We've built our reputation as a leader through the quality of our workmanship, but also through the knowledge of our people. When you deal with the Olsen team, you're dealing with experience.

The Olsen team includes over 100 people knowledgeable about homes, but the faces you see here are some of the ones you're most likely to see first when you contact Olsen Home Exteriors. This team has over 150 years collective experience in the business - if you have a question about an exterior renovation materials or services, this is the place to ask!

Follow these links to ask a question or to see answers to the most commonly asked questions about renovation:

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(One of our Experts will reply via email)

What's the best time of year to have my house sided?

These days, siding can be installed year-round. A proper siding job includes the installation of an air barrier underneath the new siding. The air barrier can be installed quickly and will provide adequate protection against the elements for the remaining time it takes to apply the new siding.

Are more expensive shingles really worth it?

Yes, we think they are. Your roof is exposed to the elements all day, every day. Paying a bit more today to get heavier shingles that will better protect your home is an investment you can amortize over the next 25 or 35 years.

What does the R-value of a home mean?

The R-value of a home refers to its resistance to heat flow. The higher the R-value of a material, the more it insulates. The higher the R-values of the materials used, the more energy efficient your home will be.

Can I have new windows installed in the winter?

Yes! Professional installers can perform window installations all year-round. By tackling one window at a time, and installing a temporary barrier for the short time it takes to prepare and install the new window after removing the old, installers can minimize your home's exposure to the elements.

Why do I need to add more ventilation to my home?

Proper ventilation of your attic area is essential to get the maximum life out of your roofing materials. Improper ventilation can lead to problems like ice build up, or your roof deck shifting. Older homes may not be ventilated to current building code requirements.

What is an "architectural" shingle?

An architectural shingle is more upscale than a traditional 3-tab shingle. It has a greater dimensional thickness and "shadowbands", for example, which give it the appearance of a wood shake.

Why is the age of my home a factor in providing an estimate?

We always like to consider the age of your home when providing an estimate, because it gives us information about what we should expect when we do a job. Many of today's construction techniques may have been unheard of at the time your home was built. Keeping this in mind, we can, for example, check for the presence of insulation between your windows and house frame, or inspect closely for exterior wall damage where there may not have been an air barrier under your siding.

What's more expensive - brick or high end siding?

Brick or stone are the most expensive exterior finishes you can put on your home, but they will require less maintenance over the life of the home, and will command higher resale values.

Can I see samples of the products I am selecting for my home?

Certainly! We know it's hard to choose styles and colours from a brochure, so we have samples of most products available in our 3186 Carp Road Sales Centre. If we don't have the product you want to see, we'll get it in from the manufacturer.

How can I get condensation out of my windows?

We don't believe you can - properly and permanently. Condensation is a sign that the seal has broken. While there are some companies out there offering "defogging" services for windows, we believe that only replacing your windows will guarantee a solution to the problem.