Top 3 Signs You’re Ready For A New Deck

Construction Defects, Design, General, , , ,

It’s spring and it’s time to get out on your deck! It might also be the time when you realize you need a new deck. Safety, functionality and future plans are three main elements in considering a new deck.

Top 3 Signs You Need a New Deck

1. Safety

Safety checks will include looking for rotted boards, weak posts, loose railings & bad ledgers

“Safety is not something to mess around with” according to Paul Schmidt, co owner of AMEK Exteriors.

Inspect deck boards for weak spots.

Having a friend or family member get hurt by falling through a deteriorating deck board or by leaning on a bad railing piece is not worth the trade-off of being proactive. “Being in the remediation business has made us aware of a lot of decks that weren’t built to meet building codes. If you are concerned about your deck, contact us so we can come inspect it for an honest evaluation.” Paul said.

What do you need to look for?
  • Look for boards that are splitting, turning soft & spongy, or shredding
  • Inspect post connections for weakening especially at ground & decking levels
  • Survey all connections on railings for loose or corroded bolts or screws
  • Check the ledger board attached to your house for proper flashing & water drainage
  • Review your city’s building codes – especially if you are planning to sell soon
2. Functionality
AMEK deck, AZEK, Ironwood
This AMEK deck was enlarged for better traffic flow & for easier maintenance by using AZEK & cedar for building materials.

When thinking over the functionality of your deck, consider how the layout of the deck functions while you are using it. A deck that doesn’t function well for your family is a deck that you won’t use. Some quick and simple ways to examine needs are:

  • Evaluate uses – Is there room for someone to be grilling without worrying about scorching someone sitting nearby?
  • Access traffic patterns – If everyone is sitting around the table, is it possible for someone to freely move to a nearby door or stairs?
  • Analyze required maintenance – Does your deck need more maintenance each year?

Perhaps, it’s time to consider other new materials like AZEK to maximize relaxation time and to reduce maintenance demands.

“Our AMEK design team will listen to your needs and evaluate your outdoor space to see how a new layout using low-maintenance options could make your deck even more enjoyable,” Paul notes.

3. Future Plans

What else are you dreaming of? An addition? Moving? It’s important to consider other changes that might impact the deck area like landscaping or an addition to your home.

AMEK deck, Edina, wood
This Edina deck was designed with a separate grilling corner and built-in seating & planters.
  • Hire a remodeler like AMEK if you are thinking about using the same space for a three- or four-season porch or addition or transforming the area below for a patio or outdoor kitchen. Requirements for footings and water run-off would be crucial to the design process.
  • Study cost vs. benefit of repairing existing deck to doing a new deck if you are planning to move within a couple years.

“We know Minnesotans love having outdoor spaces,” said Paul. “It’s all about creating a project that is not only safe, but also that is aesthetically appealing which is something AMEK excels at.”

For a complimentary deck inspection, contact us now to take full advantage of the summer and fall seasons in Minnesota.

What does condensation or fogging mean on my windows?

Building Health, Construction Defects, Windows, , , , ,

Condensation or fogging on your home’s windows can be worrisome. Winter is a common trigger, but this window condensation issue can happen year-round. Understanding the mechanics of your home and windows can help eliminate or reduce the possible damage caused by chronic condensation.

Window Condensation Causes

There are a variety of factors that can cause condensation and foggy windows.

Ventilation & Airflow 

“Homeowners often don’t realize how important ventilation and airflow are in a home.”  ~ Paul Schmidt

“Homeowners often don’t realize how important ventilation and airflow are in a home,” said AMEK Exteriors co-owner Paul Schmidt. Ventilation throughout the home including the attic and basement are critical to the home’s “well being”. In addition, double-pane and triple-pane windows can minimize condensation issues, but they can still happen because it’s usually not the window itself causing the problem.

Window Condensation AMEK Exteriors Fogging
Example of window condensation. Photo by AMEK Exteriors.

It mostly comes down to moisture levels and air movement. Keeping the balance between air temperature and humidity levels can be challenging. You might see signs that adjustments (throughout the year) need to be made if you are starting to see condensation form on the windows.

Air Temperature Differences

Colder air generally can’t hold as much moisture. Extreme temperature differences can set up a greenhouse effect – below zero temperatures outside with temperatures 70 degrees or warmer on the inside. The air next to the window glass cools down causing it to form water droplets. This is known as the dew point.

Seasonal Changes

Close-up image of window condensation.
Close-up of window condensation forming caused by improper moisture balance. Photo by AMEK Exteriors

Sometimes, condensation is short-term like when the seasons change and you close up the house and turn on the furnace or air conditioner. A new home or one that has had extensive remodeling can have extra moisture as the building materials like concrete, carpet, sheetrock and wood dry out.

Window Rot – Hidden Damage

Condensation that happens regularly and for a lengthy period of time can deteriorate window frames and can cause major rotting around windows and doors which can lead to widespread development of mold and related health impacts plus compromised structural integrity from rotted wood.

“We’ve seen an increase in moisture issues caused by improper installation of windows and improper design of ventilation systems.”  ~ Paul Schmidt

“We’ve seen an increase in moisture issues caused by improper installation of windows and improper design of ventilation systems,” said Paul who specializes in fixing construction defects. “Condensation on your windows might just be your first visible warning sign something isn’t right.”

Window condensation that has started to impact wood window frame. Photo by AMEK Exteriors
Window condensation that has started to impact wood window frame. Photo by AMEK Exteriors

Common remediation repairs can involve removing windows and examining them to see if they can be reused or if new windows are required. In addition, the surrounding wall framing may need to be replaced if it’s rotted. The critical component is using the correct installation techniques when putting the window and wall back together to prevent future issues.

Window Condensation Issues in New Homes

Occasionally, you may experience condensation on windows in your new home. Not to worry. This can be a common problem and caused by:

  • Airtight energy efficiency
  • No or uncalibrated ventilation system
  • Change of seasons
  • New products drying out

Because newer homes are becoming more airtight and energy efficient, there is less airflow through gaps like there used to be. To give your home “an adjustment”, opening a door or window for 15 to 20 minutes occasionally can help equalize the moisture levels and provide some needed fresh air providing the relative humidity outside is less than the relative humidity inside.

“On new homes, it’s really important to integrate a ventilation system into the home’s building envelope.”  ~ Paul Schmidt

“On new homes, it’s really important to integrate a ventilation system into the home’s building envelope, so we install a heat recovery ventilator or a energy recovery ventilator to make sure there is a regular exchange of fresh air and prevent excessive moisture issues like window condensation,” Paul says.

When It’s Time To Replace Your Windows

Another problem can occur when window seals have failed and the condensation is happening between the window panes. This fogging can happen if the windows are old and need to be replaced or if the windows were improperly made or installed. This problem isn’t as detrimental as condensation issues. Windows with this issue may not be as effective and look unsightly. Check to see if the window’s warranty has expired to see if you can get it fixed or replaced. If under warranty, the manufacturer will provide the glass for free, but you have to pay a professional to install it or do it on your own.

Reducing Window Condensation At Home

So what are some situations and how can they be altered to be balanced out to reduce window condensation?

  • Over-active humidifier

    Perhaps, the humidifier is set too high for the capacity of what the air can hold based on the temperature, so try reducing the humidifier setting and see if that helps.

  • Closed blinds or curtains

    Closing curtains or blinds can also disrupt the airflow to the windows causing condensation – leaving a larger gap at the bottom or side of the curtain or blind is all it takes to clear up the problem.

  • Extra guests taking showers

    Having extra people in the house taking showers or doing laundry can be enough to change the humidity level in the house especially in the winter when windows would be closed not allowing some moisture to escape. Turn on the bathroom fan or leave a window open afterward for a couple minutes.

  • Additional cooking

    Same goes with doing additional cooking without the exhaust fan going.

If trying these tactics to clear condensation doesn’t work, It may be time to call the professionals. Contact AMEK Exteriors for further help in identifying causes and solutions to your window condensation challenges.

AMEK Employees Earn Vinyl Siding Installer Certificates

Construction Defects, General, Siding, , , ,

Two AMEK Exteriors’ employees recently received their certified vinyl siding installer certificates from the Vinyl Siding Institute (VSI). Jim Hansel and Brent Ficocello attended the course on proper installation techniques for vinyl siding, soffits, and framing and passed the examination in January 2017. Based in Washington DC, VSI is a national organization representing manufacturers of vinyl and other polymeric siding and suppliers in the industry.

AMEK Vinyl Siding Installers in Bloomington
AMEK CEO Andrew Schmidt congratulates Brent Ficocello and Jim Hansel on earning the Vinyl Siding Institute’s Certified Vinyl Siding Installers certficates.

“This certification adds to their credentials making them more valuable to our company and ultimately to our homeowners we serve,” said Andrew Schmidt, co-owner and CEO of AMEK Inc.

Decades of Experience

Brent and Jim both bring decades of experience in the construction industry to AMEK. In his 25 years in the construction business, Jim has worked in all phases of construction and thoroughly understands how important scheduling, proper installation, and communication are to his clients. Jim is also a Certified Remodeling Project Manager (CRPM) with the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) and is Lead Certified with the EPA. Brent has been around construction since he was a kid with official jobs starting in 2001. Brent has a solid background in exterior storm restoration as well as new home construction from start to finish. He is extremely knowledgeable about exterior product choices and design options. One of Brent’s strengths is his high client satisfaction ratings.

“A lot of people underestimate how critical it is for siding to be installed and integrated properly with other products like stone, windows and decking,” according to Paul Schmidt, AMEK Co-owner.

“A lot of people underestimate how critical it is for siding to be installed and integrated properly with other products like stone, windows and decking,” according to Paul Schmidt, co-owner and VP of AMEK Exteriors. “That’s why our company regularly provides training and continuing education courses for our employees.”

Preventing Construction Defects

One of the key areas Paul specializes in is fixing construction defects caused by water intrusion due to improper installation techniques used by other construction companies. Water and moisture that enters the wall cavities can cause extensive structural rotting and mold formation.

“AMEK’s goal is protect your investment in your home and your family’s health with very specific installation techniques,” Paul said.

Destructive Testing & Construction Remediation Remediation Case Study: St. Paul Multi-Family Condos

Building Health, Case Studies, Construction Defects, Destructive Testing, Homeowner Associations & Management

Overview: Initially, performed destructive testing in St. Paul to assist engineers. Did an estimate for the scope of repairs for the litigation case. Hired to do remediation work.

Original Built Date: 2006

General Description: Five-story mixed-use retail and condominium space in St. Paul along a light-rail corridor.Multi-Family Construction Defect

Initial Analysis: Water damage around windows, doorways, and decks on all sides of the building. Trapped moisture also found in areas designed for ventilation. Litigation based on construction defects caused by improper architectural design and installation.

Scope: Determine extent of damage and propose remediation process and cost.

Remediation Scope: Removed brick work and siding around window and door openings and inspected for rot damage, which was extensive in some areas. Reinstalled current windows or installed new windows/doors. Reflashed correctly, reinsulated wall cavities, and redid brickwork and siding on more than 80 openings. Sealed and insulated areas to separate cold and warm areas to prevent more ventilation problems. Removed decking and roofing material for patio areas to assess and repair as needed.

Challenges & Solutions: Intense proactive communication between association board, management company, tenants and residents due to the required access to interior spaces. Managed a sliding schedule required our team to shift as needed to keep the project moving forward. In-depth repairs required our team to be highly versatile and experienced. Determining priorities and developing cost-effective, long-term solutions for remediation work were based on a holistic approach. Analysis of decking material replacement options generated the benefit of cooler materials making the decks more usable on hot days.

Additional Project Notes: Flexible with financial aspects to allow association to undertake such a giant project outside the insurance coverage. Outlined to homeowner association future maintenance and relating schedule needed to maintain a healthy building

Completion Date: 2016

 

Door and frames were damaged by moisture causing peeling painting and wood rot. Replaced with metal doors and frames which were properly integrated into the water management system to prevent future problems.

 

Improperly integrated vapor barriers caused rot below the windows and doors. Decking areas were all damaged from moisture. Action plan: Remove the deck, flat roof and all components down to the floor trusses. Remediation plan: Add spray foam to ceiling below to stop the vapor transmission coming from the warm side of the home. We then added blown insulation to fill the remaining space in the truss cavity. Next, installed new gray-colored TPO roofing system to replace the black EPDM. The gray reduced the sun absorption to allow more enjoyable use of the rooftop patios. Another failure was the original deck patios were attached in approximately 46 places penetrating the roofing membrane for each patio deck causing framing members under the roofing to deteriorate. Created a new solution only involving 6 points of penetration which were each completely sealed to avoid water intrusion.

 

When the building was constructed, the windows were not installed correctly for a water management system. This failure allowed water to get behind the weather resistive barrier (WRB) causing rot. Remediation plan: Remove bricks around the perimeter of windows, remove windows from their opening, reinstall window property tying it into the water management system and into the WRB of the brick, and then installed new brick around the windows.

Deck Installation Tips from Your Minneapolis Exterior Design Company

Construction Defects, Design, Residential

Construction techniques and materials when building and installing a new deck are important considerations according to AMEK Exteriors’ Co-owner Paul Schmidt. Schmidt was recently featured in the From the Expert section of the April/May 2016 edition of Midwest Home magazine.

Paul SchmidtQ. What should I consider when building a new deck?

A: Having a deck is prime real estate when the weather warms up. If your old deck is deteriorating – or if are you thinking of adding a deck to a new home or remodeling project – make sure your deck is designed correctly and built with quality materials to withstand our sometimes harsh Midwest weather elements.

Fortunately, there are some products on the market now that can endure this climate – plus look great – for years to come. While clients request a range of materials, AMEK regularly uses AZEK, a PVC material that resists stains, scratches, and mold, and is available in a wide array of colors. It looks great and requires minimal maintenance.

If you want a beautiful, durable, well-built new deck in Minneapolis, do your research and hire a company that understands how your deck needs to integrate with the house. Every year, we are hired to fix defective decks, windows and doors because of poor installations and safety concerns. Get started with your new deck installation by contacting us today!