Archive for the ‘Roofing’ Category

Roofing: Under the Shingles – What’s Under the Asphalt, Metal, Wood, Rubber Or Clay Tiles on a Roof?

Imagine, you’re standing on the sidewalk, looking at an average house. You see the siding, the windows, the front door, and way up above, you see the roof. Does the roof have asphalt shingles? Wood shakes perhaps? Maybe it’s made of metal or rubber tiles? What you see is where the focus goes, but it’s what you don’t see that really matters. There’s more to roofing than meets the eye. So let’s talk about what goes on, under the shingles.

The Roof Deck

We learn to crawl before we walk, so when talking about roofing let’s start with square one, the surface area of your roof which is made of wood. Your wood roof deck is comparable to an automobiles metal body.  It is installed on top of the basic house frame to give a surface area on which to install Shingles.  Without a roof deck installed on your house, there would be nowhere to install your Shingles.  And of course without the shingles, your roof deck would rot away due to exposure to the sun, rain, snow and ice and etc…not a comfortable home at all!

On Newer Houses, sheets of plywood or OSB boards are fastened on top of wooden trusses in your attic to form the roof deck.  Plywood or OSB boards are installed in a staggered formation with small spaces between them to allow wood to expand and contract as the wood heats in the summer and cools in the winter.  Older homes often have lengths of 2″ x 6″ installed instead of plywood or OSB board.  When the time comes for you to replace your Roof System, remember to have your Calgary Roofing Contractor replace any and all damaged wood.

Remember, if your roof deck is rotting or damaged in any way, people walking on your roof could potentially crack or break through the wood, causing further damage to the roof system, such as to the shingles…and to the person who walked on it!  However, most roof decks can withstand a little bit of exposure to water or ice before it needs to be replaced.

Metal: Drip Edge and Rake Edge

Drip edge and Rake edge is the first part of the Roof System to be installed.  It is a long and narrow piece of metal which is installed along each end of your Roof Deck, ie: along the eaves trough and along the gable ends. 

Some area local building codes require the installation of Drip Edge and Rake Edge and other building codes do not. Check with your local city building offices to find out. In Alberta for example, the Building Code does not require the installation of Drip edge or Rake edge.  Therefore many new homes and/or low budget roof systems do not have drip edge installed in order to allow for more affordable roof prices.  We recommend however that Drip edge and Rake edge be installed on every Roof System, no exceptions.

Drip and Rake edge is available in a variety of different colors and sizes and can be custom built for the needs of your roof system.  Installing an appropriate drip edge often saves hundreds and sometimes even thousands of dollars when your roof system needs replaced.

If your Roof System does not currently have drip or rake edge installed, do not panic, you’ll survive well enough.  Just be aware that when your roof needs to be replaced, the Roofing Contractor you may need to replace some of your wood Roof Deck on an as needed basis.

Metal: Chimneys and Skylights

Arguably the most important part of every complete roof system. The metal installed in the valleys, chimneys and skylights take the brunt of water flow on every roof. Poorly installed, a brand new roof system can make a waterfall out of your living room.

Every chimney and skylight needs what is referred to as “a back pan”, which consists of sheet metal folded at around a 90 degree angle (depending on the slope of your roof) and tucks under the shingles and up under the siding, stucco or counter flashing on the chimney or skylight. Every back pan needs a small 2” section of metal sticking out 1” or more from either side of the chimney or skylight to divert water away from the corners. Water should hit the metal back pan and be directed away on either side where it can continue its run into the eaves trough.

Metal: Valleys

In the same way water runs along the valleys between two mountains, water runs along the valleys on your roof peaks. Valleys generally receive the highest concentration of water flowing through them, therefore installing them correctly is extremely important!

As mentioned in the Leak Barrier section, valleys have leak barriers installed underneath them. Even though some Building Codes do not require such a leak barrier to be installed, we recommend installing one always in every valley.

A word of caution: Many roofing contractors install valleys in a style referred to as ‘closed’. A closed valley consists of Shingles woven inside the valley, as opposed to an ‘open’ valley which has sheet metal running from top to bottom. Both the ‘open’ and the ‘closed’ style of installation are acceptable by the most Building Codes and by most manufacturers, however, the ‘open’ style installation has consistently out performed the ‘closed’ style…and costs exactly the same price to install.  Ask your Roofing Contractor to use the ‘open’ style of installation for your roofs valleys, this could save you from having to replace your roof system prematurely and also can avoid headaches in the long run.  Typically, an ‘open’ valley is installed with a 30 gauge sheet metal, 4′ wide, coming in 10′ sheets. This metal can be ordered in any color to match the shingles on your roof system.

Leak Barrier

Think of a leak barrier as a “second layer” of protection for your Roof Deck.  A backup plan, if you will, and also a protection against moisture build up.  Leak barriers are nearly always installed on top of the Drip Edge and Rake Edge metal along eaves trough areas, gable areas and valleys because of the risk these areas pose for leaks, ice build up, shingle deterioration and water back flow. 

If you’ve ever looked at your roof during winter, you’ll notice how ice and snow builds up along the length of your eaves troughs and inside the roof valleys.  As with Rake Edge and Drip Edge, some Building codes require Leak Barriers to be installed and some Building Codes do not. In Alberta, the Building Code requires a leak Barrier to be installed on all eaves trough and valley areas of a Roof Systems because of issues related to such snow and ice build up.  As an optional upgrade, some high end roof systems even have leak barriers installed on top of the entire Roof Deck (as opposed to only along the special areas we just mentioned) where normally a standard Roof Deck Protection would normally have been installed.

Virtually all roofs in Calgary, Alberta have leak barriers installed, and many different types of leak barriers are available in today’s market, each offering a different level of reliability, functionality and warrantee and produced by many different manufacturers.

Choosing an appropriate Leak Barrier and installing it properly is an important step in every Roof System.  Speak with your Roofing Contractor to learn more about leak barriers, how to choose the right one and how to choose a Professional Roofing Contractor to install it.

Roof Deck Protection

Roof Deck Protection is very similar to a Leak Barrier.  The difference is that Roof Deck Protection is installed on the entire Roof Deck area instead of only on “special areas” as we mention in the Leak Barrier section.

Typically, Roof Deck Protection is a step lower in quality than a Leak Barrier.  As with Leak Barriers however, there are many different types of Roof Deck Protection available to choose from ranging from basic felt/tar paper to advanced plastic woven sheets of rip and wrinkle proof material.  Choosing a reliable Roof Deck Protection is an important part of a quality Roof System.

A word of caution; most roofing
companies use
felt paper as Roof Deck Protection.  Although using felt paper is a standard and acceptable practice, some issues can arise if the felt paper becomes wet during or after the installation.  Ever notice how paper tends to curl when it dries after it was wet?  In a similar way, felt paper can curl if water or excess moisture touches it.  For this reason, and because the cost is quite small, we recommend installing a higher quality Roof Deck Protection such as a GAF/ELK Deck Armour.  For a relatively small additional cost, you’ll be rewarded with a much more reliable Roof Deck Protection.

Ask your local trusted Roofing Contractor about which under-layer would be best for your Roof System any why.

Conclusion

So there it is, life beneath the shingles. See how much goes on behind the scenes? Professional roofing contractors know this stuff inside and out and can help immensely in ensuring a roof system is reliable for many years. Product suppliers such as GAF/Elk and IKO can help answer specific questions about products as well.

All the best with your roofing project, and remember, be proactive, make educated decisions.

Roofing Toledo, Windows Toledo, & Siding Toledo Services

How To Avoid A Roofing Disaster

Here are the top guidelines for picking a roofing contractor and avoiding a
DISASTER.

1. Along with the quoted price, ask for references, ask about any current jobs they’re doing and then drive by those jobs.

* There’s a BIG variation in the professionalism among contractors so you want to find that sweet spot between price and quality of work.

2. If the site is an total pigsty; plants trampled, stuff strewn around, etc, you might not want them on your property.

* Your property should look like it did before they showed up, only with a new roof.

3. They should also give a warranty for roof leaks.

* If it rains, and you have a leak they should be there within a reasonable time.

4. Ask for proof of insurance. They must be insured & bonded

5. Ask the contractor how they will protect the landscaping.

* Most will make an agreement that any damage will come out of the final payment.

6. The contract should specify the materials used, a time-line for completion, and how payment will made & scheduled.

7. Make sure the contractor is insured and, if his employees will have access to your house, that they are bonded.

8. Once again, get references from the contractor.

* And check them.

9. Hire a roofing contractor that has a reputation in the community.

* Check with a local builder and ask who they recommend.

10. You can also use someone you know and trust even if they have a small company.

Integrity Roofing & Construction has been serving the Northwest Ohio areas since 2000. We take great pride in our work and offer our
clients 1st class remodeling.

Our goal is to give the best price possible without using inferior products or cutting corners in workmanship just to lower the cost.

Not only do we use the most proven and up to date products in the industry, we also offer some of the best and longest warranties that the market has to offer.

The most important part of our job is your complete satisfaction. We want you to enjoy working with us from the beginning to the end, and therefore, will do everything in our power to make that possible.

We strive to serve our customers with integrity and professionalism.

finding a roofing contractor

 

glascock roofing

Payson AZ

Deciding what type of roof can be almost as hard as finding a good contractor. Here are some helpful steps to help you and your contractor find the right roof system you. First is the ugly one money. You need to know your budget. Here are some categories to help.

 

1 high end  roof like tile, and pricy custom metal. Can range from 10,000 to 20,000 (on an average home)

 

2 mid level low end metal and lifetime shingles. Can range from 6,000 to 10,000 (on an average home)

 

3 economy level 50yr, 40yr, 30yr and 3tab (20yr) range from 6,000 to 1,700

 

The mid to economy are more common residential roofs. Once you have an idea of your budget call a licensed contractor to help you with your needs. They will tell you what you can and should put on your home. I hate to say it but you get what you pay for. So make sure you find a contractor that will tell you in detail what they propose to do. Whether a tear off or a recover. Make sure you know what’s going on to your home before you sign or write any checks. Next what ever you decide to put on you roof know that roofing is a very labor intensive job. It’s messy loud. Make sure that you contractor takes the right prepositions to prevent damage to your landscape home. And that they do good final cleanup an inspection. I hope this will help you in your search for a roofing contractor. www.glasscockroofing.com 

Benefits of Metal Roofing Solutions

Metal roofing is no longer a rich man’s virtue. The efficient roofing type is now easily available to residential and commercial sectors at affordable rates. One can avail the benefits of this type at reduced prices with no compromise on their quality and look.

Today, people are moving towards the installation of metal roofs in comparison to other systems. They hire the services of a professional roofing contractor for installing it. It is ideal for low pitched roofs and is better than most systems for the following reasons:

Cost-effective

It is no longer a costly affair and can be easily installed well under the budget. It is available to both the commercial clients as well as budget projects in the residential sector.

Resistant to Extreme Weather Conditions

It is resistant to extreme weather conditions. It can withstand extreme heat, cold and rainfall. It has corrosion-resistant properties and hence, is more durable than other forms.

Light in Weight

It is light in weight and hence can be installed easily on high roofs and even for low pitched houses. Its light weight again contributes to its high strength and durability.

Durable

This type is one of the most durable forms of roofs installed for houses and other properties. If chosen wisely, these can be environment-friendly as well and provide immaculate performance.

Attractive Look

The metallic luster of metal roofs gives an attractive look to the entire system. Metals impart shine and are considered as one of the attractive forms.

Variety

One can choose from a wide range of roofing types available in this form. It is available in different metallic forms including Zinc, Copper, Stainless Steel etc.

 

 

 

Red Roof Inn Pigeon Forge, the perfect location to lodge

Located near Pigeon Forge attractions, the Red Roof Inn Pigeon Forge is about three miles from Dolly wood and 1.95 miles from the Dixie Stampede Dinner. The Inn is convenient to theaters, trolleys, shopping and restaurants. additionally, the location offers an indoor heated pool along with a hot tub that is accessible 24 hours year round. Other amenities include free wireless Internet access, continental breakfast and much more.
Experience the difference at Red Roof Inn
At the Red Roof Inn, you will find rooms with comfortable beds at budget conscious prices. The devoted staff will make your experience at Red Roof a memorable one. While staying here you will notice freshly renovated and cozy rooms plus luxuries such as J.D. Power award wining beds, free cable and good coffee.
The exceptional comfy king room
The room is fit for royalty with a new king size bed. Outfitted with comforters, plush pillows, carpeting, furniture, an easy chair, a huge TV and WiFi, this room is the best the Red Roof Inn offers. The all inclusive king room is designed for the business traveler and offers many amenities including:
•Long distance and local phone calls •Fast Internet access •L shaped desk and ergonomic chair •Speaker phone •Micro fridge and microwave The senior discount If you are 50 years of age or more, you will be able to receive discounts on the standard rates. The Red Roof Inn Pigeon Forge aims to offer the utmost respect to seniors. Lodging at inexpensive rates does not mean that you need to compromise on amenities, in fact all services, including free cable, comfy beds, complimentary breakfast and various others will be provided. Make sure to request your senior discount during check in.
Additional discounts for AAA members allow guests to take as much as ten percent off the already reduced rates at the Red Roof Inn.
Red roof honors America’s veterans Red Roof Inn pigeon forge is proud to honor individuals serving our nation. With the intention of thanking the U.S. Military veterans along with Active Duty Military, National Reserve and guard plus their families, Red Roof Inn Pigeon Forge is proud to provide Veterans Advantage, a discount of 15 percent on lodging. All that is required is enrollment in the Veterans Advantage program.
Members enrolled in Veterans Advantage simply show their active Advantage card while they staying at the hotel to receive special discounts.
Comfortable beds, affordable prices, devoted staff, generous amenities, great facilities, extraordinary coffee, convenient distance to attractions, and friendly customer service makes Red Roof Inn Pigeon Forge the perfect location for your stay. ;

Tips to Consider while Hiring a Norfolk Roofing Services Company

Tips to Consider while Hiring a Norfolk Roofing Services Company

 

Norfolk is one of those places in England with some exquisite homes. When it comes to looking after your home the most important part has to be the roof. Norfolk roofing companies are equipped with modern techniques when it comes to roofing. But the appearance of the roof may be destroyed by several factors that are natural or caused by neglect.

 

Reasons that cause damage to the roof

 

The most important thing one must determine while hiring a Norfolk roofing contractor is to find out if they are bonded, certified and licensed. The outcome of a natural calamity like a storm or cyclone calls for the services of a roofing company. Also shingle deterioration could be caused by the harmful ultra violet rays. Temperature extremes can result in expansion and contraction of shingles and they could also be blown off by strong wind. Accumulation of rain stress also weakens the roof.

 

Tips to Consider when hiring roofing contractors

 

Some do shoddy work, some are not insured and some work just to swindle money from clients. One must ensure that the Norfolk roofing contractor who is hired is knowledgeable about the techniques of construction, and all regulatory and safety requirements. A contractor who has local references is a better option. It is recommended to visit the houses where he has worked to determine the quality of work done. There are certain tips one may consider before hiring a contractor and these include the following:

 

(1)  Ensuring that the Norfolk roofing contractor has experience in the type of roofing material that is selected. References of similar job can be asked for.

 

(2)  All damages must be reported to the insurance company at the earliest and a contractor who agrees to work with the insurance company and adjuster must be hired.

 

(3)  Receiving estimates from several roofing contractors and conducting a comparison not only on the price but also on other details is necessary. Any professional roofing contractor generally performs a thorough inspection of the roof and documents his findings. Warranties must also be compared. The warranty is generally for one year.

 

(4)  A contract must be given in writing and a guarantee must be obtained for the roofer’s labor as well as manufacturer’s material.

 

(5)  The contract must be reviewed thoroughly before signing. The attorney should also review the terms of the contract. The contract must clearly specify start date and completion date, materials to be used, labor and material costs, site cleanup and work hours and payment schedule.

 

(6)  It is also important not to make the entire payment upfront. This ensures that there is no room given for the contractor to take undue advantage by way of excess time or any other factor.

 

The above mentioned are some of the general tips one must ensure before hiring a Norfolk roofing contractor. These points and a few more may be in need of customization as per the circumstances involved.