PORT PERRY "WEEKEND STAR" FRIDAY, APRIL 14, 2000 - 3§ Steel eases stress of home maintenance Roofing One of the most common - and important - jobs home- owners can face is roof replacement or repairs. Roofing materials such as wood and shingles typically do not last as long as the average home, so most homeowners usually need to replace their roof at least once. Steel roofs typically last longer than 50 years, while roofs made from alternative materials such as asphalt often need replacement after 17 years. Aside from offering superi- or wind resistance and fire protection, a steel roof is resistant to decay, dis- colouring and mould. It also sheds snow easily. And unlike traditional roofing materials, steel will not rot or crack over the years as a result of the annual freeze- thaw cycle that homes in Canada must endure. In addition to their durabil- ity, steel roofs also come in a variety of colours, styles and textures that can add appeal and value to any home. Framing ° When it comes to framing, homeowners can often face problems like splintering, cracking or termites - even poor indoor air quality. Steel is a high strength material and steel studs, unlike traditional studs, are fastened with screws instead of nails. This pro- vides a positive mechanical connection that prevents screws from backing out over the life of the home and helps the steel joists, walls and roof stand up to high winds without coming loose or vibrating. Steel frames resist fire and corrosion, and will not warp, twist, split, rot or set- tle the way wood does over time. Quality steel framing stays straight and true and prevents costly air leaks that lead to mould growth and affect the air quality of a home. In addition, steel does not need to be treat- ed with chemicals or toxic substances to protect it from termites or other ver- min, like wood usually requires which compounds the problem of poor indoor air quality. Doors and Door Frames Because of their many ben- efits, steel doors and door frames are now being rec- ognized as a smart and attractive choice for new and existing homes. Homeowners are discover- ing steel's dependability, safety and value. Unlike wood, doors and frames made of steel are extreme- ly durable and won't shrink, sag, warp or rot, even in high-moisture regions. And when it comes to safety and security, a steel door pro- vides up to 10 times more strength and protection against breakins than wood. Steel is also fire- proof, so that steel doors and frames can protect "against the spread of fire. Insulated steel doors also save homeowners money by minimizing air infiltra- tion and energy loss between the door's interior and exterior surfaces. Eavestroughs and Downspouts Eye-pleasing steel eave- stroughs and downspouts also provide strength and durability. Unlike alu- minum models, steel troughs don't bend, so they can support the weight of an average person on a lad- der - or the weight of a heavy snowfall. They also save homeowners precious weekend hours, because their sturdy pre-painted exteriors do not require time-consuming touchups. "SPRING SALE TO RED TA SAVE UP TO *1,230° Start at Sis lelalts Toro® Wheel Horse® Lawn and Garden Tractors * Liquid cooled and diesel engines available : * Power steering, cruise control optional * Snowthrower, tiller, dozer blade attachments available QCA Grd Traci with Tor > =F exclusive Smart Turn™ technology Choose a Finance Package! * No Payments, No Interest until October 2000** * 0% interest for 24 months** " Toro® Recycler® Lawn Mower * Personal Pace® models available « Patented Recycler mower technology e 10 year starting guarantee available * 2 or 5 year total coverage warranty Toro's revolutionary new Personal Pace® Self-Propel System, ; allows you to mow as Si slow or as fast as you : like - it's up to you - just walk and it goes. yy SL LAWN & GARDEN & SLED 985-9909 * Savings based on 523Dxi garden tractor with 60" deck. The difirence between regular price and promotion price equals $1230.00 **OAC, see dealers for details. Pictures may differ from original items. 62000 The Toro Company. up, these models feature increased horsepower, | "heavy-duty construction and | | easy operation. 5 | The B2710/B2910 have |= cruise control, high-perfor- | mance power steering; a | strong front loader and increased hydraulic efficien- | cy. All combined a a com-. VALLANCE EQUIPMENT & RENTAL MEME a dl. Bro { Kin