Author: hoth roofingindiana

Choosing the right material for your new roof can be a confusing process. From asphalt shingles to metal roofing or tiles, how can you know which material is best for your home? What about plastic roofing? If you haven’t heard of it, roofing made from PVC (polyvinyl chloride) is new on the roofing-materials scene. Is it a worthy option for a roof replacement? Let’s look at plastic roofing and what you need to know about it before choosing your next roof.

Why Choose a Plastic Roof?

Your child’s Barbie Dreamhouse might do well with its plastic roof, but can your “real” home benefit from plastic roofing? 

Plastic roofing material has a few benefits you might consider when it’s time to get a new roof.

It’s Fire Resistant

Your roof helps protect your home from weather and fire. When choosing a new roof, you want a material that has a Class A level of fire resistance. Class A is the highest rating for roofing and other materials against the threat of fire.

Most plastic roofs have a Class A rating. How is that possible with a plastic roof? While many plastics can melt in extreme heat, the PVC that goes into a plastic roof resists extreme heat and fire to achieve that top rating. 

It’s Impact Resistant

Despite being lighter in weight than many other roofing materials, a plastic roof is highly impact resistant. 

A plastic roof can withstand heavy winds and falling limbs or other debris. Your plastic roof can also handle it when you walk on it to put up Christmas lights or when roofers need to get on the roof to make repairs. 

It’s Water (and Pest) Resistant 

Because plastic is a water-resistant material, your home can benefit from a plastic roof. With water-resistant properties, plastic roof panels aren’t susceptible to fungus, rot, mildew, or decay that can lead to holes and leaks.

When a roof falls victim to these conditions, it’s easier for animals to find a way into your attic through the roof. Since your plastic roof won’t rot because of damp weather conditions, you can reduce the access entry points that rodents might find into your home.  

Why Traditional Roofing Materials Might Be a Better Option 

If a plastic roof sounds too good to be true, it might be. While there are several good benefits from choosing a plastic roof, you should also know about the cons of plastic roofing material.

They Haven’t Been Around Long

Plastic roofs haven’t been around as long as “traditional” roofing materials, like composite or asphalt shingles, tiles, or metal. While some of the perks of plastic roofing seem like a good idea, we don’t know how long a plastic roof can sustain those perks. 

Asphalt shingles last anywhere from fifteen to thirty years. They are the most common roofing materials, are fire-resistant, and most asphalt roofs come with a warranty that covers materials. 

Plastic roofs don’t have the longevity in the marketplace to let us know that they can last as long as an asphalt or metal roof.  

They Might Look a Little Different

When choosing different materials for your roof, you want your roof to look like a roof! Depending on your neighborhood and the other homes in the area, your roof should blend in. If you have a Homeowners Association, you could have restrictions or guidelines about roof colors and materials. 

While plastic roofing can offer several choices for colors and styles, choosing the right color and type of shingles is an important decision. It can be challenging to make synthetic materials (like plastic) look like the “real” thing.

They Can Be Expensive

Depending on your roof, plastic roof panels can be more expensive than a traditional asphalt shingle roof. Metal or slate tiles are some of the priciest roofs when it comes to traditional roofing materials. 

However, if you’re budget-conscious, you’ll probably spend a bit more on a plastic roof than an asphalt roof. Plus, you can trust the long lifespan of an asphalt roof to get your money’s worth.  

They Aren’t Easily Green

Given the current debate about the use of plastics—from straws to water bottles—plastic roofing materials aren’t the greenest option for your roof.

While PVC roofing can provide good insulation to your home and reduce your energy consumption, the aftermath of your plastic roof can be an eco-friendly problem. 

Depending on the specific plastics used in your roofing tiles, these plastics can take longer to break down in landfills than other roofing materials. If you prefer a greener roofing option, choose recycled, wood, metal, or slate roofing materials. 

Do Your Research

When it’s time for a new roof, do your research. There are plenty of options to find the right materials that fit the needs of your home and your budget. 

Work with a professional roofing contractor to help you make the best decisions for your new roof. When choosing a contractor, be sure to:

• Look for reviews and references
• Work with your insurance company
• Check the warranties
• Don’t judge based solely on price

The best roofing contractors want your roof to last a lifetime—no matter the materials you choose. Find a contractor that offers excellent service throughout the life of your roof. 

Whether Asphalt, Metal, or Plastic Roofing, Choose Wisely!

When deciding between asphalt, metal, slate, or plastic roofing materials, choose wisely. The best roofing materials are the best option for your home. 

In Indiana, let Roofing Indiana Homes guide you to the best roofing materials for your new roof! We are locally owned and operated while serving the Central Indiana area. Our experienced and trusted contractors can help you choose the best new roof backed by our excellent customer service and installation. 

Don’t wait to repair or replace a faulty roof. Contact us for a free estimate! 

While all roofing materials have their benefits, none are quite as beautiful as cedar shingles. Cedar shingles possess a unique and rustic charm that will undoubtedly help your home to stand out among the others. 

That said, cedar shingles have their flaws. For this reason, they’re not the ideal option for everyone. 

Wondering whether they’re right for you? Then read on. To help you decide, we’re going to review their pros and their cons below. 

The Pros of Cedar Shingles

The pros of cedar shingles are many. The most prominent of these pros will be reviewed below. 

Aesthetically Beautiful

While aesthetic preferences are, by and large, subjective, it wouldn’t be a stretch to call cedar shingles beautiful. Carrying a traditional and rustic charm, they add a unique and eye-catching appearance to any home upon which they’re installed. As such, they can turn even the simplest of homes into marvelous spectacles. 

Because they can be stained and painted, cedar shingles can assume a variety of different aesthetics. If you’re looking for a traditional aesthetic, you can just leave them untreated. If you’re looking for something a little more luxurious, a stain will accommodate you. 

One thing’s for certain: by installing cedar shingles on your home, you will help it to stand out among the others. After all, cedar shingles aren’t anywhere near as common as asphalt shingles. 

Durable

In addition to being aesthetically beautiful, cedar shingles are also highly durable. On average, they thrive for around 50 years. For comparison’s sake, asphalt shingles only last for around 25 years. 

Note, however, that they are vulnerable to the elements. Rain, snow, and sun can cause cedar shingles to deteriorate, leading to their premature death. 

For this reason, if you want to get the most out of your cedar shingles, you’ll have to maintain them properly. Failure to perform proper maintenance on your shingles can cause them to warp, crack, and buckle before their time. 

Wind-resistant

One of the big problems with asphalt shingles is that they’re highly susceptible to wind. In the event that a big storm blows through, asphalt shingles could very easily be torn off of your roof.

This is not the case with cedar shingles. They are much heavier and much more solid than asphalt shingles, almost 100% ensuring that they’ll stick to your roof through rough storms. 

Energy Efficient

Looking to save as much energy as possible? Hoping to cut down on the cost of your energy bills? If so, these are the ideal roofing option for you. 

Simply put, cedar is an exceedingly insulative material. Thick and dense, it essentially stops heat and cold in their tracks. As such, it allows furnaces and air conditioners to work as efficiently as possible. 

In comparison, asphalt provide only around half the insulation provided by cedar shingles. Because of this, they do very little to take the strain off of their corresponding home’s HVAC system. 

Environmentally Friendly

Another pro is that they’re environmentally friendly. Because they’re made out of natural wood, they have no ill effect on the environment. 100% biodegradable, they will eventually deteriorate into the soil, leaving no trace of their existence. 

There is no other roofing material that’s as environmentally friendly as cedar shingles. For comparison, asphalt shingles aren’t biodegradable at all. As such, they put tons of strain on landfills. 

The Cons of Cedar Shingles

While the pros are many, they don’t come without their cons. The primary cons of are as follows:

Expensive

To put it simply they are expensive. This is one of the reasons that you don’t see them much. Most homeowners can’t reasonably afford to buy or maintain them. 

The average cost? Between $600 and $900 per square (a square is a 100 square foot area). For comparison, asphalt shingles cost between $350 and $450 per square. 

To truly illustrate this difference in cost, let’s suppose we’re dealing with a 1,000 square foot roof; This would require 10 squares of roofing. To cover such a roof with this material, you would have to pay between $6,000 and $9,000. To cover such a roof with asphalt shingles, you would only have to pay between $3,500 and $4,500. 

As you can see, the difference is substantial. Plus, it doesn’t even take into account the long-term maintenance costs. So, when all is said and done, they will end up costing you around twice the price of what asphalt would have cost you. 

High-maintenance

As was noted above, cedar shingles require a great deal of maintenance in order to thrive. This maintenance is not only time-consuming to carry out but fairly expensive as well. Before you install cedar shingles, you must take this added expense into consideration. 

Like all roofing materials, these too need to be cleaned. Not only must you rid them of miscellaneous debris, but you must also scrub them down with soap and water. Failure to do so could result in premature water damage and algae growth. 

In addition to cleaning your cedar shingles, you must also stain them. Applying a stain not only helps to improve the aesthetic of your shingles but it can also help to stave off water damage, prolonging their lifespan. 

You should clean your shingles every half-year or so. Staining, on the other hand, should occur every 3 to 5 years. 

Ready to Install Cedar Shingles?

What do you say? Are cedar shingles right for your home? If so, and if you’re looking for a roofing company in central Indiana, M&J Exteriors is the company to call. 

Our team of seasoned roofers have installed these shingles on a bevy of homes throughout central Indiana. Experienced, insured, and certified, we look forward to providing your home with a fresh look. 

Contact us today to schedule a free estimate! 

In 2015, 750,000 homeowners installed metal roofs, and this number continues to grow as homeowners see the benefits. Metal roofs not only are appealing to the eye; they also have many advantages. If you are considering investing in a tin roofing, you know it’s a big investment. Let’s take a look at the advantages and disadvantages of tin roofing to see if this investment is right for you.

1. Durable and Long-Lasting

One of the top reasons homeowners select metal roofs is because they are much more durable than asphalt. Metal roofs can be two to three times stronger than asphalt and last up to 50-60 years.

Metal roofs don’t lose their luster with nature’s elements either. Rain, wind, and snow do not impact the roof because they are weatherproof.

Manufacturers agree that the lifespan of metal roofs is much longer and add a 30-50 year warranty depending on the make and style. Metal roofs can also withstand wind gusts up to 140 miles per hour. They don’t corrode or crack because of the rust-proof coating.

2. Environmentally Friendly

Asphalt shingles are made from petroleum which increases the need for fossil fuels. You need to replace asphalt shingles every 15-20 years, which means 11 million tons of asphalt shingles enter landfills each year.

Metal roofs are more sustainable because they use recycled materials, and steel roofs can be used over and over and not lose strength. Some metal roofs are light, weighing only about one-third that of asphalt roofing. This allows contractors to install metal roofs directly over the asphalt shingles without compromising the roof’s structure and creating additional waste. 

3. Energy Efficient

Metal roofs can also save on heating and cooling because of the roof’s ability to reflect the sun. Metal roofs do not absorb the sun’s heat—they reflect it year-round. The ventilation under the sheathing also helps decrease the flow of heat on the roof.

The reflective properties can save homeowners 25 percent on cooling costs. Asphalt roofs absorb the heat in the summer, which in turn requires homeowners to crank up the air conditioning.

4. Stylish

Metal roofs are much different than they used to be in the past with various finishes, colors, and shapes. You can choose between aluminum, tin, zinc, or galvanized steel to complete the look of your home. Asphalt shingles do not offer as many options.

If you want to change the color of your metal roof, some types of metal roofs have finishes that can be painted. 

You can also find metal roof styles resembling clay tiles or wood shakes. The metal can mimic just about any look and give you that strong, durable structure.

5. Good for All Seasons

Along with reflecting the sun’s heat in the summer, a metal roof can also help in the winter. Ice dams are a significant issue in colder areas like the Midwest. Ice dams happen when there are poor ventilation and faulty insulation.

These ice dams cause leaks in the roof. Most of the time these leaks are in the attic, so the homeowner may not be aware for months.

Inadequate attic insulation allows hot air to rise up in the house and into the attic. This trapped heat warms the roof and then melts the snow lying on top. This results in the melted water running down the roof slope and then refreezing near the eaves, creating an ice dam.

Metal roofs prevent snow and ice accumulation, which means ice dams do not form. This is why metal roofs are great in cold climates as well as hotter climates. 

6. Can Be Noisy

You’ve probably heard the old saying about “rain on the tin roof” because metal roofs can be a bit noisier than other roofs, especially if the rain is heavy or there is a thunderstorm. You can stop the extra noise by installing extra layers of insulation and solid sheathing to minimize the sound. This is an extra cost, so you will have to consider the noise factor when choosing a roof.

7. The Cost

Because metal roofs are so durable, the material is expensive. Depending on the type you choose, it can run anywhere from $120 to $900 per 100 square feet. This means higher-end metal roofing can cost up to 10 times the amount of asphalt shingles.

Labor is also more expensive because you need contractors with specialized training, equipment, and knowledge. You have to consider which type of roof is right for you, and you can check out various options. A metal roof may be the only roof you need to install on your home, so you get what you pay for.

Tin Roofing Repair and Maintenance

You may be wondering if there is any additional maintenance with tin roofs. These roofs are easy to maintain and simple to repair. You will need to re-apply the protective coating about every 5-7 years to make sure it can resist elements and keep its style. 

You can then choose to change the color at this time as we mentioned above. The most common colors include red or black, but you can do any tint you like. 

For scratches, the area will need to be wiped down with mineral spirits. Then you can touch up the paint with a paintbrush. You may likely be able to do this yourself for minor surface corrosion and paint touch-ups if you are okay with climbing up a ladder.

Want to Learn More?

Do you need a new roof? If you have any of these signs of needing a new roof, we are here for you. We can discuss various styles with you including tin roofing if you want to make the investment. 

Metal roofs are extremely durable and can last you a lifetime. However, they can be expensive. If you want to make this investment, we can work with you to find the best style. 

Contact us today for a free estimate. We can answer any other questions to help you decide if you want a tin roof or the traditional asphalt roof.

Homeowners across the United States spent $394 billion on home repair projects in 2018 alone. 

Among the most popular home improvement projects from homeowners is roofing work which among others includes repairing or completely replacing the vents. Since roofing vents directly impact the indoor air quality of your home, you can’t skimp on them or let them become dilapidated. 

To keep your roof in good operational order, here is a deep dive into the importance of roofing vents and the various types of roof vents you can consider using. 

The Importance of Roofing Vents 

Roofing vents perform a critical task in keeping your home running while also protecting your health. Here are some tangible benefits that roofing vents bring to your home. 

1. Controlling the Moisture

Once the air in the attic stagnates, moisture will condense and settle on the insulation and framing. Such a situation encourages rot and mold to take root and is an essential indicator of a bad roof. 

When mold takes root, it ultimately makes the insulation clump while the rot can cause the roof to sag due to poor framing and decking. Using roofing vents helps ensure that moisture won’t condense and collect. 

2. Temperature Control

When air does not circulate well in the attic, it can cause the air in it to be superheated. Without any air movement, the air in the attic begins to heat up as the sun beats down on the roof. 

The accumulating heat then begins to move through the attics’ floor to the other rooms. The result is that the air in the rest of the house starts to heat up, which drives up your air conditioning use and their resulting energy bills. When you vent your roof, then you can avoid superheating your interior air. 

3. More Roof Shingle Wear and Tear

It’s not only your energy bills that are affected by superheated air, but your shingles also take a hit. Once the air in the attic superheats, it does not only seep out into the other rooms in the house. It also transfers back to the roof as well. 

Consequently, the roof shingles begin to absorb the heat. In the end, the near-constant state of being overheated can reduce the lifespan of your roof shingles considerably and thus durability should be a factor to consider among others as you buy roof shingles. 

Various Kinds of Roof Vents

Ever looked across the different types of roofing vents in your neighborhood and realized that they vary in style and position? That’s because there is a wide variety of roofing vents in use today. Let’s take a closer look at some of these vents. 

1. Soffit Vents

A soffit is that part of your roof that hangs out over the edge and which is hard for you to see. Soffit vents are specifically designed to be resistant to battering by the weather and the resulting wear and tear it causes. They are also designed to be highly resistant to pests.

Soffit vents are destined to take in air. That feature, in turn, can then help your roofing system balance the temperature of the air on the inside with that on the outside. 

It is common to find a soffit vent on a roofing system that uses ridge vents. That’s because ridge vents will sit much higher up the roof which allows the hot air that the soffit vent accounts for. 

2. Turbine Vents

Turbine vents are metallic turbines that are dome-shaped, and which rotate as the wind catches them. The dome-shape of the turbines enables them to pull hot air up and out of the attic much faster than non-moving vents. 

As long as you locate turbine vents in windy areas, then they can be quite useful. The downside of using such vents, though, is that they cost considerably more than static ones and can be less aesthetically appealing. 

3. Box Vents

A box vent (also known as a low profile vent) is little more than an opening which is covered by a box or dome-shaped top. These vents are typically installed along the ridge of your roof (and as high up as possible) with the express aim of letting the heat rise through them and escape via natural convection. 

While box vents are more aesthetically pleasing than turbines vents, they are also more prone to the weather. Thus, when you are looking for roofing contractors, you should inquire if they have experience in setting up weatherproofed box vents. 

4. Ridge Vents

A ridge vent is a space under the roof’s ridge where air from the attic below can escape through. These vets are quite popular due to their easy-to-install nature as part of the original roof ridge. Ridge vents are combined with a good intake vent to push hot air up and out of the structure. 

There is a particular type of ridge vent known as ‘shingle over’ because they are constructed directly under the shingles themselves. Non-shingle-over ridge vents are labelled as such since they are designed as a separate piece of material that is placed on top of the shingle, like a cap. 

5. Powered Vents

Powered vents are different from the other roofing vent types as they rely on electricity to keep the attic cool by quickly moving air out of it. Due to their powered nature, these vents are quite customizable, and that offers you a degree of flexibility that is hard to find with non-powered vents.

Many of the units (especially the earlier ones) work by being wired into your home’s electrical system. However, solar-powered roofing vents are also getting into the market and attracting the attention of homeowners due to their cost-effective nature. 

If your home has poor ventilation or air conditioning, then you may want to reconsider using powered vents. That’s because they may end up being too efficient and pulling heat from the attic rather quickly, making it hard to maintain the ideal cool temperature in your house. 

Vent Your Roof to Protect Your House

Home improvement projects have become popular among homeowners. Keeping the roof in top shape is essential for many homeowners during house improvement, and that includes ensuring the roof vents are in working order. Keep your roofing vents in top shape to avoid adversely impacting the rest of the house. 

Roofing Indiana Homes (M&J Exteriors) is a knowledgeable and experienced roofing partner that can help you keep your home in top shape. Talk to us today for a free estimate on how to keep your roofing vents working correctly. 

The average homeowner doesn’t spend a whole lot of time thinking about the condition of their gutters. They clean their gutters out once or twice every year, and as long as they look like they’re in decent shape when they’re doing it, they assume that everything is just fine with them.

If you own a home, you should make it a point to pay better attention to your gutters. While cleaning out your gutters is obviously important, you should also look out for signs that will show it’s time for you to have gutter repair done.

Let’s take a look at a few ways you’ll know you need to call a gutter contractor to schedule repairs to your home’s gutters.

Water Is Pooling Around Your Home’s Foundation

Have you noticed there seems to be water pooling around the foundation of your home almost every time it rains? This is a very bad sign and could indicate a huge problem with your home’s gutters.

Your gutters are designed to take rainwater and move it away from your home so it’s not able to come into contact with your foundation. So if it’s finding a way back to your foundation, it means your home’s gutters aren’t doing their job.

When water is allowed to pool around your foundation, it’ll often start to seep into it. This can lead to the formation of foundation cracks. It can also lead to water getting into your basement.

You should get in touch with a gutter contractor right away if you ever see rainwater around your home’s foundation. They can figure out why your gutters aren’t working the way they’re supposed to. They can also make suggestions on ways you can drain rainwater from your gutters more effectively.

Water Is Spilling Over the Sides of Your Gutters When It Rains

When gutters are first installed, they’re sloped so rainwater will move through them in the direction of your downspouts. This prevents water from simply sitting in your gutters rather than moving away from your home.

But over time, you may notice the slope gradually goes away. You might even find your gutters will start to slope in the wrong direction in some cases, which will send water away from your downspouts.

This could cause water to build up in your gutters when it rains. And when this happens, it’ll often begin to spill over the sides of your gutters and fall down toward your foundation.

A gutter contractor can check out the slope of your gutters and make sure they’re draining in the right direction. Gutter repair will get your gutters up and running like normal again.

Your Gutters Are Starting to Pull Away from Your Home

Do your gutters look like they’re about to fall off your home at any second? This is something you should absolutely not ignore.

There are long gutter nails that are used to secure gutters to a home. They usually last for a long time. But if water builds up in your gutters, the added weight can start to pull them away from your home and render your gutter nails useless.

If you ever suspect your gutters might be pulling away from your home for any reason, don’t put off having gutter repair done. The last thing you want to happen is for your gutters to come crashing down toward the ground and break. If this happens, you’ll be forced to invest in brand-new gutters for your home.

There Are Water Stains Inside Your Attic

Every so often, it’s a good idea for you to climb up into your attic to see what kind of condition your roof is in. Your roof could have a leak in it without you even noticing, which can cause water stains and even mold and mildew.

You can also experience water stains and mold and mildew in your attic because of malfunctioning gutters. If your home’s gutters aren’t working properly, they might be allowing water to work its way into your attic space through your roof.

Inspect the wood located under the eaves in your attic. If you see any water staining taking place, it’s time to call a roofing contractor or a gutter contractor right away.

Paint Is Randomly Peeling off the Side of Your Home

Has the paint on a portion of your home randomly started to peel off?

If the paint is on the older side, that could be the reason for it peeling. But if you just had your home painted within the last few years, it could be an indication that water is falling from your gutters, running down the side of your home, and causing your paint to peel.

This could be because your gutters aren’t sloped properly. It could also be because you have a hole in your gutters that’s allowing water to drip down your home.

Either way, you should take a good, long look at why your paint is peeling. Your gutters could very well be to blame.

Hardware from Your Gutters Is Falling Down to the Ground

You might be surprised by how many homeowners find gutter nails and other gutter hardware on their lawns and don’t do anything about it. Many of them aren’t sure of where the hardware came from, so they don’t devote much time or energy to it.

If you ever find nails or other hardware strewn all over your lawn, take action. Get in touch with a gutter contractor to see if you have anything to be worried about. It’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your home’s gutters.

Call a Contractor to Perform Gutter Repair Today

There are many different things that homeowners have to worry about with regards to their homes day in and day out. That’s why it’s easy to overlook the need for something like gutter repair.

But your home’s gutters play a very important part of its overall well-being. So you shouldn’t put off gutter repair under any circumstances if you need to have it done.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment with a gutter contractor.

Generally, a homeowner will spend 1 percent of what their home is worth on maintenance each year. As most experienced homeowners will tell you, this number can fluctuate greatly from year to year.

The key to avoiding serious repair problems is having the vital systems in your home inspected routinely. One of the most important parts of any home is the roof. As time goes by, this part of a home will begin to wear out and will have to be either repaired or replaced.

The best way to find out about roofing problems before they cause significant damage is by paying for a professional roof inspection. Usually, homeowners who attempt to perform this type of inspection will have problems due to their lack of experience.

The following are some of the things a professional will check out when inspecting your home’s roof.

A Roof Inspection Can Determine If a Roof is Sagging

The first thing most professionals will do when hired to inspect a home’s roof is to get a look at it from the ground. By looking at the roof from the ground, a professional can tell if there are any issues with sagging present.

If a roof is sagging, it will usually be caused by issues with water pooling on the surface. The heavier this puddle of water gets, the higher the risk becomes of the roof totally collapsing.

With the help of a roofing contractor, you will be able to figure out what is causing your roof to sag. Once the professionals have pinpointed the cause of this issue, they can address it quickly.

Looking for Signs of Moss or Algae Growth

A roofing professional will also thoroughly inspect a home’s roof for signs of mold or algae development. Generally, these green substances will start to form when there is an issue with moisture.

Leaks and pooling around the gutters are some of the most common causes of mold and algae development. Waiting to fix these leaks can cause you and your family a lot of health problems.

If the mold on the outside of the home gets inside, it can be extremely dangerous. Instead of putting the health of your family in jeopardy, you need to let professionals fix this issue immediately.

Buckled and Curled Shingles

One of the most potentially damaging forces to a home’s roof is the sun. The sun can create a lot of heat in a home’s attic. This heat will cause the shingles on a roof to buckle or curl over time.

If a roofing contractor sees this problem during their inspection, they will probably advise you to replace the damaged shingles. Leaving these shingles in place will eventually lead to leaks forming, which can cause extensive water damage.

While replacing the shingles can be expensive, it is worth the investment. The last thing you want is for the inside of your home to be filled with water due to your hesitation to fix this problem.

Are Shingles Missing From the Roof?

The roof of your home is exposed to direct sunlight for hours on end on a daily basis. This will lead to the shingles on the roof becoming brittle due to being dried out.

All it will take is for a brisk wind to tear these shingles off of your roof. If you have a number of missing shingles on your home, your main goal should be getting them replaced.

The large gaps created by missing shingles will only get worse over time. Allowing a roofing contractor to handle this work can help you avoid further issues with your shingles.

Granule Loss Can Be Problematic

A roofing contractor will also pay close attention to the condition of the granules on your shingles during this inspection. Over time, the granules on your shingles will start to fade away. The more granule loss your roof has, the higher the need will become for more shingles.

If the shingles have no granules on them, they will be unable to protect your home from water. A new roof is expensive, but often times necessary to keep a home damage free.

Are you trying to save money on a new roof? If so, be sure to schedule some onsite estimates with local roofing companies. With the information from these estimates, you should have no problem getting the best price.

Taking a Look at the Flashing

If your home has a chimney or HVAC vents coming out of the roof, these areas will be sealed off with metal flashing. This metal material helps to close any gaps created by holes in the roof.

Just like any other part of a home’s roof, the flashing will eventually wear out. If the flashing is bent up or rusted, a roofing professional will have to replace it immediately.

Not only can damaged flashing cause leaks to occur, it can also damage the vents and fireplaces it is installed around. This is why replacing this worn out material is so important.

Get the Roofing Contractor to Inspect Your Attic

Having your attic inspected is also a great way to discover roofing repair problems early on. If this area is filled with water, a roofing contractor will need to figure out what is causing this issue.

By performing a few diagnostic procedures, a roofing contractor can find the hole in a roof and fix it in no time. With their help, you can save yourself a lot of time and money.

Selecting a Reputable Roofing Contractor

Getting a comprehensive roof inspection is only possible when hiring the right professionals. Researching the various roofing repair companies in an area can help you make this important decision.

Are you in need of a roof inspection or repairs? If so, contact us today to get more information about the roofing services we offer.

The average cost of replacing an asphalt roof is over $20,000.

At that cost, you likely want to hold off on a roof replacement for as long as possible. But will a roof repair be enough to save your roof for a few more years?

While some roof damage is only a matter of replacing shingles, other damage calls for a roof replacement. Knowing the difference can save you time and money both now and in the long run.

Before you decide how you’re going to deal with your roof problems, read this and find out if you can afford to put off your replacement any longer.

Roof Repair or Roof Replacement?

So how do you know when you need a roof repair and when you need a roof replacement? We’ve detailed all of the issues you may experience below. We’ll tell you whether these issues mean you need to repair or replace your roof.

Shingles

Curling, missing, or cracked shingles don’t necessarily warrant a replacement. But you might consider it depending on the extent of the damage.

Curling Shingles

When the edges of your shingles curl upward that’s known as cupping. When the edges of the shingles are flat but the middle pops up, that’s called clawing.

Curling shingles require a roof repair. You can simply replace the cupping or clawing shingles.

If the curling is extensive, you may only have a year left of your roof. But if there are only a few curling shingles, you can probably get another 5 years out of your roof before replacing it.

Missing Shingles

If your roof is missing some shingles, that’s a matter of repair. However, keep in mind that replacing missing shingles with new ones may leave you with a checkboard roof that’s not aesthetically pleasing. It’s nearly impossible to get new shingles that match your old.

Cracked Shingles

If you live in an area that experiences high winds, you may notice that some of your shingles are cracked. Shingles that are cracked as a result of weathering or other one-off instances are okay to replace.

But when you notice that the cracking is occurring randomly throughout the roof, and doesn’t appear to be the result of weather damage, that’s a sign you need to replace your roof. You might be able to stretch it out for another 3-5 years, but you’ll notice more leaks and damage if you wait that long.

Moss or Algae

The good news is, moss or algae on your roof doesn’t mean you have to replace it. Some people choose to replace a roof that’s overrun with moss or algae simply for the aesthetic appeal. But this isn’t necessary.

You can wash away moss or algae with a mix of bleach and water. You may also consider purchasing and installing zinc strips that help fight the growth of these unattractive roof-dwellers.

It’s important that you try to remove the moss or algae properly. Otherwise, you can cause damage. Don’t use a power washer or anything that scrapes away the moss and algae. This will cause the shingles to chip and lead to further damage.

If you decide that you prefer to replace the roof, look for algae and moss-resistant shingles to prevent the problem from reoccurring.

Granules

When shingles are new, loose, extra granules will come off. If your shingles are less than a year old and you find granules in the gutter, they’re nothing to worry about.

Granules in the gutter become a problem when your roof is between 10 and 15 years old. When granules start to flake off, your roof is about halfway through its lifespan. Meaning, you can get another 10 or 15 years out of it before you need to replace it.

Keep an eye on the shingles once this starts to happen. The granules keep sunlight off the asphalt of the shingles and when they start to go, you may experience other roof problems.

Sunlight

If sunlight is leaking into your home from your roof, you can be sure that other things are leaking in as well. That includes rain, cold, snow, as well as insects and other critters.

Check for water stains around the area where light is coming. If they change shape or size after a rainfall, your roof is leaking. To determine whether it needs to be repaired or replaced, you may want to consult a professional.

While smaller leaks can be patched and don’t require a replacement, larger leaks can cause structural damage. Depending on the size of the leak and where it’s leaking onto, a roof replacement can save you more damage in the long run.

Sagging

A sagging roof is generally an indication of structural problems that are not only costly but also dangerous. Sagging could be a problem with the decking or with the foundation. It almost always gets worse if left unfixed.

If your roof is sagging, you probably need a roof repair. When you see your roof begin to sag, it’s time to call a professional.

Your Roof is 25+ Years Old

Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material. These roofs typically last between 20 and 30 years, with an additional 5 to 10 years if you’ve maintained and cared for your roof.

So, when your roof is at or above the 25-year mark, and it starts to show signs of damage, it might be time for a repair.

Do You Need a Roof Replacement or Reroofing?

Choosing between roof repair or roof replacement is a big decision. Considering a new roof can cost upwards of $4,900, you probably want to hold off on a roof replacement for as long as possible. And while issues such as missing shingles and granules in the gutter only require repairs, issues such as sagging call for a replacement.

If you’re still unsure whether you’re in need of a repair or replacement, contact us to schedule your free estimate.

Did you know that the costs of home remodeling continue to rise each year?

The leading reason for replacing parts of your house is when they start to break down and lose structural integrity. Others remodel their homes to update how the place looks.

For example, you replace your roof when you notice the signs of failure and danger. This applies to cheap windows as well.

Some windows can cost about $1,000 per piece. You may want a cheap window replacement instead. However, how do you get affordable windows without sacrificing quality?

Don’t worry, we’ve got several tips for you. Read on and learn how to save without sacrificing its durability or beauty:

1. Look for Contractor or Builder-Grade Windows

Most builders will always look for the commodity windows with the lowest cost. After all, it affects their bottom line in a direct manner. If you want to save a lot of money, you need to do the same.

Always remember that windows with the “architectural grade” will always get expensive. In comparison, replacement windows and other home remodeling materials will stay cheap. It only applies when they’re at builder-grade or contractor-grade.

What this means is that the window meets the bare minimum requirements. Always look out for the big-name companies that sell builder-grade windows. Most of them have the quality to serve your home for decades.

If you doubt builder-grade windows, remember that contractors don’t like callbacks due to defects. What this means is they buy cheap windows that have the quality to last extreme weather conditions. The caveat is that it can get difficult to get them since they’re known by different names.

You can ask builder center clerks for products used by contractors. If you’re lucky enough, you might find windows explicitly marked for contractor use. No matter what the case may be, do your research and know the best builder window brands in the market.

2. Avoid Extra Features

Most window companies offer extra features that buff up your window. They do this out of their desire to widen their profit margin and increase your enjoyment. But always keep in mind that they aren’t required in normal situations.

When picking your replacement windows, you need to check if these features matter to you. Ask yourself, “Are the between-glass shades worth paying extra?” If not, avoid it and only spend your money when it helps improve your overall home experience.

One feature you need to invest in is energy efficiency. Look for the ENERGY STAR label when you buy them to ensure efficiency. If you’re in a colder place, check the U-factor since it offers better thermal resistance to your windows.

3. Negotiate Your Prices

It’s a known fact that window companies and authorized dealers are open for price negotiation. The industry surrounding replacement windows is one of the few sectors of home remodeling where people tolerate and expect price negotiation. The main driving force is the fact that window companies have a steep competition for your attention.

Most of your local window companies have an efficient and honest business practice. They make sure that it permeates from the moment you contact them up until they receive payments. They’re durable businesses that don’t mind compromising for a deal.

The reason they can do this is they have the means to buy the windows at wholesale price. They can sell packages that cover both the window and the installation process. This all works to your benefit, so don’t hesitate and haggle for a better deal.

4. Consider the Cheaper Materials

Wood windows are great and can offer a more premium look for your home. But have you considered using fiberglass or solid vinyl frames? After all, these two materials are the cheapest among all the choices offered by the market.

You might not even tell the difference between wood and fiberglass in the long run. So, it’s important to start asking whether the prestige of solid wood matters to you. If showing your windows off to your visitors isn’t high on your priority, always go for cheaper, sturdier window frame materials.

5. Avoid Authorized Dealers that Sell a Single Brand

These types of dealers limit the competition, hindering you from getting better prices. There are a lot of other window sellers out there that distribute different brands of windows. If you choose a brand-centric dealer, you’re stuck to the deals that brand offers, narrowing down your horizon.

If you want to get a more competitive price and feature choices, go for authorized dealers that don’t focus on one brand. It can help you get common-style windows, making it much cheaper for you. Always choose styles like sliders or fixed windows since they look classic but inexpensive.

6. Use Price Triangulation to Save Money

This is an effective practice where you get three price estimates from different dealers. Once you get it, one estimate will emerge as the lowest. It’s simple and it can save you a lot of money upfront.

You can call three window replacement companies for a visit. Don’t hesitate and tell them you’re doing a bid between the three. That will make them do the math and give you the best price possible.

Once you get all three bids, you’ll always have a low, medium, and high price estimate. If these companies have the same level of reputation, always pick the cheapest.

Get Cheap Windows Today!

Always remember that most window companies always have room to wiggle their prices. It benefits you since you can get them to give you a much better price deal. It’s even better when you try pitting two or more companies against each other in a price bid.

Don’t be shy when you need cheap windows. This will only get you stuck in less-than-ideal deals and spend more for things you don’t want or need. Follow these tips and you’ll find the best window worth the money you spend on.

Do you need a replacement window? Contact us today and we’ll help you out.

Most homeowners’ insurance policies cover damage from roof leaks – EXCEPT when the damaged is caused by lack of maintenance to the roof. In that case, the total cost of repairs is the homeowner’s responsibility.

Could it be time to repair or replace your home’s roof? There are several easy-to-spot signs you need a new roof. Read on to learn more about the seven most common signs that it’s time to call a roofer.

Factors That Age Your Roof

Other than time, three main factors can shorten the lifespan of your roof. The more you can address these factor, the longer your roof will last.

Precipitation

Rain is a destructive force. The more precipitation your area receives, the faster a roof will break down. Regardless of the material your roof is made of, moisture causes shakes and shingles to retain water.

They become waterlogged. It also causes metal roofs to rust.

No one can control the weather. Though, you can keep your gutters clean. Do so keeps water from pooling on your roof. Rain has less opportunity to steep into your shingles.

Do you live in northern states where the winters bring snow and ice? Once the snow melts, check your roof and gutters. Winter may have left its mark, which calls for repairs before Spring arrives.

You can also schedule a roof inspection every year or two. An experienced roofer can spot trouble areas and recommend ways to limit the opportunity for water damage.

The Sun

Sunlight is no friend to your roof, either. Asphalt shingles and wooden shakes are especially susceptible. Sunlight dries out roofing materials. The more sunlight, the more damage. As your roof dries out, it begins to lose structural integrity.

You can coat some types of roofing to protect it from harsh sunlight. The coating is reflective and keeps the roof from absorbing heat. Repairing any minor damage helps in this area as well.

Again, having a roofer check your roof annually helps you keep minor issues from becoming more significant problems.

Adverse Effects of a Damaged Roof

If your roof is damaged or worn out, you’ll find that your energy bills are rising. Roofs are a form of insulation. They prevent the cold and heat from coming into your home.

When the roof goes bad, cold and heat can make their way in with little to no resistance. Your heat and air conditioning system then must work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature.

Signs You Need a New Roof

The rest of this article contains seven telltale signs you have a bad roof. In some cases, a partial replacement of shingles is enough. For some others, a full roof replacement is your best option.

1. Age of Your Roof

A standard roof lasts between 20 and 25 years. If your roof has already been replaced once, you should know whether it was replaced entirely. Often, homeowners replace only the shingles.

The roof must also be adequately ventilated. If a new roof was installed over another layer (sometimes even several layers), you might need to start over. If the existing roof is over 20 years old, you most likely need a new roof now.

2. Buckling and Curling Shingles

Buckling and curling shingles are signs that you need a new roof. Look at the slopes of your home that receive the most direct sunlight.

If you see any shingles curling and losing granules, the shingles are most likely past their life expectancy. They may also appear frayed at the edges.

Curled or buckled shingles may be a sign of exposure to sunlight and moister. No replacing curled shingles means your home isn’t insulated properly. Moisture, cold, and heat are seeping through your roof and into your home.

Your roof could also be defective, especially if it’s not that old. A professional roofing contractor would be able to see if you’re eligible for any reimbursement.

3. Damaged Roof Valleys

It almost goes without saying that you need a new roof if the shingles are deteriorated or missing in the roof valleys.

Valleys have a particular function. Rain and snow flow through the valleys and into the gutters. If the valley is damaged, you are at high risk for roof leaks.

4. Cracked or Missing Shingles

Cracked or missing shingles are obvious signs that your roof is failing.

Cracked Shingles

A cracked shingle is one that is severely deteriorated. You can check to see if the shingle tabs are still intact. If the shingles are indeed cracked, they are past the expiration date by a few years at least.

Cracked shingles on your roof allow moisture to seep into the roof’s wooden structure. It also allows cold and heat to seep into your attic, as well.

Missing Shingles

Shingles that are altogether missing from your roof are an open door for heat, moisture, and cold are to make their way into your home.

You may not need to replace the entire roof. Depending on the number of missing shingles, you may only need to replace those few. In that case, a partial replacement gets the job down.

If you are missing shingles over a large area, chances are the rest of them are going bad, as well. A full roof replacement is in order.

5. Chimney Flashing

Around the chimney is another area to watch. If your flashing contains tar or roof cement, it needs to be replaced after a time. You’ll want to replace it with a water-tight fitting designed to last for an extended time.

Replacing flashing on the roof with metal flashing is in order here. Metal flashing is both watertight and long-lasting.

6. Loose Shingle Granules

Loose granules from the shingles is a sign of deterioration. Check your gutters. If you see shingle granules, your shingles have reached the end of their lifecycle.

Also, if some parts of the roof are darker than others, the cause is lost granules. The inconsistent color on your roof is a strong indication your roof needs replacing.

7. Daylight Through the Roof Boards

When installed correctly, new roofs prevent light from coming through to the attic. If you see daylight coming from the roof into your attic, you have a problem. If your home is new, there may be some kind of defect.

If your home is older, light in the attic is an indication that something else is wrong. If you are able to climb onto the roof, chances are you will feel a bounce when walking on your roof.

That spongy feel means the decking beneath is weakened from moisture. There may even be moisture in the insulation.

Check your home’s attic to see if there is any light coming through the roof boards. Also, check for moisture in the insulation. These are also signs of a roof leak. If daylight can get it, so can rainwater.

Light in the attic means your roof is at least in need of repair. Most of the time, it means your roof is in need of replacement.

Time to Call a Professional Roofer

If you have surveyed your roof and found one or more signs you need a new roof, it’s time to call a professional. The time to repair or replace a bad roof is always right now before you start having roof leaks.

If you are in the Indianapolis area, please contact us with questions. We can inspect your roof and recommend the best solution for your home.

When people talk about a “roof over your head” the funny thing is their not necessarily talking about an actual roof. It’s usually a euphemism for shelter or a home.

But a roof is arguably the most important part of your shelter. It’s what literally keeps you safe and protected, so why is it that when building a new home we don’t pay enough attention to them?

We’re certainly busy calculating square footage, picking out paint colors, rugs, etc., but what about choosing roof styles? Today, we’ll take a look at five common roof styles and show you the pros and cons of each to help you make a better decision.

1. Gable Roofs

When you were in elementary school did you draw pictures of homes? If so, it was probably a box with a door, windows, and a triangle on top.

That’s a gable roof.

It’s simply a roof with one pitch in the center and two slopes down either side of the house. It’s probably one of the most common residential roof styles around – at least in the United States – but it’s not perfect.

We’ll go over some gable roof advantages and disadvantages.

Pros

The gable roof is one of the most common roof designs around, so one benefit is that it’s an affordable option. If your budget isn’t bursting at the seams, this might be a good option to consider.

That doesn’t mean it’s poor quality, though. The slopes of a gable mean that it sheds water, snow, sleet, and other precipitation very well.

If you live in a particularly rainy area, you’ll be happy to know that you’ll have no problem with drainage. This tall roof also allows for more attic space or higher, vaulted ceilings indoors.

This makes it a good option for people who live in areas where it’s difficult or impossible to build a basement. You’ll want that extra attic storage.

Cons

The biggest downside to a gable roof is that it is susceptible to high winds and hurricane conditions. Strong winds can create uplift and potentially separate the roof from the walls.

Therefore, when working with a builder, you want to have one who is able to foresee roof damage and danger and help you make the right decision.

2. Flat Roof

Can you guess what shape this roof is? We sure hope so.

That being said, a flat roof is a flat surface that does happen to have a slight pitch to it. It’s usually just enough to allow run-off and drainage of water, snow, sleet, and other elements.

You usually see this style on business and industrial buildings, but it definitely shows up in residential designs from time to time. It can certainly create a unique and alluring look.

Pros

What’s the biggest advantage of flat top designs? Extra living space.

Don’t underestimate the power and beauty of a rooftop garden, patio, or suite. Plus, this space can be used for heating and cooling units, clearing up your lawn and the sides of your house from clutter.

Not to mention, these options are usually quite cheap due to their simple design.

If you’re an environmentally conscious homeowner, a flat roof is perfect for laying solar panels. Make your home more energy efficient and even qualify for tax credits!

Cons

With flat roofs, you need to be careful about water damage and leakage. The slight pitch allows for some run-off and drainage, but flat roofs aren’t perfect in this regard.

3. Hip Roof

No, a hip roof isn’t some young, cool, has-it-all-together roof design, it’s a roof that has slopes on all four sides at the same length and a ridge on top.

These are often a top competitor to the gable roof for people building a new home or updating their roof. Just like that style, though, the hip comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages.

Pros

Most notably, the hip roof is more stable and secure than the gable roof. This is an excellent option for people in high wind areas, especially areas that see frequent hurricane activity every year.

This design also allows for some extra living space in the form of a dormer or a crow’s nest.

Cons

Hip roofs are more complex than other roofs on this list, so they may be a tad more expensive to build. They require more effort on the designer and builders part, too.

4. Skillion Roof

A skillion roof is a single slope roof that is attached to two sides of the home, one taller than the other. Think of it like a slanted flat roof design.

You’ll often see this design on sheds, but it is used in residential homes as well, especially in modern styles.

Pros

The skillion roof is easy to assemble and doesn’t use as much material as other roof designs. This makes it relatively easy to build and therefore rather affordable.

Between the skillion and the flat roof, it seems like modern home designs are both affordable and aesthetically interesting.

Cons

Skillion roofs can have issues with condensation build up due to lack of ventilation.

5. Sawtooth Roof

A sawtooth roof consists of two or more single slanted pitches that alternate in direction creating a unique and varied look. Similar to flat roofs, this is another design that was primarily used in industrial buildings but is used for residential purposes now.

Pros

Where you would normally have a roof with your attic, a sawtooth roof allows for higher windows, allowing more natural and beautiful sunlight.

The slanted roofs also allow for high, vaulted ceilings. This combined with the vertical windows you can now use make for a very alluring aesthetic that will make your house seem large.

Cons

A sawtooth roof requires a lot of materials to build. It’s also a much more complex design and is, therefore, a more expensive option.

It may be beautiful to some people, but it might be a little too extravagant or “out of the norm” for others.

Making the Right Choice with Roof Styles

When you’re building a house, there are so many things to have fun with. There are so many exciting options to consider, but don’t skimp on the roof. Choosing from the right roof styles is an important step of the process.

And if you’re repairing or updating your home, then it’s a great opportunity to have some fun and give yourself a change. If you need help deciding on a new roof design or need some roof maintenance or repair, contact us right away!