Whether you are getting a roof built from scratch or choosing a new roof for your already existing home, there are a bunch of different materials that are readily available and worthy of consideration for your new roof. These materials include wood, asphalt, composite shingles, concrete, as well as slate, and clay tiles.

Style is quite an important factor when it comes to choosing your materials, but it’s not the only one you should be focusing on. The cost of a product, its weight, and the installation requirements should all have an influence on your selection. Here are 4 things you need to know in order to choose the right roof for your house. 

     1. Roofing Terminology

Before we discuss materials, it is important that you understand the terminology. Roofers typically talk in squares when they measure instead of using “square feet.” A square is a roofer’s basic unit of measurement. One square is the equivalent of 100 square feet in area, which is a 10-foot by 10-foot square. A typical two-story, 2,000-square-foot house will consist of about 20 squares. Understanding terminology will help you to better understand how the cost is calculated around the different types of materials.

     2. Cost of a New Roof

The price of a material is the starting point, but there are a number of considerations that one needs to consider and will play a role in the cost of a new roof. One important consideration is the condition of the existing roof. If you are remodeling a house there are a bunch of considerations – do the old materials need to be stripped off, or does the supporting structure need to be repaired? These things cost time and money The shape of the roof is another factor that contributes to the cost of different types of roofing prices. A gable roof with a few or no breaks in its planes is a much simpler roofing job than one with vent pipes or chimney. A house with multiple chimneys, multiple valleys, or things like skylights requires significantly more skill and time to roof. Knowing the cost and needs will allow you to choose the type of material that is best for the job.

     3. Choosing a Roof Material

When you remodel, more often than not, the existing roof of your house plays an integral part in determining your choice of roofing material. Should you be considering other options, you’ll want to consider not only the cost but the weight, texture, color, and durability of your alternatives, as well as what has traditionally been used on a house like yours.

    4. Roofing Materials and Flashing

Not every roofing material can be used on every roof. A roof with a low slop, or even one that is flat will likely require a different surface material from one with a steeper pitch. Slate and tile are very heavy materials. Many homes in the US are inadequate to carry the heavy load. The following is a more in-depth description of the different materials used by roofers so that you can make an informed decision with your roofer:

    – Asphalt – This is the most commonly used of all roof materials. It is likely due to the fact that it is the least expensive of all the options and doesn’t require much skill to install. It’s made of a fiberglass medium that’s been combined with asphalt and is then given a sand-like finish. It comes in two options, namely, the standard single-thickness variety and then a thicker, laminated product. The standard single-thickness variety costs around half as much, but have a less appealing appearance than laminated shingles. They also last roughly half as long.

    – Wood – For centuries wood was the main roofing material choice, but now one sees the use of it is strictly prohibited in some areas due to fire risk. Typically made of cedar, redwood, or southern pine, roofs made out of this material have a life expectancy of around 25 years.

    – Metal – Metal roofing options tend to air on the more expensive side of things. The copper/asphalt as well as lead varieties are typically installed as shingles, but there are metal options that are manufactured for seamed roofs that consist of vertical lengths of metal that need to be joined with solder.

    – Tile and Cement – This is an expensive, heavy option, but is extremely durable and can look very aesthetically appealing.

    – Slate – Slate is one of the most durable of all roofing materials. Not all slate is the same, but the best of it is able to outlive its fasteners. In fact, old slate is often recycled and reinstalled, with the expectation that it will last at least another century.…

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Rooftops have an average lifespan of 30 years, even if they are constructed with the highest quality material. Since they are prone to weather damage, roofs should be maintained by a professional roofing company. The right company can take care of various issues, like leaking that leads to moisture and damaging of the wooden structure. Don’t wait for a serious problem to occur. Here’s what you should pay attention to before hiring a roofing contractor.

Signs of a reputable and professional roofing company

Reasonable prices

Be careful when you are searching for an affordable roofing service. The price rate should be neither too low or too high. The prices should be reasonable and affordable. Low prices can be tempting at first, but may actually cost you more in the long run, in terms of getting a bad service.

Professional and reliable roofing companies hire technicians with experience, while making sure their services will not cost you a fortune. On the other hand, cheap roofing contractors are focused on working faster, but without following a code of practice. This may result in many mistakes.

Reputation and integrity

Make a list of the companies you think will fit your standards. After finishing the list, checking their reputation and integrity is the next thing you should do. It’s not easy to build decent reputation in the roofing business, especially when there are so many contractors out there.

Check if the companies in your list are members of The National Federation of Roofing Contractors. This association consists of reputable roofing companies. Do research on their reputation online and contact the Department of Professional Regulation. Experience and longevity are good indicators of the integrity of a reliable roofing company. Otherwise, roofing contractors don’t stay long in the roofing business.

Insurance

A professional company in the field of construction and roof maintenance shouldn’t offer its services without proper employee insurance. Ask if the contractor has insured the employees against injuries. By providing an insurance document, the company is proving that its employees are secured if something goes wrong.

Don’t believe a contractor who is trying to convince you verbally. Ask for insurance in a written form. A professional roofing company should be taking care of its technicians properly. It should cover both clients and employees in case of an accident or unexpected roof damaging.

Meeting deadlines

Having a strict deadline will make the roofing technicians work more efficiently. Without a deadline, you don’t have control over the project. You will be constantly wondering when the contractor will finish. Prolonged work may lead to problems that will cost you more money and nerves.

Therefore, make sure that you hire a contractor who respects deadlines and does everything in its power to finish the roofing project within a given time frame. Go to the roofing company’s website to see if it’s working with deadlines. If not, you should move on to the next contractor from your list.

Warranty

Oftentimes, unprofessional roofing contractors use faulty workmanship and materials in order to just finish the roofing project as quickly as possible. These are the worst contractors since they don’t care about making your roof capable of sustaining weather damage in the years to come.

Investing your money in a new roof can cost you a lot. A good warranty agreement should cover that investment for a period of 40 years. Numerous problems can arise with your roof, but there is no need to worry if the contractor has agreed to cover manufacturing defects related to materials and workmanship errors. Read the warranty agreement carefully since each one has a different set of terms and conditions.

Excellent customer support

You should be careful not to hire a roofing company without top-notch customer support. Excellent customer support leads to a positive first impression along with new clients. The roofing company’s customer support team should be willing to respond to your questions and demands at all times.

It doesn’t matter whether you call the roofing company over the phone or send an email. The customer support team should do its best to respond with the details you’ve requested, and do so in no time. That way, you can learn everything about the contractor and rest assured while working with the roofing company in question.

Testimonials and recommendations

Sometimes, you may have doubts about the work of a certain roofing contractor. In that case, go online and search for testimonials and reviews from the contractor’s previous clients. People often post their opinions online, so that others can learn the pros and cons of a particular company.

Asking for recommendations from your neighbors and friends is another good way to find the best roofing company in your area. Listen to their experience and ask for an honest opinion regarding the roofing projects they’ve paid for. You will surely find at least one person who can recommend a quality roofing company that operates nearby.…

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Performing DIY roofing jobs or hiring amateurs for roof installations or repairs is an attractive proposition for many people. Regardless of how many self-help videos you watch, your skill level won’t match that of a professional commercial roofing repair. Maybe you think you can save a couple of hundred dollars on your roofing project. But you’re forgetting that a less-than-perfect job may end up costing you more money in the long run and leave you dissatisfied. Still not convinced that you need a professional roofing contractor in Atlanta GA?

Why Hire a Roofing Service Specialist Georgia

One of the important decisions you can ever make is to find and hire the best roofing contractors in the industry. Lucky for you, there are many top-rated experts with years of experience. So, you’ll have options to choose the best roofing services. Let’s look at 10 benefits of partnering with the right commercial roof contractor.

1. Adheres to Local Building Code

It’s unlikely you’re not familiar with the building code in your city. Basically, these are laws and regulations that stipulate how contractors and business owners should handle construction projects. If you don’t know what the local codes say and go ahead to install a new roof yourself, you might make some mistakes that might lead to your roof being demolished. You can avoid the financial loss and the cost of re-roofing your building by hiring a commercial roofing contractor in Atlanta GA. They’re familiar with building codes and can tackle your big roofing job correctly.

2. Personal Safety

Whether commercial or residential, roofing is usually a dangerous undertaking. There are many cases of DIYers falling off from the roofs trying to perform inspections, new roof installation or repairs. Some consumers think that buying safety equipment can help them stay safe. True, but unless you’re a full-time roofer and understand the risks involved, chances are going to make mistakes that might lead to physical injuries. Let the commercial roofer who’s been in business tackle your project in metro Atlanta. Hiring a roof service in Atlanta GA with outstanding reviews not only saves you time but minimizes the risks of accidents.

3. Exceptional workmanship

Roofing customers know that quality roofing comes with real-world experience. No matter how many DIY videos you watch or how many manufacturers’ manuals or guides you read, you’ll never attain the specialist skill level. Roofing experts often undergo professional training and work on several projects. All this takes years of hard work and dedication. The outcomes are always customer-pleasing; flawless roof installations and timely roof repairs.

Roofing work entails more than attaching a flat roofing membrane to the substrate. You have to factor ventilation outlets, roof drainage, and other things. Without adequate experience, you are bound to make a mistake that might compromise your installation. A minor mistake might lead to a leaky roof while a major one can lead to a full roof replacement. Why waste time and money when you can hire a commercial roofing professional to perform proper installation and repairs?.

4. Staying Within Budget

Embarking on a DIY roofing job without adequate planning or budgeting means you can easily spend a lot more than you’d intended. Budgeting entails calculating material costs for your residential roofing job and accounting for miscellaneous expenses. It’s best to let professionals in sandy springs and Alpharetta Georgia handle the project. They can provide you and your family the best estimates for shingle roofing or other material, and ensure you stay within the budget. Whenever they come for the inspection, you will get a breakdown of the costs. So, you have an idea of what you spend on the roof any year.

5. Advice on the Best Materials

When it comes to roofing a building or home, there are various types of materials at your disposal. Choosing the right products for roof application can be difficult if you don’t know what suits your home. Commercial roofing services can help you select long-lasting roof material that withstands the weather conditions in your city. It’s likely they have worked with numerous materials from various brands and actually know what suits your roof.

6. Getting Roofing Materials at a Discount

Buying roofing materials at your local hardware store or supplies often means paying the full retail price for the items you need. Commercial roofing services can get you various types of materials at competitive prices. They usually buy materials like shingles for roof installation or replacement in bulk because they work on multiple projects. If you buy roof

Commercial contractors, on the other hand, buy their roofing materials in bulk because they’re usually working on multiple projects at any given time. Hence, they purchase at wholesale price. If you get your roofing material through a contractor, they’re going to add your products to their bulk order.…

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Many nouns related to roofing contractors end in y; ability, honesty, quality all spring to mind. Roof problems? Same thing: hesitancy, worry, delay. If you are thinking of tackling roof problems yourself, we politely suggest two more nouns: futility and injury. Here are six reasons to hire a nearby, trustworthy roofing contractor rather than hiring someone who shows up on your doorstep or, far worse, doing the work yourself.

#1 — Mastery

Hiring a local, reliable roofer makes sense unless you, a typical homeowner, secretly know how to do roofing work, know all the appropriate building codes, and know where to find a garage of free roofing equipment.

Admit it: you don’t. You aren’t expected to. Hire a friendly, helpful roofer to perform everything you need:

• Annual inspection
• Minor roof repair
• Major roof repairs
• Roof replacement

Some homeowners fear losing control of the repair process. You control it from start to finish. Your roofer will outline your roofing needs, respect your budget, and help you plan a long-term strategy. These are the exact steps roofers use with commercial roofing, scaled down to a single-family home.

Roofing contractors with physical addresses in your area must adhere to local building codes. This separates them from transient roofers, a Ted-with-his-Flatbed who shows up with “leftover” shingles, offering to “fix” your roof for money upfront.

Send Chuck-with-a-Truck packing. Only trust your roof to a roofer willing to plant roots in your neighborhood, a roofer who will stand by completed work.

#2 — Competency

What about hiring a local handyman or general contractor and subcontractors? Those folks are acceptable for certain jobs, but for roofing, go with an experienced, local roofer who follows the industry’s best practices, uses cohesive, trained crews, and has all the correct, modern roofing equipment.

A handyman may still carry a hammer and a pail of loose roofing nails around when the industry standard is air nailers and coiled nails. Subcontractors may hire day crews from the parking lots of home improvement stores, throwing together untrained workers unfamiliar with each other and ignorant of correct roofing techniques. 

# 3 — Safety

Roof work is inherently dangerous. Residential roofs are in a category called steep-slope roofing. They have highly angled pitches to the roofs, which make them slippery and dangerous.

No homeowner should ever risk walking on a house roof, even with a one-story ranch roof with what appears to be a gentle slope. 

Professional roofers take roof safety seriously. They work cautiously but efficiently, using correct safety equipment:

• Fall arrest gear
• Personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Equipment hoists
• Roof brackets
• Heavy-duty ladders

Professional, local roofing crews are also trained to work safely and work as a team, getting a roof repair or replacement job done quickly and safely. 

Almost all roofers carry liability insurance and workers compensation insurance, transferring their clients’ financial hazards to themselves. Consider: if you slipped and fell from your own home’s roof, who would protect your financial future if you were injured, or worse? 

#4 — Reliability

Reputable local roofing contractors with nearby physical addresses are experienced members of your community. They will not disappear the way Dan-with-a-Van or storm chasers will.

The roofer who repaired or replaced your home’s roof will be available in case something goes wrong with your home’s roof. Having a nearby, reliable roofer prevents minor problems from becoming big, expensive ones.

Take something as simple as a loose piece of flashing (the shiny, thin metal bridging gaps between materials): if you ignore it, water will leak into your attic and ruin insulation, drywall, ceilings, and more. If you get your reliable, local roofer to make a quick repair, you save thousands of dollars.

#5 — Warranty

Attempting a roof repair yourself, or hiring someone not recognized by a roofing materials manufacturer, will void your roof warranty. A local roofing contractor, in business for many years, has the experience and manufacturer training to provide you with repair work to maintain existing warranties.

If you need a full roof replacement, you can only get the best available, strongest warranties from reputable roofers.

# 6 — Serenity

You and your family will enjoy the serenity and peace of mind earned from using a local, honest roofer. You’ll know your roof is going to last. You gain years of strong protection for your home, your family, and all your possessions.

With annual inspections from the same roofer, your roof will be in the best condition possible now and for decades into the future.

At Metro Roof Products, we check all the boxes. We are local, experienced roofers dedicated to serving our community. We have been in business right here in the Canton area for more than a decade, using highly trained crews to install and repair our neighbors’ and friends’ roofs. Now let us help you! …

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In need of roof maintenance and wondering what it costs? You may also be wondering what exactly roof maintenance includes. Maintenance of your roof includes a few different things that we will cover in this article. In general roof maintenance includes inspections, general roof repairs, debris removal, gutter cleaning, and mold removal (among other things).

To determine whether your roof is due for maintenance, it’s best to contact a professional roofing company. They can come out and do an inspection and provide an estimate. Then they’ll schedule a time to come out and do the maintenance or repairs.

Safety is the top priority when doing roof repairs or roof replacements. It’s important not to take on this job if you do not have experience in roofing. While it may seem easy to just brush away debris, climbing on top of your roof is a safety risk in and of itself. It’s important that you take all safety precautions and leave them to the professionals.

Importance of Roof Maintenance

It’s important to maintain your roof so that you can keep its integrity and not have to pay for costly repairs or potentially a replacement. Performing routine maintenance can save you money in the long run. Some of the maintenance is something that you can do yourself at home. But if you don’t feel comfortable, or if you don’t have the right equipment, you can always call a professional roofing company to perform your maintenance for you.

The overall benefits of roof maintenance are:

• Preventing further damage
• Keeping the integrity of your roof in check
• Regular monitoring of any damage to your roof

These benefits are important in keeping the structure of your house in good health. If your roof is compromised, then your whole home could be compromised. It’s important that you keep your roof well-maintained regularly.

What is Roof Maintenance?

There are several things that roof maintenance includes. Your roof needs regular maintenance because it helps to keep your roof in good shape. If you skip out on your routine roof maintenance, you’ll be paying for it eventually in the form of repair costs and/or a roof replacement.

Roof maintenance general includes the following things:

• General roof repair
• Roof inspection
• Gutter cleaning
• Debris removal
• Mold removal

These are just a few things that maintenance generally includes. Let’s take a more in-depth look at some of the things that are included in roof maintenance. Keep reading to learn more.

Debris Removal

This is something that most homeowners CAN actually do themselves (as long as it doesn’t require getting up on the roof yourself). If you have a tool that can reach your roof, you can easily remove debris pile-ups on top of your roof. Debris gets on your roof from wind or rain and if you don’t remove it can become a bigger problem.

Mold Removal

You should also be sure to regularly remove any mold from your roof. Mold can quickly spread to other areas of the roof and your home, causing more damage. You can use your hose to gently spray away any mold or moss buildup. If the mold is too widespread, you may need a professional roofer to come to get rid of the mold for you.

Gutter Cleaning

Gutter cleaning is an important part of roof maintenance that many people don’t think of. However, if your gutters are left unclean and unattended, it can cause harm and potential damage to your roof. You can clean your gutters using a hose and gently remove debris from your gutter. Or you can use a ladder to remove all the gutter debris by hand. Be sure to use safety measures if you use your ladder. If you’re not comfortable doing this yourself, contact a professional roofer. They can take care of your gutters for you.

General Inspection and Repair

Roof maintenance also includes general inspection and repair. You should get your roof inspected at least once a year. In Florida, we recommend getting a roof inspection annually and after any severe hurricane or natural disaster.

In a roof inspection, a roofer will look for any loose shingles, loose nails or bolts, loose flashing, or anything out of place. If they notice anything amiss, they can often repair it on the spot if it’s just a matter of something loosening that needs to be repaired.

How Do You Know if Maintenance is Enough?

Now that we’ve covered what routine maintenance on your roof includes, it’s time to talk about how we know if maintenance is enough. In some cases, maintenance is not sufficient enough to repair the damage and a full roof replacement is needed.

The best way to determine whether you need to invest in a new roof is through a roof inspection. Your local Lakeland, FL roofing company, Residential Roofing Depot, can provide you with a free roof inspection and estimate.…

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1. Choose A Roofer With Standards.

Would you settle for a plumber, restaurant, or doctor that is just “average” or has “decent” standards? That’s not going to cut it if you’re going to spend $10,000 or more on a roof that protects your home from the elements. When it comes to something as expensive and important as your roof, you want a roofing company that expects and demands the very best in roofing quality.

It can be tough to find businesses with high standards these days, but the best roofers focus on great materials, craftsmanship, and training for employees. They’re happy to share their processes and decisions with you because they’re confident that they’re providing you with an excellent roof. Plus, they understand the importance of providing their customers with a certain degree of transparency throughout the roofing process.

If you’re wondering whether a not a roofer has high standards for their work, just ask them. It only takes a few questions to understand if a roofer has high standards — and in turn, if they meet yours.

2. Choose A Roofer With Quality Materials.

Even if you have the best installation team on the planet, cheap roofing materials just won’t stand up to the elements. Here in the South, high humidity, heavy rain, tropical storms, and even hurricanes can put your roof to the test — and low-end roofing shingles, nails, and the like just won’t be able to protect your home in the short-term or the long-term.

Before you hire someone for your roof replacement, learn about the roofing materials they offer. Do they offer high-wind protection? Are they algae-resistant? Are they fire-resistant? Do they have protection against UV rays? When it comes to roofing materials, you can’t ask too many questions — grill your potential roofers to make sure the shingles they’re using are up to snuff.

3. Choose A Roofer With A Great Online Reputation.

Before you start believing everything you hear on the internet, remember this: not all reviews and review sites are created equal. Sites like Yelp! have users that give much lower ratings than other sites, and that’s because they profit on people who need a sounding board for negative feelings. Think about it: are you more likely to leave a review for a reasonably good experience or a poor experience?

It’s only natural for people to vent their frustrations on review sites. However, just because someone has a complaint about a business doesn’t mean it’s a bad business. Many reviews could call out roofing professionals online because of a misunderstanding or a mistake, and that’s not necessarily a cause for concern.

It’s when you notice patterns within the reviews that you should worry. Negative patterns of behavior, like a roofer using cheap products, not communicating clearly, lying, or having high-pressure sales tactics could be — and should be — enough to scare you away.

Check Google, The BBB, Angie’s List, Top Rated Local, and other relatively neutral review sites to see what your friends and neighbors have to say about local roofers, and don’t forget to take in the entire story before making a decision on your next roofing contractor.

4. Choose A Roofer With The Right Licenses And Insurance.

Licenses and insurance protect homeowners and roofers in a variety of situations — it’s the only thing standing between you and disaster if something goes wrong during the roofing process. That’s why it’s crucial for any roofer you work with to a) have licenses and insurance and b) have them on hand at all times.

Let us be clear: if your roofer doesn’t carry licenses or insurance, find a new roofer. If they have the documents but refuse to show them to you, find a new roofer. If they “misplaced” the documents but will bring them by once they start the roofing job, find a new roofer. Your home is too important to be under the control of unlicensed and uninsured roofers.

5. Choose A Roofer Your Friends And Neighbors Trust.

Ultimately, the proof is in the pudding when it comes to a roofer’s quality of work — and that means there’s only one group of people you can trust with roofing opinions: your friends and neighbors who have gone through the roofing process.

If your next-door neighbors and your sister both chose Roofer A, and they’re both having water leak problems with their new roofs, there’s a very good chance that you should avoid Roofer A. But if you have three coworkers who all chose Roofer B five or six years ago and they love their roofs, you might want to consider Roofer B.

Your friends and neighbors shouldn’t be your only source of information about local roofers, but their first-hand experiences provide you with empirical evidence that can help you make the best decision possible for your home.…

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The roof of your house is an important part of what helps keep you and your family warm, dry, and safe. Known accurately as a roofing system, they can be made of asphalt, tar, rubber, clay, composite material, wood, metal, cement, or stone.

Each of these materials has made its way onto the list thanks to its ability to keep out water, but they all also offer various benefits and drawbacks. Different types of roofing systems may also be more or less accessible depending on your budget. And of course, where you will live may also factor heavily in your roofing needs and the amount of exposure to heat, high winds, extreme snow, hail, and fire in your area will ultimately affect your choice.

It is important to understand your options in order to choose the best roofing system. Below are seven different types of roofing systems to choose from:

TYPE #1: ASPHALT ROOF SHINGLES

These types of roofing systems are essentially a composite made of asphalt, fiberglass, felt, and mineral granules pressed together. Asphalt shingles are typically made in a rectangular shape with three tabs. Popular due to the fact that they come in many colours and styles, and also don’t require much maintenance, you can expect your asphalt shingles to last somewhere between 10 and 30 years.

Thanks to a fairly easy installation process, asphalt shingles are generally inexpensive. In an asphalt roof system, the surface shingles are laid over wood decking made from closely spaced planking or sheets of plywood. Asphalt shingles are also available in a laminated variety that is simply a thicker, two-layered version of the standard asphalt shingle.

TYPE #2: RUBBER MEMBRANE ROOFING SYSTEMS

A petroleum product, rubber membrane roofing is made from ethylene propylene diene terpolymer (EDPM). Unlike shingles, this type of roofing system comes in rolls or sheets of various widths. An ideal option for flat or low-pitched roofs, the membrane is usually glued directly onto a wood roof deck and the seams are waterproofed.

TYPE #3: SLATE ROOFING SYSTEMS

In parts of the world with an abundance of slate, this has been a popular type of roofing system for hundreds of years. Lasting up to 10 decades, slate is also an aesthetically pleasing option due to its natural colour variation and the fact that no two shingles are exactly the same.

Slate is a very heavy material and can therefore only be installed on a structure that is engineered to support the extra weight. For this, and the fact that it takes added skill and time to install, it is definitely more expensive than some of the other options on this list.

TYPE #4: CLAY TILE ROOFING SYSTEMS

Slightly heavier than slate, clay tiles come in many colors, shapes, and sizes, including flat shapes to mimic slate and wood. The most traditional variation, the rounded tiles that are common in many European cities, are either a one-part system, in which each tile has a rounded portion and water-collecting pan portion situated side by side.

Alternatively, it can be part of a two-part roofing system with a rounded top tile and a separate, flatter pan tile installed as separate pieces. Due to the fact that clay tiles are quite fragile, they need to be installed differently depending on the style of the tile and according to local codes. It is therefore necessary that they are done by trained professional roofers.

TYPE #5: METAL ROOFING SYSTEMS

Most modern metal roofing systems for homes is now called standing seam roofing and is a far cry from what you’d see on the mental topped sheds and storage facilities of years passed. Praised for its durability and fire resistance, standing seam metal roofing comes typically comes in prefabricated long strips or strips that are created on-site with special forming machines.

The name comes from the way in which these strips are connected, as an overlapping raised (standing) seam prevents water from getting through. In order to properly install a metal roof, you’ll need workers skilled in both roofing and metalworking.

TYPE #6: COMPOSITE & RUBBER ROOFING SYSTEMS

Among the most environmentally friendly types of roofing systems, composite and rubber roofing are made from recycled materials. Typically composed of used tires, this style can then be modelled to look like other roofing styles, including slate and asphalt shingles.

At first, the price of composite roofing can seem high, but it is important to keep in mind that it carries with it a lifespan of more than 50 years. Alongside relatively low installation costs, composite and rubber roofing is a good option for anyone looking to invest in an ecologically friendly roofing solution.

TYPE #7: SOLAR TILE ROOFING SYSTEMS

Another green roofing system type, there are now a number of products on the market that incorporate solar collection into the actual roofing material.…

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As a homeowner, knowing how to care for your roof can be an intimidating process. No matter what roof type your home has, you can ensure it lasts to its expected service life with the right level of care and maintenance. Committing to timely inspections and roof maintenance can prevent the need for extensive repairs from water leaks and other problems, and even the early replacement of your entire roof. These roofing tips will help ensure your roof lasts its expected service lifespan.

Thoroughly Inspect Shingles Each Season

Each season comes with problems unique to the weather patterns common during that time. Hot, humid months bring excessive sun damage and potential hurricane damage, and cold wintery months bring snow storms and potential for leaks caused by melting ice and snow. Therefore, it is important that you perform a thorough inspection of your shingles and other roofing materials each and every season. Look at the shingles for signs of excessive wear or damage, making sure to note any that are outright missing and need to be replaced. Check the integrity of the caulk around the flashing, as well as your vent pipes. Note any areas that have moss or lichen, as that indicates the potential for material decay beneath those shingles. Address any problems you find right away to prevent small, easily repairable issues from escalating.

Treat for Moss, Lichen, and Algae Annually

Allowing moss, lichen, and algae to grow on your roof can lead to extensive damage and an overall unsightly appearance. This often occurs during warmer months in shady areas of your roof. You can easily remove these growths by having your roof cleaned by a professional. Once your roof is clean and dry, you can apply preventative products containing zinc and copper that will keep the moss, lichen, and algae from growing back. When applied annually, these products effectively prohibit growth of all substances on your shingles.

Clean and Maintain the Gutters

When kept in great condition, your gutters protect your roof by directing water and debris away from your roof and home foundation. To ensure your gutters can do their job correctly, you must keep them free of leaves, sticks, and other debris. If you do not have trees close to your home, cleaning your gutters at least twice a year to keep water flowing properly. If you have trees on your property or live in an area like North Carolina that experiences semi-regular hurricanes, cleaning your gutters on a quarterly basis will keep them working correctly.

Remove Leaves and Debris From Your Roof on a Regular Basis

With the removal of roof debris, you effectively protect your home from damage and even prevent the growth of moss, lichen, and algae. Your gutters will not catch all of the leaves and debris that may land on your roof, especially after heavy storms. Therefore, it is important to regularly check your roof for debris and remove it promptly.

Trim Branches Hanging Near Your Roofline

Trimming large trees near your home, especially those that hang over your roof, can protect your home from damage caused by impacts and debris accumulation. Heavy storms and natural disasters like hurricanes and tornadoes can cause tree limbs to fly freely, potentially damaging your roof. Trim branches that hang too close to your roof or look like they might break in a storm. It is recommended that you check the growth of the tree branches around your home on an annual basis to determine when they need a trim.

Replace the Caulk Around Flashings as Needed

Your roof has flashing around the chimney and vent pipes to prevent water from leaking into your home. To ensure the flashing on your roof can protect against water leaks, you should inspect and replace the caulk on an annual basis. During the inspection, check to see if the caulk is missing or starting to lift up in any areas. If so, simply scrape away the old caulk and apply a new bead to fill the gap.

Ensure Your Attic Has Good Insulation

Without proper insulation, snow and ice accumulated on your roof during winter will start to melt at the lowest layer, allowing the water to refreeze around your shingles. If there is an ice dam on your roof, which prevents water from properly draining from the gutters, this melting process can cause extensive damage to the shingles and roof itself very quickly. The insulation in your attic helps to protect against this damage by keeping the heat in your home from escaping through the roof. Installing high-quality insulation, such as R-49 and R-60, in your attic space will go a long way in preventing this issue.

Understand the Impact of Sun Exposure on Your Roof

Sunlight over time can have a devastating impact on the condition of your roof.…

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­When you think of a metal roof, you might have an image of a dilapidated old lean-to with a corrugated tin roof. Today’s metal roofs, however, are a far cry from that image.

Today roofs are usually made of an asphalt/fiberglass combination or wood shingles. Some small, flat roofs are done with tar, while rubber is quickly becoming another easy roofing option. As people aim to live “greener” and find materials that require less maintenance and upkeep, new trends are emerging­ in the roofing industry. Though metal roofs can be expensive and require professional installation, they’re becoming a popular roofing material choice because of their longevity. Aluminum and steel are the most common metals used for roofing, but you might even be able to get a copper roof. Either way, you certainly won’t be stuck with corrugated tin — today’s metal roofing materials can be for­med to look like many other more traditional roofing materials, from Spanish tiles to slate [source: Vandervort].

­Metal roofs are also becoming increasingly popular because of their fire-resistance. They’re also lightweight and reflect the sun, which can help lower summer cooling bills — a nice added bonus. And although metal roofs often require professional installation, they’re still easier and quicker to install than traditional roofs [source: Vandervort]. One drawback, though — metal roofs are supposed to be long-lasting, but if you do have to make any modifications or repairs, it can be more difficult than it is with traditional roofing materials.

In this article we’ll explain metal roofing materials, as well roofing underlayment materials. Grab your hard hat and read on to find out about the five main types of materials used in metal roofing.

Metal Roofing Materials

Now you know that your new metal roof won’t be corrugated tin­. There are five basic metals — varying in longevity and price — that are used for roofing.

• Steel — Steel is the most common metal roofing material. It’s sturdy, and experts have spent a lot of time determining the best ways to protect it from rust. Manufactures generally use a zinc coating, a sealant and some heavy-duty paint to protect the material from the elements.
• Stainless steel — This option doesn’t need the extra coatings that steel does because it’s designed not to rust. However, because of its built-in anti-corroding properties, stainless steel is a pretty expensive metal roofing option. If you’re interested in a stainless-steel roof without the cold, clinical look of steel, there are coatings that can make it look more natural.
• Aluminum — If you’re looking for something lightweight that won’t rust, aluminum could be your metal roofing material of choice. Like stainless steel, though, you’ll need to coat it so that it looks more natural. This is the most popular option for residential metal roofing, so there is some concern about using this finite natural resource for roofing when other materials could be used.
• Copper — This option is becoming more and more popular, especially as an accent choice on houses and buildings, though you won’t see a shiny penny for very long. Over time, copper will weather to a green color that you may notice on older buildings. Though copper can be very strikingly beautiful, whether as a new shiny reddish-gold or an oxidized blue-green patina, it’s also very expensive.
• Alloys — You can use various different metal alloys for metal roofing materials, depending on what you’re interested in. Maybe you need a lot of strength or want it to last for a long time. You can get differently formulated alloys to fit your needs. Though cost is determined by exactly what the alloy consists of, these can be an expensive metal roofing option [source: Vandervort].

Read on to find out what goes underneath those metal materials.A Real Lifetime Guarantee

Ready for your roof to outlive you? You might want to switch to a metal roofing material. While regular shingle roofs last between 12 and 17 years, a metal roof can last more than 50. Trying a copper or aluminum roof? Be prepared for your roof to achieve septuagenarian status — these roofs can last more than 75 years [source: New England Metal Roof]!­

Roofing Underlayment Materials

With all the seams in a roof — especially with traditional shingles — there has to be a layer of protection between the roofing materials and your house. That’s where roofing underlayment materials come into play.

It used to be that an asphalt-saturated building paper acted as a weather barrier between roofing materials and the roof [source: Toolbase]. Today, there are many options for roofing underlayment materials — rubberized asphalt to organic, fiberglass to synthetic. The right underlayment for your roof will keep moisture, cold weather and stifling summer air out, giving your roof a longer life. Many have anti-slip technology to protect the people who install the roof, and they can be exposed for up to six months while the roof gets built.…

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an also be a plus if and when you decide to sell your new home.

2. Trim troublesome trees. When admiring your home and surrounding landscape, it’s important not to overlook leaning branches seeking companionship with your roof as they can scratch and gouge your roof materials. To prevent damaging or puncturing your shingles, simply trim back and remove any branches getting too close to your roof.

3. Clean the leaves and other debris. In addition to bothersome branches, leaves and other elements can clog your gutter system and cause water to back up into the attic, living areas, or behind the fascia boards. To ensure your drainage system is free-flowing, it’s recommended that you clean your roof at least twice per year. Also, be on the lookout for sagging gutters or damaged drain components and repair or replace them as needed.

4. Ensure the roof is built to breathe. Without proper ventilation, heat and moisture can cause sheathing and rafting to rot, roof materials to buckle, and insulation to lose effectiveness. This will cause your overall roofing system to be ineffective.  

5. Include insulation. The best way to achieve appropriate ventilation and good airflow is through proper insulation. To protect a house from heat gain or loss, it’s ideal to include a gap-free layer of insulation on the attic floor and a vapor retarder under the insulation next to the ceiling to stop moisture from rising into the attic. Having open, vented spaces that allow air to pass freely with at least one inch between the insulation and roof sheathing is also ideal.

6. Check for attic aftermath. In addition to having a well-insulated attic, it’s a good idea to check for water stains and weak shingles after a heavy storm.

7. Safeguard against streaking. Make sure to pay close attention to the color of your roof. Roof areas, generally the northern part, exposed to shade during long periods of time in humidity will eventually become streaked with mold, algae or even fungus. And if left unchecked, will eventually deteriorate the roofing material shortening the life of the roof, which could lead to leaks and other signs of trouble.

To cut the mold situation completely, it’s a great idea to install zinc strips, like Shingle Shield Roof Protector strips, along the ridge of the roof. They are precision-engineered to provide environmentally safe (EPA approved), long-term (average home 20 years) roof protection from fungus, moss, mildew or algae attack.

8. Check for signs of shingle damage. Being exposed to everyday wear and tear from various elements can cause shingles to become dilapidated and get torn off, making a roof structure and interior space vulnerable to water seepage and rot. Thus, it’s highly advisable for homeowners to examine roof coverings each year to ensure their integrity.

9. DIY roof repairers. Those bold enough to attempt roof repairs themselves need to bear in mind that it’s dangerous up there. It’s advisable to stay on a firmly braced ladder equipped with rubber safety feet when possible. If you do decide to walk on the roof, it’s best to wear rubber-soled shoes to prevent slipping.

10. Quality roofing quotes. When repairs go beyond a DIY project, you should make sure to do some homework before calling in the cavalry. It’s advisable to get at least two quotes so you can determine the best combination of quality and price. Think long-term and not cheap when choosing a roofing company and it’ll save you a lot of repair costs down the road.  

Bottom line: It’s important to remember the roofline. Taking a top-down approach with yearly inspections and utilizing these quick tips and tricks will help preserve and protect your interior living space for many years to come.…

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