Albany homeowners usually invest into their roofing projects in the early fall or late summer season to get it ready and prepped for the winters. It’s the time of the year when professional roofing companies and roof inspectors are busiest.

But while everyone is busy fixing their roofing problems in this peak season, there’s a chance you won’t be able to find a contractor if you haven’t planned ahead. Plus, the peak season will mean higher expenses and lesser time and attention to individual projects.

The weather around fall (September-October) might be ideal to get roofing repairs and new installations, but there is another season that could prove as a great option for your roofing projects – winters.

You’ll Save More Money

Since the winter season is an off-season, roof contractors and companies will be more easily available and their prices will be more negotiable. You might end up getting a great bargain on your roof repairs if you get it done in the winter season.

You’ll Get More Time and Attention

In the peak summer/fall season, your roofing company might not be able to give your house enough time or proper attention since there will be a lot of competition and other work on their plates. In the winters, you might get the entire season to renovate and prepare it for another full year or two with the undivided attention from your roofing company.

The Drawbacks

There are some technical drawbacks of choosing the winter season to schedule your roof repairs. With the harsh weather conditions in some areas, your roof might be inaccessible on some days because of the snow and wet slope.

If you’re getting a new roof installed, you might also find some difficulty during the thermal sealing process of the shingles that require high temperatures to install. This could eventually add up to the final cost of your roof repair and installation.

The Bottom Line?

It’s best to plan ahead and try to choose a time at the very beginning of the off-season or the very end of the peak season. If you live in extremely cold environments, roof repairs should not be scheduled in the winters as they can increase the cost needed for thermal sealing of the shingles.

If you are local to Albany and looking for a quality and affordable roofing company, look no further than Ultimate Roofing!!!

We all love the image of befriending pretty little bluebirds and singing to them as they chirp in reply. That image, however, is pretty Disney-princess exclusive and does not apply to real life at all. Even if you’re a fan of birds, you cannot be a fan of the mess they leave behind. More often than not, your roof is the prime victim.

Birds tend to make nests, leave droppings and make a mess in general on your rooftop. These things might be frustrating to deal with but they are usually harmless.

Birds become a problem when they actually start causing damage to your roof. Some aviators will peck and peel the shingles of your roof and even clog your drainage system and gutters with nest remains. If that happens to your roof, you need to take immediate measures to stop the birds from inhabiting your roof since these problems can lead to greater damage to your roof in the long run.

#1: Lure the Birds Away
Birds might be harmful for your roof but they can bring the beauty out of your backyard or lawn. The best way to get rid of birds from your roof without actually expelling them altogether is to lure them to your backyard instead. Many people install bird feeders in their gardens to distract the birds and encourage them to inhabit the yard instead.

#2: Go Old School with a Scarecrow
Although a lot of birds are evolving and have learned that scarecrows are actually not live human beings, constructing one on your roof is worth a shot. It’s inexpensive, fun and easy.

#3: Use Bird Nests and Spikes
If the scarecrow method fails, you might have to invest into buying bird nests or bird spikes to keep the birds away from your roof. Bird spikes may not be the best option for those who don’t want to ruin the aesthetic of their home but it might be one of the most effective ways to keep birds away. These spikes deprive birds from an even surface where they can sit on and do not actually harm them.

Bird nests, on the other hand, are a tad bit impractical since they cannot cover a large area of your roof.

#4: Buy a Sonic Bird Repellent
If all else fails, you can drive birds away with a sonic repellent device that works by producing different sounds of predators. This is another effective way of keeping birds away from your roof but if you’re a strong animal-rights advocate, you may find the working of this device slightly displeasing and inappropriate.

If you are local to Albany and looking for a quality and affordable Albany roofing company, look no further than Ultimate Roofing!!!

Have you ever noticed the paint on your walls bubbling or mold starting to grow on top of your ceiling? It could be because of a leaky roof. Leaky roofs can sometimes be mild and can be fixed without the assistance of a qualified professional. But other times the damage can be catastrophic and you’ll need to call a professional roofer to fix it.

If you’ve noticed a leak in your ceiling or roof, here are a few tips you can follow to fix the problem.

Locate the Leak

Leaky ceilings and wet floors can point to a leaky roof problem. If the signs are ignored for a long time, the paint on your wall might start bubbling and damp, green patches of mold might find their way into your house. Mold can be harmful for the health of you and your family so spotting the leak and promptly addressing it is crucial.

If you’re unsure where the exact location of the leak is, have someone water the roof with a hose so you can see exactly where the water leaks into.

Check For Damages

Leaks can be caused by damaged or broken shingles, missing shingles or damaged shakes and connections. Once you have located the leak, inspect your roof for the point of damage. If you’re not sure how to do that, hire a professional roof inspection company to find out the root of the problem.

Fixing Shingles and Cracks

Shingles can break and even go entirely missing if your house is constantly exposed to harsh weathers, winds and storms. Missing shingles need to be replaced as soon as possible while broken shingles can be repaired or replaced. If your shingles are curling (a sign of aging), you should have the shingles replaced.

In cases you spot any cracks blisters on the roof, soak up any water collected into it and let it dry completely. Once it has dried, use roofing cement to cover it up.

Fixing leaky roofs can be an emergency.  Even though sometimes you can fix it yourself, it’s best to ask for help from a professional roofer to effectively solve the leak problem.

If you are local to Albany and looking for a quality and affordable roofing company in Albany, look no further than Ultimate Roofing!!!

So let's assume for a moment that a storm just hit Albany and suddenly you hear strange cracking, shattering noises coming from your roof. What do you do?

You wait until the storm passes and get to work immediately. It doesn’t matter if you’ve got a brand new sturdy roof installed or a decade old one, extreme weathers can take a toll on the best of the roofs. Fixing any post-storm damages becomes a house emergency because if the damage goes unattended, it could ultimately affect the structure of your actual house.

Emergency roof repairing involves fixing the problem yourself as you can. Chances are you won’t get a professional roofer on such a short notice after a bad storm but that shouldn’t stop you from getting to the bottom of the problem.

Inspect the Damage

Once the storm has passed – and this is important because if you start repairing during the harsh weather conditions, you might be putting your own life in danger or you might cause more damage to the roof as well – inspect your roof for any and every post-storm damages.

Check for any broken or missing shingles, clogged gutters, defective sliding, torn flashing or broken chimney pieces. If the damage is extensive, you might have to hire a professional roofing company to help you with your problem. But what you can do is take emergency measures to stop the damage from spreading.

Fix the Leaks

Damaged roofing will most certainly cause leakage and water to drip inside the roof and ceiling of your house. This is a problem because overtime the leaks can cause mold and mildew formation and they can also affect the paint on your wall negatively. Damages can also result in loss of insulation of the house.

You can control the leaks and water seepages by draining any collected water on the roof. Take measures to remove excess water or puddles that have formed as a result of rain.

Once the excess water has been drained, check for internal damages that could be causing the leaks. Blisters, cracks and broken shingles can all be important causes. Although you can’t replace shingles on an emergency basis, you can patch up and plug any cracks with items around the house such as sheets and duct tape.

Call for Help

Emergency roof repairs won’t last long and eventually you will have to hire a professional team to sort out the problem and fix any roofing damages that the storm might have caused.

If you are local to Albany and looking for a quality and affordable roofing contractor, look no further than Ultimate Roofing!!!

Your roof is probably the most ignored part of your house but it’s definitely the most exposed one as well. It’s true that you won’t have anyone climb on your roof and make sure it’s clean and spotless but for the sake of your own house hygiene and to avert a potential crisis, you should make sure your roof is regularly cleaned and washed.

Storms, snow and rain can bring dirt and dust with them to your roof. Birds and critters can leave their droppings all over the shingles as well.

Save a Date for Roof-Cleaning

Here’s the thing – cleaning your roof isn’t the same as cleaning other parts of your house. For starters, it’s an extensive and time consuming process because you’ve got a lot of ground to cover. Getting water and all of the required cleaning products up to your roof is also a tiring, challenging process.

That’s why it’s important that your clear your schedule and allot a particular day for cleaning your roof. It could be on a Sunday morning when you’re free at home. Try to fit at least two days of roof cleaning chores a month in your schedule. Also while you’re at it, make sure the weather that day is favorable for you to clean your roof.

Choose Roof-Friendly Chemical Products

Shingles on your roof don’t have a particularly long lifespan and if you happen to choose strong household detergents and chemicals to clean them, you might just be decreasing their mortality.

Household chlorine bleach can seriously damage your shingles, flashings and gutters. These bleaches are strongly acidic and have corrosive properties that can be damaging to your sensitive shingles. Moreover, bleach works to remove superficial stains so while it may help to clean your roof apparently, it’s not doing much of a job cleaning your shingles beneath.

Experts recommend that chemical products that contain sodium hydroxide as the main active ingredient are much more useful to clean shingles and keep the mold at bay.

Hire a Professional Roofer

If your roof is too dirty to be cleaned yourself then save your time and energy by calling a professional roofer to get the job done. Professional roofing contractors are experienced at all things roofing and can help you out with your roofing problems quickly and efficiently.

If you are local to Albany and looking for a quality and affordable roofing company, look no further than Ultimate Roofing!!!

It’s no secret that asphalt roofs are still the most common and popular roofing material across the word. They are affordable and aesthetic and come with a lot of different varieties. But with the market for asphalt so hot, it sometimes becomes difficult to tell good quality asphalt shingle from a bad one.

Price isn’t everything

When you’re planning to install a new roof, you want to make sure you pay for what you’re getting and sometimes you’ll have to pay a little more than you had originally anticipated to get the best quality asphalt.

But here’s a catch – sometimes price isn’t the best indicator of good quality either. With the asphalt roofing market so competitive, there’s a chance you might just be ripped off.

Durability and Sturdiness

The most important factor you need to consider when buying new asphalt shingles is how long they will last. Normally asphalt shingles can last for about 20 years in the Albany area until they need to be completely replaced. This number can increase or decrease depending upon the quality of the asphalt you’re buying.

The durability and sturdiness of the asphalt is the most important factor to take into account when buying your new shingles. The more durable your asphalt it, the longer it will last and the more resistant it will be against extreme weathers.

The Right Color Selection

Asphalt shingles come in a huge range of colors and designs. Choosing what will suit your house structure the most will be a great investment and uplift the aesthetics of your house as a whole. Colors that complement your house sliding or your walls are colors for your roof you should consider.

Another important thing to remember when picking out your color of choice is the right shade. You should avoid buying dark shades or colors of asphalt if you live in a warm, temperate climate since black absorbs heat.

Warranties

The length of the warranty can give you a sensible indication of how long the asphalt shingle will actually last. Shingles with short warranties are normally not meant to last for a long time and you should steer clear of them even if it will save you a few extra dollars.

If you are local to Albany and looking for a quality and affordable roofing company, look no further than Ultimate Roofing!!!

Roofs in Albany generally last a little over a decade to 15 years and if it is time to get your roof replaced, you will want to consider the cost and pricing involved in this process. To put it up front, Roof replacement is not a cheap investment. It will probably cost you a couple of thousand dollars so it’s always a good idea to plan ahead.

You should start saving up money when the age limit of your roof draws nearer so you can get the latest and the best roof installed in your home.

Although roof replacement is expensive, there is a chance you could be paying more than what you’re getting. To correctly identify where your money is going, you need to know exactly how much each component of roof replacement will contribute in the final cost of the process.

Size of the Roof

It’s a no brainer that the more squares per feet your roof needs to cover, the higher the price will be. Generally professional roofers have a fixed rate but there is no harm in trying to negotiate the pricing of the roof per square foot installed.

Slope of the Roof

The slope of the roof can make quite a difference in your final roof replacement cost. The steeper the slope is, the more difficult it will be to replace it and hence will be pricier.

Materials

Asphalt shingle roof is the most affordable and popular option even now but the trends are shifting towards metal roofing now. Metal and steel roofing is a lot more expensive than the average asphalt but if you’re good with staying traditional then asphalt might be your best buy. The quality of the asphalt can also affect the final cost of the roof replacement. Sturdier, longer lasting asphalt with long warranties are expected to be pricier than those that do not have these features.

Removing the Old Roof

The process of removing old shingles and fixing any existing damages to prepare your roof for a brand new installation can shoot the final price up. That’s why it’s always recommended to have regular roof repairs and inspections to minimize damages throughout the life of your roof.

Roof Features

Extra features such as chimneys and skylights might add to the final cost of your roof replacement as well.

If you are local to Albany and looking for a quality and affordable roofing company, look no further than Ultimate Roofing!!!

Like everything in the world, your roof also has a set time limit and age. Some roofs last longer than others because of important factors that affect their mortality. Generally asphalt roofs can last a good 15 to 20 years given that you constantly maintain it and have scheduled roof repairs. Once the age limit has been reached, though, your roof will need to be replaced.

The question of why some roofs last longer than others has a pretty clear-cut answer. Multiple factors can contribute to the age of the roof’s life.

Metal vs. Shingle

Shingle roofing has been the tradition for centuries and they are still hot in the roofing market because of the variety in color, style and properties they offer. Asphalt shingles are generally the most popular one and can last for about twenty years give or take. Other shingle roofing materials such as cement or cedar are sturdier and have an average life of 25 and 30 years respectively. The quality of the brand also must be taken in account for when it comes to the age of your roof.

Alternatively, metal roofing can last for multiple decades and even your entire life because they are less likely to be damaged and are more resilient to weather damage. Metal and steel is also easier to clean and maintain and there isn’t a problem of algae or fungus growth with them either. All of these factors help make metal roofing a lot more long-lasting than the average shingle roof.

Weather Damages

If you live in an area where extreme weather conditions are frequent, your roof may not last for a long time. The climate you live in can greatly affect the longevity of your roof. That’s why two identical roofs in Minnesota and Alaska will both have different ages.

Storms and rains can damage the structure, shingles and gutters of your roof. Constant repairs might be needed to correct the damages and eventually the repairs will not be able to hold your roof in one piece. A new replacement will become a necessity.

If your roof is approaching its time limit, plan ahead and select a new roof to install. Consult with an expert Albany roofing company about the latest and best options in the market and replace your roof promptly.  

If you are local to Albany and looking for a quality and affordable roofing company, look no further than Ultimate Roofing!!!

Greenery belongs to your garden or your backyard; when it starts growing on your roof, it can be a problem. Your roof is constantly exposed to ideal conditions that promote plant, algae and fungus growth. The air, humidity and the occasional rain all provide a breeding ground for green growth.

The problem is this green growth on your roof not only poses a health risk for you and your family, it can also damage the structure of your roof in the long run. Shingles can lose their resilience, cracks and holes can form and mold can grow and find its way into the walls and ceiling of your house.

Do it Yourself!

The first step to getting rid of the greens from your roof is to evaluate how much work you actually require. If you’ve been staying on top of the maintenance and repair of your roof, you may still have time to nip the problem in the bud. Early algae and fungus growth can be removed without the help of professionals by herbicide.

Herbicide products that contain zinc can be damaging to your roof especially if your pipes are made up of copper. These sprays are easily available in any hardware store and can get rid of a variety of algae, fungus and lichen.

Defeat the Greens Around

Look for any signs nearby that could promote future green growth on your roof. Trees or shrubs nearby need to be trimmed or completely eliminated to protect your roof from green growth.

Choose Your Shingles Wisely

If you’re thinking of installing a new roof and want to prevent the trouble of getting rid of green growth in the first place, you should choose algae-resistant shingles instead of the average shingle. Alternatively you could opt for metal roofing.

Call a Professional for Help

If the growth has come to the point that mold has started to grow inside the vicinity of your house, your last and best option is to call a professional team of mold inspectors. It will cost you an extra hundred dollars but these experts will get rid of green growth from your roof once and for all.

If you are local to Albany and looking for a quality and  affordable roofing company, look no further than Ultimate Roofing!!!

Good roofing contractors are experts at finding out the slightest of problems that your roof may have. Regular roof repairs and roof inspections can help increase the life of your roof so you wouldn’t have to get a roof replacement too soon. Not only does roof inspection help to increase the life of your roof, it can also help to prevent any potential dangers that your house could incur as a result of damages in your roof. Minor damages can lead to bigger ones; therefore, to have an expert opinion on how to maintain your roof has now become a routine in a homeowner’s life.

Inadequate Previous Roof Repairs and Installation

If it isn’t your first time getting your roof repaired, your Schenectady roof company might notice inferior repairs and renovation from the last time. Especially if you have attempted to fix your roof problems yourself or had it done on a bargain, chances are you haven’t adequately renovated your roof or you might have even caused more damages.

Similarly, if you have had your roof installed recently, your roof inspector will notice immediately if the installation is clumsy and low-quality.

Drainage Issues

Arguably the most common roofing problem is proper drainage and moisture control. Leaks and clogged gutters are usually behind most of the long-term damages and mortality of your roof. When you get a roof inspection, the inspector will most likely find leaks or moisture damage that could be due to improper installation, weather damage or ponding.

Holes and Punctures

Roof inspectors often stumble across holes or spaces in your roofing structure that you might have overlooked. Punctures are particularly damaging since they can compromise the function of your roof as a shield.

Lack of Maintenance

A good Albany roofing company will be quick to judge how well you have been maintaining your roof. If you’ve gotten your roof repaired frequently, the roof inspector will know. The quality of your shingles, the gutters, flashing, sliding all can be tell-tale signs of how well you’ve been maintaining your roof.

If you are local to Albany and looking for a quality and affordable roofing company, look no further than Ultimate Roofing!!!

You probably haven’t seen metal roofing around a lot around the Albany area. Heck, you’ve probably only seen them in the more offside, peripheral areas of your city. It’s not because steel is cheaper or doesn’t look attractive. The only reason why people turn to other roofing materials (mostly asphalt) is because it can come in a variety of designs, colors and shapes. With steel though, the choice of how your roof will look is pretty limited.

But what if I tell you that metal, specifically, aluminum, is actually a better roofing material option than your average asphalt? Don’t believe it? Here are a few reasons why you should consider your new roof to be built in steel.

Tough as Nails. Practically Immortal.

The problem with your regular roofing materials is that they undergo constant wear and tear and need a lot of careful monitoring and maintenance. Even if you take care of your roof properly, get regular roof inspections and repairs, a time will come when the repairs and maintenance won’t be able to hold your roof anymore. You probably will have to replace your roof completely and that is a pretty big investment.

With steel, you make that investment the moment you install it. Steel roofs are relatively more expensive but they survive wear and tear and insult for decades – they’re practically immortal. You won’t have to worry about maintaining your roof or getting constant repairs if you have a steel roof installed.

Weight Matters.

Unlike concrete and other earth-based materials, steel is light in weight but incredibly durable and strong. Shingle roofs are a lot heavier than a steel roof – that’s important. And I’ll tell you why.

The roof sits on top of your house and ultimately can weigh down on the structure of your house. A heavy asphalt/shingle roof can affect and weigh down a lot more than steel can. This could decrease the lifespan of your actual house. Installing a lighter roof made of steel will increase the longevity of both your house and your roof.

It’s Not Eye-Candy but Definitely Classy!

Here’s where preferences matter and opinions can form. For those who love variety and color in their roof, steel isn’t the best option for them. But for those who want to avoid going down the tacky road at all costs and want to stick with simple, neutral aesthetics that will probably be in fashion for a long time, choose steel. It’s modern and a lot classier than the traditional shingle rooftops.

Researching local Albany roofing companies and looking for someone you can trust?  Call Ultimate Roofing today!

Shingle roofs are still a thing and will remain a thing for a very long time. If you haven’t moved on to the more modern roofing options like steel and would like to remain on the traditional side, then considering what kind of shingle roof you need becomes the next question you need to ask yourself.  Be sure to contact an Albany roofing contractor that can give you honest information without attempting to hard sell you.

There are plenty of options for shingle roofs available: asphalt, rock, cedar etc. While every material has its upsides and downsides, the benefits of asphalt outweigh the others most. If you’re planning to get a new roof installed at your home, you need to consider an asphalt shingle roof and here are some reasons why:

It’s Pretty Affordable

Okay so it might not be the most luxurious option but then again shingle and luxurious don’t really mix. Compared to other more costly shingle roof materials like cedar, asphalt is more cost-effective and the best part is it lasts longer than the other shingle roof types. You’ll be doing your bank account a lot of favor if you go down the asphalt roofing road.

It Offers Variety

We all want to stand out and add a little spice to our house. That’s the great thing about asphalt – it is available in a lot of different colors and you can choose any one of them that fits the aesthetics of your home.

Easy Maintenance

Regular roof inspections will become much less regular if you choose the asphalt roofing road. Asphalt is relatively easier to maintain than other shingle roof materials and definitely a lot easier to maintain than metal. Sure the shingles can get damaged like in any other shingle rooftop but the process of removing and replacing them is a lot easier with asphalt roofing.

Furthermore, asphalt is also a lot easier to install than other shingle roof types.

Environmentally Friendly

Asphalt is a recyclable material so if you ever have broken shingles to throw out or replace, you can always recycle them for future use. That’s a win-win for both you and the environment.  Local to Albany?  Contact Ultimate Roofing today.  

When you’re planning to get your roof replaced, you need to consider all of the latest options you can use to get the most out of your roof.

Luckily the latest trends in the roofing industry are usually environmental-friendly and they’re not crazy expensive either. In fact, you might find most of the services cheaper than ever before.

Not sure how you can make your new roof environmentally friendly? Here are top three tips that can help you out:

#1: Choose Your Colors Wisely

We’ve all heard that black absorbs heat and white reflects it. That’s basic 7th grade knowledge. But surprisingly a lot of homeowners tend to ignore this science when it comes to their houses. Since black arguably looks more elegant and expensive (it’s also easier to clean!), many people choose dark colors for their roofs even if they’re living in the hot arid areas of Arizona.

Choosing a lighter color for your roof will help keep the heat away from your house and it will help keep away the heat from your surroundings as well. If you happen to live in an environment that is inherently hot, consider going for lighter color options.

#2: Flat or Slope?

Sloped roofs have been around forever and they are still considered the classic roof type. You’re not going to see a 5 year old draw a house with a flat rooftop anytime soon either. But with the advent of energy-friendly solar panels and the trend of vertical or container gardening, many homeowners are shifting to flatter rooftops.

Flat rooftops also look more aesthetic and modern than the traditional A-framed rooftops so if you worry about appearances, flat roofs are definitely something to keep in mind before installing your new roof.

#3: Environment-friendly Tiles

New and improved Spanish tiles are now available to use for your rooftops that are a lot more environmentally friendly and last longer than their predecessors. Spanish tiles are also recyclable and have a pretty good insulation property. But if you don’t want to go that road, choosing a natural material like rock for your shingles could be another option as well.

Environment-friendly roofing is a great choice that can not only benefit your surroundings but most importantly, they can be healthier for you and your family.  Albany offers much winter weather that can damage your roof so be sure to hire a great Albany roofing company that can do the work the right way.  Call Ultimate Roofing today!

It doesn’t matter how old your roof is. Even if you have had your roof installed a week ago, you need to start taking measures to maintain it. Your roof might be one of the neglected parts of the house that could suffer from a lot of insult if you don’t take care of it. Maintaining your roof the right way should be a priority to increase the lifespan of your roof and to save yourself the trouble of constant repairs and roof installations.  Especially living here in the Albany area, it is important with the winter weather to stay on top of this..

Get Regular Roof Inspections

Roof inspections are not free but they’re definitely worth it. Regular roof inspections can protect you from a bigger disaster in the future and save your money in the long run. Hiring professionals to evaluate the condition of your roof is important because you’re not an expert. They are.

Roof companies can inspect can pick out minor details and warning signs. They can point out a worn out or broken shingle that you may have overlooked when you did your own personal inspection. To properly maintain your roof, call your roof inspection company on a regular basis and save yourself from the stress and worry.

Check the Drains

Sometimes you don’t need a qualified professional to point out an obvious cause of concern. Clogged gutters and drain can cause water from rain or snow to collect on top of your roof. This might seem innocent to the eye but it actually encourages the growth of mold, algae and a smell you don’t want to have wafting near your house.

Mold, in particular, can damage your ceilings and it can spread to the walls and other parts of your house. If you don’t address the issue of improper drainage immediately, you could be taking out your wallet to pay for the much pricier mold inspection team.

Clear the Clutter

None of us likes a messy house and none of us should like a messy rooftop either. Clean the clutter and debris from your roof regularly to avoid leaves, trees and animals from making a home up there. If you live in an area where winds are wild and storms are a norm, you should keep a broom for your roof ready every time the weatherman warns of an upcoming gust of wind.

Looking for a great Albany roofing contractor you can trust?  Call Ultimate Roofing today!

A roof inspection must be something performed regularly but most of us need active persuasion to pick up that phone and dial the roofing company’s number. While appropriate scheduling of roof inspections is recommended, it becomes a necessity when you start seeing some clear-cut signs that could affect your roof and in turn, your house.

Here are a few warning signs to look out for that should prompt you to hire a professional roof inspection company to get your roof properly evaluated.

#1: Broken or Missing Shingles

If you have a shingles roof, you should know those shingles have a particular lifespan. They begin showing obvious signs of aging (curling, breaking, going entirely missing) that could affect their purpose. They could also become weak and break easily when you walk on them.

These shingles form the backbone of your roof and if they’re not in their top shape, it could be pretty damaging to the entire structure of your house. Sometimes shingles break and wear out because they have endured a lot of harsh weather conditions over the years. Missing shingles are a sign that an unwanted animal could be making a habitat in your roof.

Whatever the reason for broken and missing shingles is, the moment you notice something is wrong you need to hire a qualified professional to take a look at it.

#2: Mold Growing

Mold is a classic problem when the gutters of your roof are clogged or blocked. When water from rain, hail and snow does not properly drain, mold and algae could start growing and breeding on your rooftop.

While mold might initially seem harmless (it’s just some soft, green stuff anyway, right?) it could pose health hazards for you and your family. Mold is the biggest enemy for anyone who has allergies or suffers from respiratory problems. Mold could also spread to your walls and make them look old and worn out.

Getting rid of mold is tricky and expensive so call for a roof inspection before any of that happens!

#3: Evidence of a Flora and Fauna Invasion

Critters like to make a home in places you can’t reach them, and that’s usually your roof. Similarly, plants and trees have a way of growing excessively on your roof as well. This can not only potentiate damage to your roof but the debris of all of trees and leaves could clog your drains as well.

While a gardener or an exterminator seems an obvious solution for this problem, you need to make sure you know of the damage already done by these animals and trees.   Local to Albany and looking for help?  Call an Albany roof company that can help solve that problem for you quickly and efficiently.  Call Ultimate Roofing today!

A roof inspection must be something performed regularly but most of us need active persuasion to pick up that phone and dial the roofing company’s number. While appropriate scheduling of roof inspections is recommended, it becomes a necessity when you start seeing some clear-cut signs that could affect your roof and in turn, your house.

Here are a few warning signs to look out for that should prompt you to hire a professional roof inspection company to get your roof properly evaluated.

#1: Broken or Missing Shingles

If you have a shingles roof, you should know those shingles have a particular lifespan. They begin showing obvious signs of aging (curling, breaking, going entirely missing) that could affect their purpose. They could also become weak and break easily when you walk on them.

These shingles form the backbone of your roof and if they’re not in their top shape, it could be pretty damaging to the entire structure of your house. Sometimes shingles break and wear out because they have endured a lot of harsh weather conditions over the years. Missing shingles are a sign that an unwanted animal could be making a habitat in your roof.

Whatever the reason for broken and missing shingles is, the moment you notice something is wrong you need to hire a qualified professional to take a look at it.

#2: Mold Growing

Mold is a classic problem when the gutters of your roof are clogged or blocked. When water from rain, hail and snow does not properly drain, mold and algae could start growing and breeding on your rooftop.

While mold might initially seem harmless (it’s just some soft, green stuff anyway, right?) it could pose health hazards for you and your family. Mold is the biggest enemy for anyone who has allergies or suffers from respiratory problems. Mold could also spread to your walls and make them look old and worn out.

Getting rid of mold is tricky and expensive so call for a roof inspection before any of that happens!

#3: Evidence of a Flora and Fauna Invasion

Critters like to make a home in places you can’t reach them, and that’s usually your roof. Similarly, plants and trees have a way of growing excessively on your roof as well. This can not only potentiate damage to your roof but the debris of all of trees and leaves could clog your drains as well.

While a gardener or an exterminator seems an obvious solution for this problem, you need to make sure you know of the damage already done by these animals and trees.   Local to Albany and looking for help?  Call an Albany roof company that can help solve that problem for you quickly and efficiently.  Call Ultimate Roofing today!

We have had the opportunity to do our fair share of roofing projects here in Albany and surrounding area. We have been finding that more people are considering installing skylights as part of their homes to core for a multitude of reasons.

Skylights are a great way to reduce your power consumption and your overall utility bill. There are a great source of natural light and an excellent alternative to using electricity either for your home or your place of business.   Natural light is far more inviting than fluorescent lights and will go along way to brighten up your home.

With more homes being designed to have an open concept, the idea of enhancing your lighting to bring natural light and sunshine is the most effective way to transform any space in your house.

Skylights are cost-effective and able to help you reduce your reliance on the electric company which will naturally lower your electric bill. Sometimes there are ways for you to qualify for tax benefits.   The best type of skylight is what is called a ventilating skylight which will help to improve the condition of your air in your home especially during the summer months where it gets hot towards your ceilings.

This concept of ventilation can be accomplished by using electrically powered skylights which will help to introduce fresh air in your home and provide a healthy space where warm air is creating more balance in your home.

This is one not many people think about. It is the idea of more privacy by having skylights. If the goal is to have more lighting in your home you would normally have to add more windows which reduces your amount of privacy. Skylights allow you to add light vertically without sacrificing privacy.

If you are interested in the idea of adding skylight to your home and modifying your roof, be sure to contact Albany roofing companies that have proven credentials to do this type of work.

Being in the contractor business exposes us to all kinds of people. We have heard horror stories from customers of ours who had hired another roofing contractor only to have a disaster of on experience.

It is extremely important for you to do your due diligence to ensure you identify and qualify the right Albany roofing companies that you can trust to do the job right the first time.

We know you have other choices when it comes to roofing contractors and want to ensure you are well educated on what to look for when it comes time to hire the right company.

The first thing you want to find out is if they have the proper credentials and that everything is in good standing.  Are they properly licensed  and do they have a certificate of insurance proving they have enough coverage in the event you had to file a claim against them.   This is of utmost importance as a means of protecting you against any financial obligations in the future.

Something else to consider is what their safety record is. You want to find out the roofing contractors EMR (Experience Modification Rates).   A reading under one is proof that the roofing contractor puts a safe working environment first.

Are they able to provide you with a quality and thorough roofing proposal?   Providing you with a quote over the phone is not going to do you any good. It is extremely important for the roofing company to come out to your home or place of business and do a technical audit of your roof. They need to survey the roof and use the appropriate equipment you scan for moisture and any other problems in order to give you an accurate and reliable quote that will not change as the project develops.

Another question you want to ask is the level of communication they maintain during the project.  Are they sharing with you that they are on task to complete on time or are they having challenges. With her on expected problems with your roof that are going to increase the price? We need to find out the level of communication to expect to ensure there are no problems down the road.

At the end of the day, you want to hire a roofing contractor that is professional, affordable and thorough in their work. If you are looking for a quality all bring roofing company, please consider giving Ultimate Roofing a call today!

When it comes to different types of roofing systems for homes around the Albany area, most homeowners use shingles more than any other kind of roofing material available.  Not surprisingly, about 80% of all the homes in the Capital Region have shingles on their roofs.

We thought to share some good information about shingles see you understand why they're so popular and why they are a great choice for you if you are in need of a new roof for your home.

Shingle roofs are extremely durable and can handle the elements with EZ. They last a significantly long time and if they are installed properly, have the shingle roofs are extremely durable and can handle the elements with ease. They last a significantly long time and if they are installed properly, have the potential to protect your home from the elements for more than 20 years.   The ability for your roof to last a long time we'll always depend on the quality of the installation done by the Albany roofing company and the grade of the shingle used.   If cost is not a huge factor, you always want to consider using thicker higher-quality shingles that will be more durable and have higher wind resistance ratings.

Shingles are extremely cost-effective as compared to other roofing choices like metal or slate.   They are very easy to install which makes your installation costs significantly lower than other options.   Couple this with great manufacturer warranties you are very likely to save a substantial amount of money over the long haul.

For those of you who are environmentally conscious, you should be happy to know that roofing shingles are recyclable. They are echo friendly at all of the roofing shingles can be recycled with ease.  Be sure to interview roofing companies to find out if they use green products.

Lastly, shingles come in many different colors and tones, giving you many options to match your home or surrounding area. If you are looking to create a specific look, there is almost an unlimited amount of options available to you.

If you are currently researching Albany roofing companies and not sure what to do next, we invite you to call Ultimate Roofing today.   We have been installing residential and commercial roofing systems for over 15 years.

As the fall weather continues to approach us here in the Albany area, more people are showing concern for their roof and ensuring that they are in proper working order. Further, homeowners want to ensure  at their homes are adequately insulated a protected from the elements.

It is important to have a strong, well installed roof in your home but it is equally important to ensure you have the right type of insulation to keep your house warm.

Most people are familiar with the rolled insulation you can buy at Home Depot.  This is called batts.  This is an old middle English term that means a lump of cloth material, much like you would find in a quilt.  This type of insulation is extremely popular can use in attics around the Capital Region.

If you are researching Albany roofing companies, you want to work with someone who will help to insulate your attic with cellulose or fiberglass blown in insulation.   The reason for this is blown in insulation provides better coverage in your attic, it will trap more air than batts and will ensure maximum density of insulation.

The R value is extremely important when having insulation installed.  You want to be careful to work with a company that doesn't attempt to fluff the blown in insulation which is actually creating less of an insulation barrier and will reduce your home is ability to retain heat.

It is important for you to do your due diligence when looking for a roofing company. You want to work with somebody who has experience installing both residential and commercial roofs in the capital region.   A company that will not cut corners and do the job right the first time.

If you are considering having a new roof installed or thinking you might need some roof repairs, please contact Ultimate Roofing today & schedule your free onsite evaluation.

When you’re getting a new house or if you’re replacing your roof after it has been damaged, you want to make sure the shingles you choose for your roof are aesthetic and complement your house in general. The roof of your house makes a first impression to any outsider and you want to make sure you make a solid first impression. It doesn’t matter if your kitchen cabinetry is marble and A-one if the shingles of your roof are mismatched in color and look tacky.

Deciding what color of the shingle you want for your new roof is important to make a good first impression.   There are many different selections that we see with our many other clients in Albany.  Not sure how you can do that? Here are some helpful tips.

Color Coordination with Your House

Your roof isn’t a separate entity; it’s a part of your house. The color of the materials you’ve built your house with should be a good indication of the color of shingles you should get for your new roof. If your house is built in grey shades, you should go for a black or dark gray rooftop. Alternatively if the overall look of your house is built in white stone, then adding a dark roof to give your house a more traditional feel is also a good option to consider.

How’s the Weather Up There?

Science plays an important part in deciding what color of shingles you should get on your rooftop. It’s a basic scientific fact that black absorbs heat and white reflects it. So if you live in an area that has a hot climate, you should steer clear from dark shingles. On the other hand, if the temperature is usually in the minus range where you live, dark colored shingles should become a necessity to absorb as much warmth and heat from the sun as possible.

Are You Trend-Conscious?

Nothing stays in fashion for a long time. The color or type of shingles you’re getting right now might be trendy this year but could be totally out of fashion next year. If you’re worried about staying in fashion, consider safer colors that are guaranteed to stay trending for a long time. Bold pastel colors are the thing right now but neutral shades will forever remain classy and sophisticated.

Ultimate Roofing offers residential and commercial roofing services to Albany and the surrounding Capital Region.

We all age and so does the roof of our house. There’s a certain age limit to each and everything in the universe and while death is irreplaceable, roofs are. But sometimes, a simple roof inspection followed by repair can correct the damage of your roof. Other times, you might need to completely replace your roof.

So how can you tell when it is time to panic and when you need your roof replaced? There are some classic warning signs and red flags to look out for if you’re confused about getting a repair done or entirely substituting your old roof with a new one.

The Age of the Material

What your roof is made up of can determine how long it will last. Normally cedar and asphalt roofing has an age limit of 20-25 years after which they start deteriorating. Tiled roofs generally don’t have a fixed lifespan but when the individual tiles start cracking easily, that’s when you know the roof is old and needs to be replaced. Sometimes tiled roofs may take a long time to break and they can last for up to a hundred years. Concrete, on the other hand, is immortal and never needs replacing; only repairing.

When NOT to Panic

Some common roofing problems like blocked drainage by rainwater debris and plants only needs fixing. Leaks and improperly sealed flashing and vents also only need repairing. If your roof is covered with mold, it’s because your roof has a faulty drainage system but there’s no need to panic. Most of the times leaks are easily fixed and mold eliminated.

When to Panic

Any apparent issue with the shingles of your roof should raise red flags. Shingles curling upwards from the edges or curling from the middle mean they no longer can support harsh weather conditions and need to be replaced. If the shingles start breaking, cracking or if they start going missing because of a storm, you need to get ready to replace your roof. Shingles make the backbone of your roof; any problem with shingles should prompt you into action.

Finally, the last sign that your roof needs immediate replacement is the whole roof sagging.  This is popular in the outskirts of Albany.  This can be potentially harmful for you and your family and you need to buy a new roof as soon as you can. Hiring a roof inspector can help you make a sound decision on repairing versus replacing as well so don’t be afraid to spend a few extra dollars to stay on the safe side.

Ultimate Roofing is a roofing company that services Albany, Troy, Schenectady and the Greater Capital Region.