Top Rated Roofing, Siding, and Window Service in Vandalia, Illinois
Those who live in Vandalia, Illinois have always turned to L & D Wilson’s for their outdoor contracting needs. We offer services for all roofing, siding, and window repair and installation. Our business has been opened for over 40 years and have the best materials in the trade. We also have an abundance of materials, colors, and finishes to choose from allowing for a fun and creative experience. Call L & D Wilson’s for all your exterior home improvement repairs, installations, and inspections.
Our business has been serving Vandalia, Illinois, and surrounding areas for over 40 years! Our job is to make sure all your roofing, siding, window, and awning projects are done properly at an affordable cost. We carry the highest quality materials in our catalog and have something for every budget and style. Call us at L & D Wilson’s and we will be happy to help you with your home improvement project! We cannot wait to get started!
Siding
From new construction installation to minor updates, L & D Wilson’s in Vandalia, Illinois has the tools and materials to leave you and your home stress and worry free! Our materials are cold, and impact tested to ensure that your home will be strong enough to withstand strong outside factors. Our services also come with warranty packages that can be selected upon by our customers! Take the leap and call L & D Wilson’s today for an inspection and to view our siding catalog!
Roofing
At L & D Wilson’s in Vandalia, Illinois, we can install and repair any roof with top of the line materials of your choice. Our company was given the highest honor of CertainTeed’s Select ShingleMaster. With this honor, we can provide our customers with top of the line products including CertainTeed’s Landmark series. We can ensure that your new roof, or current roof repairs will be strong and durable for years to come. Please, if you need roofing repairs or installation, give our team a call!
Windows
Making sure that your home has even temperatures throughout without increasing your energy bill is nearly impossible. If you are struggling with these types of issues, we recommend that you call us at L & D Wilson’s in Vandalia, Illinois and we can get started on installing new windows throughout your home. We offer an array of window options that increase energy efficiency, do not require a lot of maintenance, and add charm to your home at an economical value. If this sounds like you, come and visit L & D Wilson’s Siding and Roofing Inc!
Awning Installation Service Vandalia, Illinois
Having an outdoor entertainment area is desired by many, which is why our awning services are so popular. At L & D Wilson’s in Vandalia, Illinois, we believe that a new awning can completely transform an outdoor living space. We have motorized and manual retractable awnings that come in a variety of materials, colors, and sizes. Give yourself the space you have always wanted and call L & D Wilson’s Siding and Roofing in Vandalia, Illinois today!
Our Services Include:
- Roofing Repair
- Roofing Construction
- Roofing Replacement
- Roofing Inspections
- Siding Installation
- Siding Repair
- Soffit & Fascia Repair & Installation
- Roofing Construction
- Roofing Replacement
- Roofing Inspections
- Siding Installation
- More!
Hear What The Vandalia, Illinois Community Has To Say About Us
Let our clients speak for us. Below are some reviews of some of our many satisfied clients. We ask that if you have experienced our services that you also leave a review! There is always room for growth. See why the Vandalia, Illinois community keeps coming back to us! We offer the best roofing, siding, window, and awning installation in the metro-east area! Are you still not convinced? Please read the comments below by real customers!
We provide the best service and materials in the business and want to make sure your home stays happy and healthy to keep you and your belongings safe. If shingles are falling or you are experiencing outside items inside your home, please give the team at L & D Wilson’s in Vandalia, Illinois a call. Get started with an inspection today!
Find a Roofing Contractor that is Perfect for the Job
Before you get started repairing or replacing the roof of your home or business, your first task is to locate a reliable roofing contractor to hire. At L & D Wilson Siding & Roofing, we put high effort into handpicking contractors who are dedicated to delivering superior craftsmanship, outstanding customer service, and consistent reliability. Our contractors are obliged to meet several strict requirements which include the following:
- Possessing all necessary local and state licenses.
- Having at the very least $1,000,000 in general liability insurance.
- Screening for customer service and financial stability.
Hiring an Experienced Roofer vs. Doing it Yourself
Repairing or installing a roof for your home is a big undertaking that necessitates a significant amount of effort and financial resources in order to be completed. Therefore, it’s crucial to enlist the services of a proficient and trustworthy roofing contractor who possesses a comprehensive understanding of the entire roofing process to guarantee a seamless and hassle-free experience. Additionally, we provide several warranty alternatives that guarantee our contractors’ work will prolong your roof’s life for many years.
Opting for a do-it-yourself method when repairing or replacing your roof can potentially expose you to hazards associated with construction and safety. Therefore, it’s strongly advised to hire a roofing expert to guarantee that the task is accomplished properly and effectively.
Questions That You Should Ask Your Roofing Contractor
Relying solely on recommendations when selecting a roofing contractor may not be the most optimal approach. In order to assist you in making an informed decision, we have compiled a list of essential questions to ask any potential roofing contractor before hiring them for your roofing project.
You need to be sure that the roofing company you are looking to hire has insurance in order to protect your home from potential damage. At L&D Wilson Siding & Roofing, we prioritize the safety and security of your home or business, which is why our contractors carry general liability insurance with a minimum coverage of $1,000,000. This insurance coverage ensures that both parties are protected in the event of any accidents, providing you with peace of mind that your roofing project is in good hands.
It is important to ask whether the contractor offers any additional warranties and workmanship coverage. At L&D Wilson Siding & Roofing, we understand the significance of roofing warranties in protecting your investment. That’s why we offer a range of roofing warranties that cover both material and workmanship, with some options providing coverage for the lifetime of the roof. Our team ensures that you have peace of mind by providing reliable and long-lasting roofing solutions.
Your roofing contractor should understand and comply with all building codes, including local codes.
Ask whether the contractor will provide you with a written estimate, including a detailed description of the work to be performed and any sub-contracted work.
The roofing contractor you are looking to hire should not only inspect for storm damage but also conduct a thorough examination of your home’s entire roofing system. This includes checking the deck, attic, flashings, chimney, soil stacks, and other parts of your roof for potential damage.
Water and Ice Barriers for Your Roof
Advancements in roofing systems have led to significant changes over the years. As a crucial part of any home or business, a roofing system is made up of several components. While roof shingles may be the most noticeable component, there are other crucial layers, such as ventilation, insulation, underlayment, and ice and water barriers. These components work together to ensure the efficient functioning of your roof. For instance, ice and water underlayment products applied to the roof deck act as a waterproof barrier that prevents moisture from infiltrating the roof.
How To Prevent Water from Reaching the Roof Deck
Roofing systems have come a long way, thanks to years of engineering advancements and innovation. Although your roof shingles may be the most noticeable component, a roofing system comprises several parts and layers that work together to protect your home or business. In addition to the shingles, these layers include ice and water barriers, ventilation, insulation, and underlayment. Each of these elements plays a crucial role in ensuring the effectiveness of your roofing system. For instance, ice and water underlayment products placed on the roof deck create a waterproof barrier that prevents moisture from seeping into your roof.
Roof Leaks
Your roof may begin to leak due to various conditions, including:
- Ice Dams: Melting snow that refreezes over the eaves can form ice dams, which block the path to the gutter and cause standing water on the roof. This can lead to water seeping underneath the roof shingles, resulting in leaks.
- High Winds: Shingle edges can lift up during high winds, creating gaps that rainwater can exploit to infiltrate around the nails and wet the roof deck.
- Clogged Gutters: Clogged gutters can cause water to overflow, potentially seeping into your home’s foundation. Additionally, water pooling in gutters can infiltrate underneath the shingles and travel through the fascia, leading to damage to interior walls.
It’s common for gutters to accumulate leaves, seeds, and other debris, as well as suffer from snow and ice problems. However, installing an ice and water barrier can help prevent water from backing up and leaking into your home.
What are Ice and Water Barriers?
To prevent water leakage, you may consider using a water and ice barrier underlayment beneath your roof’s shingles. These barriers create a secure seal around the nails by attaching directly to the roof decking, effectively preventing moisture from infiltrating your home.
These barriers provide added protection to your roof and can be utilized in several areas.
Entire Roof Surface: It may be wise to use a waterproof barrier across the entire surface of your roof beneath the shingles, depending on where you live. This will safeguard your home against heavy rain and prevent water from infiltrating until proper repairs are made, particularly if your home is susceptible to losing shingles during storms.
Roof Penetrations: Whenever you cut into your roof’s decking, it will create an opening that will let water get into it. Having a barrier around the skylights, vents, and chimneys will allow you to seal off gaps around highly vulnerable areas of your roof.
Eaves: Your roof’s edges, known as eaves, are exposed, and wind can lift the tips of shingles and allow water onto your roof deck and into your home. Using a barrier in these areas can prevent water infiltration.
Valleys: Roofs will have valleys and peaks, depending on their architectural design. Rain trickles down from the roof and collects in the valleys before flowing into the gutters. Therefore, using ice and water underlayments in these areas can safeguard your home by forming a waterproof barrier, providing a reliable defense against snow and ice as well as heavy rain.
Ice and water underlayments protect your home and create a waterproof barrier that helps not only protect your roof from rainstorms but from snow and ice as well.
Ice Dams 101
When below-freezing temperatures, heat loss from the attic, and rooftop snow meet, they give rise to ice dams. The severity of this situation increases as temperatures drop and snow accumulates.
Here is how an Ice Dam Forms
- Snow builds up on your roof.
- The will melt due to heat transfer from your attic to the rooftop.
- Melted water flows down the roof’s surface.
- It refreezes after reaching the eaves, creating a solid wall of ice.
- Extra snowmelt will create a pool behind the ice dam.
You can prevent the formation of ice dams on your roof by addressing the issues mentioned earlier. However, if you are already experiencing ice dams, it is recommended to seek assistance from a professional roofing company.
Synthetic VS Felt Roofing Underlayment
Roofing is often linked to visible parts such as shingles or metal sheets, but there is a crucial layer of protection that sits directly on top of the roof deck, below the coverings. This layer plays a significant role in shielding your home from moisture and potential harm.
Roofing Underlayment: What is it?
When it comes to roofing, many individuals focus solely on visible elements like shingles or metal sheets. However, there is another essential layer of protection situated right above the roof deck and underneath the roof coverings. This layer plays a critical role in ensuring that your home is safeguarded against moisture and damage, and some people may not be aware of its existence.
There are two commonly used underlayment materials:
- Felt
- Synthetic
Each type of materials has its own set of benefits and drawbacks. Your choice of roofing product may depend on various factors, including the type of roofing materials, roof design, budget, and recommendations from your roofing contractor.
Synthetic Roofing Underlayment
To enhance protection against the elements, certain roofers prefer to use synthetic roofing underlayment that provides additional water resistance. These underlayments are typically made of strong polymers and offer superior durability and strength. Synthetic underlayment is more efficient in preventing moisture and other environmental hazards when properly installed, as compared to felt.
Pros
Synthetic roofing underlayment offers a range of advantages, including:
- Durability: Synthetic underlayment is highly durable, resistant to tearing, and capable of withstanding extended exposure to moisture and UV radiation. Additionally, it can withstand foot traffic, which is crucial during the installation process.
- Lighter: Synthetic underlayment is up to four times lighter than other types of underlayment.
- Safety: Synthetic underlayment is designed with slip-resistant surfaces to enhance walkability. It is typically marked with fastener indicators and overlay guides to ensure accurate and consistent installation.
- Moisture Resistance: Synthetic underlayment is built to repel water, preventing moisture from entering the home and causing damage like mold or water leaks.
Cons
- Synthetic roofing underlayments are typically more expensive than felt underlayments. However, while the initial cost may be higher, investing in this high-quality roofing material can pay off in the long run. Many contractors recommend choosing synthetic underlayment for the added peace of mind it provides.
Felt Roofing Underlayment
Felt roofing has been a conventional method of underlayment for roofs for a long time. This material is created by joining a fiberglass mat or paper with asphalt. Typically, there are two types of felt underlayment available – No. 15 felt and No. 30 felt. In comparison to No. 15 felt, No. 30 felt is typically more robust, thicker, and less vulnerable to harm caused by the installation or harsh weather conditions.
Pros
For homeowners with a limited budget, utilizing felt roofing underlayment can be beneficial since it is usually more affordable than synthetic underlayment alternatives.
Cons
There are various drawbacks to using felt underlayment on your home’s roof. One significant disadvantage is that it cannot remain exposed to the elements for an extended period, as it may dry out or release oils in the heat, reducing its effectiveness against moisture. Additionally, other disadvantages of using felt include:
- Slippery Surface: This can make it more challenging for a roofing contractor to install.
- Prone to Tearing: Felt underlayment can easily tear during high winds or the installation process, leading to further issues in the future.
- Cannot Get Wet: If this type of underlayment becomes wet, it may cause the mat to wrinkle, making it harder for the shingles to lay flat. If you choose this type of underlayment, the shingles should be placed immediately after installation.
- Weights More: This material is heavier than synthetic alternatives, making it harder for contractors to carry rolls up a ladder onto the roof.
Regardless of the roofing type you opt for, each comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Therefore, it is crucial to consult with our professional contractors at L & D Wilson Siding & Roofing to determine the most suitable underlayment for your residential or commercial roof.
Roofing & Attic Ventilation
While it may not be the first thing you consider, the ventilation of your roof is critical to your home’s health and durability. Sufficient ventilation in your attic can extend the lifespan of your roofing system and ensure your family’s comfort.
How Does Attic Ventilation Work?
To ensure adequate ventilation in an unfinished attic, it is usually necessary to install exhaust vents at the peak and intake vents along the soffits. This arrangement enables a continuous flow of air through the space. As a result, cooler outdoor air is drawn into the soffit vents, while warm, humid air moves towards the roof ridge vents.
Correct ventilation can prevent excessive moisture and heat from causing damage to your home. Without adequate ventilation, heat and moisture buildup can lead to various issues. In warmer months, this can cause the roof sheathing to warp and prematurely age and distort shingles, requiring early replacement. It can also make living spaces uncomfortable by pushing heat downwards. In colder months, this problem can result in ice dams that could cause water to pool and leak into your home.
What Does Improper Ventilation Look Like?
If you suspect that your home has inadequate attic ventilation, there are several signs to watch out for, including:
- Wavy or rippled appearance of your roof line and shingles.
- Increased ice buildup on the roof’s edge during colder months.
- Frequent HVAC repairs, as your equipment is under greater stress and working harder.
- Rising energy bills due to wet attic insulation losing its effectiveness.
- An increase in allergy symptoms or respiratory illnesses among your household members, possibly due to the spread of fungi spores caused by mold growth in the attic resulting from excess moisture.
Winter Siding Tips
Many people find the winter months unbearable due to the harsh weather conditions, which may include sleet, snow, and ice. Such conditions can hurt both individuals and the exterior of their homes.
Fiber Siding
To maintain the curb appeal of your fiber cement siding throughout the year, it’s crucial to take some preservation steps. Since this siding material is known for its weather-resistant and durable nature, you can follow these tips to preserve it:
- Installation and Maintenance by Experts: Proper installation of fiber cement siding requires skilled professionals who are experienced in handling this type of siding. It’s important to have professionals like our team at L & D Wilson Siding & Roofing install and maintain your fiber cement siding to ensure its longevity and uphold the manufacturer’s warranty.
- Regular Painting: Although fiber cement siding lasts longer than wood, it still requires a fresh coat of paint every 10-15 years. To achieve long-lasting results, high-quality paint should be used.
- Annual Cleaning: An annual gentle cleaning using soap and a garden hose is an effective way to eliminate dirt, dust, and mold from your fiber cement siding. This is particularly important after the harsh winter months.
Vinyl Siding
Homeowners appreciate vinyl siding for its low-maintenance nature, but there are still steps you can take to keep it in excellent condition:
- Spring Installation: Wait for warmer spring weather before installing vinyl siding on your home. Cold temperatures can cause vinyl to expand, leading to cracks and buckling. Installing vinyl siding during temperatures of 50-60 degrees Fahrenheit is ideal to avoid such issues.
- Rinse Vinyl Siding: Rinse your vinyl siding once or twice a year to remove any fungus, dust, grime, or mildew buildup. This simple maintenance routine helps maintain your home’s curb appeal with fresh-looking siding.
- Avoid Painting: Do not apply paint to vinyl siding, as it can lead to poor results and potentially damage the material. If you notice that your vinyl siding has faded or discolored, replace it with new siding in a color that you love. This will ensure that your home maintains its curb appeal with fresh, vibrant siding.
- Protect Against Damage: Vinyl siding is prone to damage from branches, debris, and even strong cleaning agents with relative ease.
It’s essential to maintain and ensure the proper installation of your home or business’s siding, regardless of the material used. Therefore, it’s crucial to hire a professional siding installation team to accomplish this task.
Does Your Siding Need to Be Replaced?
Your home’s siding is a critical component that shields it from the elements, enhances its aesthetic appeal, and reduces energy bills. Damaged or dysfunctional siding can lead to unnecessary stress. However, maintaining it need not be intimidating.
At L & D Wilson Siding & Roofing, we understand the significance of correctly installed siding, and thus, offer professional installation services to O’Fallon, IL, and neighboring areas. If you observe any of the following indications on your home’s siding, it’s time to consider our team’s expertise for a replacement.
Visible Rot
The presence of rot on your home’s siding is a big problem that should not be ignored. Rot can weaken your siding and spread quickly, leading to further damage. Therefore, if you observe signs of crumbling or rotting on your siding, it is crucial to reach out to our team immediately. While early intervention may enable our team to repair the siding, in some cases, a complete replacement may be necessary.
Energy Bill Increases
An uptick in your energy bill could be an indication that your home’s insulation is not functioning properly. However, it could also be due to issues with your siding. When siding sustains damage such as cracks or holes, it can lead to a surge in energy costs. Addressing these concerns by repairing the damage can result in lower bills. Additionally, opting for high-insulation siding can improve the energy efficiency of your home and ultimately reduce your energy expenses.
Loose or Cracked Planks
We acknowledge that wind, hail, and snow damage are prevalent, and along with falling branches or other sources of harm, they can cause your siding panels to crack or become loose. This type of damage can leave your home vulnerable to pests and moisture, making prompt resolution crucial.
Faded Color
Fading color on your siding is a sign that it’s time for a replacement. Having a professional siding contractor install new siding with a fresh coat can not only enhance your home’s aesthetic appeal but also increase its value, leaving a lasting impression on your neighbors.
Window Efficiency Ratings of Replacement Windows
If you’re contemplating the installation of new windows in your home, you may come across an array of features and energy-efficiency-related terms that could be challenging to comprehend. To simplify matters, we’ve developed a guide to assist you in comprehending these terms, helping you to choose the window you need.
What are the Differences Between Energy Star & NFRC?
NFRC Label
Energy Star Ratings
The Energy Star program is administered by the United States Department of Energy and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Products that display the Energy Star label indicate that they adhere to the government’s efficiency standards. To earn this label, a product must deliver excellent insulation and prevent heat transfer through the glass.
Energy Efficiency Ratings
As you start comparing various windows, you’ll come across various energy-related terms mentioned in product descriptions or on the NFRC label. Below are some of the commonly used terms and how they can enhance your home’s energy efficiency.
U-Factor or Transfer Coefficient
The U-Factor of a window measures how well it can insulate the interior of your home from the outside. By using features like low-emissivity coatings on the glass, a window’s U-Factor can be improved. When heat takes longer to transfer through the windows, your home becomes more efficient. This means less treated air is lost to the outdoors, keeping your home comfortable and reducing your energy bill.
What to Look For: Low Numbers
Solar Heat Gain Coefficient
This measurement determines how efficiently a window can prevent heat from the sun from entering your home. If you reside in a region that receives more sunlight, a lower Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) rating implies that your air conditioning system won’t need to work as hard to maintain a comfortable temperature inside. Conversely, if you live in a shaded area, sunlight can create more indoor warmth, making a higher SHGC rating more beneficial.
What to Look For: Lower numbers for those in sunnier areas, higher for those in colder/shaded areas.
Visible Transmittance
Visible Transmittance (VT), also known as this measurement, determines how much natural light can pass through a window’s glass. Although it has no bearing on the window’s heat transfer capabilities, it can influence your home’s brightness. With advancements in glazing technology, it’s possible to let more sunlight in without increasing solar heat gain. This can be advantageous for those who prefer natural lighting, as it can help reduce their electricity consumption by reducing the need to use artificial lights to illuminate a room.
What to Look For: High numbers
Air Leakage
This measurement indicates the amount of air that can seep through the window frame. If drafty windows are a significant issue in your home, ensure that the window you choose has a low air leakage value to minimize drafts and keep your utility expenses low.
What to Look For: Low Numbers
Condensation
This measurement pertains to a window’s ability to resist condensation. Unlike other NFRC ratings, this one is entirely optional, and some manufacturers may not include this number in their product descriptions. If your home experiences issues with condensation, having windows that can help mitigate this problem may be a viable solution.
What to Look For: High Numbers
Common Window Replacement Terms
When shopping for replacement windows, you may come across various confusing terms. To help you better understand the window buying process, we have compiled a list of additional terms that you may encounter.
Glass Terms
- Panes: Refers to the glass piece within the window sash. There are different options including:
- Single Pane: a window with one glass sheet.
- Double Pane: a window with two glass sheets separated by insulating gas, commonly used today.
- Triple Pane: a window with three glass sheets separated by insulating gas.
- Spaces: Used to separate the glass sheets in double or triple pane windows. They are made of plastic or metal and provide consistent spacing.
- Glazing: Refers to the whole window glass system, including coating, sealant, and spacers.
- Glass Size: The total measurement of the window glass, including the visible pane and the portion set within the pane.
- Laminated: Glass made by fusing two sheets, which reduces the chance of shattering upon impact.
- Tempered: Glass produced through rapid heating and cooling, resulting in high strength and fewer jagged fragments when broken.
- Wire Glass: Incorporates wire during the manufacturing process, making it less likely to fall out of the sash if broken, and therefore safer.
Frame Terms
Windows are comprised of several components that contribute to its overall functionality.
- Apron (also referred to as Sill Extender): This is the trim that is mounted onto the interior windowsill and extends to the wall beneath it.
- Casing: This is the area between the wall and the window frame, which is covered with casing or molding.
- Head: The top part of the window frame is called the head.
- Jambs: The vertical sides of the frame are referred to as jambs.
- Sash: This component holds the window’s glass securely in place.
- Shims: Small wedges known as shims are utilized to fill any gaps between the casing and window.
- Weep: Weeps are tiny holes in the windowsill that are installed to channel water condensation away from the window interior and exterior.
Styles Terms
There are a variety of window styles available for replacement windows that can fit your home’s design. You can mix and match these styles to suit your needs.
- Awning: These windows have a hinge at the top and open outwards to create a protective awning that keeps rain from coming in.
- Bay and Bow: These windows project outwards from the wall. Bow windows have four or more attached glass units, while bay windows have three or more.
- Casement: This style is popular and opens horizontally, usually with a lever or crank system.
- Egress: These windows are ideal for basements as they are sized and designed to provide an emergency escape route.
- Fixed: This type of window is designed to stay in place and not move.
- Glider/Slider: These windows open from side to side.
- Hung: Windows can be created with a single sash that opens (single-hung) or with both sashes able to open upwards and downwards (double-hung).
- Picture Window: This is a large, fixed window designed to provide ample light and great views, but it does not open.
