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.

Understanding Soffits and Fascias

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.

When Installation is Necessary:

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.

When Removal is Essential:

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.

When Replacement is Vital:

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.

Why Professional Assistance is Crucial

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!

Focus on Efficiency

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.

Siding, Stucco, and Brick

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.

Add (or remove) a Deck or Porch

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.

An Inviting Entryway

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.

Don’t Forget the Landscape

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.

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:

1. Going way over budget. This one happens way too often, and it’s really the result of poor communication and planning. Defining your budget with the contractor is imperative to the entire project. There are cases where contractors will get into a job and there is a major issue lurking below that wasn’t known before, which may require additional funds to correctly address. But, if you’re open with the contractor with what you expect, what you need done, and how much money you have for it, they will be able to estimate the costs and let you know if it’s feasible. Every project needs a little wiggle room, but it shouldn’t come out thousands of dollars more than initially discussed.
2. Discovering your renovation isn’t up to code. It’s frustrating to finish a huge project just to find out it isn’t compliant with city regulations. Minor projects don’t generally need a permit to complete or an inspection when it’s done, but if for major projects, you must make sure you check off all the boxes before, during, and after it’s completed. A reputable, licensed general contractor will know the importance of this and will make sure to plan for approvals and verifications.
3. Living in a construction zone for months. Some extensive projects may require you to relocate for a while, and if this is the case, you’ll need to be prepared before starting the job. However, we’ve heard stories of smaller to mid-sized projects taking over the entire house because the crew was inefficient and messy. This is understandably frustrating and not good practice. Discuss with your contractor beforehand your expectations for living within the project mess and make sure you feel good with their approach. You can check reviews, too, to see what others say about their work area.
4. Not being able to track down the contractor and crew. Many crews are likely working on more than one project at a time, but that doesn’t give them the excuse to start demoing then not show up for several day while you’re in a mess. You need a contractor that is reliable and will put your project on top of their priority list. Communication needs to be easy, the workers need to show up as expected, and the project needs to be completed in an appropriate time. You’ll know right away if the contractor is responsive and easy to communicate with, but you’ll want to take some time vetting their work before hiring 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.

1. Outdoor entertaining areas – Create a fun space for all your entertaining needs. A fire pit for roasting marshmallows, a covered cooking space with a high-end grill and some countertops, or a pool area with loungers are all great ways to bring excitement to your home.
2. Add some outdoor lighting – Outdoor lighting can really spruce up a home. You can add lighting on the actual structure of your home and/or opt for landscape lighting. Be mindful of what you want to highlight and where the lights will go best to accentuate those areas. Plus, a well-lit home deters burglars all while creating a lovely ambience.
3. Replace garage door and/or front door – You may be surprised to know just how different a new garage door and/or front door will make your home look. With the many styles and colors today, new doors on your home can pack a big punch. Remodeling Magazine came out with a cost versus value report and said that garage door replacements recoup almost 98% of the upfront cost, and front doors recoup about 76%. Instantly boost your curb appeal by upgrading your doors.
4. Lawn care maintenance – Last year, many Utahns had to forego watering due to our extreme drought. Even if we have similar restrictions this year (not likely), implementing a good yard care regimen can improve the value of your home. Even if you have some brown grass, you can still keep the yard tidy and clean.
5. Plant trees and update landscaping – If your yard needs a little more than just better maintenance, it may be time to bring in a landscape professional to help you map out a better look. Planting trees that look nice with your home and offer shady spots will create a more comfortable and put together yard.
6. Sprinkling systems – Hand watering is not something many of us have time for. If your property doesn’t have a sprinkling system, installing one is a great way to bring convenience to your schedule and is a good return on investment. If you have one, it’s a good idea to check it out each year to make sure everything is running smoothly.
7. Update the façade – Replacing siding may sound extensive and expensive, but it’s actually one of the most cost-effective ways to improve the value of your home. Updating your stucco, whether it needs repairing or a new color, is also a great way to improve the look of your home while also building value.
8. Add a deck or patio – Consider adding a deck or patio to add value and character to your home. A functional outdoor space creates an extra spot to entertain or relax, and homes with these added spaces typically see about a 76% return on investment.

For professional exterior projects, trust the work to the experts at RAM Builders Stucco & Exteriors.

Building your dream home or remodeling should be a positive experience. The contractor you choose will be one of the most important decisions you make on this journey. Your contractor should be excited to assist you in making your dream a reality. When you’re assessing contracting companies, here are some red flags to look out for:

1. Contract issues – A good contractor will have you sign a contract that is clear and fair. This protects them, which shows they care about their employees, but it also protects you, which shows they care about your relationship. The contract shouldn’t be confusing or rushed, and if you have questions, they should answer them honestly.
2. A very low estimate – Some contactors give estimates that sound too good to be true just to get work. This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t go with a lower bid, it just means to ask about the quality of their products and workmanship, to read their credentials and references, and to make sure they know your expectations.
3. They ask you to handle the permits – Getting the permits for your project is their responsibility. They should get all the permitting handled before they start the project.
4. No proof of insurance – A good contractor should be insured to protect their employees and their clients. If they can’t prove they have insurance or they expect you to be liable in any accidents, this is not good practice.
5. Cutting corners – Make sure your contactor doesn’t take shortcuts or buy inferior materials. Ensure they follow codes and the guidelines necessary for your project. We know no one likes to be stuck in construction mode for too long, but a rushed job is much worse.
6. Their homes haven’t lasted – If you’ve seen their work and it hasn’t held up, chances are they aren’t providing quality work with quality products.
7. Poor communication – Your contractor should be reasonably available to you and your calls. If you’re brushed aside or feeling like a constant bother to your contractor, they’re not treating your job as a priority. Be sure they’re communication is honest, clear, and open.
8. Large upfront payments – Most contractors require an upfront payment, but if it’s more than about 20% of the job, that’s a bad sign. Also, if they only deal in cash, that may be a red flag.
9. Their job site is not maintained – If they’re working in a mess and it’s looking hazardous, that’s a sign of sloppiness, but more seriously it means they may not be following OSHA guidelines for safe practices.
10. Poor reviews and complaints – Check online reviews and make sure the good reviews far outweigh the bad. If they don’t have any reviews to show, ask them. If they won’t provide any, be wary. You can also check the BBB to see if there are unresolved complaints against the contractor.

At RAM Builders Stucco and Exteriors, we take pride in our ethical practices and always strive to achieve exactly what our clients have envisioned. For quality work, reach out to us today.

When it comes to investments into your home, you typically need to balance three main factors: budget, function, and style. At the end of an ideal project, you have stayed close to your budget, the new project is functional for your needs, and you’re happy with how it looks. When all three priorities are met, you will be happy with your investment. But another consideration to keep in mind is if the project will add value to your home. Even if you plan to live in the home forever, you likely don’t want to spend a large chunk of money on something that won’t add value to it. Some exterior remodels or renovations may be necessary for safety or code requirements, and that’s a great time to consider upgrading rather than just replacing. If you’re looking at some ways to invest in your home to update, upgrade, make more functional, or to maximize ROI, here are some great ways to do that.

1. Exterior Paint – painting your property can be enormously impactful. Whether you have brick, siding, or stucco, a clean coat of paint brings a freshness to your home. Consider color schemes that coordinate with the style of the rest of your neighborhood, but don’t be afraid to try something that is eye catching. It’s a balance so take some time before you decide and be sure to look at plenty of idea pictures or spend a couple weekends driving around to see it in person.
2. Landscaping – You don’t have to compete for a spot in Better Homes and Gardens to have a lovely, landscaped yard. Sometimes people get intimidated about gardening, lawn maintenance, and yard care, and it can be tricky if you aren’t prepared for the work. It’s still possible to have a beautiful yard that doesn’t require too much effort. If you’re looking to boost your home’s value, spend a little time in that yard.
3. Front Doors – Because your front door is the entrance into your home, it should be welcoming and in good condition. Painting your front door a fun color is an easy way to update your home and isn’t too costly. You can also upgrade it to a high-end focal piece to really level up your curb appeal. If you have the space, consider making the entrance bigger and adding some windows to encase the door.
4. Garage Doors – Although this can be of a spendy option, it always pays off. Garage doors are large so they are a big portion of the entire home’s exterior. Today there are lots of options for garage doors—you’ll want to pay attention to ones that blend in with the aesthetic of the rest of your home and will last a long time.
5. Outdoor Entertaining Spaces – Grilling areas, outdoor kitchen, firepits, and patios set up for entertaining are in high demand in today’s home. Creating a fun space to gather with family or friends is a great investment for your needs today and when it comes time to sell.

For the best in exterior updates and upgrades, RAM has got your back.

The summer months call us to spend time outside enjoying the lovely weather and soaking up some Vitamin D. As you’re enjoying your outdoor time, maybe you’ve noticed a few issues with the exterior of your home that need to be addressed. Here are seven signs that your home could use an exterior renovation:

1. You feel like your home is looking dated – If you continually pull up to your house feeling out of place from the rest of your updated neighborhood, it may be time to give it a refresh. To keep your house feeling current and well loved, some exterior renovations may be necessary. It doesn’t always have to be a huge project, even adding some shutters or updating the address numbers is all it takes.
2. The paint is starting to chip or flake – If you’re noticing paint chipping or flaking, or maybe faded sections, this is a sign that your home is asking for some TLC. Often this is just a cosmetic issue and is relatively simple to fix. Before issues get worse, consider getting a quick coat of fresh paint on there.
3. The landscaping doesn’t match the home – If you’ve spent a lot of time and money on a beautifully landscaped yard, you’ll feel even more satisfied with the project if your home matches that look. If you’re home looks run down but your yard looks immaculate, it’s going to feel unbalanced.
4. You plan on selling the home sometime soon – The first impression of your home is the exterior. Realtors and buyers may not remove a home from their list because of an unattractive exterior, but they’ll definitely think twice about it. Even if you don’t plan to sell right away, if you know it’s in the cards sometime in the future, start with little renovations now and keep up on it so you can enjoy the upgrades before you put the for sale sign up.
5. The inside doesn’t match the outside – Many of us are guilty of spending a lot of time and money on interior updates while forgetting about the outside. If you’ve upgraded several areas of your home but have neglected the outside, now’s the time to remedy that. Curb appeal matters, so avoid putting the exterior on the backburner.
6. Pests or insects are getting in – Bugs do find a way to get into homes regardless of exterior quality; however, if you start to notice a shift and you’re seeing more pests or bugs than normal, it may be time to consider an assessment on the openings of your home like doorways, windows, or chimney crowns.
7. Your roof is leaking – Homeowners should never ignore a leaking roof, and it won’t simply go away or get better with time. We know that roof repair or replacement is intimidating but ignoring the problem will only create bigger issues.

Renovating the exterior of a home doesn’t have to be a dreaded project. Make it a rewarding and positive experience by using the experts at RAM Builders Stucco and Exteriors.

Love it or hate it, the painted exterior brick trend is here to stay. And it’s not just common with freshening up older homes. We have seen many people build brand-new, custom homes with a basic brick solely with the intention to paint it. Painted exterior brick can make a home look fresh, clean, and unique, sometimes even transforming the entire look of the home. We know it’s not for everyone, but if you’re interested in doing it but nervous about the commitment, here are some pros and cons to help you make your decision:

Pros of painting your brick

1. Painted brick can boost your curb appeal. If you have a brick home and you just don’t love the color of it or the brick is very outdated, there are numerous options for changing the color and giving it a fresh look. Greys and whites are very common right now, but you shouldn’t feel limited to those choices. Be creative, but purposeful and intentional, in the color choice and stand out from the other cookie-cutter homes.
2. Protects and makes it easier to clean. A high-quality paint can protect your brick from weather conditions and fading because it adds a layer of coating that helps prevent water from getting into the brick. It’s also a smooth finish, which makes cleaning a breeze and helps to keep dirt and debris from sticking to your home.
3. It covers cosmetic issues. If you’re in an older home with some cosmetic blemishes (or exterior damages you have repaired properly and now want to cover up), painting can give it a fresh, clean slate. You don’t want to attempt to cover major problems that need to be repaired, of course, instead use it for cosmetic issues and to liven up the home overall.

Cons of painting your brick

1. There is no going back. If you decide to paint your brick, be prepared that you won’t be able to take it off. This is not a decision to take lightly, so you must be absolute in your decision before you paint. You can, however, change the color any time you want.
2. You will need to repaint. Even if you love the color, you’ll need to repaint it every few years to keep it looking amazing. The paint will flake and fade over time with typical wear, and to keep your home as beautiful as it was painted on day one, you’ll want to freshen it up as needed. Keep the same color or use it as a chance to change again if you want. A professional job with high-quality paint will ensure the longest lasting project.
3. You may need to clean your exterior more often. Depending on the color, it may be easier to see dirt and debris. However, cleaning isn’t difficult with a nice pressure washer, so if you decide to paint, add one of those on your shopping list.

With most home projects, the key is doing it right. If you decide to paint your home, hiring our team of professionals ensures you will have a great outcome on your project.

Spring has sprung, and it’s the season of rebirth and regrowth. Continue the feeling by bringing the new to the exterior of your home, too. The exterior of your home is the first impression everyone gets, and you want to spend some time working on the curb appeal. Here are some suggestions for some spring updates for your home:

Architectural Accents

Adding some architectural accents can be as budget-friendly or extensive as you want. With durable foam options, you can choose any design and style you want. Create an appealing style upgrade around your windows, add some decorative columns along a porch or patio, or bring a customized casting design to explore a variety of creative options. Accents can bring a whole new level of sophistication to a home’s exterior.

Updating Paint Colors

Painting portions, or all, of your home can dramatically change the look of your home. Painting brick has been popular for a while, and we don’t see it going out of style ever. Brick homes are beautiful, but if you hate the color, it’s not as big of a project to change as you might think. Painting old brick can freshen up a home in a big way. Stucco is very easy to repaint and looks amazing. Whatever the exterior of your home is, if you want a color switch, it’s doable. And spring is just the time to do it.

Repair and Patch Stucco

Stucco is a popular material in Utah, and it’s a great product. When taken care of, it can look beautiful for a very long time. Take some time to assess your stucco and see if there are any problems arising. Patchwork is relatively easy and doing it before anything major happens will prevent you from having to spend a lot of money later for problems that eventually lead inside, too.

Replace Wood Siding with Stucco

If your home has old wood siding, consider replacing it with stucco, which is easy to maintain. Wood siding is lovely, but it requires quite a bit of care and maintenance. If you’ve had enough of that, replacing it with stucco can update your home while also making it easier to maintain for throughout the future.

Waterproof Decks and Make Repairs

You’ll soon be gathering outside now that warmer weather is upon us. Wooden decks require some annual maintenance to keep them looking great and lasting a long time. With Utah’s weather patterns, you want to stay up on the maintenance for your wood decking. Keep up on repairs and you’ll have a useable deck for years to enjoy.

Consider Your Concrete

If you currently have concrete areas of your home, check them out and see if they need any overlays, lifting, or repairs. If you’d like to add some concrete space in your yard, now is a great time to get your project on the books. RAM Builders is happy to address concrete projects large and small. This spring don’t forget the exterior of your home when you start the spring cleaning process.

Trends may come and go, but you can still be “trendy” while also staying timeless and classic. This year, a lot of the great trends we’re seeing around the country are just that—timeless. Some trends are better left undone, and the “go big or go home” mentality is not always the best when it comes to such an expensive and large item as a home. You can still pack a beautiful and current punch with an exterior remodel while also feeling secure that you won’t want to redo everything in just a few years.

Let’s talk colors. The color of your home is a huge deal, whether it’s brick, stucco, siding, or a combination of materials. White has been huge for a while; you’ve seen it everywhere – maybe you even live in it! White is going stay, but this year it’s going a bit softer. Think warmer whites and light creams (not beige or tan though) this year instead of the stark whitest of whites. The contrast with a dark or even black is also looking like it’ll stay. It’s a classic look that is pretty on basically every style from farmhouse to contemporary and French country to colonial designs. If you love the contrast but are worried to get in too deep, go for a color blocking method, which allows you to experiment with your contrasting desires without going too much. Other color options that will likely remain popular include neutrals that are soft and blend into nature, such as subtle greens and blues. If you’re in an older home, simply painting the brick, siding, or stucco will completely transform your home. Bring your ideas to us—we have lots of experience and can provide great advice.

How about textures? Adding some texture to your exterior is a great way to bring a classy and expensive look to your home. Wood trims, stone sections, or brick accents are great options. This year we’re seeing a love for copper which is beautiful on the eyes but not so much on the pocketbook. There are many options even if you’re on a tight budget. Faux accents are readily available and when applied correctly, they can look just a gorgeous as the real thing. If you want to mix textures, this is a great year to do it. You’ll want a builder you can bounce ideas off of to make sure you don’t get too much going and to help you find materials that go well together. Adding cosmetic textures is a relatively inexpensive way to update your home.

The modern minimalist. Minimalist design has been a popular interior design trend for a while. We’re seeing a desire for a similar look on homes’ exteriors. We know this design can get very bold very quick, but don’t be afraid to add in elements somewhere on your home’s exterior. Think monochrome lighting, more windows, simple and clear geometric lines, and simple yet elegant features.

Redesigning or remodeling the exterior of your home is a big project that can change the whole look of your home. Our professionals can deliver whatever new look you want for 2022.