Category: Roofing

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Roofing

Gable Roof Vs. Hip Roof

It’s time to replace the roof on your home. It’s one of the largest home improvement jobs you’ll ever do, so you want to ensure that you do it right. There’s lots of roofing types to choose from, so which one is right for you? Gable and hip roofs are the most common choices in the US, so which one is right for you?

 

Gable Roofing

A gable roof is one that is sloped on two sides. They are also sometimes known as pitched or peaked roofs. They’re very recognizable, thanks to their triangular shape. It’s this shape that lends a lot of benefits to the gable roof.

Gable Roof Pros:

Firstly, thanks to the peaked design of a gable roof, you’ll never have to worry about snow stacking up on your roof. If snow sits on your roof and keeps collecting for too long, then you could see several issues arise. As the gable roof is slanted though, you won’t see this happening. Eventually, the snow will just slide off.

The same goes for water, too. Water is the number one enemy of your roof. If it’s allowed to collect on your roof, it creates moisture that leads to mold and mildew. This leads to rot which will prematurely end the life of your roof. You want a roof that will repel water as well as it possibly can. Water will run down a gable roof when it rains, heading straight into the gutters. You will, of course, need to keep your gutters clear to ensure this happens, but it’s a simple job that you don’t need to worry about.

Another benefit of a gable roof is the space it gives you in your attic. Having that large, peaked roof gives you a lot more vertical space. This is perfect if you’re thinking of eventually using that space to create another room in your home. Higher ceilings are vital for good attic conversions. Even if you’re not going to do this, having that space for storage is very welcome.

It’s also worth knowing that because a gable roof is such a simple design, they’re much easier to design and build onto your home. Because of this, it makes building them much cheaper overall.

Finally, gable roofs can be tiled in a wide variety of materials. You can use asphalt shingles, terracotta tiles, metal, clay, or concrete tiles. Again, the simplicity of the design makes them easy to use any kind of tile on without issue.

Gable Roof Cons:

There are a couple of aspects of gable roofing that you’ll need to consider carefully, before you go ahead and get one on your home.

In high wind areas, a gable roof can be more susceptible to damage. If they’re not constructed properly, then you’ll find that the wind will get underneath the eaves and pull at the roof. High winds can also peel materials off the roof. If you get a gable roof, you’ll need to ensure it’s properly constructed, and that there are adequate supports underneath to  stop any issues.

 

Hip Roofing

Your other option is hip roofing. These roofs are slanted equally on all four sides, coming together at a point at the top to form the ridge.

Hip Roofing Pros:

Like gable roofing, hip roofs allow for water and snow to run down them, thanks to their sloped design. If you have well maintained the roof and the guttering, then you’ll never have to worry about water damage in your roof.

Hip roofs are very stable, thanks to their design. The inward slope is what makes the roof so sturdy, so you won’t have to worry as much when you have storms and high winds. It is recommended, though, that you do still check it after any storm has passed.

If you want extra living space, you can add a dormer crow’s nest to create an extra room.

Hip Roofing Cons:

The biggest drawback of a hip roof is its price. It’s more expensive to build than roofing types, as it has a more complex design. Because there’s more to the roof, you’ll need more building materials too, and the costs mount up quickly.

You’ll also find that with a hip roof, there are more joins and seams that you need to be aware of. These need to be sealed and flashed properly, or they’re a risk for letting water into your roof. Checking that flashing after heavy storms is a must, as it can be pulled off with enough force. You’ll need to ensure you have an expert installing your roof, so that you won’t have any problems in the future.

 

Which Roofing Type Is Right For You?

Now you need to decide which roof you want to put on your home. There are so many choices that it can be hard to decide. Mostly, it comes down to personal choice. There are a few factors you’ll need to keep in mind, however:

  • Price: What’s the cost of that roof? Is it within your budget? The cost will be a big factor in which roof style you choose.
  • Style: Do you like the look of the gable or hip roof? If there’s a style that appeals to you more, that’s the one you should go for.
  • Practicability: You’ll need to be able to take good care of your roof. Are there any weak points in your chosen roofing style? For example, is it prone to collecting water, leading to leaks? Do your research before you pick.

If you take your time and choose a roof that fits all your criteria, you’ll have a roof that’s right for you.

Both gable and hip roofs are popular with homeowners across the US, so you just need to choose the one that’s right for you. Use this guide to see which style will suit your home, needs, and budgets more. With the right roof, you’ll have a home that’s protected from the elements for a long time to come.

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Roofing Blog

5 Pitfalls to Avoid When Hiring a Roofer

Hopefully, hiring a roofer is something you don’t have to do very often. It can be a nerve-wracking expensive process that most people don’t look forward to doing. Thankfully though, modern techniques and materials are designed to last a long time. But that shouldn’t mean that you are lax about hiring a roofer.

Hiring a roofer that works for an experienced, quality roofing company ensures that your investment lasts as long as possible, that the process goes smoothly, and that your hard-earned cash is well spent.

Avoid the following mistakes that are commonly made by homeowners.

1. Not Vetting a Company

Before hiring a roofer you need to verify that they are operating legally. Contractors in most states are required to obtain professional licenses that attest to their skills and qualifications. They’ll also be required to obtain a business license, and carry insurance.

All these things can be checked online. The company’s website usually notes having these items but be sure to double-check your local government database.

Also check their reputation through Google and social media such as Facebook. Sites such as Yelp are a great source of legitimate customer reviews. Make sure to thoroughly read the reviews that you find; it’s not uncommon for angry customers to leave low ratings without explaining why. Understanding why a contractor received low ratings helps you determine if it’s a characteristic you are okay with.

 

2. Failing to Get a Written Estimate or Quote

Contrary to popular usage estimate and quote aren’t exactly the same thing. Though you should get either of them in writing before the job begins.

Estimates are a preliminary figure that tries to be accurate but the final price may fluctuate upon completion of the project. Quotes are also a preliminary price but they’re intended to be finite and cannot change upon completion of the project.

Both documents should stipulate exactly what labor and materials will be used for the work. It should also indicate for how long the document is valid. Getting this information in writing makes it easier to compare the services of multiple contractors, but, more importantly, it ensures that neither you nor the contractor make last minute changes that would change the cost.

 

3. Only Getting One Estimate

When you’re in the market to have a large repair done it’s a good idea to get more than one estimate. Having more than one contractor look at your roof often gives you multiple ways of approaching the problem; each contractor may have a slightly different idea of what needs to happen.

Generally though, you should find that estimates fall within a certain range. Obvious outliers that are significantly higher or lower than the average should be a red flag.

You don’t need a lot of estimates to make an educated decision,usually three or four is plenty. You can get away with fewer estimates, though, if you have a good idea ahead of time about what to expect. Talking to your neighbors or friends is a good way to get a idea what service and price to expect.

 

4. Hiring a Roofer Solely Based on Price

Price is one the biggest factors that homeowners must consider when looking to have roofing done, and it’s tempting to use price as the reason for choosing a particular contractor. But going with the cheapest quote isn’t necessarily the best choice you could make, especially if the quote is significantly lower than others you’ve received.

Some contractors will use an unrealistically low quote in order to get homeowners to agree to the work but then request changes once the job is started. Unscrupulous roofers will claim to have encountered unforeseen circumstances on the jobsite then pressure you to approve additional work.

In other instances a very low quote is indicative of the contractor cutting corners. They may use inferior materials, rush to get the job done, or not have proper licensing.

Sometimes, unlicensed contractors take advantage of homeowners by offering a low quote, accepting a deposit on that work, then either not showing up or stopping in the middle of the work.

And remember, there are other attributes, besides price, that are important. You want a contractor who is respectful, knowledgeable, and uses the most current industry standards. Most importantly you want to be hiring a roofing who communicates well, in terms you can understand, and who quickly returns phone calls, texts, or emails. Hiring a roofer that is skilled may cost more upfront but will save you headaches and repair costs.

 

5. Trying to Do it Yourself Instead of Hiring a Roofer

Roofing is a trade requiring specialized skills, materials, and tools. Additionally, it poses several safety risks. Because of that, roofing should only be completed by trained professionals. There are many reasons it’s a bad idea to attempt this work on your own.

Lots of people think that the project will be less expensive by doing it on their own, but that’s not really the case. On its surface labor may seem cheaper because you’re not paying someone else, but there are other factors and expenses to consider.

Roofing requires machinery and tools that most homeowners don’t have on-hand. Renting them is an option, of course, but that’s an added expense and you don’t know how well that equipment has been maintained.

Unless you’re familiar with roofing, doing the job yourself will likely take longer than having a professional do it. You’ll need extra time to research and practice, plus you’ll be slower overall when performing the work.

Safety is also a concern. Accidents and injuries are common for people not accustomed to working on high, slanted surfaces. That coupled with having to move heavy equipment and materials using a ladder, is a recipe for disaster. Professionals are insured so they’re covered if an employee in injured, but you’d be stuck with hefty medical bills… and an unfinished roof.

 

Conclusion

Roof repair is a large project that requires extensive planning. Hiring a roofing that is skilled is instrumental to having the work completed well, on-time, and within budget. Avoiding the common pitfalls we discussed will saves you lots of frustration and cash in the long run.

 

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Blog Roofing

5 Ways to Save Money on Utilities

House standing on a different dollar bills. Real estate concept.

Whether you are installing a new roof on your home or just trying to save money on utilities, you can easily improve the energy efficiency of your home by making small choices that will deliver a big difference. Not only will you decrease your home’s energy usage and help the environment, but you will also save a considerable amount on your utility bills. These 5 energy efficient tips will improve your home while allowing you to save money on utilities.

Be Cool: Choose a Shingle Color that Reflects Light

In order for a roof to be considered “cool”, it has to be lighter in color than traditional black asphalt or dark wood shingles. Lighter roofs save energy by reflecting light and heat away, rather than absorbing them. Studies show that having a lighter colors on roofs really does add up to energy savings on your monthly bills.

Dark roofs are a problem because they absorb heat and make the rooms in your home hotter. Your air conditioner has to work harder, which adds up to higher utility bills each month. On hot days, a dark roof can reach 150-175 degrees, which not only affects you and your family, but also creates a hotter environment in highly populated areas.

To reduce the amount of air conditioning necessary to cool your home, choose a lighter colored shingle, which will decrease heat retention. A cool roof can be 50-60 degrees cooler, allowing you to save money on utilities.

Look for Energy Star Shingles

You can tell if the shingles you are choosing will help with your energy costs by making sure they are Energy Star rated. Check with the manufacturer of the shingles you are choosing to find out how good the rating is for that particular shingle. Highly reflective shingles rank higher because they help reduce temperatures in your attic. Not only will the shingles keep your home cooler, but you may be able to get a tax credit for energy efficiency if you choose shingles that are Energy Star rated. Check with your insurance agent or tax accountant to find out.

Use a Roof Coating

If you aren’t ready to install a new roof, you can use a roof coating on your existing roof in a lighter color. A roof coating will reflect the sun and heat while also protecting the roof from environmental damage. It will also protect your home from getting too hot. Roof coatings are easy to roll on and you can do it yourself.  The Cool Roof Rating Council gives you data about different roofing products and how effective they are in cooling your roof.

A new roof coating can waterproof your roof, hide flaws, and prolong the life of your roof. Some roof coatings reflect more than 80% of the sun’s heat and UV rays while lowering roof and interior temperatures. This adds up to reduced need for air conditioning and savings on your monthly utility bill.

Add Attic Insulation

Most of the heat in your home escapes through the attic. If you want to keep winter heating costs down, don’t forget to see how much insulation is in your attic. If there isn’t enough insulation in your attic, the heat will be lost and your bills will be higher.

Your attic may have insulation already in place. But if it’s been there for years, chances are it has compressed and is not as effective as it once was, or as it could be. It’s an easy matter to roll new insulation on top of old. By doing this, you can reap the benefits, and save money on utilities.

One way to install more insulation in your attic is to do it yourself with fiberglass insulation. Insulation is relatively cheap and easy to install. It’s estimated to save up to 20% on your heating and cooling costs. You can find DIY tutorials online to help you if you decide to add insulation on your own.

Other kinds of insulation are best installed by a professional, such as cellulose insulation. This is cost effective compared to fiber glass and is made from at least 75 percent recycled material. You put it into walls and ceilings with a blower. While you can rent a blower, a professional knows how much you need to fill the space.

Choose the Right Type of Materials

To properly insulate your roof, you have many options. The type of material that will work best will depend on the type of house you have. It also depends on the climate you live in. There are high-tech solutions such as home foam insulation and cellulose insulation, as well as simpler methods like fiberglass and cotton batting. In cooler climates with a home that has cathedral ceilings, you may want to consider a radiant barrier for beams that reflects the heat rather than absorbing it. If you live in a dry climate—or have metal roofing—you may not need insulation for your roof at all. Simply leaving an air space will be sufficient.

You have the opportunity to choose sustainable materials to let you save money on utilities. One important step you can take is to understand as much as you can about your home’s conditions. This is especially true for the climate and how it affects your home’s energy usage. The ideal material will depend mostly on these two factors, although in general experts agree that wood shingles are not energy efficient and will require you to replace them every 15 years.

Take the time to consider your options and choose the right material for your home’s energy needs. By doing so, you may benefit from as much as a 30% decrease in your utility bills. Although a professional roofing contractor will be able to advise you on the best roofing material, it’s still a good idea to understand the basics of your home, climate, and the available roofing options available before you talk to them. A little effort and research before you begin your roofing project could add up to years of big savings on your utility bills.

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Blog Roofing

Protecting Your Home with a Weather-Resistant Rooftop

The weather takes a definite toll on your home’s rooftop. It steadily inflicts damage until your roof shows signs of wear and tear like warping, peeling, or outright collapsing. Out of all of the weather elements, however, moisture tends to lend the worst damages on even the sturdiest of rooftops. You can hold off the worst damage and protect your home for years by getting a weather-resistant rooftop. You can protect your home by knowing what materials are best for roofing in rainy environments.

Putting Your Roof on the Offense

Shopping for the best roofing materials is difficult. It may suit you to be proactive rather than on the defense in protecting your home. By putting your home on the proverbial offense, you can help it withstand the weather. It protects from damages that come from rain, humidity, and other factors. These factors could cause it to warp, collapse, and sustain other weather-related wear and tear.

As such, you should shop for materials that are known to resist moisture. These materials will hold off water from seeping into your home. A weather-resistant rooftop will be able to resist water intrusions better. Rubber, for example, stands out as one of the best weather-resistant rooftop materials because it cannot be penetrated by water and it also withstands other weather conditions like humidity and heat. Rubber roofing has become increasingly popular in the last decade and now ranks high among homeowners who want to protect their homes from expensive and detrimental water damages.

Concrete is another material that is now being used more often for residential roofing. This is because of it’s ability to withstand weather. A popular material for commercial buildings, concrete is now gaining recognition among homeowners who want their roofs to hold off water and moisture. While the material itself is porous by nature, it does not allow water to penetrate so deep that it seeps into your attic or upper part of your home. It also does not warp or collapse because of water exposure.

Partnering with the Best Roofing Contractors

When you want access to the best water-resistant materials for homes today, it is important that you partner with a licensed and bonded roofing business. Fully trained, professional roofing contractors can show you the best choices for your home and also give you all of the details you need to help you get the most out of your investment.

They also have the staff needed to get your home’s roofing done quickly and professionally. Professionals can respond to emergencies like your roof collapsing after a heavy rainstorm or a roofing fire caused by lightning. They likewise should be able to work with your homeowners’ insurer to help keep your costs to a minimum.

Pairing with a licensed and professional roofing business also means that any work done on your rooftop will meet or exceed your expectations. The finished result should be insurable by your homeowners’ insurance company. It should also be guaranteed to last for years.

Water can inflict irreversible harm to your home’s roof. It can cause your shingling to warp and peel or entire sections of your roof to collapse. When you live in a rainy environment, it is important that you protect your home. Choose a reliable, weather-resistant rooftop material that will withstand the challenging weather conditions. You can select the best material and receive roofing services that exceed your expectations by partnering with a fully licensed and professional roofing contractor.

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Blog Roofing

Popular Roofing Choices Your Home

The material that you choose to roof your house with impacts how comfortable and happy you will be in your home, but there are many roofing choices to choose from. When you want the peace of mind that comes from having a sound and durable roof over your head, you may find it best to invest in one of these popular roofing materials.

Roofing Choices to Choose From

Rubber

Rubber roofing continues to be one of the most popular roofing choices among homeowners who prize performance and reliability. This material is well-known for its ability to keep your home comfortable and safe while also providing the appearance you want for the outside of your house.

Rubber roofs keep out heat, water, and other weather elements, allowing you to enjoy lower heating and cooling expenses. Rubber is also low maintenance and does not require a lot of upkeep for it to retain its appearance, performance, and durability.

You can find rubber roofing in colors that complement the exterior of your home. This material proves to be one of the more affordable choices on the market and one that continues to grow in popularity among homeowners.

Slate

Slate is another one of the most affordable and popular roofing choice when you are looking for a roofing material for your house. It comes in neutral colors that complement any color of exterior house paint or vinyl siding. It also has a natural, rustic appearance that you may find appealing.

Slate is fire resistant and also performs well in extreme weather conditions. It requires little upkeep and can last for years with regular maintenance.

Asphalt

Asphalt is a common roofing material that many homeowners choose for a variety of reasons. It is well-known for its fire resistant qualities and also low cost. Asphalt comes in gray or black, ensuring a neutral appearance that goes well with any color of siding or paint.

With proper maintenance and repairs, asphalt shingles can last for years. It performs well in all weather conditions and can keep out water, heat, and other weather elements.

Metal

Metal rooftops last for years and can be the showpiece of any home. When you invest in a metal roof, you have the option of leaving it in its natural condition or having it painted the color of your choosing by professional roofers.

Metal also tolerates any kind of weather, from extreme heat to the coldest of temperatures. It is strong enough to withstand hail, high winds, and other conditions that could cause other roofing materials to suffer damage.

Metal likewise is a fireproof material that many homeowners’ insurance companies prefer. When you want a rooftop that will provide you with the safety, longevity, and performance you want, you may find metal to be your most appealing option.

Ceramic

Ceramic is another popular choice with homeowners in different parts of the country. This tile roofing comes in a wide assortment of colors. These tiles are fired for durability and painted in bright colors that add to the appeal of any home.

These tiles tend to be a bit higher in price than other roofing materials. However, many people choose it anyway for its colorful beauty. They also enjoy its ability to reflect heat during the hot summer months.

Roofing choices are based on personal preferences and the climate in which you live. Roofing materials vary in performance and styles today. You can make the best choice for your home by learning about your available roofing material options.



		


	


	

		
		


			

		


		
	


	






	



	


		
			

				
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5 Steps to Finding the Right Contractor

		


			

		


		
	





	


		


			
		


	


	
	


		


			
In most cases, roof repairs are a necessity rather than a choice. Roofs are essential to provide structural integrity to your home and safeguard the contents. A quality roof can enhance the appearance of your home and maybe even save money on utilities and energy costs. To ensure you receive a quality roof, you must find a reputable roofing contractor to do the job.


Roofing is one of the most expensive repairs that a homeowner can make. Therefore, it is important to ensure that you find a qualified roofing company that will get the job done on time and stay within budget. A skilled roofer can provide you with expert information about the best materials for your roof. These six steps will help make it easy to find a contractor that you can trust to expertly get the job done.


Ask Friends and Neighbors for a Referral


One of the best ways to find a qualified contractor is to ask friends, family and neighbors who they use. If you notice that a neighbor is getting a new roof, ask them about their experience with their contractor, even if you do not yet need a new roof. Eventually, you will need one and it is good to have the information when needed. Ask the person if they were satisfied with the job done and whether or not they would hire them again. If you do not know anyone who has had a roof replaced recently, you can ask at local hardware stores and lumber yards.


Do Your Research


Once you have a list of three to four qualified contractors, research each one. First, verify their contact information and consult your local Better Business Bureau to ensure that there are no glaring red flags. Review Yelp or other reviews. Ask each roofer for a list of references and call each one.


Request to See Proof of Insurance


It is a must that your contractor have liability insurance and worker’s compensation. Ask to see proof of insurance and contact the insurance carrier to confirm that the instance is still valid. Using an insured contractor helps protect you from liability if they are injured while working on your property.


Obtain an Estimate


Once you have chosen a couple of prospects, ask each one to come out to your home and provide you with an estimate. Pay attention to whether or not they arrive on time for the estimate. Chances are that if they are late, they will not bother to complete the job on time. Talk to the contractor about roofing materials. Ask about the extent of the job, as well as the time needed to complete it. Remember that the cheapest bid is not necessarily the best one. Knowledge, enthusiasm and expertise are also very important. If you are unsure of anything, clarify any questions that you might have with the roofer.


Draw Up a Contract


A roof is likely one of the most expensive home repairs that you will make. You must have a contract to protect your investment. A detailed contract should be drawn up. It should cover liability, safety procedures and workers compensation. Cover things like payments, schedule, clean-up methods and warranties.


		


	


	

		
		


			

		


		
	


	






	



	


		
			

				
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Homeowners: Why You Need Roof Repair Contractors

		


			

		


		
	





	


		


			
		


	


	
	


		


			
Something’s wrong with the roof, but you are not exactly sure how to go about correcting the problem. Instead of trying to figure it out on your own, the smart move is to call roof repair contractors and get some help with the roof. In the long run, this approach is in your best interests. Here are a few things that the roof repair contractors can handle without you trying to manage them on your own.


How Roof Repair Contractors Will Help


Roof repair professionals have extensive knowledge on roof repair, and will be able to help you. Whether you are in need of emergency roof repair, or a standard inspection, they can help. Here are the most common things a professional will help you with.


Properly Assessing the Situation


You know something is wrong and you even have an idea of what type of repair is needed. What you don’t know is the extent of the damage and whether what you have in mind will produce the desired outcome. There’s a good chance that more is going on than you realize.


The best thing to do is call a roofing contractor and arrange for the roof to be inspected. If the problem is more complicated than you realized, rest assured the roofer will identify every issue that must be addressed. As part of the process, the professional can tell you if it’s worth your money and effort to make the repairs. Depending on what’s wrong, it may cost you less to have the roof replaced.


Learning About All the Repair Options


Some roofing issues can be remedied with more than one approach. This is where the expertise of roof repair contractors comes into play. You may be familiar with one way of correcting the problem, but the roofer knows of three different solutions that would work in your case. The professional will sit down with you and explain how each approach works. You’ll learn the pros and cons of each solution, and have the chance to weigh the probable outcome of each strategy. That allows you to make the decision that you think is best.


There’s Less Danger Involved


As agile as you happen to be, working on a roof is a little outside your wheelhouse. The odds that you could slip and sustain a serious injury are real. While it’s true that a professional does assume some risk by ascending to your roof, that individual has the right equipment and knows exactly what safeguards to take. The potential for an accident to occur is considerably less when the roofer is dealing with the repair.


Your Home Insurance Provider Will Love You


By extending coverage to you, your home insurance provider is taking on a certain amount of risk. Any action on your part that helps to prevent further damage to the house is beneficial. The fact that you chose to hire a pro to make the roof repair will generate some love, since roofing professionals usually provide some type of guarantee for their work.


In addition, roof repair contractors will complete all repairs in compliance with local standards. That further helps to minimize the risk that your provider takes on by continuing to provide you with coverage.


As tempting as it may be to tackle the roof repair yourself, resist the urge. The best approach is to have a professional take a look at the roof. Once it’s clear what is wrong and what can be done to remedy the problem, it will be an easy decision to authorize the roofer to take care of everything.


		


	


	

		
		


			

		


		
	


	



	
	


		

		
	
	


	




			

		
		
		




		
		
		
		

		
		  



		

			
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