4 Benefits of Replacing Your Old Windows

There comes a time in the lifecycle of any house when you have to consider replacing the windows. You may be hesitant at first, especially if you don’t how much you stand to gain from the replacement.

  1. Energy Savings

Outdated windows cannot block thermal transfer as well as modern units. In most cases, they lack weatherproofing features, which allows drafts to seep in and increase your energy bills each month. Replacement windows can eliminate this leakage and help you enjoy better savings on utility bills.11222

  1. Enhanced Appearance

Today’s windows come in a wide array of colors and other options, which can be used to give your home a major facelift. No matter the style of your home, we are confident that you will find a window that suits your taste and budget.

  1. Noise Reduction

If you live near the airport or on a busy street, the noise in your house can become disturbing. Replacing your windows with dual-pane glass can make your home more soundproof. After all, who doesn’t want more peace and quiet in their home?

  1. Maintenance Ease

Windows endure the brunt of harsh weather conditions. If your old windows have wood frames, you probably know how hard it is to keep them looking good, especially after many years. Replacement units, on the other hand, tend to be very low-maintenance. A simple wipe every now and then will leave them looking clean and fresh.

With Total Construction Services, replacing your old windows is just one call away. We provide an exciting selection of siding, windows and other home improvement solutions to keep your home in top shape.

Give us a call today at (402) 572-7457 or fill out our online request form to get a FREE estimate on your next window replacement project. From start to finish, we will work with you to develop a plan that fits your exact needs.

How to inspect your roof for storm or hail damage.

When it comes to the roof, a heavy storm can leave homeowners scratching their heads as to whether or not they’ve incurred damage. The following are a few easy methods to determine if parts of your roof have gone rogue or remained pristine. And you don’t necessarily have to climb a ladder to do it; sometimes a pair of binoculars and a pair of sharp eyes work best.

Look for missing or creased shingles.

Although these signs are not always obvious and usually require a professional inspection, whenever a gap or unsightly groove in your shingles is in plain view, it’s a telltale sign that it might be time for a new roof.

Look for granules that have been washed or forced off your roof.

These granules normally protect the asphalt layer under your shingles from UV damage, and losing them not only indicates damage, but also speeds the aging of your roof. You’ll spot them in your driveway or your gutters if there’s been damage.

Check if other parts of your home, yard, or car have hail or storm damage.

If they do, your roof most likely needs replacement. The roof has a vast amount of surface area and often receives the heftiest brunt of a storm. Think of any adjacent storm damage on your property as “symptoms” that can diagnose the wellness of your roof.

Look at your own neighborhood.

If your neighbors are having their roof replaced, or roofing contractors are suddenly visiting your neighborhood, there’s a good chance you’ve sustained damage.

While these are a few simple DIY tips that could save you time and possibly alleviate some concerns, you can always call the experts at Total Construction Services for a free assessment and the most capable, experienced craftsmen giving your roof the utmost scrutiny. Serving Omaha, Papillion, La Vista and surrounding areas since 1987.

402.572.7457 | mytotalconstruction.com

Hardboard Siding: Is it on your Side?

The majority of us don’t live in Beverly Hills, so it’s understandable that we install what we can afford when it comes to our siding. However, in the eyes of top construction contractors, this explains the unfavorable trend of hardboard siding that can be seen on homes everywhere that were built new over the past few decades. While this product still has the appearance of real wood and several homeowners who use it have dodged the bullet thus far when it comes to water damage, today’s generation of contractors are receiving a growing number of calls about aging hardboard siding that has fallen victim to rain or water damage, swelling and patches of deterioration.

Smart Solutions to Siding.

The good news? Good contractors. They can make the process of siding selection, repair, or replacement far less daunting—even enjoyable. They understand what modern materials and woods are affordable and best resistant to water. They can adeptly handle your siding complaints, communicate with your insurance, and quickly restore your home’s precious coat of armor.

As siding options are growing—from time-tested woods to newer, modern-day-engineered materials—smart homeowners can explore products that not only look better, but offer greater protection, equity and coverage from insurance. Simply put, there’s an option that can be tailored in the interests of your home and your wallet.

In the storm-prone Midwest, it’s important to remember that when it comes to siding, never just go skin deep—you could be inviting water into your home years later. Hardboard siding may have a nice-looking shell, but underneath you’ll find heat-compressed wood fibers, wax and resin, which require more maintenance down the road and offer less performance than other brands. Ask any professional.

Questions about siding?

Whether you’ve incurred siding damage or you’re looking to upgrade to a better option or receive consultation, you can always call a certified contractor serving homes in Omaha, Papillion, La Vista and Bellevue since 1987.

402.572.7457 | mytotalconstruction.com

Home Improvements Can Lower Insurance Premiums

Whether it’s roof replacement, new siding or simple repair work, improvements to the home not only increase your property’s value and comfort, but can also decrease your insurance rates. Savvy homeowners can take advantage of this one-two punch to ensure that equity is flowing into their homes–while money is flowing back into their wallets. So if you own a home, or if you’re simply scouting for a new home, the following are some helpful pointers to remember.

A simple phone call could do wonders.

It’s important to realize that, while insurance providers try to be accurate, they’re not always able to see and know everything. If you make an upgrade to your home, whether major or minor, let them know. In one case, a homeowner’s insurance rose 30% at renewal time, prompting him to call his provider. In a turn of events, he discovered that they were unaware he’d hired professional roofers to install a new roof. The result? They decreased his rate to 10% lower than it was originally. One phone call made a difference of 40% in his premium, proving that a little communication can really go a long way. When it comes to the house, if you improve it, announce it.

A few good questions might lead to insights.

Even right now one can look at a home for possible savings opportunities. Here’s one good question to ask: Is the roof new? Nothing speaks better to an underwriter than a roof with proof. New roofs are safer for you, but safer for insurance providers to cover. And if a roof is constructed of impact-resistant shingles, you could qualify for further discounts–especially if you live in a region prone to occasional hail or high winds.

Another good question to ask: How’s the siding?
Insurance companies will check a building’s exterior material before insuring the property–and materials such as brick, stone, and concrete or cementitious siding are fire resistant and could attract greater discounts. On the other hand, an exterior such as EIFS siding (which looks like traditional stucco but is actually different underneath the surface) is not as fire resistant, or impact resistant, thereby drawing a higher insurance rate. You can always contact a construction professional to get the clearest answers.

And when you do search for the best contractor, ask them: Are they a Haag-Certified Roof Inspector? Do they hold a current certified installer accreditation from the shingle manufacturer? Choosing the right professional with experience already puts you at an enormous advantage in several ways, including insurance. In fact, that’s worth repeating.

A trusted contractor pays off when it comes to insurance matters.

It’s common knowledge that finding a company with experience and great references is crucial in any roofing, remodeling or restoration project. But here’s a lesser known fact: Working with your insurance provider on any home issue becomes far simpler, and more cost effective, when you hire an ethical construction contractor. They not only work with your best interests in mind, but earn the trust of your insurance company and ensure that all parties are on the same page.

A contractor with a sound insurance claim department can communicate directly and knowledgeably with your provider to reach optimum results. They speak the language insurance companies use, and know which materials will fetch greater cost savings for you. Moreover, a good contractor will work on your behalf and make your satisfaction a top priority–unlike, for instance, a public adjuster who works for a percentage of a settlement which becomes needless money out of your pocket. And by working with a company who has simultaneous expertise on both the construction end and the claims end, you’ll achieve results while avoiding any wedge that a public adjuster can drive between you and your insurance provider, hampering your relationship.

At Total Construction, we’ve served homeowners since 1987 with expertise in roofing, remodeling and repair. We work entirely on your behalf to ensure all projects completed on your home–and the savings you receive–are equally satisfying.

402.572.7457 | mytotalconstruction.com

Youth Sponsorship- Shannon Marley

Shannon Marley, 13, with her sponsorship check

Total Construction Services has awarded 5 youth with a $500 sponsorship in the activity of their choice, whether it be a sport or a camp. This is our way of giving back to the community that has given us so much since we opened in 1987.

Shannon Marley is 13 years old and going into the 8th grade at Glenwood Community Middle School. Shannon’s big interest is music. She is learning the piano, but is most interested in vocal performance. She is an alto in her middle school Honor Choir and was featured as a soloist in her school’s last choral concert. Shannon auditioned and was selected for a place in UNO’s Middle School Honor Choir with students from all over Nebraska and Southwest Iowa.

“This was a big achievement for her and a lot of time, effort, and practice went into getting her ready for it,” Shannon’s father John says.

Shannon would like to take voice lessons to further her talent, and this is what the sponsorship funds would go toward.

Total Construction’s Youth Sponsorship Program is just another way that we are giving back to the community and the people who are a part of it. We hope to continue this going forward.

Youth Sponsorship- Sierran Nutter

Sierran Nutter pictured with Total Construction President Kevin Jackson

Total Construction Services has awarded 5 youth in Nebraska and the surrounding areas with a $500 sponsorship in the activity of their choice, whether it be a sport or a camp. This is our way of giving back to the community that has given us so much since we opened in 1987.

At the age of 12 Sierran Nutter decided to give her life to Christ. The following summer she went on her first mission trip with other members of her youth group at Capital City Christian Church in Lincoln. Following the devastating storms that hit Joplin, Missouri the kids did as much as they could in four days to help. The helped with laundry for those who had no resourced to do it themselves anymore and helped sort donations of personal care items and then distributed them.

Since then she has continued to grow in her faith. She has attended camps in Colorado, Indiana and Nebraska. She helped pay her way to many of these by working at the fireworks stand at her church. She has recently signed up for a trip to Table in the Wilderness in Centennial, Wyoming where she will share the gospel and fellowship with other youth. This will likely be her last ‘church camp’ as she just graduated Norris High School, but she is looking for other missions opportunities. She plans to attend college at Wayne State in the fall majoring in Pre-Physical Therapy. There is a thriving student ministry there and she is looking forward to joining.

The sponsorship will go towards her camp and any other mission trips she is looking to do this summer. Sierran is just one of the many amazing youth that Total Construction is sponsoring.

Total Construction’s Youth Sponsorship Program is just another way that we are giving back to the community and the people who are a part of it. We hope to continue this going forward.

Youth Sponsorship- Laynee McAlpin

Laynee McAlpin, a sophomore at Millard West, pictured with Total Construction President Kevin Jackson

Total Construction Services has awarded 5 youth in the Omaha area with a $500 sponsorship in the activity of their choice, whether it be a sport or a camp. This is our way of giving back to the community that has given us so much since we opened in 1987.

Laynee McAlpin is going into her sophomore year at Millard West High School. Last year she started her golf career as a freshman on the Millward West golf team. She was the only freshman to medal at a tournament this past season, which is a great accomplishment. The sponsorship is going to help her pay for private lessons and tournaments this summer to make sure she is ready for the season in the fall.

Total Construction’s Youth Sponsorship Program is just another way that we are giving back to the community and the people who are a part of it. We hope to continue this going forward.

Youth Sponsorship- Madison Dryden

Madison Dryden, 12, with Total Construction project estimator Jeff Muench

Total Construction Services has awarded 5 youth in the Omaha area with a $500 sponsorship in the activity of their choice, whether it be a sport or a camp. This is our way of giving back to the community that has given us so much since we opened in 1987.

Madison Dryden is 12 years old and plays volleyball with the Premier volleyball club on the 12 Gold team. The team is 1st place in the age 12 group in Nebraska, and 4th place nationwide (out of over 2,000 teams) in that age group. She also has an A average in her classes at Two Springs elementary school while playing in volleyball.

“She is a stellar example of how young girls can be leaders in both their school and their athletic choices,” her grandfather Steven Dawes says.

Total Construction’s Youth Sponsorship Program is just another way that we are giving back to the community and the people who are a part of it. We hope to continue this going forward.

Youth Sponsorship- Daniel Holm

Daniel Holms, his friend, and his mother Mary McHale pictured with Total Construction project estimator Jeff Muench

 

Total Construction Services has awarded 5 youth in the Omaha area with a $500 sponsorship in the activity of their choice, whether it be a sport or a camp. This is our way of giving back to the community that has given us so much since we opened in 1987.

Daniel Holm is one of the sponsored children. Daniel is 19 years old and has Down syndrome and a hearing impairment and has attended Camp Munroe, a recreational program that is offered by the Munroe Meyer Institute at the UNMC campus, since he was 3 years old. Camp Munroe is for individuals with developmental disabilities ages 3-21. This program is the only one in the city of Omaha that offers recreational opportunities with trained staff and volunteers along with their typical peers. The sponsorship money will go to pay for Daniel’s attendance at Camp Munroe.

Total Construction’s Youth Sponsorship Program is just another way that we are giving back to the community and the people who are a part of it. We hope to continue this going forward.

4 Reasons You Can Trust Us with Your Contracting Needs

When damage occurs to your commercial property, one of the first things that will come to mind is finding a reliable contractor to assess the situation and offer solutions. With the high number of commercial contractors available for hire, finding the right one can be tricky. When it comes to commercial construction in Lincoln, NE, Total Construction Services is the company that you can trust to get the job done. Here’s why.

  1. We take a personalized approach.

Nothing’s more critical than finding a contractor who listens closely, understands your ideas and has the skill to handle your project smoothly. We map out a custom plan to suit the requirements of each project. In addition, we understand that time is money, so we work fast without sacrificing quality. This ability to ssssmeet your specific needs is what sets us apart from other contractors

  1. We are Haag-certified.

We are proud to be one of the few Haag-certified roofers in the area. This status allows us to address your needs better and provide accurate evaluations for your property. Haag certification is more than mere experience; it’s an assurance of quality.

Total Construction Services also takes pride in being a GAF Master Elite® Roofing Contractor. This award is proof of our experience and high standing in the community, and our ability to provide only the highest standard of sales, service and installation.

  1. We handle insurance matters for you.

You don’t have to deal with your insurance company on your own. We’ve handled insurance claims in Omaha, NE, and surrounding areas for 25 years. We know how insurance companies work and we will work closely with the adjusters to make sure you get the compensation you deserve.

  1. We offer a wide range of services.

While other contractors may limit themselves to one specialty, Total Construction provides a variety of expert services. From remodeling, restoration and roofing projects to minor and whole-structure repairs, we can handle the lot from start to finish. This way, you don’t have to contact multiple contractors for your building’s needs.

For more information or to schedule a FREE consultation, give us a call at (402) 572-7457. You can also fill out our online form and we will get in touch.