Installation Tips

When it is time to take on a large remodeling project, you have to take into account if you have to hire a pro or not. You may want to try to save money by doing the work by yourself. Only attempt this if you know you have sufficient time and skills. Think you have the time and know how to install your own metal roofing? This is your first consideration.

Start by doing some research. Find out about the differences in material and figure out what will work best in your situation. Living in a harsh environment can limit your choices. Be sure to visit your local dealer or contractor for price comparisons. You may be surprised to discover that a professional contractor doesn't cost as much as you believe. Your project may even get done in half the time.

Choose what look you want your brand new metal roof to have. Nearly any traditional roofing style can be simulated with metal roofing. Old, tattered tin roofs are a thing of the past. New metal roofs are durable, damage-resistant, and look wonderful on your home.

When researching how to install your roofing, do the bulk of your research online. Information is available on every topic from A to Z. You can even consult contractor forums to ask any questions you may have. Also, visit your local home improvement store for tips. You can also price out the tools you will need.

If you are planning on learning how to install your metal roof it is important to understand there are lots of resources available. Using a professional or doing it by yourself will depend on what you find. Whichever way you go, you'll have a lot of options...

Why Roof Replacement is a Major Home Improvement Project

Roof replacement is a noisy, dirty and very laborious kind of job. The people living in the house have to be prepared to undergo some amount of discomfort if they intend to stay within the house while the repair is being done. Roofing cement is the equivalent of duct tape for roofs. It will repair most leaks, cracked or torn shingles, patch flashing around vent pipes and chimneys. Obviously this is not a good option for the long term and you must take action and plan for the future as soon as possible to avoid interior damage.

Roofing material replacement is costly and quality installation is needed for the roof to last. When inquiring with roofing companies we recommended that you chose a company that will be here for the long run, just in case. Roof repair companies will most likely advise you to replace your roof and pay them to do so. It is wise to investigate alternative sources of information, specifically unbiased sources which are not seeking to sell anything. Roofing systems must also achieve a balance of durability, cost, weight, appearance, manufacturability and ease of installation when being considered for use. Regrettably, previous products have not made use of maturing technologies and advanced material applications now available from the Aerospace field.

Wind direction plays an important role, as well as roof pitch. A direct impact of hail on a shingle is more damaging than that of a glancing blow. Wind blow-off coverage ranges from winds of 60mph to 110 mph. Labor costs for replacing damaged shingles is for three to 10 years. Also, Windows and Doors are components that may need light scraping and painting to appear new and operational.

Roofs with shingling set directly on solid sheathing and where there is insulation packed tightly between the wooden rafters without adequate ventilation run the risk of condensation-related moisture damage to wooden roofing components. This is particularly true for air-conditioned structures. Roofs are subject to extremes of temperature, receiving the full exposure of the sun as well as suffering from the extremes of cold. No other part of the average home sees a wider cycle of temperatures.

Roof replacement is rarely a choice someone makes because they prefer a different color or some other cosmetic change. For most of the world, roof replacement is expensive and an investment that is made when there is no other choice. Roof replacement is a major home improvement project which can be costly. Homeowners want to ensure they use only the best roofing professionals, equipment and materials for their new roof. If a Roof replacement is then required make sure you select a color that you can live with for many years to come.

Roof framing should be designed at 20 pounds per SF, so there is no danger of collapse, however, snow and wind loads may cause deflection. Heavy weight shingles can be 50% heavier than standard or 20-year shingles.

As always just be sure to do your homework when trying to find the best contractor for the job. The lowest price is not always the best way to go and if you choose to make your final decision on just that fact, be prepared to be disappointed most of the time.

What is Roof Flashing?

The flashing on your roof is essentially another shingle but because they are usually found at intersection component parts of your roof where roofs join they are prone to damage and roof leaks caused by bad flashing are a common problem with many roofs. Some of these roof leaks are because the flashing was installed incorrectly while it is quite feasible that the flashing on your roof has been battered and bruised by the elements continually beating, pounding and shining on them. Proper maintenance and early repair are both vital to preventing roof leaks caused by bad flashing.

Flashing installation.

Flashing works in the same way as your shingles do and should overlap the first shingle below. This is so that the water can run down the outside of your roof and not drip down the inside. When flashing becomes damaged or removed you face a very real risk of your roof leaking.

Inspecting your flashing.

Most roof leaks caused by bad flashing can be identified before they occur or at the very least early in their damaging lives. If you have a roof leak you may want to consider checking the flashing yourself or employing a professional roofing contractor to look it over properly. The first step is to look for areas of the flashing that have pulled away from the roof. This will cause cracks in the roof; cracks that water can easily get through and cause damage to your home inside.

Checking your own roof flashing.

If the roofing cement has become damaged or eroded it is vital that you replace it because this will likely be the cause for your flashing coming away from your roof and eventually causing a leak in your roof. If any of the flashing itself is damaged you should also replace this; flashing is made from a number of different materials ranging from sheet metals to rubber. One of the most popular choices at present is aluminum because it is durable, malleable and affordable. If you are in any doubt as to how to apply the roofing cement and flashing yourself then you should pay someone to do this for you because poorly applied it will easily lead to roof leaks caused by bad flashing.

The types of roof flashing.

There are two types of flashing. If you have open valley flashing, the type you can clearly see when looking at the valley where roofs meet, then you can usually check for any damage very easily but if you have closed valley flashing it is virtually impossible to check the condition of it for yourself. Regardless of the type of flashing you have on your roof and whether you believe you can check it yourself or not you should consider using a professional roofing contractor to look at it, and this way you can be absolutely certain whether or not you are likely to suffer from roof leaks caused by bad flashing.

Simple Flat Roof Leak

A flat roof is more prone to leaks due to the fact that the roof has no pitch for snow and other debris to slide off, so it remains on the roof until we remove it. This can cause an array of damage, including snow and ice damage, holes from debris, heavy weight causing structure damage and more. Flat roofs should be inspected several times each year in order to detect any damage or possible problems even before they arise.

Roof Safety.

When doing any work, or inspections on the roof, use a strong ladder that is properly secured. Avoid walking on the roof, which can be very dangerous. This is especially true if it is raining or if the roof is already wet from a previous storm. Use binoculars to help spot the leak if you need them.

Detecting A Simple Flat Roof Leak.

Because of their design, flat roofs are generally difficult to inspect when it comes to leaks. But, there are several distinct signs to look for, which can help you to locate the problem as quickly as possible. When searching for a leak, check the area around the flashing, the chimney or other vents. When checking the flashing, look for cracks and check overlaps. Also be on the lookout for any exposed nail heads or other signs of damage. Watch for dark spots or water puddles on the roof, which may indicate sagging and water weight. If you can locate the seams of your roofing material, check for holes or cracks.

Repairing A Simple Flat Roof Leak.

If you find an exposed nail head, that's easily fixed with a hammer. Drive the nail into the roof's structure, but not too far or it may become overdrawn. You want the nail head to be even with the top of the roof. If you find a problem that can be repaired with roofing cement, use it. Even if this is just a temporary solution to fixing the leak, it will buy you some time until you can hire a professional roofing contractor.

When To Seek A Professional.

Minor repairs may be handled by the homeowner in some cases. Normally, however, it is recommended that you call a professional roofing contractor even if it's just a simple flat roof leak. If you do not know exactly what to look for, or where to find it, further damage could be incurred during repeated attempts to locate the leak. A professional roofing contractor is skilled in the art of repair and will be able to fix your roof properly.

Roofing Supplies - What Supplies Are Needed For a Roof?

The term "roofing supplies" covers a wide range of materials and items needed for roof construction and maintenance. This includes not only shingles but molding, lumber, pipes and vents, roofing cements, ladders and all the necessary tools, even roofing nails.

Starting at the top, let's consider the roofing material. This is considered the roof proper and includes wood shingles, ceramic tiles, asbestos shingles, metal roofing sheets and tiles, rubber roofing sheets and shingles, and more. Location is a prime concern when selecting material, so that the roof will stand up to the local elements and issues that impact it.

Lumber is used in a roof primarily as the support structure or frame. This generally consists of a triangular truss and a lattice of beams. The frame serves as the base which is laid over the top. Lumber is used for other elements including the cornice, part of the frame that hangs over the wall, the fascia, or underside of the cornice, the eave, beam ends of the wood frame that allow water to drip away from the roof, and the soffit, or underside of the eave.

Pipes and vents protrude from the roof. They help the house breathe, and are also the escape routes for smoke from a fireplace or cooking hood, as well as for hot air from the attic. The bottoms of pipes and vents are commonly sealed with a boot, or metal strip, including a lead based or plastic sealant. They have one way shields sealed with rubber so that the air or smoke can escape, but water doesn't flow into the pipe or vent.

Roofing tools include the ladder to climb up to the roof, as well as others used for maintenance, installation and removal. These include simple items such as a broom and bucket to hold waste shingles, a slater's hammer complete with a hammer as well as an ax and blade, a slate cutter to cut through shingles, seaming pliers to grasp shingles, and a hip runner to install the ridge cap, the portion of the roof on top of seams.

When it comes to roofing nails, they must be long enough to extend through the shingles and go further to about 3/8 inch below the underside of the shingle. Anything that interferes with the nails biting into the wood might cause the nail to spring out of the shingle, and eventually the loss of shingles. This includes shingles with ridges, some under shingle materials, and of course nails that are too short. A good roofer can drive a roofing nail with one solid hit. A homeowner doing it themselves will find that they can drive the nails with one hit after only a few minutes.

Roofing supplies aren't as simple as they first seem. But with a little planning, you'll have everything needed for a quality roof.

How to Find Reputable Contractors For Roofing and Siding

The roof and siding of your home does not just protect you from the weather outside, they have a huge impact on the feel and look of your home. This is why choosing a company to put on your new roof in Staten Island and one of the many house siding companies in Queens is so important.

The first thing to consider is finding a contractor that will offer you fair and impartial advice about the different roofing and siding options available to you. Remember you need to be able to rely on them to provide you with information that will help you make the right choice for you as far as looks, durability and weather resistance goes. Finding contractors who will treat you fairly is key.

Secondly, you will want to locate several contractors with excellent reputations for fair and accurate estimates. Try and keep in mind that doing these repairs yourself would cost you a lot of money in materials, so a reasonable estimate may be very expensive. A reputable company to put on new roof in Staten Island as well as a house siding company in Queens will help you make the correct choices to update the feel and look of your home.

Once you find a contractor you are comfortable with, there are several things that you should expect. The first is insurance. A reputable contractor will have insurance that will protect you in case one of their employee's are injured. You should also expect your contractor to provide you with an agreed upon deadline. Finally, your contractor should provide you with a guarantee. The work and materials should be guaranteed for at least a short period of time.

These guarantees vary by contractor, so be sure to ask about this. Take these things into considerations when you make a decision to update the feel and look of your home. Use one of the many reputable house siding companies in Queens as well as a qualified contractor to put on a new roof in Staten Island and you cannot go wrong, so make sure to take the time when picking contractors.

Why it is Important to Fix Roof Leaks As Soon As They Appear

The roof over our heads is what makes our house a home through providing complete functionality and utmost comfort for you and the whole family to lavish in. Whether you are living in Brooklyn, Staten Island, Manhattan, Long Island, Queens, or wherever in New York your roof will inevitably be exposed to a good amount of everyday sunshine and beaten time and again by harsh natural elements. Though overused, the cliché 'An ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure' still does not stick very well even if it has proven to be true many times. And this goes well with your roof, as keeping it in good condition and repairing leaks as soon as they are detected not only saves the roof itself from larger damages but the rest of your home as well.

The tough nature of your roofing system's purpose makes it more prone to damages that may lead to leaks. When not attended to immediately, this may cause a larger problem requiring more complex, expensive and time consuming repair. The issues that you might be faced with if you leave your leaking roof be range from growth of mold and mildew, to damage in your house's foundation.

Dealing with roof leaks can be tricky at times as not all leaks are that obvious. Other than drips during rains, watermarks and dark spots in the ceiling; there really are not much signs to point you to the problem unless you actually evaluate your roof. This makes it crucial for homeowners to stick to a regular roof checkup, and while at it look for indications of damage.

• Your shingles could tell the story. Any blisters, curls, cracks in the shingles would indicate that the roofing material has reached its working lifespan and may need replacement. Discolored patches, loose or exposed nails and missing shingles should also raise the red flag.

• Areas such as skylights, intersection of roof planes, vents, and around chimneys are prone to moisture. Feel the insulation and if you notice any wet portions or growth of molds, water may already be seeping through these areas.

• A damaged roof flashing could also be the cause of the leak. Roof flashings are found where the roof meets the wall so be sure to check ridges, plumbing vents, chimneys, skylights and eaves.

When homeowners notice a leak, they often miscalculate the level of difficulty that tracing the source poses. Though water may be trickling from a certain place, it does not mean that the source of the leak is in that same area. So if you think you are not up to the job, you might just as well look for a qualified local roofing contractor to do the job for you expertly and skillfully.

Hiring a roofing contractor could make a good deal of difference in terms of the quality of repair, proper and right steps to take, and the time and back-breaking effort you'd save yourself from to be able to finish up the task. As your roof is what keeps everything in your New York home in its full productivity, beauty and comfort; the costs to maintain one of your greatest investments would be well worth it.

Creating a Unique Home - Pitched Roofs and Cedar Siding

Today, many people are looking for ways to create a unique home. While there are several ways to do this, one of the best ways is by using a steeply pitched roof like the pitched roofs of Nassau County and cedar siding from long island. This two unusual design elements work well together to create a one of a kind look that will make your home stand out in your neighborhood. Because cedar siding can be stained in a multitude of colors and the pitched roof can be covered with various roofing materials, the different ways to create this look are almost endless.

The first design element of used to create a unique home in this case is the pitched roofs of Nassau County. These are very steeply pitched roofs. Practically, pitched roofs where designed for climates where rain or snow fall is significant throughout the year; however, the design can be used in the Greater New York Area for strictly aesthetic reasons. The angle or 'pitch' of the roof can vary, so you will want to consult a certified roofer or architect to decide the best look for your home. Once you have decided the look of your pitched roof, you can decide on the roofing material you want. Make sure that the material will complement the cedar siding from Long Island that you will be using. Options for roofing materials include tile, slate, wood, traditional roofing tiles and more.

The next design element that you will use to create a unique home is cedar siding. This wood is a popular choice for siding because of its anti-fungal properties as well as its ability to insulate and muffle sounds. Another great property about cedar siding is the fact that it can be left un-treated or stained depending on your personal tastes. By coloring the cedar siding, you can make sure that it compliments the roof you have chosen based on the popular pitched roofs of Nassau County. The various types of cedar siding from long island those are available for your home will allow you to pick the perfect siding for your unique look.

Slate and Wood Siding - An Elegant and Historical Combination

Some of the most elegant homes in the Greater New York area have a slate roof from Yonkers as well as beautiful wood siding from Nassau County. These two architectural elements are combined to create a historical and elegant look to many homes. You too can have this special and unique look by using slate and wood on the exterior of your home.

Slate roofing tiles are made of the slate stone and create a beautiful and durable roof for any home. Historically, slate has always been a popular choice among middle and upper class citizens and some very renowned homes in the country are embellished with this type of roofing material. A journey through the country will reveal many historical homes that have slate roofs as well. Choose a slate roof from Yonkers is ideal because they blend so well with the wood siding from Nassau County. This is because slate comes in a large variety of colors that allows for great variety in personal choice. Colors range from the famous 'slate gray' to beautiful shades of blue and green. Combining the slate with the natural look of wood siding is an excellent way to give your home a historical and elegant look.

To complete the look, you must pick an appropriate type of wood siding. There are many different kinds of wood siding available. Some of these require staining and sealing, while others can be kept simple and natural looking. Deciding which goes best with the slate roof from Yonkers you have chosen is up to you. Fir, pine, redwood, cedar and other types of wood are used to create wood siding. These different options vary in price, so it is important to pick a wood that fits into your budget. Keep in mind the color of your slate roof while picking your siding. Wood siding from Nassau County can be a beautiful addition to any home. By drawing on the past, you can create a historical and elegant look and feel for your home through the use of slate and wood siding. These two design elements are rich looking and will be appreciated for years to come.

Protecting Your Home With Stucco

Many of the older homes in the Greater New York are in need of repair. This is especially true of some the gorgeous older masonry homes. In many cases, these homes have been seriously neglected throughout their life. Damaged or crumbling masonry can be repaired using quality stucco from Nassau County. Another excellent way to protect your home is through the use of roofing shingles from the Bronx.

When masonry becomes damaged, usually by water, it is often very expensive to replace it - prohibitively expensive, so an alternative method of repair is often required. One of the best methods you can use is cement stucco. Stucco is actually a mixture of sand and cement that is applied as a siding material. It can be used to prolong the longevity of a masonry home by filling and patching damaged portions of the masonry. Some of the best stucco available for repairs to damaged or crumbling masonry is the quality stucco from Nassau County. Once the masonry has been repaired, it is a good idea to check the roof and see if it needs to be repaired using some of the excellent roofing shingles from the Bronx that is available.

Masonry can be repaired using stucco where the bricks are 'spalling.' Spalling occurs when masonry begins too chip or erode away. The stucco will strengthen the masonry and protect it from further water damage. Another way to use stucco to repair worn masonry is old fireplaces. Using stucco to repair these damaged brink or joints can extend the life of your fireplace. Completing the repairs to the masonry walls and fireplaces of your home is just the first step. It is also important to protect the walls from further damage. One way to do this is by repairing and extended the roof line. Roofing shingles from the Bronx can be used to do this. By adding gutters, you can protect your previously damaged or crumbling masonry from further problems. Make sure to maintain and protect your home. Damage to the siding or roofing can be expensive to fix, so shore up and crumbling masonry walls by using quality stucco from Nassau County.

Windstorm Damages Thousands of Roofs in Walla Walla Valley

January 2008 made history, with wind gusts measuring up to 100 mph, leaving a wake of destruction that resulted in millions of dollars in damage to thousands of homes and businesses throughout Washington states Walla Walla valley.

After the storm swept through and the worst was over, Walla Walla was declared in "a state of emergency" by the governors office as thousands of trees lay across the roads, roofs, cars and power lines. Entire sides of buildings had been swept away, roofs were dismantled, business signs gone forever and thousands of commercial businesses and homes were without power for days on end.

As the power was restored and the damage was being calculated, the cleanup had to begin. And it was hard to tell where to start. Contractors were bombarded with thousands of calls from general construction, yard cleanup, siding repair and roofing. Thousands of roofs, from new to old, had to either be replaced or repaired. It looked as if every roof in the Walla Walla Valley had damage. From several shingles missing to entire roofs dismantled - it was a sight to see. Thousands of people tied-up every roofer in the valley for at least seven months or more, making it near impossible to get an appointment if you had planned for a midsummer re-shingle. Every neighborhood had roofing crews working around the clock to repair or replace existing roof structures as fast a possible to help prevent further damage from occurring due to water leakage.

Now, almost nine months later, the mayhem has died down and the roofing contractors and other construction crews have gone back to their normal work schedules. And with winter now almost upon us once again, it may be just a matter of time before another storm hits and the process starts again.

But to fare better if there is another storm, it is wise to take precautionary measures to at least reduce the damages and associated cost of what occurred in 2008. Below are some suggestions for homeowners that have shingle roof systems so they can try and reduce the amount of damage if another storm occurs.

1) Make sure the roof is heat sealed well so that no shingle edges are loose.
2) A tree barrier helps stop the wind.
3) Keep tree limbs off the roof as they will drag and tear off the shingles.
4) Use good quality shingles.
5) Use a good company that you know is credible and stands behind their work.
6) Install the roof at a time when it can cure properly, usually during the summer so that the shingles cement together in the heat.

Prevention is important, so make sure you home or business is storm-proofed and ready.

The Advantages of Rubber Slate Roofs and Brick Veneers

Slate roofs and brick fronts can be an attractive look for any home. Unfortunately, slate and brick is often expensive, making using them impractical in many cases. There is an excellent alternative, imitation slate roof and brick veneers. Rubber slate roofs from Queens are made from mostly recycled products and brick veneer from Brooklyn are imitation building products easily available for purchase in the New York area.

There are several advantages to using these alternative products. First, they are easy to clean and to maintain. Any homeowner can easily take care of these themselves. Conversely, real slate and brick must be professionally cleaned. This maintenance can be very costly. Second, because these products are made from recycled materials, they are environmentally friendly, making them ideal for anyone interested in reducing their carbon footprint. Updating the look of your home with easy to maintain and environmental friendly products is easy with the use of rubber slate roofs from Queens and brick veneer from Brooklyn.

Perhaps the best thing about these imitation building products is just how cost effective they are. Not only do the products cost less money to purchase, in most cases they are easy to install. A competent homeowner, with just a little bit of 'do it yourself' know how will be able to install these products themselves. Both imitation slate roofs and imitation brick siding can be installed in a short amount of time with a minimum amount of tools. Combine all of these facts and what you get is a very cost effective project that will update the look of your home and increase its value.

Once you make a decision to use renew the look of your home, there simply is no other choice than rubber slate roofs from Queens and brick veneer from Brooklyn. These quality imitation building products will allow you to add value to your home by spending as little money as possible. Easy to install, clean and maintain, both of these products will not only modernize the look of you home, they will be an excellent selling point if and when you decide to sell the home.

Adding Value to Your New Home With Brick Veneer and Rubber Slate Roofs

When looking for a new home to purchase, you may want to find one with a rubber slate roof from Queens or brick veneer from Brooklyn. These are unique design elements that add value to the home. Locally made and produced, these products are excellent additions to any home. If you cannot purchase a home that already has these elements, you may want to consider adding them once you purchase the house.

Rubber slate roofs are an inexpensive way to add the look and feel of slate to a home. Produced from recycled products, they are environmentally friendly. Because they are constructed from rubber, they are easy to maintain and exceptionally durable. Inexpensive, beautiful to look at and easy to maintain makes a rubber slate roof from Queens a great addition when considering a new home to purchase.

Brick veneer from Brooklyn is another great addition to a new home. Brick homes are often very expensive because bricks are so dear, buying a house with imitation brick or adding it to a house you purchase is a great way to get the look of brick without spending the additional money. Another cost saving advantage of these products is ease of repair. Real bricks can be costly to replace or repair in the event they are damaged. This is not the case with imitation bricks. They are easy to install and make any house look elegant and expensive.

When you are looking for a new home to purchase, it is all about value. At the end of the day, some of the most expensive options, like slate and brick, just are not in everyone's budget. An excellent alternative to this problem is finding a home that uses imitation brick and slate to achieve the expensive look of real brick and slate. Rubber slate roof from Queens and brick veneer from Brooklyn make doing this easy and inexpensive. If you cannot find a home with these, consider adding these design elements to your new home. You will not regret the expense as they will both add value to your home and at the end of the day that is what is important.

Increase Energy Efficiency With Vinyl Siding and Updating Roofing Replacement

Energy efficiency is becoming the new buzzword in homes as the global energy crisis drives energy prices through the roof. It doesn't matter whether you're trying to sell your home or just trying to afford living in it, taking measures to improve your house's energy efficiency is an investment worth investigation.

Of course, purchasing and installing energy efficient windows and appliances is the first step towards reducing those energy bills. Air conditioners and heaters actively use up electricity, and if they are not functioning well or up to modern standards, they could be costing you a fortune. Windows, of course, allow heat both in and out in the exact direction you don't want, so look into insulating them or getting energy efficient replacements. If you don't already know one, seeking out a good home improvement contractor to establish a long-term relationship is a good idea. First, you never know when you'll need them, and second they can give you good ideas for increasing energy efficiency you may not have thought of.

Once you've done these, however, it may be time to look at the broader areas of your home. The walls and roof are the biggest single areas on your house's exterior and as such are your biggest area of energy loss. They may not pour energy out of your house like windows can, but over time the greater surface area does add up. In addition, heat can rise right out through your roof in winter if you have inadequate roofing materials and insulation.

Vinyl siding does not offer much energy efficiency in and of itself. Rather, it offers a structure that extremely efficient insulation can be applied to. That structure combined with extremely good insulation is where you get true energy efficiency, not from vinyl siding by itself.

Get a professional apprasial on the energy efficiency of your current roof. If your current roofing material is old or if it was installed poorly, you could be losing a lot of heat through it. Metal is widely regarded as the most energy efficient roofing material, but proper installation and insulation is far more important than the exact roofing material you use. This is why it's so important to get a good roofing contractor who is experienced with the material you want on your roof.

While it may not be worth it to you to have a roofing replacement or vinyl siding installation done just for the energy efficiency, if you're having to replace it anyway you may as well go for energy efficiency. No matter what, you may want your good home improvement contractor to come out and take a look to inform you of what exactly is going on in your home and with your energy bill.

Make Sure The Roofer Is Prepared

The best way to ensure that your roofer is prepared to handle your project is to hire a roofing contractor with experience. You should always ask for references from previous customers and then call those customers to hear their experiences first hand. You should ask the references questions regarding how long it took until the project was completed, whether or not they have had any serious problems since using the roofer, and if the written estimate was a true description of the final cost of the project. One of the best questions to ask is whether or not the customer feels that the roofing company or roofer could be described as trustworthy. By taking the time to contact the roofer's references, you can make certain that you are contracting with a professional roofer that is prepared and performs quality work.

You should always double check the written estimate for detailed explanations regarding the project and ask any questions that you may have before you agree to contract with the roofer. The best way to ensure that the roofer is prepared for your project is to take a close look at the estimate and make certain that you feel comfortable with the work, the price of materials, and that the roofer is purchasing enough materials to complete the project in a timely manner.

To make sure that the roofer is prepared, you should ask for verification of needed building permits, insurance, workman's compensation insurance for any subcontractors or employees, and look for a contractor that is bonded. If a roofer fails to show you any of these items, there is a very good chance that the roofing company is not adequately prepared for your job, and if any accidents were to occur, you could be held liable. You should understand that some roofers may carry certain insurance for their workers, but if it is not specifically general liability insurance or workman's compensation insurance, you will be held responsible for any injuries. Be sure to see all proof of insurance before entering a contract with the roofing company.

Picking Roofing and Siding For Your New Home

When building a new home, making appropriate choices for siding and roofing is one of the most important decisions you can make. There are several excellent choices for wood siding in Westchester as well as complimentary roofing from the Bronx. Picking the style and type of siding that fits your personal style and that is appropriate for the area you live in is important.

A good building contractor will be able to help you determine which type of siding to use when building a new home. There are several popular choices available. Pine is perhaps the most popular choice and the most traditional. It is also the least expensive. Spruce is a popular choice on the east coast especially, but it is important to seal this wood. Fir is another popular choice for wood siding in Westchester. It is another inexpensive choice for wood siding. Redwood is an interesting choice, and a fun one to pick matching roofing from the Bronx for. The texture and color of the wood is legendary.

Your contractor will also review your choices for roofing materials. The choices here are nearly endless when you take into consideration the different styles and colors available. Some of the choices are shingles, slate and traditional tiles. These come in many different colors from red to black and nearly every color in-between. Work carefully with your contractor to pick the best combination for your home.

Make sure to pick your contractor for this portion of building your new home. It is important that you work with someone who is familiar with wood siding. The siding itself must be prepared correctly and the different types of wood all require slightly different methods for coloring or staining it. Make sure to find a contractor who can work with you to ensure your finished product is what you want. The choices for wood siding in Westchester are many and varied and picking complimentary roofing from the Bronx can be a fun, if difficult choice for any homeowner to make. These choices can make all the difference in the final appearance of your new home.

White is the New Green in Metal Roofing

If you haven't noticed, start looking up, because these energy efficient wonders are fast becoming the "Prius" of metal roofing.

It started in the fall of 2007. It was almost like someone had flipped a switch. The orders for white metal roofing started to increase disproportionately. We had sold a few white roofs over the years, but the sudden interest caught us by surprise.

White is definitely the most energy saving of the roof colors. The PVDF resin finish commonly known as a High R kynar/hylar is the finish of choice on high quality lifetime aluminum roofing. The roofs being manufactured in this finish are all energy star rated. They are highly reflective and will keep a house substantially cooler in the summer, with some reports of up to 30 percent cooler. If one is using air conditioning, that equates to a significant savings. If one is not using air conditioning, it means a much more comfortable home in these hot, sultry, dog days of summer.

Another reason so many folks are interested in aluminum roofing is its high post-consumer recycled content. In some cases, as much as 95 percent of the product could be made of post-consumer recycled aluminum. This is not the case with all manufacturers. Be sure to ask if the roof you are considering is made from this type of material.

With white roof sales approaching a 1000 percent increase over the last year, maybe they are becoming the new "Prius" of the green movement. With energy prices on the rise globally, maybe these folks that put metal roofs on their homes now, especially white metal roofs, will all look like geniuses over the next decade as energy costs soar.

What's the cost of a metal roof? Contact us and we'll be happy to provide you with a free estimate We are part of a worldwide dealer network.

Mike Gonet is a Sr. Partner with Classic Metal Roofs, LLC, located in Massachusetts and serving all of Southern New England. For information, call toll free 866-660-6668. Classic Metal Roofs, LLC, is the exclusive dealer in Southern New England for Classic Metal Roofing Systems, Inc. of Ohio. Let our certified installation crews install a new metal roof on your home. Our installers are employees of Classic Metal Roofs, LLC. We are licensed and insured in the states we work.

http://www.classicmetalroofs.com

How To Replace A Damaged Asphalt Roof Shingle

Scenario:

My roof has asphalt shingles that are damaged. Some of them are broken and curled. What's the easiest way to replace damaged asphalt roof shingles?

Solution:

The next time you take a look at you house you should take time to see if there are any torn, broken or buckled asphalt shingles on your roof. It may well be time to replace some shingles. Replacing asphalt shingles is a job most do it yourself individuals can do, but if you're unsure or if you're not comfortable with heights you might want to consider hiring a roofing contractor.

Before you get started make sure the weather is going to be warm for a couple of days with no rain in the forecast.

You're going to need:

Hammer

Pry Bar

Ladder

Caulk Gun

Roofing Tar

Roofing Nails (1 1/4")

Asphalt Shingles

First you're going to have to get rid of the old asphalt shingles before you can replace the shingles. You'll need a flat pry bar to lift up the shingle. Start by loosening the shingle tab above the damaged shingle. Next place it under the damaged shingle tab to raise it and then pry the nails out. If you can't remove it completely use a claw hammer to finish the job. Continue with this process until all of the damaged shingles that need replaced are removed.

Now it's time to replace the asphalt shingle. Place the new shingle exactly how it was removed. Nail it in place with 1 1/4" roofing nails. You're going to have to reseal the new shingle by using asphalt roofing tar to coat the nail heads. Don't forget to cement each tab with about a 1 inch diameter dab of the tar. Continue on with the same procedure for the other damaged asphalt shingles that need replaced.

Don't forget safety:

Don't be leaning over the edge of the roof. Use your ladder for replacing old shingles on the edge of the roof.

Make sure your ladder is set up on a flat surface and that it won't move or slide.

If your roof has a steep pitch you are going to need roof jacks that are available at your local rental store. These are usually made of metal and are basically brackets that are nailed into the rafters or the sheathing. Then you place boards across the brackets to obtain a work platform. You may need to set up several roof jacks depending on how many damaged shingles you plan on replacing.

Don't try to replace damaged shingles in the rain or if your roof is wet as it can get pretty slippery up there.

Good luck with your project and remember - safety first!

Roofing Repairs Re-Pointing And Replacement Of Ridge Tiles

Replacing broken or missing ridge tiles is something that should only be attempted by an expert roofing contractor. It's a difficult job that requires a multitude of skills and a lot of expensive equipment, not things that your average homeowner usually possess offhand.

Re pointing the hips on buildings is even more difficult being as there is nowhere to hang a roof crawler safely, it is necessary to remove a number of tiles from the roof to enable safe access. It is important that safety is observed at all times when dealing with roof repairs, especially on taller buildings and when trying to reach the outermost sections of tiling.

When re-pointing ridge tiles, it's not just simply good enough to skim over the existing tiles with a pointing trowel, thinking that it will last forever. The tiles should be lifted carefully and cleaned, any old cement then given a good brushing off to remove mosses and lichens, then given a quick brush over with uni-bond. The slates themselves need a little uni-bond applying to where the tiles are to go back, this will insure that the ridge and the roof tiles are bonded together with the cement that has been used to re-bed them.

It is always worth noting that the ridge irons should be replaced if the ridge tiles are to be re-bedded. Leaving old rusting iron work is a false economy and should be attended to at the same time as the roofing repairs. Matching of the ridges is paramount when the tiles have been blown from the roof in storms, as the old ones will probably be no good and matching replacements must be found, there are a lot of reclaimed building material yards in Nottingham to search for such replacements.

It is some times a good idea that when the tiles are in a conspicuous place like the front of the house, tiles may be removed from the rear roof of the property and moved to the front and the new tiles placed at the rear were they will in time catch carbons and dirt staining them the same color as those on the front roof.

when all the work is completed you shouldn't really be able to see there has been a repair at all. When choosing a roof repairer in Nottingham always employ a time served trades man and don't be afraid to ask about public liability insurance. Lastly never employ a builder that finds you, by this i mean the stranger that knocks at the door with tales of how you are missing a slate, and he just happens to have one exactly the same in the van. Thank him kindly and tell him the matter is in hand and close the door never employ one of these traveling builders that finds you, today he is a roofer yesterday he was properly a tar-mack monster and tomorrow he will be selling pegs. I know of at least 100 tradesmen from Nottingham and none of which go out canvasing for work door to door a builder that doesn't own a land line telephone or have an address may be difficult to find again.

A Note on Installation of the Metal Roofs

Usage of the metal roof is increasing everyday and with this popularity, more and more home-owners want to install their roofs themselves. This can both be a good and a bad choice. If you are good at construction and you have a little background, you can surely do this job but if you are a novice in this work, you can even end up busting your whole investment. Therefore this process is not worth taking chances. Do it if you know you can do this.

Now that you are going to get your own roof installed, you need some proper methods and the appropriate tools. Even professionals don't take the roofing project if they are not qualified for some specific type of the roofing. Many companies conduct the training for their proper roofing solution with the right tools required.

All the metal roofing tools are not same; they are different from one brand to another therefore be sure to get all the tools from the same brand so that there are no confusion later on. There are manuals provided with all the tools and supplies which demonstrate the precise usage of a specific tool.

Usage of Different Tools in Installation Process

There are many phases involved in the installation of a metal roof; different tools are used in every phase. Like when metal sheets are being cut, a proper metal cutter and the measuring tape is required so that you can accurately cut the metal.

When joining the different sheets the proper bolts and nuts should be used after the precise interval on the sheets. Sometime metal needs to be bent before fitting on the roof, proper tool is to be used for this purpose so that metal is bent as required and you do not inflict any damage to it.

Metal roofs have so much variety to choose from, tools change as we move form one metal to other and also the material changes as different materials are used for different metals. Materials also depend on the weather conditions in which the roof is going to be installed.

There are some tools which are necessary for the worker who is set to install the roof like proper foot-wear which does not slip as some roofs have steep slopes, and rope belts because the worker has to work on the roof where there is always danger to fall off.

Wise Decision

It is always a wise decision to leave this work to the professionals as there can be a lot of complications in the installation process and using the tools. The complication of your building requirements may require some tools which are not commonly available or they are too expensive to buy. In all these cases this work should be left to a professional contractor. Always use the safety guidelines when using a tool as some tools can be dangerously harmful if not used wisely.