The Three Rivers Blog
Practical, Minnesota-specific guides on roofing, siding, windows, storms, and insurance — written by a local, licensed contractor.
Andersen vs. Pella: Choosing Replacement Windows in Minnesota
Andersen and Pella are two of the most trusted window brands in the country, and both make excellent windows for Minnesota. Here’s…
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Vinyl Siding Colors: How to Choose a Palette That Lasts
New siding is a big investment, and color is the decision you’ll live with the longest. Here’s how to choose a palette…
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Roof Drip Edge & Flashing: The Details That Keep Minnesota Roofs Dry
The most common source of roof leaks isn’t the shingles — it’s the metal details around the edges and penetrations. Get drip…
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Twin Cities Storm-Season Home Checklist (Roof, Siding & Gutters)
Minnesota’s worst hail and wind hits from spring through late summer. A little prep now makes damage less likely — and a…
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Gutter Installation Cost in the Twin Cities (2026)
Gutters are easy to ignore — until an ice dam or a wet basement reminds you why they matter. Here’s what new…
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Asphalt Shingles Explained: Types, Lifespan & Best Picks for Minnesota
Asphalt shingles cover the vast majority of Minnesota homes — they’re affordable, versatile, and, done right, they last. But not all shingles…
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James Hardie vs. LP SmartSide vs. Vinyl: Best Siding for Minnesota Winters
Siding has to survive Minnesota — 90°F summers, -20°F winters, and constant freeze-thaw. The three most popular choices each handle it differently.…
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ACV vs. RCV: Understanding Your Minnesota Roof Insurance Payout
When you file a Minnesota roof claim, two acronyms decide how much you actually get: ACV and RCV. Understanding them keeps thousands…
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9 Signs You Need a New Roof (Minnesota Homeowner’s Checklist)
Roofs rarely fail overnight — they warn you first. Here are nine signs Minnesota homeowners should never ignore.The 9 signsAge: your roof…
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Roof Repair vs. Replacement: How to Know Which You Need
Not every roof problem means a full replacement — but patching a roof that’s past its life just wastes money. Here’s how…
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After the Storm: Your First 48 Hours (Minnesota Hail & Wind Damage)
Hail or wind hit your Minnesota property? Here's what to do in the first 48 hours to document damage, prevent more, and protect your insurance claim.
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Metal Roofing in Minnesota: Costs, Colors & Is It Worth It?
What a metal roof costs in Minnesota, the best colors and styles, and whether it is worth it — a Twin Cities roofer’s guide with real project pricing.
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How to Choose a Roofing Contractor in the Twin Cities: 10 Questions to Ask
Ten questions every Minnesota homeowner should ask before hiring a roofer — plus the red flags that mean you should walk away.
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How Much Does a New Roof Cost in Minnesota? (2026 Price Guide)
A new roof in Minnesota runs $8,000–$22,000 in 2026. See price ranges by material and the 7 factors that move your quote up or down.
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Custom Woodworking & Built-Ins: Adding Character to Twin Cities Homes
Custom woodworking and built-ins add lasting character to Twin Cities homes - see how handcrafted shelving, mantels and mudroom builds transform a space.
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Composite Deck Build in Mendota Heights, MN: A Low-Maintenance Outdoor Living Upgrade
See how we transformed a Mendota Heights backyard with a custom composite deck. Licensed Minnesota deck builders. Free estimates: (651) 504-5655.
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Spaced Decking & Knee-Wall Attics: Why Older Twin Cities Roofs Need Extra Work
Why older Saint Paul & Minneapolis roofs with spaced/plank decking need extra work to meet code — explained by Three Rivers Contracting.
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After the Storm: The Minnesota Hail Insurance Claim Process
The Minnesota hail insurance claim process, step by step — document, file and get paid fairly. Free storm inspection from Three Rivers Contracting.
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Class 4 Impact-Resistant Shingles & Your Insurance
Class 4 impact-resistant shingles in Minnesota — what they are and how they can lower your home insurance premium. From Three Rivers Contracting.
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Full-Frame vs. Insert Windows: What Minnesota Homeowners Should Know
Full-frame vs. insert windows: what Minnesota homeowners should know before replacing. The difference between a 30-year upgrade and a quick cover-up.
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How to Prevent Ice Dams in Minnesota
How to prevent ice dams on Minnesota homes — the real causes and the complete air-seal, insulation & ventilation fix. From Three Rivers Contracting.
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