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Is your roof in the front of your mind at all times? Given how hectic life can be, it is very easy to lose track of the most important exterior components that can protect your interior space.
Although a majority of asphalt roof systems have been designed for protecting your house for around 15 years, it is recommended by the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) that your roof is inspected regularly or two times per year in the fall and spring. With that said, let check out some of the top DIY roof inspection tips and recommendations on what to do when your roof needs to be repaired and it is over your head and you need to have some expert help. Top Roofing Tips To Keep In Mind 1. Homebuyer beware. A good time to start the process of having your roof assessed is before the closing date: Have a professional roof inspection done before the future house is yours officially and that will save lots of time and expensive repairs in the future, and that can be an advantage if and when you make the decision to sell your new house. 2. Trim problematic trees. Whenever you are admiring your house and the surrounding landscape, it is very important that you do not overlook any leaning branches that are touching your roof or might gauge and scratch your roofing materials. In order to prevent puncturing or damaging your shingles, just trim back any branches and remove them if they getting too near to your roof. 3. Clean your gutters and remove the leaves. Clean out any debris and leaves from your gutters. In addition to troublesome branches, there are leaves and other debris that may clog up your gutter system and may cause water to back up inside your attic behind your fascia board, or living areas. To make sure that your drainage system is flowing freely, you should clean your roof two times a year at least. Also, watch out for damaged drain components or sagging gutters and replace or repairs as necessary. 4. Make sure your roof is built so it can breathe. If you do not have the proper ventilation, moisture and heat may cause the rafting and sheathing to rot, for insulation to start to lose its effectiveness and roofing materials to buckle. These things will cause your overall roofing system to become ineffective. 5. Include insulation. Using the proper insulation is the best to ensure you have the right airflow and ventilation. To protect your home from heat loss or gain, it is a good idea to incorporate a layer of gap-free insulation on your attic floors along with a vapor retarder underneath the insulation next to your ceiling in order to prevent moisture from rising up into your attic. It is also ideal to have vented, open spaces to allow the air to freely pass and have one inch at least between the roof sheathing and insulation. 6. Check your attic for any aftermath. Along with having an attic that is well insulated, you should also check for any weak shingles or water stains following a heavy storm. 7. Protect against streaking. Be sure you pay close attention to your roof color. Certain areas of your roof, usually in the northern part, that get exposed to shade over extended periods of humidity eventually will become streaked with fungus, algae or mold. It left unchecked the roofing material will eventually deteriorate which will shorten the lifespan of your roof, and that can lead to leaks as well as other signs of problems. In order to completely eliminate the mold problem, installing zinc strips along the roof ridge is a very good idea. These are precision engineered to offer environmentally safe (and approved by the EPA) long term protection for your roof (average 20 years) from algae, mildew, moss, and fungus attack. 8. Check for signs of potential shingle damage. When shingles are exposed to regular wear and tear from various elements it can cause them to become torn off or become dilapidated, which can make your roof structure and interior space of your home to become vulnerable to rot and water seepage. It is strongly advised for homeowners to examine their roof coverings every year to ensure that their integrity is still intact. 9. DIY roofer repairers. People who are brave enough to try to do their own roof repairs need to keep in mind that it is dangerous up on the roof. It is recommended that you remain on a firmly braced ladder that has rubber safety feet whenever possible. If you do decide to walk on your roof, wear rubber-soled shoes to help prevent you from slipping and falling. 10. Quality roofing quotes. Whenever repair work is beyond the DIY project stage, you need to do some research before you call for help. It is recommended that you get two quotes at least so that you can decide on the best combination of price and quality. Think long-term and not as cheap as possible when you are selecting a roofing company since it will save you a lot in repair costs in the future. Bottom line: It is very important to keep your roofline in mind. Take a top-down approach with annual inspections and making use of these quick trips and trick to help to protect and preserve the interior of your home for many years into the future. Looking for a a professional roofing company in the Albany area? Contact Ultimate Roofing today!
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Given how many advances keep happening in the roofing industry, a growing number of shingle options are coming available to many homeowners. It can be hard to sift through all the various kinds of shingles before deciding on the one material which might best suit your home. We've assembled this list of the top current shingle options so you're able to determine which particular choice could work best as your next roofing system.
Asphalt Shingles One of the more affordable and frequently used options on the current market, these shingles are tremendously popular across the nation. This kind of shingle is made with asphalt that's layered with various other materials. Asphalt shingle come in various colors and sizes and are available in two primary categories of organic and fiberglass. Fiberglass Shingles These shingles are light in weight, fire-resistant, rather affordable, and fairly durable. They're also waterproof thanks to asphalt coating, and they're also resistant to the sun's UV rays. These are a practical choice for nearly all roofing applications. Organic Shingles Asphalt shingles sometimes get made using organic materials such as paper, cellulose, or wood chips. Organic shingles typically weigh more than fiberglass shingles, and they're also susceptible to moisture issues. Given this, organic shingles aren't typically good choices for homes in regions with low temperatures or high humidity. Slate Shingles Slate is definitely the king of the shingle hill. Its durability can last decades more than other roofing materials, sometimes going as long as a century. Slate shingles provide a natural but sophisticated look that combines strength and durability. Resistance to moisture and heat combine with high impact tolerance to make this kind of shingle a winner in the broader roofing market. That's not to say it's perfect, however; slate is both expensive and heavy. For anyone able to sustain the budgetary cost and physical weight, though, slate shingles are a tremendous investment. Wood Shingles If you want something environmentally friendly, then wood shingles could be the way you want to go. These kinds of shingles prove quite durable, often lasting three to five decades. Flammability is a huge downside to wooden shingles, though. Most other roofing materials are fire-resistant, whereas the majority of wood shingles aren't, meaning they'd be a safety consideration in regions with common wildfires. Wood shingles can also prove susceptible to rot, mold, and wood-boring insects. If you live in the Capital Region and want more expert advice about the roofing choices open to you, then contact Ultimate Roofing right away. Our roofing professionals have the knowledge and experience that can help you figure out which roofing material is best for your home before installing it with the best quality and precision. We'll give you a roof you can trust thanks to a reputable and reliable contractor. Schedule your free consultation right away! During that last hailstorm that we had my house took a real beating. There was hail the size of a baseball in my gutters and all over my yard after the crazy thunderstorm that we had last night. I know my roof was damaged since I can see pieces of shingles all over my yard and there are granules inside of my gutters. How fast do I need to act in order to have everything evaluated and repaired? Are there any deadlines for getting an insurance claim filed? The scenario above is fairly common. With the weather that we have had this summer and what we often get in Iowa, you could find yourself in a situation that is similar to the one above and have the same questions. We have written articles already on these topics to help make sure you take the right path to get your property restored. How To Tell If Your Roof Was Damaged By The Last Big Storm How Can I Tell If Hail Has Damaged My Roof? FAQ: How to Deal With Your Storm Damage Insurance Claims In this article, we will be filling in a few gaps for you, and our focus will be on how long you have until your insurance claim needs to be filed, and why it is a good idea to act sooner instead of later. Why Do I Need To File An Insurance Claim? After you have determined that your roof has sustained hail damage and a reputable roofing contractor has inspected your roof, you should get a claim filed with your insurance company right away. There is a reason why you have homeowner's insurance. You have probably been paying your premiums for many years to specifically make sure you are covered for situations like this one. How Do I File My Claim? The first thing that you need to do is find your homeowner's insurance policy and review it so that you know how much your deductible is. You need to ensure that the amount of the insurance payout is more than your deductible by enough to make it work it to file your claim. Write down your policy number, and organize the photos and notes that you took of the damage following the storm to ensure that you are able to report things as accurately as you can. Make sure that you have the date and time that the roof was damaged, which items have sustained damage, and the size of the hail that hit your house. After you have everything together, your claim can be filed either by phone or online. You will be given a claim number and a claims examiner will be assigned to work with you. Next, the claims adjuster will visit your property and inspect your roof and then provide you with an estimate for the necessary repairs. Should I Have My Roofing Contractor At The Inspection? Yes, definitely! Make arrangements with your roofing contractor to be there. He has inspected the roof for you already and will be able to provide a second opinion when the insurance adjuster inspects your roof. It is important to have someone there who you know and trust and who can help to keep the claims adjuster accountable. The adjuster and contractor can discuss their findings and provide you with an accurate estimate. If there is a disagreement, you can call your insurance company and ask for a different adjuster to come out and re-evaluate the situation. After I File One Claim Will My Premium Cost Go Up? Not necessarily. It is going to depend on various factors such as your location, the number of claims that you have filed in a certain time period, and the insurance company. Weather is a natural occurrence and the damage that was sustained was not due to any negligence by you, so your home insurance rates might stay the same. How Much Time Do I Have To File My Insurance Claim? Most standard insurance policies require your claim to be filed within one year after determining your house has hail damage. However, in order to know for sure, you should call your insurance agent and ask what the specific timeframe is. Why Should I Immediately Take Action? The damage can continue to get worse the longer you wait. Also, the more serious that the damage was, the more it will cost to repair your roof. Bruised shingles may cause leaks and the structure of your house could sustain serious water damage. Having your roof repaired immediately can save you from experience numerous problems in the future that you could have avoided by taking immediate action. If you are searching for a dependable roofing contractor in Albany, call Ultimate Roofing. We will work closely with your insurance company and you to ensure that the repair process is as smooth and stress-free as possible. Shingle underlayment offers a protective barrier that goes in between the shingles on your house and the roof frame. Although you probably will not be installing your own roof, you still need to be aware of the various kinds of materials that are available so that you can choose the best kind of underlayment for your roof and house. When you make the best decision it can help to extend the life of your roof and also minimize the number of repairs and maintenance that your roof will need.
UNDERLAYMENT CHOICES Felt This kind of underlayment normally is made out of organic felt and then saturated in asphalt. It might contain some fiberglass reinforcement for increasing longevity and strength. Felt that is saturated in asphalt is water-resistant for a while, but it will wear down eventually and become penetrable. When more asphalt is used for saturating the material, that makes the underlayment more durable but also more expensive. When it comes to the roofing process, asphalt is the component that is the most expensive. Lower priced underlayment will be of lesser quality and contain less asphalt potentially. Usually felt underlayment is more useful on steep-sloping roofs since water can run off quickly, in contract with flatter roofs, which can result in water standing for extended amounts of time. In general, it wrinkles quite easily, over time may absorb water, and is not very tear-resistant. Deterioration can be accelerated by direct sunlight as the asphalt continues to deplete. Although it is less expensive compared to other types of underlayment, it might not be the best option if you are searching for total water resistance, durability, and quality. Rubberized There are different kinds of underlayment that are made out of rubber-like material. There is material that is polymer-modified that contains bitumen (which is a viscous hydrocarbon mixture), which provides plastic or rubber properties. Rubberized asphalt self-seals and its elastic and flexible nature allow it to fill in spaces around staples or nails. This kind of underlayment is better suited than felt in high-temperature climates. It may also be very resistant to moisture penetration and weathering. Synthetic One of the more popular forms of underlayment is synthetic underlayment but it also has a tendency to cost more. It is completely waterproof and adds a very protective layer of insulation between your shingles and roof frame. Overall, this kind of underlayment gets better safety ratings compared to felt. Also, it is more breathable and allows humidity to escape and also resists water penetration. It protects against ice, rain, and wind and is ideal for shingles and low-sloping roofs. It is long lasting and durable due to its polymer modifier and higher asphalt percentage. Non-bitumen synthetics are made out of polypropylene or polyethylene. Synthetic underlayment is fungus-resistant, wrinkle-free, lightweight and under directly UV radiation stands strong. Fire-Resistance Ratings The fire-resistance rating of underlayment is another important factor that needs to be considered. When you are selecting materials, make sure that you check this. A majority of underlayment product offer about the same amount of protection against smoke, but flame protection may vary significantly. Look for a rating of A, B, C. An A rating is the best (this is the most fire-resistant options) and C is the worst (offers the least fire-resistance). In terms of roofing in the overall scheme of things, the pricing of the underlayment is not going to break or make your budget. if you just look at underlayment options on their own, you will find pricing differences of a couple of hundred dollars or so. When you compare that with the thousands of dollars of your overall roofing project, then you can see that it can be worth the extra expense to choose a more water-resistant, more durable, and higher quality underlayment. Ultimate Roofing is the top roofing company in Albany where you can get your underlayment materials for all of your installment needs and guidance. We can help you decide which kind of underlayment is the best option for you. Storms are common during the spring months. And since spring is around the corner, it is good to ensure that you are adequately prepared for a storm. So, without further ado, here are tips for getting your home ready for spring storms:
Check Your Home’s Exterior Even though it is not possible to completely protect a house against damage caused by spring storms, it is possible to reduce storm damage. To prepare your home for spring storms, examine your home’s exterior and check if there are any areas that may need a little TLC. If you notice damaged or loose siding, secure them as soon as possible. You should also ensure that all your shingles are in good conditions and properly adhered. If your roof should be repaired before the rain season, look for a reputable professional before it is too late. Tend to Trees It is a good idea to tend to trees before the spring months. Old limbs do not stand a chance in high winds of spring storms and it is good to take care of them before they come crashing down. Even though you can do minor pruning all by yourself, it is not good to cut down large branches without professional help. Also, remember to clear debris from your yard as this will prevent them from striking your home. Clean Gutters and Downspouts The gutter system is very important as it helps it prevents water from your home’s façade and foundation. It does this by diverting rainwater away from both the façade and foundation. It is important to check your gutters when preparing for spring storms as gutters are the ones that direct extra precipitation associated with spring storms away from your home’s façade. Keep in mind that a gutter that does not work properly can lead to roof leaks, basement floods or erode your home’s foundation. Carry out cleaning and maintenance of your gutters twice a year to ensure that your gutters can do their job well effectively handle the downpours associated with storms. Have a Safety Plan in Place To protect yourself and your family during any disaster, it is good to have a thorough safety plan in place. Your plan should include all natural disasters that may affect your area. Here are some scenarios you need to prepare for: -Lightning Striking Your Home -Flash flooding -Tornado warnings and watches -Severe Thunderstorms -A tree falling on your home Involve your family in your emergency preparedness plan to keep them safe. Remember that communication is an important part of being prepared for spring storms and it is good to over communicate so that your family will not forget what to do. Preparing for an emergency situation will help ensure your family’s well-being during a disaster. Gather Your Emergency Kits Pre-made emergency kits are very important during any disaster. These kits should contain items that can help you in case of an extended power outage or period in shelter. Here are some of the items that your emergency kit should have according to Ready.gov: -A 3-day supply of nonperishable food -A gallon of water per person per day for at least 3 days -A whistle to signal for help -First aid kit -Pet food and water (if necessary) -Moist towelettes and trash bags -Local maps -Prescription and non-prescription medication It may also be a good idea to check an extensive list of recommended emergency supplies to complete your kit. Look For an Expert to Help You After a spring storm, look for a professional roofing contractor to help you repair your roof. This is because of the fact that your home will need siding, gutters and roof repairs. A construction expert can ensure that your home’s exterior is repaired in the best way possible. The expert will also ensure that your home’s exterior is ready for the next spring storms. Fixing any damages as soon as possible will keep your household safe and secure regardless of the weather. Are you looking for reputable professional exterior services in the Albany area? If so, consider Ultimate Rofing. We have a team of well-trained construction workers who are always ready to help you prepare your home for spring storms or fix any damage caused by spring storms. We offer siding, roofing, and gutter repair services. Contact us today to know how we can help you. Did the winter and spring take a toll on your home's roof? If so, the summer could be a good time to investigate a full roof replacement, rather than just making some spot roof repairs. If you are unsure whether you need to get a full roof replacement, start by asking yourself some simple questions.
What is the State of the Shingles? If you are lucky enough to have just a few damaged shingles then it makes sense to replace them. That's the simple and most economical choice. If a lot of the shingles are damaged then you should consider replacing the roof entirely. Inspect your home, and look at the shingles or roof surface closely. Warped or curled shingles are a warning sign that the roof is badly ventilated or that the shingles were not installed properly. This could cost you a lot of money in lost energy, and could be allowing water to infiltrate the roof. If you have asphalt shingles, and the granules on them have come loose, then this is another bad sign. The granules on shingles are there to protect your home from weather damage and sun damage. They keep the roof in a good state. Some granule loss is natural, but bald patches and damage from storms and hail can lead to long term problems. If lots of granules are coming loose and you are finding them in the gutter or runoff, then that could be a sign that you need a roof replacement. DIAGNOSING WEAR: If the granule wear appears in horizontal lines on the shingles, a few inches below the edge of the shingle that sits above it, then that could be a sign that the seal around the shingles has become broken. This means that there is more chance of water penetrating the singles and damaging the roof decking or promoting the growth of mold. If many shingles have come loose, then it may make sense to replace the whole roof. It is possible, and even economical, to replace individual shingles but if the damage is extensive then replacing the whole thing makes sense. If you have cracked or dried shingles, then you should replace them. It is not uncommon for the cycling of hot summers and cold winters to cause shingles to crack. When they become damaged like this, it can allow water to penetrate the shingles, and damage the roof deck. Do a Roof Health Check If your roof is leaking, then you need to figure out where the leak is. A leak around a chimney, vent or duct can usually be repaired without needing to do massive work on the rest of the roof. You just need to flash and re-seal the opening. If there are more extensive leaks, however, the roof deck could already be water damaged, and you may need to do more extensive repairs on the parts that were exposed to moisture. A sagging roof can be a warning sign of bad structural support, and is another thing that needs examined more closely. Poor construction work can lead to a shortened life span for the roof, and even well-built houses will deteriorate over time. Call in the experts to determine the best course of action, because a sagging roof that is not handled properly could become a serious problem. How old is the roof? There are many different roofing materials, and they all have different lifespans. You can expect rubber/EPDM roofing to last 10-16 years, while asphalt lasts 15 to 18 years, and architectural shingles can last 24 to 30 years. Concrete tile roofing and steel roofing may last for more than 30 years. If your roofing surface is coming to the end of its expected lifespan, then it may well be more cost-effective to replace it than to patch up any problems that have started to develop. You can prolong the life of the roof by taking good care of it. Remove moss and algae regularly to prevent granule loss and water infiltration, and to ward off mold. Examine Your Finances If you need to sell your property soon then you may be wondering what the best thing to do with the roof is. You should consider the expected sale value of the property. In addition, think about your insurance. If your roof was damaged by bad weather, vandalism, or an accident then you may be able to claim on your insurance. You might get premium incentives if you upgrade to something very durable such as EMCO steel roofing. Remember that modern roofing is very energy efficient, and could help to insulate your home, reducing the amount of energy that you use, and lowering your utility builds. Look around to see if there are local government incentives that could help to cover the cost of energy efficiency updates for your home. If you are looking for a new roof then Ultimate Roofing would be happy to help you choose the best roofing materials. We offer steel roofing, flat roofing and asphalt shingles to suit a range of budgets, and provide professional installation too. Call us today to discuss your needs and to get a free estimate for work on your roof this summer. We are your professional roofing company in Albany! Roofing installation is a big project, and this is why it is a good idea to do a little preparation because you want it to go smoothly. The job can last a day or even weeks, depending on the type of roofing you are working with and the state of the current roof. How can you get your family and home ready for the roof installation project?
PREPARING FOR THE DAY Roofing Materials Before the roofing contractors can start the project, you should have all the necessary materials delivered to your home. There are some materials such as shingles that will be delivered a couple of days before the beginning of the project, and they will be on your driveway or even roof. Another thing you can expect to have delivered to your home is a dumpster. There might be a second dumpster delivered, especially when the contractor is going to recycle the old singles. You should ask the roofing contractor what is going to be delivered and at what time so you can be there when they do. FAMILY AND PETS You should do proper preparations for you and your family before the roofing installation begins. It is common for roofing projects to be very loud, so you should consider going somewhere during that time and also arranging for your kids and pets to get a babysitter so they don’t have to deal with all that. If you are not going to be home during the project, make sure the contractor can easily reach in case of anything. If your family is going to be at home during the project, you should make sure that they don’t walk without wearing shoes and should also be cautious when entering or leaving the house. Minimizing or eliminating traffic is a good way of avoiding accidents and injuries. YOUR HOME There will also be vibrations alongside the noise, so fragile items on the wall or shelves should be taken out, especially when they are on the exterior walls. You should also cover anything that could be damaged by debris falling from the attic. YOUR YARD You should cover your plants or move them so they don’t get damaged by the falling debris. There are some contractors who will do this for you, but there are those who won’t. You need to keep your car somewhere it can’t be damaged, but you can still use it when you want to. Before the roofers arrive, make sure toys and equipment have been removed so you can leave them with an ample working environment. AFTER THE INSTALLATION IS DONE You should inquire about the cleanup process from the roofing contractor so you can know what needs to be done. Once the installation is completed, the roofing contractor is going to clean the debris laying around the house, and this will include downspouts and gutters on the lawn. Do an inspection with your roofer, and go around the yard so you can ensure everything is the way it is supposed to be. In the coming days and weeks, expect nails lurking around the yard, making it important to have your family members and friends wear shoes when they walk outside to be on the safe side. The contractors are going to pick up the dumpster once the project has been completed, and this is where you pay them. This can usually happen a couple of days after the installation is done. You should also ask the contractor whether he/she is going to register the warranty, but this is something you can do yourself. Hope you have gotten a rough idea on what to expect when it comes to roof replacement. If you need to have it replaced in Albany & the Greater Capital Region, then contact Ultimate Roofing because we are an Owens Corning™ Platinum Preferred Contractor and we have been able to do commercial and residential roofing installation in the area. Contact us with any question you might have or to get your free quote today! Purchasing a new house is usually an exciting process. There is much to get excited about, yet before you lose yourself in all the fun, there are a couple of details that are less fun that needs to be considered such as homeowners insurance. It might appear straightforward, yet there is a lot more than you need to know about. Here is the information you need about home insurance and how to get the best cover for your roof.
What Damages Will Be Covered? Many of the policies linked to homeowners insurance will cover damages that occur to your roof that are unavoidable. This typically includes the damages that result from “acts of God”, which includes hurricanes, tornadoes, etc. The damages that result from the common sources such as hail, rain, or wind might be covered, yet the factors and conditions that will determine the coverage can vary from one policy to the next. Wear-and-tear and age will usually not be covered with an insurance policy, and usually regarded as costs that the owner will be liable for. Due to the nature that is usually intricate with insurance policies, it is better to check with an agent to find out what you are covered for when it comes to different situations. How Will The Damages Be Covered? When it comes to homeowners insurance, typically there are 2 primary methods to asses the roofs value. This includes ACV (Actual Cash Value) which is a depreciated value for the roof. This appraising method will consider how old the roof is when the damage is reported. The depreciation formulas will be worked out differently from one insurance provider to the next and is not a standardization across this industry. The other method for assessing roofs when the damage occurs is the RCV (Replacement Cost Value). This is a type of assessment that won’t include the depreciation yet will rather consider the costs involved to replace your roof. It might seem like a tedious task to find out if the policy is RCV or ACV, yet this will make a great difference if the situation ever arises that you have to replace the roof over your home due to damages that are covered. Why Is It Important To Know How The Damages Are Covered? Similar to any type of insurance coverage, it becomes important to know how the policy will affect the premium, the deductible, and ultimately your pocket. It is up to you to decide which policy matches your specific situation. For this reason, you should use the services of a qualified insurance agent to give you sound advice on the right homeowner's policy, yet here are a few things of importance that you need to consider: The ACV policies are usually linked to lower premiums, yet if your roof does experience damages, a depreciated appraisal conducted on the roof will mean you will be forced to pay more out of your pocket. The RCV policies might come with higher premiums, yet if the event arises that the roof over your home needs replacing, then you are only liable for the deductible. When you choose homeowners insurance, you need to understand the conditions associated with coverage which means the types of damages that will be covered. You also need to know about the coverage type which includes RCV or ACV and the costs linked to this coverage which is known as a deductible or premium in order to arrive at a policy that matches up to your unique requirements. If you require professional and reliable roofing services in Albany, feel free to contact Ultimate Roofing. Over the last 10 years, our experienced team has been servicing central Iowa with integrity, quality, and honesty. We aim to provide all our customers with quality services and accurate quotes. Call us today for your detailed consultation. Getting a new roof is an exciting experience for many people. The kids and pets will be there watching the roofers tearing, ripping, hauling and nailing – and this is where they have the urge to move as close as possible so they can see it even better. This is very dangerous. Once the contractors get there, the house becomes a work zone, and just like any other work zones, there are some hazards.
Ultimate Roofing ensures the process of replacing the roof is seamless and stress-free. There are some safety precautions and preparations you should be making. Below are some tips you can use to make the process a smooth as possible. Our main goal is having you and your family safe when the work begins. 1. Thinking about the kids and pets There will be loud noises coming from the work site, and this can result in increased anxiety or disturbance of sleep habits. While it can be exciting to watch this from afar, the work zones are very risky for the children and pets. You should have a talk with your kids so they can know the areas of the home that are off-limits during the project. Young children and pets are not able to understand these risks, and that is why you should consider visiting your family of friends when the project is going on. 2. Relocating your vehicles You will need to leave your prime parking space during the project. The contractors are going to need easy access to their trucks and tools during the project. They will also need space for loading debris and shingles. Until the work is done, you should try keeping your car at a safe distance. It is also a good idea to close your garage door to keep out debris and dust. 3. Removing wall decorations There will be a lot of vibration from the machinery and hammers, and this might travel to your home. This is common when existing decks are needed. Have a walk through the room below the roof. Check for pictures or any other items hanging from the walls or ceiling. If there are decorations not secured with screws, consider removing them as a precaution. You might also have to remove decorative light fixtures such as chandeliers, just to be on the safe side. 4. Covering belongings in the attic During the project, roofers will be walking on the roof and pounding it. Small debris and dust are going to fall in attic spaces as a result. Covering your personal items using drop cloths or old sheets is a good idea. Once the project has been done, vacuum the areas that were affected. 5. Moving grills and patio furniture away from the work site A garage or shade is the best place of storing outside items such as patio furniture, lawn ornaments, grills, and potted plants when the roof installation is being done. If there is no garage on-site, then consider putting them together in an area of the yard that is a safe distance from the work site. You should remember that most contractors might not help in moving items outside or inside your home. 6. Pruning trees and cutting grass before the work starts Before the contractor can start working, tree branches hanging lower or near the roof needs to be cut or trimmed. The contractor should use drop cloths so that it protects plants and grass around the work area, but you have to cut the grass a day or two before the project starts. Having short grass is important because debris will not hide in the lawn, and cleaning up will be a little easier and thorough. 7. Identifying several accessible power outlets The roofing team will be using power outlets when working. The best option is an exterior outlet, but if you don’t have it, a garage outlet is the second option. If there is no outlet in your garage, then extension cords will be used, and they are going to run through the door or window to get power outside. You should choose an outlet in an area that doesn’t get much foot traffic because extension cords can trip people. 8. Removing antennas or satellite dishes If there are antennas or satellite dishes on or near the roof, you need to remove them. Give your satellite or cable provider a call before the project so they can make arrangements before the work starts. If it is an old unit you are no longer using, the contractor will remove and dispose the unit. 9. Talking to your neighbors You should let the neighbors know there is work being done on your house. You should also give them an estimate of how long it is going to take. They are going to be thankful because it gives them the chance of adjusting their schedules and situation so they can be comfortable during the project. 10. Being aware of the surroundings during the project There will be unexpected obstacles during construction. The construction equipment and extension cords that are usually not there can create some opportunities for you to hurt yourself. This is why it is important to be alert during the project so you can avoid getting hurt. It is very important to be in constant communication with the roofer during the roof installation project. You should ask them whether there are any suggestions they have to make the project smoother for both your family and the roofing crew. Keep in mind the inconvenience caused by the project is temporary. You will be able to have the roof you have been waiting for. Do you need new roofing? If you are looking for a new roof for your home, you should work with roofers you can trust so that you will have some peace of mind during the process. Contact Ultimate Roofing or visit our website so you will be able to get a free in-home consultation where any concerns or questions will be addressed. 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! 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! 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 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 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! |
AuthorUltimate Roofing is a well-established roofing company serving Albany New York and the Greater Capital Region. We proudly offer both Archives
April 2019
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