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Blog Residential Roofing

Choosing Top-Quality Roofing Contractors

When you are ready to replace your old roof, deciding which style of materials to use is only the first of many choices you will have to make. Knowing what questions to ask prospective quality roofing contractors can help you avoid putting yourself at risk to companies that do not carry certifications or insurance. Following a few basic guidelines can help you identify quality roofing contractors in your area that you can trust.

Bringing Visions to Life

Once you have identified the materials that you wish to use for your new roof, your next step is to seek out professional roofers who can bring your vision into fruition. Companies that boast portfolios using many types of materials across diverse job sites will likely have the most knowledge and experience. The following criteria are positive indicators of quality roofing contractors:

  • Class A certification
  • Verifiable proof of insurance
  • Roofing worker’s compensation coverage
  • Multiple references
  • Proven record of success
  • Option for written warranty

Contractors who meet these guidelines are a promising resource for your roofing project. Because you need to trust your roofers, it’s important to look for all these signs.

Cover Your Assets

Professionals who are willing to draft warranties and can provide written proof of insurance demonstrate a commitment to safety and quality. If you need additional recommendations, you can also ask local manufacturers or distributors for recommendations. Their working relationships with local roofing companies give them a unique insight to project quality and reliability.

Bringing in hired crews to wander around your worn and damaged roof leaves room for injury and accidents.  It is in the best interest of both you and your contractor to verify insurance before any work begins. If your contractor does not carry proper insurance, you may be liable. In the event of an accident that injures a worker or requires costly repairs, you may be liable. Following a few basic guidelines can help you identify quality roofing contractors in your area. Make sure they are certified, insured and trusted for their work.

Get It in Writing

Ensure that your roof is made with quality products and materials by taking the time to seek out a quality roofing company. Verified insurance and written warranties are positive signs. It shows they are trustworthy contractors who can help you build the house of your dreams.

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Blog Residential Roofing

Reasons to be Proactive About Your Home’s Roof Care

No matter the season, your home’s roof is only going to work as well as its able to, that’s why it’s important to be proactive about roof care. Even though this part of your home is designed to last for many years or even decades, there are some things that can happen during that time that can diminish its capabilities and safety. To prevent unexpected and nasty roofing surprises, here are three reasons why it is in your best interest to contact a professional roofing contractor in Virginia company.

Affordability

Roofing problems vary in severity. A minor issue can quickly escalate into a major and expensive repair issue overnight. Even though roofing companies are open year round, their prices and availability can vary. To keep your roofing expenses down, it is best to have an inspection at least twice a year. This allows you to be proactive about your roof care. Any issues that are detected during those inspections should be resolved as soon as possible. This will keep your repair costs from adding up.

Safety

Your home’s safety is something you should never compromise if you can help it. If your roof shows signs of distress, the last thing you want to do is ignore them. You can never predict just how safe and sound your home’s roof is. Err on the side of caution and contact a professional roofing in Virginia service to know for sure.

Maintain Home Environment

One thing that is commonly overlooked is the relationship between a home’s internal environment and the roof. Deficiencies in a roof can quickly diminish your home’s ability to regulate its internal temperature. It also increases the amount of thermal energy that escapes to the outside. A roof that is poor condition can also cause structural damage to other areas in the home, such as leaking, flooding, rotting and more. Inspections and regular service are the only ways to be proactive about roof care to prevent your roof from affecting your home’s internal environment.

Only you can prevent your roof from becoming a source of frustration that eats away at your home’s overall safety, comfort and your wallet. Contact a credible roofing in Virginia company you can trust to make your job easier for roof care.

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Blog Residential Roofing

Choosing a High Quality Roof

As the three little pigs learned in their adventures with house-building, the materials you use to construct your home make all the difference in durability. This is especially true of the roof. Roofs cover and protect the exterior of your home to keep the weather (and the big bad wolves) out. Because of this, you need to choose a high quality roof. Almost all roofing systems will need some routine maintenance, and in the event of disaster, surfaces may require emergency roof repair. Here are some high quality roof materials to consider as you select and care for your roof.

Easy to Maintain Metal Roofs

There are many types of roofing material you may choose from for the roof of your residence. A popular high quality roof material for residential use is metal. Metal roofs can be made of galvanized steel in corrugated sheets, stainless steel, aluminum, and copper. Less expensive metal options include the corrugated galvanized iron or steel roofs. Steel roofs are a popular option for their durability and can be painted to coordinate with the exterior of your home. Though metal roofs need little maintenance, they are subject to damage caused by violent storms or if a tree were to fall onto the roof. Emergency roof repair by professional workers is available to correct the damages.

Long-Lasting Copper and Slate Roofs

Copper roofs are an exceptional high quality roof due to their corrosion resistance, long life, and lightening protection. Though they come with initial high investment, they can last for hundreds of years. In addition, they require very little upkeep and are recyclable. Another beautiful roofing material is slate. Slate is a fine grain rock formed from strong compression in the earth. Slate roofs are constructed by nailing tiles of the stone to the batten (or boards) on a roof. Because of its low water absorption (less than one percent of moisture is absorbed), slate provides a waterproof roofing material. Like copper, slate roofs have a long life span; they can endure up to 400 years.

Metal and slate roofs are beautiful options for your home. Do not be like the first two piggies in the story of the three little pigs that opt for the quick and easy home building materials. Instead, consider the peace of mind that comes when you choose a high quality roof that offers longevity and stability.

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Home Improvement Blog

Choosing a Front Door Color

Choosing a front door color can be a tough decision because it is something that you will see everyday. You want to choose a color that suits the current style and look of your home. Below are a few tips to help you choose the perfect color for your front door.

Options for Choosing Front Door Color

There are many options for choosing a front door color. You will want to take into consider the color of your roof, and exterior. Maybe you want a drastic color to make the front door pop, or maybe you want something a little more soothing that blends in? Below are different options for choosing a front door color.

Celery Green – Connects your house with the nature surrounding it

Grey-Shaded Blues – Great for coastal, colonial, and country homes

Bright Hues – Use a bright hue such as Robin’s Egg Blue if your overhang shadows yours front door to contrast it against the rest of your house

Cherry Red – Great for a warm welcome and compliment most natural colored homes

Emerald Green – Great for formal and historical style houses

High-Gloss – A high-gloss front door gives energy to a monochromatic colored house

 

Click HERE for a video on Better Homes and Gardens.

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Residential Roofing Blog

4 Things to Consider When Choosing a Roof

Are you in the process of choosing a roof for your home?  This is an important investment that can add value to your investment and increase your home’s curb appeal. Since installing a roof is a more expensive home renovation than adding new paint to your walls, it is important to choose the right one. Here are four things to consider when you are looking for the ideal roof.

Climate

It is especially important to choose roofing materials that work with the climate where you live. For example, in hotter area, a lot of houses have tile roofs. This material is great at shielding the heat from the inside of your home. In a colder area, you may not need this type of roof. You may prefer shingles or slate. The climate will greatly affect your decisions in choosing a roof. Make sure you speak to a local roofing contractor who is knowledgeable in this to help you determine which is right for you.

Style of Roof

Certain roofing materials work better on specific styles of roofs. If you have a steeper roof, then metal might be a good option for your home. If your roof has low slope, this type of material might be more difficult to install. You may prefer another material like asphalt. Depending on your roof style, you will be choosing a roof that matches.

The Exterior of Your Home

It is also important to evaluate the exterior of your home when you are investing in a new roof. Ideally, the roof should coordinate with the look and feel or your home. If your home is a Spanish style, then clay tiles may look best. If your home has a lot of brick, then shingles, slate, or asphalt may be better options.

Budget

Your budget is usually a big guide to help you when choosing a roof. Some pieces of material are more expensive than others. If you do not want to run out of money with only half of the roof installed, make sure that you research prices to determine what you can afford. Also, keep in mind that it can be worth it to spend more money on this upgrade.

Once you consider these four things, shopping for the right roof should be simple. Contact a contractor today for help.

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Home Improvement Blog

Home Renovations That Add Value to Your Home

If you are a homeowner, then you understand how important it is to have a favorable home value. While location and size play a role in the value of a home, the actual details of the home matter too. Therefore, you can easily increase the worth of your home with home renovations. Here are a few home renovations that may provide you with a return on your investment.

Install a New Roof

For older homes, updating the exterior is a wonderful way to increase curb appeal and add value at the same time. Installing a new roof is a great home renovation to consider if your exterior needs a pick me up. With a roof remodel, you can add updated materials to your home that can offer better protection from the outdoor elements. You can also customize the roof to match the other details of your home.

Makeover Your Kitchen

A kitchen makeover is one of the most popular home renovations that can add substantial value to your home. Most prospective homebuyers prefer homes with updated kitchens. If your space needs a transformation, consider adding new cabinets and countertops. You may also want to invest in updated appliances and hardware. When you are designing your new kitchen, try to make sure that it is functional.

Paint the Walls

Adding paint to your walls is an inexpensive and valuable upgrade to invest in for your home. Paint can make your home look more current, and it can also help the interior of your home to look cleaner. When you are painting the walls, try to choose a neutral hue that will be pleasing to a variety of people. This way you will get the most return from this renovation project.

Get started on these home renovations today if you are looking to increase the value of your home. Whether you are selling your home in the future or simply want to maximize your investment, they are wonderful options that will provide you with satisfaction for years to come.

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Commercial Blog

Choosing the Right Roof for Your Commercial Building

Every building needs a roof, and if you own commercial building it is important to make sure it has a good roof. The right roof provides protection from the elements and it can also enhance its exterior appearance. Since there are so many choices when you are selecting commercial roofing, the following guide will help you pick the right one for your building.

Set a Budget

Before you begin, it is a good idea to set a budget. Certain types of roofing materials are more expensive than others. In addition to the materials, you will probably have to pay for installation costs. Your budget is likely to dictate the type of materials you select for your commercial building. After all, you do not want to purchase an expensive product that only covers half of the building.

Evaluate the Climate of Your Area

When you select roofing materials, you should try to consider the climate you live in. For example, certain roofs are designed to shield heat. This is a great option if you live in a hot climate. If you live in an area that rains a lot, then other styles of roofs might be better for your building. Since a roof is an investment, you want to choose one that will last long and provide protection against the elements. This is more difficult if it does not work with the climate.

Coordinate With the Style of Your Building

Finally, make sure to choose roofing materials that coordinate with the materials of your commercial building. Many materials are available in a variety of colors so you can match them to the style of your building. This is a great option for a fun shop or restaurant. There are also roofing options that look more professional for corporate offices.

If you need help choosing the right roof, you can always ask for help. Also, make sure to research so you can make an informed decision. This way you will be satisfied with your final decision.

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Blog Home Improvement

The Right Roofing Material for Your Home

Choosing the right roofing material for your new roof can be an intimidating prospect if you are not familiar with the benefits and drawbacks of your options. Consider the material’s cost, lifespan, durability, physical properties, and appearance, among other factors. Determine your budget and priorities before making your decision. Below are a list of types of roofing material to help you find the perfect roof.

Asphalt Shingles

The most commonly-used roofing material, asphalt shingles can be found on over 80 percent of residential roofs. They are inexpensive, feature good fire resistance, and are only moderately heavy. While they are recyclable, they are not technically eco-friendly in construction, and they are not the most durable material. They are available in various colors to suit many different looks.

Clay Tiles

A more expensive option versus asphalt, clay tiles offer great resistance to fire, are generally low-maintenance and long-lasting, and are made from natural materials. However, manufacturing is energy-intensive. This type of roofing material is heavier and may require framing for support, but does offer an attractive European-style look.

Concrete Tiles

Very similar properties to clay tiles, although considerably cheaper. Concrete is popular on roofs with steep or moderate sloping, offers excellent fire resistance, and can resemble wood shakes, slate, or clay tiles. This is another heavy material requiring reinforced roof framing for support.

Metal

A versatile option, metal ranges in cost from moderate to high (steel is more affordable than copper). It offers good resistance to wind and fire, and is lightweight. Metal roofing offers good durability, can be made of reused materials, and can be recycled at end of lifespan. It absorbs less heat than asphalt and can be is popular on lower or steeper sloping roofs.

Slate

This is an expensive material which requires specially-trained installation workers, and is applicable for steep slopes only. Slate roofing offers quality resistance to wind and fire, is long-lasting, and made from natural materials. However it is heavy and does require reinforced structural support.

Other Considerations

Weigh all factors when deciding on a roofing material. This includes the reputation of the installation company and the type of warranty they provide. Determine the most likely risks in your area, and the benefits you are seeking, whether for safety, appearance, or weather. The roof is a major element of your home from aesthetic and functional standpoints. Make sure to do your homework before you make a decision.

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Residential Roofing Blog

Busting Myths About Sheet Metal Roofing

Improving the look of your home can be as simple as adding a new roof. Instead of replacing your standard shingles, create an entirely new, modern look with sheet metal roofing. If you are hesitant to use the material, having heard some tales, learn the true story behind these five common myths.

Common Sheet Metal Roofing Myths

As with everything that begins to gain popularity, there are undoubtedly questions about it. There are many questions, and myths, surrounding sheet metal roofing. To gain a deeper understanding of this type of roofing material, we explain the four common myths about sheet metal roofing.

Myth #1: It will be too heavy.

This is a very common myth, because it seems to make sense. Despite being made of metal, which is typically considered a heavy material, roofing slats are not. They can weigh as much as 65 percent less than fiberglass, and 75 percent less than clay or slate. Because of this, sheet metal roofing is a great, light-weight option for your next roofing project.

Myth #2: It will be difficult to remove my old roofing.

Standing seam metal roofing installation can be quick work because the new materials can be installed right over your existing asphalt, fiberglass or composition shingles, providing there are no more than two layers. Instead of having to fully remove your old, existing roof, you can install a metal roof over shingles, or whichever material you used previously.

Myth #3: It will cost too much.

It is true that metal is more expensive initially than some other materials, but you need to factor in long-term costs of sheet metal roofing. Consider the following:

  • A copper or stainless steel roof can last for 50 years or more
  • It requires little to no maintenance
  • Asphalt shingles last an average of only 15 years
  • It will increase the chance of being hit by lightning.

While metal does conduct electricity, it does not attract it. If lighting does strike your rooftop, the material will disperse the current across it, just as it does when you are sitting in a car. Metal can actually be safer because it is not flammable.

Myth #4: I won’t be able to walk on it.

Never fear, you can still hang up Christmas lights with a metal topper. Check with the material manufacturer or professional installation company to learn how to properly walk on yours.

Make your roofing decision with confidence knowing there are plenty of benefits to installing sheet metal roofing. Take advantage of the chance to improve the look of your house, save money long term, and reduce possible fire damage by installing a metal roof on your home.

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Blog Metal Roofing

Top Three Reasons to Install Metal Roofing

Watching the rain fall gently on the trees and flowers can be a beautiful sight. When you have a leak due to old shingles, seeing that same water pouring into your foyer is not so sweet. When it is time to repair your roof or update the look of your old one, consider the top three reasons to install metal roofing on your home.

Why Install Metal Roofing?

Metal roofing is becoming more and more popular, and for good reason. The following are three reasons to install metal roofing next time you need a new roof.

Classic or modern: no need to choose.

Contemporary homes can accentuate their clean shapes and smooth finishes with metal roofing. The materials come in long, flat panels that attach vertically, creating fluid lines. The availability of different colors makes these an excellent choice for houses, apartment complexes and commercial buildings.

Colonial architecture can look stunning with metal roofing as well. Fabricated, shingle-style pieces can be made to look like slate, tile or wood shakes. The pieces are often given a coating, such as granulated-stone, so they look more realistic.

It lasts and lasts and lasts.

If you install metal roofing, they typically stay viable at least 50 years. This lifespan is much longer than the average 15-year lifespan of asphalt shingles. Materials like copper, stainless steel and zinc rarely require any maintenance, just a periodic washing with a hose. Other materials may require regular painting, but others are pre-painted and should not need much upkeep.

It can save you some cash.

Despite what your instincts may say, metal will not make your home hotter; it may even save you money. Metal reflects heat better than other materials, which means you can have lower air conditioning costs. Likewise, heating costs can be reduced in the winter when the roof reflects heat from its underside back onto the house.

Install metal roofing to add a unique look to your home, whether it has a modern style or a classic one. You can enjoy your new housetop all the more knowing you have a product that will stay attractive, and that you are saving money on utility costs.

 Piedmont Roofing offers metal roofing in Loudoun County, Fauquier County, Fairfax County,  Clarke County, and other surrounding cities.

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