There are a lot of ways to add interest to your home and help it stand out from all the other houses on the block. Adding stonework, for example, to the front of the house can give your house that special touch that makes it unique to your and your style. However, stonework has, in itself, a ton of choices: the shape of the stones, color, and location, just to name a few.

So where to get started? This is when the home style and design experts at Carolan Contractors come in. We can help you plan out a terrific upgrade to your house that is all your own.

How? Well, in this article, we’re going to take some inspiration from a gorgeous project we did on a rustic-style Verona Craftsman House to discuss some ways to add character, elegance, and charm to your home.

Ways To Add Character and Charm To Your Home

To get your own creative juices flowing, here are some of the methods Carolan Contractors used to improve this Verona Craftsman house, which included giving the facade a major upgrade:

• Metal roofing accent: a new mansard roof over the garage, clad in bronze-colored metal roofing
• Custom masonry
• A new bracketed portico
• Gable ornaments
• Two-toned siding (clay and canyon), mixing clapboard vinyl siding and cedar shake impressions vinyl siding
• Mixing siding profiles/types
• New fiberglass front door by ProVia

Adding A Portico To Your New Jersey Home

Carolan Contractors are master craftsman, and adding a portico to your house in will provide quite a few benefits, such as adding dimension to the front of your house, so it’s not flat and/or plain. In addition, not only is a portico stylish, but it’s functional! Porticos provide shelter from the rain or snow when you’re getting your keys out.

And as you can see in the picture featured here, cladding the portico in metal roofing gives a farmhouse accent while still looking appropriate for your New Jersey neighborhood. Just that little bit of style goes a long way!

Why Metal Roofing in New Jersey Is A Great Choice

While we do roofs in all kinds of styles and materials, we love when a client is looking for metal roofing. This is because metal roofing is long lasting, available in a wide variety of colors to match your home style, and very popular in farmhouse decor. In addition, if you’re a fan of home design shows, you’ll see it used all the time–just watch an episode or two of Fixer Upper.

Learn more about our roofing services here.

What To Consider When Renovating Or Installing New Doors

A door is not just functional, but is a statement for someone entering your home. (Read more about our entryway services here.) Fiberglass is nice because it’s maintenance free, which is extra important in NJ, since we have harsh winters and harsh summers. In addition, Fiberglass doors are more energy efficient than wood.

It’s also important to consider which manufacturers and suppliers your contractor is working with. One thing we like is that there are hundreds of door options from ProVia, one of our preferred door partners, including different wood grains, different colors and stains, decorative art glass in a variety of styles, hardware upgrades, door shapes/profiles, and much more. This variety allows us to work with our clients to get that exact, specific look for their home.

View all of our suppliers here.

Materials Needed To Add Character and Charm To Your Home

Great ideas is only part of the solution, obviously. You still need to make it happen! So what products went into creating this new dream home?

• Cedar Impressions
• Vinyl siding
• ProVia Doors
• Entry Doors
• Stonework/Custom Stonework/Masonry/Stone Veneer
• Metal roofing
• Gable ornaments for an added touch of character

Add Curb Appeal and Stand Out From the Other Houses In Your Neighborhood

We all know how important curb appeal is when determing the value and sellability of your home. Having a house that stands out from the pack is not only aesthetically pleasing to you as a homeowner, it will also help attract more potentials buyers and, hopefully, more bids if and when you’re ready to sell.

A beautiful home is also a comfortable and nice place to live, and we here at Carolan Contractors want to make that a reality for all of our clients. Give us a call today at (973) 857-1555 for a free quote or contact us here so we can discuss your project.

The post How To Add Character And Charm To Your Home appeared first on Carolan Contractors.

However, roofs, like any part of a house, require attention and care, and there may come a time when getting a new roof becomes a necessity. Whether you’re dealing with age-related deterioration, storm damage, or simply seeking an upgrade to enhance your home’s curb appeal, embarking on a roof replacement project is a significant undertaking that requires careful consideration.

What should I look for in shingles for my roof?

When choosing shingles for your roof in New Jersey, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key aspects to look for:

• Durability: Look for shingles that are durable and able to withstand the climate and weather conditions of New Jersey. But also consider factors such as wind resistance, impact resistance, and resistance to fading or discoloration.
• Longevity: Consider the expected lifespan of the shingles. Some shingles may last 20 years, while others can have a lifespan of 30 years or more. Longer-lasting shingles may require less frequent replacement and maintenance, which can save you money in the long run.
• Material: Shingles are available in various materials such as asphalt, wood, metal, and synthetic materials. Each material has its own advantages and considerations, including cost, appearance, weight, and maintenance requirements. A qualified roofing professional in New Jersey such as Carolan Contractors can help you choose a material that suits your preferences, budget, and the architectural style of your home.
• Style and Aesthetics: Consider the overall look and style you want to achieve for your roof. Shingles come in different shapes, sizes, textures, and colors. Choose a style that complements the architectural design of your home and matches your personal taste. As we’ll discuss more below, oyster gray and pewter gray are popular choices.
• Energy Efficiency: If energy efficiency is a priority for you, consider shingles that are designed to reflect sunlight and reduce heat absorption. This can help lower cooling costs in warmer climates.
• Warranty: Look for shingles that come with a solid manufacturer’s warranty. A good warranty can provide you with peace of mind and protect your investment in case of defects or premature failure.

What is the difference between oyster gray and pewter gray shingles for a roof?

It’s always a good idea to consult with a qualified New Jersey roofing professional such as Carolan Contractors who can provide guidance based on your specific needs and local conditions. We can assess your roof’s structure and help you select the most suitable shingles for your home.

That being said, both oyster gray and pewter gray are popular choices for roof shingles, and while they may appear similar, there are subtle differences between the two colors. Here’s a breakdown of their characteristics:

Oyster Gray Shingles

Oyster gray shingles typically have a lighter and softer appearance compared to pewter gray. They tend to have a base color that is a light gray or beige with hints of brown or tan mixed in. Oyster gray shingles often create a more delicate and understated look on a roof. They can complement a variety of exterior color schemes and architectural styles, especially those with lighter or neutral tones.

Pewter Gray Shingles

These have a slightly darker and cooler tone compared to oyster gray. They usually feature a base color that is a medium to dark gray with subtle hints of blue or green. Pewter gray shingles can create a bolder and more dramatic appearance on a roof. They work well with a range of exterior colors, particularly those with cooler tones or contrasting elements.

Read more about picking a roof color here.

Looking for help with a new roof in New Jersey? Contact Carolan Contractors

Ultimately, the choice between oyster gray and pewter gray shingles depends on personal preference and the overall aesthetic you wish to achieve for your New Jersey home. We recommend that you consult with a roofing professional like Carolan Contractors to see how each color would look on your specific roof and in relation to your home’s exterior.

Call Carolan Contractors at (973) 857-1555 or get a free quote today!

The post The Aesthetics of a New Roof: Oyster Gray and Pewter Gray Shingles appeared first on Carolan Contractors.

• White: If your house is white, consider a contrasting dark roof color. Some of our favorites are GAF ‘Charcoal’ and Owens Corning ‘Estate Gray’. If you’re not a gray person, consider a light brown that mimics the look of a cedar roof; some of our favorites are GAF ‘Shakewood’ and Owens Corning ‘Amber.’
• Dark: If your house is a darker color, such as gray or a brown, we recommend picking a dark roof color. For a roof that can stand up to a dark colored home, you will want want to look at GAF ‘Charcoal’ or Owens Corning ‘Onyx Black.’
• Blue: If your house is blue, you will want to pick a similarly cool-toned roof that will complement your home. For a cool gray, we like GAF ‘Oyster Gray’ and ‘Pewter Gray,’ as well as Owens Corning ‘Quarry Gray’ and ‘Slatestone Gray.’
• Neutral/Beige: If your house is a neutral to beige color, consider a dark roof color for some contrast. GAF ‘Charcoal’ and Owens Corning ‘Onyx Black’ are dark colors that complement beige well. We would also suggest avoiding a brown hue, which can look drab on a beige home.

The post How To Select a Roof Color appeared first on Carolan Contractors.