Why Wood Dry Rots & How It Can Ruin Your Home

Despite what a lot of people think, wood is one of the most durable materials that can be used to build your home. Wood can withstand years and years of damage if it’s taken care of properly!

However, if you don’t maintain the wood structures of your home, over time it can break down, and be susceptible to damage that could cause it to rapidly decay.

In particular, dry rot and other types of wood rot can be especially problematic if not dealt with right away.

What Is Dry Rot?

Dry rot is caused by water penetrating your home in places like your attic, ceiling structures, and roof. The rapid growth of mold and mildew can also cause wood rot. Dry rot breaks down the inner fibers of the wood, which causes it to become weak and brittle.

Leaks in your home that are left unchecked will eventually increase the moisture and humidity levels in your home. Dry rot can continue in these conditions, so make sure to get any leaks in your roof looked at as soon as you notice them!

Dry rot can weaken the overall structure of your home over time, putting your family at risk. Don’t take that chance!

How To Stop Dry Rot In Its Tracks

If you suspect you’re dealing with dry rot in your home, make sure to have a professional come out to give you a second opinion! A roofing contractor in Ann Arbor should perform a full evaluation and look for problem areas (around flashings, chimneys, plumbing vent pipes, etc.).

If any damage is found in the roof, repairs need to be made. Any missing roofing materials need to be replaced immediately, and your contractor will tell you if a total roof replacement is necessary.

At Wilderness Construction Inc., we know the safety of your family is your top priority, and ours, too! We want to help give you the peace of mind that comes with knowing your family and friends have a safe, dry, sturdy home to come back to each and every day.

For a quote, please call us today! Our friendly team of technicians is ready to speak with you!

How To Spot Termite Damage In Your Roof

As a homeowner, you probably get stressed out even hearing the phrase “termite damage”.

Did you know that your roof is just as vulnerable as the other parts of your home to termite damage?

Like any other wooden structure in your home, your roof can be vulnerable to termite damage in the ceiling of your home.

If you haven’t had your home assessed for termite damage or even just minor leaks, get it done soon! Places where leaks have occurred are like magnets for termites.

What Would Cause Termites In My Roof?

Drywood termites, one of the most common types of termite, live and feed inside wood. They build colonies inside rafters, roof beams, eaves and other wood structures in your home. They can even establish colonies underneath the wood shingles on your roof!

Subterranean termites are another type of termite that could damage your roof. These termites typically build their colonies in the soil, but they’ll also build anywhere they have access to wood, making your roof prime real estate.

Dampness in the roof also provides a better environment for them, making a leaky roof especially susceptible to this type of infestation. Drywall, wallpaper, rotting wood and shingles are all accessible to subterranean termites.

Warning Signs of Termite Damage

You should have your roof inspected at least once a year, if not more. If you do it yourself, be on the lookout for possible warning signs such as:

• Any bubbling or discoloration similar to what you’d see with water damage on your ceiling.
• Mounds of what look like tiny wood pellets in your attic/underneath your rafters
• Termite tunnels running up vertical structures outside your home, especially the chimney
• Wood that appears to have been eaten away or sounds hollow when tapped

If you think you have termite damage or want to take preventive measures to keep them away, call the trusted roofing contractor in Ann Arbor today for an inspection! Our friendly team of professionals is standing by to help you!

How To Prepare Your Home For a Roof Replacement

If you’re having work done on your roof, you know that your contractors are prepping in advance to do the best job possible, but did you know that there are things you can do as well?

Roofing companies in Ann Arbor do a lot of planning in advance before they go to a job site, and there are some small tasks you can do to make sure they can get the job done easily and quickly.

At Wilderness Construction Inc., we’ve been one of the most trusted roofing companies in Ann Arbor since 1999. Part of our great relationship with Washtenaw County is making sure that we have great relationships with our clients before, during and after a renovation.

We’ve come up with a list of things you can do to ensure that your roofing job goes smoothly:

• Inform your neighbors: Let your neighbors know that contractors will be coming to your home to work on your roof. Giving them advance notice will keep the relations between you friendly, as you’re letting them know about noise and overcrowding of street parking.
• Prepare your yard: When roofing companies in Ann Arbor come to your home, unloading the materials is the first step. Our technicians will set up the materials needed for your job on your lawn, so make sure to clear it of any debris, and give the crew enough room to work. Clearing away any toys or belongings will prevent them from being damaged accidentally.
• Secure any hanging belongings in your home. These include things like paintings, mirrors, chandeliers, and anything else that could fall and be damaged as a result of the vibrations likely to occur when your roof is being worked on.

Doing these things before your contractors arrive will make the process of getting a new roof go smoother. 

For more information about how a typical roof replacement goes, give us a call! We can answer your questions and talk about a roof replacement for your specific home when we do our free, no-obligation inspection.

Contact us today!

What Are Architectural Shingles?

Are you looking to buy new shingles for your home?

Are you considering a bold choice, or something that makes a statement?

Architectural shingles provide a classic look and give your home a polished finish that will make it stand out in your neighborhood.

What’s The Difference Between Regular and Architectural Shingles?

Also known as laminated or dimensional shingles, architectural roofing shingles are among the highest quality roofing products made. They are made with a heavy fiberglass base, and ceramic-coated minerals that are tightly embedded in water-resistant asphalt, making them a sturdy choice for your roof.

You can also get architectural shingles made to look like other roofing materials, such as synthetic slate architectural shingles. Another unique architectural shingle design imitates the look of slate without the weight issues that normally accompany those materials. These architectural roofing shingles do not require any additional roof support as slate would.

With many colors and styles to choose from, architectural shingles can give your home a unique look.

Which Roofing Companies in Ann Arbor Offer Architectural Shingles?

If you want to change up the look of your home, you need to hire a roofing company that you can trust! Wilderness Construction Inc. has been one of the most trusted roofing companies in Ann Arbor since 1999 and wants to help you with your next renovation!

Give us a call today for a free no-obligation inspection and see how we can help you!

Natural Light In The Office Can Make Employees More Productive

Do your employees seem more sluggish as the day goes on?

Are you noticing a crowd near the coffee maker in the afternoon?

Your workplace may benefit from the installation of sliding glass doors in Ann Arbor!

Studies have shown that exposure to natural light during the day can increase productivity and make people feel more energized! Natural light has also been linked to a decrease in overall anxiety and depression in individuals.

If your employees are coming into the office in the mornings feeling tired or looking like they could use a few more hours of sleep, it could be a deficiency of natural light that’s keeping them from sleeping at night.

Consider Installing A Sliding Glass Door in Your Office!

According to a sleep study done by neurologists at Northwestern Memorial Hospital, “workers are a group at risk because they are typically indoors often without access to natural or even artificial bright light for the entire day.”

If your office has access to a patio, or an outdoor space on the first level, talk to your building manager about a sliding glass door! The benefits for your employees will not only help them, but can help the company overall in the long run.

The study continues, “Compared to those with little light exposure, workers with more exposure [to natural light] slept longer and better at night, got more exercise, and had a better quality of life.”

Better sleep for employees means more productivity and energy during the day, and happy workers!

If you’d like to discuss your options for sliding glass doors in Ann Arbor, contact Wilderness Construction Inc. today! Our knowledgeable technicians can inform you about the choices available to you, and help you pick out the perfect style door that fits your budget. Contact us today by visiting our website or giving us a call!

New Roof Installation in Ann Arbor

The Pittsfield Township building was missing shingles due to recent storms in the area that produced high winds and lots of rain.

Our experienced salesman noticed the problem, and went inside to talk to the Director of Building Services to see if they could help secure the roof and make the building safer for their employees.



After removing a layer of rotted shingles and plywood, the Wilderness roofing crew installed 30-year Tamko shingles.

Are You Looking For A Roofing Contractor in Ann Arbor?

Does your business need a new roof?

Are you concerned about how it can hold up during a bad storm?

Our team of reliable and knowledgeable sales staff has the training and the know-how to get you the best roofing job for the best price.

Michigan weather can be unpredictable so don’t delay! Call Wilderness Construction Inc. to find out why we’re the most reliable roofing contractor in Ann Arbor!

How Natural Light In Your Home Could Benefit Your Health

Are you considering adding new windows or sliding glass doors to your home in Ann Arbor?

Did you know that there are health benefits associated with the natural light that sliding glass doors in Ann Arbor could bring to your home and living space?

Aside from the added functionality, studies show that environments with more daylight increase productivity, increase comfort, and provide the mental and visual stimulation necessary to regulate circadian rhythms!

How Can Sliding Glass Doors in Ann Arbor Benefit My Family?

According to the director of the Sleep Disorders Center at Northwestern Memorial Hospital, “there is increasing evidence that exposure to light, during the day – particularly in the morning – is beneficial to your health via its effects on mood, alertness and metabolism.”

A sliding glass door in your home can help with your health by:

• Decreasing the likelihood of depression and anxiety
• Making you more productive at work
• Helping you get a better sleep at night by regulating your circadian rhythm
• Energizing you during the day and making you tired by bedtime – helping your sleep schedules get back to normal

If you get up for work when the sun is already out, try having a cup of coffee or reading the paper near a window! If you don’t have much natural light in your home, consider getting a sliding glass door in Ann Arbor installed!

This time spent in the natural light in the morning could be the boost to your morning routine that you’re looking for!

Call Wilderness Construction Inc. For Sliding Glass Doors Today!

At Wilderness, we pride ourselves on being the preferred contractor for sliding glass doors, entry doors, and front doors in Ann Arbor. If you need a quote or want more information, give us a call today!

How Algae Can Harm Your Roof

Have you had your roof inspected yet this summer?

Have you noticed peeling or cracking shingles on your roof?

Are you experiencing leaks in your home coming from the roof?

If you answered ‘yes’ to any of these questions, it’s time for you to get your roof inspected! In the summer months, it’s important to make sure your roof is in the best shape it can be, so it can stand up to storms, and damage.

Aside from looking ugly on your roof, algae and other growth on your roof can be damaging not only to your roof, but to your health.

• Algae – This plant likes dampness and shade, which makes wood and asphalt shingles particularly vulnerable. Algae can retain water, which will deteriorate your shingles over time. In addition, the spores have proven to be harmful when breathed in over a long period of time.
• Moss – Moss also likes moisture, and grows on a lot of wood roofs, causing the roof to rot. This can go unnoticed to the untrained professional, and can be very damaging to the overall structure of your home.
• Mold – You already know that mold (especially black mold) is toxic and can cause many respiratory problems and illnesses if it is found in your home. Mold spreads quickly, and can weaken the entire structure of your home.
• Mildew – Mildew is a type of algae that shows up as a powdery consistency, and likes warm, humid environments. If your roof has poor drainage, or trees hang over your roof, there’s a chance you have a fast-spreading mildew growing on your shingles.

Proper care and maintenance is important to keep the different types of algae away from your roof! If you need an inspection, trust Wilderness Construction to be your roofing contractor in Ann Arbor and make sure that your home is safe for your family!

Wilderness Construction Inc. is The Premier Roofing Contractor in Ann Arbor!

Call us today to set up an inspection time and we’ll send out one of our friendly and experienced roofing technicians.

What Does Your Entry Door Say About You?

Is your front door stylish, polished, and clean?

Or is it scuffed up, or is the screen torn?

Your entry door can say a lot about you and your home, especially to visiting friends, family, and potential homebuyers.

Imagine if you were visiting someone for the first time, and their front door was dirty, chipped, peeling, and hanging off the hinges. You probably wouldn’t want to set foot in the house, would you?

To make your guests feel comfortable and make sure that you get the full asking price if you’re trying to sell your home, think about replacing your entry doors in Ann Arbor this summer!

If you don’t have the money to replace your door completely, don’t worry! Refinishing or repainting can do the trick in a pinch too!

• If you’re concerned about security, try a steel entry door. These doors are relatively cheap, and can be paneled to make them look more polished. These types of doors can also be stained to make them look more inviting.
• Wood doors are the most popular type and their natural finish will keep them looking beautiful and classic for years to come.
• Fiberglass entry doors are also an option for homeowners who want something durable, low-maintenance, and energy efficient. 

Remember, your entryway and entry door are the first things people see when they come to your home! An exterior door and interior door can make a lot of difference to the overall finish of your home.

If you need help picking out the right entry door in Ann Arbor for your home, contact Wilderness Construction today! We offer many quality brands and have the licensed contractors to install.

5 Reasons to Replace Your Windows This Summer!

Summer is the perfect time to do home improvements!

The weather is nice, so you don’t have to worry about letting your heat literally go out the window, like it might in winter months during a window replacement.

Instead of waiting until your windows are falling apart, get started on the house windows you’ve been waiting for today! The summer may be the absolute BEST time to get replacement house windows in Ann Arbor because:

- There are fewer safety concerns in summer
- New windows will increase energy efficiency
- You can take advantage of tax rebates and incentives
- New windows will add value to your home
- New windows will help sustain a comfortable temperature throughout your home

Are you wondering how new house windows can benefit your home?

Contact Wilderness Construction today to have an experienced contractor evaluate your home’s needs.

Need More Information?

At Wilderness, we understand your hesitation about making a large purchase for your home. We believe in making sure you’re getting the best value for your money. If you’d like to talk to one of our knowledgeable staff members about your house windows in Ann Arbor, we’d be happy to talk to you!

Visit our website or give us a call at (734) 429-0616 today to get started!

4 Window Cleaning Hacks!

Do streaky windows have you frustrated?

Are your blinds dust magnets?

Can’t seem to get your windowsills clean?

If you answered ‘yes’ to any of those questions, you’ve come to the right place when it comes to finding answers on house windows in Ann Arbor.

We’ve got a few window cleaning tricks that will help get your cleaning game to the next level!

- Streaks after washing: Try using a squeegee and don’t wash your windows in direct the sunlight.
- Mildew in frame: Wash with a bleach-detergent solution!
- Dirty windowsills: Apply a coat of floor wax to protect from the outdoor elements.
- Filthy screens: Wash your screens outside with a soft-bristled brush with hot water and dishwashing soap.

If all these tricks fail at getting your windows looking new again, consider installing replacement windows.

At Wilderness Construction, we offer a variety of window replacement services and install quality brands at great prices.

Looking For More Information About House Windows In Ann Arbor?

For more tips about home improvement and house windows in Ann Arbor, visit our website! Wilderness Construction installs ma
ny variety window products and has experts standing by to take your call. Visit our website and contact us today!

How to Match Shingles and Siding Perfectly

Are you a homeowner in Ann Arbor looking to get a roof replacement or new shingles on your home?

Are you struggling to decide on the right color shingles for your home?

Are you frustrated with trying to match the shingle color to your siding, bricks or paint color?

You’re not alone! Trying to choose from dozens of samples can be overwhelming, especially if you’re not sure which way to go – light or dark shingles? A bright color, or something more understated?

At Wilderness Construction Inc., we’re the experts when it comes to roof replacement in Ann Arbor. We want to help you make the best choice in new shingles for your home.

At Wilderness, we offer quality brand names for great prices, and we want to make sure your home is transformed into the home of your dreams when you purchase new shingles or get a total roof replacement in Ann Arbor.

Here are our tips for perfectly matching the color of your new shingles to your siding, paint, and overall design of your home:

• Tone down your exterior with a simple shingle color. If your home already has a bold paint color, or other architectural elements that stand out, a simple color is best.

• View your shingles in all types of light. Before you purchase them, consider that your shingles will look different on a bright, sunny day than they will on a gloomy one.

• Consider resale value. Remember: a bright color might look great in your opinion, but might not entice potential homebuyers. 

• Complementary colors work best for shingles. Exactly matching your shingles to the color of your siding, brick, or exterior paint can make your home look monotone. Instead, pick shingles that complement the color of your home.

Looking For More About Roof Replacement in Ann Arbor?

Visit our website today to find out more about the roof replacement in Ann Arbor services that we offer, and more about how to pick out the right shingles for your home. Call us today for your free quote and estimate!

How To Pick Out The Right Color Shingles For Your Home

Are you trying to spruce up your home this spring?

Are you completing a roofing project and want to make your home stand out in the neighborhood?

Are you considering new shingles as part of a total roof replacement project?

To finish off your new roof, shingles are like the icing on a cake – they can set your home apart from the others in your neighborhood, and give your home a polished, even decorative look.

At Wilderness Construction Inc., we’ve been the experts on roof replacement in Ann Arbor for over twenty years. We want to help you make an informed decision before you invest in a new roof and new shingles.

Should I Pick Dark or Light Colors For My Roof?

This question normally comes up when homeowners get concerned about the kind of heat that their roof is retaining. A study done by the United States Department of Agriculture found that while a roof with black shingles left the plywood underneath a full 10 degrees warmer than the plywood under a roof with white shingles, the study found less difference between roofs with shades of grays and browns.

If you’re concerned about heat retention, staying away from black is probably a good idea. However, remember that you’re going to be living with the color of your roof for a long time, and should ultimately pick a color that is pleasing to your eyes.

Should I Match My Shingles To My Siding?

Not necessarily. Remember: you can always change the paint color and the siding color on your home relatively easily, but it’s harder to change the brick color. If you want to match the color of your shingles to an element on the exterior of your home, try to match the shingles to the brick color.

Looking For More?

For more information about roof replacement in Ann Arbor and how to pick out the right color shingles for your home, visit our website, and view our other blog posts! We want to help you make the best decision for your family and home. Call Wilderness Construction today for your free quote and estimate!

How Can You Be Sure You’re Getting High Quality Replacement Windows?

Are you planning on getting replacement windows in Ann Arbor this year as part of spring-cleaning?

Do you know what to look for when choosing the right replacement windows for your home?

At Wilderness Construction, we know that spending money on replacement windows can be overwhelming, and we want to help you get the best quality products for your money!

First, it’s important that you know the difference between replacement windows and new construction windows.

• Replacement windows can be custom-made or bought ready-made to fit into existing window trim.
• New construction windows require a more involved installation process – getting rid of the entire old window and all the original trim. This means you’re likely to spend more money on materials.

Second, try not to get overwhelmed by all the different types of windows available to you! To make sure you get the best quality replacement windows available, know the difference between aluminum windows, wood windows, fiberglass windows, and vinyl windows.

Picking the right style and type of window for your home will ensure that you don’t feel like you’ve wasted your money by the time construction is completed.

Finally, choose the right contractor! This is easily the most important decision that you can make when picking out replacement windows in Ann Arbor. You should select a contractor that puts you and your home first, and provides excellent customer service.

When you choose Wilderness Construction, you get the peace of mind that comes with knowing you are going to get quality service, quality products, and a great price. Visit our website today to find out more about our services!

The Best Solution For Drafty Windows

Are you suffering through those long Michigan winters?

Does your home feel cool and drafty during the winter? 

Are you constantly searching for blankets and slippers when you’re lounging in your living room?

If you answered ‘yes’ to any of those questions, you might be in the market for replacement windows in Ann Arbor!

At Wilderness Construction, we offer a variety of window replacement services and install quality brands at great prices.

We also want to make sure that you save your money wherever you can, and fix those drafty windows on a budget.

• Get replacement windows. This is the most expensive solution, but if your windows have never been replaced and are starting to deteriorate, this could save you money on your heating bills in the long run.
• Get a “draft snake”! You’ve probably seen these around doors in older homes. These tubes of fabric can be filled with dry rice, and put on windowsills to keep cold air from seeping into a home.
• Apply weather stripping. For an easy fix, you can get plastic weather stripping to put along the sides of the sashes on your windows. Windows can still open and shut with this type of seal in place, but it will keep the cold air outside your home, instead of creeping inside.
• Re-caulk your windows. Sometimes window sashes on older windows and in older homes shrink with age, causing drafts. Rope caulk can be applied to fill in the gap, and comes out easily when spring arrives.

If your windows are old and simply past their useful lives, it might be time to call the pros at Wilderness Construction and consider a total window replacement. These windows will last longer than some of the simple fixes listed above.

Looking For More Information About Replacement Windows In Ann Arbor?

For more tips about home improvement and replacement windows in Ann Arbor, visit our website! Wilderness Construction installs many variety window products and has experts standing by to take your call. Visit our website and contact us today!

How Often Should You Replace Your Windows?

Are you a new homeowner? Are you considering a renovation project on your home?

When looking at all the projects to be done when you move into a home (especially an old home), it can be hard to decide what to tackle first.

If you’re living in or about to move into an older home, one of the things you should consider is getting your windows replaced!

A total window replacement in Ann Arbor is one of the best ways you can make your home more energy-efficient and look nicer. However, windows are costly. If you’re not sure how often to replace your windows, we can help!

At Wilderness Construction, we always put the customer first, and want to make sure you’re taken care of. Part of putting you first means making sure you have the right information at your fingertips to make a decision.

Windows Don’t Last Forever!

Even if you buy the best brand name windows available, they still aren’t going to last forever. However, brand new windows do have a pretty long life. Typically, windows last 15-20 years. Once you hit the 15-year mark, it’s a good idea to start doing some research and consider getting your windows replaced.

Window Replacement Can Add Value to Your Home

Since windows are much more advanced today than they were just a few years ago, brand new windows offer a lot more insulation than older windows. In doing so, you’re adding a lot of value to your home. Since energy efficient windows are expensive, you’re making an investment in the resale value of your home.

Still Unsure?

You know that your windows need to be replaced eventually and that doing so can add value to your home, but if you’re still not sure that your money will be spent wisely, we want to help!

Wilderness Construction is your premier source for window replacement in Ann Arbor, and we want to help you make sure you’re getting great value for your money. Call us today or visit our website to get a quote and speak to one of our knowledgeable professionals!

How to Pick Out The Best Windows For Your Home

Are you a homeowner thinking about your next renovation project?

Is your next project finally going to be getting new windows for your home?

Are you unsure about which type of window you should be considering, or what types are even available?

You’re not alone! Window replacement can be overwhelming, especially because of how many options are available in today’s market.

At Wilderness Construction, we believe that the right windows can not only make your home look better, but can help you minimize the costs of heating and cooling in your home!

If you’re considering window replacement in Ann Arbor, there are a few things you should think about when you’re shopping.

1. Do a home energy audit! An energy efficiency checkup for your home can tell you where you’re losing the most energy when it comes to heating and cooling. This audit can tell you if you’re really in the market for a total window replacement.
2. Do your windows pose safety problems? If your windows don’t open or shut completely, it’s probably a good idea to get them replaced. Especially consider a window replacement if those windows are on an upper floor, where you might need to use them as an emergency escape route.
3. If you’re looking for energy efficiency, do research on the window’s glass! All windows in the Energy Star program have stickers on them that display ratings by the National Fenestration Rating Council. Check these ratings to ensure that you’re investing in energy-efficient windows for your home.

Need More Information?

At Wilderness, we understand your hesitation about making a large purchase for your home. We believe in making sure you’re getting the best value for your money. If you’d like to talk to one of our knowledgeable staff members about your window replacement in Ann Arbor, we’d be happy to talk to you!

Visit our website or give us a call at (734) 429-0616 today to get started!