At Big Fish, we love hearing from homeowners, whether you’re in the middle of a remodel, dreaming up your next project, or just wondering why your house feels colder than it should.
We’re going to tackle some of the most common questions we get about homes, remodeling, and maintenance, with honest, practical advice you can use right now.
“If I could only do one thing to my home’s exterior, what should it be?”
If you’re choosing just one upgrade, go for what protects your home first: the roof. A quality roof prevents leaks, insulation issues, and costly water damage.
If your roof is in good shape and you’re just looking to improve curb appeal, a garage door can make a surprising impact for a fraction of the cost. For around $5,000, a new garage door can completely refresh the look of your home and boost resale value.
Big Fish Tip: Focus on function first, then aesthetics. You’ll save money (and stress) in the long run.
“Why is my house so cold, and what can I do about it right now?”
Drafty windows are usually the biggest culprit. Check for cold air coming in around frames and seals. If it’s noticeable, you might need new windows or at least some temporary insulation fixes.
But don’t forget your mechanicals. Make sure your furnace is running properly, filters are clean, and your thermostat is accurate. A quick check can prevent bigger issues later.
Fireplaces can also cause drafts. If your damper is left open, it can pull warm air right out of your home.
Big Fish Tip: Small maintenance checks can make a big difference in comfort, and in your energy bills.
“What’s the best ROI upgrade for my home?”
If you’re talking pure return on investment, your money is made when you buy the house, not just in the upgrades. But when it comes to improvements, focus on what buyers notice most: roof, siding, and windows.
That said, if you’re planning to stay long-term, ROI matters less than comfort and style. Pick updates that make your daily life better, because your home should work for you, not just your resale value.
Big Fish Tip: Invest in projects that combine beauty with function. They’ll pay off in more ways than one.
“How do I prevent ice damming on my roof?”
Ice damming happens when warm air escapes into your attic, melts the snow on your roof, and that water refreezes at the edges. It’s a common Wisconsin headache.
To help prevent it:
- Make sure your attic has proper insulation and ventilation.
- Seal leaks around light fixtures, vents, and chimneys.
- When in doubt, call a professional to assess the heat loss in your home.
Big Fish Tip: Ice damming starts inside. Fix your insulation before winter hits.
“What’s your dream project or customer?”
Honestly? Someone who trusts us. The best projects happen when homeowners and our team work as true partners, with open communication, realistic expectations, and shared excitement about the result.
We’ve seen it time and again: trust transforms the experience. It’s what lets creativity flow and problems get solved with ease.
Big Fish Tip: A remodel is a relationship. Choose your contractor like you’d choose a teammate — someone who shares your goals and values.
Got a question for our next Q&A?
We’d love to hear it! Send your questions through Instagram and your topic might show up in the next Ask Big Fish episode or blog.
Because at Big Fish, we build trust, one honest answer at a time.
