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

Roofing Safety: Roof Safety Tips

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Roofing Safety Tips
Infinite Roofing and Construction

Based on OSHA’s fall prevention campaign, they summarize the proper roofing safety practices as “Plan, Provide and Train”, which is something that Infinite Roofing provides to all our work crews. This simply means:

  • Plan – In order to get the job done properly, roofing contractors need a roof safety plan for each worksite, making sure that they have the proper equipment, material and having the appropriately trained workers. Also, the contractors knowing the pitch of the roof and following the appropriate procedure for a low or steep slope roof. Doing this provides a better and thorough roofing safety plan. 
  • Provide – Roofing Contractors must be trained to have the right pieces of equipment, such as the types of ladders, scaffolds, and safety gear. 
  • Train – Roofers must be trained on how to use each equipment that is used for the job. They must be trained in hazard recognition as well as the care and safety of ladders, scaffolds and other equipment that they will be using on the job. 

Fall Protection Requirements 

Falls are very common when it comes to roofing, they are a leading cause of work-related injuries and deaths to the workers. When a roofer is working six feet or above, this puts each roofer at risk of serious injury or even death if they were to fall. When it comes to Infinite Roofing we focus on those dangers and make sure that we avoid the lack of fall protection or the improper setup that will increase their risk of falling from a height.

Fall Protection Training 

Commercial roofing contractors must provide fall protection training for all workers who would be exposed to the chances of falling. The training must be conducted by a person who is competent and has good knowledge within the roofing industry. The information that would be provided should include information on how to recognize fall hazards and the procedures to follow in order to minimize the chances of serious incidents occurring. As a professional roofing contractor, Infinite Roofing always ensures that all our workers follow all steps to ensure they stay safe.

Roofing Safety Practice and Equipment

The best commercial roofing company to hire is one that focuses on safety and is aware of the following:

  • Ladder Safety & Placement:  An experienced Albany roofer will have the proper ladder lengths so that it could be placed against the house at a safe angle. They would also make sure that the ladders are inspected by a competent person for any visible defects on a regular basis. They would take extra care that all footing of the ladder is secured and that the top is tied to prevent any slipping or shifting. 
  • Safety Equipment: Other safety equipment should be used when it comes to roofing, such as using a guardrail system, scaffolding, and fall arrest systems that would include anchorage, safety harnesses and safety lines. 
  • Safety Practices: In the demolition phase, roofing contractors should always protect their workers on the ground from falling debris by controlling how it leaves the roof. According to OSHA, wearing appropriate footwear is a piece of important protective equipment and critical during roof demolition. Workers should also be careful with air hoses and power cords when using nail guns and other electrical equipment. 
  • Training: Roofing is a trained skill that also requires experience to fully master. Therefore, a good contractor will make sure that all their workers have been fully trained in each practice and are completely up to date with any new safety guidelines and standards. The employers must appoint a qualified person to train workers. They need to be provided with ongoing safety training that focuses on that specific type of worksite as well as general roofing safety training. Employers must also appoint a competent person to train workers who construct, disassemble, repair, inspect scaffolds to recognize any potential hazards. Training should also be provided in a language that the workers being trained can understand.

Roofer Tool Safety

When roofing it all comes down to the tools that you are using, therefore, power tools and equipment that is used can be extremely hazardous and can cause severe injuries if used incorrectly. Furthermore, employers can reduce the risk of injuries by simply providing the correct tool guards and trained workers. Which makes a huge improvement in the roofing safety plan.  

Power tools such as nail guns, saws, etc. should have the proper shields, guards, or safety attachments that are specified by the manufacturer. Employers must also ensure that each worker using power tools is wearing appropriate eye protection. Therefore, every local roofing contractor should replace a tool guard that is missing or has been damaged in order to provide safety for their workers. 

All workers must be able to properly use each tool and that they are properly trained. It is very important to discuss tool safety features, safe operating procedures, and work practices, such as proper body placement. Roofers in Albany must ensure all procedures are carefully followed when it comes down to each tool that is used.

Personal Protective Equipment

With any construction job, every local roofing contractor has a duty to protect its workers from hazards and injuries. However, where the hazard cannot be eliminated by other types of controls such as engineering or administrative controls, the local roofing contractor must ensure that workers wear the appropriate PPE.  

The typical PPE used with various roofing tools and equipment is nail guns, generator/air compressor, shingle stripper, tin snips, power saw, etc.

  • Nail Guns: When using a nail gun, workers must wear protection (particularly eye protection), in order to prevent the nail gun from causing severe, irreparable injury. Also, always avoid carrying it against the body or with a finger on the trigger.
  • Generator/air compressor: It’s important to wear eye protection and other protection while working near any pressurized equipment.
  • Shingle Stripper: Always make sure you’re wearing the proper footwear and eye protection.
  • Tin snips: It’s extremely important to wear work gloves and safety glasses when discarding waste or any scrap metal.
  • Power saw: Making sure you’re wearing hearing protection, eye protection, and work gloves. Ensuring that guards are placed and functioning properly.

Weather Conditions

During the fall and winter time weather conditions can become very hazardous. Especially when it comes to the high winds, wet weather, and icy conditions. Roofing safety plans become importance at that point. Therefore local roofing contractors should consider suspending any operations in bad weather. Mainly when working on any type of roofing surface that could be slippery when it’s wet, which includes slate, tile, metal roofs. Furthermore, as local roofing contractors, we always do our utmost to promote safety and avoid working in serious weather conditions.

Why is a Fall protection Harness Important?

In order to prevent any falls, using a fall protection harness is the way to go. As mentioned before, falling while working on any roof is one of the most common reasons for roofer injuries. Therefore, when a harness is being used it is carefully engineered to work alongside the lanyard, rope-grab, rope, and roof anchor. Roofers in Albany, such as Infinite Roofing, always make sure that all our workers wear the right equipment, especially harnesses to prevent any serious injuries. 

Safe Debris Disposal

All local roofing contractors must consider worker and bystander safety when it comes to selecting a method for handling debris, which is scattered pieces of remains or waste. A common cause of debris from a roof is the removal of old roof shingles before working on a new roof installation. When debris is not managed properly it can result in a trip hazard and contribute to falls. An effective method that professional roofing contractors can use to manage the remains or waste that is on the roof is to use a forklift to raise a collection box to roof level. Therefore, when the box is full, or when the job is completely done, the box would be lowered to the ground without any of the contractors being put at risk. Another common method is to thoroughly cordon off the area where the work is taking place to ensure that nobody wanders into a dangerous area by mistake.

To sum it up

Knowing all safety guidelines and procedures can be very involved and it is very important that local roofing contractors know all safety requirements before they hit that roof. Being properly trained, forming a roof safety plan and knowing what makes each worker safe will make a hazardous job so much safer!

Metal Roofing Vs Shingles

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Metal Roofing Vs Shingles
Metal Roofing Vs Shingles

Where you live is more than just a basic shelter. The roof can be what makes the difference between a house and a safe, secure home. A roofing system should fit the structural design, protect you from the elements, and insulate you from the cold of winter and the summer’s heat. We will discuss the difference between metal roofing systems and asphalt shingles, so you can pick which one would be a better choice for your home.

Varieties

Metal roofing systems come in a variety of styles, largely dependent on the metal used and coatings applied. Aluminum is a metal that needs no coating. Steel, on the other hand, requires specialized treatment to prevent rusting. Other options for your property are zinc, stainless steel, titanium and copper roofing.

Asphalt shingles come in two varieties, the traditional organic ones and the newer fiberglass shingles. The difference is in their layered make-up. There is a 3 core fiberglass covered with an asphalt layer in the fiberglass shingles and the organic shingles have a heavy felt layer under the asphalt.

Roofing Materials - Choose the right look for your property

Appearance

The layered look of asphalt shingles is by far the more popular of the two types. The vast majority of homes in the United States has asphalt shingle roofing, largely because asphalt is the material most builders trust and what homeowners are accustomed to seeing on houses. Asphalt shingles can vary in colors to match the paint or brick of a home, and the variety of their colors is more than with metal roofing. The three-tab shingles give a flat appearance while the more expensive architectural shingles appear more three dimensional.

Metal roofs are rarely seen in urban and suburban areas. The sleek, metallic appearance seems more suited for an agricultural setting. Metal roofing systems are available in a variety of colors and styles to match the rest of the home. The metal can be in panels, tiles, or shingles, but the appearance of a metal roof still can be jarring in a neighborhood full of asphalt shingle roofs.

Installation

Metal roofing installations are much harder than installing a shingle roof, but due to the weight of shingles, especially the traditional ones, the previous shingle materials may need to be removed first. Also, warranty and insurance requirements may demand the removal of previous asphalt shingles. A roofing square of three-tab shingles, which is 100 square feet, can weigh 200 pounds, and a square of architectural shingles can weigh up to 500 pounds. Because the installation is easier, even with removing a previous roof, installing asphalt shingles can take as little as a day or two of labor, depending on the size of the house.

Metal roofing, on the other hand, is much lighter and can be installed directly over the previous roof. The weight varies by the material used. Aluminum weighs only about 50 pounds per square while steel weighs 100 to 250 pounds. One reason why roofing with metal takes longer is the extra step of laying plywood 4 or oriented strand board (OSB) under the metal. This additional step eliminates the added noise of metal. With proper installation, rain or even hail should sound no different inside a home with a metal roof than it does inside a home with an asphalt shingle roof.

Both of these jobs are best left to professional Albany roofing contractors. Working on a roof can be dangerous, and installing roofing materials is a very precise and demanding job. Areas around vents must be properly sealed, and flashing must be carefully put into place. Also, some warranties may be voided if the materials are not installed by a professional Albany area roofing contractor.

Costs

A metal roofing will cost approximately $265 to $600 per roofing square or $2 to $6 per square foot for steel or aluminum shingles, $120 to $150 for corrugated steel panels, and $700 to $900 for copper or zinc. After adding installation, a steel or aluminum roof will cost about $500 to $1,000 per square. For a home with a 1,500-square-foot roof, this comes to about $7,500 to $15,000. For a home with a 2,500-square-foot roof, this comes to $12,500 to $25,000. This is, on average, about three times the cost of asphalt shingles and is another reason many homeowners opt for an asphalt shingle roof instead.

Energy Efficiency

Asphalt shingle roofing is much less expensive at about $60 to $90 per roofing square for three-tab asphalt shingles or $100 to $120 per square for architectural shingles. Felt is installed under the shingles at $40 per roll of synthetic underlayment, at $85 per 400 square feet. Installation costs about $80 to $200 per square, and removal of a previous roof shingles adds about $80 to $150 per square. If architectural shingles are used, the labor rises to $200 to $400 per square. A highly pitched or steep roof will add even more to the installation cost. For a property with a 1,500-square-foot roof, the cost of a three-tab shingle roof comes to about $2,100 to $4,800 without the removal of the previous shingles, an additional $1,200 to $2,250. For properties with a 2,500-square-foot roof, the cost comes to between $3,500 and $8,000 without the removal of the previous shingles, an additional $2,000 to $3,750. These prices make asphalt shingle roofing an almost certain choice for first-time home buyers and contract builders. Newer fiberglass varieties can be even less expensive.


A metal roof will lower your energy bills by about 40 percent in the summer. The reflective surface lessens the transfer of heat into the home. On the other hand, asphalt shingles absorb the sun’s heat, transferring it through the roof to the home, making the home’s cooling system work harder. This is why asphalt shingles are recommended more strongly for temperate climates.

In winter, asphalt shingles perform better, using the heat absorbed from the winter sunlight to make the home much warmer. However, metal roofs also perform well in winter. The year-round energy usage will still be lower with metal than with asphalt.

Even so, some asphalt shingle styles are designated as cool roofs and join some metal roofs in carrying an Energy Star rating for higher energy efficiency. These roofing materials are certified to reflect more of the sun’s energy, lowering the roof’s temperature by up to 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Even though other factors can affect the amount of savings offered, they can decrease demand on the home’s cooling systems at peak times by 10 to 15 percent.

To offset the cost of installing a new roof, you can look for Energy Star certified asphalt shingles or metal roofs. When using these energy-efficient materials, 10 percent of the materials cost, up to $500, can be received as an energy credit.

Durability

The higher cost of metal roofing is also offset by its long-life expectancy. A metal roof can last for 60 years or more with little maintenance. Most roofing manufacturers offer a 50-year warranty on metal roofs. However, an asphalt roof will need to be replaced two or three times during that same 60-year period. Warranties for asphalt shingle roofs vary from 20 to 25 years.

Asphalt shingles are susceptible to hail and high wind damage, although fiberglass shingles are more durable than organic ones. Also, if asphalt shingles do not get adequate sunlight, they can accumulate mold, algae, or mildew. Metal roofs, on the other hand, are superior performers in high winds and bad weather, and they are impervious to molds, mildews, and bugs.

Metal roofs perform so well under harsh conditions that homeowners in over 25 states are eligible for insurance discounts when they install impact- and fire-resistant metal roofs.

If the metal roof is a low-quality steel without an adequate rust-resistant coating, then use near salt water is not advised. More expensive, rust-resistant metal alloys and coatings should be used instead.

Fire Resistance

Some manufacturers’ asphalt shingle lines are rated Class A for fire safety, especially the fiberglass varieties. Also, all metal roofs are fire resistant, steel and copper more so than aluminum. This makes metal roofing a good choice in areas prone to wildfires.

Recyclability

Metal roofing systems win the day regarding recycling issues. Some are made with recycled materials, and all are completely recyclable. About 1 million tons of asphalt shingles are disposed of each year, and they can be recycled into a variety of products. The cost to recycle them is generally less than to place them in landfills. However, available recyclers for asphalt shingles are few, but the development of more recycling availability is underway.

Maintenance

Repairs are more difficult with metal roofing since most of the metal used is made in sheets and must be replaced that way. When damage occurs to a roof, asphalt is easier and less expensive to repair or replace. Metal roofs require little maintenance and need to be repaired far less frequently.

Resale Value

Because a metal roof is strong, durable, and energy efficient, it should increase a home’s resale value. By some estimations, the resale value will increase by 1 to 6 percent over a house with asphalt shingles. The buyer must appreciate the look of a metal roof, however. Any new roof will help sell a home since buyers want to feel secure about the condition of the roof over their heads.

Infinite Roofing and Construction are the Albany roofing contractors of choice, whether you are going for a metal roofing installation or an asphalt shingle roofing installation. We are experienced in both residential and commercial roofing installations of any type and can best advise you on the best materials for your property. Call us today for a free consultation on 518-444-ROOF (7663).

Is your roof leaking? Could the ridge vent be the problem?

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Do you have a roof leak and can’t figure out what the problem may be? Don’t assume that a faulty roof or the shingles may be the problem and that you may need a full roof replacement. Faulty ridge vents can contribute to the problem and can lead to moisture issues. Fixing a leak quickly is important because if not fixed it can cause more problems down the line.

What are ridge vents?

You may wonder what exactly is a ridge vent and where does it fall in the equation of a roof leaking?

Ridge vents are critical to the attics health, they are a part of the attics ventilation system and helps circulate the air. They also usher moisture (in winter and summer) and hot air (during the summer) that would otherwise lead to damage. It is a metal capping that allows hot air to escape from the attic, the ventilation allows the attic to stay dry, free from any moisture and also prevents it from damaging your insulation. When getting a roof installation a ridge vent will be the last thing that will be placed on the structure and for that reason, a ridge vent leak can occur. Many time the fasteners that are used for the ridge vent aren’t secured properly

Inspect the Attic

Go up to the attic during daylight. Keep the lights off and look up at the roof to see if there is any light coming through. Diffused light is normal, but a beam of light may be the cause of a leak. Then, use a flashlight to examine the ridge vent. Look for moisture or water stains. Water stains may be from an old leak.

Another good time to inspect the attic is when it is raining. Be sure to notice where the water is coming from, because it may be channeled from another area on the roof before dripping down into the attic.

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Air Circulation Problems

If you don’t see any leaks, you may have a one-time problem with rain or snow being blown in by heavy winds. Another problem can be a lack of ventilation in the attic. If the air is not circulated, you may get a problem with condensation, which mimics a roof leak.

Most Albany roofing contractor recommends that a roof should be inspected at least ones a year to prevent a ridge vent problem from creating bigger trouble and more damage than it would if it was to be. A strong gust of wind can pop up the ridge vent cap and if not taken care of immediately as rain, snow and even ice dams can cause your roof to leak. The process if inspecting the roof can be done by the homeowner or a professional

Repairing leaking ridge vents

Avoiding problems with ridge vents leak is easy when you schedule an annual roof inspection. During the evaluation, the Albany roofing contractor will not only assess the condition of the ridge vents, but he will also identify issues with shingle wear, damaged flashing and more.

If you feel that crawling around on your roof is a risky and perhaps dangerous job; you are exactly right. There are professionals that will inspect your roof and look for a ridge vent leak for only a minimal cost. These professionals will inspect various other common problems that may occur, as well.

Let the professionals do their job and call Infinite Roofing for an inspection to make sure that there is no ridge vent problem with your roof!

DIY method to remove Moss and Lichen With Vinegar

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Damp conditions are perfect for mosses and lichens to grow, lichen consists of a fungus and photosynthesizing plant, while moss itself is a plant. When materials like leaves collect on your roof, a perfect bed is formed for moss and lichens to grow. People try finding ways to remove moss and lichens themselves without having to hire roofing contractors and there are ways to take care of that problem yourself and also do it in an environmentally friendly way. You can remove moss and lichens from your roof by using vinegar as an environmentally friendly weed killer. Roof cleaning is an important aspect of having your house look new and not aged. Algae and moss on roofs adds years to the look of your house, removal of algae will bring newly replaced roof look and make your house stand out.

Step 1

Ensure to clean up any organic matter on the roof such as leaves, twigs or other debris. Organic material is a perfect growing ground for moss and lichen, not only that it can also rot and possibly damage your roof.

Step 2

Use a push broom, or other sorts of stiff brush, to scrape away any stubborn mold or lichen patches still remaining. Begin with the top of the roof and work your way toward the eaves. For your safety stay well away from the edge of the roof.

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Step 3

Use a tall ladder, and set it up next to the house. Get rid of any moss around the roof edges using the brush. Repeat this step and work your way around the house to make sure all sides are covered. If ever any step seems like they may be too dangerous for you to perform yourself, roofing companies always offer cleaning services and professional roofing contractors can always inspect your roof while cleaning.

Step 4

Take a bucket and pour distilled white vinegar into it. The vinegar should be labeled with its acetic acid strength, which shouldn’t be more than 5 percent. To help the vinegar cling to moss and lichens add a 1 oz. of dish soap, and finally pour the mixture into the spray bottle.

Step 5

Use the spray bottle and apply the vinegar to the moss and lichens on the roof, then get off the roof and apply the vinegar to the moss and lichens around the edge.

Step 6

This is where the waiting game begins, it generally takes a couple of days for the vinegar to kill off the moss and lichens.

Step 7

Use the brush that was used earlier to remove the dead lichens and moss.

Step 8

The final step is to clean the roof is to use a garden hose or sprayer to rinse off everything.

An option to consider when trying to avoid problems related to moss and algae on the roof would be to consider the GAF StainGuard technology. When your roof has run its life and it’s time to replace the roof, talk to your local Albany roofing contractors about the possibility of having the GAF Timberline shingles that have the stain guard technology, or the GAF Ultra shingles that have the StainGuard plus technology installed.

Blue-green algae, also known as Gloeocapsa magma, has spread throughout more than 80% of the U.S., leaving dark black stains wherever it grows, and making millions of perfectly good roofs, and the homes they protect look old before their time.

Many traditional algae-resistant shingles use a granule technology developed more than a quarter-century ago. There is a layer of algae-fighting copper in the granules that is released onto the roof when it’s wet. Granules get older as the roof ages, and it releases less and less copper, affecting and reducing the shingle’s algae resistance.

StainGuard Plus™ Time-Release technology from GAF releases algae-fighting copper more efficiently, over time, for long-lasting algae-fighting power.

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Unlike the older layered technology, StainGuard Plus™ technology uses specially engineered capsules, that are infused throughout with thousands of copper microsites so copper remains within reach, ready to be activated in the battle against blue-green algae stains.

StainGuard Plus™ uses a time-release technology, its algae resistance so powerful, it comes with a 25-year ltd. warranty against blue-green algae discoloration.

Roofing companies offer GAF products with the warranties in Albany, we at Infinite Roofing and Construction pride ourselves for our GAF certification and the knowledge to sell you the right product, with the correct installation so you as a consumer can get all the benefits provided by the GAF StainGuard technology for the protection it guarantees for your roof.

Moss and lichen are an easy problem to solve, but why not prevent the problem altogether by getting the right material for your roof that would prevent the growth of moss and protect your roof throughout the years.

What are “Storm Chasers”?

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Your roof can suffer a great deal or damage when a big storm hits and your roof takes storm damage. Typically, this storm damage is covered by your homeowner’s insurance, which means you are more likely to take action to repair or replace your roof. “Storm Chasers” are fraudulent roofing contractors that know about the increased likelihood of roof repair in areas affected by large storms, and can rip off homeowners with poorly constructed roofing projects. Knowing how to identify these storm chasers can help you avoid falling for their corrupt tactics.

What is a storm chaser?

Roofing contractors who go to areas recently affected by storm damage, rain, hail or strong wind are called storm chasers. They use special programs to locate large storms and determine the value of affected homes. These roofing contractors have immense knowledge about insurance companies they use their knowledge to estimate the cost of a new roof. Local and reputable roofing companies are most likely overwhelmed and overbooked, and the “Storm Chasers” use that to their advantage and go door to door to notify residents that they have roofing services available. Typically, they will start by offering a free roof inspection.

Why are they unreliable?

Most storm chasers only do the bare minimum to replace a damaged roof. They will find the cheapest materials to quickly assemble a new roof, often leaving out important elements that a professional roofing company would take in consideration, and they fail to restore things back to their original condition. The roofs that are installed by them usually only have a lifespan of fewer than 10 years because they are installed using cheap material, whereas a professional roofing company using high-quality materials and techniques would leave you with a roof lasting 40 years with warranties to back up their install. Professional roofing companies have the certifications and licensing while storm chasers usually do not have the proper licensing or insurance to work on roofs.

In some cases, storm chasers do not replace the roof at all. Instead, they give a free inspection, quote a reasonable price and ask for upfront payment. Once they are paid, they move on to the next town without any intention of working on the roof.

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What tactics do storm chasers use?

If you want to avoid being scammed by storm chasers do your research before handing over any money. Make sure that the contractors you hire to replace your roof or fix the storm damage have a reliable background and pay close attention to the approach they use. There are a few telltale signs that a contractor is a storm chaser.

1-They come directly to your home

The most obvious tell-tale sign for storm chaser is that they come directly to your door, Roofing companies don’t go out looking for work, especially after a big storm, they know that work would be coming to them as people will try to find reliable roofers in Albany to deal with their insurance agency and get the best repair or replacement possible. Storm chasers, on the other hand, move around to wherever the storms go, they cannot rely on the chances that people in need of roof repair will find them. Sometimes storm chasers go so far as to pretend they were sent by a company that previously worked on your roof. If this happens, ask for proof.

2-They want payment upfront.

No roofing company will ask for payment upfront before starting the job, When you pay storm chasers upfront, even if it is just a deposit, it is likely that it will be the last time you ever see them.

3-They offer to pay for the deductible.

How nice would it be to have your insurance deductible waived? Storm chasers think so, too. If a roofing contractor offers to pay for your deductible, they are probably a storm chaser. It is considered insurance fraud to allow a contractor to pay the deductible. If you let a roofing company pay your deductible, you will be the one responsible for committing the illegal act. Make sure you are familiar with your insurance policy and the laws regarding fraud to prevent yourself from falling into this trap.

4-They create damage that was not there before.

Because they are usually familiar with the insurance claim process, storm chasers sometimes create their own damage if the real damage is not sufficient. They may use golf balls, hammers or other hard, heavy objects to pound dents into your roof. Watch and listen carefully as contractors inspect your roof and have a camera or cell phone ready to catch them in the act if you are suspicious. Adding fake damage for the purpose of collecting insurance money can have serious consequences.

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Educate yourself and your neighbors about the common signs of storm chasers to avoid being the victim of a roofing scheme. Check the Better Business Bureau if you are unsure of the legitimacy of a roofing contractor. This will tell you if the business is local and if complaints have been filed against it.

Infinite Roofing and Construction is proud to boast an A+ rating on the BBB. We are a local, trusted roofing company in Albany with over 20 years of experience. Getting a new roof is an expensive endeavor, so make sure you are getting it done right the first time by a company you can trust.



Do you really need 3 estimates for a roofing job?

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You’ll need to get as much information and knowledge about the process when looking to replace your roof. You need to weigh your options for roofing materials, their cost, and learn as much as you can about the local roofing companies that will be doing the work. In particular, your goal should be to find the best work for the best value.

Conventional wisdom, and also your insurance companies state and push that you should get three estimates from your local roofing companies and choose the median. Why? Supposedly, a drastically lower estimate may indicate cost-cutting measures that could result in shoddy workmanship, while the highest estimate could wind up costing you a pretty penny for average durability.

Meanwhile, if you’re replacing your roof due to an insurance claim, your insurance company may be stressing that you obtain at least three estimates. However, the three-estimate rule is not a hard-and-fast requirement for insurance claims, nor is it a necessity for your own decision-making process

So how many estimates do you really need?

The thought process behind requesting multiple estimates is solid. replacing a roof is a major undertaking that costs you a good deal of money and stands to make a lasting effect on your home’s weatherproofing, durability, and resale value for years to come. Of course, you want as much information as possible so you can feel comfortable proceeding. You also want to make sure the local roofing contractor you choose provides high-quality materials and high-quality installation and the best way to make that determination is to compare them to other local roofing companies that offer the same service.

However, do you really need three estimates? Not really. In this case, the “right” number of estimates depends completely on you. Get as many, or as few estimates as you need in order to feel comfortable with the roofing company you choose and their pricing.

Insurance companies are in no way required to get three estimates. All roofing contractors receive payment following a third-party system designed to set industry standard prices. Your insurance company will pay your area’s best roofers in Albany the exact same amount as it pays the worst roofers in Albany. Gather as many estimates as you feel comfortable with and choose the best company, just as you would if you were footing the bill on your own.

How do you go about choosing the best company? Ask these questions aside from the affordability factor to determine the best roofer in albany for your job.

  • Have they performed work in the area? Ask for references and addresses. There’s no better way to get a feel for a company’s customer service and workmanship than by speaking with former customers.
  • How experienced is the crew? It’s a good sign if your roofing company has been in business for decades and has great reviews. However, make sure to ask about the experience level of the particular crew that will be performing your work; a long-lasting company can easily hire a crop of newbies that may not have any more experience than you do.
  • How can I reach out during the process? Asking this question, in particular, gauges the company’s customer service. Their willingness to answer questions, guide you through the process, and remain available speaks to how smoothly the process will go on install day.
  • Ask about any certifications that the roofing company may have, having certifications backs up the work that is done by the company and it would guarantee that they have the best training necessary to be working on your roof.

There is no number of “right” estimates that you would need to get, go with what you think is suitable for you. Infinite Roofing can provide you with a free estimate for your insurance company with a detailed inspection of your roof. Our certifications, reviews and our highly trained crew will guarantee a happy and easy going roof installation.

A homeowners guide to protecting the exterior of their house during a roof installation!

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Sometimes during a conversation with the customer, it can be pretty obvious that they care about their garden and landscape. It’s these jobs you’ll know to take extra precautions with, but concerns about landscape don’t always come up in the conversation. Its always wise to maintain a clean job site, as it won’t cause problems post-install, and a clean work site is a safer site for your crew, the homeowners, and any neighbors or visitors.

When homeowners sign a contract with local roofing contractors, usually their main concern is that their roof installation is done properly. Unfortunately, the most common complaints about local roofing contractors is the occasional mess that is left behind after a job, and in some cases, the landscaping around the house can be damaged.



We at Infinite Roofing and Construction follow a “Never There” policy, as professional roofers in Albany we know that in the residential roofing business leaving the work property clean and undamaged is a priority for almost every homeowner, so we don’t take any chances. We always protect the landscaping, and we perform a magnetic sweep of the area after every workday to make sure all nails are picked up.  

We also hang tarp on the eaves of the house to prevent felt paper from blowing back and damaging the siding. The bottoms of the tarp are tied down to a tree or trucks so they are tight and any debris slides away from the house. We will move the grills away to prevent any damage. Our customers appreciate this attention to detail around their home.

We take our  “Never There” policy seriously, and even though with our roofing company you wouldn’t need to worry about your landscaping, extra care is never harmful, and It’s essential for you to protect the exterior of your home from any possible damage due to a roofing job.


Here are some important guidance for protecting your home exterior during roof installation and repair.

Secure any items hanging on the exterior portion of your home. Protect your at-risk items like patio furniture, potted plants, grills, and gardening tools with tarps and/or plywood, prior to starting roofing work.

You should relocate vehicles, falling within your home’s boundary to protect them from damage, and this includes vehicles parked in the driveway. Also, ensure to cover and protect valuables stored in your attic.

Prune back trees that are present close to the roof line, prior to beginning the roof installation process. This allows proper roof access to the local roofing contractors and prevents damage to the fresh roof.



Mow down your grass to the minimum height possible to prevent the nails from getting concealed, after falling into the long grass and ensure to shut your automatic sprinkler systems down, a day or two prior to beginning your installation to minimize any possible damage.

Secure your flowerbeds or landscaping surrounding your home by screening them with tarps or plastic by protecting them from dust and trash. You should also move out any hanging plants during your roof installation.

Damage to your pools, spas, and any nearby expensive equipment from debris and nails can be prevented. Cover the pools using a tarp and the spas with polypropylene to ensure your property’s protection before starting roof job.

Infinite Roofing and construction will make sure that any and all damage is prevented, and that the customer doesn’t worry about the aftermath of a roofing job, but little extra measures will only help and put your mind at an ease.



Thinking about what to do with that tax return? Here are 3 projects homeowners are taking on with their tax return!

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Tax season just passed and with that many of you got the benefit of getting a tax return. According to the IRS, Americans receive up to $3,000 on average in their tax return check. While some people may spend that on luxuries, a vacation, or a clothing spree, many Americans are opting to put their money where their heart is: their homes.

When a person invests any money in their home, whether it be adding decorative touches like backsplash tiling in the kitchen, new lighting fixtures, or large projects like completely reflooring their home or installing a pool, every upgrade means an increase in the overall value of the house.

Knowing what improvements to make depends largely on how long you intend to stay in the home. Regardless of your intentions, the prevailing opinion by experts is to focus on the exterior of the home in the form of large-scale projects over more superficial additions like decoration-centered remodeling. If you have nothing that needs immediate fixing on your home, the most popular home improvement options that most people are choosing this tax return season are the following:

#1. WINDOWS

If eyes are the windows to the soul, as many believe, then the windows are the eyes of the house. Your windows can be functional and stylish at the same time, providing anything you might wish for, but there are many things to take into consideration when selecting a window concept for your home but most importantly: are you replacing the whole window plus frame entirely or just the glass and working parts?

While replacing the frame of the window entirely is more expensive than just the glass and “innards” of a window, the frame can incur significant damage over time and often gets overlooked. Window sills, particularly, suffer damage the most but are rarely attended to during a replacement process. If you are considering gutting the whole window and frame and replacing the entire unit, make sure to use a professional roofing contractor.


#2. SIDING

Whether you just want your home to have a face-lift or you are repairing damage (warping, mold, dry rot, peeling paint, etc.), purchasing new siding for your home is a major decision and there are many factors to consider. Like windows, siding is potentially both an aesthetically pleasing choice as well as a functional one.

Many feel a fresh coat of paint is just as good, but this is not true. Siding is far more durable and will last for a much longer time than paint, which can chip and wear down over time from inclement weather. As an investment, it’s one of the best. You can recover approximately 93% of what you spent on the project when selling the house.

While beauty is in the eye of the beholder, that beholder might be your Homeowners’ Association (HOA) and let your professional roofing contractor know about the restrictions. Make sure to check bylaws and statutes for your neighborhood when picking siding material and color in case there are any rules against certain hues. There are some neighborhoods that have a specific palette from which to choose. It’s harder to ask for forgiveness rather than permission when making a major change to your home like siding.

Many professional roofing companies like Infinite Roofing and Construction offer siding installs too, We are James Hardie and, CertainTeed certified to install siding on your house.

#3. ROOFING

Of all the home repairs and upgrades listed, the roof is the most important, which is why it is last on the list. While most people will not have friends and neighbors over when they replace their roofing by a professional roofing contractor to show it off, it is a vital part of the home. If you doubt its significance, try to imagine your house with a leak in the roof and you understand immediately why it’s so important.

Replacing a roof adds significant value to the home and a roof’s age is often the deciding factor for people when buying a house; knowing you have to replace a roof within a few years because of its advanced age would make anyone wary about purchasing a home. Get a free estimate from your local roofing contractors to get an idea of how much you may be expecting to spend when getting a roof replacement.

The region you live in is the most important aspect when selecting roof material because certain areas require certain roof characteristics. The most common types of roofing are:

Asphalt Shingle

This is the most cost-effective option and generally can last a long time. A drawback many homeowners find is that it looks flat and unattractive and, if a dark color, can heat up quickly in the sun, making the house too hot.

Wood Shingle

where asphalt is relatively inexpensive and low on the beauty factor, wood shingles are the total opposite because they tend to be higher priced but definitely more pleasing to the eye. Someone who lives in an area with a danger of fire damage should never choose a wooden roof, due to its combustibility.

Slate

This is an extremely high-end and visually appealing option with a price tag to match. It is also very heavy and slippery to walk on, therefore hard to repair when damaged.

Composition slate

These are synthetic material tiles and a green option with 95% of its composition being recyclable materials. This option is gathering popularity because of its sustainable properties, durability, and it’s lightweight.

Metal

Also very durable, metal roofing can come in a variety of materials from aluminum to steel to copper to zinc and mixed-metal alloys. While it is more expensive and requires a specialist to install or repair it, it is a highly durable (making them cost-effective) and attractive option on any home.

If you choose to use your hard-earned tax refund on a roof this year, make sure to call Infinite Roofing, the leading roofing contractors in the Albany region for new roof installation or a repair. Infinite Roofing and Construction has single-handedly been making customers smile with quick and professional service backed by a 10-year in house warranty. Call or SCHEDULE A FREE ESTIMATE ONLINE to talk to our expert about starting a plan for a new roof today


Roof Replacement: Professional vs DIY

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Professional roof shingle installation | Infinite Roofing & Construction

When it’s time to replace your roof, you may be looking to do it yourself and save money, but roofing can be a dangerous task. The height, lack of safety knowledge, lack of specialist equipment and the fact that a roof can become unstable during replacement are just a few major reasons why replacing the roof yourself can be dangerous. However, roofs get damaged over time, you may see a leak in your roof, it could be damaged in a storm or it is just plain getting old. Then your roof will need to be replaced or repaired. The question is how do you know if you should be hiring a professional roofing company or doing it yourself?

Hiring a Professional

If you want to know that your roof will be replaced or repaired correctly, then hiring a professional would give you that peace of mind. Professional roofing companies have access to all the right materials and tools for the job. Plus, they have years of experience to do the job correctly. Professionals are also able to inspect the property and advise you if there is anything else wrong with the roof that would need to be repaired. Let’s say a few shingles knocked loose in a storm, and you hired a roofing company to replace the shingles that knocked loose. Any other damage done to your roof by the storm may have not been visible to your untrained eyes, but a professional roofing contractor would be able to tell after an inspection. This does not mean that your roofing contractor will spring surprise costs on you. A good roofing contractor will offer a thorough quote or estimate before beginning any work, so you know exactly how much the services cost and why these repairs are being done.

A great bonus to having a professional roofing company is that their replacements are usually covered by warranties. These warranties can offer you peace of mind in case anything goes wrong within the time span outlined in the warranty agreement, and will potentially save you money if something does go wrong. Most warranties are only valid if installed by a professional.

Putting yourself in danger is one of the last things that a homeowner wants, getting on the roof yourself can be very dangerous, by hiring a professional company to replace or fix your roof will save yourself the trouble of putting yourself in danger.

Doing it Yourself

Replacing or fixing your roof yourself comes with some caveats. Firstly, as mentioned previously, it can be a very dangerous task for someone who is untrained to replace a roof. Roofers are up and walking around on roofs every day and are trained to do so safely. They know how to navigate around any dangerous situations and they know how to keep themselves out of danger. Besides being up high on your roof, there are other construction-related safety issues to be concerned about. Another downside to replacing your roof yourself is that you probably do not have the experience or know how to get the job done correctly. Your roof is such an important part of the infrastructure of your house and you want to make sure that a repair or replacement is stable and durable. If a small leak is not fixed the right way, it could escalate into a much bigger problem.

Small repairs might be the only situation that might work out in your favor when doing it yourself. For example, it may be easier and more cost-effective than hiring a professional if you only have a shingle or two to replace, or if you have a small leak that just requires sealant.

Summary

When debating whether to hire a professional to fix/replace your roof or whether to just do it yourself, there are many factors to take into consideration. Overall, you want to make sure that your repair or replacement is done right so that your roof can last, and not cause any problems in the future. The professionals at Infinite Roofing have the experience and expertise you need to get your roof replacement done right.

10 Signs It’s Time To Replace Your Roof

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  • Damage to your roof can only get worse over time

It is important to pick up on the warning signs of a failing roof, but what are the characteristics that you should be looking for? Listed below are the signs that you should be looking for when inspecting a roof. If any of them pop up it is very likely that your roof needs to be looked at by an Albany roofing company that can determine if you need a roof replacement.

1. Curled or Buckled Shingles

Curled or Buckled shingles are a huge sign that your roof has some age on it and it may be time for a roof replacement. The moisture in the attic space can force nails to push up and out of the roof’s decking, causing the shingles to buckle. This can cause a lot of problems. It can leave your house exposed to the elements outside and it increases the chances of shingles blowing off during a storm. Shingles are hard to replace so calling an Albany roofing company to give you a free estimate would give you an idea of how much it may end up costing.

2. Tar Streaking or Algae Growth

Bacteria is another leading cause of roofs failing. Tar streaking and algae growth are caused by bacteria eating away at the shingles weatherproofing properties. Some cheap manufacturing companies use limestone fillers to keep the cost of the shingle production low. Limestone isn’t the greatest when it comes to protection against algae. The algae will eat through the limestone and cause your roof to have black streaking which will compromise the weatherproofing properties causing you to have an entire roof replacement done.

3. Missing Granules

Missing granules are a sure sign that your roof is dramatically losing its weatherproofing properties. To check to see if you are missing granules, check your gutters for granule build up, if that’s something you are unsure about how to do, always give your Albany commercial roofing or residential roofing company a call to come and look at. You can also check your downspout splash pan for granules or sometimes you can shake it and if you hear a rattling this is another sign that your shingle’s granules are falling off.

4. Moisture and Mold

Ventilation in the attic is very important, warm air in your house rises and if not vented out properly, the warm air can get trapped in the attic. When that happens, condensation develops on the inside of your roof. This can cause rusty nails and eventually mold buildup if it has not been looked at by a professional Albany roofing company. Unfortunately, if left long enough the plywood would rot out and you’ll be stuck having to get a full roof replacement. Even if you have a new roof, don’t think this problem isn’t something that you need to worry about. This can happen with new or old roofs as some people may over insulate their homes to prevent from getting high energy bills but that also ends up blocking the vents. Just like a car, a home needs an appropriate intake (soffits) and exhaust (ridge vent). Mold is an extreme health hazard, so if that is something that you came across, do not try tackling it yourself. Seek out an Albany roofing company to take care of this situation with their expertise and the right equipment. You should act now to prevent the extra costs of having to replace all the affected wood as well. Mold, if not acted upon in a timely manner, could end up costing you an entire roof replacement.

5. Missing Shingles

Missing shingles are the biggest and the easiest one to figure out when it comes to knowing if you need a roof replacement. If you have missing shingles that allows anything a pathway into your house. Contacting an Albany roofing company to inspect the situation as soon as possible would be the best advice.

6. Daylight Coming Through Roof Boards

Is there light coming in through your roof? The best way to check that would be to go up to the attic and turn all the lights off to see if there are any holes that are letting the light in. If that is the case you may want to call a commercial roofing company to get a roof replacement.

If you see light streaking from the roof’s decking, you may have a big problem as this means the nails have fallen through or the corrosive materials used have lost their weatherproofing properties (i.e. flashing, collars, and step flashing).

7. Attic Temperature Different From Outdoor Temperature

Your attic temperature is supposed to be very similar to the outdoor temperature as your attic should have enough ventilation that lets air circulate in and out of the attic. If the ventilation system in the attic fails to do this job and the attic is warmer than the outside temperature, then there is a possibility of ice dams forming. Your home is prone to ice dams. You may also see signs of blistering/peeling of exterior paint due to poor attic ventilation.

8. Ice Dams

If you see huge icicles forming at the edge of your roof, it’s an indication that you need a roof replacement. Things that you would need to ensure to prevent this situation would be:
a) Proper Ventilation
b) Adequate Insulation
c) Ice & Water Shield

9. Leaky Chimneys

Your roof and chimney should be properly flashed so that your home is sealed away from the elements. Making sure that your chimney has been flashed correctly is crucial so if you see any water leaked around your chimney that would indicate that the chimney hasn’t been flashed correctly and is no longer performing. You want to make sure your commercial roofing company has used a leak barrier to provide protection against leaks in vulnerable areas, and on all areas of your roof including eaves, rake and side walls.

10. Excessively High Energy Bills

High heating and cooling bills can be from energy escaping due to poor ventilation and insulation in your home, especially in your attic and roof. If you notice you have high energy bills in addition to any of the warning signs listed above, it could be because your roof is under-performing and getting in a commercial roofing contractor to come and inspect the roof would help solve that problem.

Summary

Thinking that you just had a new roof done a couple of years ago and that nothing could happen to it is a misconception. People usually think that a roof lasts about 10 to 15 years but if there is misapplication or sub-par materials were used, the age means absolutely nothing. Use the tips above to always keep an eye on your roof and make sure it is functioning properly and lasts the full lifespan that it is meant to.

If you think your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan, contact us today for a FREE estimate at 518-444-ROOF, and as your local Albany roofing company, we will be more than willing to come out to your house and take a look at the problem. We will provide the best service to fix any issues and get your roof looking and functioning as good as new!