learn expert advice on roofing, home improvement, and tips to keep your home in top shape.

Are Gutter Guards Worth It for Pacific Northwest Homes?

by Kelsi Waible | Sept 25, 2026 | Gutters

Most "are gutter guards worth it" articles are written for homeowners dealing with broad autumn leaves and a handful of hard rains a year. That's not what a Clark County or Multnomah County roofline actually deals with. Portland's urban tree canopy covers roughly a third of the city, and a big share of that is conifer — Douglas fir, western red cedar, hemlock — dropping fine, needle-shaped debris nearly year-round rather than one leaf-fall event in October.

Roof Inspection Checklist: What to Check Before Winter Hits

by Kelsi Waible | Sept 22, 2026 | Roofing

Start outside, with your feet on the ground and a pair of binoculars if you have them. You're looking for a handful of specific things, in roughly the order they tend to show up. Shingles are the first thing to scan for. Look for any that are missing outright, cracked, or curling up at the edges — curling is often an early sign of age or heat damage rather than storm damage, and it's worth noting even if nothing looks dramatic yet.

Vancouver, WA Exterior Remodel: James Hardie Siding, Milgard Windows & More

by Kelsi Waible | April 4, 2026 | Exterior Remodeling

When a Vancouver, WA homeowner wanted to stop patching problems and start investing in real, lasting protection for their home, they called Journeyman Exteriors. What followed was a complete exterior overhaul — new James Hardie fiber cement siding, Milgard Tuscany V400 replacement windows, premium exterior paint, and a thorough gutter cleaning — all completed by one trusted local team.

How to Evaluate Storm Damage to Your Roof: A Homeowner’s Guide After Heavy Wind, Rain, or Hail

by Kelsi Waible | December 9, 2025 | Roofing

Heavy wind, rain, and hailstorms are becoming increasingly common in the Pacific Northwest. Even a single storm can loosen shingles, damage gutters, and create leaks that may not show up right away. The faster homeowners can identify signs of storm damage, the easier—and cheaper—it is to repair. This guide walks you through what to look for after a storm and when it’s time to call a trusted roofing professional for a full evaluation.

Everything You Should Know About DECRA Metal Roofing

by Kelsi Waible | September 29, 2025 | Roofing

When it’s time to replace your roof, the choices can feel overwhelming. Asphalt shingles? Slate? Tile? One option that’s often overlooked—but deserves serious consideration—is DECRA metal roofing. If you’re curious whether it’s a smart fit for your home, read on. We’ll walk you through what DECRA is, why homeowners choose it, what to expect cost-wise, and how to make sure you get a quality installation (with us, of course).

The Real Reason to Replace Your Old Aluminum Windows

by Kelsi Waible | June 24, 2025 | Windows

It’s not just about the drafts—here’s what your old windows aren’t telling you. If your home still has its original aluminum windows, you’re not alone—but you are missing out on a huge opportunity to improve your home’s comfort, efficiency, and value. Journeyman Exteriors makes window replacement easy. We handle everything from helping you choose the right windows to professional installation—no stress, no mess, and no cutting corners.

Expert Roof Repairs & Replacements – Protect Your Home This Winter

by Kelsi Waible | November 25, 2024 | Roofing

Winter is tough on roofs, and small issues can quickly turn into major headaches when snow, ice, and rain arrive. At Journeyman Exteriors, we don’t just inspect your roof – we deliver lasting solutions with expert repairs and full roof replacements that protect your home and add value. If your roof needs serious attention, now is the time to act. Don’t wait for winter storms to make things worse – call us today to get your project started!

WINDOWS 101: UNDERSTANDING ENERGY RATINGS AND EFFICIENCY LABELS

by Kelsi Waible | July 1, 2024 | Windows

Windows are more than just openings to the outside world; they are vital components of your home’s energy efficiency. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your existing windows or installing new ones, understanding energy ratings and efficiency labels can help you make informed decisions. At Journeyman Exteriors, we believe in providing our customers with the knowledge they need to choose the best products for their homes.

DIY VS PROFESSIONAL WINDOW INSTALLATION, WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOw

by Kelsi Waible | May 8, 2024 | Windows

If you're considering upgrading your home with new windows, you've likely come across the debate between tackling the installation yourself or hiring a professional. Both options have their merits, but it's essential to understand the differences before making a decision. In this post, we'll explore the pros and cons of DIY window installation versus professional services to help you determine the best approach for your home.

5 WARNING SIGNS OF A ROOFING SCAM AND HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF

by Kelsi Waible | March 14, 2024 | Roofing

As a homeowner, one of the most significant investments you'll make is in your roof. Unfortunately, there are unscrupulous individuals and companies out there looking to take advantage of unsuspecting homeowners with roofing scams. To protect yourself and your investment, it's essential to be aware of the warning signs of a roofing scam. In this article, we will go over 5 warning signs of a roofing scam and how to protect yourself.

MEET OUR MASCOT, QC CLUTCH - THE PAWSITIVELY ADORABLE QUALITY CONTROL INSPECTOR

by Kelsi Waible | May 9, 2023 | About Us

At Journeyman Exteriors, we not only prioritize quality in our siding, roofing, and windows but have a four-legged expert to ensure it—QC Clutch! This Pitbull powerhouse is not just a cuddly face; he's an essential member of our team, overseeing our quality control processes. In this blog post, get ready to fall in love with QC Clutch and discover how he brings a whole new meaning to the term "Quality Control".

WHAT MATERIAL IS THE BEST FOR YOUR NEW ROOF?

by Kelsi Waible | Jan 31, 2023 | Roofing

Choosing the right roofing material is a significant decision for homeowners, impacting the durability, energy efficiency, and aesthetics of their homes. With a variety of options available, each with its own set of advantages, finding the best material for your new roof requires careful consideration. In this blog post, we'll explore popular roofing materials and their key features to help you make an informed decision for your home.