Roofs for Troops
May 16, 2012
As a form of gratitude for our troops who serve our country,
the “Roofs for Troops” program is being offered through GAF Materials Corp.
This includes all National Guard, Retired, and current personnel.
This program started on January 1st and ends December 31st, 2012. Active military veterans and retirees who use a GAF certified contractor can receive a $300 rebate from the manufacture when they purchase a new GAF Lifetime Roofing System and provide proof of purchase for GAF Lifetime Shingles & at least three qualifying GAF accessories.
On top of that, Joe Percario General Contractors will MATCH the $300 that GAF is offering. That’s a $600 savings for you on your new GAF Roof System that we are proud to offer!
This is a small form of gratitude from GAF and your local certified contractor, Joe Percario General Contractors, to our veterans and current personnel for their sacrifice and commitment.
Already had your roof done with us this year? No problem.
Click Here to Download the GAF Rebate Form
About GAF
GAF Corporation supplies us with quality materials for our roofing jobs, such as roofing, shingles and other materials. So when working with us, only expect the highest quality materials from their company, who has been around since 1886. They are North America’s largest manufacturer of commercial & residential roofing and have been awarded and recognized countless times for their supreme products and innovation. To name a few, they were named #1 in Innovation for Shingles by Home Builder and were the winner of the Builder’s Choice Award.
About Joe Percario General Contractors
Carrying on the family tradition for over 59 years, Joe Percario General Contractors, LLC continues to be a pioneer in the New Jersey home improvement industry. We are known best for Roofing, Siding, Windows, Decks, Additions, Kitchens, Bathrooms, Basements, Sunrooms and Masonry.
Click to visit any of the following pages of our website:
- Siding New Jersey
- Windows New Jersey
- Decks New Jersey
- Additions New Jersey
- Kitchens New Jersey
- Bathrooms New Jersey
- Basements New Jersey
- Sunrooms New Jersey
We understand that before you do business with a contractor, you’d like to know what other people who have used him have to say. That’s why we are proud to say that our reputation is sound and we have earned the spot at “# 1 in New Jersey for Repeat and Referral Business.” See what some of our customers are saying by clicking here: Testimonials
6 Steps to Choosing the Right Contractor
January 16, 2012
Choosing the right Contractor is very important, while some find it easy,
but others find it difficult. Here are 6 things to remember when choosing the right Contractor.
- Take Your Time Comparing Companies
This is important because some companies use different materials and craftsmanship, which contributes to the various prices. The old saying “you get what you pay for” is true for construction materials and supplies. Do you want top quality supply and work which can last a lifetime; or do you want low quality, which needs to be replaced continuously?
Our Company provides top quality service and materials. We own our own lumberyard with high quality wood, and we buy our materials from trusted suppliers.
- Check the References and Testimonials
Check the company’s history of other jobs they have done. Are the customers satisfied with their work?
If the company does not provide any form of testimonials, that may be a sign that their clients were not satisfied with their work.
Check out company’s testimonials and before and after pictures.
- Visit Their Offices
Why not visit our Company? We have friendly employees who are happy at their job. We are an organized and safe company and our customers is our main priority. We are here to help you with your questions.
Picking a company that is unorganized and have employees that are not happy to work is a sign that there is something wrong.
- Visiting their Work Cites
If you see that a company that you were considered is doing a project, you should analyze the work cite. Is the cite a mess? Are the employees slacking off and not doing their job? Do they have quality materials and equipment?
- Confirmed Insurance
It is vital to know if the company has proper, up-to-date insurance and licensed. Do not be afraid to ask for paperwork or insurance documents.
Joe Percario General Contractors is both Insured and Licensed.
- Permits And Approvals
Make sure the company you picked is reliable and organized. The one thing you do not want is halting or delaying the project because they did not obtain the proper permits or government approvals.
Make sure the company obtains the right permits, no matter how small or big the job is.
Keeping these 6 things in mind will ensure a more rewarding,
enjoyable and affordable construction, renovation or remodeling effort.
House Hold Electric Bills Sky-Rocket
December 28, 2011
All home owners must have noticed the increase of electric cost in the past five years. In 2010, an average home owners paid $1,419, an average increase of $300. This is the largest case of increase of electricity since the 1970′s. The cause is, consumers have bigger houses, more air-conditioning and more electronics than before. Also the price increase is affected by higher fuel prices, and expenses of replacing old power plants, that is cheap to operate, but polluting the planet – coal.
The cheapest electric bills are in the Northwest communities, where hydropower dams are located – as low as 2 cents per kilowatt, but in New York City, it cost 26 cents per kilowatt.
In New Jersey, the average price is 16.57 per kilowatt an hour, while in Washington it is 8.06 per kilowatt an hour.
NDP leader Brian Mason explains why power bills are set to skyrocket
If you want to read the in depth article featured in usatoday, click the link below:
What to do about fallen trees on your property
December 22, 2011
Unluckily, after a hurricane or blizzard, Mother Nature made a tree timber crashed onto your property. What do you do? Most people don’t know what to do, but after reading this article, you will have a clue of what to do if a tree falls upon your property.
It is recommended to call a professional tree removal service as soon as possible if the tree has fallen onto your home. The tree needs to be removed as soon as possible to reduce further damage to your property.
Make sure you check with your insurance company and make a claim. Most insurance companies cover the tree removal and the cost of the damage.
It may be common sense, but do not approach damaged electrical power lines.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires all trees fallen ten feet away from a power line to be removed professionally. Do not try removing the tree by yourself.
After you called your Insurance Company and had the tree removed from the roof of your home, you are recommended to call a roofing contractor such as Joe Percario General Contractors and get an estimate on the repair. The main priority is to make your roof water proof so there is no additional damage to your home.
Beware that a tree can be rooted to below your home and damage your foundation. Signs can include cracks in the plaster inside the house or cracks on the brickwork outside your home.
What if my neighbor’s tree falls onto my property? Who’s fault is it?
If your neighbor’s tree falls onto your property, both of the homeowners should call their insurance company, and your neighbor will pay for his damages, and you will pay for your damages. Generally, if the tree is damaged due to a storm, the owner would not be considered negligent.
Granite Vs. Marble
December 16, 2011
VS
Marble Granite
Both materials that were created deep into the Earth millions of years ago, almost look the same, but have different characteristics.
Granite is light-colored, formed by cooling of magma below Earth’s surface.
Marble is hard, white or black and has spots of different colors.
Granite has been used for architectural use, such as buildings, bridges and pavement, while marble is used for it’s beauty and unique feel; most commonly used in kitchens, bathrooms and shower walls.
They cost almost the same, and priced are according to 3 categories:
- Durability
- Longevity
- Natural Beauty
Which Is More Durable?
Granite is more durable than marble in everyday wear and tear use. You are able to cut vegetables, meats, fruits and other items on a granite countertop without a cutting board and it will not damage the surface.
But if you cut it on a marble countertop, you will quickly ruin the surface.
Which Is More Heat Resistant?
Granite countertops can be subject to heat unlike marble. You can place hot pots and pants on a granite top without damaging the surface, while placing a hot pot on a marble top will lead to discolor.
Which Material Is Easier To Clean?
Both materials can be easily cleaned, if you apply the right sealer after installation. A sealer helps resist staining and bacteria growth. A sealer should be applied every twelve to eightteen months.
Granite has smaller pores, so it will contract less bacteria than marble. In other words, if you do not care for your counter tops, a granite surface will last a little longer than a marble surface.
Bathtubs Vs. Showers
December 12, 2011
Luxury Versus Space
This is a common decision home owners have to consider when redesigning their bathrooms.
Other benefits of showers include:
- More Green: Taking showers generally uses less water than using a bathtub.
- They’re Fast: Theoretically, you can go in and be out of a shower faster than you can fill the bathtub.
- Effective: It is proven that taking showers can remove more dirt and germs than bathing in a bathtub. It is more luxurious, baths allow you to wash, but not fully clean.
- Freedom & Therapy: While taking a shower, you can change the temperature of your water any time you want to. It is said, when you shower in warm/hot water, and change the temperature to a cooler temperature for a short burst, it releases tension and invigorate the body : Hydrotherapy.
On the other hand, bath houses have been uses for centuries as a form of therapy to relax your muscles. Bathtubs are known to be more luxurious and peaceful.
Other benefits include:
- Relaxing: Taking a bath in a warm tub of water with bath salt sounds soothing doesn’t it? It soothes your stressed muscles, sore feet and relieves stress.
- Helps Circulation: According to Janice Hein, “Bathing in a bath tub helps dilate your blood vessels and help circulation.”
- Pain Reliever: Relieves back pains, headaches, sports injuries, and is said to take weight off your joints and muscles.
The decision of either picking to install a bathtub or shower is up to you; according to which category you fit into. Typically a shower is to clean yourself in a short period of time, while bathing in a bathtub is more luxurious if you have the time.
Which do you prefer?
Home Improvement Trends Of 2011 & Beyond
December 1, 2011
An article on home improvement trends containing insights from 50 experts on the subject, inspired me to share with you all how easy it is to improve your home’s appearance and living mojo.
You can find the original article here: 17 home improvement trends 2011 and beyond
Let’s look on what the experts suggest:
Home Updates
- Small updates to the home can change the overall look and and give you a feeling of a new environment.
- Interior improvements has been a focal point for many years.
- Redesigning and reorganizing your existing space is more likely to occur than expanding your home.
- Kitchen remodeling is predicted to become more popular throughout the years.
Efficient Spaces
- In the coming of age, more and more employees are working from home, hybrid rooms such as; office rooms is going to become more important.
- It is predicted that home owners will go from having large rooms to separating them for more efficient space.
Bringing Nature Indoors
- Many home owners are incorporating the look and feels of the outdoors into their home. Home owners want to merge modern society and it’s technology with the natural world.
- Energy conservation will continue to be an important goal to homeowners remodeling their homes.
- Experts predict that building new decks and porches will become more popular in years to come.
New Technology
- Technology plays an important role in home redesign; efficient lighting, smart appliances and entertainment.
- People today are relying on technology in their everyday lives. Consumers find information about products and producers instantly online. Consumers also use technology such as; computers and television in their everyday lives, in which homeowners are willing to invest in technology to ease and comfort their everyday lives.
Green Living
- While homeowners start to care about a healthy environment, they also care about the comfort and safety of their family at home.
- Consider using eco-friendly ways to illuminate your house, such as; natural light through windows and skylights, and eco-friendly light bulbs.
- Recycling is an important role for our environment, recyclable materials include: glass, wine works and paper.
- Solar energy is becoming a popular source of energy while helping the environment.
What do you think about these trends?
Do you think there is anything that is missing that needs to be incorporated?
I would love to hear your opinions
The Energy Tax Credit: the End is Near
November 30, 2011
There isn’t much time left, but you can still take advantage of the Energy Tax Credit that expires at the end of this year. Unlike last year’s, the 2011 Energy Tax Credit will not be extended so this is your last chance. If you are interested in understanding what the Tax Credit means for you, read on for answers to some common questions that have come our way:
Why is the government providing this for us?
Energy is expensive and in some cases, uses up many non-renewable resources. Our government officials know that it is necessary to take steps toward making U.S. homes more energy efficient, so they provided help for homeowners who are looking to make the initial investment. Those who take advantage of the stimulus will save big in the long run. 
What does the 2011 Tax Credit provide?
10% Credit up to maximum of $500 on energy efficient products
$200 eligibility for energy efficient windows and skylights
$500 for eligible doors
Specifications:
- Must meet energy program requirements
- Must be installed in a taxpayers primary residence
- Must be installed by December 31, 2011
If you have claimed an energy efficient tax credit under the 2009-2010 Tax Credit, your best option is to consult a tax professional to determine your remaining eligibility for this credit. Why?
Because the tax credit has “lifetime limits” from the years 2006-2011. That means this credit is like an extension of the previous one for $1,500, not an entirely new credit.
Products:
Insulation
…With the primary purpose of reducing heat loss or gain in your home, so not all products qualify.
Click the following link to see the most economic insulation level for your home: Zip Code Insulation Calculator
Where to Insulate?
- Attic Spaces*
- Ducts - Basements – Foundations
- Cathedral Ceilings - Crawl Spaces - Slab-on-garage floors
- Exterior Walls*
- Floors Above Unheated Garages
*Save BIG here!
Nearly 25% of your home’s wall surface is made up of wooden studs which are entirely uninsulated (walls have insulation between the studs, but not over them). That is like having one whole wall of your home without any insulation! Heat by-passes the insulation in your walls and escapes across these wooden studs. This process is called thermal bridging, and it’s costing you money every day!
Watch this video for a good visual explanation: Thermal Bridging
Another good resource: Insulated Siding
Roofing
Metal and Asphalt: but only if such roof has appropriate pigmented coatings or cooling granules which are specifically and primarily designed to reduce heat gain.
Look for the Energy Star label on products to determine if they qualify!
*GAF Cool Series is a line specifically with energy efficiency in mind and will qualify for the tax credit.
Windows, Doors & Skylights
“The National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) operates a voluntary program that tests, certifies, and labels windows, doors, and skylights based on their energy performance ratings. The NFRC label provides a reliable way to determine a window’s energy properties and to compare products.
The NFRC label can be found on all ENERGY STAR® qualified window, door, and skylight products, but ENERGY STAR bases its qualification only on U-factor and SHGC ratings.” – U.S. Department of Energy
What does this mean in plain English? That the NFRC rating has higher standards than the Energy Star rating. Only the Energy Star rating is needed to qualify for the tax credit, but for optimum performance, see what the NFRC has to say.
How do I file for my energy tax credit?
1. Purchase qualifying products
2. Keep the Energy Star labels or PRINT the Manufacturer’s Certification Statement
3. Claim this Tax Credit on your 2011 Federal Income taxes
Want to get started or have more questions?
Call us while there is still time to schedule an installation before the year’s end: (908) 245-1071
A Delicious Home for the Holidays!
November 28, 2011
Your Best Ever Holiday Baking Starts Right Here!
What better way to enjoy your newly renovated ‘home for the holidays’ than with the scent of freshly baked favorites? Want to decorate cookies like you have a degree in pastry? We searched, tested, tasted and now present to you the recipes we have deemed the tastiest! Check out these holiday sweets made easy: from Royal Icing for cookie-decorating to ginger snaps, these classic treats make the whole home smell like holidays!
Pair with sugar cookies and make decorating a new holiday tradition for the whole family!
For some creative ideas and technical how-to’s watch this video 70419.html
Fun to make and yummy to the taste!
Chewy and Spicy meets Whole Wheat Healthy Wholesomeness.
This makes the perfect gift in a jar! It’s artistic and delicious!
Enjoy!
Case Study
October 27, 2011
Case Study: Coolidge Road, Elizabeth, NJ
This home on Coolidge Road in Elizabeth presented several challenges, cosmetic and functional. Mainly the owners wanted to preserve the integrity of the home’s original 1925 architecture while improving the degree in which it provided shelter and energy efficiency. As always budget concerns were always under consideration. The following is a breakdown of how the improvements were made by Joe Percario General Contracting.
1. The Roof
The Roof The first concern was the roof, which was deteriorated and leaky do to age. It had two layers of asphalt shingles nailed to the original cedar shingles. All three roofs were removed and replaced with a dimensional shingle that closely resembled the original cedar roof. The new GAF/ELK mfg. Dimensional Designer Shingles are replicas of the original wood shake and, made from an asphalt and fiberglass mixture of material, represent the latest in technology. The roof was installed with new absolute insulation and ventilation in mind.
2. Siding
Siding Between heat escaping through the roof and the moisture, cold and heat creeping behind the siding, the owners were paying a premium in fuel bills in order to heat and cool their home. With the advantages of the new roof’s ventilation and insulation, half the battle to keep the house energy efficient was done.
The siding presented a different challenge. It had no insulation behind it and blowing in foam, fiberglass or cellulose was an expensive option. The house had clapboard siding on the lower half and cedar perfection shakes on the upper half. Both portions were splintering and loosening. The owner originally called to have the home painted, but because the siding was in such bad shape the paint job would have been wasteful and the cost of repairing the old wood was prohibitive. The solution to the siding and trim challenge started with picking a clapboard and cedar shakes product that matched the exact projection, dimensions and textures of the original constructed classic home that was almost a full century old.
Stripping the paint off of one of the panels revealed the original color scheme. We wanted to ensure that the siding and trim were available in the colors we wanted.
An added bonus was that we found a full back insulated siding that could be used in leu of the blown insulation at a fraction of the price. By using siding that had an insulation backing on it, we were able to add a double layer of energy efficiency to the home. The siding manufacture that Joe Percario recommended was Certainteed. They made all the products that fit the siding and trim criteria. Two of there products used were the 7” Full back Insulated CedarBoards and the Cedar Impressions 7” perfection shake.
3. Windows
As bad as the roof and walls were at conserving heat, the windows were twice as bad. The windows were also irregularly shaped but were beautifully designed. We were able to inject insulation around the original classic windows and cap and rap them with trims and accents that were maintenance free but nostalgically correct. The new design even enhanced the appearance of the authentic leaded glass.
4. Accents & Trim
The trim work on the house was distinct. But like most of the wood some parts were deteriorated beyond repair. Historical restoration of the wood soffits would be very costly. The solution to this challenge was quite simple. Percario’s maintains a huge catalog of accents and trim to fit every style of architecture. A perfect match was found for the soffits, accents, trim and even the columns.
5. Gutters
The gutter system was added to the house as a renovation about five years previous to Percario’s makeover. Very little thought was given to the aesthetics and functionality of the gutters and drainpipe. As evident in the before photo the drain pipes were obtrusive in appearance. A study of the system in action showed flaws in the way the rain water was funneled. Percario’s reconfigured the system to work more efficiently and ultimately divert water further away from the foundation. As the after photo indicated the new gutter system s virtually invisible. Of course the blue of the leader pipes match perfectly to the siding.
6. Painting
There is a pediment above the portico that is simply stunning. The low pitched gable had a sun burst painted on it. To achieve the same effect it would have to be repainted. The fact is that Vinyl would not have had the same authentic effect, and because it is easy to reach, periodic maintenance can be easily done with paint that is perfectly mixed to match the color of the siding.
The design was painted by a highly trained Percario painter capable of doing the job with the required precision. The new door to the home was also painted, in red as was the style.
7. Energy conservation
Percario did an assessment of the energy use and cost to heat and cool the house. The estimated difference in the owners annual fuel bill prior to the remodeling and afterwards was $1,000 for the year. The owner’s annual expenditure on gas and electric will go easily from approximately $2,500 to $1,500 annually. With a projected savings of over $20,000 for the next ten years!
8. Good Neighbors
Percario General Contracting is committed to keeping homes and neighborhoods nostalgically correct. They offer remodeling consultation as an added value to their service. Few contractors offer architectural design consultation and those who do attach a big price tag to it.
It is common for neighbors to call on Joe Percario for advice on all their remodeling needs once they see the care we put into our work. A Joe Percario remodeling job not only improves the home but the neighborhood as a whole. The benefit of a quality remodeling job is shared by the community.