Infinite Roofing & Construction Roofing Blog

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

Should My Roof Have Drip Edge, and What Color Should It Be?

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Is a drip edge necessary? We have complied a guide for all your drip edge questions for shingle roofs. Drip edges are metal flashings that are installed around the edges of a roof to control the flow of water. These metal sheet are usually in the shape of an “L,” and direct water away from the fascia and into the gutters. Without the use of drip edge, water would get under the shingles causing damage in numerous places of the roof. Your local roofing contractor will tell you that drip edge is a requirement by most building codes in North America to help protect homes from damage. As we always suggest, look for the best roofing company in your area to ensure your roofing work is done properly. Not all work is created equal.

What is the purpose of a drip edge on a roof?

As we stated above the main key purpose of installing drip edge is to direct water away from the fascia. Water droplets stick to one another and to the surfaces they are on, drip edge is designed to work with gravity allowing water to be forced into the gutters. Even if a home has no gutters, water will still be forced away and not collected down the fascia or soffit cavity. Without the drip edge water would stick to the shingles, working its way underneath and causing leaks.

Wind driven rain is a serious condition in which the wind forcefully pushes water all around the roof of a home. Each layer of the roofing system is designed to keep the moisture from harming the roof’s deck, which include the shingles, underlayment’s, and ice & water. Strong winds can easily push water upwards and the drip edge must compete to keep the water out. There should be about 2-4 inches of lower flange hanging off the edge of the roof to combat wind driven rain so the roof does not become compromised.

What To Do When You Experience Wind Driven Rain Roof Leak – Roofing Contractor Sullivan IL – Central Roofing LLC

What type of materials are drip edge made with?

Drip edge is made from numerous types of materials such as plastics and metals, the metals must be corrosion resistant or galvanized.

Copper: Many people choose copper because of its aesthetics, it has a beautiful golden color that makes the roof pop.

Deciding on the Right Roofing - Modernize

Aluminum is a very common material used for drip edge. Although it is not as strong as steel aluminum does not corrode and it is often made in many colors that match many homes.

Galvanized steel is another common material used. Galvanized steel is designed to work wither water and prevent rusting. The preferable type of steel is 24 gauge so it can withstand strong winds.

Plastic, vinyl and fiberglass can also be used but these are harder to find in some areas and are not the best suited.

Drip edge comes in three basic profiles, each profile can be called more than one name so it can be a bit confusing. The C type is in the classic L shape. This type of profile is bent in a 90 degree angle with a lower flange. Type D profile is in the shape of a T, this has a lower flange on the bottom. This type is often times called D-metal or the T style. F type is an extended drip edge with a longer edge, this is used when installing a new drip edge over existing shingles and on the rake edges. This type is often called F style or the gutter apron.

The standard sizing of drip edge is sold in 10.5 foot lengths and also 8ft or sometimes smaller. The overhang length ranges from 2-5 inches, you may find other sizing in your local materials store, but smaller sizing is intended for windows and not a roof.

What color should roof drip edge be?

If your homes trim and fascia are white your local roofing contractor will most likely recommend that the best choice is a white drip edge so your home is seamless. If you have for instance gray shutters on your home and other pops of gray, then choosing a gray drip edge might look nice tying it all together. Choosing a color drip edge or any building material is personally preference.

Can you install drip edge on existing roof?

Drip edge is most often replaced when a new roof is installed, but it is possible to replace the drip edge at any time. We would not recommend a local roofing contractor who suggests leaving the old drip edge. It is best to replace the drip edge on an existing roof in the warmer months, shingles can become brittle in the cold and break.

Do you need to replace drip edge when replacing the roof?

No you do not have to replace the drip edge but you should, the old drip edge is most likely “old” looking and dirty from being outside for so long. If you are making the effort to replace you roof, you should replace the drip edge so the entire roofing system looks nice. Leaving the existing drip edge to save a few bucks isn’t worth loosing on the appearance. If you want your roof to last as long as possible, everything should be replaced when doing a re-roof.

My roof should have a drip edge or overhanging shingles right? It's like this all around the house. Luckily I rent. : Roofing

How to install drip edge:

Drip edge is installed different on the eaves and rakes, once the roof deck is prepared the drip edge will be installed before the underlayment. Always consult with your local roofing company before doing any DIY work. Your roof is the most important part of your home, look for the best roofing company in your area to be sure the job is done correctly.

Step one: If you are using a type C drip edge, you can install a furring strip which will aide in its performance. A furring edge is a strip of wood that is installed on the vertical surfaces of the house under the roofs edge. When this is installed it keeps the flower flange away from the homes siding to direct water away from the home.

Step two: First install drip edges on the eaves and placing the drip edge down, so that the water will go into the gutters. The flange will point down and away from the roof.

Step three: Using roofing nails, nail every 12 inches, never allowing more than 12 inches without a nail. When placing the drip edge piece down, it should never over the first by an inch.  

Preparing Your Home For a Roof Replacement

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Today is the day of your brand new roof installation! This is an exciting time but it is important to remember that once your local roofing company arrives, your home is a “work zone” and can be dangerous. Even if you and your family are eager to sneak a close look as we rip off your old roof and prepare the new one, we urge you to keep a safe distance as our crew does their work. Infinite Roofing and Construction prioritizes your roof replacement to be a stress-free and seamless operation. We have a few tips to keep you safe and help your roof installation go as smooth as possible.

Relocate Vehicles

One of the most important requests we have for you is to please relocate your vehicles out of the driveway. Our roofing contractors need quick access to their trucks and tools throughout the day, you’ll want to have your vehicles a safe distance from the “work zone” until the job has been completed. As we arrive in the morning we back in our large trailer to be filled up with all debris from your old roofing system in your driveway.

Cover valuables

If your home has an attic that you use as storage, it is a good idea to move valuable items or cover them while construction is being done. Even if your entire roof isn’t being ripped off, dust and other particles are likely to penetrate through the roof and into your attic. Simply covering important items with an old sheet or drop cloth will work perfectly fine. Once your roof is complete there may need to be some clean up on your end in the attic, a light vacuum should be sufficient in getting up residual dust from the work.  

Landscape

Trimming areas around your property is appreciated, any tree branches that are hanging over your roof will need to be removed. Mowing your lawn previous to your roofing installation will help us to identifying falling objects from your roof, which make it easier for us to see and pick up. Our roofing contractors go around your property with a magnetic nail sweeper upon completion to be sure all sharp nails and other objects are recovered, a short lawn improves its accuracy.

Patio and Lawn furniture

If you have large patio furniture that you think might be in the way for our roofing contractors, we kindly ask you to temporarily move them. If you have other important items to you such as large garden pots, bikes, lighting posts, or anything else that might be in the way for our crew to work, please relocate those items. If you are unable to move large heavy items yourself, we are happy to help or do it for you. We would prefer it to be done prior to our arrival just so nothing happens to your valuables, we don’t want to be liable for unnecessary damage.

Pictures and Knickknacks

Many people choose to have a new roofing system put on and couple it with new siding, to get both done at once for convenience. If this is the case for you then we suggest prepping the inside of your home prior to our arrival. Vibrations from heavy machinery and hammers can travel through your home, especially if wood and decking is being replaced. These vibrations may cause pictures or other items to come loose from your walls, although it will not feel like an earthquake, we would rather be safe and suggest taking down valuable items that are not tightly secured by screws.

Sprinkler

Depending on the season that you are having your roof replaced, we want to remind you to please turn off your sprinkler system. Most sprinkler systems are set automatically and it is easy to forget to turn them off. We may have your roofing materials delivered the previous day or the day of, so we want to make sure that your sprinklers are off so your materials do not get wet.

Best Sprinkler Review - Top 5 Coolest List for Sep. 2020 with Buying Guide

Satellite Dish and Antenna

If you have a satellite dish or large antenna on your roof top, it is best to remove that. After your roofing installation you can call you cable company and arrange to have it reinstalled. With that being said we do not advise any antenna or satellite dish to be install directly on your roof. Your local roofing company can advise you where they think you should install your satellite dish or antenna, so that it will not harm your new roof. Any nails that are not correctly nailed in can result in leaks. Even the smallest nail hole can result in major damage to your new roofing system, and even not be covered by your warranty.

Skylights

If you are installing new skylights we do advise that you put down an old sheet or drop cloth under where your skylight is housed. While work is being done around your skylight, it is likely that some debris from installation will come inside and onto your floor.

Children and Pets

You may not think to relocate you children or pets during your roof installation, but keep in mind that it will be loud and there will be some commotion. It might not be the easiest to let your dog out into yard where the crew is working and the noises might disturb them. Children are naturally curious, the trucks and large machinery will probably interest them, please remember this is a work zone and children should not be present.

Regardless of COVID-19, Solar panels still a great investment

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The global pandemic of COVID-19 has negatively impacted the renewable energy market but many suppliers are starting to recover after all these months.  Although the virus has originated from China, they by far are the leading global producers of clean energy technologies which include solar panels. Since the pandemic began the demand for building materials has decreased, but interestingly the demand for solar is on the rise. Homeowners are seeing an increase in energy use since working from home or “sheltering in place,” this has led to an interest in solar energy to decrease energy bills.

Recent reports show a rise of 44% in solar system quotes from LG, the South Korean electronics giant, showing that people in quarantine are searching for solar power. Even more astonishing, a yearly increase of 50% has been reported as web traffic increases to solar power producers. The SEIA (Solar Energy Industries Association) has reported that the U.S. solar market will install around 100GWdc of solar between 2021-2025, this is a 42% increase over the last five years. 2020 may be full of unknowns, many factors point to rooftop solar being even more sought-out than ever before. 

There is no other technology to generate electricity that is able to keep up with solar power, reduce costs, and improve performance. Over the past decade, solar panels have become more efficient and even cheaper to produce, this is giving natural gas and coal a run for its money. Solar power is out performing all other renewable energy sources in many ways. In 2010 the price per watt was around $2 fast forward to 2019, the price per watt dropped down to just around $.20. This 90% price reduction has helped push the global expansion of solar power on homes.

The efficiency of mono silicon based modules have replaced previous modules by increasing the watts to around 345, all for one-tenth of the cost from previous multi-silicon modules from 2010.

Over the last 12 years polysilicon production has more than quadrupled globally, while the average price of polysilicon has declined from $80 a kilogram in 2010, down to $8.40 a kilo reported in 2020. These numbers have created a momentum for the solar industry that will continue to grow well into the 2020’s.

Indonesia Simplifies Renewable-based Power Plant Regulation - The Insiders Stories

BIPV or Building-Integrated Photovoltaics are dual purpose in that they serve as the outer layer of a building and also generate electricity. These systems provide savings on not only materials but on electricity costs as well, not to mention reducing pollution and adding architectural appeal to the building. BIPV can be used to replace the roof, façade, and other parts of a building. Larger commercial buildings favor the use of this technology because they have so much surface area exposed, giving them many options for solar.

With many color options and a steady decrease in material costs, BIPV is even more accessible to the average consumer. Many manufactures whom specialize in roofing have produced reasonably priced solar shingles to replace existing asphalt shingles. One famous company known for this is Tesla, they have innovated the solar shingle category and enhanced it with a 24/7 monitoring app. You are able to manage your solar system and energy consumption all from your phone, showing in real time each rise and fall of usage.

BIPV allows homeowners to reap the full potential of a solar powered roof without the draw backs of an unpleasant rack-mounted solar system on their roof. Many people have steered away from solar energy simply because it doesn’t look great on a home. As you can see what Tesla has done along with other companies, was to create a seamless beautiful roof without even knowing solar panels were there.

Another positive attribution to solar roofing systems, is that its increase in popularity has brought together roofing manufactures and solar installers. Previously each category was separate, now contractors are beginning to merge and train for both roofing and solar installation. This is great for the homeowner to be able to have solar installed with a highly knowledgeable roofing contractor, who knows the anatomy of a roof. You can look around and see if you have a local roofing & solar company for your installation.

Most states even cut tax breaks for homeowners that choose to have solar installed, in New York the federal tax credit gives a dollar-for-dollar reduction or a 30% credit. The value of the tax credit with decrease in 2021 to 26% and thereafter 22%. After the year 2021 the solar tax credit for residential homes ends.

Commercial Wind Energy is Poised for a Five-Year Boom - Clean USA Power

Some states and local governments even offer cash rebates to homeowners who decide to purchase solar for their roofs. Usually these types of rebates or incentives are only available for a limited time so it’s best to take advantage if you see them in your area. In some cases these cash rebates can help reduce your solar system costs by 10-20%. Check with your local roofing & Solar company for more information.

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.  

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.

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

Latest Roofing Trends

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Latest Roofing Trends In The Roofing Industry

As we all know, the top roofing trends can change from year to year. This means that some homeowners would love to get ahead of the game. Therefore, let’s take a look at some of the most popular trends from 2019 that we will be seeing more of in 2020 and into 2021. Knowing a few roofing trends might help you find some inspiration when you decide to get a full roof replacement.

A consultation with your local roofing company will help you find a solution that adds value to your property and also complement your home’s decor with your desired style and appearance. Thanks to the latest technology and new roofing innovations, these 2019 roofing trends are only growing in popularity.

What are the best roofing systems? How are they trending?


Mixed Material Roofing

There are a lot of popular and latest roofing trends. One of them being mixed material roofing- combining metal and shingle roofs is one of the latest architectural trends. Some homeowners may realize that standing seam metal roofs and flat seam metal roofs are consistently one of the popular choices for reroofing and new roofs. The newest metal roofing trendsetter is a Hybrid Metal and Shingle Roofing System. The combination of metal roof panels and laminated shingles on separate pitched roof sections delivers the visual bang of a metal roof at a much lower cost. 

Solar Panels and Solar Shingles

The rise in the popularity of solar power has people continuously expressed a desire to have more options in terms of solar products. The average homeowner is starting to wonder how much solar could save and how simple making the switch could really be. Increasing your home’s energy efficiency, minimizing your carbon footprint and saving on your energy bills makes going solar very appealing to many people.

When solar panels first became available, they had a very clumsy appearance, lack of energy efficiency and were extremely expensive. Making the switch back then just did not seem worth it. Eventually, technology development has allowed solar roofing to become a much more legitimate option for residential homes. Modern solar panels look very stylish and striking, are very energy efficient and are now much more affordable.

The cost of these materials has fallen dramatically in recent years, although it is still by no means a cheap solution. However, as the technology continues to improve, you can expect the benefits to increase and the costs to go down even more. New York is also one of the top states in the country for offering considerable state and federal solar incentives.

Cool Roofing

One of the latest trends local roofing companies get asked about is cool roofing. It is a relatively new technique. Cool roofs have the ability to reflect the visible, infrared and ultraviolet wavelengths of the sun, therefore reducing the heat transfer to the building.  It also has the ability to radiate absorbed, or non-reflected solar energy. The best thing about this technique is that it can be applied to a variety of roofing materials, colors, and designs to not only enhance curb appeal but also fit your unique style. A cool roof can significantly improve your energy efficiency, reduce your power bills and reduce wear and tear on your HVAC system. It can also make being inside a lot more comfortable.

Metal Roofs

As a top local roofing contractor, each year we’ve seen a steep rise in the popularity of metal roofing materials. This is definitely a trend we’ll be seeing more of in 2020 and beyond. Due to its aesthetic appeal and functionally, various homeowners with different home types request for metal roofs. 

Metal roofs give homeowners a chance to achieve the exact look that they want for their homes since there are a lot of styles, types, and colors to choose from. Metal roofing is stylish and able to mimic other expensive materials through metal shaping and finishing. Also, the metal roof still has a long lifespan without needing any regular maintenance. While the initial expenses for its installation can cost two to three times more than asphalt, homeowners can save money long-term as the highly reflective and insulative aspect of metal roofing reduces heating and cooling costs.

As many people are highly concerned with the environment, metal roofing materials such as aluminum and steel hold much appeal as it contains high percentages of recycled content. Aluminum roofs are also 100 percent recyclable, so there’s no need to worry about roofing materials being dumped in landfills. Thanks to its incredible durability, a metal roof is also a great choice for homeowners concerned with storm damage and costly roofing storm repairs.

Designer Options

This is a varied approach that’s not limited to a single style, material, or design. Instead, a designer roof is one that is built with specific qualities. Live in a storm heavy environment? A designer roof can be installed with storm protection in mind. Live in wildfire heavy areas? Roofs that are fire resistant are available to meet your needs. This is one trend that won’t go away thanks to its high level of customization and sustainability. 

Concrete

Today, homeowners want style, texture, and above all durability so they don’t have to worry about costly roofing repairs. With concrete tiles, those desires are easily satisfied. Although extremely heavy, the tiles are incredibly durable and versatile.

Green Roof (or Living Roof)

A more uncommon option right now, but one that is continually growing in popularity, is the living roof. We all know that moss, fungi, and other plant life are hazardous to the roof’s health. However, with professional installation, you can actually have plant life as your roof’s visible exterior, thanks to the protective materials underneath. Homeowners are finding this option saves them money on their energy bill thanks to the extra insulation provided with this roofing choice.

These green roofing systems are easy to distinguish with their multiple layers of engineered soil, protective fabric, a waterproof membrane, and a layer of vegetation to top it all off. The plant life doesn’t just add to the overall aesthetic of your property, it also comes with a multitude of benefits for your home and environment. 

Green roofs can be more expensive to install, but they can save you money in the long run. Their insulating properties lowers your home’s electricity bill, and they require very low maintenance. Green roofs work best on a sloped roof where if it storms, plants can absorb some water and drain the excess.

Synthetic Materials

The traditional asphalt shingles are desirable because they’re cheap. Slate, shake, metal, and other sturdier materials are much more expensive. Synthetic shingles made out of recyclable materials such as plastic and rubber are today’s best choices for more sustainable roofing that’s eco friendly. The material can be shaped and designed to look like the more expensive options, but at a fraction of the cost. In addition, the energy efficiency and overall of the product is nothing to scoff at. 

With the roof playing such an essential part of the home, it’s no wonder that people are always looking for ways to help it stand out. After all, just because a roof is meant to protect your home, doesn’t mean it can’t look good too. This idea has led to some new and innovative roofing possibilities. You may notice that some of these trends that will be listed were popular in the year 2019.

Asphalt Shingles

For decades, asphalt shingles have been the roofing material of choice for many homeowners, and it’s still going to stay by 2020. Asphalt is a sturdy material with a long lifespan and withstands even the most severe shifts in weather. But besides its excellent performance, these shingles have always been popular because of its affordability. 

While they don’t last as long as metal roofing, a good asphalt roof can still last for a long time. Just perform regular maintenance to increase its lifespan for even longer.

Lighter Colors 

Gone are the days when people should favor a dark colored roof over a light roof. Some people may be tired of having to look at dark, drab roofs all the time. Also, recently roofing manufacturers have become increasingly aware how much dark colors absorb rather than reflect the sun’s rays. Lighter colors are much better for your building’s energy efficiency. Lighter roofs cost less to cool and you have more control over the heating process. The longevity of the roofing materials can also be increased, since the sun’s UV rays can be destructive over time.

This means such roofs are emerging as a very popular style choice as well as an economical one. Many roof shingles are being produced in shades of soft greens, warm blues, and even neutral colors like taupe, beige and off white. While dark neutral or brown tones will never go out of style, light colors have been gaining popularity every year and are expected to gain more traction for the years to come. However, if you still prefer a dark-colored roof, you can still just add a hint of color to your roof without turning it into a terrible eyesore.

Residential Flat Roofing

As modern styles become more and more popular, local roofing contractors are now seeing flat roofs have also entered the trends for residential homes. Their style perfectly fits into the minimalistic approach many people are favoring these days.

Flat roofs are generally less expensive compared to other roof types and offer more design choices. You can also add solar panels and turn it into a green roof without too many additional expenses. Additionally, they’re easier to install, safer, and more accessible than any other roof type. It’s also possible to utilize a flat roof as an additional living and recreational area for you and your family.


The future of the roofing industry is looking bright, with new innovations and technologies becoming available all the time. The best local roofing companies will keep up with these new trends and keep you informed of the best roofing solutions available for your requirements. Call us today to discuss your options, 518-444-ROOF.

Top 25 Roofing Mistakes

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Top 25 Roofing Mistakes

There are many common mistakes we have seen over the years as top rated local roofing contractors. There is a huge difference between an experienced local roofing contractor and some cowboy or someone just starting out in the roofing industry. This difference is never more evident than in the work that is produced and the problems that can arise if someone doesn’t quite know what they are doing or if they are trying to cut corners. A little knowledge can be a dangerous thing!

Here are the top 25 roofing mistakes from our roofing industry experience:

  1. Shingle alignment – Shingles are meant to be installed in straight lines and a uniform manner. This is second nature for an experienced roofing company, but you would be surprised how hard it is for an inexperienced contractor that’s just starting out. Roofs installed this way will look odd and it will ruin your curb appeal, but that’s not all! If your roof was improperly installed, the roof’s lifespan could be reduced. Plus, if they couldn’t get that right, who knows what else they messed up!

  2. Counter flashing – Most people just install it upside-down because it’s easier. Then they just fill the top end with caulk, which is bad because the caulk won’t last long. Then in 5-10 years when the caulk wears out, the chimney leaks. The right way to install it is to cut in a reglet line with a grinder and a masonry wheel, then to bend the metal at a 90-degree angle and insert it into the reglet. This will cause water to actually use the flashing, counting on the metal instead of a line of caulking.

  3. Reusing old flashing – The main purpose of flashing is to prevent any moisture from getting into your home. When getting a roof replacement, cutting corners by using old flashing is a big no! Some roofers would do this in order to cut costs, however, it would only be costly in the long run and not prevent moisture penetration. This will only lead you to call out the contractor again because your roof is leaking.

  4. No ice & water in the valleys – Some people will cheap out and not apply ice and water to the roof valleys. Roof valleys experience the most water flow on the whole roof, so without ice and water, the roof will eventually leak. Don’t pay out all that money but not get a complete job done! Fixing these issues will only cost you later.

  5. Pipe collars often leak because there’s no ice and water – You’re supposed to put a 3×3 square of ice and water around the pipe, straight to the decking. After that is applied, you put flashing over the ice and water. Then you put the second piece of ice and water barrier over the top and sides of the pipe flashing. Shingle then goes over the top. This is how to correctly seal pipe collars. Most roofers leave out the second ice and water and some don’t even do any!

  6. Ridge vents not being hand-nailed which allows for them to blow off – Ridge vents are about an inch thick, shingles are about an eighth of an inch thick. Standard roofing coil nails are only an inch and a quarter long and barely penetrate the decking if used on Ridge vent. The correct way is to do a 2 and a half inch hand nail, which ensures fastening fully through 3/4 inch plywood.

  7. Not cutting the ridge vent in for proper ventilation – Many times when removing outdated box vents and installing Ridge vents instead, when installing a ridge vent for the first time you need to cut the plywood back away from the ridge beam. It needs at least an inch and a half opening for proper ventilation. This ventilation system only works in conjunction with vented soffits.

  8. Not nailing down seams on plywood – Once the shingles are removed, you can accidentally pull out the nails that were holding down the plywood. This can cause a seam to become loose and pop up. Which you will be able to see as a bump when the roof is finished. If you have lines that are protruding out of the shingles it means that somebody did not nail down the plywood properly.

  9. Not replacing plywood that is old or rotted – Plywood that is halfway rotted may look fine when a new roof is installed over it, but 5-10 years later it can start sagging in between the rafters. The roof can then look wavy on the bottoms of eaves that should have been replaced.

  10. Not installing ice and water under step flashing – In the winter when ice dams occur, water will back up under step flashing and leak if not protected by ice and water barrier. The step flashing is located at the wall to roof transitions.

  11. Not removing debris from roof before underlayment and shingles are applied – Sometimes leftover nails can be left on the deck creating a bump if the roof is installed over this. Later this can tear through the roof. We use a leaf blower to ensure that all debris is swept clear.

  12. Not protecting landscaping and yard furniture – Grills and umbrellas, patio furniture and landscaping need to be pulled away from the roof house. Tarps need to be pulled taut from the eave of the roof past landscaping so shingles can slide over without causing any damage.

  13. Nail pattern on shingles – When shingling you want to have an 8 to 10 inch space between the first and second nail, which allows the seam on the course above that shingle to not have a nail under the seam which would allow water to get in and rust out that nail.

  14. Scrimping on nails – Using too few nails or not nailing shingles in correctly can allow the shingles to slip down or blow away, leaving your roof exposed.

  15. Nail placement – Nails are supposed to be placed low on the shingle line, directly above the gussets. When the nails are placed low, they go through the course below them too. When the nails are too high, it misses the second course of shingles and allows shingles to be blown up easier. Shingle manufacturer guidelines should always be followed for where the nails need to be placed.

  16. Nailing too close to the valley – Nails are supposed to be a minimum of 8-12 inches from the valley. Some people nail right in the valley which will leak eventually.

  17. Insufficient contractor insurance – If the property was to be damaged during your roofing project or a worker was injured, the homeowner can be left with the bag if the contractor did not carry enough insurance to pay for the damages. A professional and well-respected roofing company will confirm that they are insured for the amount they claim.

  18. Hiring the wrong contractor – A huge mistake that a homeowner could make is hiring a cheap roofing contractor. Building a house comes with a lot of expenses. Therefore hiring the cheapest roofing contractors is a big mistake and can lead to poor quality work. Most of them would lack knowledge and experience in a high-quality roofing installation. Therefore, looking for a contractor with a well-respected reputation, valid license, warranties, insurance, and positive reviews from their past client is essential.

  19. Old Shingles being covered rather than being replaced – This is one of the largest corners that lower quality roofing companies will cut. The proper way to replace a portion or even the whole roof is to remove all of the old shingles and replace them with new ones. Especially when the shingles were completely damaged. When you are putting new shingles on top of old shingles you are only creating places for moisture and dirt to collect. This will lead to deterioration and damage more quickly than if it was done properly. Tearing off the old shingle layers also allows for proper inspection of the roof deck to ensure that there are no issues there that cannot be seen when covered.

  20. Leaving out the starter strip or applying it incorrectly – You would be risking water infiltration at the eaves and shingles from the first row can be blown off. Therefore, if you are missing the starter strip, sliding a new piece under the shingles would be your best bet. The starter strip should be secured with nails and glued with bituminous mastic.

  21. Improper installation of underlayment – This is another very common issue. Roofing underlayment is a layer of water-resistant or waterproof material that is installed directly onto your roof deck. Therefore it is applied under all other roofing materials as an added layer of protection.

  22. Inadequate ventilation – Roofer’s who don’t know what they are doing would usually neglect the attic and not realize that your attic has improper ventilation. When there isn’t proper attic ventilation, moisture can build up over time causing your roofing system to prematurely wear out, therefore, running your insulation, resulting in increased energy bills.

  23. Missing drip edge – Some roofers may not install a drip edge therefore, water drips behind your gutter system. Drip edge is a key component to any roof system. Drip edge is a metal flashing installed under the first row of shingles on a roof slope. Drip edge has a projecting lip which directs the flow of water into the gutter system. A drip edge allows any moisture to trickle down from the roof into the gutter system, so the roof is not soaked from standing water and other problems that can occur, such as rot, mold growth, stains, basement flooding, and foundation issues. Drip edge should be installed on the lower eave of your roofing system underneath the ice and water shield. The drip edge also provides an extra bonding edge for the ice and water membrane to adhere to.

  24. Inappropriate shingle overhang – Too much overhang will lead to the shingles blowing off in high winds; too little overhang and you will leave your roof exposed to water infiltration and leaks.

  25. Using materials inappropriate for the roof’s pitch – Materials that don’t match the slope of your roof leaves your home vulnerable to water infiltration. For example, a minimum slope of four units of rise per twelve units of run is recommended for asphalt, wood, or tile shingles and shakes.

So now you know what issues to look out for when you get a new roof. Always make sure you call in an experienced local roofing contractor for your roofing project. A new roof is not cheap, but trying to save money and cut corners will only cost you more in the long run. You must consider the lifetime cost of the roof and also the headaches caused when something goes wrong. Don’t risk your home on just a small saving now.

If you wish to book a roof consultation with a trusted local roofing contractor, call us today on 518-44-ROOF!

Visit our main website for more information:
https://www.infiniteroofingny.com

The Benefits of Hiring a GAF Master Elite Contractor

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Choosing the right roofing company for a roof repair or replacement project is very important. It’s very important because the quality of the installation will have a significant impact on the performance and longevity of your entire roofing system. Our residential roof installers are the top choice for local homeowners because of our excellent workmanship. Recognizing our skills, GAF has named us a GAF Master Elite roofing contractor. Find out how this certification can benefit you and why it is one of the best certifications for roofing contractors.

What is a Master Elite Certification?

The Master Elite Certification is GAF’s factory certification program. With this certification program, it provides training for roofing contractors in order to provide assurance that your roof will be installed correctly and professionally. Just 3 percent of roofing contractors have been qualified as a Master Elite roofing contractor. Therefore, you can be assured that you’ll be dealing with a quality, dependable professional contractor.

What Does This Mean?

Infinite Roofing is qualified as a Master Elite contractor, which means we are able to provide our customers with the most inclusive warranties in the roofing business. With the warranties that come with a Master Elite certification, it gives our customers the peace of mind to know that no matter what happens, your roof will be taken care of. Even if you decide to not purchase any of our inclusive warranties, you should know that there will still be quality materials being installed on your roof and you will be receiving the highest quality workmanship in the business. Not to mention all of our work comes with a 10 year in-house warranty for all workmanship. Now that’s the Infinite Guarantee.

Exceptional Craftsmanship and Customer Service

When it comes to being a Master Elite certified roofing contractor, there are some strict requirements that are provided to qualify for this distinction. A few of the strict requirements are that they must obtain the necessary license in order to perform any roofing projects under the master elite certification. They should have insurance in order to protect homeowners from liability. More importantly, they should have a good reputation, such as a high rating with the Better Business Bureau. This is important because no one wants a roofer whose reputation is horrible working on their roof. Having met all these requirements, we can guarantee the best possible services for your project. 

Wide Range of Product Offerings

The continuous training we receive through GAF has given us mastery level knowledge in the installation, repair and maintenance of GAF’s full line of roofing products. That’s why GAF has entrusted us to offer all of their products to our local customers. The shingles that we provide are available in a variety of different colors and are designed to enhance your home’s architectural style. Our high-quality roofing products will improve your home’s weather resistance and energy efficiency. 

Warranties

GAF offers three levels of worry-free warranties. The Golden Pledge Warranty is the most inclusive warranty available. It covers 100% of all manufacturer defects for up to 50 years or the lifetime of the shingles. The Golden Pledge also covers workmanship defects for up to 25 to 30 years. This includes tear-off costs, as well as disposal costs. Any repairs needed due to manufacturer defects or poor workmanship will be completed by a GAF Master Elite Roofing Contractor, ensuring that you will get the highest quality work possible. Golden Pledge is a one-time transferable warranty.

The Silver pledge warranty is another warranty that is offered by GAF and it is the mid level warranty offered by GAF Master Elite contractors. Up-front coverage is 100 percent and extends up to 50 years for the entire roofing system. When it comes to the cost of installation and workmanship, labor is another thing that is included in the warranty. The warranty also comes with 10 years workmanship coverage which covers the misapplication of the shingles and/or the accessories that go with it. The Golden and Silver Pledge also have a 40 point inspection that is completed after the conclusion of your roof installation. It is performed by one of the independent Master Elite roofing inspectors to ensure that your new roof meets all the necessary and vital specifications that are approved under your warranty. Now, if you were to decide to sell your home or move to another region or area, your Golden or Silver Pledge Warranty is transferable to the next owner of your home. There are stipulations that must be approved under your warranty. 

The Systems Plus Warranty is the lowest level warranty that GAF offers and does not require the contractor to be a Master Elite, but does require a basic GAF certification. It covers 100% of all manufacturer defects for the entire lifetime of the shingle, but does not come with any workmanship coverage. Systems Plus covers tear-off costs, but it does not cover the cost of disposal. It is a one-time transferable warranty.

GAF Golden Pledge Warranty

A professional roof replacement involves a significant amount of time and money. To make the most of this investment, make sure that your new roof system comes with a solid warranty. One prime example of extensive roof warranties is the Golden Pledge option from GAF, North America’s leading roof manufacturer. Only a GAF Master Elite roofing contractor like Infinite Roofing can offer the Golden Pledge Warranty to homeowners of the Capital Region. We’re not just your expert in roof repairs and replacements. When you turn to us for your roof replacement, we’ll make sure you benefit from this warranty’s rewarding features. Features such as the 50 year material warranty. With Golden Pledge, you’re guaranteed that your new roof can provide reliable weather protection and lasting performance. This option covers the entire roof system, offering a non-prorated, 50 year coverage on materials. You won’t have to worry about material defects, which can cause your roof to fail sooner. 

There is also a minimum 25 year workmanship guarantee. GAF stands by our workmanship for more than 20 years. As a provider of expert roofing services, Infinite Roofing meets the stringent requirements and rigorous training set by this manufacturer. With the latest, most efficient roofing practices and methods, we’ll install your new roof perfectly the first time. Additionally, Golden pledge comes with a 40 point inspection by GAF’s independent inspectors. They’ll make sure that your new system’s installation adheres to their quality standards. 

Eligibility Requirements for the Golden Pledge Warranty

You must install a full roof; roofs installed on portions of buildings such as half a roof on a duplex structure do not qualify. Your roof must be installed by a GAF Master Elite roofing contractor. The roof system must not be installed over an existing roof. All existing materials must be removed to the deck. You must use the GAF Leak Barrier in valleys and around dormers, side walls, firewalls, chimneys, plumbing vents, and skylights . Leak Barriers are highly recommended but not required at all roof rakes and other vulnerable leak areas.You can learn more about the eligibility requirements on GAF’s website. 

Why Should I Choose a Master Elite Roofing Contractor?

Professional Installation and Repair

The number one reason you should seek out a Master Elite roofing contractor is that you will be certain to receive the highest quality service imaginable. Keep in mind that a Master Elite roofing contractor needs to have a customer satisfaction rating of 99 percent, therefore, this means that every client that we come across will be happy with what we have to offer. Since they will continue their education and training, any Master Elite contractor you hire will be able to continue providing high-quality installation and repair services.

Superior Protection and the Best Warranties

Since a Master Elite contractor will always be able to provide the best possible service, they will also be able to provide some of the best warranties in the roofing industry. These warranties will ensure that your roof is kept up to GAF factory standards, with many including the option for a factory inspection of your finished roof.

As for physical protection of your home, a Master Elite contractor will be able to provide one of the industry’s leading products in home protection thanks to GAF’s Weather Stopper Roof Protection System. This system is designed to deliver a lifetime of protection from severe weather thanks to a state-of-the-art leak barrier, attic ventilation, and ridge cap shingles to keep your roof safe and dry even during the worst storms of the summer or winter.

The Safest Option

When you have a new roof installed in your home, or have your existing roof repaired, you want to make sure that it is always safe for you and your family. That is a big part of providing high-quality roofing service, which is why hiring a Master Elite contractor is the most reliable option for your home. Our Master Elite contractors must be certified in all safety standards set by the NRCA and OSHA.

How Does a Contractor Become a GAF Master Elite?

In order to become certified as a GAF Master Elite roofing contractor, a roofing contractor needs to show that they are properly licensed by their state or province to perform roofing work and have a minimum of 7 years as a professional roofing contractor. The roofing contractor should be adequately insured for their protection. They should be able pass all of GAF’s financial background checks as well as having a proven reputation for providing quality roofing services throughout the community. Lastly they should be committed to ongoing professional training to ensure ongoing quality installation. 

How To Find Chimney Leaks

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As a homeowner, you know that keeping the mechanisms of your house regularly maintenanced and well groomed is important. This is extremely true when it comes to your fireplace and chimney. As a chimney being part of your homes structure, if your chimney is damaged or leaking it can lead to some serious costly problems if it is left neglected. A regular maintenance and inspection from your trusted Albany roofers is a greater way to catch and fix any problems that may have occurred without your notice. 

Now, you may be wondering what are the common chimney failure points, well the most common areas that chimneys fail are 

  • Base Flashing  (where the roofing and chimney meet) 
  • Step flashing that is installed under the shingles and over the ice and water barrier. 
  • Counter flashing
  • Within the brick veneer, stone veneer, and exterior insulation
  • Chimney cap
  • Vent stacks and flues

Is it normal for rain to come down the chimney?

If there is a sound of dripping coming from your chimney after a heavy rain storm or you notice moisture and stains on the wall there is an issue. Therefore, you must contact either a qualified roofing installer or a chimney repair specialist. Rainwater trickling into your fireplace is not normal. In fact, it is a telltale sign that there is an issue within your chimney system. The chimney is a much more complicated structure than most people realize. For this reason pinpointing the exact source of the leak can be challenging. Therefore, when it comes to detecting the source of the problem, contacting any professional roofers in your area, especially roofers in Albany is the best resort. Below are some signs to look for and the reasons why your chimney would be leaking. 

Signs of water in your chimney

To fix a leaky chimney the first thing that should happen is finding where the problem is and how it happend. Some appear extremely obvious leaving puddles in your fireplace. Then there are the less obvious signs of chimney leaks which most likely is damaging your chimney. Visually inspect the bricks of your chimney. When you are visually inspecting the chimney, you should be looking for spalling. Spalling is when the surface of the brick is flaking away, it looks cracked, broken and is missing some or a lot of bricks. With that being said you would see some pieces of brick or stones on your roof. The reason that spalling happens in your chimney is because it sustained water or moisture damage. Too much moisture penetrating the mortar can result in spalling. 

The other sign of water damage is efflorescence. When it comes to efflorescence it is a lot easier to spot because it results in white residue on your chimney bricks. The white residue is salt deposits that are caused by the migration of salt to the surface of your bricks. It also can occur due to rain, but it can also come from condensation forming within your chimney. 

The reason that chimneys leak 

If there is a pool of water or signs of water in your chimney, there could be a few things that are going wrong. The easiest way of detecting and repairing a leaking chimney is calling your local roofing contractor. If you feel safe on a ladder or have easy access to the chimney then these are some signs to look for yourself. 

  • Cracked or torn chimney flashing. The flashing is the material that surrounds the part of your chimney that meets with the rooftop. Flashing is typically aluminum, sealed with tar, which bends over the sides of your chimney and shingles. Flashing keeps water from entering the cracks between your chimney and roof. If you see cracks or tears in your flashing, this could be allowing water to enter during rainstorms. 
  • Deteriorating mortar. The mortar that holds the brick, stone, or stucco of your chimney together plays an important role in waterproofing the system. If your mortar is cracked, missing pieces, worn away, or otherwise damaged, it could be allowing water inside. Cracks in the mortar can occur naturally over time. Repairing mortar right away can prevent worse water damage from occurring. 
  • Lack of chimney cap. The chimney cap is an accessory, not a necessity. However, buying a chimney cap that fits your chimney can prevent rain from falling straight down the chimney stack and into your fireplace. A chimney cover can prevent water leaks and other things such as falling leaves or birds from clogging your chimney. 
  • Cracked chimney crown. The crown of your chimney is the surface as its very top, typically made of cement. If you see cracks in your chimney crown, this could be the source of water in your fireplace. Cracks can allow water to seep through the flue lining and enter the chimney, causing potential damage to your walls and ceiling. If caught soon enough, a professional can seal cracks instead of having to replace the crown entirely. 
  • Issues with wood siding. Your home’s siding could affect the performance of your chimney and fireplace. If you have wood siding that’s warped, peeling away from your home, or missing, this can allow water to get behind the siding and leak into your chimney. Replacing or repairing your siding can prevent these types of water leaks.   
  • Check the chimney cap. If you don’t have a chimney cap then you will need to get one. Without one, water can easily get into the firebox and drip down the walls of the flue liner at will causing your fireplace to drip and sometimes pool water. Damage to an existing chimney cap can also be a water issue and may need to be repaired or replaced if the damage is beyond repair. If you need to replace a cap get one that is rust resistant like a stainless chimney cap. Rusting caps are always a problem and will eventually break down and need to be replaced. If you get the right one the first time you should not have to deal with this issue again. 

Is chimney waterproofing necessary?

Masonry chimneys are mainly built with bricks or stone bonded with mortar, a cement material, that forms a sturdy and practically impenetrable structure.  But like most structures, water is a mortal enemy that can bring down a chimney like a falling deck of cards. However, keep in mind that all masonry chimney construction materials, except for stone, will end up suffering from accelerated deterioration, due to prolonged contact with water.

The reason is because bricks are composed of clay which is a soft and porous material. During the brick-making process a waterproof hard outer shell is backed in to prevent the bricks from soaking up water. However, if the material continues to be exposed to periods of different temperatures and wind, rain and snow, it can take a beating that will eventually begin to pierce the outer layer of the bricks. Without waterproofing the chimney tine holes will begin to form in the brick surface like a sponge that will gradually grow larger allowing water to penetrate the flue and damage other chimney components. 

In addition, excessive exposure to moisture will also soften the mortar. Left untreated it will eventually melt away where you may notice gaps between the bricks or stone masonry that will also enable water leak inside the chimney. In extreme cases where chimneys have not been maintained for years it is not unusual to spot missing bricks and mortar. The chimney may also begin to lean as the foundation shifts due to its weight. This can also damage the structure of the home as the chimney pulls apart from flashing material attached to the roof. 

As a result chimney masonry should be protected from exposure to water. That’s why many chimney professionals recommend homeowners apply waterproof sealer to protect the chimney from water damage. It’s important that the waterproof coating will wear over time and gradually lose its effectiveness. So for optimum performance, waterproofing should be reapplied every five years by your local roofer in Albany or any roofers in your area if you are not located in the Albany area.

Coated or painted chimneys

If you own a chimney and have had the copper flashing replaced you should reseal the existing chimney to prevent any further leakage. Hiring the wrong contractor, any old painter, or someone who uses a sealing product that is not meant for exterior masonry can cause more issues down the road if it counteracts with cement. Coating the chimney is meant to be used as a last resort and should only be used for sealing a leaking chimney and will not be of any help for structural support or loose bricks. 

How do I stop my chimney from leaking?

When you have roof flashing around chimneys it can separate from the brick, therefore, allowing rainwater to leak inside the house. If your chimney flashing is leaking or loose here are some things you do. First thing is to clean any leaves or other debris out of the gap between the flashing chimney. You should use a chisel to remove any hardened roofing cement. Apply roofing cement behind the flashing and use masonry nails or screws to reattach the flashing tight against the chimney. 

Last Thoughts!

Water in your chimney is not a normal thing, and it is certainly not anything that should be ignored. A leaky chimney can cause a lot of damage as mentioned above. To avoid any moisture damage that would cause your bricks to collapse into the chimney and clog it, contact your local roofers in Albany. If you’re not in the Albany area just simply search roofing companies near me and find the roofing contractor that will work on your chimney. No homeowners should have to deal with a clogged chimney that can further create a dangerous situation like carbon monoxide leaks in your home.