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Types of Standing Seam Metal Roofing Systems

September 13, 2021 by Infinite Roofing Leave a Comment

Standing seam meatal roofs are commonly used for commercial, industrial and becoming more popular residential roofs. This type of roofing system is a very versatile option offering advantages like durability, long lifespan, cost efficiency, and a variety of design options. Most commonly a metal roof has previously been installed on commercial buildings but because of the most recent design options, it is increasing its popularity with homeowners.

A standing seam metal roof is typically installed in a vertical line pattern running from the eave to the ridge. They feature a raised interlocking system which connects adjoining panels. This ensure that the fasteners are hidden for a sleeker look, because the fasteners are not visible most people prefer a standing seam system. Another reason a standing seam roof is desirable beyond its approved appearance, the panels require much less maintenance and a longer lifespan. Metal roofing system with exposed fasteners on their panels allow water to penetrate causing damage over time. These roofs require yearly maintenance which ends up costing more than a stand seam roof.

Type of Standing Seam Metal Roofs

How each panel is physically attached is call the attachment method, the panel attach to the roofing deck, purlins and rafters. There are two different styles of attachment: clipped and fastening flange.

Clipped: The clipped system attaches to the substructure with a heavy gauge steel clip that is designed to integrate with a male and female panel. A clipped system is typically installed over a solid deck or an open frame like on a pre-engineered metal building. These clips offer a more significant space for expansion and contraction. Because of this commercial and industrial applications with long panel runs are a better suited match. Weather tightness warranties are common with clipped panel systems based on panel design and installation.

Fastening Flange: These panels are attached directly to the roof by the fastener through the slotted flange. The following panel then snaps into the top and covers both panels with the fastening flange and a screw. This type of panel is the most affordable standing seam system but there are some limitations. This system is not suited for projects that require a weathertightness warranty and require a roof deck to be present. The slotted flange has limits on expansion and contraction unlike the clipped attachment method. Fastening flange panels are best suited for residential projects and smaller commercial buildings.

Clipped: Different than fastening flange, clipped panels attach to the substructure using a heavy steel clip with male and female legs. The clipped standing seam system are installed over a solid deck or an open frame. Some buildings that have open frames include pre-engineered metal commercial buildings and industrial buildings. The clipped system allows for contraction and expansion unlike the fastening flange system. As a result the clipped panels are best suited for long panel roofs commonly found on commercial, industrial and educational buildings. This panel design has installation requirements where weathertightness warranties are applied.

Engagement Methods

Mechanically Seamed: In this method a seaming machine is required to mechanically press the panels together for the metal roof installation. This process involves two folds pressing the panel legs together and this bond form as very strong connection. This method is most commonly used on slow slope roofs that have a high wind uplift and where weather-tightness is required. There are two types of seaming machines, single pass and bi- directional. A single pass machine can complete roughly 10 feet per minute and as you can imagine a bi-direction pass can complete about 50 feet per minute. A bi-directional seaming machine can go along the metal panels in both directions, while a single pass will only run from eave to ridge.

Snapped: In this engagement method snapped panels make use of their male/female legs and are simply snapped in place. When pressure is applied their vertical legs being positioned over one another become engaged because of the design and snap together. This can be done my just using a gloved hand or a rubber mallet can be used.

For a standing seam metal roofing system there are two different types of metal panels, symmetrical and asymmetrical. Symmetrical panels are the exact same on both sides and in comparison, the legs on asymmetrical are different. Symmetrical standing seam panels are the most popular because of their initial and long term savings. They are more economically friendly in terms of labor and the reduced chance of damage from leaking.

Asymmetrical panels need to be installed from one end of the building all the way to the other in a sequence. Compared to symmetrical panels that can be started from anywhere on the roof, making it easier to skip sections also. Asymmetrical panels are less convenient and flexible. Symmetrical panels end up have much less scrap or waste and reduced costs when being compared to asymmetrical panels. This is because symmetrical standing seam panels do not have male/female connections. These seams mirror image each other and a seam cap covers them to allow for easy removal if a replacement is needed for individual panels.

In order to replace single panel of symmetrical standing seam roofs an un-seaming machine must be used. This machine will open the cap back to the original shape leaving the panel undamaged. Once removed the panel can easily be replaced and reinstalled. With all the benefits of symmetrical seam panels you might expect them to be more expensive because they offer an easier installation, but you should always factor in building design, codes, and future building modifications.

Which Type of Metal Roof is Best?

Galvalume roofing material combines three metal, steel, aluminum and zin, and is then coated in silicone to protect it from the elements. This is the least expensive type of metal roofing and come in a large variety of colors. Galvalume is corrosion resistant, recyclable and can be installed over any roof.

Aluminum is a popular choice because it performers well in in sea and saltwater environments, and also is the most sustainable material in the world. It does the best in harsh weather conditions and is one of the most predominant metals used worldwide. Aluminum is light weight and does not rust or corrode, it has a medium price point and is readily available.

Copper is another choice for metal roofing but comes at the highest price point. It is a beautiful color and very durable, also one of the lightest weight metals but is about $1,000 per square.

If you still are not sure which metal roofing panels are best for you home or project, give us a call at Infinite Roofing and we can help you out. Standing seam metal roofs offer home and building owners all the advantages of a standard metal roof with a large variety of design and color options. If you are looking for a new roofing system that will save you money and last a very long time then a metal roof might be for you. Another advantage to choosing a standing seam roof for your home or business is that your insurance company looks favorably on them since research has shown they don’t get as damaged and are fire resistant.

WHAT KIND OF INSURANCE IS NEEDED FOR A ROOFING COMPANY?

February 9, 2021 by Infinite Roofing Leave a Comment

Firstly congratulations on making the decision to move forward with your business and start a roofing company. This is of course no substitution for legal advice and you should consult with insurance experts to know exactly what your company needs as far as insurance goes in your current state. Becoming a professional roofer and striving to be the best roofing company you’ll need to hire subcontractors and other employees, which means you will need contractors insurance. This protects you and your company if anything were to happen such as accidents, employee injuries, or lawsuits.

If you did not have Albany roofing insurance then these potential problems would be an out of pocket expense. These expenses would put tremendous financial pressure on your business and could even end it. It is also possible for customers to check on a roofing company’s insurance when looking for the best roofing company and not choose you if you do not possess the proper documentation.

There are three types of Albany roofing insurance that is necessary to conduct business: Worker’s compensation, general liability and in some cases surety bonds for larger more expensive jobs. Roofing contractors insurance requirements vary in every single state so it is important to check your local area on what is required. Insurance policies can be somewhat complex so here we will break down why you need these policies and how they will protect your business.

Workers’ Compensation

Also referred to as workers comp, in a type of coverage that protects your employees if an accident were to happen. Albany Roofing can be a dangerous field of work and no matter how careful you are there is always a chance that a work related injury could occur. It is imperative to be sure your workers are wearing their proper safety gear while on a roof, as well as practicing safety on the ground.

If you were to conduct business without workers comp you would be held liable for any medical bills of someone injured and that could be extremely costly. It could also be your responsibility to pay for missed wages and other benefits to who was injured. Protecting yourself as a business owner with workers compensation insurance is the smartest thing you can do to keep your business thriving. If you invest in workers’ compensation it will cover your unforeseen expenses by monthly payments.

The benefit to holding this insurance is that it protects not only your employees but you as a business owner from the high costs of medical care. An example of how workers’ comp is supposed to function is that when you employ a handful of roofers and one of them accidentally misses a shingle and nails straight through his hand, you direct him to take a visit to the hospital to remove the nail and get some stitches. While at the hospital they X-Ray his hand because the nail went through a ligament and some bone, and also he needed to be stitched up. He now misses a week of work while his primary hand heals and may even need some physical therapy to gain motion back.

Depending on the contract you hold with each employee you might be paying him for his time out of work. If this particular roofer felt like he had a case he could even claim that you were negligent and attempt to sue you. He would need to prove that you contributed to the severity of his injuries in order to have a case.

This is where you workers’ compensation steps in and provides immediate coverage. If not then a lawsuit would take months and in most circumstances by receiving the benefits your employee forfeits his right to sue you. Your insurance would cover the roofers medical bills and aftercare with ease, allowing your employee to heal up and get back to work fast.

Are you liable if someone gets hurt on your property?

This is a common question asked by customers when looking for the best roofing company for the job. When a contractor doesn’t have adequate liability or workers’ compensation insurance, oftentimes it’s the customer who ends up paying the price. If the hired contractor becomes injured while installing a new roof the customer could be financially responsible for the damages, including medical bills and even lost wages. Depending on your local laws the injured employee may be able to also sue the homeowner for contributing or claiming to the cause of the injured person. Before signing a contract for a new roof replacement most homeowners will ask for copies of the local roofing companies WC and liability insurance forms to protect themselves.

In most states it is required to purchase a liability and workers compensation policy in order to conduct business, much like how it is required to have car insurance in order to drive a vehicle. Some states do not require these insurances such as Texas and they can choose to pay a private company to handle workers compensation benefits. Usually it is only much larger businesses that have millions of dollars coming in continuously being made with a reliable cash flow who choose to pay out of pocket through a private company.

When you first start out with your new roofing company it will make much more sense for you to pay a public insurance company for the necessary coverage. Injuries are very common in the construction business, big and small and you most likely will not have the revenue to cover medical costs of even the small ones. It is smarter to protect yourself for the future of your roofing company.

General liability insurance is to protect your business in the case that a third party such as a customer were to become injured, if there was any property damage, or if a lawsuit were to take place.

General liability typically covers:

Property damage
Bodily injury
Legal costs
Advertising injury such as slander to a competitor

Some charges that liability policies usually do not cover are:

Employee injury
Work vehicle and tool damages
Errors on jobs
Punitive damages

General liability offers coverage and protection that workers compensation does not. If you hire a contractor to do a small repair job on your home and he falls off he falls ladder into the owner of the home and hurts the homeowner then it might not be covered. The property damage would be but the medical bills probably would not be covered by general liability as we stated above. It is important for roofing subcontractors to understand exactly what is covered by each liability and workers compensation insurances.

Why Does My Roof Look Wavy?

September 30, 2020 by Infinite Roofing 1 Comment

Although a wavy roof is unaesthetically pleasing, a common concern is if it affects the performance. It is agreed that a wavy roof takes away the appeal of a home, no matter the cost of materials that were used. Determining the underlying issues as to why your roof is wavy is the first step. There are a few possibilities for the reasonings behind a waved roof some more problematic than others. As always, contact a local roofing professional to determine a more thorough inspection of your roof to figure out the cause.

Installation

We can not say this enough “Not all work is created equal,” if you are looking for the cheapest roofing company, chances are you will get the cheapest work. Poor installation is a direct result of a wavy roof. It is urged to find the best roofing company in your area, who is trusted by customers who have left mostly positive reviews. Thankfully there are many platforms where a customer can leave a review for a company. Of course there will be a few disgruntled customers that no one can make happy, try and look at the overall rating of the company.

Materials

Depending on the type of roof you have, certain products or roofing materials are more prone to waving than others. For example asphalt shingles have the highest probability to wave and curl. Asphalt shingles are the lowest quality material and if not installed properly will cause your roof to resemble the ocean.

Foundation

Many people would not assume firstly that the issues they are having with their roof is because of their foundation because the roof is on top of their home, but this can be the case. The framing of your home has a huge impact on the way that your roof sits. The decking or “plywood,” is the foundation for your shingles, this can be an issue if it was not laid properly. Any issues with the decking on your home can result in a visible wave on the roof. Damaged decking can also be very dangerous, this could be an indication of water damage through shingles or issues with ventilation. If you think this might be the issue with your roof be sure to consult with a local roofing professional.

Underlayment

The roofs underlayment is a material that is placed between the roofs decking and the shingles. When asphalt shingles are being installed, felt paper is placed between them and the decking to act as a back up waterproof membrane. Felt is required as the first layer of roofing over the wood. If the felt paper is poorly placed beneath the shingles this will also result in a wavy roof. If the felt material was not fully dry pervious to installation or the day is extremely humid, chances are a slight wave can be seen. This type of roof wave is most commonly only seen after a new roof installation. Over time this issue is naturally corrected from the heat and is not a permanent issue.

Re-Roof

If you have a roofing company that suggests laying a new roof over your old one, we suggest you go with another company. This is a lazy way to install a new roof and will result in issues. If a new install is laid over an old roofing system, you will see an unnatural waviness that will never go away. Unfortunately your entire roof will need to be stripped down to the decking, if that is not damaged as well and reinstalled. Although you think you’ll be saving money by opting out of a the tear-off, it will likely cost you much more in the end if it was not done properly. Roofing warranties are another concern to think about, some warranties may not cover your roof if there is underlying damage unseen by the new roof laid over the top.

Shingle placement

The way shingles are laid out if they are not exceptionally precise, will result in a wavy roof. An inaccurate measurement or improperly sized shingle tab can be the culprit also. This is another reason that working with a trusted roofing company is essential. The lowest quote is usually not the best, you get what you pay for. If you want your roof done correctly, paying for experience is the key. Look for a roofing company that has been around for a decent amount of time, with reviews and pictures of their work to back up their claims on their website.

Sagging Roof

Roof lines should be as straight as an arrow, if you visibly see sagging, curling or dips then your roof has a problem. It is possible that it is caused by something basic that you could handle yourself, but it is more likely to require the intervention of a local roofing professional. As a homeowner you should become familiar with your home and roofs anatomy. If your home has an attic, climb up and take a look around, the horizontal boards under your feet are the roof joists or ceiling, the sloped board above your head are the rafters, this is all attached creating a triangle. This shape is meant to hold a large amount of weight, typically the weight of your roof and roofing materials.

A sagging roof can be the result of the ceiling rafters, the rafters are joined together in the center to create a longer span. With heavy snow, pressure is put on the roof and it can cause the rafters to push outward and turn. Together this causes sagging within your roof, even the slightest sag becomes noticeable from the outside. Problems should be evaluated by a local roofing professional so more damage is not done. The extent of the fix can be difficult to determine, unless you see visible broken rafters, beams, or joists.

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

August 13, 2020 by Infinite Roofing Leave a Comment

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.

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.
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?

August 4, 2020 by Infinite Roofing Leave a Comment

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.

Metal Roofing Vs Shingles

July 5, 2019 by Infinite Roofing 2 Comments

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).

DIY method to remove Moss and Lichen With Vinegar

June 17, 2019 by Infinite Roofing 18 Comments

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.

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.

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.

Looking for a roof that would last years and also be Eco-Friendly?

June 12, 2019 by Infinite Roofing Leave a Comment

Shingles have to be replaced by the homeowners at some point in a roofs lifetime. Conventional asphalt shingle roofs last about 20 years if you are lucky because they are constantly exposed to sunlight, heat, cold, rain, wind, and sometimes snow, sleet, and hail.

If you’d like a roof that will outlast a conventional asphalt shingle roof and is made from eco-friendly roofing materials, consider the products outlined here. Many of them are virtually immune to hail. Green roofing products are many and varied, ranging from recycled-plastic shingles to recycled-metal roofs to sustainably harvested or reclaimed wood roofs to having plants grow on your roof. The best option for your home depends on the design of your home, local building codes, and price considerations.

Recycled Shingles

The most popular and perhaps the most environmentally friendly option would be shingles made from recycled waste materials, such as plastic, rubber, or wood fiber. Some products are made from clean post-consumer waste (waste from homes), others from post-industrial waste (factory waste). Recycled-content shingles are amazingly durable, and they look amazing, too. You’d never be able to guess they were made from “waste” materials!

Waste from landfills are reduced by recycled-content roof shingles help our need to extract and process raw materials, which reduced pollution and lowers energy consumption. Some of these products are recyclable, too, and many come with amazing 50-year warranties. A few even carry fire ratings that could lower your insurance rates.

A popular choice throughout the country has been wood shingles and shakes for homeowners and roofing contractors. Unfortunately, conventional wood shingles are made from old-growth western cedar. Although the amount of energy it takes to produce this product is relatively low, the harvest of old-growth trees is not sustainable in the long run. These shingles are also quite combustible and can no longer be used in areas where there is a risk of brush and forest fires.

If you are still considering installing wood shingles try considering shingle made from reclaimed lumber. Reclaimed lumber products are made from old bridges, mills, old water, and wine tank and other sources.

Slate and Clay Tiles

Slate produces an extremely durable tile, one that can last hundreds of years, and is also an all natural material. It is, however, an energy-intensive process to mine the slate tiles, but most companies salvage slate and clay tiles. Roofing contractors are very familiar with slate roofing as that is getting increasingly popular, the install cost may be a little pricey, but with that being said your roof will last twice as long with barely and repairs to be done.

Metal Roofing

Many metal roofing products include at least some recycled material, but one advantage of metal roofing is that it can be recycled at the end of its life. Because metal roofs can last up to 50 years, roof replacement is less frequent, which means less waste in the long run. They offer exceptional durability and fire-resistance, and they’re ideal for those who want to collect rainwater from their roofs to water gardens (or for household uses). You don’t have to worry about chemicals that might leach from a conventional asphalt roof. Standing-seam metal roofs work nicely as the base for thin-film photovoltaic panels, too.

Metal roofs are great in snowy climates because they allow snow to slide off, which prevents ice dams from forming. (Ice dams can damage roofs of improperly insulated homes.) To protect walkways from snow sliding off the roof, you’ll need to install snow bars or a similar device over walkways, garage doors, and entryways. Although other eco-friendly roofing options may not always be available at every local roofing company or roofing contractors may not be trained to handle the installation of those specific roofs, metal roofing on the other hand is extremely popular and the popularity is growing so most if not all roofing contractors know the inside outs of installing a metal roof.

Rubber Roofing

Another recycled roof material is reinforced rubber shingles made from old steel-belted radial tires. The material is coated with ground slate for texture and comes in a variety of colors. A big advantage to this material is a long life and a 50-year warranty, including against hail and other extreme weather. The only downside to rubber roofing is that it is not always allowed in all counties. Make sure with your local roofing company and the building department that rubber roofing is allowed to be installed on your house.

Green Roofing

A green roof is a roofing system that is an addition to the existing roof and add flora to it. Depending on the green roof type that you plan on installing the plants may be modular or have a drainage system to it.

There are many different reasons as to why a homeowner of a business owner would want to get a green roof. The installation of a green roof reduces the need to manage any stormwater that accumulates, as well as the stress put on local sewer systems. The plants would also help prevent the distribution of smog and would catch any pollutants in the air.

Having an eco-friendly roof not only helps the environment but also as a homeowner, your roof life will last longer preventing the replacement costs. Contact your local roofing contractor today to discuss the options of eco- friendly roofing and how that may benefit you.

Are you a new homeowner? Here’s what you need to know about your Roof.

June 7, 2019 by Infinite Roofing Leave a Comment

If you are in the process of buying your first home, Congratulations! First-time homeownership is an exciting development in your life, and a house is an incredibly valuable investment for you and your family’s future. As a new homeowner, however, it’s important to understand your relationship with your home and how to keep it in great shape for years to come. One part of the home that new homeowners frequently find themselves clueless about is the roof and how to maintain it.

Most home inspectors will pass a house saying that the roof still has 5 to 10 years left. However, most inspectors aren’t trained to look at a house roof and are good at inspecting issues such as furnaces or any foundation problems. Look for roofers in Albany that can do a thorough inspection, do your research and look at different roofing companies and their credibility to pick the best one for your new house.

Once you have a roofing contractor in mind, it’s time to schedule an appointment. The best season for roof inspections is in the summer, hands down. The good weather makes it easier to inspect a roof, and perform any maintenance that is necessary. After your first roof inspection, it is good practice to have one conducted annually – generally in the late summer months like August or September, immediately before the harsher seasons of fall and winter in most climates.

Getting the most out of your roof inspection from your roofing contractor requires careful consideration of your inspection report. Take any issues that you, and the roofing contractor find seriously. Do not assume that because your roof is young it will not have major problems. If something comes up and it’s on your report, address it immediately. The last thing you want is to be left out in the cold – quite literally – in the winter, with a damaged roof.

Here are some things that you as a new homeowner may need to look out for while getting a roof inspection done for your house by roofers in Albany.

1- Look for any discoloration in the shingles.

2- See if the ridge cap shingles are a different color, many times the ridge cap shingles will be slightly different colors, meaning that the ridge vent was leaking and has been replaced, this would indicate that the whole roof is in a need of a replacement after the ridge vent has failed.

3- 4-foot horizontal lines going horizontally across the roof, this means that plywood has gotten wet and soaked up water. Other signs that would confirm that fact is popped out nails, and raising of the studs. All of these factors imply that the roof was previously leaking or still is.

5- Another thing to look at is the condition of the chimneys counter flashing, a good tell of how old the shingles are is to look at the bottom few courses right at the eaves and see if you can see areas where shingle color has worn away, if that is the case then all you would be able to see is the black fiberglass matt. If the fiberglass matt is visible that means that all the granules have fallen off and the fiberglass matt is just soaking up water and will leak soon.

Ones the initial steps of getting your roof inspected by roofers in Albany is done and you now own your dream house, follows the responsibility to maintain your roof throughout the years that you will be living at the house.

Weather and wind can take a toll on your roof quickly and can wear down roofing materials quickly. Blown-off shingles, for example, weaken the overall strength of a house’s roof and need to be replaced. It’s always easier to replace a few missing pieces than the entire roof.

Additionally, if you live in a wooded area or near trees, it’s important to regularly brush off debris from your roof. The added weight of leaves particularly in the autumn, when trees shed their leaves they can press down on your roof, and weaken the integrity. Similarly, you will want to clean out your gutters of leaves and dirt so they can adequately drain rainwater, which is also a threat to your roof if left unchecked.

More than anything else, you should also understand your roof’s warranty and insurance policy. Infinite Roofing and Construction provides a 10-year in-house warranty. Should you get a new roof from us, we will cover the install and materials for 10 years. Insurance does not always cover roofing damage, so be sure to carefully check over your policy to know what is and is not covered, this way you will be ready to protect your roof from damages in the future.

What are “Storm Chasers”?

June 3, 2019 by Infinite Roofing Leave a Comment

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.

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.

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.