FAQs

Highland Exteriors Group proudly serves various locations in Central Florida, including Altamonte Springs, Apopka, Baldwin Park, Belle Isle, Casselberry, Celebration & Golden Oaks, College Park, Conway, Downtown Orlando, Dr. Phillips & Bay Hill, Eustis, Heathrow, Lake Mary, Lake Nona, Longwood, Maitland, Mount Dora, Oakland, Oviedo, Sanford, Sorrento, Windermere & Isleworth, Winter Garden, Winter Park, and Winter Springs.

Yes, Highland Exteriors Group is fully insured with high-dollar general liability and umbrella insurance policies, providing comprehensive coverage for our clients and projects. Note that if a contractor becomes injured at your house and they are not insured, the liability is on the homeowner!

Yes, we are a fully licensed General Contractor able to operate in the state of Florida. Our license number is CGC1532055 which can be verified at www.myfloridalicense.com. 

Highland Exteriors Group specializes in a wide range of exterior services, including siding repair, renovations, and installations, exterior maintenance such as stucco repair, caulking, and sealing, waterproofing services for balconies, exterior walls, and commercial buildings, and custom home exterior installations.

Highland Exteriors Group does not charge for inspections. We encourage our clients to reach out as soon as possible to identify any issues before they become catastrophic. Our goal is to provide prompt and thorough inspections to ensure the safety and integrity of your home's exterior.

Yes, cracked stucco can indeed lead to leaks. When stucco develops cracks, it allows water to penetrate through the surface, potentially causing moisture damage to the underlying structure. It's essential to address cracked stucco promptly to prevent water infiltration and maintain the integrity of the building envelope.

Yes, moisture can penetrate through stucco, especially if the stucco surface is cracked, porous, or improperly installed. Stucco is not completely impervious to water, and if not adequately maintained or protected, moisture can infiltrate through the stucco layer and reach the underlying structure, potentially causing damage over time. Proper waterproofing and maintenance are essential to prevent moisture penetration through stucco.

Yes, you can seal stucco to help protect it from moisture penetration and other environmental factors. One common method is to apply a high-quality paint, clear sealant, or waterproofing coating specifically designed for masonry surfaces like stucco. Before sealing, the stucco surface should be thoroughly cleaned and allowed to dry completely. Then, the sealant or waterproofing coating can be applied using a brush, roller, or sprayer according to the manufacturer's instructions. It's essential to ensure uniform coverage and allow the sealant to cure properly for optimal effectiveness.

You may need to replace your siding if you notice signs of damage such as cracks, warping, rot, or extensive mold growth. Additionally, if your siding is outdated and no longer provides adequate protection or curb appeal, it might be time for a replacement. These issues may not always be obvious so essential to have your siding inspected regularly to identify any issues and determine if replacement is necessary. Highland Exteriors Group provides complimentary inspections and is happy to ensure the safety and integrity of your home exterior.

Windows typically need to be re-caulked every 5 to 10 years, depending on various factors such as climate, exposure to sunlight, and the quality of the initial caulking job. It's essential to inspect your windows regularly for signs of wear or damage and re-caulk as needed to maintain a watertight seal and prevent air leakage.

The urgency of a siding repair depends on the extent of the damage. While minor issues like small cracks or chips may not require immediate attention, significant damage such as extensive rot, water infiltration, or structural issues should be addressed promptly to prevent further damage to your home's exterior and potential issues with moisture intrusion. It's essential to have siding repairs done in a timely manner to maintain the integrity and appearance of your home.

Emergency services are typically not necessary for routine siding repairs or maintenance tasks. It's crucial to choose a reliable contractor and follow a well-planned approach for such projects. Emergency services would only be warranted in the event of sudden or significant damage, such as severe storms or structural issues, where immediate action is required to safeguard your property.

Highland Exteriors Group has an extensive safety training manual that is reviewed with all employees and tradesmen partners. Quarterly training sessions are handled in-house with all staff. Siding installers are required to follow strict safety protocols to ensure the well-being of themselves and others on the job site. Some of these protocols include:

1. Proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as hard hats, safety glasses, gloves, and steel-toed boots to minimize the risk of injury.

2. Adherence to ladder safety guidelines, including proper ladder placement, securing the ladder, and maintaining three points of contact while climbing.

3. Implementation of fall protection measures, such as the use of harnesses and guardrails when working at heights.

4. Awareness of electrical hazards and precautions when working near electrical lines or equipment.

5. Proper handling, storage, and maintenance of tools and equipment to prevent accidents and injuries.

6. Material safety including MSDS storage and review.

Highland Exteriors Group prioritizes safety and accountability in all our projects. Our comprehensive workers' compensation and umbrella insurance policies provide coverage for both our in-house employees and subcontractor partners. Additionally, we maintain high-dollar-limit general liability policies to ensure protection against any property damages that may occur during the course of our work. With these measures in place, we aim to provide peace of mind to our clients and maintain a safe working environment for everyone involved in our projects. We are happy to provide copies of our Certificate of Insurance (COI) as proof of valid insurance. 

It is important to note that if the injury resulted from negligence on the part of the homeowner, such as failure to warn the technician of known hazards, the homeowner could be held liable for damages. This liability might be covered by the homeowner's insurance policy.

Balcony waterproofing is a crucial process that involves applying specialized materials to protect the balcony structure from water damage. This involves sealing the balcony surface to prevent water infiltration, which can cause structural issues, mold growth, and other damage over time. By waterproofing the balcony, it ensures its longevity, durability, and structural integrity, even in harsh weather conditions.

In most situations, a temporary patch or repair is not viable or advisable. If a temporary patch can be provided it can help prevent further water intrusion while you arrange for permanent repairs. As a company policy, Highland Exteriors Group would only provide temporary patching (if feasible) for projects that are currently under contract for a full balcony waterproofing service.

Chimney refurbishment involves repairing, restoring, or upgrading a chimney to improve its structural integrity, functionality, and appearance. This process may include repairing damaged bricks or mortar, replacing deteriorated chimney caps or flashing, waterproofing the chimney to prevent water penetration, installing new liners or flue systems, and repointing mortar joints. The goal of chimney refurbishment is to ensure the chimney is safe, efficient, and aesthetically pleasing.

Submitting a claim to your insurance company for faulty siding or balcony depends on the specific circumstances of the damage, your insurance policy coverage, and the extent of the damage. In general, a typical Florida policy would dictate that the damage must come from a sudden loss (Tree falling, hurricane, tornado, flooding, etc.) and is significant enough to exceed your deductible. The Highland Exteriors Group team are NOT insurance experts so it is essential to review your policy terms and consult with your insurance provider to understand coverage limits, exclusions, and potential implications for future premiums. Additionally, documenting the damage with photos and obtaining professional assessments can support your claim process.

Vetting a siding contractor is crucial to ensure you hire a reputable and qualified professional for your project. Here are some steps to consider:

1. Research: Start by researching local siding contractors in your area. Look for companies with a solid reputation, positive reviews, and experience in siding installation and repairs.

2. Check Credentials: Verify that the contractor is licensed and insured. Contact the DBPR to verify license status. Also, check for certifications from siding manufacturers, as this demonstrates expertise and quality workmanship.

3. Get Multiple Quotes: Obtain quotes from multiple contractors to compare prices, services offered, and project timelines. Be wary of significantly low bids, as they may indicate subpar materials or workmanship.

4. Review Contracts Carefully: Once you've selected a contractor, review the contract thoroughly before signing. Ensure it includes details such as project scope, materials to be used, timeline, payment schedule, and warranty information.

5. Communication and Professionalism: Evaluate the contractor's communication style and professionalism during the initial consultation and throughout the project. A reliable contractor should be responsive, transparent, and easy to communicate with.

6. Warranty and Guarantee: Inquire about the contractor's warranty or guarantee for their work. A reputable contractor should stand behind their craftsmanship and offer a warranty that covers defects or issues that arise after the project is completed. Note that licensed general contractors are required to provide a 1 year warranty for all projects so do not accept anything less! Handymen or unlicensed professionals have no legal obligation to warrant work provided.

Synthetic fabric and liquid-applied waterproofing membranes are two different types of materials used for waterproofing applications:

Synthetic Fabric:

• Synthetic fabric, often referred to as a waterproofing membrane, is typically made of materials such as polyethylene or polypropylene. Most common brand is “Tyvek” which can be seen in most construction in Central Florida.

• It comes in the form of rolls or sheets and is applied over surfaces to create a barrier against moisture penetration.

• Installation involves placing the fabric over the substrate and securing it in place using adhesives, mechanical fasteners, or both.

• Once installed, the seams and overlaps are sealed to ensure a watertight seal.

Liquid Applied Waterproofing Membrane:

• Liquid-applied waterproofing membranes are liquid-based coatings that form a seamless, flexible membrane when applied to surfaces.

• These membranes are typically made from materials such as polyurethane, acrylics, or bitumen.

• Liquid-applied membranes are versatile and can be used on a variety of surfaces, including concrete, metal, wood, and masonry.

• They are applied using spray, brush, or roller methods, allowing for easy application to irregular surfaces and detailing.

• Once applied, the liquid membrane cures to form a durable, waterproof barrier that protects the underlying substrate from moisture intrusion.

In summary, while both synthetic fabric membranes and liquid-applied waterproofing membranes serve the purpose of preventing water ingress, they differ in their composition, application methods, and suitability for different types of surfaces and conditions. The choice between the two depends on factors such as project requirements, substrate characteristics, and the desired level of protection.

The difference between workmanship and manufacturer warranty lies in what each warranty covers:

Workmanship Warranty:

• A workmanship warranty, also known as an installation warranty, covers defects or issues arising from the installation process performed by the contractor.

• This type of warranty typically guarantees that the contractor's work will meet industry standards and be free from defects for a specified period after completion.

• Workmanship warranties vary in duration but commonly range from one to ten years, depending on the contractor and the nature of the work.

Manufacturer Warranty:

• A manufacturer warranty covers defects or issues related to the materials used in the project, such as siding, roofing materials, or waterproofing products.

• This warranty is provided by the manufacturer of the product and guarantees that the materials will perform as intended for a specified period.

• Manufacturer warranties can vary significantly in duration and coverage, ranging from a few years to several decades, depending on the product and manufacturer.

• Often, manufacturer warranties have high thresholds for coverage and should be assumed they will only apply in the most extreme circumstances.

"No Dollar Limit" (NDL) Warranties:

• Some manufacturer warranties, particularly those offered by reputable manufacturers for premium products, may include "no dollar limit" (NDL) coverage.

• NDL warranties provide comprehensive coverage for both materials and replacement costs without imposing a maximum dollar limit on claims.

• With NDL warranties, homeowners have the peace of mind that their investment is fully protected, as the warranty will cover the cost of materials and labor required to rectify any covered issues, regardless of the expense.

• These warranties offer an added layer of protection and assurance, ensuring that homeowners can address any unforeseen issues with their siding, roofing, or waterproofing systems without bearing the financial burden themselves.

In summary, while a workmanship warranty covers issues related to the installation process performed by the contractor, a manufacturer warranty covers defects or issues with the materials themselves. Both types of warranties provide assurance and protection to the homeowner, but they cover different aspects of the project.