Whether you just purchased a new home or are a very lucky homeowner who’s never experienced major home issues, you might be confused about home warranties and home insurance protection. There are many terms under this umbrella: homeowner’s insurance, home warranty, and home improvement warranty.

So, what is a home warranty versus a home improvement warranty? What do home warranties cover? Does your homeowner’s insurance do it all? Is it important to choose a home remodeler that offers a warranty for your projects?

Home Warranties vs. Homeowner’s Insurance

What exactly is the difference between all these different types of coverage? Do you need them all? If you have issues with your home’s exterior finish, will any of them help?

First of all, if you have a mortgage, you need to hold homeowner’s insurance. The lender for your mortgage will require you to show proof of insurance and keep it in good standing until your home loan is completely paid off (and even then, you should have coverage to protect your investment).

What does homeowner’s insurance cover? Think catastrophic issues. Homeowner’s insurance covers major losses of personal property due to disasters, theft, and other emergencies. It’s imperative to do your research and familiarize yourself with your homeowner’s insurance policy. Every policy is different.

For example, here in Wisconsin, we get a lot of precipitation; whether or not you live near a floodplain, you may still experience flooding. Issues like broken pipes, sudden temperature fluctuations, or a downpour can lead to unexpected water in your home. But most Wisconsin homeowner’s insurance doesn’t include flood coverage unless you have a special policy.

You must talk to your insurance agent about your coverage to ensure you have the protection you need. Insurance companies should explain all the limits of your coverage and what to do should an unexpected issue arise.

Similarly, a home warranty is a separate piece of coverage you can purchase from home warranty service provider companies that may include a service contract or a service fee. What does a home warranty cover? These types of protection often cover certain large appliances and major home systems inside your house. Typical items include HVAC systems (furnaces and air conditioners), swimming pools, septic systems, major appliances like washers, dryers, large kitchen appliances, and water heaters. A home warranty company may also cover your home’s electrical system.

The items covered under a home warranty can vary, but a warranty usually extends the manufacturer’s warranty and covers wear, tear, and aging for an annual fee. It’s important to note that most home warranties don’t cover structural issues with areas like the walls, flooring, or foundation. They may not cover issues like asbestos or mold. They may also become void with improper care or maintenance.

Home warranties are a good idea when you purchase or install a large appliance or system in your home. It can go beyond a manufacturer’s warranty to offer extra protection and peace of mind about the cost of repairs. Be sure to read the contract terms to know what to expect and everything the warranty covers.

What Are Home Improvement Warranties?

As you’re reading the differences between home warranty plans and homeowner’s insurance, you’re likely noticing that neither type of warranty covers home improvement purchases and exterior updates like windows, doors, roofing, or siding–projects usually tackled by a home improvement contractor, like Weather Tight.

So, what type of plan do you have for these major purchases? Most of these types of exterior updates are individually covered by a warranty when a professional installation company handles them. Items like doors or windows may not be covered if the home improvement project is installed by a handyperson, general contractors, or the homeowners themselves.

While it may seem that installing windows or siding yourself is the best way to save money, it’s easy to quickly get in way over your head. Once many of the products are purchased, they may not be covered, and you may not be able to return them, even with latent defects or faulty workmanship. This can leave you stuck with a big, messy, and expensive problem (like a pile of windows that are the wrong size or dented siding that leaks). For a big home renovation project, you’ll save more and protect yourself in the long term by choosing a professional company that offers a warranty.

For Weather Tight customers here in Southeastern Wisconsin, most of our windows are backed by a lifetime transferable warranty (even if you sell your house). Our professional installers know exactly what they’re doing, and we’ve made sure we have top-quality products custom-manufactured for your home. You’ll get a perfect fit and protection for your investment.

We offer asphalt roofing manufactured by Owens Corning. With the Owens Corning Platinum Protection Limited Warranty, you have a lifetime of coverage against product defects, as well as some of the best materials and additional coverage in the business, including workmanship coverage (a rarity in the industry).

Similarly, our vinyl siding includes a lifetime warranty on most products, depending on the finish and add-ons like stonework. With home improvement warranties, it’s about more than covering just the product. It’s also about the installation process. Cutting corners in installation can often lead to void manufacturers’ warranties (and significant problems down the line). You need to trust both the product and the installers.

At Weather Tight, we work with all our product manufacturers to ensure we get the highest quality with some of the best warranties available. Why? Well, because we know there are a lot of fly-by-night home improvement companies out there that won’t stand behind their products or their work. We’ve been in the business for 37 years, and we’ve seen enough to know why those other companies come and go.

It may seem counterintuitive for a home improvement company to offer robust product warranties. After all, wouldn’t it be better for business if our customers had to return every few years for additional replacements? In this industry, reputation is everything. Much of our business comes from recommendations and referrals. When a customer has a good experience, they’ll return for other projects, and better yet, and they’ll pass our name on to their family and friends—a much smarter business strategy in the long run.

What to Know About Home Improvement Warranties: The Fine Print

No matter the policy or the warranty, it will likely include some legalese and fine print. It’s very important that when you choose a company to work with, you review these details carefully. Your sales representative (from any company) should ensure you clearly understand your coverage and know what to expect before you pay.

At Weather Tight, our home representatives will be happy to review the warranties on your project and the products included in the installation. They can walk through the expectations with you to help you avoid unwanted surprises in a few years.

Should something occur, we’re happy to follow up with you, too. We promise always to do our best to deliver top quality to our customers. Our dedication to excellence has made us Wisconsin’s Most Recommended Home Remodeler—a reputation we proudly stand behind.

If you’re looking for a home improvement company you can trust for windows, doors, siding, and roofing replacement, reach out today! We’re happy to show you the Weather Tight difference.

In the spring, many Wisconsin homeowners get to work sprucing up their homes for the summer. We check the house for winter weather damage and look at any areas that need to be touched up.

But then summer heats up, and plans start to take up our weekends. We’re headed up North one weekend; the next weekend, we’re spending time at the lake. Before we know it, summer is nearing an end, and many of those exterior home maintenance projects have gone by the wayside. But early fall is a great time to prepare your home for the colder months. Follow these five fall home maintenance tips to ensure you’re in good shape for winter.

A Good Time to Prepare Your Home for Fall and Winter

Late summer and early fall are the perfect time to prepare for winter weather. Most of us know it’s time to change the furnace filter and check that our HVAC system is in good condition for cold weather. We might take the time to check smoke alarms and test carbon monoxide detectors to ensure we’re safe. Interior maintenance tasks are often our focus. But the outside of our home should be just as prepared for colder weather. The best way to prepare for cooler temperatures is to check out your exterior now.

1. Check Your Gutters and Downspout

Even if you clean gutters in the spring, it’s a good idea to give them another assessment as we come upon fall. A visual check should be sufficient if you have gutter protection in place. Look at the outside of your gutter. Check for cracks, areas where the gutter pulls away from the fascia (connecting the gutter and roof), or water running down the house. You may need to use garden hoses to test for water leaks (before you take the hoses off your outdoor faucets).

Look at your gutter protection system. Is it in place? Are there any damaged areas? Gutters should be covered and sealed tightly with no leaks or areas where water can get near your home’s foundation. If you notice any standing or slow-moving water in the gutter, you may have a clog. Water should flow away from your home and freely out of the downspout; otherwise, you might face ice dams and other issues come winter.

If you don’t have gutter protection or your gutters are damaged, it’s time to consider gutter replacement. Over time, your gutters can become loose, and the seals can give way, especially without proper gutter protection systems. Consider an update as part of your exterior home maintenance to prepare your house for the chilly winter winds coming off Lake Michigan.

Watch this video from Tod & Todd explaining why gutter protection systems are so important.

2. Assess Your Roof

Another item on your fall maintenance checklist is to look at the condition of your roof. Climbing up on a ladder can be dangerous (and you can even damage your shingles), so do a visual inspection from the ground. Look for areas where the shingles are peeling up or curling. If the edges start turning up, it’s a telltale sign your roof may be due for replacement.

Other signs you need a roof replacement include missing shingles or shingles that are loose or falling off. Discoloration and fading are unsightly and can also indicate that your roof has aged. A leaky roof is an emergency–and not one you want to face in the winter. We often think winter is the hardest time on the roof in Wisconsin, but summer also presents hazards. Hailstorms, heat, humidity, and improper ventilation of your home cause serious damage and lead to roof problems that rear their ugly head during cold winters.

Another indication that your roof has aged is to look at the runoff in your gutter. Do you see roofing materials like sand or asphalt pieces accumulating? This sediment indicates that your roof is deteriorating. If you notice these signs, call Weather Tight for an assessment. We use assessment tools to pinpoint any issues you may have with your roof and offer you a no-hassle estimate for roof replacement.

3. Look at Your Windows

One of the most essential exterior home maintenance tips to prepare for winter is to look at your windows. Windows aren’t only your home’s eyes, letting in light and fresh air to beat the summer heat—windows also serve a crucial insulating function in the winter. They keep your house warm and protected from air leaks in the late fall and winter.

Now is the best time to have a professional check your windows and make sure they’re in top form. It will help you keep your heating bills consistent. You want the warm air from your furnace to stay INSIDE your house! A warm home is important as winter sets in.

Windows in good condition should be relatively low maintenance. With regular washing, your windows should stay bright and clear all year round. If you notice cloudiness between panes, a constantly foggy appearance, or mildew and mold growing along the window casing, call our window replacement team! Other indicators that your windows are failing include cracked paint and soft or damp wood anywhere around your windows (indoors or out).

Do you get out the tape and plastic each winter to “seal up” your windows for winter? Believe it or not, this typical Wisconsin winter home maintenance step isn’t at all necessary if you have correctly installed windows. Your windows should be free of air infiltration and leaks. Many of our customers are shocked to find out how much energy they’re losing with leaky windows!

4. Inspect Your Siding and Exterior Finish

Now that you’ve looked at your gutters, roof, and windows, it’s time to take a look at your exterior finish overall. How does your home look from the curb? Is everything in tip-top shape? If you have aluminum siding, are there dents or dings? Has the siding been pitted due to weather or mistreatment? Are there areas where the siding is loose or even falling off? You’ll want everything secure before we face winter storms.

Those with stucco or wood-finish homes should take a look at the paint and finish on your house. Is the paint peeling, or are there signs of mildew, pests, or water damage? Not only do these exterior finish problems detract from the value and curb appeal of your home, but they can indicate much larger (and more expensive) issues on the horizon.

If your home could use a facelift, consider investing in beautiful, low-maintenance vinyl siding! New siding will save you the hassle of painting each year, and it can really increase the look and even the comfort of your home. We remove old siding, and underneath each siding job, we apply a special home wrap that allows your house to “breathe” properly. The new siding is weather-tight to ensure your home stays warm in the winter (and cool in the summer).

5. Don’t Ignore Your Front Door

Finally, the fifth tip for exterior home maintenance is to take a look at your front door. Does your door leak air? Do you have to keep a rug snuggled up to the door (or, worse, a beanbag snake) to block the drafts? Have you ever had snow or frost sneak into the INSIDE of your front door?

A new door keeps the cold air out and improves your home’s look, safety, and security. It may seem like a minor home update, but your front door significantly impacts your house. Unfortunately, many homeowners try to DIY their front door updates. This project can lead to leaks and even security issues if the door isn’t correctly installed.

Leave the front door update to the professionals! A new front door is an affordable way to change your home’s exterior and increase your safety and comfort. We have many great safety features, like our multi-point locking system, to keep you extra secure. If you have a drafty front door, don’t wait another year or suffer through another winter when cooler weather comes. Call us today to discuss your options.

We can do many home exterior updates all year round, so don’t worry about the coming winter months. Our team works in most weather conditions to ensure your home exterior project is completed to your satisfaction. If you notice some areas on your fall checklist that need to be addressed, reach out. We’re happy to help you make the outside of your home just as cozy as the inside. Contact us today and learn just how stress-free home exterior projects can be!

How many of us have been interested or excited about a company’s product or service only to learn from bad reviews that maybe we should go in another direction? Do negative reviews mean an instant “veto”? Are bad reviews always bad? Can a bad review be a good thing?

Rather than seeing a bad review as a stop sign, discerning consumers recognize that it’s really more of a yellow light—a sign that you should explore further and discover what happened. There’s truly a lot you can learn from bad reviews. Here’s how to be wise when exploring a company’s online reputation.

Do Bad Reviews Matter?

Go anywhere these days, and chances are someone will ask for your opinion. The dentist, the doctor’s office, the hair salon—everyone asks, “What did you think of our service?” Everyone wants a five-star review, of course.

But more important than those stars is the customer’s experience. Good businesses value customer feedback, and they ask for those reviews so they can continue to serve their customers better in the future and attract more potential customers. Even though the barrage of surveys might sometimes feel annoying, it’s a guide and a method for businesses to stay competitive and deliver. High customer satisfaction goes a long way toward improving customer experience.

Why are most reviews negative (or why does it sometimes feel that way)? Well, often, when people have a positive experience, they move on and perhaps don’t have a chance to share their positive reviews. When people are frustrated or upset, they want to make their feelings known. A good business will listen and take notes—even when it’s a bad review.

Star ratings aren’t just reserved for films and restaurants anymore. Most businesses have an online presence, and with that presence comes the chance for every customer to share their assessment and experience (the good, the bad, and, well…the ugly). It’s best practice to offer customers a chance to reach out and resolve their concerns. And it’s a good idea for businesses to take heed so they can turn those negative online reviews into positive feelings.

Are bad reviews always bad? It’s important to read the negative feedback to see what is going on. Sometimes people leave bad reviews for reasons like they couldn’t get through on a customer service line, there was an issue outside of the company’s control, or even that they didn’t understand the star rating system. Occasionally negative reviewers leave fake reviews or “spam” review sites with several repetitive reviews. So, no—not all “bad” reviews truly indicate shortcomings or a dissatisfied customer.

Interpreting Customer Reviews in the Home Improvement Industry

When it comes to the home improvement and remodeling industry, reviews are crucial—and for good reason. There’s nothing quite as intensely personal as a person’s home. When you hire a home improvement business to perform a service like installing a new roof, windows, or siding, you expect the very best.

But sometimes, in life, things go awry. Even at Weather Tight, where we strive to completely satisfy every customer in the first place, occasionally, bad reviews happen. No matter what the review is, we review each customer’s feedback carefully because we know it’s a learning experience for our team and a chance for us to make it right. In a business built on referrals and recommendations, we know that our reputation is everything.

So, do bad reviews matter? As a homeowner, you should definitely do your homework and see what you can learn from a bad review. Look at the positive and negative comments on social media, Google reviews, and industry websites like the BBB. But it’s also important to realize that one bad review or negative experience doesn’t always mean the product or service was terrible. The more important question to ask is, how did the business owner or company work to resolve the concern? Did they try to turn the situation around for the unhappy customers? Do they also have good reviews?

Mistakes happen, but it’s how we resolve those mistakes that really counts. You want a company that responds to customers and seeks a way to rectify the concern. At Weather Tight, we’re confident in our workers and our customer service. Our team always does our best job to ensure that, in the end, everyone walks away feeling pleased with the outcome.

What We Do with Bad Reviews

So, what do we do about those bad reviews? As much as we wish that they never happen, it’s inevitable that a job might get rescheduled due to a delay on a product, a customer might have a bad experience, or a product might not meet the customer’s standards and expectations once our contractors complete the installation.

Our team reads each review, good experiences or bad, to learn from it. After we meet with customers, we follow up several times during their remodeling process, no matter the project. From a single front door installation to multiple window replacements to an entirely new roof, we make sure that our customers have a chance to share their experiences. If they have questions, feedback, or concerns, we want them to feel heard and satisfied with the answers.

We always follow up with our customers after the installation of a product. We don’t ask about your experience to get accolades and rest on our laurels; we ask because we constantly strive to improve and ensure our customers are completely satisfied.

We know that satisfied customers return. Even if there was a bump or two in the road during the project, when we resolve the issue, we often earn that important repeat business and recommendation.

Even though Wisconsin is a big place, it’s also filled with tight-knit communities. When a business does well, people recommend it to their friends and neighbors. When a company does poorly, well, we all know how that turns out. Reputation is everything. Prospective customers could get turned off by a one-star review and never take that next step.

Having been in the home remodeling business for over 35 years, we’ve worked hard to maintain and build upon our reputation for excellence. We hope to always meet your expectations. If, for some reason, we fall short, we’ll try our best to make it right. That’s why Weather Tight is Wisconsin’s Most Recommended Home Remodeler.

But don’t just take our word for it! Take a moment to read our customer testimonials and case studies to learn about other Southeastern Wisconsin homeowners’ experiences. If you have any questions, a team member will gladly help. We look forward to discussing your next project, whether it’s a window replacement, a new roof, or another exterior update. We hope we earn a good review from you!

You may have heard the buzz about energy-efficient home improvements. Often, when homeowners consider home updates, it’s out of necessity—something isn’t working, or there’s an issue that they need to address, like a broken door or drafty windows.

But did you know that by making these updates, you’ll also save money both in the short and long term? Not only do many home updates increase the value of your home and curb appeal, but they also make your home energy efficient, saving you on your energy bills each month.

If you’re trying to prioritize your home improvements or considering an update, here are 5 energy-efficient home improvements that pay off for Wisconsin homeowners!

How to Energy Efficient Home Improvements Save Money

Remember when your parents told you, “Close that window! We’re not paying to heat the whole neighborhood!”? Well, in many ways, they were right.

When you have drafty windows or doors in your house, you get “air infiltration.” That means the air from outside can get into your home, and air from your home can get out. In other words, when those wintery storms move into Southeastern Wisconsin, you’re paying more money to heat your home—cold air seeps into your house, and hot air escapes.

In the summer, we have the opposite effect. We all know how quickly temperatures can change here in Wisconsin. One day, it’s freezing, and then you’re turning on your AC the next day. If your windows and doors aren’t energy efficient, you could be paying for cool air that isn’t inside your house.

Not only do energy-efficient home improvements save on home energy bills, but certain improvements may even qualify as tax credits for deductions. Uncle Sam will help you save when you’re making your home energy efficient because these environmentally friendly home updates are a benefit to all.

Finally, right now, real estate is a seller’s market. If you want to fetch a higher price for your house, a few energy-efficient home updates will increase the curb appeal and add value to your house. Potential buyers are always attracted to homes that are well taken care of. Asking, “How energy efficient is my home,” will help you prepare for a sale.

Even if you don’t plan to put your house on the market for a few years (or ever), energy-efficient home improvements are worth the investment today. You’ll save on home energy bills and utilities, increase your comfort, and maybe even get a deduction on your taxes. It’s a win-win and a sound investment into your home’s future.

So. what are a few smart energy-efficient home improvements to consider? Check out these home updates to save on your utilities.

1. Seal Up Leaks and Add Insulation

If you have leaks around your home’s floorboards, fireplace, or other areas, it’s worth the effort to add a bead of caulk around the baseboards. If the cold air seems to come from your attic, basement, or even a crawl space, you may also want to add additional insulation to those spaces.

Not only does addressing cracks and leaks keep out air and moisture, but you’ll also reduce the likelihood of unwanted visitors like mice, spiders, and other pests. These critters can get into amazingly small spaces, and even if your home is drafty, they’ll still come in when that cold weather hits.

2. Install Replacement Windows

Did you know that the contractors who build new homes often choose the cheapest window materials? We’ve seen brand new builds in Ozaukee County, Waukesha County, Racine County, and throughout Milwaukee with low-quality windows. Often, buyers need to replace these windows in less than a decade!

Of course, those older homes may also need a window replacement. A quick “damp-hand test” will tell you if you have a leak. Moisten your hand on a cool, windy day, and hold it up around the perimeter of the window—if you feel the breeze, you’re getting air infiltration! Replacement windows can help make your home energy efficient and significantly improve comfort. You’ll save money on your energy bill and notice a big difference.

3. Replace Your Exterior Entry Doors

Older doors are another area of your home that can lead to heat loss, drafts, and higher energy costs. So whether you’re tired of wrestling with a drafty sliding door by your patio or notice ice accumulating on the INSIDE of your front door, it’s time for an upgrade.

Installing new entry doors is a great way to improve your home’s energy savings and increase your safety and security. Think of a new door as a facelift for your house. It’s the first thing visitors notice, and an update to an energy-efficient door can vastly increase your home’s curb appeal.

4. Consider New Heating & Cooling Equipment

Changes to your home’s furnace and AC can significantly impact your energy bill savings. Once you’ve addressed any air leaks and drafts, a new heating and cooling system can help you get and maintain the optimal temperature year-round. Your furnace and air conditioner use more energy than any other home appliance, so they are a sensible place to invest.

Even a small update to a programmable thermostat will help you save on your energy costs. By adjusting the temperature overnight or while you’re away, you’ll be able to notice a reduction on your monthly bill—especially during the winter!

5. Upgrade Your Other Home Appliances

You’ve updated your windows and doors, taken care of air leaks, and you have an energy-efficient heating and cooling system. Is there anything else you can do to improve the energy efficiency of your home? Small changes can still add up to even more savings around your house.

For example, switch out your lightbulbs to energy-efficient bulbs and fixtures. When you need to purchase a new appliance like a fridge or washer, look for one that’s energy efficient or Energy Star certified. Even opting for a shower over a bath can help you save on hot water costs.

Energy-efficient home improvements are a wise investment that can really help you save money and add value to your home in multiple ways. If you’re considering replacing those leaky doors and windows, now is a great time! Contact Weather Tight today, and we can help you assess your home’s most significant areas of concern so you can start saving on your utility bills.

Have other projects in mind? As a two-time BBB Torch Award for Business Ethics winner, we recommend checking out the Better Business Bureau® to find reputable companies for many other projects and services.