Like many industries, roofing is more complex than it seems, and it continues to become more so with ongoing technological innovations. This article contains some useful information to help you get more acquainted with the basics of the field, including key terms and answers to frequently asked questions.

COMMON TYPES OF ROOFING MATERIALS
There are numerous roofing materials available, each with its particular pros and cons. Here are some of the most common choices:

Wood shakes and shingles
Wood shakes and shingles blend in well with a natural environment, are easy to repair and replace, and can last 30 to 50 years if maintained properly. Read more

Watch this video to compare your Fall home maintenance “to do” list with Chris Bjorklund’s. Read more

Guest Post By Ron Smith, owner of J. Hettinger Interiors

Ready for a makeover? Whether your old sofa needs a facelift or you’re redecorating your entire home, selecting fabrics will be a key part of the design process. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

First, when it’s time to select a fabric for your furniture, cost should be just one of the many factors you consider. A design professional can help you choose fabrics that wear well, clean easily and keep their color over time. Read more

Earlier this week, we posted an article featuring expert tips on roof replacement and maintenance. One of the points mentioned was tile roof maintenance, which consists of several specific measures. To learn more about tile roof maintenance, watch this informative video by Diamond Certified Expert Contributor Tom Rhoads, owner of Roof-Life Construction.

To learn more from local top rated companies, visit our Diamond Certified Expert Reports at experts.diamondcertified.info. Read more

Most homeowners know routine vacuuming and periodic professional cleanings are important for maintaining carpet. However, some aspects of carpet care aren’t always as clear-cut, and they often require specific, painstaking techniques. To gain further insight, we’ve asked four Diamond Certified Expert Contributors to provide a their carpet cleaning how-tos.

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El Niño has finally arrived in Northern California, and the rains have had disastrous consequences…for ants. According to Janet Thrasher of Thrasher Termite & Pest Control, Inc., when rainwater saturates the earth, it floods ants’ colonies and forces them to seek refuge in nearby dwellings. Consequently, ant-related calls to Diamond Certified pest companies are currently on the rise.

How to Get Rid of Ants
If you need to get rid of ants in your house, there are many different ways to go about it, but the most effective way is to destroy their nest. Read more

Much emphasis is put on maintaining the interior of the home, but an equally (if not more important) aspect to address is its exterior. That’s why Dennis Thompson of Thompson Construction says homeowners should take proactive steps to protect the outside of their homes from the elements. Here are Dennis’ top five tips for exterior maintenance: Read more