Category: Residential Roofing

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Home Improvements for the Look and Structure of Your Home

Throughout the year, your roof and other areas of your home may start to fall into disrepair due to the effects of time and weather. Exterior damage diminishes the curb appeal of your house, and you are advised to make certain home improvements for its appearance and structure. Here are four types of home improvements to consider, regardless of if you want to improve the look or structure of your home.

Shingle Replacement

If you live up north, winter weather can ravage your roof. In the spring, it is recommended that you thoroughly examine your roof to see if any shingles were removed or broken during the winter. By contacting a roofing contractor, you can easily have your damaged shingles replaced.

Metal Roof Installation

Not everyone is willing to manage the upkeep of their shingle roofs. Some homeowners choose instead to invest in metal roofing, which is heartier than shingle roofing. Due to their impressive strength, metal roofs are capable of withstanding the effects of snow, rain, and wind. If metal is a viable roofing option in your neighborhood, you may want to consider it as a replacement to your current roof.

Rubber Roof Installation

Durability is also a key characteristic of rubber roofs. These roofing systems are ideal if you live in an area prone to poor weather conditions. In particular, they are commonly used in wet climates due to their waterproof exteriors. When looking to better fortify your home, you should consider contacting a contractor and having a rubber roof installed.

Additional Home Improvements

There are a range of other exterior home improvements that you can make to your home, including:

It is important to devote time to improving your home’s outer appearance. When you invest effort in making home improvements, you have the opportunity to boost your home’s curb appeal and resale value.

Keeping your home in top condition requires you to make renovations throughout the year. Roofing contractors are available to provide repair and replacement services and keep your home looking as beautiful as the day you bought it.

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Choosing the Most Green Friendly Roof

As the world becomes more aware of the need for managing natural resources, many homeowners have taken to improving and updating their homes for the sake of eco-friendliness. Your roof is not only a major aspect of your home in terms of raw materials, but also with regard to opportunity. Constant exposure to the elements means that roofing materials should be durable. It also means you need to capitalize on its potential energy. You can do this by choosing a green friendly roof that benefits the environment, and you as well.

The Right Roofing Material

Selecting the material for your roof has a lot to do with non-environmental factors. You need to make considerations for the strength of your house frame and supports. You must also consider its appearance, and your budget as well. Once you have narrowed down your options, consider the which material has the most green friendly roof. Consider these points when determining what your looking for in a green friendly roof.

  • Recyclability: You can recycle plastic polymers, metals, and wood shingles. You can also find it from previously-used materials for maximum environmental focus.
  • Heat Absorption: Light-colored materials are ideal for reflecting heat. White tile and light-colored metal roofing are examples of ideal materials for limiting solar gain, reducing necessary energy consumption.
  • Lifespan: Roofs made from concrete or clay tile, polymers, or slate typically offer the longest lifespan, which is beneficial in reducing the amount of materials that must be disposed of during repairs or replacement.

Other Ways to Make a Green Friendly Roof

Solar panels can be added to many existing roof types but can appear cumbersome to homeowners. Photovoltaic shingles represent a newer option which provides much of the same solar energy-harnessing potential with the benefit of a more seamless blend with conventional materials. As with materials which provide strong heat-deflecting properties, a reduced need for traditional energy consumption is one of the best ways to reduce your carbon footprint.

You should base the type or roofing material you choose ultimately on a combination of factors. However, regardless of the attributes of your home, there is always a way to make a green friendly roof. Consider your options thoroughly for best results.

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Choosing Cool Roofing Materials for Hot Climates

Your roof is one of the most crucial factors in controlling the temperature in your home. This is of particular importance in hot climates where sun exposure is frequent and inside temperature is naturally high. You should choose materials with respect to the support and frame strength of your home but there are plenty of options to stay cool during the warm seasons for all homes. With cool roofing materials, you can successfully repel hot temperatures, and keep your house cool all summer long.

Here’s what you should know about choosing cool roofing materials.

Heavier Roofing Materials

If your home is built with a reinforced roofing structure, or you are willing to invest in such enhancements, there are considerably more cool roofing options available to keep your home colder. Concrete tiles are a perfect example. While one of the heavier materials available, concrete is slow to heat. It is also available in lighter colors which provide additional reflecting of solar rays.

For a more rustic look, clay and terra cotta tiling provides many of the same attributes as their concrete counterparts. “S” tiles interlock to create arch-shaped gaps which allow not only for moisture runoff, but also increased air circulation. When combined with light coloration for added sunlight deflection, this type of cool roofing material can provide outstanding cooling properties.

A final choice for heavy tile roof construction is slate roofing, a very popular choice for classic European-style homes. Like clay and concrete, slate tiles do a good job of shrugging off the beating sun. This keeps your house feeling cooler, reducing energy consumption.

Lightweight Options

When time and budgetary concerns exist, you will most likely want to choose from lighter-weight cool roofing materials. For flat roofs that are not visible from the ground level, membrane roofing can deliver outstanding hot-weather performance at a value.

For a more traditional look with the benefit of ample heat protection, metal roofing is one of the top choices available. As with tile configurations, light-colored metal panels are ideal for maximum solar deflection. In any case, metal is very low in weight, affordable, and great for keeping the heat outside.

Whether you are building a new home or upgrading your existing one, there are number of cool roofing options to keep cool when the heat is on. Consult a professional roofer to determine the load-bearing capacity for your home if you are unsure about employing heavier materials and you will be sure to proceed with the greatest confidence.

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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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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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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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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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Residential Roofing Blog

5 Ways to Improve Your Home Exterior

Too often, people overlook their home exterior when they are decorating. Sure it is important to spend time creating a beautiful indoor environment; however, the way your home
looks on the outside makes a big impact. A home exterior that looks amazing has a wonderful curb appeal. If you need to up your curb appeal, then consider the following five ways to improve the exterior of your home.

Update Your Roof

Many people are updating the roof of their homes so that it looks more modern and current. This outdoor renovation is a great idea if your home is older. You can also update your roof to change the look and style of your home.

Paint Your Door

Next, consider painting your front door. Perhaps the color has faded or maybe your home could use a fun pop of color. Either way, this is an easy project that many people can do themselves. If you do not want to do it yourself, it should not cost too much to hire a painter.

Add Window Boxes

To make your windows look better, you might want to add window boxes. You can plant beautiful flowers in these boxes that can help your home look more visually attractive. Flowers are a great way to add color to a home, and many are easy to maintain if they are placed in the boxes.

Maintain Your Yard

If you want the outside of your home to look good, it is important to maintain your yard. Make sure to water your plants regularly and get rid of any weeds. Also, trim the bushes and grass often so that they do not look overgrown.

Hang a Wreath

Finally, hang a wreath on your door so that your house looks a little more decorative and inviting to the people who pass by. Improving your home exterior is a great way to add value to your investment, and it might make you happier to come home everyday.
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Blog Residential Roofing

The Many Different Types of Roofs on the Market Today

The old adage, “Not all things are created equal,” certainly applies to roofs as well. Indeed, with the varied and vast architectural styles in both urban and suburban areas in the United States and around the world. The types of roofs on the market today run the gamut from modern to old school to cutting edge. Regardless, they all serve a common important function: that is, to provide fundamental protection for your home.

The Top Five Types of Roofs

Despite the diversity of roofs out there, there are some types of roofs that are more common than others. The most popular roofs on the market today include the following:

  • Asphalt or shingle roofs
  • Metal roofs
  • Wood roofs
  • Tile and cement roofs
  • Slate roofs

Installation of any one of these types of roofs depends on a number of factors, including climate, economics and aesthetics. For example, tile and cement roofs are often used in areas that are prone to extreme heat because of their inherent ability to deflect and absorb UV rays efficiently, thereby keeping houses cooler. Asphalt or shingle roofs are easy to install. They are often more affordable than other types of roofing materials, which makes them a popular choice among homeowners. Finally, metal roofs, which are also effective in deflecting UV-light, are durable and have long lives, making them an increasingly popular option.

Roofs of the Future

In addition to the aforementioned options, roofs that are increasingly being utilized today, particularly in urban areas, are eco friendly “green” roofs. These roofs work by providing a partial or complete coverage of vegetation on the roofing agent of a building (often metal), which acts as an insulating agent for the building. These types of roofs also absorb rainwater more efficiently and are aesthetically pleasing to neighbors and homeowners.

From green roofs to asphalt or shingle roofs to metal roofs, there are myriad options when it comes to roofing. In selecting which type is best for your situation, the key is to determine your needs. Do your research before committing to a product.

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