Category Archives: Blog

Searching for the best type of residential roofing for Minnesota? A to Z Construction has been providing exceptional roofing services since 2004, catering to the diverse needs of homeowners. Our offerings include roofing work, repairs, installations, replacements, and storm damage services. With a strong commitment to customer satisfaction, expertise, and reliable solutions, we have become one of MN’s most reputable roofing companies.

We firmly believe that a home’s integrity is directly tied to the quality of its roof. Utilizing a complete underlayment, flashing, and ventilation system ensures that your home remains protected, dry, and energy-efficient. Our experienced team is ready to assist you with new roofing systems, replacements, or repairs, using only the best materials available.

But what is the best type of residential roofing for Minnesota? Keep reading, and we’ll explore the different options available to help you make an informed decision.

Best Type of Residential Roofing for Minnesota

It’s no secret that Minnesota is known for harsh weather conditions, with temperatures ranging from hot summers and snowy winters. That said, choosing the right roofing material is essential for keeping your home safe and comfortable. The most popular types of residential roofing in Minnesota include:

Asphalt Shingles

One of, if not the most popular and common roofing materials, asphalt shingles are affordable and durable. These shingles come in many colors and styles to fit any home’s aesthetic and are made from a fiberglass or organic mat covered with asphalt. Asphalt shingles also offer excellent impact resistance, which makes them an ideal choice for areas prone to hailstorms.

However, one downfall of asphalt shingle roofs is that they don’t last as long as some other materials, typically lasting anywhere from 15-30 years. Other options may be better for homeowners who want a roof that will last longer.

Metal Roofing

Metal roofs are quickly becoming more popular for residential homes in Minnesota due to their longevity and resilience. They are made from aluminum or steel and can resist impacts from snow, rain, and extreme cold, making them one of the best roofing materials for harsh climates. These roofs also come in a variety of styles and colors, meaning you can find a metal roof that fits your home’s aesthetic.

While metal roofs are a costly investment, there is a good chance you won’t ever need to replace them. Metal roofs can last up to 50 years, making them a great long-term investment.

Wood Shakes

Wood shakes are a great option for homeowners who like a natural look. Made from real wood, these roofing materials give off a rustic charm that can’t be found in other types of roofing. Wood shake roofs perform great during winter, as they are naturally resistant to snow and ice buildup.

In addition, wooden roofs have natural insulation properties that help to keep your home cool during the summer months and warm in the winter. While these types of roofs cost more than asphalt shingles, they have a longer lifespan. The downfall of wood shake roofing is that they require continuous maintenance, such as staining and sealing, making them a bit more high-maintenance than other types of roofing materials.

Tiles

Clay, slate, and concrete tiles are all excellent roofing materials that Minnesota homeowners can use in their homes. They are durable, long-lasting, and highly resistant to the harsh winters in Minnesota. In addition, they are less expensive than metal or wood roofing but a slightly more expensive option than asphalt shingles. With tile roofing, you can expect a strong resistance against hail storms, extreme winds, snow, rain storms, and fire. Tiles also come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and colors, so you can choose the look that best fits your home. The only downside is that tiles are heavy and may require reinforcement to properly support them.

Choosing Residential Roofing for Minnesota Homeowners

Knowing what type of roofing material to choose when you are a homeowner in Minnesota can be confusing. Before making any decisions, it’s important to consider your budget, how long you plan to stay in your home, and how often you want to maintain the roof.

By contacting a reputable roofing contractor in Minnesota like A to Z Construction, homeowners will get the advice and help they need to choose the best roofing material to meet their needs. A to Z Construction is experienced in all types of residential roofing and can provide a free quote for installation or repair. Contact us today and let our team of experts help you find the perfect roof for your home.

No matter which type of residential roofing you choose, the team at A to Z Construction will make sure it’s installed correctly and that any repairs are handled quickly and professionally. We look forward to helping you create a safe and beautiful home!

How to Get Started With Residential Roofing in Minnesota

No matter if you need a full roof installation, roof repair, or storm damage repair, the friendly team at A to Z Construction is here to help. To get started, follow these steps:

Contact Us

Homeowners can call/text, or fill out the free inspection form on our website to schedule an estimate. Our team will provide honest feedback about your roofing needs and help you select the best option for your home.

Review Estimate

After inspecting your roof and learning about your budget and preferences, we will provide an estimate for the project. We strive to be transparent with costs and keep you informed every step of the way. After signing the contract, we will get to work on your roof!

Install or Repair Roof

Our experienced team of roofers is licensed and insured to provide quality service at an affordable price. We know that a well-maintained roof is an important part of any home, so we take extra care to ensure the job is done correctly.

When the job is complete, we’ll clean up any debris and make sure you are satisfied with how everything looks. We stand behind our work and offer a satisfaction guarantee for all of our residential roofing services.

Contact A to Z Construction for Minnesota Residential Roofing

No matter what type of residential roofing project you need to be done, A to Z Construction has got you covered. Our team is dedicated to providing quality service at an affordable price and strives to make your roofing project as stress-free as possible. Contact A to Z Construction today to learn more about the best residential roofing for Minnesota. 

The future of bathrooms is bright, and with the introduction of an open concept, bathrooms should not only be more flexible but also easily accessible and practical. We have come a long way from the traditional medieval water closet, and a curbless shower is one of the many new additions to arguably the most crucial living space in a home. 

Whether you are looking for the opportunity to remodel your bathroom or are simply looking for a practical solution to your space problems, consider installing a curbless shower. Curbless showers offer homeowners the opportunity to incorporate modern living in their bathrooms and are an inexpensive way of improving the value of your property.

While it might sound like a perfect addition to your bathroom, there is no “one size fits all” approach for curbless showers. In some rare cases, they might do more harm than good, especially to the floor, walls, and paneling of the rest of the building (due to water damage).

If you are still unsure whether a curbless shower is a good investment, read on for comprehensive insight on the good, the bad, and the downright ugly for everything curbless showers. 

What is a Curbless Shower? 

As the name suggests, a curbless shower is a walk-in shower that lacks a divider between the shower region and the rest of the bathroom. For many walk-in showers, there is usually an area of elevation (the curb) that functions as the divider.

Curbless showers typically have an open design, but some homeowners prefer a more personal approach and install enclosures of different materials to serve as the bathroom wall. 

The Advantages and Disadvantages of a Curbless Shower

From our experience, curbless bathrooms usually have a polarizing effect on different homeowners. However, this is primarily credited to homeowners’ diverse needs and preferences. Similar to the difference in preferences when choosing a type of roofing material, curbless showers are only for some. 

Below are some of the advantages and disadvantages of curbless showers as described by homeowners that have had them for an extended period:

Advantages of Curbless Showers

Curbless showers have won the hearts of homeowners worldwide for obvious reasons. You might have seen them in an HGTV commercial, or they might have taken your breath away when you walked into a bathroom in a luxury hotel. Regardless of where you might have come across them, here are a few advantages of curbless showers:

Practicality and Accessibility

If your household consists of individuals on the extreme ends of the age spectrum, you will love curbless showers. Because of the absence of a physical barrier in the bathroom, the young and old can easily access the walk-in shower area without assistance (or fear of tripping).

A curbless shower allows those using wheelchairs or other walking aids to enter the bathroom quickly. 

The practicality of a curbless shower is also evident in the clever use of space. If you have reduced square footage in your bathroom and are still considering light fixtures, art pieces, or decorative furniture, then a curbless shower might be the answer. 

Easy to Clean Surfaces

You might have chosen to invest in quality ceramic tiles for your bathroom, and as much as they are exquisite, they require occasional maintenance to stay in tip-top shape.

However, with a curbless shower, there is reduced opportunity for accumulation of dirt and grime from the bathroom over time since the wastewater and its contents are directed towards a center or linear drain.

If you’ve ever had to sweep dust from corners, you might have an idea of how cumbersome cleaning curbs can be. To avoid this complication, you should consider installing a curbless shower in your bathroom. 

Aesthetic Appeal

You can do a lot to improve the overall aesthetic appeal of your home, but only a few of it can fall within a budget as comfortably as installing a curbless shower. This is especially true for new installations, as the floor can be angled to meet the specifications of a curbless shower with ease and without extensive need for restructuring. 

With the help of a professional contractor, you can have your bathroom looking more modern by simply installing a curbless shower. If you pair the bathroom with an enclosure, you can make the most of both options and walk into a modern and visually pleasing bathroom. 

Disadvantages of a Curbless Shower

There are several drawbacks to removing the divider from your bathroom. This is more pronounced in homes that have smaller bathrooms. Below are some of the disadvantages of a curbless shower. 

Cost of Installation

If your home is under insurance, you might have reservations about doing a “major” renovation, such as installing a curbless shower. The installation process might attract a high cost for services and materials, especially if you have an old bathroom.

However, a simple solution is to seek the services of a contractor that can help you with your insurance claim, such as A to Z Construction. 

Reduced Privacy

If you are in a crowded household that requires an added amount of privacy when using the bathroom, then the open concept associated with curbless showers might not suit you. 

You may work around this by installing frosted glass or a shower curtain, but these often ruin the bathroom’s appearance. 

Cold Showers

While traditional shower walls may not be as aesthetically pleasing as curbless showers, they often contribute to containing the heat during a hot shower.

Consequently, curbless showers tend to offer a colder shower experience. To overcome this issue, install heated floors or adjust the water temperature accordingly. 

Wet Bathrooms

Another disadvantage of curbless showers is that they tend to handle splash water and drain it less effectively than conventional walk-in shower areas. This is because of the absence of a physical barrier to contain the splash and direct water toward the drain.

As a result, the rest of the bathroom may remain wet for longer than expected, or water may reach previously dry areas. Because of this, it’s important to consider a proper drain setup when installing a curbless shower to ensure efficient water management and prevent any potential water damage.

Should You Get a Curbless Shower? 

There are several reasons why you should get a curbless shower. From the increased ease of cleaning the bathroom to the improved aesthetic appearance of the bathroom, curbless showers have a positive impact on the general practicality of your bathroom. 

However, it is imperative that you assess your personal needs and preferences with a qualified contractor to accurately assess the applicability of a curbless shower in your home. Contact A to Z Construction to learn more about curbless showers. 

A frameless shower door remains a solid option if you want glass in your bathroom. While some options include frames, frameless shower doors have many benefits.

From a functional design to a larger glass door overall, you can improve your bathroom and boost the overall value of your home. Let’s read on to learn more.

A Frameless Shower Door Looks Clean

If you look into a frameless shower door while reviewing the project work gallery, you’ll realize how much cleaner they look. Glass is easier to clean than frames, especially if your shower has a metal frame to protect the edges.

The metal frame can get a calcium build up and stain. If you own a frameless shower door, you’ll only have the glass to worry about, meaning you can use glass cleaner to wipe down the frameless shower door and make it clear.

You may have to use additional chemicals to clean the doors if you have materials other than glass, making the cleaning process extensive. Only having to use one cleaning agent makes the cleaning process faster.

Larger Glass to Show Off the Shower

If you want more glass for your door, go with a frameless shower door. Since the material won’t take up more space in the bathroom, and it looks more visually appealing. That means if you show your home to anyone, your shower will look bigger and more impressive.  

Some people like it when bathrooms feel open and accessible, so having a frameless shower door will enhance that feeling. It also means it won’t feel as small while you shower since you can see out the glass and won’t feel trapped.

You can also easily see the shower and will be able to see if there are any leaks. 

A Glass Door Is Functional

If you go with a frameless shower door, you’ll notice its functional design and how it can work better for your home. Below are a few benefits of a frameless, glass shower door:

• Increased safety
• Keeping the water in the shower
• Allowing steam to block the view

As you look into shower remodeling, you’ll want to pick options that make you feel safe. For example, the glass door provides an additional barrier to stop you from falling out of the shower. You can also see out of the glass in the event of an emergency.

The glass keeps the water in the shower, preventing it from leaking. However, if you have a shower curtain, the water can slip between the cracks, allowing it to get on the ground and even damage the floor in some instances.

While you can see through the glass, steam will build up in the shower and block the inside from view. If you share the bathroom with others, you won’t have to worry about them seeing you, but you can wipe away the steam if you want to see out. 

Boost the Value of Your Home

When thinking about bathroom remodeling, you’ll want to maximize the value of your home. For example, you can purchase a frameless shower door, which naturally has more value than a shower without a door.

On top of that, some people will spend more money on a shower door without a frame, especially if they find it visually appealing. Besides, the additional glass is worth more than a piece of plastic separating the bathroom from the shower.

While small amenities may not seem like much, they can quickly add value and improve your home. For example, even though a shower door with a frame will be worth more than an open shower, a frameless shower door, due to its larger, more open look, is more sought after and therefore, more valuable.

A Frameless Shower Door Doesn’t Need a Curtain

Purchasing different curtains and plastic protectors can quickly become expensive, but a frameless shower door doesn’t require curtains. Since the glass is a barrier between the shower and the bathroom, it’ll protect the rest of the bathroom from getting wet.

You also won’t need to replace the frameless shower door unless it cracks or shatters. Since the glass is made of high-quality materials, it won’t have as many issues as a curtain, which can rip, tear, and become dirty with time.

Even though curtains don’t cost as much money, it can become annoying having to remove and replace them frequently. A frameless shower door sits on a hinge, so you just have to grab the handle to push or pull the door into place. 

Learn About Frameless Shower Doors Today

When considering a renovation, remember the benefits of a frameless shower door and the additional value it adds to your property. Contact A to Z Construction today to review our glass options and get your frameless shower door.

Your bathroom is more than just a functional space. It’s a haven where you can relax, rejuvenate, and unwind. When it comes to bathroom renovations or remodels, many homeowners focus on fixtures such as sinks, toilets, or bathtubs. However, one such addition that often goes overlooked is a shower bench. 

A shower bench is a waterproof seating platform or stool designed for the bathroom to provide comfort and safety. Installing a shower bench may seem like a minor change. Still, its impact on your daily bathing routine extends beyond mere convenience. 

Let’s explore why you should consider installing a shower bench in your bathroom.

Benefits of a Shower Bench

A shower bench is a practical addition to any bathroom. It offers a range of benefits that can make your daily routine easier and more enjoyable. Here are five advantages of incorporating a shower bench into your bathroom remodel.

1. Functional

Shower benches provide a multitude of conveniences that enhance the overall bathing experience. They offer a comfortable and secure seating option within the shower, allowing individuals to relax and enjoy their bathing routine without the need to stand for prolonged periods. 

Shower benches get used as platforms to help while shaving legs. They enhance safety and reduce risks like slips caused by shaving creams and running water.

A shower bench also provides a stable surface for storage activities. They create a convenient space to place your toiletries, such as shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and shaving supplies. The spaces underneath them can also be used for other toiletries.

2. Relaxation

Shower benches create a spa-like atmosphere contributing to a relaxing bathing experience. They offer relaxation by providing a comfortable and supportive seating option. 

Why stand in the shower the whole time when you can sit back and relax on your custom bench? Not only will you enjoy the calming feeling of the water, but you’ll also avoid the stress of standing and trying to keep your balance.

Shower benches also provide a space to unwind and take their time. Sitting on a bench creates a tranquil environment where you escape the daily hustle and bustle. It allows you to pause, reflect, and release stress and tension. This experience can be meditative, providing a peaceful, serene ambiance that promotes relaxation.

3. Accessible

Shower benches are crucial for individuals with limited mobility, disabilities, or elderly facing challenges when standing for extended periods or maintaining balance in the shower. They provide a stable and secure seating option, allowing them to shower safely and comfortably. 

A shower remodel also facilitates more effortless mobility in the bathroom. Disabled people using wheelchairs can use it to transition from the wheelchair. An injured person can also use it to shower and avoid standing for too long.

4. Safer Bathing

Shower benches act as grab bars and provide stability and support, reducing the risk of accidents in the bathroom. They offer a secure seating option that helps individuals maintain balance and stability, particularly for those with mobility issues or balance impairments. 

Shower benches also reduce the strain and fatigue associated with standing for extended periods, promoting safer bathing for individuals with physical limitations. Additionally, these benches facilitate easy access to showering essentials, minimizing the risk of accidents due to excessive movement or reaching.

A custom bench eliminates the risk of slipping on a wet surface or losing balance while standing. You can shower confidently, knowing you have a secure seating option that supports your body weight and helps maintain stability.

5. Better Aesthetics

Shower benches not only offer functional benefits, but can also make your bathroom feel luxe. They can be a stylish and visually appealing addition to the shower area, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to the space.

These benches contribute to better aesthetics through their design and materials. They are available in various styles, including modern, minimalist, rustic, and contemporary, allowing you to choose a bench that complements your bathroom’s decor.

Moreover, a custom shower bench can serve as a focal point or statement piece within the shower area. With their unique shapes, patterns, or finishes, these benches draw attention and become a design element that adds interest and character to the bathroom. 

Upgrade Your Bathroom Today With A to Z Construction

When optimizing your bathroom space, installing a shower bench is a wise decision that offers numerous advantages. You’ll enjoy increased accessibility and safety, not to mention improved comfort and convenience. Trust us, it’s a game-changer.

In need of a shower bench specialist? A to Z Construction is well-versed in the latest trends, designs, and materials for custom shower benches. Our expertise and commitment to customer satisfaction make us a reliable choice for a bathroom remodel.

Contact A to Z Construction today and embark on a journey toward a custom shower bench that will enhance your bathroom’s functionality and aesthetics.

If you are ready for something new in your bathroom, consider redoing the entire thing on your own. There are plenty of DIY tutorials and before and after pictures on social media, Pinterest, or the internet. However, it’s not always as easy as it looks. 

Remodeling a bathroom by yourself is much more complicated than it looks. It may end in disaster if you aren’t properly trained. From flooring to plumbing to rewiring, hiring a professional is better to ensure that you will have the best bathroom possible. That’s the best way to reduce avoidable costs and mitigate disasters such as water damage. 

If you aren’t convinced, keep reading. Here are the top reasons you should hire a professional to help remodel your bathroom instead of trying to do it yourself. It’s crucial that everything is done well in all the different aspects of bathroom remodeling.

Why You Should Hire a Professional for a Bathroom Remodel

There are multiple elements to remodeling your bathroom. Although you can likely take on one or two of these elements successfully, it is a massive project and should be done simultaneously. Without professional help, a bathroom can end in flooding, faulty wiring, or uneven tiling. 

Hiring a professional to avoid disasters and ensure an excellent bathroom remodel is crucial. Here are just a few aspects of bathroom remodeling that are better done with the help of a professional. 

When you hire a professional contractor, they will handle the entire process. From plumbing to tiling, each contractor has a team of experts who specialize in various parts of home improvement. So you won’t have to worry about hiring several different people. Instead, just one expert can help you handle the whole process.

Design 

Of course, one of the most exciting parts of a bathroom renovation is designing and creating your dream bathroom. However, this can be difficult if you don’t know how to account for new appliances, flooring, and other aspects. 

If you want to design the perfect bathroom, hiring a professional remodeler can help you match your expectations to reality. A good remodeler will help you take your designs to reality and set up the ideal bathroom.

Plumbing

Plumbing ensures that the sink, shower, and toilet function smoothly. If you are replacing any of these large appliances, you’ll need a plumber to ensure that you don’t cause leakages, floods, or long-term pipe damage. 

Remodeling a bathroom might involve new pipes or in-depth plumbing. This is extremely specialized work and should be performed by a professional only. While you can hire a plumber separately, it’s much easier to hire a contractor to do the entire bathroom and allow them to bring their own plumber.

Flooring and Tiling

There are multiple options for reflooring a bathroom. From hardwood to tiling, you can choose a variety of options and colors. However, getting it completed well is a matter of professional expertise. Tiling is a hard thing to do, and any miscalculation can end in an uneven floor. 

To ensure the best possible flooring, you should hire a professional. They will be able to find you the best materials and install them at an affordable and efficient rate. Your flooring is crucial to tie the whole bathroom together and should not be done on your own.

Appliance Replacement 

While you don’t generally think of the appliances in the bathroom as appliances, they are crucial. Replacing a toilet or shower is a significant task that requires physical expertise and knowledge of tiling, plumbing, and other aspects. Hiring a professional is the only way to replace any large bathroom features properly. 

Because all of the bathroom features include water somehow, you could easily cause leaks or flooding by attempting to replace them on your own. In addition, water outside of the pipes will lead to mold and can ruin a bathroom or a home. This is another reason that professional help is essential when remodeling a bathroom.

Lighting and Wiring

While some aspects of remodeling can be done on your own, it’s essential to hire a professional for replacing lighting fixtures or rewiring a bathroom. Faulty wiring can lead to electrical fires, shorts, and danger for anyone using the room. This is especially true for a bathroom. 

A bathroom renovator will have an electrician on contract to help with any rewiring needs. However, if you decide to do the rest of the bathroom DIY, lighting and wiring is where hiring a pro is crucial.

Walls and Painting 

Whether you want a simple paint job or a tile backsplash, getting a pro to install it is a great idea. They can redo the walls while everything else is getting done, so you won’t have to worry about messing up your new floors or appliances with paint. 

Painting is one of the easier aspects of remodeling, but the difference between an amateur and a professional paint job is easy to tell. Every aspect will look perfect when you get a professional to finish the job.

Start Remodeling Your Bathroom With A to Z Today!

Unless you are a professional, hiring someone to help you complete your ideal bathroom renovation is best. From designing the layout to implementing plumbing and wiring, a professional contractor can ensure that everything goes to plan. Rather than attempting a DIY project and potentially ending up with a messy bathroom, it’s best to contact the local experts at A to Z Construction today to get started.