas for major exterior upgrades that will turn your home from meh to yes!
Updates to make your home more efficient are great ways to boost your initial financial investment. Consider upgrading your insulation throughout the home. Maybe it’s time to jump in on a solar power system, which can save you money on your electricity bills and often adds value to your home’s worth. Doors also are an eye-catching upgrade that will improve the efficiency of your home, too. Replace your old windows with high-grade windows, which improves both looks and efficiency. A lot of older homes were built without the openness of today’s designs, but adding windows to a home is not as complicated as you may think and drastically changes an outdated home.
Old siding can show its age. Consider installing new, higher quality siding that has a better record for longevity. If your stucco is starting to crack or discolor, you can often remedy it with a new paint job. But if there are other issues, you’ll want to fix them before repainting. Brick homes are a bit tougher to change, but consider painting the brick, which is a popular option. If you’re not ready for that leap, the windows and doors mentioned above will likely bring you that change you crave while also keeping the brick untouched.
Adding a charming deck or porch can do wonders for curb appeal, plus you’re sure to enjoy evenings relaxing outside on your new space. On the flipside, maybe you have a deck or porch already that is run down and not getting used. These often become collection spaces for debris or toys and can be an eyesore. Either fix them up and make them usable again or get rid of it and plant some maintenance-free landscaping instead.
Whether you love to entertain or not, having an inviting entryway is key to curb appeal. If your home doesn’t have an adequate entryway feel and you’ve always wanted that, there are probably options that you haven’t thought of. Get a professional to come out and give you ideas—you might be surprised about what can be done.
Your yard doesn’t need to be expertly landscaped to be beautiful. If you have time to get your yard Better Homes and Gardens worthy, we applaud you! But if you don’t, make sure you’re planting low-maintenance plants and that your sprinkling system works well so you don’t have to hand water what’s dying.
If you’re ready to make some amazing exterior changes to your home, put your trust in the experts at RAM Builders Stucco & Exteriors.
Roof leaks are frustrating, and the often can be costly repairs. Sometimes, they’re obvious, such as seeing water spots on the ceiling, but other times it may be trickier to notice a leak. Plus, even if you notice the damage, finding out where the leak is coming from is another mess of its own. Here are a few signs of a roof leak you should not ignore:
If leak repairs aren’t tackled quickly, even small leaks will lead to huge problems. From mold, rotted framing, destroyed insulation, and damaged ceilings and walls, the repair bill will only get higher and higher. Plus, the damage water does to a home can become a safety hazard. RAM Builders Stucco & Exteriors has handled some of the most complex roofing repairs in Utah. With something this important, only trust skilled professionals to make sure the repairs are complete.
Water getting into your home is typically not a good thing. Water leaks can cause damage to attic ceiling and floors and can trickle down into you walls or framework. Additionally, this water can pool and settle causing discoloration, mildew, dry rot, and harmful mold growth. It’s important to make sure your house is sealed up tight. Part of the proactive care involved kickout flashing, also called diverter flashing. Kickout flashing is a special type of flashing (thin material, typically galvanized steel) that is installed on roofs to divert rainwater away from cladding and into the gutter where it can drain safely. When kickout flashing is installed properly, it is excellent for protecting against the penetration of water into your home.
Some homes that see rainwater issues simply never had kickout flashing installed in the first place. Kickout flashing should be installed in places where a roof and exterior wall intersect or in locations where the wall continues past the lower roof edge and gutter. If this wasn’t done, rainwater may miss the gutter completely and instead penetrate the exterior and become trapped inside the wall. Kickout flashing should also be installed where getters end at the sign of a chimney. If you suspect water damage and don’t see these areas with kickout flashing, contact us for help.
Some homes may have kickout flashing but it was improperly installed. You can usually tell if this is the case if you notice water leaking through the seam. This usually is an indication that the bottom seam of the flashing is not sealed tight. Another sign of poor installation is if the angle of the diverter is less than 110 degrees. We’ve often been called out for repairs because a homeowner modified the flashing. Some homeowners find them unsightly, so they will shorten the kickout flashing to less than the recommended six inches (although some manufacturers will allow four inches). Doing this greatly reduces the effectiveness of the kickout flashing. You can check yours by making sure they are the same height as the side wall flashings. Sometimes homeowners will also cut them to be flush with the wall so they’re less noticeable, but this will also create water issues.
At RAM Builders, we use methods designed by scientists and engineers to ensure our kickout flashings are tried and true. Some contractors install or repair kickout flashings on the job by cutting and bending a step shingle into a diverter without sealing the cut. Doing this will cause the diverter to fail and allow water to get into the home. Fixing it correctly requires much more. Even small amounts of water can get behind stucco, which is moisture-resistant, eventually causing the wood framing to rot. Water issues can sometimes take years before they’re detected. Keep your eye out for discolorations, cracking, a stagnant water smell in your home, or rainwater pooling in unwanted areas. For the best kickout flashing installation and repair, only trust in the experts at RAM Builders Stucco & Exteriors.
Many people get worried when they are considering a home renovation project, and that’s usually because they’ve heard some horror stories from friends of family. But, with a good general contractor, the issues should be minimal, and the process will end up being enjoyable. Here are some common renovation frustrations and how to avoid them:
We know house projects are important, both financially and emotionally, and you want to ensure you feel good about a contractor before committing. Contact RAM Builders Stucco & Exteriors with any questions or concerns.
Exterior upgrades go beyond the structure of your home. This summer, consider investing in some various exterior projects that will bring you a good ROI. Here are some ideas.
For professional exterior projects, trust the work to the experts at RAM Builders Stucco & Exteriors.
Stucco is a gorgeous option for any home’s exterior. It’s durable and attractive, making it a wise choice throughout Utah. Even with stucco’s amazing quality, it is still susceptible to the forces of nature. Utah’s winter has been intense to say the least, especially if you live in the northern area of the state. The Great Salt Lake and all our other bodies of water will be grateful for the heavy snowpack come summertime, but our homes may not love it so much. Many homes across the Wasatch Front are likely to experience some sort of water damage from the melting snow, but we’re here to help.
Stucco resists moisture, but there is certainly a tipping point. If you notice bumps on the surface, those are early signs of water damage. If you don’t treat these areas quickly, your stucco can delaminate, which causes pieces to fall off. Once these pieces fall off, it exposes areas underneath the stucco, allowing more water to get in and more damage to occur. Sometimes this damage can lead to dry rot, which is usually an extensive and costly repair. If you notice bumps on your stucco, don’t attempt to simply patch it up unless you know for certain it will treat the whole problem. Rather, contact our professionals for an assessment and a moisture test. A professional knows what to look for to ensure you’re getting to the root of the problem. Often, the moisture is coming in from somewhere completely different than where the issue is visible, and in order to repair it correctly, the work needs to take place at the source. A proper assessment ensures the damage is treated at the root cause, so the same problem doesn’t occur over and over again.
In addition to fixing the cosmetic damage, a proper remedy may include the application of a drainage plane material to prevent more water from entering, the application of a vapor barrier to prevent vapor migration, improving sealant or implementing additional sealant, patching the areas where stucco has fallen off or is loose and cracking, and/or modifying weep screeds to ensure water is draining properly. Depending on the severity of the issue, one or all solutions could be required. Because of possible hidden issues, an expert is best for these repairs.
Repair costs will depend heavily on the extent of water damage and what materials will be needed. The good news is that often these repairs can be covered by your homeowner’s insurance. If you have a flood insurance policy, you’re likely doubly covered. If you notice any damage on your stucco, even if it’s slight, don’t delay. Get us out to your property for an assessment and tackle the issue before it becomes a major ordeal. Sometimes stucco can be damaged so badly, the only solution is replacement. We can help determine the best approach for your situation. Keep a lookout on your property while all this snow is melting and reach out to us with any concerns—even those beyond stucco.
Even if you are an animal lover, you probably don’t want wild creatures to make your home their home. Wild animals and critters can do some serious damage to our homes, and it typically ends up a very expensive and frustrating repair process. It’s common in Utah for rodents and small animals to get into homes, and if this is something you suspect is happening at your property, RAM Builders Stucco and Exteriors can help you repair the damage appropriately.
Rodents such as mice and rats can damage many areas of the home including electrical wiring and our belongings. But even more concerning is that they are also health hazards, leaving their dropping all over and carrying dangerous diseases. If you have a skunk stopping in, the smell can permeate drywall, furnishings, and the entire HVAC system. Racoons are common throughout Utah, and in your home, they will damage insulation, wiring, and ducts. They also carry similar diseases as mice and rats. Deer are also familiar faces throughout the Wasatch Front, and with the many heavy storms this winter, they’re staying down from the mountains more often. They may be cute but you don’t want to encourage them to get too friendly or rely on you as a food source. Deer often accidentally break through doorways and windows, causing damage to your home and to themselves. Squirrels and chipmunks are small and can easily get through gaps in your foundation, chimney, or ductwork. They will quickly burrow into your home and make a little nest for themselves and possibly new babies. These little guys carry diseases too and cause damage quickly. Birds, especially woodpeckers, are very hard on siding and shingles. When birds make nests in your gutters or on your roof, this can create damage, leading to leaks and drainage problems which only get worse over time.
To make sure animals aren’t getting into your home, trim any trees that are close to your roof, inspect your roof periodically, and keep your gutters clean. Install chimney caps and seal up any openings or gaps around your home’s exterior. If you have an attic or crawl space, check it out a few times a year to see if there are any animal droppings, torn insulation, moisture or mold growth, or signs of nests. If you suspect an animal has welcomed themselves into your home, call pest or animal control to get the resources your need to address it correctly.
Once the animal, or more likely animals, have been addressed, you want to be sure to handle the repairs appropriately so that the problem doesn’t happen again. Our team at RAM Builders can come to your property, assess the damage, and provide you with a quote for the repairs. Repairing animal damage should be done carefully to make sure there are no other access points for the animal or other animals to get in again. Exterior issues eventually affect the inside of your home too, so don’t ignore concerns for long.
