Your roof is a critical component of the structure of your house. It not only protects you against practically everything outdoors but also insulates and offers a proper ventilation system for your house. The chimney on top of your roof is very important in this final function and helps to ensure the proper balance of air that is exchanged between the interior and exterior of your home.

However, like the other parts of a roof, the chimney cap may also suffer from damage. So what should you do when this occurs? No, you shouldn't pick up the tools that you bought at the hardware store and your ladder and try to fix it yourself. Instead, call your trusted professional roofing company.

Why does my Chimney Cap need to be repaired?

If you have a faulty chimney the dangers might not be completely obvious other than the rainwater that is seeping in from your chimney. However, a damaged chimney cap may lead to a number of different issues both your roof and the interior of your home.

Obviously, rainwater is able to seep through a chimney cap that is broken. Also, the moisture may also damage the bricks and shingles that are on the roof surrounding the chimney.

Any moisture that seeps into the inside of our home through your chimney is also a very serious problem. The accumulation of moisture can cause mildew and mold to grow as well. And everyone knows just how harmful mold may be to your health and to your property.

A faulty chimney cap may also promote rust from developing faster than other types of chimney-related structures. Also, it causes branches, dirt, leaves, and other debris builds up and can clog the entrance, which interferes with the overall function of the chimney and its ventilation.  

A faulty chimney cap also can invite animals and pest to seek shelter inside the chimney. Raccoons and squirrels may get into your house if your chimney is not properly sealed with its cap.

Licensed Roofers for Repairing Your Chimney Cap

The initial step of the repair process is to select the proper chimney cap to use on your chimney. A professional team of roofers that can guide you through the process and assist you with efficiently and quickly installing the cap.

Ultimate Roofing is a high quality and professional roofing company in Albany and serving the greater Capital Region!

Everyone knows the real estate market is very competitive. If you are planning on jumping on the bandwagon, you need to be prepared for a lot of criticism and rejection. Also, if you really would like to make a very good impression on your buyer, then you will need to be able to show your home's true value.   

Does that mean that you also need to completely redo your old roof?

There is no definite answer to this question. It depends on your roof's current condition and how well it has been maintained over the years. If you have been neglecting inspections and repairs, there is a good chance your roof may bring the overall value of your house down. That will make it more difficult to sell.  

But if your roof is in great condition it isn't necessary to have a bunch of fancy upgrades done. Of course, if you would like to add new roofing trends to your home, that is a different situation. Even then, you will have to keep a close watch on your budget anytime you are considering redoing a roof that is well maintained.

Why does your roof matter when you are selling your home?

Whenever you put your home up for sale, potential buyers will analyze all aspects of it. Your roof is the most important and first thing that people notice even before they step inside the front door. And everyone knows how critical that a first impression may be.   

Aside from your home and roof's overall appeal, buyers do not want to purchase a house that is going to need major renovations done to it. So if your roof needs to be repaired and is in poor condition, then that might turn the buyer off. That is when it is necessary to redo your roof.

A roof that is redone and replaced also will look much fresher even when the older roof was in good condition - you still cannot compare an old roof with one that has been newly replaced. Also, an upgraded roof that follows the roofing market's contemporary trends is also likely that it will do well within the marketplace. Your house will stand out from all of your neighbors' houses, and it will improve your home's overall curb appeal as well.

Ultimate Roofing is a high quality and professional roofing contractor in Albany and serving the greater Capital Region!

Roofing trends, similar to mainstream fashion, are constantly changing, although a lot more slowly. There is a tendency for roofing trends to move in a direction that considers not only aesthetics but also a stronger foundation, greener material, and better performance. The following are our favorite remodeling ideas for your roof and why you might want to consider them.

Synthetic underlayment to increase the lifespan of your roof

Many people are not aware that under the layer of shingles, is a layer of material that is even stronger, keeps your roof in good condition and prevents it from bending in a raging storm. For years the underlayment was ignored and for quite some time felt underlayment was the only type that was available for a majority of homes.  

However, these days synthetic underlayment like those that are made out of polyurethane has been breaking records within the roofing market - for very good reason. This kind of underlayment has improved durability and strength in addition to better resistance against moisture. Therefore, polyurethane alternatives may prove to increase your roof's lifespan for several years.

To lower your utility bills, invest in cool roof shingles

Lately, everyone has been talking about cool roof shingles. Many roofing brands are now developing these great shingles and provide not only a healthier and greener function but help to insulate your house much better as well. That means your electricity bills might drop also.  

Adhesives for combatting raging winds

A serious storm can take all of the life from your roof and so that is why it is so important to take steps before the storm hits to improve the overall strength and durability of your roof. Investing in shingles and strong adhesives like ArmorShield and Dura Grip before the rains start. Those roofs and strong adhesives can withstand strong winds up to 150 mph. That means you won't have post-storm roofing repairs to deal with.

Improve your roof's beauty with architectural 3D asphalt shingles

Contemporary means beautiful as well. Improve the looks of your roof by using architectural 3D asphalt shingles that work by mimicking the luxury effect that cedar shakes offer but at a price that is much more affordable. Those shingles are available in different textured looks and colors to make them completely unique.

Ultimate Roofing is a high quality and professional roofing company serving Albany and the greater Capital Region!

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Your roof's worst enemy is raging wind. The stormy season may bring winds that are stronger than 100 km/hour, and that can be fatal or catastrophic for your roof. Although the materials that are used for building roofs are durable and strong, they can still bend under pressure. So what should you do after raging winds have blown through? Let's discuss this.

How Is Your Roof Damaged By Wind?  

A strong wind may damage your roof in multiple ways. One obvious way is the actual wind's force. Sometimes the pressure is so high that it can break shingles apart, rip them off of their underlayment and then blow them away. High winds can also carry debris such as branches, twigs and other objects and crash them into your roof. Debris buildup can seriously damage a roof.  

How to Conduct Your Own Roof Inspection

Even if you do not believe your roof has sustained wind-related damage, it is still a good idea to inspect it anyway. The best method is to carefully climb on your roof and inspect the flashing, shingles, and other elements of the roof. It is very important to not walk on your roof too much since it can not only be dangerous for you but also you may damage a weak roof if it is walked on too much.  

The only one who can perform an in-depth and proper roof inspection is a professional roofing company. However, if you would just like to get an idea of the extent of the damage that has been caused by high winds or other bad weather, then it won't hurt to conduct a quick DIY inspection on your own.

What Can Be Done About The Damage Suffered By My Roof?

There is really nothing that you can actively do when it comes to repairs except to call a licensed professional roofing company. It is important to act quickly since the longer that you wait to have the repairs done, the worse the problem could get.

Don't forget to research several different roofing companies and don't hire a door-to-door roof that comes out of nowhere following a bad storm that has hit your town!

Ultimate Roofing is a high quality and professional roofing contractor serving Albany and the greater Capital Region!

A roofing job is not a task for a dad who thinks that he can fix anything or a DIY enthusiast. A roof repair needs help from a professional and this means you will need to hire an experienced roofing contractor for the job. From major roof replacements to minor seasonal repairs, roofers are required to finish the job as effectively as possible.

However, should you just hire the first roofing company that you find in your search for roofers? No, not really. There are lots of questions that you need to consider before signing a contract with a roofer.  Here are some of the top questions:

1. Will you remove my old roof?

Most homeowners assume that professional roofers will be getting rid of their worn out old singles before they install a new roof. However, that does not always occur. It is very common, in fact, to find companies that make things easier on themselves and put a new roof right on top of the old one. That is poor quality work that may affect the function and life span of a newly installed roof. It is very important that you check with the roofer regarding what they are planning to do with the old roof.    

2. Will you be using metal edges and drip edges on my roof?

Metal or drip edges are useful pieces of aluminum for protecting your roof against water damages and leaks. These metal pieces are used for stabilizing shingles that come off. It also overhangs and helps to direct water into the nearby gutter. Without those important metal pieces, you may experience major water damage, and that is why it is best to ask your potential roofer about it.  

3. Will the roofer be using the right number of nails on each shingle?

About four nails are usually used per shingle the driven in the nail line. Maybe more may be used in areas of the roof that are too steep. However, anything less or that is too much over the appropriate limit may damage the shingles and also your roof. Also, it is very important to make sure the nails are driven in correctly and in the nail line. So you can ask your roofer about how they are planning on placing nails in the roof shingles before hiring them.

Ultimate Roofing is a high quality and professional roofer serving Albany and the greater Capital Region!
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Roofing is like any other industry in that it has special lingo all its own. Roofing terminology can be pretty confusing to someone who isn't familiar with the industry, and if you have yet to get any roof work done, then you likely don't know even the most basic terms. There is no need for embarrassment, however. We've encountered many homeowners over the course of time who simply had no idea just what we were talking to them about. If you're hoping to really give your roof appropriate attention, then it's a good idea to learn the lingo. Before you sign a contract with any roofer, educate yourself with at least the fundamental terminology roofers often use. This article lists some of the more frequently tossed around terms that roofers across the country use.

Keep reading into the following paragraphs to get familiar with the words you may soon be using and hearing. Learning some or all of these terms can help you be on the same wavelength as your roofer, making it easier to make decisions and voice your choices and concerns.

Asphalt Granules: These are the tiny particles that are on the surfaces of asphalt shingles. They're typically made from ceramic coated crushed rock. Granules improve how the shingles appear, improve your roof's fire resistance, and give it protection from sunlight. These granules can also get chipped off when the shingles suffer damage. They also might clog up your gutter, which can result in water damage.

Asphalt Shingle: This particular term probably isn't that hard to understand. Asphalt is quite a popular material used in shingle manufacturing or construction around the world. In fact, it's actually the most frequent choice for roofing material in the United States. Homeowners pick asphalt shingles given their comparatively low price, long lifespan, and easy installation.

Dormer: The dormer is specifically installed along the upper edges of your home's windows that's actually part of the roof's projecting slant. It adds another layer of protection to your home.

Eaves: This is that part of the roof that sticks out over the walls of your home.

Fascia: This is a layer of boards fitted on top of your rafters for another layer of protection. Fascia might also get fitted on your home's walls.

Ridge: This is an angle that is formed where two sloping roof planes wind up intersecting. It's an external angle.

Roof Flashing: These is made from special materials at transitional points or valleys in your roof so that they stay watertight and airtight. Roof flashing is an integral component of any particular installation process, and without it, your roof would be constantly exposed to potential leaks. Flashing typically happens around sky lights, chimneys, and other roof intersections.

Roof Gutters: Similar to lawn or bathroom gutters, these are here to drain water and prevent it from pooling on top. This is a water channel that rain water can go pouring down. Gutters are likely to get clogged when a roof isn't maintained, and that can trigger roof water damage.

Truss: In the roofing sense, a truss is a particular piece of material which adds some extra support to rafters.

Underlayment: An underlayment happens under a layer of shingles that offers the roof extra strength and protection.

Valleys: Roof valleys are any dip that is formed when a pair of downward slopes intersect with one another. They usually form a V-shaped area that needs flashing in order to stay watertight.

Vents: Roof vents are like vents that get installed inside your home. The purpose behind a vent is of course ventilation, providing your home fresh air. This can typically happen through the roof deck, but in truth, any extra outlet of air might also serve as a vent.

Ultimate Roofing is your premier roofing company serving Albany & the greater Capital Region!

Before you pick up your phone to call up the cheapest or nearest roofing contractor in your area, you should know a few guidelines that you should follow in order to be sure you're going to get great service. Unfortunately, in the world of roofing work, many homeowners wind up panicking and just don't feel like they need to follow these guidelines, which means that some eventually get some bad work done on their homes. If you'd like to personally avoid these mistakes, then keep reading to learn what they are!

1) Not Doing Enough Research About The Roofer:

When you are going to hire someone to do work for your home, you of course want an expert, and hopefully the best one available. However, if you're going to accomplish this, then you need some kind of proof that the professional or business you are looking at is actually as good as they claim they are. Many homeowners skip doing their due diligence, and skipping the research is something that can backfire really hard. You need to look at any business or roofing contractor in depth before you hire them. That means spending time reading testimonials and reviews from previous clients, especially at independent or neutral sites, because seriously, no business is posting negative reviews or bad testimonials on their own site. Also look for official business boards to check out their ratings.

2) Working With Any Roofer Who Doesn't Have Their License Or Insurance:

Your roofer should be licensed properly by the state. Equally important is having insurance. The reason this matters is because in any unforeseen circumstances, you aren't going to get held liable for any accidents that happen to either the roofer or your roof.

3) Failing To Get A Written Estimate:

One big point that you should remember is that before you hire your roofing contractor you need to get an estimate of any roofing work that needs to be done. An oral declaration about the estimate won't be enough. That means that you have to get your estimate in writing. Not only that, you need to have it signed so that if there are later discrepancies or disagreements, you'll then have written documents on your side.

4) Choosing The Cheapest Roofer:

This is definitely a frequent mistake that homeowners make when they hire a roofing contractor. Of course homeowners will be drawn to those roofers who offer low bids and estimates, but you should also remember that if something looks too good to be true, then it's likely a scam. Remember the earlier point about background-checking a company or contractor out. This will not only protect you from the cheapest contractors, but also the most expensive ones, because paying for the highest-cost options doesn't immediately mean you're going to get the best results.

Ultimate Roofing is a high quality and professional roofing contractor serving Albany and the greater Capital Region!

When a roof has damaged shingles, that doesn't always mean that the whole roof needs to be replaced. Quite often, a problem with multiple shingles or a single shingle can be cleared up by assistance from a professional roofer performing the appropriate repairs. Those repairs involve some mild damage to the shingles where your roof still has a sound overall quality.

How to replace a single shingle

If you see that you have only one shingle that is damaged, missing, or cracked while the adjacent shingles are still in good shape, then you probably just have to replace the broken one with a new shingle. You might have some shingles lying around in garage or attic from the prior roofing project.

To switch out one shingle, you just need to put a pry bar under the broken shingle. Then push on the bar in order to pull the shingle out of the nail. Slide a fresh piece in and ensure that it fits and perfectly aligns with the rest of your roof. Nail the shingle down in two rows using 4 galvanized nails on both sides.   

How to repair curled corners

Over time, shingles have a tendency to curl from a corner and that can reduce the overall efficacy of it. To repair the curled shingle corner, begin by applying roofing sealant using a caulking gun under the curled corner. The use something like a brick to push the curl down and leave it for around 24 hours.

Ultimate Roofing is a high quality and professional roofing contractor serving Albany and the greater Capital Region!

When you are searching for roofing professionals to repair your roof or to install a new one, it is natural to gravitate towards the least expensive bids. Roofing jobs can be expensive so when a roofing company offers you an incredibly low bid on your roofing project, you will want to sign the deal. However, is this the best thing to do?

If a bid is a lot lower than the price that another roofing company has quoted you, then there is a good chance that it is a scam. At first, you are content with the decision that you made and think you have saved lots of money on a really expensive roofing project but you may soon realize the final cost of your repair is a lot higher than the initial proposal. It might be possibly higher even than other company bids that you ignored as being too expensive compared to the low bid.   

The low bid scam is really common and many naive homeowners tend to fall victim to it. What the scamming company does it charge a lot more while performing the repair. They might say the cost of roofing materials have increased or they have found additional problems with the room and that more money will be needed to fix them.   

Ultimately, you will end up paying more money than the initial bid. If you refuse to pay it, the roof may leave your job halfway through which can be very problematic.

What Can You Do To Prevent Yourself From Being Scammed?

The most important thing that you need to protect yourself against this scam is vigilance. If a roofer offers you an incredibly low bid on the roofing job, it is your responsibility to do sufficient research on the roofer.  

You should ask the roofer about how they are planning to deal with any unforeseen roof problems. You also should ensure that the cost of damaged decking, materials, and labor all are included in your initial contract so that you won't have to additional payments throughout the repair process.  

It is critical to check the testimonials and credential for the company and also ensure the company is registered and licensed. Another good tip to prevent yourself against fraud is to not make a big deposit prior to the work starting.

Ultimate Roofing is a high quality and professional roofer serving Albany and the greater Capital Region!

Roof leaks are a subtle reminder of the damage they inflict on the underlying structure .It might not be so easy for you to pick up on the first indications of damage. Everything that lies beneath the ceiling can sustain severe water damage if you ignore a leak in your roof over an extended period. Your furniture, floor, walls and most importantly health, included.

Finding The Roof Leak

Even though finding a leak in your faucet seems more or less straightforward, finding one in your roof is everything but. You just can’t ignore a leaky roof, making it much more important than finding a leak in one of your faucets.

Finding the exact location of a leak can be quite challenging considering the fact that most of today’s roofs are slanted. The most restricted space, at the corner of your attic might be where the leak is. Or hidden close to the ceiling fan, you might find a tiny leak.  

The work of successfully finding a roof leak is better suited to a professional roofing company. To check your roof, these professional service providers use high-tech tools. To carefully check for and find roof leaks, a large number of modern service providers now use drones.

Uncovering The Cause Of The Leak

Although not the only one, rain water trickling through a compromised roof is definitely one of the most common reasons behind roof leaks. Roof leaks can also be caused by a combination of many reasons. For instance your roof might have cracks, holes and missing shingles if it is old and recently suffered damage associated with strong winds. Leaks into the underlying structure might be as a result of water trickling down any of these openings.  

Blocked drain pipes are also considered to be a major cause of roof leaks. The blockage can cause roof leaks as a result of the accumulation of water around the roof.

Roof Leak Water Damage Repair

Drying the affected area plays an important role in repairing the existing water damage. To keep the affected area dry, it’s recommended that you invest in a number of fans. Furthermore, identify individual items that have sustained water damage, such as furniture, and dry them thoroughly by vacuuming or air drying them.  

Most the repair and maintenance work should be focused on any affected walls because they tend to be the most vulnerable to water damage. Before applying mold resistant paint over the walls, make sure that they have had enough time to dry after the roof leak has been fixed by a pro. This will help create a healthy environment within the structure by preventing mold growth.

Ultimate Roofing is a high quality and professional roofing company serving Albany and the greater Capital Region!

Since the roof plays a pivotal role in protecting you and your home from the adversities and harshness of weather, it surely requires special attention. Hence, you should be concerned about its overall condition and performance. But how you should know what type repairs your roof might need. To assist you in this regard, here are the 5 common shingle roofing repairs that your roof may require to keep it in good shape and enhance its performance.

Look for Damaged or Clogged Gutters
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In fact, faulty gutters may also serve as a cause of damaging your roof. If you don’t clean the gutters by removing debris or standing water, it would lead to causing serious damage to the roof and walls of your home. Even if you keep the gutters clean, they need to be repaired after a few years to maintain their functionality.

Replace Missing or Cracked Shingles

Shingles not only protect your roof, but they also give a nice appearance to your home. Hence, when it comes to replacing the shingles, you are actually protecting the roof as well as maintaining the looks of your home. Shingles are not tough enough to bear the harsh weather conditions like heavy snow of windstorm. Hence, it’s likely to find some of these to be missing every now and then.

When shingles are damaged, you need to replace them immediately to avoid water destroying the roof and interior of your home. In case of roof leaks, you may have to repaint the roof from inside. Buckling and curling are some of the issues that you can easily identify by just looking at the roof. You need to replace the shingles to prevent further damage.

Take Care of Fascia

Most of the homeowners are not familiar with this term, but they probably have seen it. It is a more sophisticated name for roof trim. It actually runs along the roofline of your home, designed to stop the water from entering your home. For most of the time it is exposed to severe weather conditions; hence start to exhibit signs of damage after a few years. So, you should monitor its condition at least twice a year.

Soffits

It is a finished surface located below the rafters and fascia. Soffits play a key role when it comes to attic ventilation. Moreover, it helps to prevent your rafters and sheathing from rotting. This structure is normally constructed from vinyl, which makes it a perfectly resistant against water. When inspecting soffits, you should look for minor cracks or holes that may cause water to seep into the roof.

Flashings also Need your Attention

Flashings act as an effective sealant, which protects those parts of a roof that are not covered. These may include walls, roof edges or drains. Apart from these areas, flashings also protect some other parts of the roof from water seepage. When inspecting the flashings, look for rust or any loose areas that can allow water to seep into the interior. Although it is quite easy to get them repaired, you should try to contact an experienced roofing contractor to complete the task professionally.

Before winter comes, you need to get your roof inspected by a reliable roofing contractor to identify any minor damages or cracks. If you fail to do so, your home might suffer severe damage due to heavy snow, rain or any other natural calamity. So, is your roof (is)strong enough to bear the adversities. If not, think about repairing it before this winter.


In fact, minor repairs cost less than replacing the roof (in case) unless it has been destroyed completely. Nevertheless, you must consider hiring a professional roofing contractor for this task. It has been usually observed that when homeowners try to inspect the roof by themselves, they failed to identify the minor issues that may turn into big disasters. Hence, let the professionals handle this job for ensuring the high-end performance of your roof for upcoming winter season.


Replacing the Damaged or Missing Shingles


Shingles are the most delicate part of a roof, which exhibit the early signs of wear and tear due to intense exposure to sun, wind, snow and rain. When you notice that a considerable number of shingles are missing, it’s a warning that you shouldn’t ignore. This may result in water leakage, causing a threat to the interior. So to avoid any damage to the roofing structure, it is advised to contact a reputed roofing contractor and get your roof inspected before the winter sets in.


Make Sure the Roof is Properly Sealed


Your roof needs to be sealed, especially around the places like chimneys, plumbing stacks, satellite mounts, and flashings. The sealant offers effective protection against seepage or leaks. However, after due course of time, sealant becomes ineffective due to the appearance of cracks. So by adding sealant at required places can restore the efficiency of your roof against leaks. Although it is a simple task, you should only settle for highly skilled professionals to complete this task.


Timely Repair the Roof Gutters


There are numerous reasons for gutters to sag including heavy snow, poor installation or routine wear and tear. Apart from lowering the curb appeal of your home, sagging gutters may also prove detrimental to the integrity of your roof. This issue can cause structural damage to the roof, minimizing its efficiency to perform well during the winter.


Although your roof gutters appear to be in a perfect condition, it is advised to get them inspected by a professional roofer. What you couldn’t notice is a pile of leaves, sticks and other debris, which is obstructing the path for rainwater or melted snow. If you leave it this way, possibilities are there that the water would start seeping into the walls, causing a serious threat to the interior. To avoid the menace of leaky gutters, get them cleaned thoroughly by hiring a reliable roofing contractor.


Attic Inspection
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Besides fixing exterior issues, roofers also do attic inspection as a part of their job. There are certain roof problems that are hard to detect from outside; hence, roofers need to look for them through attic inspection. By doing so, they try to identify the holes, poor insulation, and signs of water damage. If one or more of these issues are detected, they must be fixed immediately to avoid causing major damage to the roof.

Roof is an essential aspect of your home’s structural integrity and if it isn’t protected by a warranty, you better prepare for bearing the heavy cost of replacing it. This is so, as replacing your defective roof wouldn’t be a cheap affair. The cost may easily settle for five-figures when taking into consideration the pitch, the size, and the preferred materials.

Moreover, you can’t simply rely on the homeowner’s insurance to cover the costs of roof replacement. On the contrary, this type of insurance is mainly effective in case of heavy snow, windstorm, lightning and other acts of nature. Meaning thereby, you need an appropriate roof warranty when it comes to replacing a damaged roof.

What type of Roof Materials are Covered with a Warranty?

In fact, getting a superior warranty for your roof isn’t the only thing that you must be concerned about, as most of the roof materials do offer a warranty. Nevertheless, you must look for a warranty that is effective for many years. Hence, just a five years warranty won’t be sufficient to ensure ideal protection for the roof.

The average lifespan of a roof is 20 years, and during this period, it has to withstand the worst weather conditions. Therefore, you should look for a roof warranty that should last at least 30 to 40 years. Besides, the years of coverage, knowing what aspects are covered by a warranty is equally important. To know what type of coverage a perfect roof warranty may provide, just take a look at some of these options.

Extensive Coverage

When it comes to buying shingles, you may come across different types of warranties. For instance, most of the 3-Tab shingles come with a 25-year warranty; whereas, you are usually offered with a 50-year warranty when buying dimensional shingles. By having a long coverage, you can ensure best protection for your roof.

Coverage against Material Defects

Your roof should be strong enough to endure the harsh outdoor elements. In case your roof starts to show wear and tear after few years of installation, this could minimize the comfort level and energy efficiency of your home. Therefore, a great manufacturer warranty is what you need to cope with these issues and effectively cover the material defects.

Insurance against Poor Workmanship

As a matter of fact, your roof requires minor repairs once in a while. This may involve replacing the damaged shingles or repairing the popped up flashing. However, these are simple to handle repairs, which cause less trouble. On the contrary, if your roof needs some major repairs, chances are there that things may go wrong. This may happen when less skilled professionals did the installation job. If this is the case, concerns regarding the structural integrity of the roof are always there. This is the area where appropriate warranties kick in and provide required protection against the poor workmanship.

Warranty by Roofing Company is Insufficient

Although roofing contractors offer warranties against poor workmanship, just settling for this type of warranty isn’t a wise decision. Such warranty is directly linked with the existence of a company offering it. This suggests that you can’t claim such a warranty if the company goes down. So make sure to get a roofing warranty that also covers all types of installation issues.

Engage a Renowned Roofing Contractor

If roof replacement is what you are thinking of, don’t fall a prey to cheap and less experienced roofing contractors. Rather, you should focus on engaging a well-renowned roofing contractor.

Deciding as to what type of material is best for your roof is one of the most difficult decisions that you need to take when installing a new roof. This involves paying attention to various aspects like quality, longevity, and price of a particular material.


Usually, what you see around your neighborhood is that most of the roofs have asphalt shingles. But this doesn’t suggest that it is an appropriate choice for your home’s roof. To give you an idea, we have drawn a comparison between the tiles and asphalt shingles by considering their performance, durability, and cost factor. So, prior to buying a new roof, make sure to keep these essential aspects in mind.


What Climate do you live in?


If you live in an area, which experiences harsh weather conditions through most of the time of a year, you need strong protection for the roof. For instance, if there are freezing temperatures or high winds, you must consider the durability factor when installing a new roof.


Although asphalt shingles cost you less, they fail to endure the lashes of Mother Nature. They usually wrap up or break down after being exposed to strong winds or heat for a few years. Tiles, on the other hand, can withstand winds up to 180 mph, pass Grade-1 freeze-thaw requirements, and absorb minimum heat.


Affordability


In most of the cases, roof replacement may turn out to be an expensive cut on your budget. So if you are tight on budget, it would be wise to go for asphalt shingles when you need to replace your home’s roof.


Durability


Asphalt shingles are less effective when it comes to durability. Even if you find them affordable upfront, they might cost you a lot in terms of replacing the roof after 10 years or so. Since concrete tiles are known for their resistance against severe heat or cold, they are usually recommended for all weather conditions.


Which one is more Energy Efficient?


If you are sick and tired of bearing cooling and heating costs, it’s time to make your home more energy efficient than ever. How?—it’s simple. By just insulating your roof with energy efficient roofing materials, you can lower the air conditioning costs.


During winters, your home loses most of its heat through its roof. This suggests that you need to heat your home continuously to maintain a comfortable room temperature. Similar is the case in the summer, where a considerable rise in temperature in the attic makes it difficult to cool your home.


So, what material you should use when installing a new roof? Asphalt shingles absorb most of the heat; hence, they aren’t something that you should consider when living in a hot climate. On the contrary, tiles reflect sunshine and heat, making them an ideal option for maintaining a comfortable temperature indoors.


If your budget doesn’t allow you to choose concrete roof tiles, you better consult a professional roofer to know whether you can get heat resistant asphalt shingles. By doing so, you can find a few options that may fit into your budget.


Think about Contacting a Reliable Roofer


When you are all set to install a new roof, the next step is to contact a roofing contractor.  For this purpose, you should hire the best in the business, capable of meeting all your roofing needs within a set budget. 

Roof is one of the most essential parts of your home when it comes to structural integrity, safety and comfort. You can enjoy all the luxuries of your home when it has a secure and strong roof. It offers required protections against the harshness of outdoor weather and gives a nice curb appeal to your home.

Therefore, you should be concerned about the structural integrity of your roof by monitoring any signs of wear and tear. But, what we usually hear about the maintenance of a roof isn’t true at all. Technically speaking, these are just myths. To give you a clear picture, we have tried to debunk some of the most common myths about roof.

Cover Over the Roof Problems

A few building codes do suggest that concealing the roof problems is an acceptable approach. This might appear to be fine in a legal perspective, but when it comes to technicalities and integrity of a roof, it wouldn’t be a wise decision.

For instance, if you don’t remove the old shingles or other roofing structures, it is simply impossible to inspect the cause of damage. This means that the undiscovered damage would cause destruction in the long run, even if you have replaced the outer layer of a roof.

All Shingles are Similar

Since shingles are manufactured while keeping in view their quality, cost, durability, and similar attributes, it is not possible that all of them exhibit similar properties. Hence, each type of single is made to perform well in specific conditions like humid, windy and hot weather conditions.

Some of them come with limited warranties and others offer lifetime warranties. Similarly, a few shingles are specifically manufactured to deal with issues such as excessive moisture, algae, heavy snow, and scorching heat. That being said, all shingles are not the same and you should contact a professional roofer to know what type of shingles is best for your roof.

Flashing is Shatterproof

Flashing is a metal structure, which is designed to offer required protection to chimneys, vents, piping, and other types of openings in a roof. Even though it is made from a strong material, considering it as indestructible isn’t wise. This part of a roof is also vulnerable to the damages caused by strong winds, hails, erosion and routine wear and tear. If exposed to excessive stress, it may suffer structural damage, lowering its overall performance.

You only Need to Inspect a Roof when it is Damaged

This is another myth, which is misleading homeowners since long. In fact, you should monitor or inspect your roof at the end of every four to six months depending on the weather conditions. Especially after heavy snowfall or rainy season, it is advised to carry out an ‘eyeball inspection’.

In addition, make sure to get your roof inspected by a professional Albany roofer annually. This is essential, as you can’t even imagine what type of damage harsh weather conditions may cause to your roof. Even a minor crack or missing shingle may prove disastrous for the integrity of your roof.

There is literally no way to know the condition of your roof by just standing in front of your home. This is because unlike other parts of your home, the roof isn’t viewable until you go up there and look for any signs of damage.


Moreover, replacing a roof is one of the most expensive and time-consuming repairs that your home may need. Hence, it is more important to maintain your roof in a good shape by identifying the minor issues and fixing them timely.


By doing so, you actually extend the life and performing abilities of a roof. In order to maintain your roof the right way, just consider these handy tips arranged for you.


Routine Inspections


There is no need to be there on the roof every day, as what it requires is just some routine inspections after a couple of months. On the contrary, you shouldn’t be lazy enough to wait for something to happen. The roof is an integral part of a home, as it protects you and the interior from severe outdoor conditions.


To get a better idea of the roof’s condition, you need to walk over it and find minor cracks or missing shingles or tiles. The best possible time to run an inspection is before the winter season and after it. Winter season means loads of snow piling up on the roof and afterward plenty of moisture to seep into the interior. To avoid happening this to your roof, it would be better to call a roofing contractor for a more detailed and authentic inspection.


Remove Debris out of the Gutters


Cleaning the gutters is a simple task in the sense that you don’t need to climb over the roof. Just grab a ladder and easily reach the gutter. You can remove the debris with a small scraper and after that wash it thoroughly with a garden hose. The most appropriate time to clean the gutters is at the end of fall, as this is the time when your gutters are filled with leaves.


Don’t Forget to Trim the Trees


Although trees enhance the curb appeal for your home and serve the purpose of a natural landscape, they also prove to be detrimental for the roof. This doesn’t mean that you need to cut all the trees around your home; rather, you should consider trimming the overhanging branches. It is essential, as in case of a windstorm, these branches can break apart and damage the roof or gutters by falling over them.  

Clean it Properly


By cleaning a roof regularly, you can keep it in a good shape for years to come. When you remove the leaves and debris from a roof, you can prolong its life without any major repairs. When you climb over the roof for cleaning, you can also inspect it for minor damages. For instance, you can look for any signs of rust or aging on the flashing. Moreover, you can look for any missing shingles, tiles or damaged parts of gutters. This would save you a lot of money by minimizing the repair costs.

Need help with your roof and looking for a professional roofing company in Albany?  Contact Ultimate Roofing today! 

You’ve probably heard the word roof flashing thrown around sometimes when you were discussing repairs with your roofing contractor. If you never really knew what it meant, it’s okay. You’re not the only one. Most homeowners will not be familiar with the roofing lingo and flashing is a word that might confuse them. In the roofing business, flashing is done in the intersecting points where the roofing material abuts the walls to keep them watertight. So, flashing is done around skylights and chimneys as well as another other crevice or valley that you might have on your roof.

Flashing is a way to seal the roof completely and cut it off from the interior of your house. The importance of this is a no brainer. You don’t want water leaking in through these transitional joints and you want an even roof above your head. There are certain technicalities that come with roof flashing including the fact that the materials used in it can expand with the rise in temperature. This is why proper installation of this sealant is essential to keep your roof free from water damages.

Why is roof flashing done?

We’ve already mentioned how flashing keeps water from leaking into your home but flashing also plays a role in ventilation and keeping your roof airtight at all tights. Improper flashing will result in wet spots forming on your ceiling or water trickling down your chimney or from the edges of your skylight. If you notice any of these red flags, get in touch with a licensed roofer immediately. Chances are that you’ll need your flashing redone.

What materials are used in flashing?

Today, there are various options in the market to choose from for your flashing. An experienced roofer should be able to guide you properly on the kind of material you should invest in. Roof flashing can be done using copper, stainless steel, aluminum, lead and even plastic. It’s up to your budget and the quality of flashing you require which type of material you should choose for roof flashing.

Generally copper is a more preferred material because it is malleable and does not corrode easily. It’s also tensile and strong in quality so it a bad storm shouldn’t be able to damage it. Metal flashing is on the high end of the flashing spectrum though so if you don’t have the budget for it consider plastic flashing instead.

How is the flashing installed?

Roof flashing installation requires skills and professional tools, both of which a licensed roofer should have. Since flashing plays an integral part in keeping your roof water tight, don’t choose DIY option. You roofer will install the flashing before fitting in the tiles of the roof. But if only a repair job is required then your contractor will remove a few lines of tiles to make space for the flashing material.

Flashing is susceptible to damage from faulty installation, bad weather conditions and advancing age. If you notice any signs for flashing damage, get in touch with Ultimate Roofing, your premier roofing company in Albany  immediately!

One of the chief complaints as roofers in Albany is having is a leaky roof. Water damage can sneak in when you least expect it. Sometimes it’s caused by a harsh storm that has just hit your town; other times it’s just the age factor that’s taking a toll on your roof. Whatever the reason for the damage is, it’s important that you find it soon and get it repaired ASAP. Water damage does not always leave an obvious trace; sometimes you’ll have to inspect your roof thoroughly for any signs of a leak.

In this blog post, we’ll look into some of the most primary signs of a leaky or water-damaged roof. If you’re still unable to perform a thorough check, consider hiring an expert roofer for the job.

Timing is important when you’re checking for water damage on your roof. Ideally you should be evaluating the roof right after the bad weather has passed. Don’t attempt to investigate during the downpour because that could prove fatal.

Look for signs of water damage from the outside

Most leaks will show themselves outside first before you find signs of them on your ceilings. Get your safety gear on and use a ladder to climb the roof. Inspect thoroughly for any signs of water damage. You should be paying close attention to the clogged and leaky gutter lining and peeling paint, both of which are important signs of water damage to your roof. If you notice any greens and fungi growing on your rooftop, the water damage has probably already progressed. If that’s the case then you’ll need to hire a licensed roofer for the job immediately.

Look for signs of water damage from the inside

Some homeowners will first notice the signs of water damage from the inside of their house. If you notice damp spots that drip on your ceiling, you probably have a leaky roof that you need to deal with. If you have an attic in your house, this is the room where the signs will first appear. You might also notice a damp, swampy smell in the air, moss growing inside and peeling paint.
You can investigate a leaky ceiling even during the rain so it’s a good idea to check for wet spots on your attic when the rain is in full swing.

Water damage is a common problem that every homeowner has to deal with at some point in time. Talk to an expert to discuss repair options and, if required, the possibility of a roof replacement.

Contact Southern Star Roofing for all your roofing needs.  We are the premier roofing company in Albany available to assist and exceed your expectations!

There’s a lot to love in a shingle roof but perhaps one of the biggest perks are the diverse options available in design and hues. When you’re getting your new roof installed, you want it to look fabulous. You also want it to be perfect for the environment you live in. Picking the right color can be daunting but it doesn’t have to be. Here in this blog post we’re listing down all the ways to make the best decision for your roof.

Since you won’t need the shingles replaced in 20 years or so, you should always consider options that will hold up in both quality and fashion for the years to come. Luckily, there are plenty of options in the market so we’re sure you’ll find the right color for your roof!

Consider your location

That sexy matte black color might be attractive but when you live in a city where the temperature all around the year is a boiling 40 degrees, maybe black isn’t the best decision. Always think about the climate of your town when you’re choosing the color. Cooler colors like whites keep the temperature of your home down and help controlling the utility bills. Consider these cooler options if you live in a hot climate.

On the other hand, dark colors absorb more heat from the sun and raise the temperature of your home. These will help keep your home warm in areas that have a cold climate. Plus, these dark hued shingles accelerate melting of snow from your rooftop.

Think about your home’s aesthetic

Don’t be drawn to that exuberant neon shingle just yet. You want to pick a color for your shingles that properly complements the rest of your home’s structure and style. When you’re making a decision, think about the colors of the bricks and the siding of your house. Does your potential color make a good pair with it?

You should also consider the illusion of size that different colored shingles give. Darker colors make the roof look smaller while cooler colors have the opposite effect. Make a fashionable decision and make sure whatever you choose matches well with the rest of your house.

Don’t forget the neighbors!

Along with considering the aesthetics of your own home, also take a good look at the houses around you. It’s always a good idea to stand out but if you want a more symmetrical look, you could opt for similar shingle shades as your neighbors’. Whatever you decide, it should complement the roof right next to you. If you live in complexes that are run through an association, make sure that there aren’t any rules for all the houses to have the same shingle colors and the same style.

Pair with the Shutters

When the shutters are a different color than the siding of your roof, you could choose the same color of the shutters for your roof for a complemented, aesthetic look. You can also change the shutter color to match with the shingle color of your choice. Pairing these two structures will give a more even and fashionable look to your entire house.

Looking for a quality, professional and affordable Albany roofer?  Contact the roofing pros at Ultimate Roofing today!

Have you heard your neighbor rave about how he saved big by layering his new roof over the old one? Did that one article online tell you there’s no need for a roof inspection if you don’t live in a rainy climate? Homeowners often find themselves flooded with a variety of roof misconceptions that can negatively affect how they plan to proceed with their roofing project. Not everything Google tells you or what you watch in YouTube videos is legit; in fact, it hardly ever is. Knowing the facts from the myths is something every homeowner considering a big roofing project in the near future should know. The only way to really get your facts straight is through a qualified and knowledgeable roofing contractor.

Ultimate Roofing is a reputable roofing company with professional roofers on its team. This article will clearly outline all of the roofing misconceptions you’ve had and what the truth really is so keep reading!
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Myth #1: There’s no need to remove the old roof; just install the new one on top

One of the biggest misconceptions when it comes to a new roof installation is layering a new bed of shingles over the last one. This is a shortcut and might save you some cash initially but it can seriously undermine the quality of your roof in the long run. The cost of future roof repairs will escalate in no time and you might find yourself in deep waters with a new roofing installation pretty soon.

Myth #2: Inspections are a waste of time

No one will tell you not to get your roof inspected after a bad storm has passed, but almost everyone will tell you not to get one done when there hasn’t been a drop of rain in months. Regular or annual roof inspections are actually pretty crucial to always keep tabs on the status of your roof even when the weather conditions have been decent. You might not require a roof inspection in the same year as your roof installation but you will need one done at least once or twice a year in the subsequent years. Roof inspections are important to rule out any underlying roofing issue and call for repairs immediately before the problems gets out of hand.

Myth #3: Metal roofs are unnecessarily expensive

Many homeowners find metal roofs ugly and that really boils down to your personal preference but people who think these roofs aren’t worth the money they put in are completely mistaken. Metal roofs naturally require more labor and the cost of its installation is at the high end of the spectrum but that also means that these roofs last much longer, need fewer repairs and are a lot more energy efficient than conventional shingle roofing.

Myth #4: Ventilation and Insulation don’t make a difference
 
We can’t stress enough how important proper ventilation and insulation are to your roof. If anyone tells you otherwise, don’t believe them! Without a proper ventilation system, you’re inevitably inviting moisture into your house and that consequently will lead to mold and moss growth. A poorly insulated roof, on the other hand, is directly proportional to your utility bills.

Myth #5: My roof warranty is complete and covers everything

It’s always a good idea to check out the warranty policy that comes with your roof and this includes both the manufacturer warranty and the roofer warranty. You’ll have to make sure both of these warranties are in sync before you can claim that your roof is entirely covered by warranty.

Need help with a roofing project?  Call the Albany roofing pros today at (518) 888-7663