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Your Home

A house with landscaping in the front.
Your Home

4 Ideas for Low-Maintenance Front Yard Curb Appeal

All homes can benefit from a little tender loving care, no matter the age or location. Making occasional updates to beautify your property can help maintain its character while enhancing your pride and appreciation. In some cases, home improvement projects can even boost the resale value.If you want to upgrade the look of your home and green spaces without getting on the roof or breaking the bank, there's no shortage of options. Here are four DIY ideas for low-maintenance front yard curb appeal.1. A Fresh Coat of PaintPainting is one of the simplest and least costly DIY home projects, requiring only primer, paint, and a brush. In fact, the most complicated part of painting projects is often choosing what to paint and what colors to use. However, this can be one of the highest-impact, low-maintenance front yard curb appeal projects.Painting your shutters, trim, or even just your front door can give your home a quick facelift. A great way to make your home look as cohesive as possible is to stick to its existing colors and undertones. You can achieve this by keeping the trim or shutter colors within the same color family as your roof.For example, if you have a white home with Hunter Green GAF Timberline HDZ® shingles on the roof, consider a similar shade of green for the shutters and trim. Or, if you have a stucco house with a cooler-hued roof, you can paint your shutters a soft gray or light blue for a modest pop of color.If you're feeling adventurous, consider painting your front door a fun color that will catch the eye and welcome your guests. For cooler-toned homes, try a front door in navy, royal, or even sky blue. For warmer-toned homes, you can be extra playful and paint your front door a bright red.When painting, remember to properly prep and prime all surfaces and use exterior paint. If you plan to refresh your shutters, it's best to remove them from the hinges and lay them flat while working.2. Updated LandscapingLandscaping is another fun way to add front yard curb appeal, but it can feel a little more daunting than an afternoon of painting. To start, visit your local nursery and learn about suitable plants for your area. Figure out how much upkeep and irrigation certain shrubs require, when particular flowers bloom, and the amount of sunshine each plant needs. You may want to dot your landscape with bushes that bloom throughout the year, or you may want a simple and calming lawn filled with lush shades of green. Either way, an expert at your local nursery can help.However, if you only have one afternoon to dedicate to your landscape, you can still make an impact. One quick way to upgrade your property's look is to fill terracotta pots with seasonal flowers in your favorite colors. Place them flanking the front door or beside the mailbox. If your home has a lot of windows, plant beautiful, low-maintenance flowers in windowsill boxes. The best part about potted plants is they're transportable, and you can change the blooms with the season or your mood.As you update your landscaping, choose a color scheme and appearance that complements your home's style and design. If you have a more traditional home with brown Weathered Wood GAF Timberline UHDZ® shingles on the roof, for instance, you could create a rustic, English-style garden that's filled with bursts of colorful flowers. If your home is more modern, on the other hand, stick with a simple landscape design that uses a subdued color palette. You want your front yard to feel connected with the rest of your home.Home featuring GAF Timberline UHDZ shingles in Weathered Wood.3. Improved Walkway DesignAnother DIY project that can give your home low-maintenance front yard curb appeal is improving your walkway. Enhancing your yard's hardscaping can make your home feel more cohesive.If your property has existing gravel walkways, consider matching the color to your home. Gray gravel stones complement a cooler-toned home, and ivory/beige stones work well for a warm-toned home. For instance, if your roof is a color similar to Oyster Grey GAF Timberline HDZ® shingles, consider using slate or bluestone; if it's on the warmer side, use brick.If you like the look of paver stones, pick up lightweight options at your local hardware store and use them to create intricate, eye-catching designs.Home featuring GAF Timberline HDZ shingles in Oyster Grey4. Elegant LightingAn impactful DIY tip for jazzing up your home's curb appeal is upgrading your exterior lighting. Soft, warm lighting can add elegance and offer dramatic flair. This complements homes with GAF Timberline® NS shingles that provide a natural shadow effect.Consider adding a sconce by the front door to make your home feel inviting and cozy. Place outdoor solar-powered lights along walkways. You can also add solar lights at the base of trees to uplight them, creating a sophisticated look at night. As added benefits, solar lights require no hard-wiring and don't affect your electricity bill, which makes them a great low-maintenance front yard curb appeal addition.There's No Place Like Your HomeGiving your home upgraded curb appeal through painting, landscaping, hardscaping, and lighting can make a big difference without requiring too much time or money. In addition to giving you a newfound sense of pride, your neighbors may also appreciate the property's updates. Best of all, these exterior DIY projects can potentially increase your home's sale price. It's often easier for buyers to envision themselves in a beautiful, well-maintained home.If you want to take your home's exterior to another level, think about upgrading your roof. A new roof requires less maintenance and can help refine your property's appearance. Explore the GAF Virtual Home Remodeler to envision different ways your home could look, and reach out to a local GAF-certified contractor* to discuss your roofing project.*Contractors enrolled in GAF certification programs are not employees or agents of GAF, and GAF does not control or otherwise supervise these independent businesses. Contractors may receive benefits, such as loyalty rewards points and discounts on marketing tools from GAF for participating in the program and offering GAF enhanced warranties, which require the use of a minimum amount of GAF products. Your dealings with a Contractor, and any services they provide to you, are subject to the GAF Contractor Terms of Use.

By Cristina Soriano

September 27, 2024

Featured Blogs

  • A metal roof system being installed on a home by a roofer.
    Your Home

    How Metal Roofing Materials Withstand Extreme Weather

    Harsh weather can damage your home, leading to expensive repairs or even making it unlivable in the worst cases. While you can't control the weather, you can take steps to try and minimize damage—like installing a durable roof.If you live in an area prone to harsh weather, metal roofing materials can help protect your home from elements like hail, rain, snow, and wind. Here's what you need to know about metal roofs and the protection they offer.Wind and Impact ResistanceMetal roofing shingles can help resist high winds due to their interlocking system, which helps provide wind uplift resistance. Interlocked panels help keep the materials in place and reduce the areas where winds can cause uplift, like the eaves and edges. Metal's smooth surface also lets air flow easily over it.The GAF TimberSteel™ Premium Metal Roofing System passes the ASTM D3161, Class F test method, wind resistance for the ASTM D3161, the highest possible category for wind resistance of steep slope roof coverings. This means it has been tested to handle 110 mph wind speeds under the Standard Test Method for Wind Resistance of Steep Slope Roofing Products (Fan-Induced Method)*.GAF TimberSteel™ metal field shingles are classified to UL2218 Class 4 Impact Resistance, the highest rating available.Moisture ResistanceOffering excellent protection against wind-driven rain, the GAF TimberSteel™ passes the TAS -100 Wind-Driven test* for rain water intrusion.Custom Snow SolutionsWhile rain is one problem, snow can also damage your roof. Snow adds a heavy load to your roofing structure, and moisture can enter your home as it melts if given the opportunity.Metal roofs have a smooth surface that allows snow to slide off which may help prevent ice dams that form when snow melts and refreezes. Custom snow guards are available in the colors of the TimberSteel™ system to complement your roof.UV Radiation ResistanceSunlight can break down roofing materials over time. Metal roofing helps resist the sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays which may contribute to its longevity.Consider Metal RoofingWith more areas experiencing extreme weather, homeowners all over the country may benefit from considering metal roofing materials.Does metal roofing sound right for your home? Explore the options GAF offers and sign up to get updates about the availability of GAF TimberSteel™ in your area.*Testing conducted under controlled laboratory conditions.

    By Mark Soto

    October 02, 2024

  • Contractor on a roof install with workers
    Your Home

    What to Look for When Finding a Contractor

    Your roof is a long-term investment that helps protect your family, may improve your home's resale value, and crowns your home's aesthetic so finding a contractor that is qualified is very important. To help you choose a roofing contractor with confidence, here are three qualities to look for.1. Professional Experience and ReputationBefore you hire, do your research. Choose a company based on experience and reputation—not just price. If you decide on price alone, you may not be making the best choice.RecommendationsWord-of-mouth from trusted sources is a great starting place. Ask neighbors, friends, and online community forums for referrals.ResearchVisit the company's website to determine the products and services it offers—as well as the number of years it's been in business. Then, verify the company is licensed and insured.ReviewsNext, read reviews from multiple online platforms to learn about customer experiences. Resources could include Google Reviews, Yelp, Better Business Bureau, and the company's social media pages. While searching, look for info such as ease of interactions, professionalism during installation, cleanup after project completion, and overall satisfaction with the outcome.2. CertificationsFinding a contractor certified by a manufacturer typically indicates that a contractor has met the certification requirements of the manufacturer. For example, contractors certified by GAF must be insured and licensed in states where they operate (if required). GAF also considers factors such as years of roofing experience, credit rating and overall standing with the Better Business Bureau.Higher tiers of certification may be allowed to offer better enhanced warranties on qualifying roofing systems. For example GAF Master Elite® Contractors are entrusted to offer the GAF Golden Pledge Limited Warranty* on qualifying roofing systems, which provides up to 30 years of misapplication coverage.VerificationVerify contractor certifications whenever possible. For example, the GAF website lets you verify whether a company is certified by GAF by simply entering their phone number or contractor ID.AwardsIn addition to certifications, select contractors may also qualify for manufacturer awards. For example, the highest distinction a GAF Master Elite® contractor can earn is the GAF's President's Club Award. This award indicates that a contractor has demonstrated commitment to installing GAF roofing systems backed by GAF's strongest warranties and dedication to learning about GAF's products and services.3. Operational ApproachAfter identifying several contractors, consider these talking points when interviewing the contractors:ExperienceAsk the contractor whether it has experience installing roofs on the type of roof architecture you have.AvailabilityWhen do you need the project to start, and when can the company actually do the installation? If your roofing needs are urgent (leaks, damage, etc.), make sure they can perform the work in the timeframe you are looking for.EstimateAsk the contractor to provide you with an estimate. As a preliminary step, try using GAF's estimate tool. However, keep in mind that the estimate provided by the tool is non-binding and contractors will provide their own estimates. Review actual estimates from contractors closely to understand what is included. The cheapest option is not always the best. Consider experience, and reputation, too.Payment OptionsAsk your contractor about payment options, including payment and financing options to make sure you choose the best option for you.Starting Your SearchPrioritizing these qualities when looking for a contractor may help you find the right company for the job.Are you ready for a new roof? Find a GAF certified roofing contractor** today.*See GAF Golden Pledge Limited Warranty for complete coverage and restrictions.**Contractors enrolled in GAF certification programs are not employees or agents of GAF, and GAF does not control or otherwise supervise these independent businesses. Contractors may receive benefits, such as loyalty rewards points and discounts on marketing tools from GAF for participating in the program and offering GAF enhanced warranties, which require the use of a minimum amount of GAF products. Your dealings with a Contractor, and any services they provide to you, are subject to the GAF Contractor Terms of Use.

    By Annie Crawford

    August 20, 2024

  • The GAF TimberSteel™ premium metal roofing system on a house
    Your Home

    3 Disadvantages of a Standing Seam Metal Roof

    When you're choosing the right roofing material for your home, you might rule out metal. Metal roofs are often expensive and noisy, and they can look wavy or distorted (known as oil canning). However, GAF has an alternative that allows you to get the durability and aesthetic appeal of a metal roof—without the high cost and finish concerns.What Is a Standing Seam Metal Roof?A standing seam metal roof is a series of mechanically attached metal panels. The attachment points, called standing seams, create a thin ridge along the outside of each panel. These seams allow the metal to expand and contract as the temperature changes without sacrificing the roof's ability to protect your home from moisture. The panels are attached to the roof structure under each seam. The fasteners don't show externally, giving the roof a consistent look.Disadvantages of a Standing Seam Metal RoofStanding seam metal roofs are known for their smooth aesthetic and durability. But they can have three significant downsides.1. PriceBetween the cost of metal and the need for professionally trained installers, standing seam roofs can cost two to three times as much as a standard asphalt shingle roof. The material cost depends on the metal's thickness, the requested finish, and the roof's size. Installation can also cost more because it takes specialized training to install the panels correctly. If they're not, they can experience leaks and metal expansion.2. NoiseWhen it rains on a metal roof, it's noisy. Attaching the roof panels to solid wood decking and adding rigid insulation can help reduce the noise level, but you can't completely get rid of it. You might like hearing the pitter-patter of raindrops on your roof during a storm. But if you don't want this extra noise in your home, you may want to avoid a metal roof.3. Oil CanningOil canning is a finish issue that occurs when the metal panels are fastened too closely together. The panels have room to expand lengthwise but not sideways. The finish begins to look like it's bubbling and continues to get wavier over time. Note that oil canning is an aesthetic issue caused by improper installation, not a material defect. The roof will continue to offer protection but will appear warped.An Alternative to Standing Seam Metal RoofsThe GAF TimberSteel™ premium metal roofing system provides an alternative to standing seam metal roofs. Here are some features to keep in mind.1. Lower costThe TimberSteel™ system can be easier on the budget and easier to install than a traditional standing seam metal roof. While installation costs will vary by location, GAF's system offers more efficient installation than traditional standing seam panels, giving you the opportunity to save additional time and money.2. BeautyInstead of sacrificing looks for durability, the GAF TimberSteel™ system is made with an embossed vertical grain, giving the appearance of traditional roof shingles, with the strength of steel. It is specifically designed to help avoid common issues, like oil canning, that traditional metal roofs present. The TimberSteel™ system is also available in a variety of colors to suit your home and taste.3. Durable finishAs the first metal shingle from GAF, the TimberSteel™ Premium Metal Roofing System is constructed out of GALVALUME® steel and coated with a combination of aluminum and zinc, which help to protect against corrosion. The GAF TimberSteel™ system also passes UL's toughest impact-resistance test — UL 2218 Class 4.In addition, metal roof systems are completely recyclable when reaching the end of its useful life, making them a great choice for the environment.While GAF's new metal roofing system is currently only available in select areas, you can learn more and sign up to receive information about the TimberSteel™ system, including updates on availability in your area, by visiting gaf.com/metal.

    By Dawn Killough

    March 21, 2024

  • A roofer unloads shingles on to the roof of a house prior to installing them
    Your Home

    How to Find a Roofer You Can Trust

    Whether it's time for a new roof or a repair, you'll need a roofing contractor to help you make the right choices for your home. But if you haven't hired a roofer before, you may not know what to look for.From referrals and licenses to manufacturer certifications, here's how to find a roofer you can trust with your home.Ask for Recommendations or ReferralsOne of the best ways to find a roofer is to ask people you trust for recommendations. If you have a friend, relative, or neighbor who has had their roof repaired or replaced in the last few years, ask them who they used.Many communities and neighborhoods also have local Facebook groups or message boards. You can use these resources to get recommendations for experienced local contractors—and find out what roofing companies you should avoid.Look for Manufacturer CertificationsSome roofers become certified by one or more roofing manufacturers.If a contractor is part of a manufacturer's certification program, the contractor is more likely to be familiar with the manufacturer's products and may be eligible to offer enhanced warranties. Each program has it's own requirements so you should check the manufacturer's website to see what a particular certification entails.For instance, GAF Master Elite® contractors must be insured and licensed in states where they operate (if required). GAF also considers factors such as years of roofing experience, credit rating and overall standing with the Better Business Bureau. GAF Master Elite® contractors are the only roofing contractors who can offer the GAF Golden Pledge® Limited Warranty* with up to 30 years of workmanship coverage on qualifying roofing systems.In addition to certification programs, manufacturers may recognize certain contractors with awards. For example, GAF Master Elite® President's Club award-winning contractors demonstrate continued excellence in three key areas: performance, reliability, and service. Over the course of the prior year, award winners must have installed a minimum number of roofing systems that qualify for the highest warranties.Review the Contractor's Online ReputationWhether you first connect with a contractor through a recommendation or a quick Google search, do some online research to ensure you find a roofer you can trust.Read company reviews, see what customers say on the contractor's social media pages, and visit the contractor's website for details on their products, services, and experience. You're looking for a company with a good track record and reputation. Once you've gathered all this information, you'll be able to make a more educated decision.Check the Contractor's License and InsuranceYou want to work with a licensed contractor (in states where licensing is required). If your state requires roofers to be licensed, run a license check on your state's Department of Consumer Affairs or business licensing website.Also, make sure the contractor is insured with coverage for all their employees and subcontractors. This will help protect you if a worker injures themselves on your property or damages your home while working.Visit the Better Business BureauThe Better Business Bureau (BBB) has a database of information about businesses in different industries across the country. You can search by business name or business category (i.e., roofing), and then enter the name of your town or zip code to find companies that have BBB accreditation or a high rating. Some listings also feature customer reviews, which is another way to determine whether you want to work with a particular roofer.Choosing the Right Roofing Contractor for Your HomeWhen you find a roofer you can trust to work on your home, price shouldn't be your only consideration. Experience, quality of service, and reputation also matter.Take the time to research potential roofers. Ask for recommendations, look for contractors with manufacturer certifications, and check your state's contractor registration or licensing site and the BBB website. Following all these steps can help you pick the right roofing company for your job.Once you've selected a contractor, it's time to get ready for your roofing project to begin. Check out this checklist for your next roofing project for next steps.*Contractors enrolled in GAF certification programs are not employees or agents of GAF, and GAF does not control or otherwise supervise these independent businesses. Contractors may receive benefits, such as loyalty rewards points and discounts on marketing tools from GAF for participating in the program and offering GAF enhanced warranties, which require the use of a minimum amount of GAF products. Your dealings with a Contractor, and any services they provide to you, are subject to the Contractor Terms of Use. Visit www.gaf.com/gaf-contractor-terms-of-use for details**Eligibility requirements, coverage, terms and restrictions apply and vary based on the enhanced warranty and products installed. For details and to view fullGolden Pledge Limited Warranty visit https://www.gaf.com/en-us/resources/warranties/residential. Visit gaf.com/LRS for qualifying GAF products.

    By Dawn Killough

    December 08, 2023