Categories
Blog Metal Roofing

Pricing of Metal Roofing: The Advantages

When you are looking for a roofing material for your home, you should consider metal. It might not be the first type of roof that comes to mind, but a metal roof has several advantages over other more traditional materials. One of these major benefits is the pricing of metal roofing.

Metal roofing is becoming more and more popular. One unique thing about metal roofs are that they are a great option for wet or dry climates.

Metal roofs are known to be wind and fire resistant. They are also know to reflect cold and heat which helps save energy no matter what climate you live in. The reason that metal roofs work so well in wet climates is because they are good at keeping water out of your house by being extremely durable.

Why Is It a Benefit?

While the upfront cost may seem high, a metal roof is extremely durable, which brings down the lifetime cost of your roof. Unlike other roofing materials, metal roofs require very little maintenance. So while the initial cost may seem high, the pricing of metal roofing essentially pays itself off. Many other types of roofs require periodic replacement. However, a roof made of metal is unlikely to need replacing in your lifetime. This also helps bring down the overall cost.

Metal roofing can save you money elsewhere as well. Since metal roofs can be both reflective and insulating, it is likely that you will save money on your heating and cooling bills. The pricing of metal roofing is a steal as it allows you to save money in other places. A roof made from a light colored metal will reflect heat during the summer, and you can install metal roofing on top of other insulating materials to give your home an extra layer of winter protection.

Appearance

As a homeowner, you may worry that the appearance of metal roofing will not fit the style of your home or neighborhood. Fortunately, metal roofs are available in many styles and adapt to coordinate with almost any type of home from 19th century to contemporary. You can even find metal shingles if that’s the look you want.

In the past metal roofs were known for being noisy, especially during heavy rain or hail. Modern construction techniques have eliminated this problem by fitting the metal covering to the underlayment. Modern metal roofs are now no noisier than more traditional types of roofing.

Recycling

Another benefit to metal roofing is that the materials can be recycled. If you decide to replace your roof, it will not end up in a landfill; instead, it will be recycled into things like car parts or even other metal roofs. If you are looking for a practical, durable, and ecologically sound roofing solution, you should consider a metal roof.

Categories
Rubber Roofing Blog

What Exactly is a Rubber Roof?

A rubber roof is basically what it sounds like, a material that is generally comprised of rubber, sawdust and slate dust.  Depending on what type of roof you are covering, you can unroll a length of rubber roof sheeting on a flat top roof. You can also look into rubber shingles for the more traditional look on your pitched roof.  Because of their composition, the roofing can outlast wood, slate or even asphalt shingles. Some rubber roofs have a life expectancy of fifty years.

The rubber makes it durable and able to withstand weather extremes as well as maintaining water resistance.   Though they may be a little more expensive than asphalt shingles, rubber roofing is still far less expensive than slate and will not crack or crumble as that particular material will do out in the elements.

Benefits of a Rubber Roof

Durability –

A lot of rubber roofing products are made from durable recycled materials. With so much weathering and debris that are thrown at a roof, it is essential that it holds up no matter what the situation. Rubber is so durable that it will withstand most elements that it is exposed to.

Water Tightness –

The reason that rubber roofing is such a popular option for flat commercial roofs is because sometimes water will pool up when it does not have a slope to run down. When this happens, it tries to seep through the roof and into the building. With many commercial buildings with flat roofs, and even some homes, the rubber keeps the water from dripping into and ruining the structure.

Low Maintenance –

A rubber roof does not take much to keep it in good shape. Gentle cleaning is sometimes required. Because of how durable the material is, it will rarely need to be repaired. If a repair comes to light, it takes little effort to replace a rubber shingle. It can be done in just a short amount of time as well.

Appearance –

Rubber roofing looks just as sleek as any other type of roofing product. Some may envision it as a lesser product when it comes to appearance. However, often times there are customers who cannot tell the difference. There are different options for style and color, making it a great choice for both residential and commercial customers.

Installing a Rubber Roof

If you are interested in learning more about rubber as an alternative and eco-friendly material for roofing, then perhaps you could try your hand out for your next do-it-yourself project.  Start with a smaller project to see how the rubber roof fares. Perhaps consider what adding additional water resistance to a small storage shed might mean. It may greatly help in keeping your items free from water damage.   Apply a sheet of rubber roofing and roll the length of it.

The edge should overlap by a good few inches so make sure that you have the necessary amount.   After determining the size, apply an adhesive with a roller brush. Apply on both the top and bottom, but not the very edges of it.  Take a large push broom to ‘sweep’ out any air pockets before continuing with the adhesive on the very edges as well as the sheeting.  This is another sealer-type glue that you apply to both the rubber roof sheeting as well as the baseboard underneath.

Again, once the glue has a tacky consistency to it, take a small roller-style paintbrush and brush out any air bubbles for that super-tight seal.

Once the glue has bonded, adhere the gutters or edging pieces and cut off the excess rubber sheet.  Applying your rubber roofing can be a simple, weekend project that will help weather any future storms.

Categories
Blog Emergency Roof Repair Services

How to Repair Pipes

Water pipes around our homes are something that needs eventual maintenance and even in the best of times and the best materials used time forgives no pipe. Knowing how to repair pipes and how to handle emergencies concerning them is something any homeowner should be familiar with.

Tips to Repair Pipes

Knowing how to repair pipes can help prevent the additional costs contained within taking care of plumbing work. Make sure you follow these simple directions to identify the problem and solve it:

Find the Pipe Leak

• Identify and spot the leak.
Before you begin focusing on the repair works in progress you will naturally need to find the problem first. This may not always be as easy as it seems, but for the most part you will find the leak due to the volume of water dripping from it or the area that has obvious water damage.

• Shut the water off.
Once you’ve spotted the location of the leak you need to cut the water off so you can work freely. You should only have to go down to your water main and shut it down. Alternately if the damage is in a location that prevents you from doing that you may need to shut down the water from your street. Make sure you remove the drywall at the location of the leak if its damaged by it as you may need to do some repairs there.

Patch the Pipe

• Placing a patch.
Take a look at the pipe and figure out where the crack is located, then grab a piece of an old garden hose. Cut some pieces off of it a bit longer than the crack in the pipe and place them on top of the crack after you cut them lengthwise. You will need to do a bit more than that though, so this brings us to our next tip.

• Using clamps.
Next you need to get some hose clamps, several in number and place them on the patch in even increments. Tighten them up until they are as tight as possible and you will have a good temporary solution until you have to replace the entire pipe at your convenience.

Ensuring Safety

• Testing the repairs.
Once you’ve patched the location you should turn the water back on to see how well they’re holding. Its possible you may need the help of a family member or friend to tell you whether your repairs are holding so you won’t flood your place again. If everything was done right you won’t have any leaks and drips once you’re done. You should still be careful with your water use until you’ve done whatever you can to replace the faulty pipe however.

• Call a plumber or fix it
Since this is only a temporary solution you should focus on getting things fixed completely as soon as possible. Either use the services of a plumber if you’re not good at it or do it yourself if you have some experience on that matter.

Guest post granted on behalf of: http://www.removalsmanandvan.org.uk

Categories
Emergency Roof Repair Services Blog

Roofing Repair Keeping You Safe

As we progress further and further into winter, the weather begins to show it more and more obviously, most commonly in roofing repair. Reports warn of the conditions on the way, showing them to be mostly freezing and wet. This is the last time of year you would want to find yourself in need of emergency roof repair. Unfortunately, such weather can exacerbate a roof’s condition, whether it breaks under the weight of snow or rots due to damp. If you find yourself in such circumstances this year, pick the roofing company that specializes in roofing repair. They will have you warm and dry quickly and professionally.

Inspecting Your Roof

Most experts will recommend that you get up onto your roof at least twice a year, preferable in the spring and the fall. Make sure that you do this in good weather and that you have taken any necessary safety precautions.

Before you climb onto the roof, you should head into the attic. Once there, look for any areas that are sagging. Watch out for signs of water damage. Be especially on the lookout for dark spots, trails, or areas that seem to be leaking. You should also look for any areas where outside light is getting into your attic.

After giving a thorough examination on the inside, you can check the roof itself. Pay attention to the condition of the shingles. Are there any that are damaged or missing?

You can also look into the gutters for any buildup of shingle granules. A number of these will indicate a great deal of wear on the shingles. Double check to be sure that all of your vents, whether from dryers, kitchens, or baths, are exiting completely to the outside, not simply into the attic. Inspect the roof, inside and out, for any signs of moisture buildup.

 

When Do You Need Roofing Repair?

Though, traditionally, roofing is typically from shingles, many are not. A competent company should be able to work with any material no matter what repairs you need. Whether the damage is from wear and tear over time, or by a sudden unexpected event such as a storm or falling tree, a good roofing repair company will tackle it with expertise. If your roof has features such as a skylight or chimney, make sure the business you hire knows how to deal with it. If extra sealant is required, they may be able to provide. Immediately needed repairs are usually available. However, an inspection check may also be offered to determine the future of your roof and perform maintenance. In cases where moss and mold have caused the damage, some companies will spray a solution to prevent future problems. Lastly, it is important that, once done, your roofing repair team can promise you will no longer have leak problems.

 

Keeping Your Roof Safe

The roof is the most important part of your house. It provides shelter and symbolizes a safe place. Don’t let this winter disrupt your peace of mind by intruding into your home. Whether it’s a leak, regular wear, or a huge gaping hole, secure yourself and your family by fixing it. Find a trustworthy and capable roofing repair company to have you back under cover in no time, no matter the circumstance.

Categories
Blog Residential Roofing

Finding a Competent Roofer

It is true that homes are probably most people’s biggest investment.  After all, there are many hoops and hurdles one must grow through in order to even qualify for a home loan. Not to mention that painful down payment, mortgage, insurance, utilities.  Yes, the list goes on and on. Of course, once you sign your life away you are only beginning to understand the true cost of home ownership.  Maintenance and repairs play a huge part in sustaining your home’s integrity.  If you’ve neglected a leaky roof, chances are the water damage could become a huge cost.  That is why finding a competent roofer or roofing contractor will not only save you a headache of dealing with inadequate service but ultimately will help you and your house save money over the roof’s lifetime.

When to Call a Professional

Whether you are a new, proud owner of a charming mid-century modern home or have been enjoying a residence for years, the chances are that your roof may need inspecting. It is usually recommended that homeowners biannually inspect their roofs for any sign of damage.

If any shingles are absent or cracked, this may suggest damage. Other indicators include moldy surfaces, collecting debris in gutters, loose materials, and moisture or rot. It is important to take precautions when inspecting a roof to avoid an accident or injury. Tile roofs should be inspected from a distance, because walking on them could cause them to break.

What Makes a Competent Roofer?

A competent roofer or contractor should be someone that you might know through word of mouth.  If someone in your neighborhood is getting their roof replaced, make sure to check on the status. Ask their thoughts about whether the work was done in a timely manner.  Chances are if they’re happy with their contractor they will be more than happy to recommend them to someone else.  Does your contractor have a website? If so, take a look at it and check the comment section.  If someone is dissatisfied with work, they may leave a negative comment or two, however, if you’re still not convinced consider going to the Better Business Bureau to see if anyone else has also lodged complaints.

Finding a Roofer

Try interviewing a couple of different roofing contractor candidates and see which you feel more comfortable with.  If things seem a little unsure right from the get go, imagine what might happen if a very big problem develops down the road.   Your contractor should instill confidence and take care of any issues that arise.  You will want to feel confident in your choice and best of all, confident with that new roof when the seasons turn and you are facing months of uncertain weather.

Categories
Blog Residential Roofing

How to Install a Metal Roof over Shingles

The average lifespan of a roof covered with asphalt shingles is usually somewhere around 8-10 years, but that time can sometimes become even less than that, depending on the local conditions and weather patterns. You could opt for a different solution than replacing the entirety of your shingle roof – installing a metal roof over shingles instead. Such metal roofs can last a lot longer than the usual shingles and they are not too difficult to install. They mostly require a minimal amount of maintenance at best. The following tips will provide you with the basics of what you need to know to install a metal roof over shingles.

How to Install a Metal Roof Over Shingles

To install a metal roof, you will follow these steps:

Remove the old vents

You should start by removing the old lead boots that cover most plumbing vents. You will also need to remove the galvanized vents as well as the vinyl or aluminum ridge ventilations.

Install the 1×3’s

Metal roofs can bend and become dented if you step on them, so make sure you add some 1×3 spacers on the existing shingle roof. You should do this before you try installing the metal roof over shingles. If you have stripped down the roof down to its bare plywood bottom, then you won’t have to worry about this at all. Start by using 8d, ring shank nails and attach the 1×3’s into the shingles at about 4-6 inch increments. You will need to make sure you cover the main span of your roof, the valleys and ridges as well as the edges as well. You need to make sure you place them right as they will not only serve as spacers but also as deadwood for each of the screws you need to put in. If you have to deal with larger ventilation stacks you will need to wrap a 1×3 box around each of them as well.

Trim the Pieces

Up next comes the installation of drip edge trim pieces. You must attach them with galvanized roofing nails at about 4 to 6 inches apart. You must start at the bottom side of the roof. Then work your way up to the top so you could make a water tight trim with a drip edge. Overlap the pieces at about 2 inches or so so they won’t leak. If you have roofs that pitch less than a 3/12 you should make sure you have more overlapping to ensure they are good enough.

Panel installation

The roofing panels should be attached by starting with the most windy side of the roof. You must attach them with roof screws with a butyl grommet so they won’t allow leaks. Make sure you space the panels and align them properly before you screw them down to the old roof. Add side trim panels and roof peak panels and the vent colors to finish the roof.

Guest post provided on behalf of: http://www.hiremanandvan.org/EC2-removals-from-city/removals-to-city.html

Categories
Metal Roofing Blog

The Many Benefits of Metal Roof Materials

The roof is, to many people, the most important part of a house. The roof over your head is the ultimate symbol of a house, providing shelter to the inhabitants. Any homeowner would want their roof to be strong and long lasting to protect them and their family into the future. If this is important to you and you find that your house is in need of a new roof, you should consider metal roof materials.  Metal roofs are customizable to any style and taste. Metal roof materials can also save you money, and can be more environmentally safe than other options. What’s more, it is sure to last well into the future.

Why Consider Metal Roof Materials?

Despite its strength and durability, metal roofing material is commonly very light, rarely weighing more than two pounds per square foot at the highest. The manufacturing process often involves a spray for rust protection, further ensuring the staying power of your new metal roof. Older roofs can often be made of asbestos.

This makes the removal and re-roofing process dangerous to both workers and inhabitants. When installing metal roof materials, companies can install it right on top of the old one. This diminishes the danger as well as the workload, cost, and environmental effect.

A good portion of the materials used are recyclable material, with a minimum of 25 percent. After installation, a reflective metal roof can greatly reduce energy costs in the summer. This is because you are spending less on cooling your house.

There are also available roofs that are painted to be re-emissive. This means they emit the heat radiation that they absorb. This works to cool the house even more and is ideal for houses in warmer climates.

No matter the look of your house, metal roof materials will fit right in. It can be in any color you wish, and any style you wish. It can look like wood, slate, clay tiles, or shingles, among others. No matter if you are picking the roof for a new house, or replacing an old roof, considering all the advantages of a metal roof should be first on your list.

Types of Metal Roofs

Metal roofing options come in a variety of metals and colors, such as copper, steel, aluminum, and more. The most popular metal used in roofing currently, is painted steel. Metal roofing is beneficial in any environment, but it holds up well in extreme weather situations. If you live in an area where the weather is unpredictable, where it can be sixty-five degrees one day, and then drop to freezing the next, metal roofing may be the perfect option for your home or business.

Steel roofs can be introduced into new builds or incorporated into remodeling plans. This versatile roofing choice is easily adaptable to any building due to its light weight, strength, and quick installation.

The latest products in standing seam metal roof applications are customizable to fit any architectural design, even slants, curves, and drastic bends. The contemporary style of this roofing option is lovely to look at, but also a nearly maintenance-free choice. This durable roofing material is common for general contractors and roofers alike, because they know they can trust the outcome and longevity of the product.

Categories
Blog Residential Roofing

Asphalt Shingles Installation Guidelines

There are many benefits to having an asphalt shingles or tile roof, however before you can be happy with a job well done you will need to do a good deal of prep work. The following tips will give you the basics of what you can expect during your next asphalt shingles roofing installation project.

Guidelines for Installing Asphalt Shingles

The following are all the guidelines you should take into consideration when installing asphalt shingles.

Underlayment

You should begin by making sure you have the proper layer of underlayment and the roof edging. Without them you will not be able to create a good, stable and waterproof roof. Make sure you are as thorough as possible or otherwise you will experience a great deal of problems further down the line.

Permit

Once you have a proper permit if you needed to obtain one, you should strip your floor clean and then nail the drip edge flashing along the eave of your roof.

Research

The heavy rains of sudden storms or persistent melting snow can eventually force water down between even the best of shingles. The worst you can ever experience in most cases are the so-called ice dams. These are essentially areas of frozen water or snow which stick around on the edges of the roof. These can absolutely destroy the lower shingles of the roof, thus allowing water to drip inside your home. You should guard against it by applying some waterproof underlayment which acts like a barrier against the ice. You can easily find them at roofing supply stores or centers. There may be specific rules about its installation, so check up with your local building inspector to ensure you’re doing it right.

Layering

Make sure you cover the rest with a asphalt-saturated felt underlayment. The layers must overlap each other by 2 inches at least. You should follow this by nailing a drip edge on the rakes of the roof and the top of the underlayment. Much like it is with the flashing, you should always make sure the pieces overlap each other at all times. The felt you’re installing will help keep the roof dry before you apply the shingles and will protect you against heavy rain and storms.

Shingling

Find the center of the roof at the eave and the top and then put a vertical chalk line. You can use that to begin the shingling, working to the left and right at the rakes. Manufacturers of shingles often recommend you start working at the left edge. Make sure to check out the packages and what they say about it.

The first few rows of shingles on the roof need a line of shingles with cut tabs. You should apply them on the eave with adhesive strip. Make sure the row is overhanging a bit and beyond the drip edge. This so-called starter course will protect the roof by filling in the joints of the following row of shingles below them.

Once you’re done with this you should nail the first of the rows of shingles right on the top of the starter course. Use four nails per shingle or as it is explained on the package, depending on the amount of wind in the area.

Categories
Blog Home Improvement

Choosing the Best Contractor

Whether you are building a new home or looking to make some repairs on your existing home, finding the best contractor to do the job is essential for a good experience. Some home repairs can be costly, especially when they are not performed correctly the first time. Making sure that you have chosen the right roofing contractor can spell the difference between a job well done and a project that may have to be fixed in a short amount of time.

How to Choose the Best Contractor

Here are some tips to help you find the absolute best contractor in your area. By sticking to these guidelines, you will quickly be able to root our the exceptional contractors.

Are They Insured?

When looking into the professional roofers that you would like to use, you should be sure to find out whether that roofer is insured or non-insured. If you end up hiring a non-insure roofing contractor, you may run the risk of being sued or having legal problems should an incident arise. You would probably be liable for any injury that a non-insured roofer may experience while working on your house. While it may be less expensive to hire someone who does not have insurance, you should really consider whether that is worth it to you in the grand scheme of things.

Are They Licensed?

Not all states require licenses for roofing professionals.  However, you should check to find out if the contractor you are considering really knows what they are doing. Licensing does not always require a test. At least you can be reassured that they have to follow guidelines. They also know the workmanship that is required to effectively roof a home. The best way to find out if a roofing contractor is licensed is to call a local licensing authority. You can call either at the city or the state level to see if their license is up-to-date.

Get an Estimate

Narrowing down professional contractors can be complicated. This is especially true if you are not sure what you can expect as far as cost. A good way to help you decide is to ask for a proposal or an estimate. That way you will not be surprised by the final bill. You can choose someone that fits in your budget.

If you look for these qualities and services in an emergency roof repair company, you are much more likely to have a better, less stressful experience, even amidst a crisis.

Categories
Blog Residential Roofing

Characteristics of the Best Roofing Company

It goes without saying that having a quality roof over your head is of major importance. A good roof does much more than simply keep you warm and cozy while the winter weather rages outdoors. It protects the structure of your home from the elements and prevents the foundation from rotting due to buildup of mold and mildew. By doing so, a good roof helps you maintain the value and livability of your home. To make sure that you get a roof that will provide proper protection for years to come, you should choose a top-notch, best roofing company.

Finding the Best Roofing Company

First of all, you should check to see that the best roofing company you choose has a license. Laying down a brand new roof requires a lot of experience and skill. You should not be trying to do any of the work yourself, nor should any under-qualified “one man show” companies. Then you should look at reviews of licensed companies. See whether they have a reputation for providing quality work within their clients’ budgets. Getting a new roof is extremely expensive, and it can be a big help to hire a company that knows how to keep costs down (without compromising quality, of course). You can obtain quotes from a number of different contractors and compare them. You should select contractors that are locally based. This way, you can verify all their information with the nearest Chamber of Commerce. The contractor that you ultimately choose to work with will be responsible for all the roofing repairs and replacements.

Next, check to see if the company offers insurance against workers getting hurt on the job. Without this insurance, you as the homeowner could be liable for any accidents or injuries that may occur during the repair.

Even if you order to have the best and longest-lasting materials used to repair or replace your roof, if they are not installed properly, they will not meet the advertised performance levels. Make sure that your roofing company offers warranties to certify that you are getting what you expect from your repair.

It also helps tremendously if you use a company that has experience with filing insurance paperwork. The stress and hassle of dealing with a repair is enough to contend with, without having to add on trouble dealing with your homeowner insurance company.

Conclusion

Although it may seem like an afterthought, you should also verify that the best roofing company you choose will clean up your property as soon as they finish the job. You should actually get the company to put this in writing. If the company you hire does not clean up the yard, you could be in danger of stepping on nails and other sharp objects. Not to mention that you might have to spend several days cleaning up the mess yourself!

Exit mobile version