Mike Home Improvements Blog

Gutters play a crucial role in protecting your home from water damage by channeling rainwater away from your roof, siding, and foundation. However, gutters can wear out and eventually need to be replaced. At Mike Home Improvements, we provide expert gutter replacement in the greater Syracuse, NY area. Here are four signs that it may be time to invest in new gutters. Cracks, Holes, or Rust Spots While small cracks may seem harmless, they can quickly grow larger and cause serious water damage to your home’s exterior. If you notice multiple cracks, holes, or rust spots, especially after a rainstorm, your gutters are no longer functioning efficiently. Patching up small holes is only a temporary solution—it’s usually better to replace the gutters altogether to avoid water leaks. Sagging or Pulling Away from the Roof Gutters should sit flush with your roofline to properly direct water away from your home. If you notice that your gutters are sagging or pulling away from the house, it’s a sign that they can no longer support the weight of rainwater and debris. This often occurs when gutters are old or when fasteners have become too loose or corroded. If tightening the fasteners doesn’t resolve the issue, it’s likely time for new gutters. Peeling Paint or Water Stains on Siding If you spot peeling paint or water stains on your siding, this could be a sign that your gutters are not doing their job. Water may be leaking out of damaged or improperly functioning gutters, causing your siding to become wet and damaged. If left unaddressed, this could lead to mold growth and wood rot, which can be expensive to repair. Pooling Water Around the Foundation One of the primary functions of gutters is to direct water away from your home’s foundation. If you notice water pooling around your foundation after it rains, this is a red flag that your gutters aren’t draining water properly. Eventually, this could lead to structural issues. Replacing your gutters can ensure that water is properly directed away from your foundation. Gutter Replacement in Syracuse, NY For gutter installation in Syracuse and the surrounding area, contact Mike Home Improvements at  315-221-9847  . Feel free to give us a call to ask for a gutter estimate in Syracuse!

A shingle roof is a popular and reliable option for many homeowners, but eventually it will need to be replaced. At Mike Home Improvements, we provide expert shingle roof replacement in the greater Syracuse, NY area. Here’s a look at five signs that you should replace your shingle roof. Curling or Buckling Shingles If you notice that your shingles are curling or buckling, this is a strong indication that they’ve reached the end of their lifespan. Curling shingles can lead to leaks and other structural issues because they no longer provide proper coverage for your roof. This is a key sign that roof replacement is necessary to avoid water damage. Missing Shingles Missing shingles expose the underlayment and decking of your roof to the elements, which can result in costly damage. If your roof has lost a number of shingles, it’s time to consider replacing it. A full roof replacement will restore your roof’s protection. Granules in the Gutters Shingle granules help protect your roof from harmful UV rays and can add fire resistance. If you notice granules collecting in your gutters, it’s a sign that your shingles are wearing down. Once the granules are gone, shingles become less effective, making your roof more susceptible to damage. This is a clear sign that a replacement is needed. Roof Leaks Frequent or severe roof leaks are a strong indication that your roof is no longer watertight. Water stains on your ceiling, damp spots in your attic, or drips coming from the ceiling are all signs of leaks. If these issues continue despite repairs, your roof’s integrity has likely been compromised, and a full replacement is the best course of action. Age of the Roof Asphalt shingle roofs generally have a lifespan of somewhere between 15 to 30 years, depending on the quality of materials and installation. If your roof is approaching or has surpassed this age, even if it looks fine on the surface, it’s wise to start planning for a replacement. Older roofs are more likely to fail, especially in extreme weather conditions. Roof Replacement in Syracuse, NY For an experienced roofer in Syracuse and the surrounding area, contact Mike Home Improvements at  315-221-9847  . We also specialize in siding and gutters in Syracuse. Feel free to give us a call to arrange an estimate !

At Mike Home Improvements, we’re proud members of the Syracuse small business community. It’s our mission to earn our customers’ satisfaction by doing top-quality work at fair rates. Whether you need gutter repair or full roof replacement, our team will work meticulously to complete the job to the highest standards. And we appreciate it when our customers offer feedback about their experiences with us. Here’s a look at some of our latest customer reviews. “Very professional, prompt and hardworking crew. Started the roof job on time as promised. Very reasonable in price. They use quality products and guarantee all products and work. We are fully satisfied with Mike Home Improvements and highly recommend them!” — Arturo G. “Dedicated staff with the desire to please. Their hard work didn’t go unnoticed with long hours and high temps. The job started and ended on time. The results were outstanding. We are so happy with the work!” — Jan A. “Had Mike replace roof and siding! Was fast and professional. Was able to help with wind damage claims. Listened and completed scope of work as discussed. I would recommend him to friends and family. Thanks again!” — K. Smith “Thank you to Mike Home Improvements for doing an excellent job repairing my roof. I would highly recommend them if you are in the Syracuse area.” — Lauro M. “Did a great job. Came through with everything promised in contract. Highly recommend them.” — Scott K. “Very happy with Mike Home Improvements installation of my home’s cedar siding! Not many companies were willing, nor have the skills to work with this material. Finding estimates was a difficult process, this company expressed capability to do the job and had a reasonable quote. The crew was polite and professional. Cedar shingle siding is tedious to install but they showed excellent craftsmanship. The shingle lines are PERFECT!! They addressed and fixed any issues that were uncovered. My 100+ old house had some rotten sheathing, and several rotted window trims. All of which they repaired. Manny, the sales representative, addressed all questions or concerns very promptly. Also, once completed, the guys hooked me up with a painter friend of theirs that will paint my second story windows! I’m very happy with the work they performed. My house has the beautiful, rich character I imagine it had when it was built. Definitely give Mike Home Improvements a call for your next project!” — Daniele M. Roofing, Siding, and Gutters in Syracuse For an experienced roofer in Syracuse and the surrounding area, contact Mike Home Improvements at  315-221-9847  . Feel free to give us a call to request an estimate !

Owning a home comes with numerous responsibilities, and one of the most significant is maintaining the roof. Roof damage can be a stressful and costly issue, but homeowners insurance can provide relief. However, navigating the insurance process can feel daunting, making it important to work with a contractor who will help you navigate the claims process. At Mike Home Improvements, our team will work directly with your insurance to help the process go as smoothly as possible. Here’s a look at some of the frequently asked questions about roof damage and homeowners insurance. Does homeowners insurance cover roof damage? Yes, homeowners insurance typically covers roof damage, but the extent of coverage can vary. Most standard policies cover damage caused by sudden and accidental events, such as storms, hail, wind, or fire. However, damage resulting from standard wear and tear or poor maintenance is usually not covered. It's essential to read your policy carefully to understand what is and isn't included. What types of roofs are covered? Most homeowners insurance policies cover various types of roofs, including asphalt shingle, metal, tile, and slate. However, some materials may have different coverage terms or limitations. It's important to verify with your insurer what types of roofs are covered under your policy. Is there a deductible for roof damage claims? Most homeowners insurance policies have a deductible, which is the amount you must pay out-of-pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in. The deductible amount can vary depending on your policy. It's crucial to know your deductible and factor it into your decision to file a claim. Will my premiums increase after a roof damage claim? Filing a claim may result in a premium increase, but this depends on several factors, including the severity of the damage, your claims history, and your insurance company's policies. It’s important to weigh the cost of repairs against the potential increase in premiums before filing a claim for minor damage. Where can I find a roofer in Syracuse that works directly with insurance companies? For a roofer in Syracuse, NY that works directly with insurance companies, contact Mike Home Improvements at  315-221-9847  . Our team will work diligently with your insurance to minimize stress for you. Feel free to give us a call today to request an estimate!