Search Results

Taking on home improvement projects can feel like navigating a maze. You want to enhance your space, boost your property value, and maybe even add a touch of personal style. But where do you start? How do you avoid costly mistakes and endless delays? The key lies in smart strategies that keep your project on track, on budget, and stress-free. Whether you’re refreshing a single room or planning a full-scale renovation, these tips will help you make the most of your investment. Planning Your Smart Home Renovations Before you pick up a hammer or call a contractor, you need a solid plan. Smart home renovations begin with clear goals and a realistic budget. Ask yourself what you want to achieve. Are you looking to increase energy efficiency? Create more living space? Or simply update the look of your home? Knowing your priorities will guide every decision. Start by listing your must-haves and nice-to-haves. This helps you focus on what really matters and avoid getting sidetracked by trendy but unnecessary features. Next, research local building codes and permits. Skipping this step can lead to fines or having to redo work. When budgeting, include a contingency fund of at least 10-15% for unexpected expenses. Renovations often uncover hidden issues like outdated wiring or water damage. Planning for these surprises keeps your project moving smoothly. Finally, choose your contractors carefully. Look for companies with strong reputations and proven experience in your area. For example, Solomon Contracting has been a trusted name in the St. Louis metropolitan area for over 39 years, known for reliable roofing and remodeling services. Their clients often come through referrals, a testament to their quality and trustworthiness. Picture of bathroom remodel done by Solomon Contracting Essential Tips for Efficient Home Improvement Efficiency is the name of the game when it comes to home improvement. Here are some practical tips to keep your project running like clockwork: Set a realistic timeline: Avoid rushing. Give yourself enough time for each phase, including design, permits, construction, and inspections. Communicate clearly: Keep open lines of communication with your contractor. Regular updates help catch issues early. Prioritize quality materials: Cutting corners on materials can lead to costly repairs down the road. Invest in durable, energy-efficient options. Prepare your home: Protect your belongings and create a safe workspace. Cover floors, move furniture, and set up dust barriers. Stay flexible: Even the best plans can hit snags. Be ready to adapt without losing sight of your goals. By following these steps, you’ll reduce stress and increase the chances of a successful renovation. Why did Home Improvement really end? While this question might bring to mind the popular TV show, it also reflects a broader shift in how people approach upgrading their homes. The era of quick fixes and DIY disasters is fading. Today, homeowners and businesses alike demand smarter, more sustainable renovations. This means focusing on long-term value, energy efficiency, and professional craftsmanship. The rise of smart technology and eco-friendly materials has transformed the home improvement landscape. People want homes that are not only beautiful but also functional and future-proof. This shift has encouraged contractors to raise their standards and offer comprehensive services that cover everything from roofing to remodeling. In the St. Louis area, companies like Solomon Contracting have adapted by becoming one-call solutions for both residential and commercial projects. Their experience means they understand the local climate, building codes, and customer expectations. This expertise helps clients avoid common pitfalls and achieve lasting results. Window replacement to brighten up and elevate this room How to Choose the Right Contractor for Your Project Choosing the right contractor can make or break your renovation. Here’s how to find a partner you can trust: Check credentials: Verify licenses, insurance, and certifications. Read reviews: Look for consistent positive feedback and how the company handles complaints. Ask for references: Speak directly with past clients about their experience. Get detailed quotes: Compare pricing, timelines, and materials. Evaluate communication: Choose someone who listens and explains clearly. A contractor with a strong local reputation, like Solomon Contracting in St. Louis, offers peace of mind. Their long-standing presence and referral-based business model show they deliver quality work and customer satisfaction. Maximizing Value with Smart Upgrades Not all renovations add equal value. Focus on upgrades that improve comfort, efficiency, and curb appeal. Here are some smart ideas: Energy-efficient windows and doors: Lower utility bills and increase comfort. Roof replacement or repair: Protect your home and prevent costly water damage. Kitchen and bathroom updates: Modern fixtures and layouts attract buyers and improve daily life. Outdoor living spaces: Decks, patios, and landscaping boost enjoyment and resale value. Smart home technology: Thermostats, lighting, and security systems add convenience and appeal. Remember, the goal is to enhance your home’s function and style without overspending. Prioritize projects that fit your lifestyle and local market trends. Keeping Your Project on Track Staying organized is crucial. Use these strategies to keep your renovation moving forward: Create a project timeline: Break down tasks week by week. Track expenses: Use spreadsheets or apps to monitor your budget. Schedule regular check-ins: Meet with your contractor to review progress. Document everything: Keep contracts, receipts, and permits in one place. Prepare for disruptions: Have a backup plan for delays or unexpected issues. By staying proactive, you’ll avoid surprises and keep your project aligned with your vision. Your Trusted Partner for Home Improvement in St. Louis When it comes to roofing and remodeling, you deserve a partner who understands your needs and delivers quality results. Solomon Contracting has built a reputation over 39 years as the go-to contractor in the St. Louis metropolitan area. Their commitment to excellence means you get reliable service, expert advice, and a finished product you can be proud of. Whether you’re tackling a small repair or a major renovation, smart planning and the right team make all the difference. Start your project with confidence and watch your home transform into the space you’ve always wanted. For more information on how to get started, visit Home Improvement. By following these smart strategies, you’ll turn your home improvement dreams into reality with less hassle and more satisfaction. Remember, a well-planned renovation is like a well-tuned engine - it runs smoothly and takes you where you want to go.

Tuckpointing is a term used in the United States to refer to the techniques and methods of repair of brickwork. The original technique of tuckpointing was developed in England in the late 1800's to imitate brickword constructed using rubbed bricks with white lime mortar. Today the term is used to describe various techniques and methods of brickwork maintenance and repair. The following are the main terminologies and techniques used in the United States. Solid Tuckpointing: Removal of the existing deteriorated mortar from between the bricks, stone, or blocks approximately 5/8” to ¾” deep, and replacement with new mortar on an entire wall, chimney, foundation, or column. Solid tuckpointing lasts approximately 35 years. Spot Pointing: Preparation and repair of only the worst areas or only the areas with missing mortar. Spot pointing can range from “loose” (cracked) joints to open (missing mortar) joints and settlement cracks. It is important that you understand the exact scope of work so that your expectations align with our proposed scope. Mortar: Consists of a pre-determined mixture of Portland cement, sand, and sometimes chemicals conducive to the outside overnight temperature, and sometimes dye for proper color match. Color matching requires knowledge and experience yet is seldom an exact match. Mortar generally takes 30 days to cure, over which time the new mortar will change color. Acid Washing: Chemical cleaning of a solid tuckpointed area to remove mortar residue from the brick, stone, or block. This process is not always necessary and adds to the cost of the job. Waterproofing: Use of a clear chemical solution, typically silicone based, to penetrate the existing masonry surface to repel water thus preventing penetration of moisture into the masonry. Waterproofing is not required but can be an effective barrier to problem areas where excessive moisture is present. Waterproofing is relatively inexpensive but does create a maintenance situation if you desire to keep the masonry surface water repellant. Thanks for your interest. More later. Mark Solomon

What do you need to know about shingle roof replacement by “Insurance Claim Specialists” types? Here is a list of some of the most common Roofing A-B-C, Roofing 101, basic mistakes I see on a day to day basis by the hail storm beggars (telemarketing, door knocking solicitors who portray themselves as qualified roofing installers – HA!). First of all let me say that the workers who are actually nailing on the shingles (notice I did not refer to them as “roofers”) want to do a good job, but th ey have learned bad techniques that continues to get passed on to more and more men, year after year, storm after storm, so that they all commit the same grievous errors, without any truly experienced quality control personnel to knowledgably inspect the finished job after them. Oh, the man at your door that gets you to sign the contract looks and sounds really good but remember, he is selling you something he has never installed himself or had to be accountable for, or will be held accountable for, because his is only a temporary job in a strange city. And if he is a St. Louisan, he only works for this “local” company after a hail storm, and will be with another “local” company when the next storm hits. The Errors some companies make when roofing: 1) Insufficient eave overhang. According to shingle material manufacturer’s instructions and industry standards, the shingle material is to extend past the eave fascia board (gutter edge) 1 ½”. Typically it is less, which causes water to get on the wood fascia board causing eventual rot, and to leak behind the gutter causing inconvenience, flower bed erosion, and possible basement moisture penetration. There is no easy repair remedy for this situation. Is your shingle overhang 1 ½”? Is you labor guarantee still in effect? Call us if you need help to identify this egregious lack of proper roofing installation. 2) Shingle end seams too close to the middle of the valley(s), too close to a wall, or improperly located near protrusions, i.e. vents, pipes, etc. Although this is easier and less costly to repair, the damaging effects can also involve interior damage to the attic and living space. Where these improperly located shingle end seams are are also a whole bunch of extra needless nails which also are a moisture entry (leak) source. I know your roof looks good from the ground, but what is under the shingles next to the pipes, vents, skylights, chimneys, and walls? Will these flashing areas remain leak free for the 30+ year service life of your new roof? Will the marketing and sales “company” that installed your new roof be around for the warranty work 3 years from now? If you would like to know what’s under your shingles at the detail flashing areas call us. For the sake of brevity I will stop now and leave you with a hint of another error I see on every roof, namely improper field shingle pattern, this is not repairable and that technically voids the material manufacturer’s 30 year limited lifetime guarantee on the shingle material. And, once again, this situation is NOT repairable. I’ll explain more later.

A well-designed drainage system is essential to remove excess water from your house and helps in the prevention of water-related damage to a home or building. The main objective of a drainage system is to collect and remove waste matter to maintain healthy conditions in and around a building. Having a depth of knowledge about all the different types of drainage systems will make all the difference when it comes to waterproofing your home and creating your dream property. Remember, the longer water sits on a surface, the more susceptible it is to contamination and deterioration of structural integrity and may require further environmental testing. Below is a list of residential drainage systems. These include surface, subsurface, downspout and gutter systems, and sump pump. Poor Drainage What is the proper slope of your yard away from your home? According to the EPA, patio slabs, walks and driveways need a minimum slope of 1/4 inch per foot away from the house with back-fill to prevent settling. The final grade must be sloped away from the foundation by 1/2 inch per foot over a minimum distance of 10 feet. Sometimes this also translates to 1-2% grade away from the foundation. 7 Gutter Drainage Solutions for Your Gutters Seriously consider installing gutter guards. ... Be sure to clean & inspect your gutters regularly. ... Always have splash blocks. ... Install underground gutter drainage (corrugated pipes) ... Use a rain barrel. ... Install river rock to create a drainage system. ... French drains. Why is proper drainage important for health? Proper drainage slopes down and away from foundation Proper drainage around your home is important for health because wastewater and sewage can contaminate our water supply. It can also create a breeding ground for diseases. A good drainage system also helps keep you comfortable and healthy by preventing condensation, which prevents the growth of mold and mildew. It also deters the accumulation of moisture, which can promote the development of dust mites and mildew. All in all, proper drainage is necessary in having a healthy home. It also prevents Soil Er erosion. A build-up of water over time can lead to soil disintegration which creates muddy surfaces and then soil erosion occurs.

Remember the good old days when the only things April showers brought were May flowers? These days, they also bring wind, hail, lightning, roof leaks and floods — weather events that can do a lot of damage to property. Here are simple things you can do to prepare your home for spring storms, so you can hole up in your snug-as-a-bug home without worry. INSPECT YOUR HOME Check your roof. Roofs are particularly susceptible to high winds and tornadoes. An inspection by a professional may reveal weak areas that need attention. Look for loose siding and roofing materials — especially shingles and metal panels. These may blow off easily and take other materials along with them. Make sure you have surge protection. A lightning strike or power outage could fry your expensive devices. Keep up with tree-trimming. Dead branches can cause a lot of damage when they land on your house or your car. Clean out your gutters. If they’re plugged up, the water will find somewhere else to go — like your basement, between the siding and exterior walls, or through leaky windows. Test your sump pump. If it’s not working, it won’t do you much good if water does end in your basement. Batten down the hatches. If you know bad weather is coming, put away or secure any outdoor furniture, toys, bikes, etc. PACK YOUR EMERGENCY KIT Packing emergency kits for your home and your car will prepare you and your family for severe weather. Ready.gov recommends including the following items in your kit. Flashlights and extra batteries. First aid kit that includes necessary medications. If you have small children, also include formula and diapers. Non-perishable food. Include protein-rich foods such as nuts and energy bars and canned foods. Pack a manual can opener, too. Water is even more important than food. Pack at least 1 gallon of water per person per day. Basic tools including pliers, a wrench, and screwdrivers. Radio, either battery-powered or hand-cranked. Clothes including gloves, hat, and rain poncho. You may also want a change of clothes for each member of your family. Blankets or sleeping bags. Cell phone chargers that can be used in the wall or in your car. Pet supplies for your pet, including food and water. Cat litter for better tire traction. Jumper cables for your vehicle. When a big storm damages your roof, you need to repair it as soon as possible. But you can’t live with a giant hole in your roof until a full repair crew can get out to fix it. Your homeowners policy also probably requires you to take reasonable steps to minimize any further damage to your property. Call our emergency roof repair number and we’ll come out and expertly tarp it over. That way, you minimize the damage and make your home safe until you can schedule a complete repair. Schedule a Free Roof Inspection Online Here 314-890-8000

Solomon Contracting favors CertainTeed shingles, although we do accommodate other brands upon customer request. Drawing from our extensive 36 years of experience in the roofing industry, we believe CertainTeed's Landmark product stands out as a top-tier shingle on the market, and we aim to share our positive experiences with manufacturers to ensure you receive the best quality. Product Overview: CertainTeed Landmark Shingles CertainTeed's Landmark shingles are a highly sought-after choice for homeowners seeking durability and aesthetic appeal in their roofing. These shingles boast a dual-layer design, featuring a robust fiberglass base and a protective outer layer that collectively provides exceptional protection against various weather elements. With a Class A fire resistance rating from Underwriters Laboratories, Landmark shingles assure homeowners of a safe and reliable option against fire hazards. The inclusion of StreakFighter® algae resistance also guards against unsightly black streaks caused by algae growth. Available in a range of colors, Landmark shingles cater to diverse home aesthetics. The multi-layer design ensures superior weather protection, contributing to the longevity and resilience of the roof. Installation is made seamless with self-sealing adhesive strips and the NailTrak® feature, providing clear nailing targets for contractors to achieve a professional finish. Capable of withstanding winds up to 110 mph, Landmark shingles are composed of a durable fiberglass mat base, coated with asphalt, and embedded with ceramic-coated mineral granules for added protection. The shingles come with a limited lifetime warranty, providing homeowners with peace of mind. CertainTeed's Landmark Shingle Warranty Features: Lifetime limited transferable warranty* 25-year algae-resistance warranty NailTrak extra-wide nailing area for accurate installation 10-year SureStart™ protection 15-year 110 mph wind-resistance warranty Wind warranty upgrade to 130 mph available. CertainTeed starter and CertainTeed hip and ridge required In summary, CertainTeed's Landmark shingles strike an excellent balance between aesthetics, durability, performance and price. With their fire resistance rating, multi-layer design, and diverse color options, Landmark shingles are the ideal choice for homeowners seeking a premium roofing option that can withstand even the harshest weather conditions.

Some of you may not know this, but 7 plus years ago I hired a CFO and a COO to start working on Solomons financial and operational processes to create business sustainability for our future and for our customers. I wanted everyone here at Solomon to be commited to improving our services and products that we bring to you and so we have been sharpening our saw so to speak. Both of these guys work mainly in the background supporting my managers and field staff and making sure we are servicing you with world class customer service. They have become invaluable to our operation. An example of something initiated by these guys is an “Employee Accountability” program. This truly was a cultural change for our company. Think about it; a construction company talking about integrity, honesty, and accountability. Can you imagine the pushback? Well, there was, for a long time, but, employee accountability ultimately emerged. Great stuff for our company All of our employees apprecieate having clear expectations of their accountability. I believe our employees are happier, and they perform better on our jobs because of being held accountable for their actions. They embrace a higher standard of accountability because they know that it is what separates them from the other companies you might talk to. Our employee accountability program is responsible for reducing company fleet fuel usage, material and labor waste, reduced confusion of company expectations for employees and even new operational processes for better service. “We all want you to be our customer for life” You tell us all of the time how awesome our employees are, which is a reflection of the high standards we feel we have for each of them and, it's also a reflection of the high standards that each of them have accepted for themselves. The Solomon Contracting staff is awsome if you ask me. Thank you for reading this post. Thank you for being a loyal customer.

For those of you who have purchased an old home with the purpose of renovating it for your long-term abode the last place you probably want to touch is the basement. However, this might be a good place to start because many of the ills of any home begin in this space. We all remember the sitcoms where families gathered in the basement room to watch television. The flooring was shag carpet and the walls were compressed paper with a facsimile of a walnut or oak woodgrain stamped on. However, even thirty years ago there was little understanding on how the basement related to the rest of the home in terms of ventilation and moisture control and many ills may hide beneath this smarmy facade. Use the Layered Approach If you are going to renovate the basement, do it one step at a time like you were taking off winter clothes. Take everything out of the basement area first, even the pictures off the wall and put them in a mini-storage. The reason for this so that no other areas of the home get cluttered while you are trying to work. One disheveled area in the home is enough. Ceiling: Once the place is cleaned out start with the ceiling. If this is a drop ceiling then you are in luck but make sure you wear a face mask and goggles because dust and other debris (mouse and rat feces) will collect on top of the panels. Because ceiling panels are fairly cheap, and difficult to clean, it is best to put them in the dumpster. Then take your sop vacuum cleaner and clean the railing. If your ceiling is drywalled you have a choice on whether you want it to come down especially if you know where all the ductwork is. But most of the time you won't have a clue where anything is up there so get your wrecking bar, face mask and goggles and get it down. It's better to do it now that when you've refinished the basement and then have a leaky pipe above. You can replace this with drop ceiling later and have easy access to any futures problems that may occur above the ceiling. Floors: If the carpet is glued to the cement the foam backing may stick to the floor. An ice scraper usually does the trick to get this off. If the floor is tile-on-cement then you might look a leaving it and using it for a subflooring. It's hard and flat just like the cement. But any wood subfloor should be taken out. Walls: There is an old adage in renovating, you never know until you break it open. If the basement is old there is a good chance that without the modern ventilation methods, there is mold behind the walls. Even if there isn't any when you take the walls out, the insulation they put up in the 1960's probably has outlived its usefulness and you want to replace it. Again, get your protective face, eye and hand coverings and take off the wallboard or drywall. Insulation: This should be taken out and bagged and the whole area vacuumed. Framing: This is good time to check the wall studs. If there is rot it will have to be replaced. Sometimes you can get away with just replacing the bottom stud, or footer, with a pressure-treated board. The nails can be cut along the joint with a reciprocating saw and the new pieces toed-in without much trouble. If the bottoms of the studs are showing rot it would be best to take it all out and salvage the good pieces. Load-Bearing Walls: If the footer of a load bearing wall shows rot, then you can get a couple of jack posts and place them right beside the wall to accept the weight. Then you can take the wall apart and rebuild it. These posts are adjustable and work better than a wood alternative. Mold: Even if mold does not seem to be evident spray the lower areas with a fungicide. If there is mold the studs will have to come out. These can be taken outside and cleaned and then they can go back in. The Rebuilding Process Moisture: If there is any moisture behind the walls this will have to be addressed before any re-construction work can be done. Cracks should be sealed by a professional foundation contractor. However, if the walls are damp then there is a drainage problem outside and the outside of the home will have to be excavated and sealed. Then a good drainage system should be put in place. Finally, the gutter system should be checked so that the water is going away from the home. HVAC: This is a good time to check the heating and ventilation as everything is exposed. If you don't already it in place install an air exchanger to rid the basement of moisture. Also, re-evaluate your heating requirements and install extra ducts while the walls are bare. Insulation: There is a discrepancy on whether or not to seal off the cement with a vapor barrier before putting in the insulation. If your basement wall is dry and the studs are in place there is no need. Besides sealing in the insulation might cause condensation which could lead to mold. However, if you spray on expanding foam between the studs this will automatically create a vapor seal and the question becomes moot. Drain: Make sure there is a drain on the basement floor near your water tank. If there is no water tank then near any water source. You will have to rent a jackhammer or cement saw and do some cement work but this is better than having your basement in a foot of water because of a broken pipe. The area below should be dug down to around 2 feet and then filled with gravel. Subfloor: You can get new 2' X 2' subfloor tiles which have a PVC bottom and a top made of ¾” plywood or oriented strand board. These tiles provide insulation and a raised, dry surface for hardwood flooring and carpet. Or, you could have Solomon build your project! We have been in business for over 34 years and have been trusted by our clients their families. Call 314-890-8000 or schedule online 24/7

In the realm of interior design, a profound shift is underway as homeowners increasingly turn to nature for inspiration, infusing their living spaces with the serenity and warmth found in the great outdoors. From the tranquil hues of earthy tones to the organic textures reminiscent of forest floors and sandy shores, the trend towards embracing nature's palette is unmistakable. This natural inclination towards earth-inspired design extends seamlessly to the realm of tile, where the latest offerings mirror the beauty of landscapes, both rugged and serene. Whether adorning indoor sanctuaries or outdoor retreats, tiles are now more than just functional elements; they are statements of style and harmony with the environment. Among the currents shaping tile trends today, the allure of combed and undulating surfaces captures attention, creating visual intrigue through interplay of light and shadow. Geometric forms, ranging from classic rectangles to bold hexagons and triangles, dominate the landscape of tile design, inviting creativity and expression. In this ever-evolving mosaic of style, neutrals reign supreme, with creamy whites, soothing blues, verdant greens, and earthy corals taking center stage, evoking a sense of tranquility and connection to nature. Moreover, practicality meets aesthetics as tiles embrace ease of maintenance and safety considerations, boasting easy-to-clean glazes, anti-slip surfaces, and antimicrobial properties. Materials such as glass, stone, porcelain, and ceramic reign supreme, each offering its unique blend of durability and beauty, while cement and terracotta continue to captivate with their timeless appeal. And as the design landscape evolves, glossy and iridescent finishes challenge the dominance of matte surfaces, infusing spaces with playful reflections and dynamic energy. In this fusion of form and function, homeowners find not only a reflection of their love for nature but also a canvas for personal expression, where every tile tells a story of harmony and beauty. Welcome to a world where nature's embrace meets timeless elegance, one tile at a time. Solomon Contracting, Inc. is a roofing & remodeling contractor serving the Metro St. Louis area for over 36 years. Please feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment to discuss your project.

We are thrilled to inform our customers of Marvin's Window & Doors latest innovation in window technology: CLiC™ Switchable Privacy Glass, developed through a partnership between Marvin and Cardinal Glass Industries. This revolutionary product is set to redefine the way you experience privacy and natural light in your home. CLiC™ glass utilizes a proprietary liquid crystal technology that enables seamless transitions between clear and privacy settings in less than a second. When in the clear state, the liquid crystals align to provide a crystal-clear view from edge to edge and any angle. Conversely, in the privacy state, the liquid crystals scatter to create a uniform diffused illumination across the glass surface, offering privacy while still allowing ample natural light to enter your space. Marvin Modern direct glaze windows equipped with CLiC™ glass can be effortlessly operated using a wall-mounted switch or integrated with home automation systems for added convenience and control. David Goulet, Marvin’s vice president of R&D and product development, highlights the significance of this innovation in modern home design, stating, "As many homeowners continue to gravitate toward modern home designs, large expanses of glass and uninterrupted sight lines are critical elements of that design philosophy. Leveraging the benefits of switchable privacy glass is an ideal way to stay true to modern design principles while enjoying the ease of opening up or closing off the view from a space at the push of a button." At Solomon Contracting, we share Marvin's commitment to modern design principles and are excited to offer CLiC™ Switchable Privacy Glass to our customers. Elevate your home to the next level and become the talk of the town with switchable views that seamlessly blend privacy and natural light. Schedule an appointment with us 24/7 online at solomoncontractingstl.com or by calling 314-890-8000. We look forward to creating a Solomon solution for your windows and doors with the latest in innovative technology.

At Solomon Contracting, Inc., we believe that masonry repair is more than just fixing bricks and mortar—it’s about preserving the strength, functionality, and beauty of your property for years to come. Our approach is rooted in precision, craftsmanship, and a deep understanding of the complexities involved in restoring and maintaining masonry structures. Expert Assessment and Tailored Solutions: The foundation of every successful masonry repair project starts with a thorough evaluation. Our experienced professionals carefully assess the extent of the damage, considering factors such as structural integrity, material compatibility, and environmental influences. This allows us to develop tailored solutions that address the root cause of the issue, not just the visible symptoms. High-Quality Materials and Techniques: We are committed to using only the highest-quality materials, meticulously matched to your existing structure for both durability and aesthetics. Whether it’s replicating historic mortar formulations or selecting bricks to seamlessly blend with your existing masonry, we prioritize authenticity and longevity. Our team employs advanced techniques alongside traditional craftsmanship to ensure repairs are robust and enduring. Comprehensive Masonry Services: Solomon Contracting, Inc. specializes in a wide range of masonry repair services, including but not limited to: Brick and Stone Repair: Replacing damaged bricks or stones while preserving the architectural integrity of your structure. Tuckpointing: Restoring mortar joints with precision to prevent water intrusion and improve overall stability. Structural Reinforcement: Addressing cracks, shifting, or settling to restore the strength and safety of your property. Chimney and Fireplace Repairs: Resolving issues like spalling bricks, deteriorated crowns, or leaks, ensuring both functionality and safety. Historic Masonry Restoration: Preserving the character and craftsmanship of older structures with specialized techniques and materials. Done Right the First Time: At Solomon Contracting, Inc., our philosophy is simple: do it right the first time. We understand that improper repairs can lead to larger, more costly issues down the line. That’s why we prioritize thorough planning, exceptional execution, and strict attention to detail. Our team works diligently to ensure every project meets or exceeds industry standards, providing you with peace of mind and lasting results. Minimized Disruption, Maximized Satisfaction: We recognize the importance of respecting your time and property. Our professionals work efficiently and with care, minimizing disruption to your daily life. We maintain open communication throughout the project, ensuring you are informed and confident in the process. When you choose Solomon Contracting, Inc., you’re not just investing in repairs—you’re investing in quality, expertise, and a partner committed to the long-term success of your property. Let us bring your masonry back to life with unparalleled craftsmanship and service you can trust.

Maintaining exterior wood trim paint is important because it protects the wood from the sun, water, mold, wood rot, decay and mildew. A quality paint job or a well maintained paint job can also enhance the look of your homes architectural features. Once you have Solomon Contracting finish a quality paint job on your home, one that has been prepared properly by washing, sanding and scraping, maintaining that paint job, can extend its life span. Fortunately, it isn’t difficult to take care of minor details so that your stunning new facade lasts and lasts. Here’s what to do. 1. Regular Cleaning Bugs, sap and grime can damage your exterior paint over time. Gently cleaning it once or twice a year with a pressure washer and mild soap on the appropriate setting is all you need, although you may want to rinse surfaces down after severe storms that leave your facade splattered with goo. 2. Keeping Up With Caulk Caulking prevents moisture from getting in between the wood and paint, causing cracks and bubbling. Inspect the areas around doors and windows at least once per year, adding caulk where necessary. As a bonus, this step also prevents energy loss and lowers utility bills. 3. Maintaining Exterior Landscaping Remember, sap from leaves and trees can damage your paint. Furthermore, branches can cause scratches that allow moisture to get in, spurring peeling. Keep trees and bushes trimmed back from your home’s exterior surface. Trimming your bushes lower than three feet also deters thieves, who seek cover when breaking in. 4. Tiny Touch Ups When purchasing exterior paint, always buy more than you need to allow extra for touch-ups. Addressing damage confined to small areas prevents spread, so inspect your home’s exterior once or twice a year and take corrective action when necessary. Help Your Exterior Paint Last Maintaining and extending the life span of exterior paint begins with a quality job. Fortunately, this task is one of the easiest to DIY if you have a one-story home, increasing your property value without spending much money or effort. Or, you could have Solomon Contracting help with these things by subscribing to our Preventive Maintenance Program which does most of the items above for you annually For more information about our program, click here. Follow the above steps for an exterior paint job that stands the test of time. Let us inspect your facade once per year and perform maintenance as described, and you’ll feel proud to pull into your driveway. You also save 5% on all projects purchased during your program subscription.