Tag: Roofing Contractors - page 6

The material of choice for most northern roofs is asphalt.  Asphalt shingles are a popular roofing material in a majority of homes for many reasons including cost, ease of installation and its longevity.  Asphalt roofs, when installed properly, are known to last on average for twenty plus years.  Is the lifespan of your asphalt roof reaching its peak? Maybe now is the perfect time to start considering your roof replacement options.  Most homeowners want to complete home improvements when the time is right.  When is the best time to install a new roof?  It just may not be what you expect.

Winter Roof Replacement

Everyone that is familiar with northern winters understands that roofing isn’t really a great option.  The snow, ice and colder temperatures make roofing materials such as asphalt difficult to work with.  The asphalt shingles become brittle and hard.  Professional roofing contractors will tell you that these are not the ideal conditions in which to install a new roof.  The cold is not ideal for roofers, roofing tools, sealants or much else that the northern climates offer during the winter season.  New roofs in northern climates are better installed during another season.

Spring Roof Replacement

Spring roof replacement tends to be one of the least expensive times of the year to install your homes new roof.  Spring is a great time to replace ones roof if the issues your roof has had are not worsened by waiting through the winter.  Roofing contractors are not as busy as they will be in the upcoming seasons and roofing materials can often be found at a discount.  Most manufacturers are offering discounts on materials from last season to clear the inventory for new arriving roofing supplies.  This allows roofing contractors to bid lower on residential roofing projects than they normally could during the summer and fall seasons.  If money is an object and you are working within a budget consider spring roof replacement.

Summer Roof Replacement

There is no denying that summer has become the best known time for home improvements for homeowners in the north.  One thing to remember is that the heat of northern summers is never a joke.  Northern summers can reach unbearable temperatures and out of control humidity levels.  This can make roofing unpleasant for both roofing contractors and the materials they use.  When installing roofs it is best to avoid the extremes within any season.

Fall Roof Replacement

The best time of the year to install a new roof for homes in the northern regions is the fall.  The temperatures are perfect; not too hot and not too cold.  Roofing contractors and their crews can work without the worry of heat exhaustion or hypothermia.  With mild temperatures also comes easier installation.  Roofing materials are easier to work with and the elements are not such a huge factor. It may also be the busiest time for roofers!  To be sure you get an appointment when the timing is most convenient for both homeowner and contractor schedule your roof replacement now instead of waiting until roofing contractors are well on their way managing through their busy seasons.

Home Pro Roofing contractors offer a variety of roofing services throughout Brighton, East Lansing, Ann Arbor, Fenton and Commerce Township, including installation of shingle roofs, metal roofing and roof repairs.  You will find them at http://www.homeproroofingmi.com today.

A trend is defines as a general direction in which something is developing or changing.  In roofing we often see trends come and go right along with new the movement in home designs.  If you are looking to replace your homes roof in 2016 roofing contractors suggest that you make the most out of your investment by looking at styles that are popular amongst homes currently being built.  Leave the past in the past with home improvement on the interior and exterior of your home.  As for a new roof take a look into the following fads that roofing contractors are seeing this spring.

• Roofing that is Environmentally Friendly: It is very clear that eco friendly home improvements are selling homes. The more efficient and environmentally friendly your house is the more attractive it is to buyers.  Environmentally friendly roofing reduces the carbon footprint you leave along with lowering utility bills.  When replacing your roof look for an efficient design, using eco-friendly materials and sustainable construction practices.

• Lighter Colors In Asphalt Shingle Roofing: Traditionally roofs have been designed using darker color shingling; this is all about to change. Lighter shades of roofing are popular options in 2016.  Consider shades in white, gray, beige and light blue all of which are popular trends within the roofing industry.  Lighter shades of shingling give a soft, warm look to the exterior of your home while also attracting less sunlight.  This helps keep your home cooler during the heat of summer.

• Reflective Roofing: Some homeowners still prefer the look achieved with darker roofing. If this is more your style consider reflective roofing.  Darker roofs that use reflective materials help increase your homes efficiency.  Consider coatings that make use of latex, silicone, acrylic or polyurethane which all work to keep the roof cooler.

• Roofs That Are Flat: Another trend that is popular with roofs for 2016 is flat roofs. This was a popular option for homes during the midcentury, modern design era.  Flat roofs offered clean lines which are once again becoming popular in modern home design.  A flat roof offers a bit of nostalgia and a nod to current styles.

• Sheet Metal Roofs: For both commercial and residential buildings sheet metal roofing is becoming more and more popular. Sheet metal roofs offer homeowners a roof that will last two times longer than that of traditional roofs. Sheet metal offers a low carbon footprint, the eco-friendliness that was mentioned earlier which will make your home popular when you go to sell it.

Contact local roofing contractors to determine the roofing trend that meets your needs and adds to the overall aesthetic value of the exterior of your home.

Home Pro Roofing contractors offer a variety of roofing services throughout Brighton, East Lansing, Ann Arbor, Fenton and Commerce Township, including installation of shingle roofs, metal roofing and roof repairs.  You will find them at http://www.homeproroofingmi.com today.

Finally the snow is starting to melt.  The cold temperatures and winter precipitation are giving way to the sounds of spring.   Now is the time that homeowners should start to reach out to contractors to help them get ready for spring time maintenance.  Roofing contractors are especially busy with roof inspections and spring cleaning.

Yep, even your roof needs attention after a long winter.  This is especially true in areas where fall leaves fell late and the snow covered piles of rotting leaves.  Underneath this mess is for sure to be the start of moss and algae growth.  Spring cleaning and maintenance will ensure your roof is in top condition and left looking brand new. Here are some tips to take into account when it comes to spring maintenance for your roof.

When you live in an area where tree growth is heavy it is crucial that all the tree limbs that are close to the roof are cut back.  This helps allow the sun to shine on the roof to help dry out left over moisture and prevents tree limbs from rubbing over the shingles and loosening the protective granules.

When leaves and one needles fall and are left to collect on your shingles they will hold in moisture causing mildew to build up, gutters to become blocked and extra weight on the roof.  A low intensity leaf blower should be used to clear the roof.  Never use a high powered blower or rake to clear the roof as this can cause damage to the shingle roof.

Although trimming back trees and clearing leaves will help reduce moss growth on your roof it can still form in pockets that do not have enough access to sunlight.  Moss thrives on moisture and therefore unless the roof can thoroughly dry it will continue to grow and thrive.  One way to rid your roof of moss is to use a chemical solution that is available on the market today although the chemicals can cause damage to plants and other landscaping in the area.  Another solution is to install a zinc or copper strip to the ridge line of the roof.  As rain washes across the area it will help to create an environment where moss can no longer grow.

Mold is another issue that needs to be addressed in the spring when maintaining your roof.  Mold, algae and fungi all eat away at your roofing which eventually will cause a leak in the roofs foundation.  In order to treat your shingles roofing contractors suggest a solution of chlorine bleach or copper sulfate be sprayed on the area.  Never power wash a roof to get rid of mold or growths as this can dislodge the granules on the asphalt shingles and cause failure to the roof.

A final step in spring roofing maintenance has to do with your gutters.  Leftover fall leaves and debris can fall into the homes gutters and cause them to clog.  This can cause damage along the roof line.  Before the springtime rain comes clear the debris from the gutters and ensure that water can flow through without any issue.  Fix loose nails that prevent the gutters from sitting flush along the roof line.

Handling potential issues with your roof during spring maintenance prevents serious problems later on down the road.

Home Pro Roofing contractors offer a variety of roofing services throughout Brighton, East Lansing, Ann Arbor, Fenton and Commerce Township, including installation of shingle roofs, metal roofing and roof repairs.  You will find them at http://www.homeproroofingmi.com today.

As the snow begins to melt and the weather becomes warmer the list of things homeowners need to accomplish before the heat of the summer returns continues to grow.  When it comes to home improvements spring is the perfect time to get things done.  Now is the perfect time to start planning!

When it comes to spring cleaning one area that is often forgotten about is your roof.  This is a mistake that many homeowners make.  Your roof is your homes first defense when it comes to protecting your home from the elements.  Homeowners should be sure to check their roofs for broken or loose asphalt shingles.  Shingles that are broken or loose will create issues for the structure of the roof.  The water that puddles or leaks because of faulty shingling can cause more than issues with your roofing.  The homes structure relies on the overall effectiveness of the roof.

While homeowners are on the roof they should also review the homes gutters.  Snow and ice throughout the winter can lead to additional deposits of leaves, twigs and pine needles within the gutters.  To prevent clogging within the downspouts, homeowners should create an environment that allows water to flow through without any clogging to the home downspouts.  Roofing contractors recommend thorough roof inspections throughout the spring to prevent major damage that can occur when roofing issues are left untreated.

Spring is the perfect time to think about painting your home.  The weather is finally warm enough that homeowners can open their windows, paint and enjoy the fresh color on your walls. Pick at least one room each spring and give the space a facelift.

Now is also the time to start planning for a facelift on the exterior of your home as well.  Your homes landscape makes or breaks the curb appeal of your home.  A little sweat equity goes a long way when it comes to improving the first impression people have of your home.  Clean up your landscaping, add some color and reinvent the exterior of your home.  Grab some pruning shears and get busy.  A bit of elbow grease goes a long way in your homes curb appeal.

Spring cleaning often brings on a bit of cabin fever when this occur start by decreasing the clutter in your home.  Look around your home, open your windows, shake some rugs and start to go through the clutter that has become your home.

In short when considering spring maintenance around your home begin by considering the effects the winter weather has had on your roof.  It is important you or a professional roofing contractor looks at your roof and considers the shape your gutters are in.  From there consider a new coat of paint on the interior walls, declutter closets and knick knacks and tidy up the exterior of your home. This will ensure you and your home are ready to recover from the enclosed feeling of winter and move into the freedom summer brings us.

Home Pro Roofing contractors offer a variety of roofing services throughout Brighton, East Lansing, Ann Arbor, Fenton and Commerce Township, including installation of shingle roofs, metal roofing and roof repairs.  You will find them at http://www.homeproroofingmi.com today.

Preventative maintenance is crucial when it comes to staying ahead of major problems that can arise around your home.  It is easy to overlook simple safeguards when your home is functioning properly.  An easy way to ensure that your home is cared for on a regular basis is to create a weekly, monthly, seasonal and yearly plan of action to anticipate problems before they occur.   A roof inspection is one of the most important yearly inspections that you can do for your homes well being.

Three quarters of inspecting your homes roof can be done from the ground.  In fact the less you walk around on the shingles the better for your roof and the safer you will be.  Work around the home from the ground; grab a pair of binoculars to help view potential problems without ever getting on a ladder.

Here is what to look for:

–          Worn caulking that appears to be cracking

–          Rust build up or spots starting to show on flashing

–          Buckling, curling, cracking or blistered asphalt shingle materials

–          Shingles that are missing or broken

–          Rubber boots around vent pipes that are worn or cracking

–          Damage to the chimney cap

–          A build up of moss, algae or lichen as this can signal roof decay (It is important to note that black algae is cosmetic)

At any point if you see asphalt grit in the gutters it is a bad sign.  The granules from the asphalt protect the roofing shingles from the ultraviolet rays that can cause extreme damage.  If you begin to see your shingles are losing granolas it is a sure signal that you roof is aging and is close to the end of its life cycle.

Not all roofing problems require a professional roofing contractor to fix them.  However, if the homeowner is unsure of heights or has an issue with getting on the roof it is advisable that a roofing contractor is called in to repair even the most minor of issues.

Most homeowners can fix loose, damaged or missing shingles or replace cracked caulking around flashing.  Nails on the roof that have popped out of place can easily be tapped back into place by even novice do it yourselfers.  Simple roofing repairs require about half a day and can be done for around thirty dollars.  A bundle of asphalt shingles is about twenty four dollars and roofing caulk and tar costs around six dollars per tube.

If you notice that the caulk around the metal or vinyl flashing, chimneys, sky lights or attic vents is separating the old caulk should be removed, the area cleaned and new caulk installed.   If the vent boot or flashing itself has begun to visually deteriorate it is important that the piece itself is replaced.

When repairs are beyond what homeowners feel comfortable tackling on their own a professional should be called in.  When hiring a professional roofing contractor it is best to seek bids from at least two roofing companies.  Minor repairs can be done by most handymen inexpensively if you are in a hurry. It is best however to establish a relationship with a roofing contractor as you never know when an emergency is going to strike and you will need more than just an ordinary, everyday handyman.

Home Pro Roofing contractors offer a variety of roofing services throughout Brighton, East Lansing, Ann Arbor, Fenton and Commerce Township, including installation of shingle roofs, metal roofing and roof repairs.  You will find them at http://www.homeproroofingmi.com today.

Home trends change with the tides; from one year to another what is popular in home improvements evolve.  In 2016 trends for the home improvement industry look to include smaller homes with the addition of tech savvy features; homes that appeal to younger families who live the on the go life style.  Home purchasers are more intuitive than ever before. They know exactly what they are looking for n a home.  Whether the homes on the market are move in ready or ready for renovation eager first time home buyers are ready to change the direction of home improvements.

One trend in home improvements that is changing the way homeowners manage their homes revolves around smartphones.  Homeowners are eager to take advantage of the easy to use apps now available to manage their homes.  With the possibility of home management being at their finger tips homebuyers are looking to upgrade their homes for convenience. Smart apps make daily household chores less time-consuming while also creating an environment that reduces energy consumption and allows homeowners to live green.

Another popular trend in home improvement include open floor plans that allow the kitchen, dining and living room areas to flow into one another without the distraction of walls and barriers. What occurs when homes are renovated in this fashion is an area that creates a large gathering space.  IT is no secret that the kitchen space is the gathering hot spot in most homes.  While the homeowner/hostess is busy in the kitchen space they can continue to enjoy the presence of their other guests.  Open floor plans are the must have renovation of 2016.

An exterior trend in roofing that is sure to top the most popular home improvement projects of 2016 is incorporating solar energy.  Roofing contractors believe that this is the year that homeowners embrace the trend of harnessing the power of the sun to use that energy to run their homes.  This would reduce the cost of utilities while decreasing the negative effects on the environment.  Roofing contractor’s suggesting that the future of roofing is all about longevity, recyclability and what the roofing offers to the homeowner.

2016 is the year for homeowners to not only consider the environment in their home improvement projects but also themselves.  The get-away-room is a popular concept with the arrival of the open floor plan. Everyone needs a minute alone. Some homeowners choose a spa like bathroom for their retreat but this is not always optimal.  A space that is created to invite homeowners to relax and enjoy their homes alone is a popular home renovation in 2016; this includes small cozy reading nooks to recreation spaces.  Whatever space is assured to offer the homeowner peace and tranquility is a popular home improvement option in 2016.

Home Pro Roofing contractors offer a variety of roofing services throughout Brighton, East Lansing, Ann Arbor, Fenton and Commerce Township, including installation of shingle roofs, metal roofing and roof repairs.  You will find them at http://www.homeproroofingmi.com today.

Homeownership is one of the largest responsibilities that a person can take on. Homes are one of the single most expensive purchases most people make in their lifetime. Owning a home is largely rewarding especially when actions are taken to properly maintain it. This doesn’t mean that it is without its hassles though. Unexpected occurrences have a way of turning into unforeseen repairs and surprise expenses. One area often overlooked is your homes roof. This is an expense that you want to be prepared for as a new roof is a financial commitment in itself.

Your homes roof is an essential element of your home. A lot goes into building your homes roof therefore a lot must go into maintain it. There are many different ways to go about this. One way is to hire a professional roofing contractor once a year. They will come out, get on the roof and physically inspect and repair any faulty areas within the roof and its structure. Another way is to come up with a safe maintenance plan that you yourself can use to inspect the roof at the beginning of the spring and fall seasons. Maintaining and protecting your homes roof from the elements is fundamental to ensure the safety and comfort of your family.

The climate throughout the North is often unpredictable no matter what season we are in. We can always expect inclement weather which will unfortunately impact your home, especially the roof. You must maintain and prepare your roof for everything that is possible from high winds, tornadoes, hail, ice, wet snow and more. The weather is especially uncertain throughout the summer and winter; take time in the spring and fall to ensure gutters are clear, shingle replaced, tar and caulk applied and repairs to the structure are made.

If you are currently unsure about the condition of your homes roof it is best to hire a professional roofing contractor to inspect it. While they are there have them go over what they are checking for in order to create a checklist for yourself. Have the roofer give you an estimate on labor costs to repair the roof so that you can start stashing cash away now. If upon inspection they find that the roof is too far gone to be repaired and needs to be replaced you can have them prepare a quote on the spot. This will give you a ball park figure to work with and something to compare other quotes too.

Home Pro Roofing contractors offer a variety of roofing services throughout Brighton, East Lansing, Ann Arbor, Fenton and Commerce Township, including installation of shingle roofs, metal roofing and roof repairs. You will find them athttp://www.homeproroofingmi.com today.

Your homes foundation, without a doubt, is the most important aspect in creating a stable, lasting home.  The second being your roof as it is needed for stability as well as protection, sheltering you and your belongings from the elements.  Careful consideration is needed when choosing a roofing material for your home.  Take into consideration the style of the home as well as the local climate when deciding what material you will use to cover your homes roof.

There are five basic styles of roofing, each with their own advantages and disadvantages.  Asphalt, shingles, wood, slate and tile shingles being the most commonly used materials in roofing.

Asphalt Shingles 

Asphalt shingles are the most commonly used especially in climates with a variety of weather conditions.  They are not only durable but also easy to install and less expensive than most roofing materials.  Asphalt shingles are good for a variety of roof pitches however should not be used with flat roofs.  There are two types of asphalt shingles including fiberglass and organic.  Fiberglass shingles are lighter, more resistant to fire and better in warm climates than organic shingles.  Organic shingles are good in a variety of weather and remain flexible under freezing conditions making them a better choice for colder climates.

Metal Shingles 

Metal roofing is a popular option as it offers both durability and attractiveness.  One drawback is the expense. Metal roofing is about one third more expensive then asphalt.  They are by far the lightest material that can be used in roofing including aluminum, steel, and copper.  One disadvantage is that metal can be dented in hail storms although new finishes eliminate rust and fading.  If you choose copper it is important to know it can last for up to a hundred years however is higher priced than other metal roofing.

Wood Shingles 

The most common wooden shingles is made from cedar although pine and spruce can be used as well.  Wood is a less durable option than other roofing materials.  The normal life span of a cedar roof is about thirty years.  The cost of the materials are often less than others however the labor expense outweighs that of asphalt, metal, slate and tile.

Slate Shingles 

Slate is considered to have the most longevity out of any other roofing material.  Slate lasts upwards of a hundred years.  It also comes in a variety of colors and designs which make is a popular choice.  To get this curb appeal to adjourn your homes prepare to shell out some major money.  Slate can cost more than four times the average cost of other roofing materials.

Tile Shingles 

Tile shingles are available in concrete, runner and clay.  Depending on the material chosen will depend on the cost you should expect to pay.  One major disadvantage of tile roofing is the weight of the tiles.  This alone may make this option obsolete for your home.  Tile does offer durability and lasts about fifty years.

Whatever type of roof you select it won’t last to its potential without being installed by an experienced roofing contractor.  Weigh the advantages and disadvantages with each roofing material against one another while considering local experienced roofing contractors that can install a new roof with the material of choice.

Home Pro Roofing contractors offer a variety of roofing services throughout Brighton, East Lansing, Ann Arbor, Fenton and Commerce Township, including installation of shingle roofs, metal roofing and roof repairs.  You will find them at http://www.homeproroofingmi.com today.

How do homeowners go about getting the roof they want within their set budget?  It can be done however takes a bit of diligence.  It takes defining alternatives, knowing exactly what you need and outline a definitive budget to stay within during the roofing project.  Below you will find steps to refine your roofing project.

Assess your roofing needs.  Do you need to install a whole new roof or can you get by with repairs to the existing roof?  Homeowners may choose to just repair a leaky roof over replacing it because of the lower cost and smaller time constraint.  However to make the decision between repair and replacement there are a list of factors to consider.  It may be a better option to replace a leaking roof depending on the age of the existing roofing structure and materials as well as its history.  Do you believe the roof will need ongoing repairs?  If this is the case, or with older roofs it may end up being that a full roof replacement is the most cost effective strategy.  Sometimes repairing a roof can be tricky especially when trying to locate matching materials.

Learn about the style of your roof as well as its structure and design to determine the selection of roofing materials you can choose from.   Depending on the weight baring capability and structure under the existing roof limits may apply to the materials you can choose from.  Tile and slate require additional support due to their weight where as lighter materials like metal and asphalt work well on most roof structures without additional structural support.  Consider the number of slopes, gables, stories and roofing angels that your roofing contractor will have to navigate.  These variables add additional fees into the labor cost over large, single story roofs without a steep pitch or varied angles to negotiate while installing your new roof.

Look into the cost of both materials and labor.  The material you choose to have installed on your new roof will help in determining the costs involved.  The cost of both material and labor increase when you choose more specialized materials such as metal, tile, slate or wood over asphalt shingles.  Each material requires special installation that not every roofing contractor as experience in.  In order to ensure your roof is aesthetically please hire a roofing contractor that specializes in the material you have chosen.  This will add to the labor costs but is essential to ensuring the longevity and curb appeal of your new roof.

It is your home and all home improvements should be done to your specifications.  You as the homeowner are the one that will be living with the choices made for years to come.  Take your time when choosing a material and contractor for your new roof.

Home Pro Roofing contractors offer a variety of roofing services throughout Brighton, East Lansing, Ann Arbor, Fenton and Commerce Township, including installation of shingle roofs, metal roofing and roof repairs.  You will find them at http://www.homeproroofingmi.com today.

It is important for homeowners to consider what they want in a new roof, roof replacement or roof repair and how to go about getting it within their allotted budget.  In order to do this it is crucial that you know exactly what you can afford to spend on the venture and define cost saving alternatives available to help make your project work within your allotted budget.  Below you will find steps to help you refine the roofing process.

Should you replace or repair your roof?

This question is one that is not easily answered.  In order to determine if your roof is in need of repair or replacing you must take into a variety of considerations.  Repairing a leak in your shingle roof may be a preferable option over a complete roof replacement due to lower cost and time restrictions.  However, there are several things to consider before jumping to that conclusion.  Some of the things you will need to look at are the age of the roof, the history of previous repairs on the roof and the consideration of finding materials that will match the existing roof structure.

How will the structure and design of your roof affect the materials available and cost of labor?

The selection of roofing materials to choose from in replacing your roof will be limited to the underlying structure of the roof.  Not all existing structures can support new materials.  It isn’t common to replace a shingle roof with tile or slate which is the heaviest of roofing materials.  Different roofing materials, as well as the design and angles of your roof can increase the cost of a new roof significantly.

What style and cost considerations are there?

When looking into putting a new roof on your home you must take into consideration the style of your home.  If you have a shingle roof budget but a villa style home you need to seriously consider one of two things: saving more money or looking for a material that is complementary to the homes style that fits within your allotted budget.  It is crucial to the curb appeal of your home to consider the aesthetics of the new roof.

Who will you choose as your roofing contractor?

A quality roofing contractor is even more important than superior quality roofing materials.  Instead of looking for the lowest bid look for an experienced roofing contractor that has a proven record for installing the materials you are choosing for your new roof.  Quality installation makes the difference in all home improvement projects your roof included.

Home Pro Roofing contractors offer a variety of roofing services throughout Brighton, East Lansing, Ann Arbor, Fenton and Commerce Township, including installation of shingle roofs, metal roofing and roof repairs.  You will find them at http://www.homeproroofingmi.com today.