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Unfortunately, weather events are highly damaging all over the country. Different areas have to deal with climate-specific disasters every year, from hurricanes and snowstorms to mudslides and tornadoes. These storms are becoming more frequent, so it’s vital that you have a plan and know what to do if your home has been damaged during a storm.

Here are the steps you need to take after a destructive storm hits your home or property.

1) Stay Safe, Stay Calm

It’s easier said than done, but damaged homes are unstable and unsafe, so it’s best not to go running through the property and panic. If you’re still in the house, find a safe pathway and stay out. Watch your step! Broken glass, nails, and displaced screws are all standard after any storm damage. Your walls or roof may also be compromised and in danger of collapsing, so watch out for any cracks or signs that these might cave in.

Be aware of gas leak signs. Gas lines are another common fixture affected by heavy weather and home damage. If you smell gas, turn off the gas line to your home or call for help quickly. Look for downed power lines and always assume they are live — stay at least 10 feet away. Don’t step in standing water, and don’t light any matches until you’re sure it’s safe, as you don’t know where there may be gas leaks.

Once the storm has entirely passed, you can begin looking for the damage. You’ll have to stay calm and organized through the following steps, but remember that it’s likely your homeowner’s insurance policy will cover a majority of the damage.

2) Start Taking Photos Immediately

When you’re sure everyone is safe, you can take photos around the property. Luckily, this is no longer a difficult task with quality smartphones. Take as many pictures from various angles as you can. This is evidence for the insurance company. You should focus on getting photos of broken walls, doors, shingles, or other structural damage. Stay safe while doing this! You should only take photos of areas you can actually access without being harmed. The insurance company will eventually send an adjuster to take photos of any damage you can’t access right away.

It’s also important to get pictures of damaged electric appliances (like AC units) and your personal property if it was destroyed or affected by the storm. Note and photograph any moisture damage after a flood or hurricane, as water can ruin carpets, seep under the walls, lead to mold, etc. If there’s fire damage, it’s vital to document everything, including down electrical wires and power lines.

3) Contact Your Insurance Agent

You should contact your insurance agent as soon as possible after the storm. You’ll have to file a claim and submit all the photographs you took as proof. Depending on what your policy covers, if your home is too damaged to live in, insurance may cover a hotel or temporary housing. Your agent will have to walk you through the following steps, so stay in contact with them until your claim is resolved.

4) Keep Everything Documented

To get the total payout you’re expecting from your insurance company, you must keep everything documented. Note down when you spoke to your agent and filed the claim, keep any receipts for hotels, or any clean-up or construction that has to happen to make your property habitable.

5) Contact a Trusted Remodeling Company

Classic Construction serves Richmond, VA, homeowners after natural disasters of all kinds and understands how stressful the situation can be for families. We make the process of remodeling your home as easy as possible, so you can get back in there and enjoy your space again. Call us at 804-794-5690 or get a free quote online — our friendly staff is waiting to hear from you!

Choosing suitable materials to build your home isn’t that complicated. Thanks to technology, there are a lot of choices out there. What’s best depends on your home’s location, budget, and specific needs. The two most popular materials for siding are vinyl and fiber cement. Each one is a good option that offers several pros and cons.

What to Know About Vinyl Siding

This material is the number one most popular siding in the U.S. It’s made from PVC, a hard plastic that can expand and contract with the materials underneath. This makes it reasonably long-lasting — a Census Bureau report states that vinyl siding lasts about 20 years.

Some reasons to choose vinyl siding:

• Long-lasting
• Many aesthetic design choices
• Excellent insulation (Insulated vinyl siding is also an option with other advantages)
• Less maintenance (you won’t have to repaint the exterior)
• Weather and storm-proof
• Costs less

There aren’t too many cons of vinyl siding for a new home, but there are some facts to consider. Vinyl siding is not as fire-resistant as its counterpart. Plastic melts, so this may not be the best material for homes in hot climates as your siding may warp in the sun. This material comes in various designs and colors, so you can quickly find something that suits your taste but you won’t be able to repaint or change the color of vinyl siding later. Also, because it is plastic, vinyl has a more manufactured look than Hardie Plank siding, and this aesthetic difference is a big deciding factor.

Everything About Hardie Plank Siding

Hardie Plank siding is manufactured by the James Hardie company, known for quality materials and an eco-friendly outlook. Hardie fiber cement siding is made from a mixture of Portland wood and cement, made to look like natural wood boards, and is directly nailed to your house. It’s pricier, but it lasts at least 20 years, and is easy to clean.

Pros Hardie Plank siding include:

• Can be painted or stained
• Comes in a variety of patterns and designs
• Great for maintaining the appearance of historic homes
• Made from sustainable materials
• Known for keeping pests out

Neither vinyl nor fiber cement is particularly effective at conserving energy. Both require that the home has some layer of insulation installed. Many prefer fiber cement siding for its natural look, even though it does require some maintenance over the years. Fiber cement is also more customizable and has many options for those looking to spruce up the look of their home.

If you’re unsure which type is best for you, contact Classic Construction at 804-794-5690 or get a free quote online. Our friendly experts are happy to talk you through the process and suggest the best materials based on your budget, needs, and lifestyle.

When hiring a company to work at your home, it’s important to ask some vital questions. There are no wrong questions to ask and most homeowners even have a long list. We’ve compiled a top 5 of these questions to help get you started.

1) Is the work and materials used under a warranty? This question is extremely important and the answer is twofold. Any quality remodeling company worth hiring will stand behind its work. When doing so they are saying, “Yes, we provide a trusted service and we perform the work and provide the products we would want in our own homes.” Products such as appliances and building materials like siding come with specific manufacturer warranties. Professional contractors will warranty the work and their quality workmanship.

2) What is the timeline for this project? The answer to this question depends on the project but it’s a good question to ask so you can plan accordingly with your schedule. An entire kitchen or bathroom remodel takes longer than an exterior deck, for example. An experienced contractor has likely completed many projects similar to yours in their company’s history. They will have an accurate timeline based on the materials available and any inspections required, which all affect the completion date. They will put all the variables together and discuss a realistic timeline for completion.

3) Do you have references such as customer testimonials? Knowing that others have hired the company and have been satisfied with the work is a huge plus. A company’s reviews are perhaps one of its biggest assets. In any business, a quality company strives to keep its customers happy and knows the importance of this. You can ask the home remodeler for references or ask if they have a website with reviews.

4) What is the company’s history? When it comes to hiring anyone, job experience is a must. That isn’t to say a new company isn’t providing a good service, yet an experienced contractor will know the ins and outs of the trade. When it comes to a remodel project there’s a lot involved. From inspections required by state and county offices to ordering specific materials for the job, experience and a company with a proven track record go a long way to keep things moving along smoothly.

Ask about the company’s history and the work background of the individuals who will be performing the work. Classic Construction has been providing top-notch remodel work since 2001 and has become a leading contractor in Richmond, Virginia. Our company president ensures excellence by working closely with all aspects of the projects.

5) How will this remodelling work affect our routine and household? Depending on the area in which you’re having the work done, whether it’s a bathroom, kitchen, or an exterior project, will play into how it affects your living space. If you’re having a bathroom remodeled but have another bathroom to use, then it’s likely your routine won’t be disrupted much, if at all. On the other hand, if your kitchen is being remodeled there obviously will be some daily interruptions while the project is being completed. Your home remodeling company will address all your concerns and give you a realistic scenario.

Classic Construction is your local, trusted home remodeling company, proudly serving the Richmond, Virginia area with experienced quality work. Our customer testimonials speak for themselves and many of the products we use come with lifetime warranties. Give us a call today at (804) 794-5690 or visit us online for more information and let us get your next remodeling project started.

Your home’s siding is a vital part of the structure and is the first defense against the elements. Siding occasionally has to be refinished, retouched, or replaced. Most materials used as siding in homes deteriorate naturally and in different ways, depending on the climate and natural resources where you live.

Here’s how often you should replace or repair your siding, depending on what you have installed.

Wood Siding Panels Require Frequent Maintenance

Compared to the materials created today, wood is a lot more high-maintenance. However, most homes all over the world are made with wood materials as it’s one of the oldest building materials, and it is often cheaper and more accessible. Wood siding can last between 20 to 30 years if it is maintained properly. You should have a record of the last time the wood was replaced. It may have been mentioned by the previous homeowners and considered in the cost. Otherwise, you should do a yearly inspection, ensuring the wood isn’t affected by pests and weather damage. Cracks, breaks, and chips all compromise the efficiency of wood siding. Wood siding also requires refinishing paint every five years or so. If your wood siding loses its looks, it may be time to replace it.

Aluminum Siding May Need Replacing

Also a popular building material for its accessible price, aluminum lasts about 15 years until it needs to be replaced. According to most contractors, aluminum is both convenient and not. It is a good quality material that will protect your home from the elements, but it has a quick shelf life because it is soft enough to be punctured by rocks, twigs, and other debris. It is popular because it requires less maintenance than wood siding — you almost never have to repaint it, saving you money in the long run. Aluminum has lost popularity since advancements like vinyl siding became available to the public.

Vinyl Siding

Vinyl siding is the most popular material. It costs more than aluminum and wood options, but it requires almost no maintenance and can last several decades longer than any other building material on this list, between 60 to 100 years. It doesn’t rot like wood, and pests can’t destroy it, which is already a huge benefit for homeowners. Vinyl siding doesn’t need to be repainted and it is easy to clean with just a hose.

Fiber Cement

Another popular material, fiber cement, can easily last 100 years with minimal repainting and maintenance. It’s pricier but factors into the value of your home because of its quality and features. This material will not be easily damaged no matter what kind of weather conditions you live in. Pests have no desire to make homes in fiber cement siding, so you won’t have to worry about termites or mice, which are a costly problem for homeowners. Most importantly, it will maintain curb appeal and the color won’t fade over time.

How Do You Know if Siding Should Be Replaced?

A good way is to look at when the last time the siding was replaced and inspect your current siding for damage. You may not know what to look for, but you can have a contractor come out for an inspection. They’ll immediately let you know if it is a repair or replacement job.

Call Classic Construction at 804-794-5690 or contact us online for a consultation. We’ve served the Richmond community for over 20 years and have all the latest materials and styles available for your renovation. Our professional contractors provide the highest quality of care for every project.

There are many reasons to remodel your outside living area. It shouldn’t just be one-dimensional—it should be functional, livable, and enjoyable. Fulfilling multiple purposes should be on the forefront of your mind when considering an exterior remodel. A remodeled outdoor living area helps you get the most out of your yard and home. It can be just what you need to bring a relaxing, outdoor element to family time or a focal point for entertaining friends.

This list of our top reasons to remodel your outdoor living space will inspire you and help to bring your ideas to life.

1) Increase Home Value

Exterior upgrades are an exceptional way to increase your home value. In fact, upgrades to outdoor living spaces are certain to be an eye-catching feature when a home is shown since it is likely the first thing seen by potential buyers. Curb appeal is immensely important to homebuyers! It’s a win-win, you get to enjoy the newly decorated and remodeled space, and it’s a great investment. A custom-built deck or sunroom is a great start to create a functional, enjoyable space.

2) Optional Cooking/Dining Space

Sometimes cooking indoors is not always as fun as cooking outside, especially if you have a nicely arranged exterior space that’s inviting and multipurpose. Expanding your seating area, adding onto an existing deck, or adding a covered gazebo are all exciting options to create the space you always dreamed of for those beautiful evenings when the weather is just right. The convenience of being able to mingle with guests while preparing food is unmeasurable.

3) Move Your Office or Study Space Outdoors

With a huge increase in people working from home, this is a great opportunity to transform that exterior space. Whether you’re looking for a space to add creative inspiration, a scenic spot to work, or a leisurely area to read and study, an outdoor area is surprisingly functional for all of these activities and more. Consider a covered patio to work outdoors with shade and protection from the elements.

4) More Room For Entertaining

There is no better spot for entertaining guests than a remodeled outdoor space. Gathering outdoors allows for a relaxing environment to enjoy each other’s company, especially if you have other outdoor activities available to entertain family and friends. Perhaps you already have a deck, pool, or a covered porch, but it is just not quite enough of what you need for all your entertaining. Consider an additional space providing an outdoor bar or built-in firepit. This may be just what you’re looking for to bring it all together.

Classic Construction has renovated hundreds of Richmond, Virginia area homes. Everything from sunroom additions to exterior siding installation to bathroom extensions. We look forward to providing professional remodeling services and quality products for every aspect of your home’s needs. Contact us today at (804) 794-5690 to get a quote.

Getting ready for the change of seasons is exciting, but there are always tasks to get done before enjoying the great outdoors. Many await the first signs of spring and warmer weather, but you may also notice areas of your home that need some TLC after a long winter. Spring cleaning allows us to tackle our to-do lists and prepare for some much needed maintenance both indoors and outdoors. 

1) Check the Exterior for Any Needed Repairs

This is an ideal time to check the outside of your home for any wear and tear that may have occurred over the winter. After the cold weather passes, especially if it was a harsh winter, it can leave roofs and siding in rough shape. Depending on the age of your home and any damage that may have occurred, it can even result in bigger problems if not addressed and repaired properly.

2) Power Wash the Exterior

Whether your home is brick or has vinyl siding, it can take a hit from fall and winter weather. Rain, sleet, and snow during the winter can take longer to dry and often result in dirt and debris that can accumulate near houses, on decks and porches, and surrounding structures. Power washing your home can eliminate any buildup, restore curb appeal, and lessen the likelihood of damage.

3) Plan an Outdoor Space

With the excitement of spring approaching, it’s always a great idea to plan some outdoor events. What better place to do so than right in your backyard? A gazebo or deck with seating will be the perfect place to entertain and enjoy springtime. A sunroom or screened porch is ideal if you want to enjoy the outdoors no matter the weather, or want to bring some of the outdoors into your living space.

4) Landscape a Garden Patio

Nothing adds to the comfort and inviting feeling of spring like a nice landscaped patio space. Small trees and flowering shrubs are beautiful and can be planted anywhere around your yard. The possibilities are practically endless and you can even get some nice seating custom-built to make the space perfect for entertaining. Our Gallery features projects we have completed that can provide inspiration for your own deck or patio remodel.

5) Clear Out the Gutters and Downspouts

Fall and winter weather can result in a lot of debris gathering in your gutters and downspouts. Gutters and downspouts that are not functioning properly or clogged will result in water runoff that could negatively impact your home, possibly even resulting in roof leaks or foundation issues. Routinely keeping these areas clear will allow them to work as intended and prevent potential problems.

6) Check Plumbing Fixtures

The colder months tend to be harsh on plumbing. This might not be as much of an issue if you’re fortunate enough to have a basement or a conditioned crawl space. It is still a good idea to check the pipes and fixtures for any leaks or other problems in order to prevent more serious plumbing issues or water damage.

Classic Construction in Richmond, Virginia can help you make sure your home is spring ready. Whether you need preventive maintenance, repairs or want to add on to your home with the addition of a deck, we can inspire and build what you’re looking for. Give us a call today at (804) 794-5690 or request a free quote online.

If you’re looking for high-quality construction materials, you’ll notice “Hardie Plank” comes up at least a few times. Hardie Plank is a brand-name siding material from the James Hardie Corporation, and it’s known for its durability. It’s a double-siding product made from cement, sand, and cellulose fibers. The biggest asset of Hardie Plank siding is that it is fire-proof. On top of that, it comes with a long-lasting warranty. 

As a construction company, we know the ins and outs of various building materials and feel that the choice depends on your home’s structure, location, and the owner’s needs, wants, and budget. So if you’re trying to decide what material is best for your home, it’s a good idea to consult a professional! Until then, here is what you should know about Hardie Plank siding.

The Pros of Hardie Plank Siding

Overall, this popular material is worth the cost for those with the time and budget to spare for its installation. There are a number of reasons that Hardie Plank siding is highly sought-after. 

• Pest resistant – It’s made from materials that termites can’t chew through. Mice, woodpeckers, and other pests won’t be able to damage it. 
• 30-Year warranty – If anything does happen to your home, you’ll have a 30-year warranty with the company, which is a fantastic value. 
• Highly customizable – Hardie Plank siding comes in several different textures, so whether you want realistic-looking wood or something more smooth and modern, you can find plenty of options here. 
• Adds to resale value – As a high-quality, long-lasting material, your house will be valued at a higher price than if you used vinyl siding, as it deteriorates much faster. 
• Fire-proof – One of the most significant advantages of using Hardie Plank is that it is non-combustible, which is one of the reasons it is highly sought after. Insurance companies are often willing to provide a discount on home insurance if Hardie Plank is used due to it being non-combustible. While heat will transfer through, this type of siding will not ignite if exposed to a direct flame or contribute fuel to a fire.

Hardie Plank Siding Cons

There are a few significant drawbacks when it comes to Hardie Plank siding. Here’s what you should keep in mind before you make any big decisions, and again, every home and location is different, so it’s a good idea to ask our professionals. 

• Pricing – Its brand name and reputation make Hardie Plank already more expensive than its competition, but again, you’re getting quality for the price. The price also goes up for this product because there’s only one company producing it, and increased demand and lower supplies always equal an increased price. Finally, this product is heavier than many other construction planks, which adds to its durability, making it much pricier to ship. Shipping costs for this product add to the expense. So initially, Hardie Plank siding is an investment but one that adds protection and value to your home.

• Installation – Not all construction and contracting companies have experts in installing Hardie Plank siding. Due to its heavier weight and durability, it’s harder to install than vinyl, and the process is more time-consuming and difficult. That doesn’t mean it can’t be done, though. You have to find a construction company with the expertise necessary to deal with this material. 

Classic Construction, the leading remodeling contractor in Richmond, has a highly trained and experienced team of professionals that specialize in the installation and maintenance of Hardie Plank siding.

If you’re looking for a high-quality way to spruce up your home, call Classic Construction at 804-794-5690 or get a quote online. Our experienced professionals are ready to help you make the best possible decisions about your home’s remodel. We’ve been working with the community for over 20 years and are proud to continue providing quality construction and remodeling throughout Richmond, VA, and surrounding areas. 

Fiber cement siding is a popular construction material due to its low cost and long-lasting quality. It’s made from a combination of ingredients, including wood pulp, fly ash, and portland cement. Over the last few decades, demand for this construction material has skyrocketed, enabling homeowners to rest easy knowing their home’s central structure is weather and termite-proof. 

Fiber cement requires professional installation but will last for decades. There are alternative building materials, like wood, vinyl, brick, or stucco, and though these are also quality materials, they don’t last as long. Here’s what you need to know if you’re considering installing fiber cement siding in your home.

Advantages of Fiber Cement Siding

Fiber cement was created from a mix of ingredients specifically created to last. The wood and cement mix holds paint extremely well, so you don’t have to repaint for 10-20 years. The wood fibers prevent cracking and chipping, so your property will continue to look new. 

Fiber cement became popular when builders began to replace old construction materials containing asbestos. It’s fire-resistant and generally weather-resistant, so you don’t have to worry about your building materials rotting or molding because of rain and snow. 

Though made with some wood for the quality, the cement filler prevents pests! Termites cause billions of dollars in damage annually for homeowners in the United States. Rats and mice also find homes in other building materials and can structurally damage your home by chewing holes and electric wiring. Fiber cement means you don’t have to worry about these nuisances. 

It’s also very low maintenance. Fiber cement siding is very easy to clean. With just a hose, you can get off any dust, dirt, or leaves. 

Finally, because of its durability and efficiency, fiber cement siding increases the value of your home. Any building or remodeling you do should increase your property value, and replacing your current siding with fiber cement is a great investment.

Fiber Cement Styles

When it was first introduced, this material wasn’t very common, and only a few designs were available. But now, you can pretty much get any design done in fiber cement. Whether you want a wood look with boards or you’re going for more of a mid-century tile wall style, fiber cement can be customized to match your dream aesthetic. 

Fiber cement boards can be painted or textured, so you can either go for a smooth stucco look or textured to look like wood. You can choose from dozens of different styles, including lap, plank, vertical, shake, curved-shake, and geometric patterns.

If you’re looking to remodel your home’s exterior, call Classic Construction at 804-794-5690. Our experts will be happy to assist you in picking out the perfect materials for your budget and aesthetic. We’ve served the Richmond, VA, community for 20 years, providing quality remodels for all types of homes.