Tag: Asphalt Shingling - page 4

Preventative maintenance is crucial when it comes to staying ahead of major problems that can arise around your home.  It is easy to overlook simple safeguards when your home is functioning properly.  An easy way to ensure that your home is cared for on a regular basis is to create a weekly, monthly, seasonal and yearly plan of action to anticipate problems before they occur.   A roof inspection is one of the most important yearly inspections that you can do for your homes well being.

Three quarters of inspecting your homes roof can be done from the ground.  In fact the less you walk around on the shingles the better for your roof and the safer you will be.  Work around the home from the ground; grab a pair of binoculars to help view potential problems without ever getting on a ladder.

Here is what to look for:

–          Worn caulking that appears to be cracking

–          Rust build up or spots starting to show on flashing

–          Buckling, curling, cracking or blistered asphalt shingle materials

–          Shingles that are missing or broken

–          Rubber boots around vent pipes that are worn or cracking

–          Damage to the chimney cap

–          A build up of moss, algae or lichen as this can signal roof decay (It is important to note that black algae is cosmetic)

At any point if you see asphalt grit in the gutters it is a bad sign.  The granules from the asphalt protect the roofing shingles from the ultraviolet rays that can cause extreme damage.  If you begin to see your shingles are losing granolas it is a sure signal that you roof is aging and is close to the end of its life cycle.

Not all roofing problems require a professional roofing contractor to fix them.  However, if the homeowner is unsure of heights or has an issue with getting on the roof it is advisable that a roofing contractor is called in to repair even the most minor of issues.

Most homeowners can fix loose, damaged or missing shingles or replace cracked caulking around flashing.  Nails on the roof that have popped out of place can easily be tapped back into place by even novice do it yourselfers.  Simple roofing repairs require about half a day and can be done for around thirty dollars.  A bundle of asphalt shingles is about twenty four dollars and roofing caulk and tar costs around six dollars per tube.

If you notice that the caulk around the metal or vinyl flashing, chimneys, sky lights or attic vents is separating the old caulk should be removed, the area cleaned and new caulk installed.   If the vent boot or flashing itself has begun to visually deteriorate it is important that the piece itself is replaced.

When repairs are beyond what homeowners feel comfortable tackling on their own a professional should be called in.  When hiring a professional roofing contractor it is best to seek bids from at least two roofing companies.  Minor repairs can be done by most handymen inexpensively if you are in a hurry. It is best however to establish a relationship with a roofing contractor as you never know when an emergency is going to strike and you will need more than just an ordinary, everyday handyman.

Home Pro Roofing contractors offer a variety of roofing services throughout Brighton, East Lansing, Ann Arbor, Fenton and Commerce Township, including installation of shingle roofs, metal roofing and roof repairs.  You will find them at http://www.homeproroofingmi.com today.

Home trends change with the tides; from one year to another what is popular in home improvements evolve.  In 2016 trends for the home improvement industry look to include smaller homes with the addition of tech savvy features; homes that appeal to younger families who live the on the go life style.  Home purchasers are more intuitive than ever before. They know exactly what they are looking for n a home.  Whether the homes on the market are move in ready or ready for renovation eager first time home buyers are ready to change the direction of home improvements.

One trend in home improvements that is changing the way homeowners manage their homes revolves around smartphones.  Homeowners are eager to take advantage of the easy to use apps now available to manage their homes.  With the possibility of home management being at their finger tips homebuyers are looking to upgrade their homes for convenience. Smart apps make daily household chores less time-consuming while also creating an environment that reduces energy consumption and allows homeowners to live green.

Another popular trend in home improvement include open floor plans that allow the kitchen, dining and living room areas to flow into one another without the distraction of walls and barriers. What occurs when homes are renovated in this fashion is an area that creates a large gathering space.  IT is no secret that the kitchen space is the gathering hot spot in most homes.  While the homeowner/hostess is busy in the kitchen space they can continue to enjoy the presence of their other guests.  Open floor plans are the must have renovation of 2016.

An exterior trend in roofing that is sure to top the most popular home improvement projects of 2016 is incorporating solar energy.  Roofing contractors believe that this is the year that homeowners embrace the trend of harnessing the power of the sun to use that energy to run their homes.  This would reduce the cost of utilities while decreasing the negative effects on the environment.  Roofing contractor’s suggesting that the future of roofing is all about longevity, recyclability and what the roofing offers to the homeowner.

2016 is the year for homeowners to not only consider the environment in their home improvement projects but also themselves.  The get-away-room is a popular concept with the arrival of the open floor plan. Everyone needs a minute alone. Some homeowners choose a spa like bathroom for their retreat but this is not always optimal.  A space that is created to invite homeowners to relax and enjoy their homes alone is a popular home renovation in 2016; this includes small cozy reading nooks to recreation spaces.  Whatever space is assured to offer the homeowner peace and tranquility is a popular home improvement option in 2016.

Home Pro Roofing contractors offer a variety of roofing services throughout Brighton, East Lansing, Ann Arbor, Fenton and Commerce Township, including installation of shingle roofs, metal roofing and roof repairs.  You will find them at http://www.homeproroofingmi.com today.

Homeownership is one of the largest responsibilities that a person can take on. Homes are one of the single most expensive purchases most people make in their lifetime. Owning a home is largely rewarding especially when actions are taken to properly maintain it. This doesn’t mean that it is without its hassles though. Unexpected occurrences have a way of turning into unforeseen repairs and surprise expenses. One area often overlooked is your homes roof. This is an expense that you want to be prepared for as a new roof is a financial commitment in itself.

Your homes roof is an essential element of your home. A lot goes into building your homes roof therefore a lot must go into maintain it. There are many different ways to go about this. One way is to hire a professional roofing contractor once a year. They will come out, get on the roof and physically inspect and repair any faulty areas within the roof and its structure. Another way is to come up with a safe maintenance plan that you yourself can use to inspect the roof at the beginning of the spring and fall seasons. Maintaining and protecting your homes roof from the elements is fundamental to ensure the safety and comfort of your family.

The climate throughout the North is often unpredictable no matter what season we are in. We can always expect inclement weather which will unfortunately impact your home, especially the roof. You must maintain and prepare your roof for everything that is possible from high winds, tornadoes, hail, ice, wet snow and more. The weather is especially uncertain throughout the summer and winter; take time in the spring and fall to ensure gutters are clear, shingle replaced, tar and caulk applied and repairs to the structure are made.

If you are currently unsure about the condition of your homes roof it is best to hire a professional roofing contractor to inspect it. While they are there have them go over what they are checking for in order to create a checklist for yourself. Have the roofer give you an estimate on labor costs to repair the roof so that you can start stashing cash away now. If upon inspection they find that the roof is too far gone to be repaired and needs to be replaced you can have them prepare a quote on the spot. This will give you a ball park figure to work with and something to compare other quotes too.

Home Pro Roofing contractors offer a variety of roofing services throughout Brighton, East Lansing, Ann Arbor, Fenton and Commerce Township, including installation of shingle roofs, metal roofing and roof repairs. You will find them athttp://www.homeproroofingmi.com today.

Your homes foundation, without a doubt, is the most important aspect in creating a stable, lasting home.  The second being your roof as it is needed for stability as well as protection, sheltering you and your belongings from the elements.  Careful consideration is needed when choosing a roofing material for your home.  Take into consideration the style of the home as well as the local climate when deciding what material you will use to cover your homes roof.

There are five basic styles of roofing, each with their own advantages and disadvantages.  Asphalt, shingles, wood, slate and tile shingles being the most commonly used materials in roofing.

Asphalt Shingles 

Asphalt shingles are the most commonly used especially in climates with a variety of weather conditions.  They are not only durable but also easy to install and less expensive than most roofing materials.  Asphalt shingles are good for a variety of roof pitches however should not be used with flat roofs.  There are two types of asphalt shingles including fiberglass and organic.  Fiberglass shingles are lighter, more resistant to fire and better in warm climates than organic shingles.  Organic shingles are good in a variety of weather and remain flexible under freezing conditions making them a better choice for colder climates.

Metal Shingles 

Metal roofing is a popular option as it offers both durability and attractiveness.  One drawback is the expense. Metal roofing is about one third more expensive then asphalt.  They are by far the lightest material that can be used in roofing including aluminum, steel, and copper.  One disadvantage is that metal can be dented in hail storms although new finishes eliminate rust and fading.  If you choose copper it is important to know it can last for up to a hundred years however is higher priced than other metal roofing.

Wood Shingles 

The most common wooden shingles is made from cedar although pine and spruce can be used as well.  Wood is a less durable option than other roofing materials.  The normal life span of a cedar roof is about thirty years.  The cost of the materials are often less than others however the labor expense outweighs that of asphalt, metal, slate and tile.

Slate Shingles 

Slate is considered to have the most longevity out of any other roofing material.  Slate lasts upwards of a hundred years.  It also comes in a variety of colors and designs which make is a popular choice.  To get this curb appeal to adjourn your homes prepare to shell out some major money.  Slate can cost more than four times the average cost of other roofing materials.

Tile Shingles 

Tile shingles are available in concrete, runner and clay.  Depending on the material chosen will depend on the cost you should expect to pay.  One major disadvantage of tile roofing is the weight of the tiles.  This alone may make this option obsolete for your home.  Tile does offer durability and lasts about fifty years.

Whatever type of roof you select it won’t last to its potential without being installed by an experienced roofing contractor.  Weigh the advantages and disadvantages with each roofing material against one another while considering local experienced roofing contractors that can install a new roof with the material of choice.

Home Pro Roofing contractors offer a variety of roofing services throughout Brighton, East Lansing, Ann Arbor, Fenton and Commerce Township, including installation of shingle roofs, metal roofing and roof repairs.  You will find them at http://www.homeproroofingmi.com today.

How do homeowners go about getting the roof they want within their set budget?  It can be done however takes a bit of diligence.  It takes defining alternatives, knowing exactly what you need and outline a definitive budget to stay within during the roofing project.  Below you will find steps to refine your roofing project.

Assess your roofing needs.  Do you need to install a whole new roof or can you get by with repairs to the existing roof?  Homeowners may choose to just repair a leaky roof over replacing it because of the lower cost and smaller time constraint.  However to make the decision between repair and replacement there are a list of factors to consider.  It may be a better option to replace a leaking roof depending on the age of the existing roofing structure and materials as well as its history.  Do you believe the roof will need ongoing repairs?  If this is the case, or with older roofs it may end up being that a full roof replacement is the most cost effective strategy.  Sometimes repairing a roof can be tricky especially when trying to locate matching materials.

Learn about the style of your roof as well as its structure and design to determine the selection of roofing materials you can choose from.   Depending on the weight baring capability and structure under the existing roof limits may apply to the materials you can choose from.  Tile and slate require additional support due to their weight where as lighter materials like metal and asphalt work well on most roof structures without additional structural support.  Consider the number of slopes, gables, stories and roofing angels that your roofing contractor will have to navigate.  These variables add additional fees into the labor cost over large, single story roofs without a steep pitch or varied angles to negotiate while installing your new roof.

Look into the cost of both materials and labor.  The material you choose to have installed on your new roof will help in determining the costs involved.  The cost of both material and labor increase when you choose more specialized materials such as metal, tile, slate or wood over asphalt shingles.  Each material requires special installation that not every roofing contractor as experience in.  In order to ensure your roof is aesthetically please hire a roofing contractor that specializes in the material you have chosen.  This will add to the labor costs but is essential to ensuring the longevity and curb appeal of your new roof.

It is your home and all home improvements should be done to your specifications.  You as the homeowner are the one that will be living with the choices made for years to come.  Take your time when choosing a material and contractor for your new roof.

Home Pro Roofing contractors offer a variety of roofing services throughout Brighton, East Lansing, Ann Arbor, Fenton and Commerce Township, including installation of shingle roofs, metal roofing and roof repairs.  You will find them at http://www.homeproroofingmi.com today.

It is important for homeowners to consider what they want in a new roof, roof replacement or roof repair and how to go about getting it within their allotted budget.  In order to do this it is crucial that you know exactly what you can afford to spend on the venture and define cost saving alternatives available to help make your project work within your allotted budget.  Below you will find steps to help you refine the roofing process.

Should you replace or repair your roof?

This question is one that is not easily answered.  In order to determine if your roof is in need of repair or replacing you must take into a variety of considerations.  Repairing a leak in your shingle roof may be a preferable option over a complete roof replacement due to lower cost and time restrictions.  However, there are several things to consider before jumping to that conclusion.  Some of the things you will need to look at are the age of the roof, the history of previous repairs on the roof and the consideration of finding materials that will match the existing roof structure.

How will the structure and design of your roof affect the materials available and cost of labor?

The selection of roofing materials to choose from in replacing your roof will be limited to the underlying structure of the roof.  Not all existing structures can support new materials.  It isn’t common to replace a shingle roof with tile or slate which is the heaviest of roofing materials.  Different roofing materials, as well as the design and angles of your roof can increase the cost of a new roof significantly.

What style and cost considerations are there?

When looking into putting a new roof on your home you must take into consideration the style of your home.  If you have a shingle roof budget but a villa style home you need to seriously consider one of two things: saving more money or looking for a material that is complementary to the homes style that fits within your allotted budget.  It is crucial to the curb appeal of your home to consider the aesthetics of the new roof.

Who will you choose as your roofing contractor?

A quality roofing contractor is even more important than superior quality roofing materials.  Instead of looking for the lowest bid look for an experienced roofing contractor that has a proven record for installing the materials you are choosing for your new roof.  Quality installation makes the difference in all home improvement projects your roof included.

Home Pro Roofing contractors offer a variety of roofing services throughout Brighton, East Lansing, Ann Arbor, Fenton and Commerce Township, including installation of shingle roofs, metal roofing and roof repairs.  You will find them at http://www.homeproroofingmi.com today.

Maintenance is an important aspect in home ownership.  From your homes roof to the homes foundation it is important that your home is kept up on.  Often time’s homeowners overlook the maintenance that needs to be done on their roofs.  There are several steps to take in order to prevent the decay of your asphalt shingle roof.  Below you will find several tips on keeping your homes roof in tip top shape.

One of the first things that you will want to do when maintain your roof is to clear any and all debris.  Anything that has built up behind heating and cooling units, pipes or other parts protruding from the roof needs to be removed to prevent moisture build up and the growth of moss.  Debris soaks up water and water saturation is the leading cause of damage in asphalt shingling.  This process should be done in the spring and fall seasons.

Often times a shingle roof will quickly manifest moss and algae growth.  This can happen even when homeowners are closely monitoring the condition of their roofs.  If you notice this has occurred it is easily remedied by applying zinc or lead control strips at the peak.  After this is done check all flashing for holes and for algae and moss growth.  This should carefully be removed.  If you notice any shingle tabs that have loosened secure them by adding roofing cement.  Any shingle that is broken or damaged should be removed and replaced with a new one.  This will help prevent damage from occurring underneath the shingle and seeping into the structure underneath.

If your home has gutters it is important that they are kept clean and downspouts are clear.  This helps to ensure proper water flow control.  Tree branches that overhang the roof should be trimmed to help prevent branches and debris from falling into the gutters.  Gutter cleaning should be done at least two times a year.  Any time you visually see debris take the time to clean the gutters as improperly draining gutters can take years off of the lifetime of your shingle roofing.

Maintaining your homes roof is often simple and just a matter of knowing how your climate affects the shingles.  Asphalt shingles are meant to thrive in the northern climates.  They are resistant to heat, humidity, cold, ice and water.  With periodic checks and minor maintenance your shingle roof should have a solid lifetime.

Maintenance is the key to prevent major issues in and outside of your home.  Small activities to maintain your home are much simpler and less expensive than the more complicated costly repairs once something does fail.

Home Pro Roofing contractors offer a variety of roofing services throughout Brighton, East Lansing, Ann Arbor, Fenton and Commerce Township, including installation of shingle roofs, metal roofing and roof repairs.  You will find them at http://www.homeproroofingmi.com today.

When you are updating your homes roof you are not only making a large financial investment but also an extreme makeover on the overall look of your home.  The shelf life of your roof can be upwards of thirty years.  It is crucial you choose a color shingle that is not only strong and reliable but also pleasing to the overall look and style of your home.  Below are some tips to help you when choosing a color for the shingles for your homes new roof.

Don’t rush it

The shingle color of your new roof should not be rushed.  A new roof is something that takes serious consideration and considerable thought.  The color of the shingle is something you will have to live with for a substantial period of time.  It will also affect the value of your home in years to follow.   Don’t rush choosing a color of shingling for your new roof.

Talk with your roofing contractor

Ask for an opinion from roofing contractors that are estimating the cost of your new roof.  They have presumably seen a million different combinations of shingle colors and exteriors that work well with one another.  They can share colors that compliment your home’s exterior structure and current siding.  When choosing a shingle color choose one that does not clash with the trim and siding as these larger pieces have the biggest impact on your homes curb appeal.

Go over all of your options

Within the shingle market there are many different, unique options.  Consider your homes architecture to help guide your new shingle purchase.  Does your exterior mix better with a singular color shingle or a blend of multiple color shingles?

Use available technology

Technology is one of the greatest tools in home renovations of our generation.  Many shingle manufactures and roofing contractors have the ability to download a photo of your current home while uploading different color shingles and roofing combinations.  This can help you visualize the new roof with the current exterior or future updated exterior changes.

Examine the shingles in person

Look at the shingles in person.  The colors of the shingles will look different in person.  You should have your roofing contractor take the different color samples up on to the roof while you roof at them from below.  Something that is busy up close may be the perfect blend at a distance.

Check out the roofs in your neighborhood

Don’t go radically different when choosing a color for your shingles than that of our neighbors especially within a neighborhood where homes are lumped closely together.  Your home will look out of place and will garner unwanted negative attention.  You don’t want your house to be known as the house that is totally out of place.

Understand your home’s unique style

Although you don’t want your home to stand out as radically different from the others you do want it to stick out.  Compliment your home’s unique style with shingles that are unique but flattering in a positive way.

Home Pro Roofing contractors offer a variety of roofing services throughout Brighton, East Lansing, Ann Arbor, Fenton and Commerce Township, including installation of shingle roofs, metal roofing and roof repairs.  You will find them at http://www.homeproroofingmi.com today.

Hiring anyone to work on or within your home can not only be confusing but challenging as well.  In order to find a contractor to install or repair your new roof, review the list of helpful tips below.

An insured roofing contractor is a must:  Before you sign on the dotted line or hire anyone to install your new roof or repair your old roof it is crucial to see paperwork to validate their workers’ compensation and liability insurance.  The liability of injury and damage should be on the roofing contractor and his company not on you as a homeowner.  Any roofing contractor unwilling to show proof of either document should not be considered.

Choose a local company with a proven reputation:  Hiring a local roofing company with an established reputation in the community is good for your local economy.  Hiring locally also allows you to hold the company responsible for the work they have done on your roof is something does come up and warranty work is needed.  Companies that don’t have a local state are often not as concerned with their reputation and therefore not as eager to complete repairs or warranty work that is their responsibility under your contract.

Don’t look only at the cost:   Don’t choose a roofing contractor based on price alone.  Roofing contractors that offer cheap bids often do so to run down the market.  In order to keep up with overhead costs and proper insurance low roofing bids are often unheard of.   Not only are you paying for the labor of having the new roof installed but the materials to be used on your roof as well.  Make sure that your roofing contractor is using quality materials with reputable warranties and that this is written directly into the contract itself.

Remember it is your time and money:  You should be in control of the work on your home.  Don’t pay the entire amount due ahead of time on any job done on your home including a new roof.  Reputable roofing contractors may ask for a deposit upfront to purchase materials and reserve a time for your roof to be installed; never will the full amount be asked for upfront to ensure complete client satisfaction before full payment is made.  The terms of your payment need to be discussed, agreed upon and written in a formal contract before work is begun on your home.

Communication is key to success:  When you were pursuing them for a quote were they prompt?  Did they return calls?  Was documentation sent when it was asked for?  Did the company follow through?  Don’t hire a roofing contractor that does not communicate with you.  Communication is a key element to working with a contractor on any job around your home especially your homes roof.

Home Pro Roofing contractors offer a variety of roofing services throughout Brighton, East Lansing, Ann Arbor, Fenton and Commerce Township, including installation of shingle roofs, metal roofing and roof repairs.  You will find them at http://www.homeproroofingmi.com today.