Mike Home Improvements Blog

Skylights are more than just attractive architectural features—they offer a range of practical benefits that can enhance your home’s comfort, value, and energy-efficiency. At Mike Home Improvements, we provide top-quality skylight installation in the greater Syracuse, NY area. Here are four advantages of adding skylights to your home. Natural Light Enhances Interior Spaces One of the most obvious benefits of skylights is the natural light they bring into your home. Sunlight streaming in from above can brighten even the darkest rooms, making them feel more open and inviting. Spaces like bathrooms, hallways, or attics that don’t typically have large windows can be transformed with the addition of a skylight. Natural light creates a warm, pleasant atmosphere throughout your home. Energy Savings Skylights can contribute to lower energy bills by reducing the need for artificial lighting during the day. With more daylight entering your home, you’ll rely less on lamps and overhead lights, especially in areas that tend to be dim. By using sunlight to your advantage, you can enjoy a more energy-efficient home. Boost in Property Value and Aesthetic Appeal Homes with skylights often stand out on the market because of the added charm and modern touch they provide. Skylights can increase a property’s resale value by making spaces look more upscale and thoughtfully designed. They add architectural interest and make rooms feel more dynamic. The blend of style and functionality that skylights offer makes them a smart investment that can pay off when it comes time to sell. Connection to the Outdoors and Improved Wellbeing Skylights create a direct connection to the sky, allowing homeowners to enjoy views of the stars or passing clouds from the comfort of inside. This connection to the natural world can have a calming effect and enhance emotional wellbeing. Exposure to natural light has been shown to support better sleep, boost mood, and regulate circadian rhythms. With skylights, your home can become a more energizing place to live. Skylight Installation in Syracuse, NY For skylight installation in Syracuse and the surrounding area, contact Mike Home Improvements at  315-221-9847  . Our local home improvement contractors can expertly handle your roof-related needs. Feel free to give us a call to request an estimate for roofing services in Syracuse!

Your home’s gutter system plays a vital role in directing rainwater away from your roof, walls, and foundation. When gutters are clogged, broken, or improperly installed, they can no longer perform this function effectively. Over time, faulty gutters can lead to significant damage that may require costly repairs. At Mike Home Improvements, we provide expert gutter replacement in the greater Syracuse, NY area. Here are four types of property damage that faulty gutters can cause. Roof Damage When gutters become clogged or start to sag, rainwater can back up onto the roof. This standing water can lead to rot in the roof decking and damage to shingles. During colder months, backed-up water can freeze and form ice dams, which increase the risk of roof leaks and structural strain. Over time, these issues can compromise the integrity of your roof, leading to water damage inside your home and the need for major roof repairs or replacement. Foundation Cracks One of the most serious consequences of faulty gutters is foundation damage. When water isn’t properly directed away from your home, it can pool around the base of the structure. Eventually, this excess moisture could cause the soil to shift or erode, putting uneven pressure on the foundation. This may result in cracks that weaken the structure of your home. Repairing a damaged foundation can be extremely expensive, so prevention is key. Landscape Erosion When gutters discharge water in the wrong places, your landscaping can suffer. Concentrated water flow can wash away mulch, erode soil, and damage shrubs and flower beds. Over time, this erosion can create unattractive gullies and expose plant roots, reducing the aesthetic value of your yard. Proper drainage helps ensure that your landscape stays intact and continues to enhance your property’s curb appeal. Siding Damage Overflowing gutters can allow water to run down the sides of your home, leading to damage to siding. This moisture can cause paint to peel, wood to rot, and siding panels to warp or become discolored. In some cases, the trapped moisture can even infiltrate the walls and affect the home’s interior. Maintaining clean and properly aligned gutters helps protect the exterior of your home from water-related wear and tear. 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 arrange a gutter estimate in Syracuse!

Healthy gutters are integral to protecting your home from water damage by directing rainwater away from the foundation. But as they age, gutters can wear out, develop leaks, or become ineffective. If your gutters are no longer performing as they should, it may be time to replace them. At Mike Home Improvements, we provide expert gutter replacement in the greater Syracuse, NY area. Here are four signs that it's time for new gutters. Sagging or Pulling Away from the House Gutters that are sagging or pulling away from the roofline are a major red flag. This usually happens when gutters become too heavy due to excessive debris buildup or water retention. It can also indicate that the fascia board, which holds the gutters in place, has rotted due to prolonged exposure to moisture. Sagging gutters are ineffective at directing water away from your home. If reattaching them doesn’t resolve the issue, replacing them may be the best solution. Cracks/Holes/Rust Visible damage such as cracks, holes, or rust spots is a clear indication that your gutters are no longer functioning properly. While small issues can sometimes be patched, extensive damage or multiple problem areas suggest that the gutters are nearing the end of their lifespan. Water can seep through these openings, causing leaks that damage your home’s siding and foundation. If you notice widespread deterioration, replacing the gutters is a smarter long-term investment. Frequent Water Overflow If water spills over the sides of your gutters during rainfall, it could mean they are clogged, improperly pitched, or too small to handle the volume of water from your roof. Overflowing water can damage your home’s siding, foundation, and landscaping. While cleaning the gutters may help in some cases, persistent overflow issues often mean that the gutters are no longer suitable for your home’s needs. Upgrading to a properly sized gutter system with better drainage capabilities can help prevent water-related damage. Peeling Paint or Water Stains on Your Home’s Exterior If you notice peeling paint, mold growth, or water stains on your home’s siding, it may be due to malfunctioning gutters. When gutters fail to channel water properly, moisture can accumulate on the exterior walls, leading to costly damage. Water stains near the foundation are another warning sign that the gutters are not directing water far enough away from the house. Replacing old gutters with a more efficient system can help protect your home’s exterior and prevent moisture-related problems. 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 arrange a gutter estimate in Syracuse!

Adding a deck to your property is an excellent way to enhance outdoor living space and boost your home’s value. However, proper planning is essential to ensure your deck meets your needs, stays within budget, and complies with local regulations. At Mike Home Improvements, we can help you with designing your perfect deck. Then, we can expertly construct it. Here are four important considerations when planning a new deck. Determine the Purpose of Your Deck Before you start designing your deck, think about how you plan to use it. Will it be an area for entertaining numerous guests, a relaxing space for your family, or a combination of both? The intended purpose will influence the deck’s size, layout, and features. For instance, if you plan to host large gatherings, you may need a larger deck with built-in seating or an outdoor kitchen. If it’s for personal relaxation, a smaller deck with privacy screens may suffice. Choose the Right Materials The materials you choose for your deck play a significant role in its appearance, durability, and maintenance requirements. Common options include wood and vinyl. Wood offers natural warmth and beauty, while vinyl provides low maintenance and a clean look. Consider your budget and the level of maintenance you’re willing to commit to when selecting materials. Consider Location and Orientation The location of your deck on your property is another critical factor. Think about sunlight, shade, and privacy. A south-facing deck will receive more sunlight, which is great for sunbathing but may require shading solutions. Also, consider how your deck connects to your home and whether it provides easy access to indoor areas like the kitchen or living room. This can be especially important if you plan to use the deck for dining or entertaining. Plan for Lighting and Additional Features Incorporating features like lighting, seating, and storage can enhance the functionality and aesthetic appeal of your deck. For example, built-in lighting can provide safety and ambiance for nighttime use. You might also consider features like planter boxes or even a hot tub, depending on your budget and space. Planning for these features during the design phase will help ensure a well-thought-out result. Deck Construction in Syracuse, NY For deck construction in Syracuse and the surrounding area, contact Mike Home Improvements at  315-221-9847  . Feel free to give us a call to arrange an estimate!