How to Lay Residential Driveway Pavers

driveway paving

A residential driveway paver project is an excellent way to boost your home’s curb appeal and increase its value. However, there are a few considerations before making a final decision. These include the type of paver, color, laying pattern, and design. Let’s dive into each one of these factors to make a more informed choice. Visit https://drivewaypavingcharleston.com/ to talk to a professional.

driveway paving

The type of pavers you install for your driveway will directly impact how well the surface ages, wears, and responds to snow, rain, and other environmental factors. Whether you are choosing concrete, clay, or natural stone, each material has unique qualities and benefits that can change how your driveway looks and feels.

For instance, brick and concrete pavers are very durable and have a lot of design flexibility. They also tend to have a much longer lifespan than cobblestones, though the latter can be very attractive and provide an elegant look that’s hard to beat. However, they are typically more expensive than other options.

If you are concerned about environmental issues, a permeable paver solution might be the right choice. This material allows water to flow through rather than pool, relieving flooding concerns in the area and helping preserve the natural groundwater supply.

Many types of pavers are available, including brick, concrete, cobblestones, flagstones, and resin-bound surfacing. Bluestone pavers are incredibly beautiful and highly durable but are also one of the most costly options. Resin-bonded paving offers an alternative that’s affordable, long-lasting, and easy to maintain. It requires no regular resealing but needs to be jet-washed occasionally to keep it looking pristine.

Choosing the right type of pavers is important to ensure that they can withstand the environmental conditions in your region and the amount of traffic you plan to have on your driveway. It’s also important to think about your home’s design and how the pavers’ color and texture will work with it.

The most common paver materials for residential driveways include concrete, clay, and natural stone. Concrete is usually the cheapest option, but it may crack over time, especially if you need better-quality concrete pavers. Clay brick pavers offer a middle-of-the-road price point, while natural stone is the most expensive but also offers a beauty that other materials can’t match.

There are many options for paver colors, from classic, gentle, and subdued to contemporary, strong, and sophisticated. Pavers allow you to customize the look, unlike asphalt or concrete, which typically only come in one shade.

The first step in selecting the perfect paver color is to consider the exterior design of your home. Try not to go too matchy-matchy, but choose hues that harmonize with the overall look of your house. For example, if your house has navy vinyl siding, choose pavers in shades of blue and grays that will complement it nicely.

In addition to the exterior design of your home, you need to consider what you plan to use your pavers for. For example, if you add a pool deck, choose pavers with a cool hue like blues, whites, and grays to help keep the area cool. On the other hand, if you are creating a backyard entertainment area for your red brick rancher, opt for warm-colored pavers like browns and oranges to bring warmth and energy to the space.

Additionally, consider choosing a smooth surface to prevent trips and falls if you use your paving stones for walkways. You can also line them with textured pavers to add contrast and visual interest. However, if you are creating a driveway, you should select pavers with rough or jagged surfaces that will provide traction and reduce the need for mowing and snow shoveling in the winter.

Lastly, remember that paver colors can change depending on the sunlight they receive. Be sure to evaluate the blush of your pavers in direct sunshine, filtered sunlight, and even at night when they are exposed to outdoor lighting.

Many types of stone pavers exist, including slate, flagstone, cobblestone, bluestone, and travertine. They come in various shapes and sizes and can be cut into blocks or arranged to create a pattern. While these pavers are more expensive than other types of paving, they offer a unique look and require little maintenance compared to concrete or asphalt. Stone pavers do well in most climates but are less suited for areas that experience frequent freeze/thaw cycles.

Pavers are not only available in different colors, but they can also be shaped in several ways. It can help the pavers complement or blend in with your landscape and home design while also helping to make the driveway feel more organic and natural instead of a flat slab of concrete. One of the best ways to do this is by laying the pavers in a herringbone or staggered brick pattern. It applies them in a way that provides stronger interlock and helps to prevent them from shifting over time. It is especially important when laying a permeable paver driveway that allows rainwater to drain through the surface and into the aggregate base below. It reduces the amount of water that can build up in the driveway and prevents pollutants from being washed into local lakes or rivers.

When deciding what type of paver to use, it is also important to consider how the color and texture of the material will hold up over time. Some pavers, like travertine and sandstone, have a more natural stone look that can work well with older-style homes. These materials are also durable and offer various color tones and textures. They are also highly forgiving regarding oil spills, tire marks, and other common stains that might happen on a residential driveway.

Other pavers, such as clay or fired-clay pavers, can be more suited to modern homes. It is because they are made from a non-porous material that resists stains and doesn’t absorb moisture. They are also much easier to clean than a porous paver that can easily soak up stains and bacteria from oil spills and other colors.

Some pavers can create a focal point at the entrance of your driveway or the garage apron. These pavers often have a cleft finish that resembles the cobbled streets of Old World cities and provide a classic driveway design. Alternatively, pavers shaped like squares or rectangles can be laid in a fan or Romanesque pattern to add contemporary flair. A circle kit can create a circular pattern at the driveway’s entrance for a unique feature.

Your driveway is more than a place to park your car; it’s a space that connects the front of your house with the rest of your landscape. The right pavers and laying pattern can transform your driveway into an outdoor statement piece that turns heads and inspires conversation.

Before starting on your driveway, you must lay the base and create a drainage system. Depending on your project, you should also include an absorbent paver option that helps alleviate your neighborhood’s stormwater issues by allowing the natural ground to absorb the rainfall.

When choosing your paving stones, consider how the color and laying pattern will work with other aspects of your landscape. For example, if you have a lot of greenery around your home, you can add a border that ties in the colors and shapes of the pavers with the plants. You can even use a wall of different materials to create an eye-catching contrast.

Many paving stone patterns can create a stunning paved surface for your residential driveway. One popular choice is running bond, which consists of bricks laid side by side. It’s simple to apply and requires less cutting, reducing the installation cost. Running bond also creates strong linear lines that can make your patio look longer or wider, depending on the direction of the layout. Another paving pattern that has been used for a long time is herringbone, which incorporates V-shaped lines and adds visual interest to your patio. Herringbone is also the best paving stone pattern for residential driveways, as it provides an interlock that helps prevent pavers from shifting under heavy traffic.

If you’re looking for something more unique, try using two different paving stones with the same shape and size to create a checkerboard or zig-zag pattern. The possibilities are endless, especially when working with our Sleek pavers, which are large and stately and offer a canvas that can be arranged into a variety of geometrical designs. If you’re feeling creative, try playing with your Sleek pavers’ angles and contrasting colors to create a custom-made scenario that will wow.

HVAC Services

HVAC Services

HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning) systems move breathable air between indoor and outdoor spaces. They also filter and clean that air to keep you comfortable, safe, and healthy.HVAC Services

HVAC technicians at Pro Master Heating & Air Conditioning installs, repairs, and sells maintenance contracts for heating, and ventilation systems. They also consult with clients to gather information and provide estimates for service.

The installation of HVAC systems involves a complex, time-consuming process that takes a lot of skill and precision. HVAC contractors are trained to assess a home or business and determine the type of system that will best meet the owner’s needs, taking into account factors like airflow, energy efficiency, and occupant comfort. A new system may also involve the installation of ducts, pipes, wires, and other necessary equipment.

Some homeowners will choose to replace their entire HVAC system with a new one. This is generally a good idea if the existing system is old and not operating effectively anymore. A new system will ensure that the home or business is well insulated and that the indoor air quality is high enough to be healthy for the occupants.

Typically, HVAC professionals will provide consultations to help homeowners decide which system is right for them. They will assess the space, measure the area to be covered, and discuss any concerns or special requirements that might need to be addressed. They will then give the homeowner a quote based on their assessment and the system that they recommend.

Once the contract is signed, the installer will begin work on the installation. They will take care to minimize the amount of noise they make and the space they take up and will try to cause as little disruption to the household as possible. They will remove the existing system and install the new one, ensuring everything is working correctly and that the house’s occupants are comfortable.

In addition to heating and cooling, HVAC companies may offer additional services like ventilation, which distributes air throughout a home or business, humidifiers, which adjust the humidity level, and air purifiers that filter out allergens, dust, and other particles. Depending on the size of the system, these extras can add to the total cost.

Some HVAC companies will offer in-house financing, which can be a great way to get the system that you need without having to pay for it outright. However, it is important to understand the terms and conditions of this type of financing before signing up for it. A high interest rate can quickly turn a small sum into a large debt that will take a long time to pay off.

Repair

When a problem occurs with your home air conditioning or heating system, you want to have it fixed as quickly and efficiently as possible. A professional technician will be able to diagnose the issue and determine the best course of action to fix it.

Repairs can be as simple as replacing a filter or as complex as a compressor replacement. Some HVAC technicians are able to perform all of the required repairs in one visit, but others will need to order parts and return at a later date. A qualified AC repair company will be able to tell you how long it will take to get your system up and running again.

Regular HVAC maintenance can help reduce operating costs, improve occupant comfort and health, and extend the life of the equipment. Most manufacturers recommend routine service twice per year. During this service, an experienced technician will clean the unit, inspect it for problems and make any necessary repairs.

In addition to regular maintenance, you can save energy and money by lowering your thermostat by a few degrees when you are sleeping or away from home. Using a programmable thermostat to control the temperature can also cut your energy costs.

A clogged or dirty air filter restricts the flow of air through your system, causing it to work harder. It’s important to change the filter often, and you should have your air ducts cleaned periodically as well.

HVAC efficiency is the ability of a system to produce the same amount of cooling or heating with less energy. It’s a key factor in reducing energy consumption and emissions. Many HVAC systems can be made more efficient by adjusting the airflow, sealing ductwork, and installing new programmable thermostats.

If you have any questions about HVAC services, please don’t hesitate to contact the professionals at Brothers Supply Corporation. We have years of experience and will ensure your system is running properly and efficiently. Our skilled technicians are fully licensed, insured and adhere to strict safety requirements, so you can rest assured your system is in good hands.

Maintenance

HVAC services include the construction, installation and servicing of heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems and equipment. They organize the regulation of temperature in homes, commercial buildings, airports, hospitals, hotels and many other types of structures. This is done by using heating or cooling systems, wall and ceiling ducts, ventilation fans, and other devices that circulate hot or cold air throughout the building.

Many HVAC professionals offer a wide range of services, although some may specialize in one type of system or another. They also may provide consulting services on ways to save energy and money, especially when it comes to improving insulation and weatherizing a structure. This is a field that requires a fair amount of physical labor, as HVAC technicians must lift heavy equipment and work at heights. They also need to be comfortable working in confined spaces, as they often need to crawl around in air ducts, vents and other areas where the equipment is located.

Most people think of HVAC services when they have a problem with their heating or cooling system, but these contractors can also perform routine maintenance on a home or commercial building. This can help prolong the lifespan of the equipment, and it can ensure that the system runs properly, which in turn can cut down on energy costs. Some routine maintenance tasks that a technician may complete include changing the air filter to prevent dust and debris from entering the system; cleaning the evaporator coils to prevent mold build up; checking for any signs of leakage or other issues, such as strange sounds or odors; and testing the thermostat to make sure it is functioning correctly.

When selecting an HVAC company or contractor, it is important to find out if they are licensed and insured. You should also check for customer reviews and recommendations from friends, neighbors, or local home improvement businesses. You should also compare prices between companies to find the best deal. Some companies offer service plans, which can help to minimize expensive repairs and avoid breakdowns.

A good way to keep your HVAC system running smoothly is to sign up for a service plan with a trusted company like Stan’s. Service plan members can get two precision system tune-ups per year to catch problems early, and they can save 15% on all repair costs.

Replacement

If your HVAC system is nearing the end of its lifespan, a replacement may be worth considering. A new unit will typically cost more than repairing an old one, but it is often more efficient and less likely to break down in the future. It can also save you money on energy bills. Some homeowners choose to replace their HVAC systems with newer models that have a higher SEER rating and are Energy Star-certified. This will help them save even more on utility costs.

During an HVAC replacement, a technician will inspect and measure your home to determine the correct size of equipment. They will then remove the existing unit, install the new one, and update or replace ductwork, piping, and wiring as needed. They will also perform a final inspection to make sure everything is working properly.

When choosing an HVAC contractor to complete your installation, be sure to compare quotes from several different companies. This will help you scope out your budget and encourage contractors to be competitive with pricing. It is also a good idea to ask for proof of licensing and insurance before hiring a contractor to ensure that they are qualified to work on your home improvement project.

Routine maintenance is the best way to avoid costly repair bills and keep your home comfortable. Most HVAC companies charge a flat fee for routine maintenance, which usually includes cleaning and inspecting your heating, cooling, and ventilation systems. They will also help you understand your system and provide tips for keeping it running at peak efficiency.

While some HVAC tasks are easy enough for the average homeowner to do themselves, repairs and installations are generally better left to the pros. In addition to being able to work safely around the equipment, professional technicians have access to industry-leading tools and parts, which can speed up the process and increase the chances of a successful outcome.

Most mechanical installations require a permit and an inspection to make sure the job is done correctly. If a contractor is reluctant to file for a permit, this could be a red flag that they are not qualified to do the work. In addition, it is important to check a company’s online reviews and accreditations before hiring them.

How to Keep Your Concrete Looking New

concrete maintenance

Concrete is one of the most durable materials available, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t require maintenance. A professional Concrete Contractors Colorado Springs with experience should design major structural repairs.

Cleaning a concrete surface helps it retain its beauty. A power wash can remove oil, grease, and chemical de-icer stains. Impressed current cathodic protection (ICCP) can control corrosion long-term and eliminate the need for patch repair.

Water

The amount of water in concrete plays a significant role in its fresh and hardened properties including workability, compressive strength, permeability and water tightness, durability, and weathering. Excessive amounts of water in concrete can result in surface degradation or deterioration which may require extensive concrete repair.

Natural elements that can cause water damage to concrete include rain and seismic soil movement. Leaking pipes that are not repaired promptly can also lead to major structural damage to a concrete foundation. Often, the first sign of a leak is visible water spots on or around the concrete. These spots are not only unsightly, but they also indicate the presence of mold spores that may have been able to grow within the cracks of the concrete and cause further damage.

Cracks in concrete are common and can be caused by a number of factors, such as shrinkage, tension, compression and chemical reactions. Cracks that are left unrepaired can lead to further degradation of the concrete and a safety hazard for people and vehicles. Anderson has a wide range of procedures to repair cracks in concrete to minimize the amount of damage that can occur to a structure or building.

It is important to note that a cracked slab of concrete can be subject to additional damage from various elements such as tree roots and chemical spills. These additional damages can make the existing cracks in the concrete even larger and more likely to deteriorate.

Whether a slab of concrete is new or old, it should always be protected with a concrete sealer. A quality sealant will keep the pores of the concrete closed and protect it from weather damage, stains and UV rays. Concrete should be sealed once every two to five years for optimal results.

Using shotcrete to apply concrete to vertical surfaces is a quick and cost effective method of resurfacing large areas of concrete structures, such as warehouse floors, parking garages, and sidewalks. Our experienced concrete professionals use a dustless, grit-blasting technique that reduces cleanup time, increases efficiency, and provides for long lasting results.

Tree Roots

Trees provide wonderful shade, color in the fall, and character to your yard. However, they can also cause major homeowner headaches, especially when their roots encroach on concrete sidewalk slabs, driveways, patios, and slab homes. These roots can lift and crack these surfaces, resulting in unsightly and expensive repairs.

The main function of a tree’s root system is to anchor the tree and absorb water, minerals, and nutrients from the soil. These roots are generally more like a web than a rope, and they take up about as much space as the canopy of the tree above them. These roots are often seen as a nuisance by homeowners, but they are necessary to the health of a tree.

Roots can also be used to protect a tree from wind and snow damage, by keeping it in place during these weather events. Generally, it is best to leave the roots of a tree alone, and avoid covering them with concrete, as this can lead to death. If you have a large tree in your yard, and its roots are causing problems, a trained arborist can recommend solutions such as root barriers or root pruning to manage the roots.

A homeowner’s biggest concern when dealing with encroaching tree roots is that the roots can break concrete slabs. This is most commonly the case with concrete sidewalk slabs, which can be lifted and cracked by a root’s growth. This results in tripping hazards and unsightly cracks in the sidewalk. These can be costly to repair, and may even require removal of the tree.

While this is certainly a serious problem, it can be avoided with proper plant selection and care. When planting a new tree, it’s recommended that you do so at least 10 feet away from any existing concrete structures such as sidewalks or paved areas. This will ensure that the tree has enough room to grow without encroaching on these structures. It’s also important to make sure that the ground under a slab foundation is properly compacted, and that it’s not overly saturated with water. This will prevent the soil from slumping and creating pressure against the foundation of a home, which can be caused by tree roots trying to seek out water underneath.

Algae

Algae are microscopic organisms that thrive in damp, cool conditions and can quickly discolor concrete. They can also cause a slippery surface and be a health hazard to humans who walk on them. They can be very difficult to remove without a pressure washer. However, if you have one, you can use it to remove the algae and make your concrete look like new. To avoid algae from forming on your concrete in the first place, you should keep it as dry as possible. You can do this by not letting it get wet or by washing it frequently with your power washer.

You can also treat your concrete with cleaning chemicals. Look for nontoxic cleaners, such as oxygen bleach, to kill the growth and prevent it from returning. When using this solution, be sure to wear rubber gloves and goggles to protect your eyes. Be sure to test any cleaning products on a small area before applying them to the entire surface. Then, treat the concrete with the cleaning solution biweekly until the algae is gone.

All algae are photosynthetic, converting light from the sun into chemical energy. They have a special pigment called chlorophyll a, b, and c, which gives them their green color. Some algae also have other accessory pigments that camouflage the green color or give them other colors, such as red, brown, or yellow.

Although they are similar to plants, algae differ in that they lack certain general characteristics such as stems and vascular tissues to transport water and nutrients throughout their bodies. However, they do have a lot in common with land plants.

While they can grow on any type of surface, algae prefer shady and moist areas. This makes them a common sight near pools, lakes, and rivers. Algae can also be found in many houses, including basements and garages.

To remove algae, you can mix a quarter cup of bleach with a gallon of hot or warm water and scrub the spot with a hard bristle brush. You can also try using a specialized oxidizing bleach, which uses hydrogen peroxide or sodium percarbonate to eliminate the organic material without harming concrete.

Oils and Fluids

Oils and fluids are a natural part of our daily lives, but if they come into contact with concrete, unsightly and permanent stains can result. Concrete is alkaline by nature, but it also has tiny pores and cracks in which oils penetrate, then combine with water molecules to form acids that eat away at the concrete. This is why coating concrete exposed to oil is necessary, especially in structures that handle the storage, transport and processing of oils.

Oil stains can be very difficult to remove, especially in deep spots where they’ve been soaking into the concrete for a long time. Regular cleaning with soap and water is usually sufficient to lift some of the surface oil, but will not remove all of it. The best way to address oil stains is to use any of the clear penetrating sealers that simply do not allow the oil to soak into the concrete. These are easy to apply and very affordable, but you must follow the instructions on the label closely. For example, they generally require that the air and surface temperatures be above certain minimums in order for them to work.

Edible and technical vegetable oils constantly fall on concrete and reinforced concrete structures, impregnating them. These oils contain high molecular weight fatty acids that destroy cement stone and concrete. Fatty acids are saponified under the action of calcium oxide, forming alcohols and fatty acid salts that attack concrete.

According to researchers at RUDN University, in the case of vegetable oil the penetration of these compounds into concrete causes its destruction in 90 days. To protect concrete against the aggressive effect of vegetable oils, scientists are developing new types of admixtures.

One solution to the problem of removing oil stains from concrete is the application of a poultice. This involves saturating an absorptive material such as sawdust, kitty litter, pool filter media or plastic sheeting with a solvent (acetone, xylene, lacquer thinner) and then smearing the saturated material over the oil stain. The osmosis process will then suck the oil from the concrete. This method is very effective, but is labor intensive and may not be practical for large areas of concrete.

Roofing: The Process of Designing, Installing, and Maintaining a Roof

Roofing

Roofs protect a structure from weather elements like rain, snow, and sunlight. Colorado Springs Roofing are the process of designing, installing, and maintaining the roof.Roofing

Roofs are constantly subjected to the elements, and the materials used to cover them have a major impact on how well the structure holds up under these conditions. Choosing the right roofing materials can help a builder or contractor meet client needs and specifications such as cost, endurance, and aesthetics. These materials also need to be able to support the weight of all the other structural elements that will be built on top of them.

The most commonly used residential roofing material is asphalt shingles. They are available in a range of colors and styles that can give a property a distinctive look. Other roofing materials include wood, tin, and clay tiles. Some newer roofing materials incorporate solar panels or even wind turbines to harness energy and create more environmentally friendly buildings.

For commercial buildings, flat roofing is common, and a wide variety of materials are available to protect it. Membrane roofing is a popular choice, with options including polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or thermoset single-ply membranes. These are made from synthetic rubber polymers designed to minimize seams in large roof areas. Some of these are also resistant to degradation from chemicals, ozone, and UV radiation.

Roofing insulation is a vital part of a roof system, helping to keep the building cooler in summer and warmer in winter. Roofing contractors can advise on the best types of insulation for a given climate and ensure it is installed correctly to maximize its benefits. Insulation can also help prevent serious damage from extreme weather, such as hail and high winds.

Installation

When roofing is installed correctly, it protects the interior of a home from rain, snow, wind, sunlight, and other elements. It also adds to the value of a house.

The first step in the roof installation process is to waterproof the valleys. These areas where the slopes meet and form a “V” shape are particularly susceptible to leaks but can be protected with underlayment or felt paper. This also helps maintain or improve the fire rating of the roof and may be required by building codes in some areas.

Once the underlayment is in place, the shingles can be installed. This is a labor-intensive job and requires a strong ladder to reach the roof. If you’re considering doing the work yourself, be sure to choose sturdy footwear with thick soles that will protect your feet from any stray nails that fall to the ground. It’s also a good idea to have someone steady the ladder while you work.

Proper ventilation of a roof is essential to protect the insulation and wood structure from damage as well as control the temperature in a house. Ridge vents, soffit vents, and other types of vents can be installed to allow air to flow through the roof into interior spaces.

Maintenance

The maintenance procedures must be tailored to the needs of the specific roof. However, basic maintenance items should include keeping the roof free of debris (this is especially important in buildings with a vegetative covering such as cut turf or grass; modern versions are known as “green roofs,” traditional ones as “sod roofs”). Debris blocking drain lines restricts drainage and accelerates membrane deterioration; in extreme cases, localized ponding of water can prematurely damage a roof system.

Regular inspections should be conducted by trained roofing professionals to determine roof conditions and identify any areas requiring immediate or future repair. This should be done on a monthly basis or at least each season in geographic locations that experience extreme weather variations. This allows for early problem detection and reduces costly emergency repairs and interior damage to finishes.

A housekeeping survey should be conducted on most roof areas on a monthly basis to keep drainage devices open. This should be augmented at times of the year when additional cleaning is required due to increased precipitation or a buildup of materials such as ice dams. The survey should be incorporated into a facility maintenance schedule and the results documented. Typical in-house mechanics can perform the housekeeping surveys, but any specialization, extensive repairs, or roofs under warranty should be contracted to a roofing professional.

Some roofs are covered with a layer of felt that provides an insulating layer and prevents the penetration of water into the building structure. Felt also maintains or increases a roof’s fire rating, which is a requirement for some facilities and buildings. Depending on the type of roof and the fire requirements, several different types of felt may be used.

Repairs

The best way to figure out if your roof needs to be up-to-code is to examine it inside and out. Get up into the attic or crawlspace (wherever you can access it) and take pictures of every part of your roof. Look for damp stains and rust, as well as any evidence of standing water. Check the ceilings and beams, too, for mold or rot; these are red alert signs that you should repair your roof before they spread.

And don’t forget to replace or repair flashing, the material around chimneys and where roofing planes meet; if that’s not replaced in time, it can lead to leaks. Ask your roofing professional about energy-efficiency rebates available in your area. These can offset some of the upfront costs.

What Mortgage Lenders Look For in a Buyer

Loans

Boise Mortgage Companies provide home loans to help buyers buy a property. They may be banks, credit unions, or online lenders.

LoansWhen choosing a lender, compare loan programs and terms like mortgage rates, interest rate APRs, upfront fees and closing costs. Also, consider how a lender treats credit-challenged borrowers. This can make a big difference in your mortgage experience.

Credit Score

If you’re shopping for a mortgage, it’s important to know that the credit score mortgage lenders use may be different from the scores you see in your personal finance apps or on your credit card statements. The reason for this is that mortgage lenders will typically pull a “tri-merge” report, which consists of credit reports from all three major bureaus – Experian, Equifax and TransUnion. These credit reports are then used to generate a “Qualifying Credit Score” for mortgage applicants.

What’s more, the credit scoring model used by your lender can also vary. While all of the credit scores produced by the bureaus come from the same company (FICO), different scoring models weigh factors differently. For example, the FICO 8 model is known for being more critical of high balances on revolving accounts. While this is a good thing for consumers, it can hurt mortgage borrowers whose credit utilization ratio is too high.

The scoring model used by your mortgage lender will be one of the most important factors in determining whether you’re approved for a loan and what kind of terms you can get. While it’s important to have a good credit score, you can still qualify for a mortgage even if your score isn’t great – just be prepared to put more money down or pay higher interest rates.

To determine your qualifying credit score, most mortgage lenders will take the middle score of the tri-merge report. The mortgage lender will then use that score throughout the mortgage process. This process differs from conventional mortgages backed by Fannie Mae, which use the median score of all borrowers on the loan application.

While you can request a copy of your credit report from each of the three major credit reporting agencies for free (due to the COVID-19 pandemic, you can only receive a report from one of the bureaus per year), most mortgage lenders will use the tri-merge report to determine your qualifying score. If you’re applying for a mortgage jointly with someone else, the mortgage lender will average the median score of all borrowers.

Down Payment

A down payment is an upfront portion of the home purchase price paid by the buyer with cash. The rest of the cost is covered by a mortgage loan, which is paid back monthly along with interest. A down payment is usually required by most lenders, and the size of it influences the terms of the mortgage.

A large down payment may reduce the number of months required to pay off the debt and it can lower the interest rate you pay. For this reason, many homebuyers spend time saving for a down payment. They create a budget, scrimp where they can and try to put any extra money (like birthday card cash or work bonuses) toward the down payment.

The size of your down payment may also be influenced by whether this will be your primary residence, vacation or investment property. There is more risk involved when borrowers buy homes as investments, so there may be higher down payment requirements or more stringent credit score requirements.

When you apply for a mortgage, your lender will ask for information about your savings and checking accounts, as well as outstanding debt obligations like credit cards, car loans and student loan balances. Lenders also review your past 3+ months of bank activity and will look for large deposits that may indicate a new source of funds. If you receive a gift from a family member or friend to use towards a down payment, you will likely need to provide a letter that clarifies the relationship, documents the amount and confirms contact information.

If you’re concerned about the amount of money you can save for a down payment, consider using a mortgage calculator to see what your potential monthly payments would be with various down payment scenarios. Our Loan Advisors are happy to sit down with you and run different numbers based on your specific parameters.

Income

There is no minimum dollar amount that you must earn to qualify for a mortgage, but lenders want to be sure that you have enough income coming in to cover your loan payments as well as your other bills. They do this by looking at your household income, which typically includes wages from a job, but also may include other sources of income such as retirement and investment accounts. They also look at your debt-to-income ratio, which is how much of your income goes to paying off your credit cards, car loans, other debts and housing expenses.

The mortgage lender’s requirements can vary slightly from one bank to another, but they all base their decisions on the same factors. While they consider your income and other debts, they also set the terms of the mortgage and interest rate. You can shop around for a mortgage, and you will find that some lenders offer more flexible terms than others.

Different types of mortgage lenders include retail lenders, portfolio lenders, wholesale lenders and mortgage brokers. Retail lenders provide mortgages directly to consumers. Portfolio lenders use their own funds to fund mortgages rather than sourcing them from other lenders. Wholesale lenders are banks and other financial institutions that don’t work directly with consumers, but instead originate, fund and sometimes service mortgage loans. Mortgage brokers are individuals who negotiate, place or assist in the placement of mortgage loans on residential property for compensation or gain. They must be licensed in the state where they operate.

No-income verification mortgages (also called no documentation or non-QM loans) are still available for some borrowers, but they are very restrictive and require a high credit score and significant down payment. These loans are usually reserved for self-employed borrowers and those who have a high net worth. They are also more expensive than traditional mortgages, since the lender takes on more risk by lending to low-income borrowers. They can be a great option for those who need a mortgage but have issues with their credit or savings. They can also be useful for investors who want to buy a property and rent it out, but don’t have the income to qualify for a conventional mortgage.

Assets

Lenders review your liquid assets – cash, money market accounts and certificates of deposit (CDs) – to determine how much of a financial cushion you have to make mortgage payments if your job was lost or income were reduced. The more assets you have, the less likely you are to default on your loan in a time of crisis.

For traditional conforming loans backed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac, you are typically required to have a certain number of months in mortgage reserves. These are funds you can use to cover your monthly housing costs including PITI, property taxes and homeowners insurance. Mortgage reserve requirements vary based on your lender and the type of loan.

Some lenders require more mortgage reserves than others for jumbo loans and other types of non-conforming mortgage programs. Lenders review your assets and use a formula to calculate how much of a cushion you have to meet mortgage reserve requirements.

The key is that the assets you have are sourced and seasoned, and that your savings pattern is stable. For example, if you make a large deposit into your account shortly before applying for a mortgage, your lender will be suspicious and may ask you to explain where the funds came from. This might prompt a delay in the process or even rejection of your application, depending on the lender.

Liquid assets typically include cash in checking and savings accounts, money market accounts and CDs. For other types of assets, such as retirement accounts and real estate holdings, you’ll be asked to provide verification documents, which normally include account statements and deeds for ownership. For private equity stakes in companies, documentation will vary and might include business operating agreements, shareholder certificates or corporate charters.

You’re also expected to disclose the value of your personal property, such as cars and furniture. You may need to provide a valuation report from an independent appraiser for the property and supporting ownership documents. Similarly, for some types of investment properties you’ll need to submit appraisal reports and property management agreements.