Our Roofing Blog

Whether you’re visiting Indianapolis for the weekend or you’ve lived here for years and need something fun to do on a random Tuesday, the good news is there’s no shortage of exciting things to do in Indianapolis!

Even though Indiana isn’t the state people immediately think of when they think “exciting,” as a local business that offers Indianapolis residents quality roof repair services, we insist the city of Indianapolis often surprises people with just how beautiful, bustling, and downright fun it is.

Feeling ready to explore Indy? Try out one of these nine unique things to do!

1) Cross a Hot Air Balloon Ride Off Your Bucket List

What’s on your bucket list? Do you want to run a full marathon? Visit every state? Go sky diving?

What about riding a hot air balloon?

Hot air balloon rides are on a lot of people’s bucket lists. Whether or not it’s on yours, it’s still a unique, exciting, and often a once-in-a-lifetime experience. And you can ride one right here in Indianapolis!

At Indy Hot Air, you can schedule private rides at sunrise or sunset. You can even schedule a homestead flight and take off right from your own home! The investment is more significant than other items on this list, so many people save up to do it on a special occasion like a birthday or anniversary.

2) Unleash Your Inner Cowboy With a Horseback Ride

Just outside of Indianapolis in Brownsburg, Indiana, lies Natural Valley Ranch. Here, you can go horseback riding on their beautiful trails, take riding lessons, or even host birthday parties.

You can choose from 30 or 60-minute guided trail rides that wind along the stunning banks of White Lick Creek. Natural Valley Ranch covers 78 acres of scenic land. This is the perfect activity for when you want to spend a nice day outside. Just remember to wear closed-toed shoes!

3) Get a Glimpse Into the Past at the Indiana Medical History Museum

If your idea of fun is looking at brains in jars, then have we got the perfect place for you. Explore the beginnings of “modern” medicine at the Indiana Medical History Museum. You’ll find lots of quirky and fascinating memorabilia at this unique museum.

You’ll learn about the development of psychiatric treatment over the years, view lots of old-school medical equipment, and leave with a new-found appreciation for today’s medical practices. This activity definitely isn’t for people with weak stomachs!

4) Check Out the Gardens and Museums at Newfields

Newfields is quite an impressive and popular place in Indianapolis. On this stunning campus, you’ll find:

• The Indianapolis Museum of Art
• The Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park
• The historic Lilly House
• Miller House and Garden
• Elder Greenhouse (with a beer garden)
• A cafe
• Performance spaces
• Gift shop
• And more!

Talk about a fun-filled day all in one place. Whether you want to enjoy the outdoor spaces in spring and summer or hunker down in the Museum of Art and Lilly House on a cold, rainy day, Newfields is sure to impress.

5) Be Brave and Try Ziplining at Go Ape!

When you think of ziplining, you probably think of New Zealand or Costa Rica. But did you know you can go ziplining right here in Indianapolis? That’s right; Go Ape! has a location at Eagle Creek Park where you can fly through the trees like Tarzan.

While you’re at Eagle Creek Park, you can also spend time hiking, kayaking, or swimming. It’s one of the most sought-after destinations for nature lovers in Indiana!

6) Step Below the City in the Catacombs ️

What do Indianapolis and the Roman Empire have in common? Catacombs!

While catacombs traditionally serve as ancient burial places, the Indianapolis ones aren’t that. Instead, they’re the remains of Tomlinson Hall, which burned down in 1958.

During the guided tour of the City Market Catacombs, you’ll learn the stories of two historic Indianapolis buildings: City Market and Tomlinson Hall. While you won’t see any tombs, you’ll get to view an expanse of brick barrel-vaulted arches underneath the bustling city.

Note: Since the Indianapolis Catacombs have a very rough and uneven dirt floor, this tour is not considered accessible for guests with walkers, strollers, canes, or wheelchairs.

7) Eat, Shop, and Play at the Indianapolis City Market ‍

The Indianapolis City Market is home to The Original Farmers’ Market, where you can purchase fresh fruits, veggies, cheeses, meats, and more from local artisans. Their Buy 2 Give 1 program helps provide fresh, healthy foods to three downtown Indianapolis homeless missions. Thousands of pounds of fresh produce are donated to people in need each year!

At the City Market, you can also enjoy authentic international cuisine at a variety of restaurants, shop at boutiques, and play bocce ball. In fact, the City Market Catacombs are located at this site as well, so you can spend an entire day just at the City Market.

8) See a Play at the Indiana Repertory Theatre

The Indiana Repertory Theatre is one of the premier regional theatres in the entire country. You can’t go wrong with spending an evening or a weekend afternoon watching a well-produced play with world-class actors and designers. Discounted tickets are available for certain demographics, including military members, educators, and low-income families.

The theatre is located in the historic IRT Building, which is so visually stunning it constitutes a visit of its own.

9) Find the Best Restaurant on Mass Ave

Massachusetts Avenue, known locally as Mass Ave, is a five-block area chock full of restaurants, art galleries, and boutiques. But in our opinion, the restaurants are what you can’t miss.

From German eats and delicious tacos to Irish pubs and upscale seafood restaurants, there’s something for everyone. Make a game out of it and rank your favorites with a friend!

Support Local Indianapolis Businesses

Clearly, there’s no shortage of fun things to do in Indianapolis, and we’ve only scratched the surface. We hope you enjoy checking out these local attractions as much as we do. And if you’re looking to continue supporting local Indianapolis businesses in other areas of your life, introduce yourself to our team at OpenBox Roofing!

As a local exterior renovation company, we love helping Indianapolis home and business owners protect their properties with beautiful and high-quality roofing and siding solutions. Get in touch for a free estimate!

Are you a homeowner in need of siding replacement or installation?

There are a few stand-out siding brands on the market right now, two of which we suggest, and maybe you are already considering between the two. But which one should you go with?

Today we’re going to outline: James Hardie siding vs LP Smartside.

In this comparison, we’ll take a look at James Hardie and LP Smartside to determine what sets each apart. We’ll discuss the pros and cons of both in detail. That way, homeowners like yourself have all the required information to make the best decision.

Let’s jump right into our comprehensive overview of these two popular siding options!

James Hardie Siding: What Is It?

James Hardie siding is made of fiber cement, which is a mixture of cellulose fibers and cement. It is a good choice if you are looking for a health-conscious siding option. The cellulose fibers contain sand and wood pulp, which have low levels of toxicity. Not only that, but James Hardie has been a leader when it comes to removing asbestos in its products.

Since this siding is made of fiber cement, it’s a heavier material. It looks good on the side of homes, and it’s durable.

3 James Hardie Siding Pros ✅

James Hardie offers numerous advantages. Here are a few of them:

1) Minimal Maintenance

One of the most attractive features of James Hardie siding is that it’s low maintenance. Since it’s made from fiber cement, you don’t have to worry about the boards cracking or rotting.

As you know, termites can wreak havoc on a home, especially when it contains siding made from wood. But you won’t have that problem when you install fiber cement siding.

2) Durable

James Hardie fiber cement products were designed to withstand water damage and tough climates. If you want siding that will last, James Hardie is the way to go.

3) Easy to Clean

It’s super simple to clean Hardie siding. All you have to do is rinse it off with water. If it needs a little more attention, you can pressure wash it. It’s that easy!

3 James Hardie Cons ❌

While James Hardie offers incredible siding options, it has its drawbacks. Some of its disadvantages include:

1) Not Derived From Green Material

If you are someone who prefers eco-friendly products, James Hardie siding wouldn’t be the best option. It’s not made from the “greenest” materials. Therefore, you may have to bypass this option if you’re concerned about the types of products used on your home.

2) Heavy

On one hand, it’s good that James Hardie siding is dense. However, that also means that installing it takes more extensive labor, and installation could take longer. However, if you choose a professional contractor, like Open Box Roofing, you should have no problems.

3) Upfront Cost

Compared to other options, this siding product is more expensive. You’ll likely pay more for it upfront than if you were to choose another type of siding.

But keep in mind, James Hardie is built to last. Even if you pay more upfront, your siding material will remain intact for years to come. Plus, most contractors offer financing options that make home repairs more affordable.

LP Smartside: What Is It?

In contrast to James Hardie siding, LP Smartside contains coated wood strands that make them more resistant to moisture. It also includes zinc borate, which helps to shield the siding against insects and rotting.

LP Smartside siding has a very natural, wood-like appearance, which is great for homeowners who prefer that look.

3 LP Smartside Pros ✅

Just like James Hardie, LP Smartside has its pros. Below are some of the good things you can expect from it:

1) Green

In contrast to its opponent, LP Smartside is green. The primary ingredient used is wood, meaning that’s derived from renewable source material. It does contain resins and binders, but they are safe and low-emitting.

2) Termite Resistant

One of the biggest issues that homeowners face is pesky termites. The good news is, LP Smartside siding is manufactured in a way that prevents damage from termites. This is a huge plus because it means that the life of your siding will be longer.

3) Available in Long Lengths

LP Smartside siding is generally available in long lengths. Therefore, you won’t have to order as many pieces to get the job done. That means a lower cost and quicker installation.

3 LP Smartside Cons ❌

As with anything, there are downsides to LP Smartside. A few of its not-so-good qualities are:

1) Contains Organic Material

While organic material is a plus, it also has its disadvantages. Since LP Smartside products include organic materials, it means that the siding could potentially burn.

2) Flaking

In most cases, the manufacturer of this brand doesn’t coat the siding. It’s generally done by a contractor. Therefore, the coating could flake if it’s not done properly.

3) Potential Termite Damage

While LP Smartside siding is designed to prevent termite damage, it doesn’t mean it’s 100% effective. And, if you happen to live in an area where termites are common, your warranty may not cover the damages.

James Hardie Siding vs LP Smartside: Which Is the Better Option?

Overall, your best bet is James Hardie. It’s built to last, so your siding should remain intact for many years. The brand offers numerous options, so there’s something for everyone.

Not only that, but since Hardie material is easy to maintain, you won’t have to worry about regular upkeep. Honestly, it offers the most bang for your buck.

Need New Siding? We Can Help

If your home needs an exterior makeover, let Open Box Roofing do the job for you! Our professional, highly-skilled team has experience with installing all types of siding, which ensures that your home will look amazing.

With a variety of James Hardie siding options available to suit your taste, we’ll work closely with you to ensure that your vision becomes a reality.

Don’t wait any longer to transform your property, call us at 317-619-9001 or contact us via our website. We can’t wait to help you create the perfect look for your home!

Here at Open Box Roofing, we strongly believe that our customers deserve nothing less than the best. That’s why we’re proud to be a part of the James Hardie Contractor Alliance Program. James Hardie siding is on more than 8 million homes across North America because it’s the best fiber cement siding product on the market, plain and simple.

But, the real question is, how do you choose the best James Hardie Siding contractor for your siding replacement project? We can help make your decision an easy one. Continue reading to learn about the most important qualities to look for when hiring a James Hardie siding contractor.

1. Extensive Knowledge of James Hardie Siding Products and Best Practices

First things first, you’ll want to look for a contractor that knows all the ins and outs of James Hardie products and how to install them. The easiest way to do this is by hiring a James Hardie Elite Preferred Contractor. So, what does this mean?

James Hardie started a Contractor Alliance Program for contractors around the county to receive specialized training to deliver the best possible results for their customers. Contractors that qualify to join the program learn how to properly install James Hardie products and meet the rigorous standards set out by the manufacturer. Upon completion of the program, the contracting company receives the special designation of an Elite Preferred Contractor.

OpenBox Roofing is proud to have gone through this program and earned our status as an Elite Preferred Contractor. As a result, when you hire our team, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that we know everything there is to know about James Hardie products and how to install them on your home.

2. History of Successful James Hardie Siding Projects

Receiving proper training is important, but it’s only part of the process. You also need to look for a contractor that has the experience to back up the training. This means looking for a contractor that has a proven history of installing James Hardie products.

Here at OpenBox Roofing, we’ve installed James Hardie siding on more than a dozen homes in the greater Indianapolis area. We’ve put our extensive training to good use and have been the trusted choice of homeowners just like you who are hoping to transform their exteriors.

If you’re thinking about hiring our team, we’d love for you to look through our project gallery, which shows real examples of the work we’ve done for your neighbors.

3. Great Reputation With Customers

Finally, it’s important to look for a James Hardie contractor that has a proven history of delivering on promises and creating great customer experiences. We believe that no one knows us better than our customers, which is why we love to let them do the talking for us.

If you’re wondering what it’s like to work with our team on your James Hardie installation project, all you have to do is read through reviews from our previous customers. We proudly boast a 5-star rating average on Google with dozens of reviews from our customers.

Our commitment to them and to you is to always work with professionalism, listen to your ideas and questions, and deliver high-quality work that’s designed to last. We think you’ll find that those values are reflected in the reviews we receive from our customers.

Hire OpenBox Roofing as Your James Hardie Siding Contractor

Now that you know more about the qualities to look for in a James Hardie siding contractor, we hope you’ll agree that the OpenBox Roofing team is the right choice for the job.

To learn more about our experience with James Hardie products and to get started on your own project, contact our team today!

If you’ve been looking into replacing your home’s siding this year, you’ve probably started researching different siding materials. Fiber cement siding is becoming a more popular choice than ever before, as evidenced by its average 70% return on investment here in Indiana.

But what exactly is fiber cement siding?

And what makes James Hardie the best fiber cement manufacturer? We’re here to tell you everything else for when you’re ready to replace your siding.

Continue reading to learn more so you can decide if this is the right choice for your siding project.

How Is Fiber Cement Siding Made?

One thing that sets fiber cement siding apart from other materials is that it’s made from a unique blend of ingredients. The combination of these raw materials results in a beautiful and durable material that can increase your home’s curb appeal and make your home look brand new. Fiber cement siding is made with:

Silica Sand

This sand acts as a filler in the siding.

Wood Pulp/Cellulose Fibers

This blend makes the finished siding material flexible and resilient.

Portland Cement

A mixture of clay, iron, and limestone, this cement mixture helps to bind all of the other materials together. The result is a strong siding that can withstand the range of elements we experience here in Indianapolis.

Water

The water dissolves the wood pulp and hardens/activates the Portland cement.

Fiber Cement Siding Pros & Cons

Pros:

1. Durability: Fiber cement siding is highly durable and can withstand various weather conditions, including extreme heat, cold, and moisture. It is resistant to rot, decay, and insect damage, making it a long-lasting option for your home.
2. Low Maintenance: Compared to other siding types, fiber cement siding requires minimal maintenance. It does not need regular painting or staining and can often go for many years without needing any significant upkeep.
3. Fire Resistance: Fiber cement siding is non-combustible and offers excellent fire resistance, which can be hugely important for homeowners looking to enhance their property’s safety.
4. Pest Resistance: Unlike wood siding, fiber cement siding is not attractive to pests like termites, carpenter ants, or woodpeckers, reducing the risk of structural damage.
5. UV Resistance: It resists fading and damage from ultraviolet (UV) rays, maintaining its color and appearance over time.

Cons:

1. Installation Cost: Fiber cement siding can be more expensive to install than some other siding materials, such as vinyl or aluminum, depending on labor, type of fiber cement, and additional features like trim and insulation.
2. Installation Complexity: It can be more complex and time-consuming to install fiber cement siding compared to some other siding options, which could lead to higher labor costs. For specifics, get in touch with your preferred contractor for a more exact estimate.
3. Weight: Fiber cement siding is heavier than some alternative siding materials, which may require additional structural support or reinforcement of the building’s framework.

James Hardie: The Best Fiber Cement Siding Manufacturer?

Once you’ve decided to use fiber cement siding for your project, you’ll notice there are a few different brands on the market. However, James Hardie is largely recognized as the top fiber cement brand around the world.

Here are a few of the ways James Hardie Siding surpasses the competition.

It Requires Very Little Maintenance

Before you replace your siding, it’s important to consider how much time and effort you want to put into taking care of it. While other siding options require hands-on maintenance like painting and staining, James Hardie siding does not.

To keep your James Hardie siding in good condition, all you have to do is wipe it with a gentle brush and rinse it with a garden hose once or twice per year.

Its Durability Is Unmatched

Unlike other fiber cement brands, James Hardie siding is specifically engineered to withstand weather extremes like ice, high winds, snow, rain, humidity, and more. Beyond that, it’s also fire, moisture, and pest-resistant, so you don’t have to worry about common issues that plague other types of siding.

Fiber Cement Siding: Countless Style and Color Options

One of the most exciting parts of replacing your siding is having the chance to personalize your home’s exterior. James Hardie siding makes it easier than ever, thanks to its wide variety of different design options.

For example, if you like the look of wood siding but don’t want the hassle of the maintenance it requires, you can choose a James Hardie fiber cement siding option that mimics the look of wood grain in virtually any color you can imagine.

James Hardie: The Warranty Is Unbeatable

Finally, and perhaps most importantly, no other fiber cement siding company can compare when it comes to James Hardie’s warranty. When you choose Open Box Roofing and James Hardie siding for your project, you’ll get a standard 30-year non-prorated warranty that is transferable.

To make it even better, your project will also come with a 15-year warranty against peeling, chipping, and cracking, including labor and materials. It doesn’t get better than that.

Schedule Your James Hardie Siding Replacement Project Today!

Now that you know more about fiber cement siding and what makes James Hardie the best manufacturer, you can decide if it’s the best choice for your home.

When you’re ready to move forward with your project, the OpenBox Roofing team is here to get your siding job done right.

Contact us today to take the first step toward updating your home’s exterior.

When it comes to maintaining and improving our homes, the roof is one of the most vital components. A well-maintained roof not only enhances curb appeal but also protects us from the elements. However, the cost of repairing or replacing a roof can be significant, often leading homeowners to seek financing options.

If this is the first time you’ve had to deal with a roof replacement, your head might be swimming with information. We’re here to help you! In this article, we’ll delve into the world of roof financing, exploring:

• Different options
• Costs
• How to find a reputable contractor

Keep reading to learn all of that and more!

Understanding Roof Financing: What Is It?

Roof financing refers to the various methods and options available for homeowners to fund the repair or replacement of their roofing systems. These financing options enable homeowners to spread out the cost of roof projects over time, making them more manageable and accessible. Roof financing can help you address roofing issues promptly, preventing further damage to your home and saving you money in the long run.

7 Roof Financing Options

Knowing the financing options that are available to you can help you to tackle your roof replacement costs without breaking the bank. The good news is that there are plenty of different routes that you can take! Here are seven of the most popular options when it comes to financing a new roof:

1) Personal Savings

If you have a robust emergency fund or savings earmarked for home maintenance, using your personal funds can be the simplest financing option. This approach eliminates interest payments and the need for credit checks.

2) Credit Cards

For smaller roofing projects, using a credit card with a low-interest rate can be a viable option. However, this approach is recommended only if you can repay the balance within a short period to avoid accumulating high-interest debt.

3) Home Equity Loans

Homeowners with substantial equity in their homes can consider a home equity loan. These loans offer competitive interest rates, and the interest paid may be tax-deductible. However, remember that your home is used as collateral, so timely repayments are crucial.

4) Personal Loans

Unsecured personal loans are another option for financing your roof project. These loans don’t require collateral but may have higher interest rates compared to secured loans.

5) Roofing Company Financing

Many reputable roofing companies offer financing options directly to their customers. These plans can include low or even zero-interest promotions for a limited time, making them an attractive choice.

6) Government Programs

Some local or federal programs offer incentives for energy-efficient roofing upgrades. These programs can provide financial assistance or tax incentives to homeowners who opt for environmentally friendly roofing materials and systems.

7) Insurance Claims

If your roof damage is caused by covered perils, your homeowner’s insurance might cover part or all of the repair or replacement costs. Check your policy and consult with your insurance provider to determine eligibility.

The Average Cost of a Roof Replacement

The cost of a roof replacement can vary significantly based on factors such as the size of your home, the roofing material chosen, the complexity of the design, and the region you live in. On average, a roof replacement can range from $5,000 to $15,000 or more. Here’s a breakdown of the costs by roofing material:

• Asphalt Shingles: The most common roofing material, asphalt shingles, are relatively affordable, with costs ranging from $3 to $7 per square foot.
• Metal Roofing: Metal roofing offers durability and a modern aesthetic. Costs typically range from $7 to $12 per square foot.
• Wood Shakes: Wood shakes provide a classic look but tend to be more expensive due to their labor-intensive installation. Costs can range from $8 to $14 per square foot.
• Slate or Tile: These premium materials offer exceptional longevity and beauty but come with a higher price tag, ranging from $10 to $30 or more per square foot.

How to Find a Reputable Roofing Contractor

Selecting the right contractor is as crucial as choosing the right financing option. Here are some steps to help you find a reputable roofing contractor:

• Research: Start by researching local roofing contractors. Look for established companies with positive reviews and a good reputation in your community.
• Ask for Recommendations: Seek recommendations from friends, family, neighbors, and colleagues who have had roof work done recently. Personal experiences and referrals can be invaluable.
• Check Credentials: Ensure the contractor is licensed, insured, and bonded. This protects you from liability in case of accidents or damages during the project.
• Get Multiple Quotes: Obtain detailed quotes from multiple contractors. This not only helps you compare costs but also gives you insights into the scope of work and materials each contractor plans to use.
• Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask questions about the project timeline, materials, warranties, and any concerns you might have.
• Review Contracts: Carefully review the contract before signing. Make sure it includes project details, payment terms, and warranties.
• Visit Past Projects: If possible, visit some of the contractor’s past projects to assess the quality of their work firsthand.
• Check References: Ask the contractor for references from previous clients. Contact these references to inquire about their experiences working with the contractor.

The Best Contractor for the Job

Your home deserves the best possible care. When you work with OpenBox Roofing, that is exactly what you will get. At OpenBox, we work with you to help you create a roofing system that works with your specific needs and budget. Ready to get started? Contact us today to discuss your options.