Put On The Finishing Touch
No siding job is complete without adding that special touch that makes your house a home. Adding shutters, trim, gutters, and other accessories can transform a nice siding job into a breathtaking project. Be sure to speak to your Curtis Lumber salesperson for assistance in selecting the right details for your next project.
Shutters and Blinds
The terms shutters and blinds are often used incorrectly. If the space in the center of the stile and rail frame is solid, it is a shutter. However, if this area is filled with slats, it is a blind. Blinds were originally used to ventilate a house when the weather outside was not conducive to leaving your windows open, while shutters were used to “shut up” the house in the owner’s absence by offering added protection against a break-in. Because shutters and blinds were originally meant to close over the window, they still look best if they appear to have this feature.
Keep in mind:
- When sizing a shutter or blind, ensure each is wide enough to cover half the window.
- Measure the width of the window from brick mold to brick mold and the height from brick mold to window sill. The width of the shutter should be 1/2 the width measurement and the full height measurement.
- Adding special details like arch tops, decorative hinges, and s-hooks will give your home a traditional look.
Exterior Trim
Exterior trim is a valuable accent to any home’s exterior. Adding or replacing exterior trim is a great way to draw attention to your home, accent the color of the rest of your house, and give your home a look that is unique to you and your personality. Exterior trim comes in a variety of materials, from primed wood to full PVC and can be either smooth or with a wood grain texture. Depending on the style of your home and how the trim will be used, there is a trim that is best suited for your application.
Window and Door headers are another great way to add that special flair to your home. These headers can include starbursts, keystones and more and add that special details that complete your home’s exterior. Don’t forget to talk about Exterior Trim options with your friendly Curtis Lumber salesperson. They will be happy to help you choose the trim that adds your personal touch to your new siding job!
Rain Gutters
Gutters prevent damaging water from running across windows and doors and down the sides of your house. They also channel water away from your foundation, reducing the chance of basement leaks. Gutters are usually made of aluminum, steel or vinyl. Old fashioned gutters might even be copper or wood. Wooden gutters require significantly more maintenance and are generally no longer used; still, they may be appropriate in certain historical or restoration applications.
When its time to install new or replace existing gutters, keep in mind these few tips:
- Gutters need to be cleaned twice a year, in the spring and fall
- Solid gutter shields are the most effective form of cover for gutters.
- Gutters MUST be installed with a slope. For most gutters, a 5/8″ drop for every 10′ is appropriate, but be sure to check the manufacturer’s recommendations.
- Place the mouth of the downspout over a hard sloped surface (like a driveway) to carry the rain away from the home.
Be sure to stop into your local Curtis Lumber for tips and tricks on this easy do-it-yourself project!