Category: blog

How to Pick the Right Shingles for Your Roof

Written by on 07 April 2017. ♦ Blog  ♦ Roof Shingles

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It is normal for homeowners and tenants not to think about the roof until the problem worsens. It is only after noticing a leak that most people even remember about the roof. The roof protects your biggest investment. Consequently, the roof needs just as much attention. One way of giving it the much-needed attention is by picking the right shingles. Picking shingles is a decision that involves more than focusing on pricing alone. If you have never picked them what you have to know is that it is essential to base your choice on numerous factors that include the following:

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Durability

The best shingles are durable. As durable as they are, shingles are prone to damages. Like everything else, they eventually suffer from continued exposure to the elements. Many times, the durability of the shingles depends on the maintenance you give them. They are not high maintenance products. Nonetheless, they need some service. You have the option of choosing any type of shingle. Clay shingles last longer than other types. The other durable types are metal shingles and synthetic slate shingles.

Cost

The local retailer is likely to sell shingles to you per square foot. Before dashing to the market to look at the available options, take a tape measure and use it to calculate the roof’s length and width. What you eventually get depends on what you pay. If you need shingles that are more durable, you will have to pay more. Shingles that only provide you with short term benefits tend to cost less. Therefore, avoid spending more in the long term by paying more now to get a solution that will last you several years.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width="1/2"][vc_column_text]

Energy Efficiency

When choosing shingles, you should pay some attention to energy efficiency. Some types of shingles perform better compared to the rest. Some shingles offer more regarding insulation compared to others. With such roofing materials, you are guaranteed to enjoy warmth and coolness when you need it. Better yet is the fact that you end up saving a lot of money due to the lowered utility bills. With the right shingles installed, you do not have to keep running your heater or air conditioner as much as you did before. Some of the most energy efficient types include:
  1. Tiles
  2. Cedar shingles

Style

The next factor is the style. Some types of shingles are more stylish compared to the rest. There is nothing wrong in basing your selection purely on cost and durability. However, basing the choice on these four factors gives you the chance to make a more informed and well-thought decision. Curb appeal is just as important as the other factors. After all, nobody intentionally wants to live in a house that looks ugly and extremely unpleasant to the eye. Some of the most attractive types of shingles you should consider for your home include the following:
  • Laminate shingles
  • Cedar shake shingles

Color

Similar to style is color. The right color improves the curb appeal of your property just as much as style. Before choosing the right color, look at it in the sun and shade. Some colors look different when exposed to the sun as they do when with a bit of darkness. Do not forget to choose and use colors that complement the rest of your property. Avoid shingles with loud or extremely bold colors. When choosing the right color, it is advisable that you do not ignore the local climate. Choose light colored shingles to reflect the sun, thus lowering temperatures. Contact roofing experts for more information on how to choose the right shingles for your roof.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_video link="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zyr1Th0Jd6M" align="center"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_text_separator][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Cities that we service:

Grand Rapids, Grandville, Lancaster, Red Lion [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

How to Fix a Leaky Roof

Written by on 28 March 2017. ♦ Blog  ♦ roof leak

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Minor roof leaks are fixable without any professional input from a licensed roofing contractor. As for major leaks, the input of the professional contractors is mandatory. In fact, in some places, the law expressly states that such jobs must be performed by licensed contractors alone. Here you will receive knowledge to help you fix the small leaks. Irrespective of the size of the leak, all work done to fix the problem must take place when the conditions are dry. Part of the reason for this is it is harder for you to slip and fall from the roof when working in dry conditions.

The work you do should revolve around:

  1. Fixing the shingles
  2. Roll roofing
  3. Fixing the damaged shakes
  4. Working on the connections
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Fix the Shingles

The first task you do should be to fix the shingles. Missing, cracked, curled, buckled or cupped shingles are the biggest causes of leaks. Examine the roofing material located just above the place where you have noticed the leak. It is easier to do this on flat roofs. Curled shingles need a bit of straightening. Use copious amounts of asphalt roof compounds or cement to reattach the shingles that you just straightened. Apply this compound on the exposed parts of the shingles for the maximum result before replacing the damaged units.

Fix the Roll Roofing

The next task is to inspect the roofing material for cracks and blisters. Find ways of mending the blisters. Look for good roofing cement. Apply generous amounts of the product under the loose materials before pressing it down. Next, you need some galvanized roofing nails. Drive these nails on each of the sides of the blisters or cracks that you just repaired. The work is incomplete until you have covered whole top section with some roofing cement. While at it, do not forget to cover the nail heads.

Fix the Damaged Shakes

The other cause of roof leaks you need to address effectively is damaged shakes. Look for a good hammer or chisel and use it to split the damaged shakes. Before you do this, slide the hammer right beneath the shake to remove the damaged parts. While at it, you are likely to find some nails that stubbornly refuse all your efforts to pry them out. Here, feel free to use a hacksaw to cut off the ends. Be careful while doing this to avoid damaging the shakes that are in better condition. Cut new shakes and slide them into place.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width="1/2"][vc_column_text]

Fix the Connections

Lastly, you cannot fix the leaks if you continue ignoring the connections. Surfaces on the roof that connect require proper inspection. Such surfaces include the vent pipe and chimney. While inspecting it, the focus should be, on checking whether the caulking is damaged. If it is, consider reapplying the caulk. Do not leave any damaged caulking in place. If you do, the newly reapplied caulk will not bond well with the flashing or roof surface. Loosened caulk should be removed using a putty knife. Do not wait until the leak grows bigger to begin the search for solutions. A leak is worth fixing the first time you notice it. It is worth reiterating that a small leak is worth fixing alone without hiring any professional contractor to assist. Check that you have all the tools and materials needed to fix the leak before commencing. You will spend more money if you allow the leak to worsen. In time, leaks destroy the structural integrity of the building if you do not fix the issue soon enough. They mess with your energy bills by making the house cold. Contact a roofing contractor if you need to resolve the leak professionally and fast.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_video link="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xq8ouoFL-zs" align="center"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_text_separator][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Cities that we service:

Grand Rapids, Grandville, Lancaster, Red Lion [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

What to Do When Shingles are Missing on Your Roof

Written by on 15 March 2017. ♦ Blog  ♦ Shingles

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Driving around in a convertible or a topless car is considered a cool thing to do. Living in a roofless house is anything but cool. Whether the roof has one or several shingles missing, the last thing you can do is to take the situation lightly. Missing shingles are the closest thing you will get to a roof disease. It is a symptom that hints at a much bigger problem. Do not ignore this problem. It might be difficult to notice missing shingles, especially if located in an inaccessible part of the roof. For such, you should hire a roofer to help you.

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Do not Panic

It is important for you to realize why missing shingles is not a simple matter. Knowing the causes helps you to identify the most appropriate solutions. Improper nailing is one of the causes. This occurs during installation. A specific pattern has to be followed when nailing the shingles in place. Failing to adhere to this pattern leads to problems later. Problems normally occur when the installer engages in what is known as ‘skip nailing.' Adhere to the manufacturer’s instructions on the number of nails to use per shingle. Other common causes of missing shingles include:
  1. The wrong pattern of installation
  2. Drying and cracking
  3. The wind

Continue with Inspection and Maintenance

The best situation you can be in is to conduct roof inspection and maintenance regularly. Failure to do this would make it harder for you to notice missing shingles. After all, the roof is elevated rather than being at your eye level. Immediately after you identify the missing shingles, your next task should be to see if you can fix the problem. A DIY approach would be sufficient, but only if you know what you are doing. If not, do not hesitate to hire a professional roofing contractor to repair or replace the shingles.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width="1/2"][vc_column_text]

Fix the Problem

When the problem is nothing more than loose shingles that are displaced from their original position, you would solve the issue by repositioning them. For the results to last, however, you would have to apply a sealant to ensure the shingles remain in position. If you notice this problem after a serious storm, a DIY approach would not work. For such, what you need is to consult a local roofing contractor. The demand for roofing contractors increases massively during or after rainstorms; hence, the necessity of acting quickly.

Consider Short Term Measures

Depending on the cause of the missing shingles, there are times when short-term measures would be fine. For example, you might focus on fixing the leak first to get you through the day or night. In some cases, you may have to do with short-term solutions until the rainstorm is over. Once the conditions are dry, you would be free to institute more permanent solutions. A roof repair project with a more broad-looking outlook would be fine at this point. Re-roofing would also be highly advisable to fix the problem permanently. Use Your Money Wisely Missing shingles are one of the factors you must base the choice of your next property investment on. Missing shingles, together with curled or buckled shingles, are a sign of disrepair and poor maintenance. Buy such a house only if you have the financial wherewithal required to conduct intense repairs. The exposure of the roof/shingles to the elements each year eventually causes serious damages. It is impossible for leaks not to accompany missing shingles. Ignoring missing shingles, therefore, says you do not worry about leaks. Therefore, do not panic just because you have noticed missing shingles on your roof. Missing shingles are capable of decreasing the value of your home substantially. They can cause leaks while messing with the insurability of your property. The best bet against missing shingles evolving into a much bigger problem is regular maintenance and inspection. This enables you to determine whether repairs are sufficient or there is a need to go for replacements. Hire a professional in case you must replace or install a new set of shingles.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_video link="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZluoIPZ1qTs" align="center"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_text_separator][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Cities that we service:

Grand Rapids, Grandville, Lancaster, Red Lion [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Ways to Fix Your Leaking Roof without Hiring a Professional

Written by on 08 March 2017. ♦ Blog  ♦ DIY Roofing

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Have you inspected and noticed that the roof is in a bad state? Well, the good news is that it is not mandatory to hire a professional roofer to fix the problem. Even if the issue is a leaking roof, a bit of DIY skill is all you need to rectify the problem and make the roof as good as new. Here, you will learn about the different ways of fixing a leaking roof.

Before working on your skills, it is important that you know the effect of living in a home with a leaking roof. A tiny leak is all that is required for the roof to sheath and rafters to rot. Unresolved leaks eventually affect the insulation by creating the right environment for mold to grow. Mold and moss will affect the health of your family members.

Back to fixing the leaking roof without hiring a professional. Here’s what you should do:

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Check for Signs

First, find the leak signs. Running water is one of the most obvious and straightforward signs. Climb on the roof and begin removing shingles from the area you suspect to be leaking. It is important to follow the path to identify the exact source of the leak. For the most part, the source tends to have rotting wood, water stains or discolored felt paper.

Patch the Roof

Next, you should learn how to patch a flat, leaking roof. For this work, you need a specially made primer plus a good patching system. The technique you use will often depend on the recommendations of the manufacturer whose primer or patching system you purchased. Patching the flat roof requires dry conditions. To patch the roof, you need the following materials:
  • Brush
  • Scissors
  • Primer
  • Patching system
  • Flat roof roller
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Inspect the Asphalt Shingles

Third, your attention should be on the asphalt shingles too. Typically, the shingles last around 20 years with proper maintenance. After lifting the damaged shingle, remove the nails. After doing this, remove the damaged shingles completely. Lift the tab that is just on top of the damaged area. Finish by cutting a new shingle to length and sliding it in. You need the following supplies:
  • Prybar
  • Hammer
  • Fresh asphalt shingle (s)
  • Roofing nails
  • Roofing adhesive

Keep an Eye Out for the Other Broken Systems

While on the roof fixing the leak, do not ignore other systems that need your attention too. Use longer nails for fixing laminated roofing shingles, which are notoriously thicker compared to their standard shingles. Make sure that the laminated roofing shingles are properly fastened to the roof before you go back down.

Fix the Flashing

The leaking flashing needs your attention too. Leaks occur when you hire an experienced person to install flashing. Poorly installed flashing will eventually cause leaks. A malfunctioning flashing is equally guilty of causing the roof to leak. To repair the flashing effectively, you will need the following items:
  • Screwdriver
  • Dusting brush
  • Flashing clips
  • Lead sealant
  • Sealant dispenser
Focus on the Connections Damaged connections need some attention too. Many times, you will notice that the source of the leak is the area on the roof that has connections. For such areas, your first task should be removing the damaged caulk. Next, clean the area before drying it completely. Afterward, give the repaired part adequate time to dry. Ascertain that all holes are properly plugged. As shown here, fixing leaks on roofs is not an impossible task. With the right tools and attention to details, you should have little difficulty identifying the source and fixing the leak. Do not be in a rush. Remember, there is nothing wrong in hiring a professional roofing contractor if you are unable to fix the leak properly. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_video link="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SOHcF1WOpko" align="center"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_text_separator][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Cities that we service:

Grand Rapids, Grandville, Lancaster, Red Lion [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

How to Hire the Right Roofing Contactor

Written by on 28 February 2017. ♦ Blog  ♦ Roofing contractor

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Building a home for your family is something you will probably do only once in life. The only thing that could force you to do this more than once is if the house is destroyed by natural disasters or fire. Even then, the decision will depend on your financial abilities, insurance company settling its commitment to you, and possessing the mental fortitude needed to build a new house again. However, what you will repeatedly do – or simply more than once – is hiring a roofing contractor to fix the problems and damages you notice on the roof.

Here is what you should do to hire the right roofing contractor:

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Ask for Quotes from Multiple Contractors

Assuming you do not have a trusted roofer yet, your first act should be to ask as many roofing contractors as you can find to send their quotes and estimates. Getting quotes is easy. What is not easy is getting accurate quotes. Fortunately, you can eliminate this problem by sending the same job specifications to all prospective roofers you desire to hire. This would require a better understanding of the roofing terminologies than you probably know now. Invest some time learning these terminologies and the latest developments in the industry.

Learn More about the Contractor

The research will help you learn everything about any roofing contractor you desire to hire. Learn about the contractor from your friends and family. Ask the locals for more information on the roofer. Ask the roofer for references. Spend time speaking with the roofers. Visit the recent sites where the roofer has worked to gauge the quality of work that he provides. As part of your research, you should check the roofer’s rating with reputable institutions such as Better Business Bureau – that is, if you are in the United States.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width="1/2"][vc_column_text]

Sign an Agreement/Contract

At the end of the roofing project, you may notice that the roofer never kept to his end of the bargain. In such cases, you should have a solution for handling the dispute. Before the roofer begins working on your property, you should ask if he is willing to sign a dispute resolution agreement with you. The agreement states that the two of you would be ready to seek third party arbitration services in case of disputes or disagreements on any aspect of the quality of work done. A good contractor has no problem signing such a watertight agreement with you.

Exercise Caution

Today, the roofing industry is full of all manner of contractors. Some of them are nothing more than con-artists whose interest is your money or other assets that are in your home. Criminals often pose as roofing contractors too. For this reason, you ought to be careful with the person you hire to work on the roof. Look for a fully licensed, bonded and insured contractor. Hiring a contractor who has valid liability insurance as well as worker’s compensation insurance is mandatory. Call the insurance company to ascertain the contractor’s policies are valid. Hire a Local Contractor It pays to hire a local contractor. Local contractors have something that you will not get from other roofers; a good understanding of the local roofing needs. The contractors are experienced at solving the many roofing problems that affect local buildings. In addition to this, they charge less for their expertise. Try hiring a contractor from a different city or country to get a picture of the money involved. Furthermore, it is easy to visit the local contractor’s office to check his equipment and skills prior to hiring them for your roofing project. Lastly, do not limit your selection to pricing. The saying that you get what you pay for is true in the roofing industry. A full time professional who provides roofing services is likely to charge well for his expertise. The solutions he provides will last a long time. What you should avoid is falling into the temptation of hiring storm chasers. Go out of your way to hire a roofer instead of giving permission to one who shows up haphazardly at your doorstep. Do not forget to get everything in writing – and signing contracts.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_video link="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vxfue0bVnik" align="center"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_text_separator][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Cities that we service:

Grand Rapids, Grandville, Lancaster, Red Lion [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]