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Roofing, Siding, Guttering and Solar info and topical blog - Capital Region NY

What is Safe to Attach to a Shingle Roof?

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From satellite dishes to security cameras there are many home accessories that you may want to attach to the roof of your home. It is always a good idea to consult with your local roofing contractors before nailing anything into your roof. You can increase the risk of roof leaks if you try and attach something without professional guidance. The makers of these home accessories may not fully understand roofing materials and not warn against the attachment. We will help you better understand the do’s and don’ts of common items that you might be thinking about attaching to your roof, and also where these items should really be hung.

Can I nail into my roof?   

The whole point to a quality roofing system is designed to keep water out of your home. There are many components of a quality roofing system which include an underlayment, ice and water protection, shingles and flashing. Together all of these layers put down by your local roofing contractor, forces water into your gutters and away from your home. Driving even just a single nail into your roof can compromise the entire roofing system. That single nail will penetrate through the shingles, to the underlayment creating a hole in your roof. The next time it rains water can enter that small hole and bypass each layer laid down by your roofing contractor, and trickle down into your attic. All from just a single nail you may have yourself a small leak, and even small leaks can cause major issues for your home. 

Your certified roofing contractor uses plenty of nails while installing your new roofing system, but this is done in a specific way so that each nail is covered by the shingle above it. Each shingle needs to lay flat against your roof in order to work properly, even a nail not driven all the way through can cause problems. The nail will prop the shingle up slightly letting in more than enough water to cause a leak, if your roofing contractor adds another nail beneath the shingle it will lay flat. 

Common home accessories

Can I attach an antenna to my roof?

We always suggest that you consult your local roofing contractor to attach anything to your roof, even a small antenna. In order to properly mount an antenna to your roof without damaging it the antenna needs to be attached to the gable, the fascia, or chimney. A non penetrating mount can also be used that manipulates the use of weights rather than screws to be held in place. There are many options available to  mount your antenna that does not require being nailed or screwed into your roof. A free standing antenna in your backyard, or a bracket that attaches to another part of your roofing system is a better choice. Always check with your roofing contractor if the bracket provided is appropriate for its use and your roofing system.

Can I mount a security camera on my roof? 

Most home security cameras are not attached directly to the roof and manufacturers do not recommend it. Although most surveillance cameras are weatherproof, snow and high winds can decrease their lifespan. If your security camera was sitting on top of your roof and 5 inches of snow came, it would be buried and no help to you. Inclement weather will also distort its view or leave water droplets on the lens making its image blurry. 

Manufacturers suggest mounting your surveillance camera to the soffit of your quality roofing system. The soffit is located directly underneath the roof’s eave. Although the soffit is constructed from wood, the bottom layer is usually aluminum or vinyl which has vents to allow your attic to breathe. To properly secure the security camera to the base of the soffit it must be fastened through the vinyl/aluminum and onto the wooden truss. The vinyl or aluminum is not strong enough to hold the camera and it may fall out over time.

Can I attach flower baskets to my roof? 

While flower baskets are beautiful and add to your homes curb appeal, you should never attach flower baskets to your roof or soffit. You may see some flower baskets hanging by a chain from the soffit of a home, this is not wise unless the chain is connected to a structural component of your quality roofing system. Your roofing contractor can properly attach your baskets to the chain without causing damage. The vinyl or aluminum part of the soffit of your roof can not handle the weight that comes with hanging a flower basket. It is important to remember that each time you add water to your flowers its weight increases. Special brackets are available that are placed in different areas of your home like on porch railings, fence posts or the sides of walls that are durable like brick. 

Can I attach a pergola to my shingle roof?

You might be interested in adding a backyard structure that attaches to your roof such as a pergola, it is more complicated than you may think. Before attaching anything to your roof, always consult with your trusted local roofing contractor first. Like we explained previously, nailing into shingles can cause damage or leaks. There are other options available to you like a free standing pergola or structure that is close enough to your home, without having to drill or nail into your roof. 

Can I attach solar panels to my roof?

Solar panels can be installed to your shingle roof only by a trained roofing contractor or solar specialist. It is important to note that if you chose to install solar panels yourself and leaks were caused by its anchor points, this will not be covered by your shingle limited warranty. 

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Can I attach Christmas Decorations?

There is nothing more magical than driving around your neighborhood around Christmas time and seeing all the beautiful light and decorations. If you are eager to contribute to the Christmas spirit it is important to know the appropriate way to hang your decorations. We advise that you do not attempt to hang any decorations when there is ice or snow visible or wet weather conditions. It is imperative to follow safety guidelines when walking on your roof to avoid the risk of damaging the shingles. If you choose to add large decorations to your roof it is best to consult with your roofing consultant on how to do so.  Special clips are made so that no screws or nails are necessary to hang lights from your roof. 


HOW TO USE & MAINTAIN A GREEN ROOF TO SUPPORT THE ENVIRONMENT

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A green roof or “living roof” is a growing trend which offers visually stunning features that also expands your outdoor square footage. Green roofs are designed to absorb heavy rainfall, reduce flooding and also, extend the life of your roof by protecting it from all of the outside elements. The most important feature of an environmentally friendly roof is that it insulates your home by reducing the temperature inside and helping the environment!

You may choose to put a living roof on your home for environmental purposes, the first thing you will want to do is find a local roofing company and green roof supplier to help you design and install your green roof properly. There are many features to a living roof that cannot be added once it is installed for depth reasons, so it is important to fully design what you want with your local roofing company.

Some things to carefully consider while planning out your green roof are, the types of plants you’re interested in having, how much added weight from the soil and moisture will be retained, and the climate your home is in. If your home is in a climate that goes through all of the seasons then it is important to consider the added weight of snowfall on top of what you are adding to your living roof.

What are the benefits of having a green roof?

Green roofs promote environmental health and local biodiversity by combining these unique features to reduce energy from greenhouse gas emissions. By choosing native or endangered species types of plants to put on your living roof, you will also provide food for bugs and other animals along with a habitat. Another benefit to a green roof is its ability to soak up storm-water and reduce the impact on animal habitats without flooding during heavy rain. Absorption of storm-water is filtered through soil, replenishes aquifers and flows back into streams and rivers which ultimately improves water quality.

An environmentally friendly roof is not only limited to housing endangered or native plants, you can also create a home for bees! If you are interested in cultivating homegrown honey then you’re in luck, our local roofing experts say that it’s no problem to house beehives on your green roof. Always be sure that you’re checking with your local roofing company to check weight limits and not exceed structural load limits. It is also important to check out any local by laws that pertain to regulating and maintaining beehives in your area.

Farming on a living roof:

Growing not only a variety of wild plants on your living roof, but also the produce you eat is another amazing benefit to a green roof. Planning is the most important step when deciding what you want to grow and what type of support it will need. If you want to grow large and tall plants be sure to let your local roofing contractor know ahead of time so he can better help your architect or structural engineer with the design.

Costs associated with having a living roof:

People are not interested in putting a green roof on their home because they are looking to save money, these people are intrigued by its environmental impact and aesthetic appeal. Having an environmentally friendly roof will have more costs associated with it and maintenance that is ongoing. Landscaping is an added cost that most people already take on for their homes and a living roof is no different, trimming plants and watering everyday are a required upkeep. You may not be able to do all the maintenance yourself because it is up on your roof, certain equipment and tools are required. It is recommended to consider exactly what type of maintenance you’ll need for your living roof and consult with your local roofing contractor and green roof supplier for more information.

How often does your green roof need watering?

This answer depends on many factors, the type of plants you have chosen and the climate that you live in will all yield different answers.  Drought resistant roof plants such as sedums can last long periods of time without being watered, compared to flowers and produce vegetables which will need much more attention. Trimming your plants like watering is another required task, whether it be mowing the surrounding grass or tending to moss. A professional landscaper can advise you on the exact maintenance you can expect for your environmentally friendly roof.  

Protecting your living roof in the winter:

Planting the types of plant species that can withstand the environment of your green roof so you won’t have to make preparations in the winter time, will save a lot of time and stress. Your local environment will determine which plants are appropriate. Even if you love the look of sedums it’s important to know how they’ll handle the freezing temperatures, and same with warmer weathered climates. Cold weather perennials wouldn’t last in the warmer climate, so do some research to find the best types of plants for your living roof.

Maintenance

  1. Clearing drains & gutters: During the winter months moisture accumulates on your roof and after the snow and ice melts a large amount of stress is put upon the roof. If the drainage system is not efficiently working water will begin to seem through the weakest points. Inspecting gutters and drains regularly will save you time and money in the long run. 
  2. Snow removal: Depending on your area you may get more or less snow, as snow begins to collect on your roof it should be designed so that the load is evenly spread out. The best method of snow removal on your green roof is a simple shoveling; so you do not ruin or disrupt your plants.
  3. Waterproofing: When you are working with your local roofing contractor you can explain to them how important waterproofing will be for your green roof. From the summers of constant watering and rainfall to the winters of snow melting, you will need to make sure all precautions are taken so you roof does not leak. Making a check list to inspect the caulking to make sure everything is sealed properly, check surrounding areas for water & wind erosion, and deterioration from exposure to the outside elements. 

Dealing with repairs on a green roof:  

Unlike shingled asphalt roofs that are constantly exposed to the elements, a green roof is not exposed so repairs are not frequently necessary. It is necessary for your environmentally friendly to have a root barrier which acts like a waterproof membrane to reduce the likelihood of needing to make repairs.

SHOULD YOU GET A NEW ROOF BEFORE YOU SELL YOUR CURRENT HOME AND WILL A NEW ROOF INCREASE YOUR HOMES VALUE?

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When you are looking to buy or sell your home a new roof replacement is a great marketing tool. Buyers will appreciate a new roof because they know the average roof will last about 20-30 years. When purchasing a new house comes a lot of unexpected expenses, most new home buyers can’t handle another large expense like a new roof replacement on top of a down payment. Some clients may not even attempt to put an offer in on the home if they know it needs a new roof replacement.


How does a new roof affect home value?

You will need to figure out some key factors to see how much a new roof replacement will increase the value of your home such as, your roof condition, the real estate market, and feedback from potential buyers. With our experience we have gathered information on how a roof replacement will add value to your home, which factors will make it a smart investment, or even how it may reduce the value. If after reading this you decide that a new roof replacement is worth it and will allow you to get top dollar for your home, we invite you to explore our shingle collection and your options.

There are many studies that have been done on how much value a new roof will add to your home, one of which stated that the average homeowner will spend around $22,500 on a midrange roof. This new roof replacement would add an increase to the home value of about $15,500, this works out to be about a 68% investment.

Another study that was conducted by NARI (National Association of the Remodeling Industry) concluded a much larger percent return of 109%. This would mean you would make a profit on your new roof replacement. Putting on a new roof is clearly a smart investment, but how would you know if a roof replacement will generate a 60% return or if it will bump-up your current home value? The three major factors that will help you answer this question are: The housing market in your area, the condition of your current roof, and the type of roof replacement that you choose.

  1. The Housing Market Conditions in Your Area: A roof replacement doesn’t always increase home value in every market. The best thing to firstly do is get some advice from a real estate agent and a local appraiser, they can help you understand the market conditions. Even if you don’t see a huge financial return, a new roof will more likely get you smoother negations, lower time on the market, and even a full price offer.
  2. Another factor to consider is the condition of your existing roof: Keeping your roof in good condition is one of the most important things you can do in maintain your home. It can be very unattractive to a potential buyer and may make them question what else you have not maintained in your home. Most home buyers expect the roof to be in good condition and if it is not they will likely pass on submitting an offer, or give a low ball offer. After purchasing a new home few people have the money or energy to have to undergo extensive repairs or a full roof replacement.  

When you or the potential buyer get the home appraised they will undoubtedly notice the condition of your roof and will reduce your home’s value, depending on how mild to sever the damage is. However if your existing roof is only between 5-10 years old and in decent condition, a roof replacement may not benefit you much.

3. Choosing the right type of roof replacement can make all the difference: Your choice between different types of shingles, a metal roof, or slate will impact the return you receive on your new roof. Asphalt and Architectural; shingles range from $50-$80 per square, a Metal roofing system ranges between $100-300 per square, and slate coming in at a whopping $300-600 per square. Each type of roofing system has its own attributes and it’s up to you which one best fits your needs.

Something important to consider when choosing a roof replacement and other home renovations is the type of neighborhood you live in. In general you need to match your neighbored dynamic, there is no point in investing in luxury home features if no other home in your neighborhood has them. It is unlikely to get a full return on designer shingles if all you neighbors have less expensive shingles, your home value will not raise much above your neighbors.

On the other hand, if you live in an upscale neighborhood where many of the homes have metal roofs or high-end shingles it might be expected to keep up. Higher-end shingles will match to style of the homes exterior and interior materials used in many cases, and buyers can be discouraged by traditional cheaper shingles.

Will a Metal Roof Increase Home Value?

On average a metal roof coats around $38,000 dollars compared to a shingled roof of about $22,500. When looking at Saratoga roofing contractor’s home values increase percentage, a metal roof brought in a return of 60% and a shingle roof return of 68%.  These numbers of course are just an average, you may get a full return on your investment. When considering a metal roof it is important to know how much it will increase home value and consider how a potential buyer will view it.

Is a new roof a good selling tool?

Although a new roof won’t skyrocket you home value, it can still help you sell your home much quicker and at a higher price. Any local roofing company will tell you that a new roof is a highly effective selling tool. In a recent NARI report 32% of realtors used the fact that a new roof replacement was done to the home to finalize the sale. Buyers are very attracted to houses with a new roof because they know it will save them time and money in the long run without any major issues or repairs.  Can you spot the difference?

Keep in mind that potential buyers are looking for a well maintained exterior of a house, this usually gives insight to what the interior of the house looks like also. Even if it is not the most accurate reflection of the interior of the house, buyers will assume your roof reflects the investments you’ve made on the inside as well.  

How to deal with animals in your roof vents and attics

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roof critters

Maybe you’ve heard an animal in the attic scratching at night?

In North America we are home to variety of wildlife that sometimes make their way into your roof vents and attics. Some common types of animals that make their way into your home include raccoons on the roof, birds squeezing into exhaust vents, squirrels nesting in the attic and other critters that you would much rather see in nature rather than your home.

How do I get rid of an animal in my attic or roof? In this article we’ll answer many questions you may have regarding how to get rid of these pests and keep them out.

The first question you most likely have is, how to know if you have an uninvited animal guest in the first place without consulting a local roofing contractor first? You will most likely hear the tiny scurrying of the animal across your ceiling from above or even see or smell its presence. Animals are often looking for a warm cozy place to nest during mating season in the spring months, especially in northern climates.  

How can animals get through roof vents or into your attic?

Some signs of entry for pests include:

  • Gaps in between the fascia and the eaves
  • Open chimneys
  • Loose fascia
  • Missing shingles
  • Holes in the siding

Once an animal is inside of your home there are some common signs to look for such as:

  • Nests or hives
  • Droppings or urine marks
  • Chewed wires or pipes
  • Torn insulation or air ducts

How do I squirrel proof my roof?

During the day squirrels are the most active critter that may cause havoc in your home, while at night nocturnal animals such as raccoons and bats are more prevalent. There is a distinctive difference in the tread sounds of squirrels, mice and rats compared to those of larger animals like raccoons which are much slower and heavy. Their sounds may be heard from overhead in the attic, ceiling, in between walls, exhaust vents or inside of chimneys. Trimming tree branches that hang close to your roof will prevent squirrels from gaining access to your home. Squirrels can jump from more than 10ft away so be sure to cut enough of the limb.  

Potential damage can be done by not only mammals but other common infestations like insects, termites or cockroaches. We recommend that you always consult with a professional in pest control or a local roofing contractor to remove uninvited animals or pests from your home as it can be dangerous. A well trained animal specialist can remove the problem in a safe and effective manner while following the bylaws of the protected species.

Bees and Wasps:

These tiny tenants like to hive in your attic or outside in the corners of porches or decking. In the summer months bees and wasps are less likely to make a home in your attic because of the temperatures reaching up to 180 degrees F. The wax in a honeybee hive melts at 130 degrees F so it’s more likely to see their hives on the perimeter of your home than inside. Once a hive is detected it is important to have it safely removed so your and your family do not get stung, especially if there is an allergy in your family.

Mice and rats

How do I keep mice out of my roof vents?

Among the most common pests in a household include mice, rats or other rodents. Garbage and clutter attract these rodents but even if your home is very clean they will still seek shelter and a source for food. In the fall into winter months rodents look for shelter indoors to escapes the cold and nest. They reproduce very quickly in large numbers so it’s important to take care of the problem when you first see the signs.

These pests enter your home at ground level and can squeeze through the smallest of cracks, once they have broken inside they travel between walls through your entire house. Rodents become dangerous because they like to chew things including wires, wood, insulation, piping and even concrete; resulting in property damage and creating a fire hazard. Some ways to prevent an infestation of mice is by sealing off small holes around the exterior of your house and inspecting your vents for small openings. If you do find small gaps cover with mesh to prevent the rodents from slipping through.

Birds and Bats

If you have found a bird in your home or nesting up in the attic it is not an uncommon occurrence. In the summer birds and bats can easily enter your home through a window or door that has been left open or even slip through a gap between siding, finding its way to your attic to nest. These animals like dry, private spaces where they will be unbothered and protected from predators.

 If a bat colony has formed in your attic it is best to deal with immediately because of their guano deposits. Not only does this give off an abrasive odor but the acidity levels make the material highly corrosive to building materials, wood, and insulation. Bats can also gain access to your home through extremely small spaces which make your home vulnerable to an infestation.

Birds on the other hand like to make nests in heating pipes and exhaust vents to capture the warmth which acts as an incubator. This might sound harmless but their droppings can attract cockroaches and other insects.

Does bird poop affect shingles?

Bird droppings contain uric acid which damages your roof, asphalt shingles are even more susceptible. The acid within the droppings dissolves the asphalt and also provides nutrients which encourages algae growth or moss.

Raccoons

Related to the panda bear, raccoons look cute and friendly but possess the power to rip shingles right from your roof, breaking into the soffit and fascia. Some entry points can leave large holes which snow and rain can penetrate that cause serious weather damage to your home. Chewing through insulation and wires risking a fire hazard also poses a problem.

“An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”-Benjamin Franklin

There are many options available to aide you in prevention of keeping animals out of your attic and roof vents. It is always best to consult with a local roofing contractor and animal removal specialist service to humanely remove any animal infestations.

A local roofing contractor can:

  • Help seal any holes or gaps that are potential entry points at roof or ground level
  • Replace missing or old shingles and repair holes in fascia or soffit
  • Use gutter guards to keep out squirrels
  • Install spikes along eaves which deter birds from roosting on your roof
  • Install mesh or other metal to cover large openings around chimney, ridge vents or gable

What is roofing underlayment?

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Roof Underlayment

Your roof is one of the most important features when it comes to your home. It helps with your home’s curb appeal, as well as keeping you warm and dry. It also protects your home from getting damaged by hail and other rough weather conditions.  But underneath your home’s asphalt or architectural shingles is something that’s even more important to keeping your home safe and secure: your roof’s underlayment!

Is underlayment necessary for roofs?

When your local roofing company installs architectural or asphalt shingles on your roof, during the installation they do not simply nail the shingles onto the wooden roof deck. If your local roofing company were to nail the shingles directly onto these sheets of wood, if there were any kind of damage to the shingles, water would be given the opportunity to seep into the substrate and cause damage to your roof structure. This would potentially lead to rot, mold and interior leaks.

Shingle underlayments provide a barrier between the roof frame material and your home’s shingles. Making the right decision for your home can extend the life of your roof and minimize the need for maintenance and repairs. 

Felt roofing underlayment

If you’re deciding to go on the cheaper route, go with the underlayment that is made up of felt that’s saturated with asphalt in order to make it water resistant. Roof felt underlayment can vary in price depending on its degree of saturation; since asphalt is its more expensive component, the more asphalt it contains, the more durable and expensive it will be. Often, felt roof underlayment also contains fiberglass reinforcement, which increases its strength and durability. Over time however, even the highest quality asphalt will eventually wear down and become penetrable by water. 

Roof felt underlayment is usually a good option for steeply sloped roofs, which allows water to quickly run off. However standing water is able to seep into it and infiltrate your roof’s structure. Felt underlayment is also vulnerable to sun damage, which accelerates deterioration of the asphalt, so it’s not the best choice for roofs that get a lot of direct sunlight. Felt as well lacks the overall quality, durability and total water resistance. Therefore, if you’re installing a long lasting roofing material like high quality architectural shingles or extremely durable options like stone coated steel roofing, a felt underlayment would not be recommended. 

Hot applied rubberized asphalt membrane

With good reason, most professional local roofing contractors would not recommend a hot applied roofing membrane. However, many property owners still go choose them for their property. Asphalt can be polymer modified with bitumen, a viscous mixture of hydrocarbons, which gives it rubber or plastic-like properties. The hot applied rubberized asphalt membrane is applied in large panels which are bonded together or heat fused into one seamless membrane. Due to its flexible and elastic nature, it is able to fill in space around nails or staples, bridge cracks in the substrate surface, and conform to surface irregularities.

This type of underlayment is better suited for high temperature climates than felt. Another benefit is that it is able to resist moisture penetration, because there are no seams for water infiltration. Because of this, it is also better for use on flat roofs or other roofs where there is a danger of water pooling. Rubberized asphalt membrane underlayment contains materials that can resist expansion and contraction as well as reflecting harmful UV rays. This makes it more durable and longer lasting than felt. However, installation is problematic and overheating can compromise the integrity and longevity of the membrane. Not heating the product enough will also cause serious problems as the layers will not be able to form a proper bond. This makes proper installation a careful balancing act and something you definitely a task you would not want to entrust to your average local roofing contractors.

Synthetic Roof Membrane

Synthetic roof underlayment is similar to a hot applied rubberized asphalt membrane underlayment in design, but its composition is a synthetic rubber or thermoplastic rather than bituminized asphalt. Also, being fully waterproof there is also an added highly protective layer of insulation between your roof frame and shingles. Incongruously, it is also more breathable, allowing humidity to escape while resisting water penetration.

Synthetic underlayment effectively protects against wind, rain, and ice, helping to prevent ice dams and water leaks no matter the roof slope. A synthetic membrane is durable, long- lasting, lightweight, fungus resistant, and also highly reflective of direct UV radiation. Overall, this type of roof underlayment receives better safety ratings than the alternatives.

Synthetic roof underlayments are made from engineered materials such as polypropylene or polyester. Felt is sometimes referred to as organic when it contains some organic materials, as well as being saturated with asphalt. 

 Fire Resistance Ratings

On the topic of safety, another important factor to consider when choosing an underlayment is its fire resistance rating. Most underlayments have similar protection from smoke, however flame protection can differ when it comes to the roofing material. Underlayment products are rated A, B, or C, with A being the most and C being the least fire resistant. Depending on your area’s level of risk, a more highly rated underlayment could significantly decrease your home’s vulnerability to fire caused by lightning striking your home.

The price differences between underlayment options usually add up to a few hundred dollars in your overall roof replacement project. If you are investing in a high quality roof that will improve your home’s value for years to come, choosing a better quality, more durable, water-resistant underlayment may well be worth the extra cost.

Temporary Protection

Roof underlayment can act as a temporary protection of the building’s interior and the roof deck before the final roof covering material is installed. Usually, the roof covering material would be installed right away, however in some circumstances a roof might be protected by just the roof underlayment for days, weeks, or sometimes months. Protecting the building interior is especially important when an old roof covering material is being replaced and the home interior is finished. During that time, the underlayment may be under attack from weather elements such high winds, UV radiation, and precipitation. It also needs to resist the wear and tear that occurs when the roof covering material is being installed. 

Preventing chemical degradation

Underlayment provides a layer that separates the roof sheathing and the roof covering material. Newer homes use plywood or an engineered panel called oriented strand board for sheathing. For many years, pine and fir boards were used as sheathing, and many older homes still have these kinds of boards in place. Resin pockets in these boards can react chemically with some roof covering materials, such as asphalt shingles. In these situations, missing underlayment can cause accelerated deterioration and premature failure of the roof covering material. 

Is synthetic roof underlayment better than felt?

Asphalt-saturated felt is a blend of cellulose, polyester, bitumen, and asphalt, soaked in a waterproofing agent. It comes in two thicknesses. Thirty pound felt is more thick and stiff than fifteen pound, so thirty pound is more resistant to damage during installation and can protect the roof longer if exposed to outside elements like rain, wind, hail, and snow. Asphalt-saturated felt underlayments are semi-permeable and typically have a perm rating of five to seven.

Most synthetics on the other hand are spun or woven from either polypropylene or polyethylene. The specific manufacturing process produces synthetic underlayments with different properties such as the thickness, exposure time, and resistance to damage during the installation process. Like asphalt saturated felt, comparisons between synthetic underlayments are by weight . However, synthetic underlayments utilize grams per square as their measurement.

What is the best underlayment for your roof?

Synthetic underlayment is much lighter than felt underlayment. Therefore, using synthetic will add less weight to the roof than any asphalt felt underlay. Synthetic underlay is also far more tear-resistant when exposed to high winds and foot traffic than asphalt felt underlayment. Many synthetics also have a higher UV protection rating and can be left exposed on a roof for a far longer period than felt underlay.  However, you will find that synthetic roof underlay is the more expensive option. When it comes down to it, sometimes you might be limited by your budget. However, if you have the extra money for a synthetic roof underlayment installation, you will likely see the extra you spend returned through the extra long-term lifespan of your roof and lower long-term repair and maintenance costs.

Can Synthetic underlayment get wet?

There are several components to a shingle roofing system, each playing an important role in keeping your house protected. The shingles are the first line of defense and add to the overall look of the home. The underlayment provides another layer of protection. The decking or sheathing provides stability to those top two layers, while the rafters and trusses hold everything up. Of those components, only the shingles are designed to get wet for long periods of time. That is one of their primary jobs, after all. But what about the other parts of the roof? Especially during a roof installation when the weather isn’t so cooperative? Will wet conditions ruin the whole job? The answer is, it depends on how much the rain and for what duration. However, once the underlayment is installed, the roof is protected.

Underlayment is an added layer of protection for your roof. The shingles do the heavy lifting, but if water managed to get under the shingles, the waterproof underlayment is there to protect the decking underneath. Now the question remains, can roof underlayment itself protect the roof when it’s raining? The answer would be for a couple of days at the most. Underlayment is installed much like the shingles themselves. Your local roofing company would overlap the edges to make sure every inch of the roof is covered, however that is not enough to stand up for a whole winter and water would start to penetrate between the layers all too quickly.

Anatomy of a Roof

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Anatomy of a Roof

Most homeowners never really get up close to their roof and try to understand the inner workings of it. So for many, a roof is just a roof, and it keeps the weather out of homes as well as keeping away any animals from flying or crawling into our homes. If we notice anything about a roof, we only notice how well it blends into the neighborhood, or when a branch has fallen on the roof and needs to be removed. The fact of the matter is that the roof above your head is possibly the most expensive thing you’ll ever have to replace on your home. Therefore, the question is do you ever wonder about the parts of a roof and what is installed underneath the shingles?

Aren’t Shingles Enough?

When your local roofing contractor installs shingles, the new roof installation should always be done in accordance with local building codes and regulations. However, another factor that plays a part in how the shingles are installed is the weather conditions in your area. Your local roofing contractors will often have to take a different installation approach depending on whether it is summer or winter. There are different precautionary steps that need to be taken in different weather conditions in order to ensure no damage is done during the installation.

Another thing you should know is that asphalt shingles are most commonly available in strips of 36 inches long by 12 inches wide. Therefore, each strip has a set of three tabs, which provides the visual shingle effect when installed correctly. Each 3 tab strip has a layer of adhesive just above the tabs. The heat of the sun activates the adhesive, which binds to the layer below and creates a seal that augments the nails when installed.

So, shouldn’t the shingles be enough? The shingles cover the largest area of the roof. However, the shingles hide a lot of essential roofing components that protect your roof against the weather, and keep you warm and dry. In other words, your roof shingles are not always a perfect seal from the rain. Especially as shingles age and curl, rain can be blown underneath them. So what’s going to protect your roof when this happens?

What’s Under the Shingles?

On the surface, your average roof may just look like simple layers of asphalt roofing shingles, however, it’s a lot more complex than the average homeowner may realize. The residential roofing system is composed of layers of different components. These components have different attributes when it comes to restricting wind from entering your home as well as resisting other weather hazards such as rain or hail. The most consistent components that you’ll find installed on your roof are the roof decking, underlayment, drip edge, and flashing.

What are the Parts of a Roof?

Roof Decking (Wood Sheathing)

Roof Decking or roof sheathing is a key roofing component that sits on top of the roof trusses. The roof decking is basically the section on the roof that everything is placed on. Since the roof deck holds everything that’s placed on your roof, expect for the material to be strong enough to hold the weight required and continue to be durable. Just like any other roofing component, the roof deck has many different types of materials. The different types of roof decking materials include steel, concrete, cement, and wood. The way that professional roofing contractors determine the type of roof decking material to use is based on how much weight it needs to carry, which further depends on the roofing components and materials selected. When you consider a residential building, the most common type of roof deck is plywood or groove wood systems. Wood generally stands up to the weight of almost any type of roofing component or material placed on top, although tile may require extra reinforcement.

Roof Underlayment 

After the roof deck is installed, we move on to the underlayment for the roof. The underlayment is installed on to the decking, and before the installation of the asphalt shingles. The most common underlayment material is felt. The reason is because it has a durable paper material that is saturated with asphalt. The purpose of the underlayment is for it to provide a temporary barrier against rain and wind before the shingles are installed. It also provides an extra layer of protection in the case of broken or torn shingles. When the underlayment is being installed, it is installed by rolling the material onto the roof horizontally. The underlayment is being installed not only to provide that extra barrier from water or wind, but it also helps the water to shed downward off the roof without seeping through the seams. Most professional roofing contractors will have options for traditional roofing felt underlayment or a more modern synthetic roof underlayment.

What is Synthetic Underlayment?

Synthetic roof underlayment is a high tech, high performance layer of material made with a highly sturdy polypropylene fabric, which is installed the same as a traditional felt underlayment. This new synthetic roof underlayment is known to be a lighter and stronger alternative to a felt roof underlayment. Of course, this new high tech underlayment will cost more than the traditional underlayment, but it will last much longer. Ask your local roofing contractors the differences in price as well as features of all their underlayment options to ensure the best quality for the underlayment of your roof.

What is the Purpose of Roof Flashing?

Moisture is a roof’s worst enemy. The purpose of roof flashing is to prevent any water from leaking as well as to extend the overall life of the roof. Next to chimneys, skylights, or valleys on your roof, a professional roofing contractor will install metal flashing to ensure that there is proper drainage on your roof. You want the water to run down into the shingles and off the roof, rather than pool around whatever might be poking out your roof. Roof flashing is nothing more than a piece of sheet metal that is usually made from aluminum or galvanized steel. In order to prevent water from entering the home, the flashing is placed over the joints in the roof and wall construction. This is important for the reason that most of the causes of roof leaks is due to the fault of poor roof flashing installation.

Roof flashing can endure extreme stresses from extreme weather conditions. Therefore, when installing the roof flashing material there should be extra care taken so that it would be capable of withstanding these extremes. Many local roofing contractors would cut and shape the roof flashing materials from sheet metal. However, homeowners can also choose to have the flashing pre-formed. It is very important to use roof flashing materials that aren’t prone to rust, such as stainless steel, to maintain the integrity of the roof flashing.

In order to see an effective use of roof flashing, the material used should be weather resistant, highly durable, low maintenance and sturdy. The latter quality is very important for the fact that many roofing materials regularly expand and contract on a daily basis. Especially during the dramatic seasonal weather. An interesting thing that you should know is that during the day, the sunlight can raise the surface temperature of the roof, which ends up making the roof expand. However, keep in mind that at night the temperature drops significantly, which ends in a contraction of your home’s roofing materials. More significant expansions and contractions during seasonal changes can have an effect on the framing lumber, which means that your roof flashing material must withstand all these changes to prevent leaks and remain effective.

What are the different types of Roof Flashing?

The 5 types of roof flashing are Drip Edge, Valley Flashing, Vent Pipe Flashing, Step Flashing and Continuous Flashing.

What is the Purpose of Drip Edge?

Drip edge is a metal flashing or piece of aluminum that protects the edges of your roof. It is designed to prevent water from flowing into the fascia so that the underlying roofing components are protected. With that being said, included in the drip edge is a tiny metal projection that is angled away from the fascia. Because of its angled lip, any water coming down the roof would be obstructed from getting into the house. It’s like something of a middle-man between your shingles and your gutter.

Now as a homeowner, you may be questioning does drip edge prevent water damage? The answer is yes. The drip edge’s purpose is to prevent any water damage that can occur under the roofing shingles. Having water enter underneath your shingles can create temporary or even permanent staining. This can also lead to long-term roof deck deterioration, as well as damage to the fascia board.

When water sits on your roof for a long period of time, it can cause damage and the ends of your roof joists and trusses can be compromised. This could eventually lead to structural damage, or leaks getting into your home and causing interior damage becoming an extremely expensive repair.

What is Valley Flashing?

Valley Flashing protects the point on your roof where two slopes come together to form a valley. Valley Flashing is designed to channel run-off water down the roof into the gutter.

What is Vent Pipe Flashing?

This is the metal or rubber flashing around plumbing vent pipes on your roof. As these vent pipes penetrate through the roof, they are common places to find roof leaks. Over time the thin rubber collar on these boots starts to crack or will become damaged and there’s typically no additional seal to keep water from infiltrating around the vent pipe. The roofing cement holding them in place can also fail, creating another pathway for roof leaks.

What is Step Flashing for?

Step flashing protects the seam between a roof and a wall from water penetration and leaks. Small L-shape flashing pieces are woven into the shingles as you work your way up the roof. The flashing fastens the roof cladding into the wall cladding to help keep water out.

For more information on Step Flashing, please visit our step flashing page:

Everything you Need to Know about Step Flashing on Shingle Roofs

What is Continuous Flashing?

Continuous flashing is considered somewhat controversial as there can be issues with it. Most professional roofing companies would recommend the installation of step flashing instead. Continuous flashing was only fairly recently approved by the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA). L-shaped lengths of metal that are a few of inches longer than the shingle overlap are installed on top of each shingle adjacent to the sidewall. The flashing is then laced into each shingle course.

What is the Fascia on a Roof?

The fascia board is the panel mounted at the point where the roof meets the outer walls of the house and is often called the roofline. However, most professional roofing contractors refer to it by the name of the main board that carries the gutter, which is the fascia or fascias. The fascia board is the long, straight board that runs along the lower edge of the roof. The fascia is fixed directly to the lower ends of the roof trusses and usually does all the work of supporting the lower edge of the bottom row of tiles. Any guttering will be attached to the fascia boards.

Soffit and Fascia Boards

A soffit is a board that bridges the gap between a home’s siding and its roofline. It’s located under the horizontal fascia board, which holds the gutters. Soffits help provide ventilation for your attic space. The fascia is attached to the edge of the roof and stretches horizontally from one end of the rafters to the other.

The purpose of the fascia board is to prevent water and wind from damaging the interior of the house and the roof. It also supports the gutters and drainage pipes as well as to help enhance the appearance of the house. Failing to clean gutters on a regular basis can cause water to pool, which can damage the fascia and soffit.

Roof Insulation

Roof insulation can take many forms. The most commonly used material is felt or plastic sheeting; sometimes with a reflective surface. These materials are installed directly underneath the other roofing material. Synthetic foam batting or material from recycled paper products can also be positioned or sprayed into roofing cavities to enhance the roof’s insulating properties. 

Without proper insulation or ventilation, roofs can begin to experience weather-related problems like ice forming near overhanging eaves. When the ice melts, it can be absorbed into roofing material, causing issues. Called ice dams, these pockets of ice form when heat escapes through the top of the roof, melting snow at the uppermost point. The water then begins to refreeze as it flows down the roof and collects under shingles and other low points. Over time, this can destabilize your shingles, add stress to the roof and destroy drainage systems and gutters.

Impact Resistant Shingles

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What are Impact Resistant Shingles?

Shingles that are impact resistant are given a Class 4 rating. They are also designed to withstand high winds and hail damage. These shingles can be made of copper, aluminum, resin and plastic. Shingles with the Class 4 rating also have an impact resistance of UL 2218. The general purpose of UL 2218 is as the roofing industry’s standard for testing shingles against hail impact. In testing, instead of actually hailstones, they use steel balls of varying sizes. There are four testing classes ranging from 1¼” to 2”. These steel balls are dropped at heights between 12 and 10 feet to mimic the impact of hail falling at high speeds. Currently UL 2218 is one of the highest impact resistance ratings. Aside from hail impact, these shingles can also withstand high winds of up to 110mph. Class 4, impact resistant shingles are recommended by local roofing contractors in areas that frequently see severe hails

Are Class 4 Impact Resistant Shingles Worth the Investment?

In general, Class 4 impact shingles are worth the investment, simply because it adds extra protection and longevity to the roofing material. However, the need for impact shingles mainly depends on where you live. If you are located where there is a frequent amount of damaging storms and hail storms, then the need for the Class 4 impact shingles is greatly increased.  It’s very common for homeowners to be affected by significant amounts of roof damages that could potentially be an expensive repair. Therefore, having a Class 4 impact shingle would help prevent any damages and alleviate any concerns. Especially for those living in harsh weather conditions and stormy climates.

It is important to keep in mind that even with impact resistant shingles, it is still possible for your roof to be affected by minor damages and granular loss from a hail storm.  The value that impact resistant shingles can provide lies in the way that it is designed for strength in any conditions. They are also less likely to crack and for water to enter compared to traditional shingles. Impact resistant shingles may cost more compared to its traditional counterparts, however, the upside is that you benefit from cost savings in terms of maintenance, repair, and premature roof replacement costs. Some insurance companies provide homeowners with a discount for their roof with the impact resistant shingles installed. The discount ends up compensating the slightly higher cost that the impact resistant shingle provides.

How do I know if I have impact resistant shingles?

When shingles are rated they range from Class 1 to 4. With Class 4 shingles having the highest resistance. Looking at the shingles is not a way to determine if they are resistant or not, however, the impact rating is usually marked on the cellophane on the underside of the shingle. Resistance may be provided in several ways. An old method that roofers used was attaching a layer of reinforcing fabric, called a scrim, to the back of the shingle.

Some methods that are commonly used today are increasing the weight of the mat used. Another method is to make the shingles thicker by increasing the thickness of the asphalt layer, or bonding layers of shingles together. A third method would be to modify the mix of the asphalt by adding polymers. Polymers, or cross-linked polymers, are chains of molecules that link to each other. They can be used to improve the physical characteristics of a wide variety of materials. In asphalt roofing shingles, polymers are added to the asphalt to improve the shingle strength and impact resistance.

Are there any other tests available to determine a roof’s class rating?

There are other tests to determine the class rating and one of them is called the ice ball test that began back in the year 2000. An ice ball is basically propelled to match the same speed as a free falling ice stone of the same size. This test requires that the targeted area on the shingle is impacted 3 times as opposed to the steel ball test of only 2 times. This is a pass or fail test. To pass this test, the shingles must show zero immediate visual evidence of damage to the fiberglass mat.

A comprehensive test that many roofing manufacturers do not use, but may be the best test is the UL 2218 B-ice hail impact resistance test. This is a particularly aggressive test that involves wrapping the repeatedly impacting shingle around a 4 inch pole for examination. This test will reveal any ruptures, fractures, tears or cracks in the shingles. The shingle is first impacted by ice balls launched at free fall speeds and that are 2 inches in diameter in order to pass a class 4 rating.

GAF Impact Resistant Shingles meet the highest impact-resistance rating

Impact resistant shingles are tested by dropping a 2 inch steel ball from 20 feet onto the top of the shingles to see if the shingle cracks. GAF impact resistant shingles pass class 4, which is the highest rating possible. For instance GAF’s Timberline ArmorShield series shingles passed the most comprehensive impact-resistance test: UL 2218 Class 4. With this test, the shingles’ ability to withstand high-velocity impact is evaluated. The potential leaks, when subject to high impact. Shingles that pass this test are more likely to prevent leaks into your home.

GAF brands that have been impact resistant approved 

As mentioned before, the Timberline Armorshield shingles is one of the main impact resistant shingle brands offered by GAF that offers the protection of a UL 2218 class 4 rated shingle. Another is the Grand Sequoia ArmorShield shingles that combines the look of rugged wood shakes with the protection of UL 2218 class 4-rated shingle. Lastly their Glenwood shingles also passed the UL 2218 Class 4 impact resistance test.

Are all shingles and metal roofs class 4 roof?

Most shingles are not impact rated, and those that are Class 4 run 10 to 20 percent more expensive than those that are not class 4 rated. Many metal roofs are impact resistant and will be rated class four. Now the question that might run through your head is, why is impact resistance so important? Well impact resistance is important because it’s a measure of resistance to hail and debris. Generally speaking, you can’t label something as hail proof but those products that have been classified as class 4 have met the very highest standard of resistance that a roofing material can achieve from the UL safety certification system. Therefore, purchasing roofing products that are class 4 rated means you will have a smaller likelihood of damage after a hail event or a storm where debris has made contact with your roof. Furthermore, replacing a roof is not the only expense when roofing fails. If the hail/debris causes a leak, additional damage is likely to occur inside the building. With Class 4 rated metal systems, your roof is far more likely to remain watertight even after a storm damage.

What about Metal class 4 roofs?

In most cases, local roofing contractors wouldn’t recommend installing a class 4 metal roofing system. Many insurance carriers have clauses in their policies regarding metal roofs which state that they don’t pay out for cosmetic damage to a metal roof system. Metal roofs are incredibly durable, but the flip side to this is that you could be stuck with a dinged up, ugly roof if the metal doesn’t sustain large enough damage for it to be replaced.

Imagine spending $60,000 for a steel roof and having it dented to the point of being able to view it from the ground, yet it doesn’t have any functional damage required by an insurance company to be replaced. The homeowner should not be surprised when an insurance adjuster denies a claim based on the policy stating that they do not owe to replace the steel roof panels or stone coated steel without real functional damage. It is advisable to read your roofing insurance policy carefully when considering investing in a metal roof system.

Are Class 4 shingles worth the money?

Some homeowners live in a country or state where there is a frequent amount of hail. Some areas that experience particularly bad hail storms regularly can experience hailstones ranging in size from golf balls to baseballs! Now, whether you live in an area where there is a frequent amount of hail or not, if hail were to hit your home, the results could be devastating for your entire property, and mainly your roof. Therefore, many homeowners are actually looking into modified, impact resistant shingles for their home. However, a good portion of homeowners might actually be hesitant to purchase, wondering if they should just purchase these newer, more expensive shingles are really worth the money.

No local roofing contractors could ever say that any roof is hail proof, however it has been proven that class 4 shingles, which have been modified to resist impact, are absolutely worth the cost. With impact resistant shingles, they can significantly minimize the amount of damage that hailstones and storms can often bring. If you live in an area, such as Upstate New York, that frequently sees a lot of hail and inclement weather then an upgrade to will be particularly worth the investment.

How Long Will My Roof Last?

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How Long Will My Roof Last?

How long will my roof last? This varies a lot due to different material choices. The best roofing contractors are skilled at installing many different systems. Poorly installed roofing shingles may only last until high winds come sweeping through your town! A well installed roofing system is going to last longer than the manufacturer warranties it for. Many factors go into the life expectancy of roofing shingles, including southern facing exposure, drastic temperature changes in different regions, the amount of trees and shade the roof receives, severe or coastal weather, the roofing contractor’s skill level, and of course the brand of shingles and underlayments.

Shingle roofing systems – local roofing contractors who are certified usually are the best choice for installing a new shingle roof because they can offer the extended manufacturer’s warranty. Most certified roofing installers have been trained to install a roof per spec and can not get a manufacturer’s certification without the know how. This alone will usually guarantee your roof installation is performed correctly; having enough nails to prevent high wind blow-offs, installing all flashing correctly to prevent premature leaks and guaranteeing the use of premium roofing materials since most manufacturers will not extend a warranty with the use of knock-off materials. When the best roofing contractors install a fully warrantied roofing system, you can expect to get 20-25 years out of a moderately weathered and or sheltered home.

Having a lot of trees around your home can either be great or detrimental to your roof’s life expectancy. Often, trees will cause more harm than good to your roof for the following reasons:

  • Branches or even the trees themselves can fall and damage your roof.
  • Other debris such as leaves and needles can also cause issues, blocking your gutters and valleys and encouraging the growth of mold.
  • Trees can cause moss and lichen to grow on your roof. Once the moss reaches a certain point it starts getting in between the roofing shingles. If this happens, the moss will absorb any moisture and feeds right onto your roof decking, where it causes further damage. At this point, if your roof is not already leaking then it will be soon. If things progress this far, it will cost much more to repair later.
  • If the trees are too close, animals may be tempted to jump to or nest on your roof.
  • Too much shade can mean that your roof does not dry off quickly. It can also mean that snow will linger around much longer on your rooftop. This can be detrimental to your roof if ice dams form consistently over time.

However, in the right environment, trees could also be very beneficial to your roof for the following reasons:

  • These trees may actually help your roof last longer by protecting it from the sun’s harmful UV rays. UV rays will contribute to the breakdown of the components of your roofing system over time. These components are rated to last a certain amount of time in direct sunlight, but often they would last much longer in a more shaded environment.
  • The right trees can also protect your home from storms and harsh weather without putting your property at more risk.
  • Shade from trees can help your home stay cooler in the summer and reduce the strain on your air conditioning units.

A well sheltered asphalt shingle roof will last 25-30 years. These well-sheltered houses would also most likely benefit from having gutter guards installed as some houses in the woods need to have their gutters cleaned up to 5 times a year. 

The quality of shingle will also greatly affect the roofing system’s life expectancy. Top brand shingle manufacturing companies have developed their roofing shingles through years and years of research and development. GAF’s test lab recently installed a roof using no nails or any fasteners. The roof was put under extreme 140 mph wind conditions and remained fully intact. GAF is also the only shingle company that makes a shingle that is 50% thicker, known as their ULTRA line. These shingles are known to last anywhere from 30-35 years and also improve the looks of the roof because the increased thickness increases the shadow lines creating more contrast for an overall fancier look. As an experienced local roofing company, we can tell you that no other roofing manufacturer comes close to rivalling the consistently high quality of GAF’s shingles.

The quality of underlayments used under the roofing shingles will be another determining factor on how long your roof will last. An upgraded GAF Deck Armor roof allows the decking to breathe while not letting moisture in. This will allow your house’s attic to remain cooler in the hot months decreasing the overall roof temperature preventing the shingles from prematurely aging due to extreme temperatures. Also a higher quality Ice and Water shield will stick tight to the nails penetrating it so that no moisture will get in between the nail holes if you do have ice dams building up along your eaves. A lot of roofing contractors will try and save hundreds of dollars by using the cheap store brands of ice and water which do not really fully adhere to the roof decking, allowing ice build up to rot out the bottom few feet of decking. 

Metal roofing systems have an average life expectancy of about 50 years. It is important to only use contractors who have experience installing metal as it is a highly skilled trade. Metal is something you put on your forever home. Standing seam is the Cadillac of metal roofing and is going to have little to no maintenance due to a snap lock panel system. Corrugated roofing is more economical but will need some maintenance from time to time because it has exposed fasteners. These exposed fasteners have little rubber washers creating a watertight seal that eventually fail over the course of the roof’s lifespan. To properly maintain these penetrations and avoid leaks they will need to be caulked after about 20 years. Taking into consideration the maintenance and overall price of a corrugated metal roofing system, it still remains a huge ROI compared to two and a half lifespans of shingles.  

Cedar shakes can be expected to last around 30 years. This system will need some maintenance from time to time. The color of cedar shakes darkens and looks more natural as years go on. The overall cost of a cedar shake roofing system does end up costing around the same price as metal but will not last as long and is typically only purchased for aesthetic purposes. Cedar shakes do come in metal and composite look-a-likes which will have a longer lifespan of 50 years. Most local roofing companies will not install cedar shakes due to inexperience. 

Slate is the longest lasting roofing product to this date. Some slate had lasted almost a hundred years in the right conditions. Most slate is going to start looking rough and needing continuous maintenance after about 75 years. Slate now comes in composites and can be expected to last just as long as real slate. Local roofing companies who can install slate are usually hard to come by. Most local roofing contractors will not quote for or repair slate, as you have to be so highly skilled or you can easily cause more damage than good. 

Rubber roofing or EPDM roofing is most commonly used for flat commercial roofing or smaller porch roof sections on residential homes and will last between 20-25 years. Most manufacturers offer 20 year full coverage warranties if you use their full roofing system, meaning you have to use all quality, name brand seam tape and cover tape. Commercial roofing companies are usually certified by manufacturers because high standards must be met in order for the manufacturers to back their labor and material warranties once they are installed. Commercial roofing manufacturers will send roofing inspectors out after the work is complete to check it meets all their requirements. If the contractors work is sub-par a warranty will not be issued until all aspects have been installed to spec. 

A TPO roofing system will last twenty to twenty five years. Only the best roofing contractors in each area will be geared towards installing TPO. Local roofing contractors usually don’t install this system because they do not have the expensive equipment needed to perform heat welds. TPO is also a white reflective roof which will add years to your cooling units lifespans. 

Overall you only need high quality materials and high quality workmanship to get the most bang for your buck over the long term. The best way to get the longest potential lifespan out of a roofing system is to choose a quality product that offers a full warrantied system which has to use all high quality accessories to qualify for full coverage. Make sure to ask your contractor which materials are being used and check the contract for brand names on underlayments. 

Choosing certified roofing installers who back their work up with their own in house warranty is the safest bet to achieve maximum lifetime efficiency out of the materials you invest in. Check that the local roofing company is listed on any websites they claim to be certified by to ensure that you will receive an actual manufacturers warranty. Most shingle companies will mail you a warranty within a month after your replacement offering you peace of mind for many years to come.

What Should I Look For In A Roofing Contractor?

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What To Look For In A Roofing Contractor

Choosing an honest roofer among numerous roofing companies and getting one with enough professional experience and expertise to actually know what they’re doing, is the most vital decision you will make as a property owner. Putting a roof on your home is a major project and should be treated that way. Installing a replacement roof is a task every homeowner and roofer should approach professionally and punctiliously . The roofing industry is filled with scammers and money-driven sales people or middlemen who may not really know what they are talking about. They have the skills to tell you all the right things and exactly what you want to hear, appearing to be the best choice when that is actually far from the truth. We have written a previous blog that can relate to this one about what can go wrong with hiring the wrong roofing contractor. This post is another effort from the Infinite Roofing Team to help you make a wise choice concerning such a major investment for your home.

Choosing a well established local roofing company is a very important step towards avoiding roofing companies who are not legitimate. When hiring a roofer, you want to know that they will be around if something goes wrong down the line either with the work or with the shingle materials being used.

4 Mistakes To Avoid When Hiring Local Roofing Companies

1. Avoid A Roofing Company With An Unprofessional, Outdated website

You may be thinking, well why is it important for a roofing company to have a professional website? Well, pretty much everyone today has a website. A well-established and legitimate roofing business should at the very least have a professionally done, basic website to let the world know who they are and what they do. If a roofing contractor tells you that they do not have an internet site or they are working on it, they probably don’t deserve your trust. They are likely either just starting out or perhaps they’re hiding something. In either case, you don’t want to trust them with something as complex as a replacement roof installation for your home! Some roofers may give you a URL website which in the end would just direct you to a free google site page which is usually poorly done or is as basic as it can be. What that means is they do not really have a proper website, they just put up something for free to show someone just in case a homeowner asks!

What a professional website tells you about your local roofing contractors is that they are more well-established and committed to providing a quality service. They have an online presence that they care about and provide a main point of contact and a place for you to get customer support and leave feedback or reviews. They stand by their work and they don’t mind customer feedback being public. They will have an established phone number and email address listed on their website, along with their business hours.

More well-established companies will also have their trucks and uniforms printed with their website and their contact number on them. They have invested a significant amount of money, time and effort into their branding and online presence. They have people on their payroll in an office somewhere keeping their website going and answering customer’s calls/emails. A company that has made such an investment and is so well established is not going to be able to easily ignore you and disappear if something goes wrong. You know they are in the roofing industry for the long-term and they are not just playing at being roofers.

2. Avoid A Roofing Company With Negative Reviews

Many local roofing companies may actually have a presence online with a proper website and even social media pages like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or even Yelp, Google and Bing. A roofing contractor cannot remove or fake the experiences of their previous customers. It is important to take note of these reviews and comments, especially when a customer has mentioned a negative experience. A customer would go out their way to write a negative review against a roofing company they were not happy with. Checking for reviews is a good way to learn more about the roofing contractor you are considering. Check out their online reviews at google, Better Business Bureau (BBB) and the other places mentioned above to see what their customers have said about them.

3. Avoid a Roofing Company With No General Liability Insurance

Worker’s Compensation insurance covers the employees working on your property; general liability insurance covers your actual property. Some roofers claiming to be legitimate local roofing contractors might not have either. Even if they have worker’s compensation insurance, it doesn’t help you as a homeowner if the roofer accidentally damages your house while on your roof and they don’t carry liability insurance, it could then be you that is responsible for the cost of the repairs. When it involves insurance, don’t simply take the roofer’s word for it. Be certain about the roofer’s credibility; ask them to provide proof of their insurance before they begin any work. Do not simply take their word for it!

4. Avoid A Contractor That Won’t Provide A Written Estimate

A roofing contractor’s estimate can tell you a lot about what kind of roofing company they are. Local roofing companies that try to avoid providing you with a written estimate should immediately be considered a scam. You may ask, why is that? Well the roofer you are dealing with is either a complete amateur or they are not really a true hands-on roof installer. They are quite likely an untrained, commission based salesperson that does not possess the knowledge and experience necessary to prepare a real written roof estimate of their own. Some of these commission sales representatives have been trained purely to get the sale and nothing more. If they don’t know the product they are selling, how can they best advise you on your costly investment?

Also, if you do not have exactly what work you are paying the contractor for in writing, what is to say that they will actually fully complete the work you agreed upon? And what about the quality of the roofing materials? If you agree to getting ice & water barrier installed or getting higher quality shingles but then the contractor only installs the basics, what do you do? Without a written contract detailing exactly what will be installed and the cost, you will be left high and dry without any recourse.

A Master Elite Roofing Contractor Is What You’re Looking For!

First things first, what does it mean to be a Master Elite contractor? You may have seen it with the accompanied logo above and always wondered what it really means to be a Master Elite roofing contractor. Anyone can be a roofer, there are no requirements at all to be one in many states. Therefore, there are so many roofers who are not qualified in any way. Building codes dictate that the roof should be installed a certain way, but in reality when and if the building inspector inspects the roof there is just no way to verify the right code has been met. The roof is already on and you can’t tear it off to check. The first sign might be when water starts pouring into your home months or just a few years later. Considering this fact, it isn’t a mystery why roofing complaints make up 70 percent of the Better Business Bureaus overall complaints. That’s pretty wild when you consider that your roof is easily the single most important element to the protection of your house, and yet only represents 4 percent of the value of your home. So you have to wonder then, why do most people seem so bound and determined to settle on a rock bottom bid!

Another roofing trade secret is that a couple of roofing shingle manufacturers have come up with a certification program that permits contractors to supply better warranties and successively offer more protection than your everyday roofer/handyman or some guy with a hammer. These programs are fantastic but there are still some holes in your overall protection. Standard roofing certification programs from major roofing manufacturers only require you to use 3 of their system components (felt, ice and water shield) to ensure an upgraded warranty. That is a step up from a basic roofing warranty, but it still doesn’t cover any components produced by other manufacturers and may leave you with a nasty bill if you ever get to the point that you need to claim on your roofing warranty coverage.

Hire a Master Elite contractor from GAF— a Master Elite roofing contractor is the only roofer that can provide the GAF 25 Year Golden Pledge Warranty, the most encompassing and substantial roofing warranty in the roofing industry. The GAF Golden Pledge Warranty is the only warranty that needs the whole roof system to be from GAF (one single manufacturer). GAF is the largest roofing manufacturer in North America. The real beauty of the Golden Pledge is that once your new roof is installed, a representative from GAF comes out and puts their stamp of approval on the job when we are done. And if for any reason we were to fail their extensive 40 point inspection process, we’ve got to come back and repair it right away, at no cost to you! There is really not very much extra cost to install your roof in this manner. We are only talking a few hundred bucks on a mid-size roof. You will probably spend more on buying a warranty on a new tv set, and the tv does a crummy job of keeping your living room free of rain and snow.

What makes a Master Elite contractor so special, and how are they different from a typical roofer or a licensed contractor?

Master Elite contractors make up only 2 percent of the total roofers nationwide. The reason it is so rare is that it is very hard to achieve. GAF verifies all the following requirements before granting any roofing company their prized Master Elite status.

  • Minimum 7 years in business and 1 year in their certification program
  • 99 percent customer satisfaction based on independent surveys from GAF
  • 1 million general liability coverage and proper and valid workers compensation
  • Satisfactory rating with BBB
  • GOOD or better credit rating
  • Clean banking record ( no overdrafts, negative info)
  • Clean distributor reference
  • No liens, or judgments unresolved on record
  • Good workmanship record

You can see why it is almost impossible for 98 percent of companies to achieve even these base requirements, but still the final test is a face-to-face meeting with the GAF territory managers to doubly verify all information and personally check out our previous jobs and talk to some of our previous customers. It is a true partnership with GAF, and that is fantastic for you, us, and them. This is what a good business relationship is like. A roofing contractor who is not even certified couldn’t build that kind of relationship.

Quality Roofing Work Matters

Another very important aspect of installing a quality roof is properly ventilating the attic space. This is yet another major opportunity being missed by a lot of homeowners simply because they are listening to a greedy salesperson or middleman. Proper attic ventilation is imperative to any shingle roofing system’s longevity. Unfortunately, many homeowners are not being told the truth about their attic ventilation simply so the roofing contractor can make more of a profit. Giving up any of your insurance money towards an upgrade of any kind means less money in the roofing companies pocket. This can and will have a negative impact on your product warranty. Most shingle manufacturing companies won’t provide a guarantee when the roof has been installed without proper attic ventilation or if the roof was installed improperly. Make sure you examine your contracts and material information very carefully. Most good quality local roofing companies post their warranty information and details right on their website. A good local roofing contractor will not mind a customer who asks questions because they will have nothing to hide. Check your material list against the warranty requirements and confirm nothing is missing.

For local roofing contractors you can count on, call Infinite Roofing on 518-444-ROOF or email info@infiniteroofingny.com. Book your free roofing estimate, today!

Infinite Roofing GAF Master Elite Infinite Roofing

Does Your Home Need Roof Ventilation?

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Do You Really Need Roof Ventilation?

You’re probably aware that most attic and roofs are vented. Maybe you’re also aware of the ridge vent that’s at the peak of your roof. However, what you may not be aware of is that some homes may not have enough ventilation or don’t have any ventilation at all. Now, you may be asking if a roof ventilation system is even necessary? Roof ventilation helps keep your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter, therefore giving your roof a longer lifespan and a much lower risk of roof damages. A well-designed roof ventilation system also helps eliminate moisture in your attic and crawl spaces by allowing cool, dry air to enter while exhausting out the warm, moist air. Your local roofing contractors know that in order to stay healthy, your home actually needs to breathe just like you do! Allowing your home to breathe will help prevent damp and deter dangerous mold growth in your attic and crawl spaces.

Why Are Roof Vents Needed?

If you have an attic, an unheated space in the basement or an upper floor attached to the roof, ventilation is necessary to help correct air conditioning of your area. In summer, your roof’s ventilation helps cool the roof and underlying water barrier materials, reducing the expansion of the metal and slows the aging of asphalt shingles, which suffer from the heat. That’s not all though; roof vents are crucial in winter too. By keeping your roof cool, you can prevent snow from melting on top of the roof and freezing again in your rain gutters where they would create an ice dam that can cause leaks and water damage. Even if there are no leaks, additional weight can cause structural damage to your roof. The vents prevent this by circulating the coldest air from the eaves through the vent in the roof peak.

Extend The Life Of Your Roof

Have you ever seen icicles build up on the edge of roofs and gutters? This ice buildup is known as ice damming. You can see the icicles, but you can’t see the damage that they’re doing to the edge of your roof. Ice damming happens when heat from inside your attic combines with heat from the sun to melt snow and ice on your warm roof. When the resulting water runs to the edge of your roof, it begins to refreeze. As the ice and water build up at the edges of the roof, it can back up behind/underneath the roofing materials, causing damage to your whole roof system, your attic and even inside the walls of your home.

Proper ventilation helps warm air escape before it has a chance to melt the snow and ice on your roof. A well-vented roof can be easy to see in the wintertime. It will still have snow on the roof, but there will not be an icicle in sight.

Ventilation will benefit a roof when it’s hot outside as well. When the outside temperature rises, the temperature on your roof can be nearly double that. A hot roof over a poorly vented attic will give you a very hot attic.

The reason for this is that unventilated or poorly ventilated attics don’t have an escape route for the heat that builds up. This buildup of heat can damage your shingles from the inside out. An evenly vented roof will allow the hot air to escape keeping your roof and attic cooler.

Reducing Energy Costs

When the temperature increases outside, everyone wishes to shelter away and stay cool inside. A properly vented roof allows the heat to escape, thereby reducing the workload on your air conditioner. An air conditioner that’s running less means you will have a lower electric bill.

Reduces Indoor Temperature Extremes

Have you ever walked upstairs and thought it was at least 10 degrees warmer than it was in your living room? These indoor temperature extremes are often the result of poorly vented roofs. Once your roof is adequately vented to allow the hot air to escape and the cool air enter the attic space, your home will be more comfortable year-round.

Attic Vents Control Moisture & Temperature

When air stagnates in the attic, moisture tends to condense out and settle on the framing and insulation. This provides a perfect environment for mold and rot to set in. Mold loves to grow in damp attic insulation, and damp insulation has a tendency to clump, which reduces its effectiveness. Rot affects the framing and the roof decking, and the end result can be a sagging roof. Sagging roofs leak, which worsens the moisture problem in the attic and creates a big problem in living areas below.

The Proper Attic Ventilation

Soffit vents, which are grids that fit over holes you cut in the soffits, come in different sizes. On some aluminum or vinyl soffit systems, the vents are integrated into soffit panels. Since the roof line and soffit form a corner in the attic, you usually have to fit baffles over the soffit vents, running up along the roof sheathing beneath the insulation. These are cardboard or plastic air passageways that you fasten to the underside of the roof decking. They prevent insulation from blocking the vents and keep air flowing freely.

Ridge vents are the most economical roof vents. A roof’s ridge vent is a continuous vent that runs along the peak of a sloped roof. It is usually covered with shingles to match the rest of the roof. You can also choose a number of vent styles that open directly onto the roof deck. Care should be taken to make sure that the vent openings aren’t covered by snow in the winter as this will seriously hinder their functionality. If your house accommodates them, you can also satisfy the roof vent area requirement by installing gable vents that penetrate the siding and open into the unheated attic space. You have to exercise some care when designing a ventilation system to ensure uniform circulation throughout the attic, especially in corners and behind obstacles.

The Flat Roof Vent System

Whichever roof ventilation system you select, you will want to make sure that you preserve the integrity of your roof. If you install a turbine or other ventilation duct across the roof surface, you must ensure that it includes enough solenoid and sealant to prevent water from flowing into the home and causing moisture problems. A ridge vent will have to be fixed on the roof, the asphalt fabric, the minimal roll or the metal. It is necessary to provide the room with circulating air under the roof covering.

How Does Roof Ventilation Work?

A roof ventilation system works by providing continuous flow of air through your attic space, helping remove overheated air and moisture from the attic and roof system and reduce the impact of changing temperatures and moisture conditions both inside and outside the home. The system that allows the ventilation of air to take place consist of intake vents and exhaust vents installed at strategic intervals in the attic or roof area. Several different types of vents may be used in different locations to provide ventilation for the attic or roof area. Several different types of vents may be used in different locations to provide for attic air to circulate in the right amounts and directions throughout the roofing system.

A good local roofing company knows that correct design and construction of the roof ventilation system is critical. The roof’s design should provide plenty of open air space for insulation and air flow under the roof and eaves. And, a correctly designed system will precisely balance the intake and exhaust ventilation under the roof so that the attic is slightly pressurized, preventing conditioned air from being sucked out too quickly through the vents, thereby increasing heating and cooling costs.

What Happens If Your Attic Is Not Vented?

Any professional local roofing contractors will tell you that proper attic ventilation is crucial to keep the air flowing through your attic, rather than simply letting it sit. Ventilation essentially helps outside air pass through and out of your attic, removing excess heat and moisture from the air of your attic as it does so. Air is taken in through areas like your soffits and eaves and is exhausted through the roof at your ridge cap or by a roof vent. This helps create the right air balance in your attic, which plays an important role in keeping your home healthy and comfortable to be in.

How Much Attic Ventilation Do You Need?

Since most roofs are under ventilated, many people have no idea just how much roof ventilation they need, or what kind of purchase. The FHA recommends that you have 1 square foot of attic exhaust (both intake and exhaust) for every 300 square feet of attic square.

When there is a lack of ventilation it can cause a whole host of problems in and around your home. Depending on the climate that you live in, lack of proper ventilation can have a serious impact on your energy bills and the lifespan of things like your roof.

If your home lacks sufficient ventilation, it can create a super heated attic. Without the air moving through the space, the air trapped inside starts to heat up with the sun beating down on the roof. This heat then transfers itself through the floor of your attic and begins to warm the rooms of your home. This in turn leads to higher energy bills as your fans and AC work to combat it. Another issue with the fact that your attic is becoming superheated is the lifespan of your roof shingles. The heat from your attic won’t just be transferred down into your living space; it will also be transferred back to the roof itself. This causes the shingles to become overheated, essentially frying them and decreasing their lifespan.

The heat transfer from a super heated attic can damage a lot more than your roof and your energy bills. It can also warp the wood framing in your attic, which in turn can warp walls and door frames, as well as transfer down the walls to blister your paint and wallpaper.

Moisture Build Up 

The summer isn’t the only time you need to worry about a lack of attic ventilation. During the winter the steam from your shower, clothes dryer, and pots and pans can all get trapped in the attic where it condenses. This condensation can drip back down onto your insulation, rendering it less effective. It can also lead to the growth of mold and mildew in your attic and in your insulation where it can harm your family’s health.

Condensation and excess moisture can also form on your eaves and soffits, driving moisture back under your roof and forming ice dams that can cause leaks as well. Proper ventilation keeps the air moving all year long, which moves moisture out of the attic before it can condense.

Summary

Proper ventilation is essential to the well-being of your home and everyone within. If you are concerned that your roof is lacking sufficient ventilation or you have noticed some of the issues mentioned here in your home, you should contact professional local roofing contractors to have a look and let you know what your options are. Call 518-444-ROOF and we will be happy to help you address any concerns you may have.