Friday, October 19, 2018

Caring for Your Homes Roof Throughout the Winter

The leaves are changing, the temps are dropping, and some of us are even turning on our furnaces… Winter’s here!  There are a variety of attitudes that people here in Michigan have when it comes to winter, are you a homeowner that is chilled just thinking about winter or are you tuning up your snowmobile as I type?

The maintenance of your homes roof throughout the long winter season does not have to be stressful.  With some simple tips you can stop worrying about your roof this winter and start to focus on the season of wonder & delight, and snowflakes & Santa.

Simple Winter Roof Maintenance

Get Rid of Snow Build-Up

Your homes roof has been designed with the elements in mind.  It is constructed specifically to handle the harsh winter weather elements including snow, ice, and rain, along with the freeze, thaw cycle that us Michiganders have come to anticipate.  However, even the most well-designed roof can experience potential issues from snow and ice buildup.

The best way to prevent your roof from having issues that come from snow build up is to eliminate the buildup of snow on your roof to begin with.  There are a number of items available on the market today that help homeowners achieve this including roof rakes.  A snow rake is a simplistic tool that helps to eliminate snow from accumulating on your roof while you are safely on the ground.
Snow rakes are used by slowly and carefully pulling the rake down towards the ground.   Proceed carefully to stand out of the way of any falling snow or debris.  Be careful not to push or pull the snow across the roof as this action can cause the shingles to tear away causing damage.  This simple act can save thousands of dollars in damage to your homes roof.  During heavy snow you will want to use the snow rake multiple times a day to prevent build-up.

Eliminate Ice Build-Up

Homeowners should be as concerned with ice as they are snow.  If ice is allowed to accumulate it can be dangerous especially when ice accumulates in the gutters.  Icicles make look pretty however they are a threat to your roof and can cause water to backup under the shingles.  Roofing contractors recommend that homeowners work to prevent icicles from forming with proper roofing ventilation and insulation.  If prevention is not possible they can easily be knocked down with an extended pole or broom.  Use caution when knowing down icicles as not only is it dangerous you can potentially cause damage or known down gutters if not careful.  Gutters are important in the winter because they help prevent ice dams in the winter.

Ice Dams

Ice dams are dangerous in the winter, they don’t only have the potential to damage your roof and gutters but also the interior of your home.  If you see an ice dam forming it is important to fix the issue immediately.  An ice dam is a large clump of ice on the edge of your roof.  If they are left untreated an ice dam can freeze up the gutters and block the snow from falling off your homes roof.
Preventing ice dams is the best way to protect your homes roof.  Stay on top of the snow, ice, and icicle build-ups.  If you do find ice dams forming use chemical deicer to ensure that water can flow freely through the gutters as the ice melts.  Homeowners can also gently chip away at the ice dams and slowly remove them.

Home Pro Roofing of Michigan offers professional roofing services including new roof installation and roof repair services using shingling and metal roofing materials.  The roofing contractors of Home Pro Roofing service Kalamazoo, Brighton, Lansing, and the surrounding areas.  More information can be found online at https://homeproroofingmi.com.

Thursday, October 4, 2018

How Your Homes Roof Impacts Its Value

Not only does the look of your homes shingle roof affect its overall curb appeal it affects the overall value of your home as well.  This is just one of the many reasons that professional roofing contractors tell homeowners to forget cheap materials and haphazard DIY installation.  When it comes to your homes roof never settled for mediocre.  Your roof has a high return on investment even years after installation if installed properly and with quality materials.

The concept of do-it-yourself home repairs is a popular way that most homeowners try to save money.  When it comes to your roof, DIY is not an option.  Roofing contractors are professionals with the skills and tools to ensure that your roof is installed properly and that the warranty on the roofing materials are guaranteed.

No matter what materials are used to shingle your roof, if the process is done incorrectly even the smallest of mistakes could lead to catastrophe for homeowners.  If shingling is not installed properly it can easily become detached from the base of the roof during high winds and extreme weather.  Once a shingle is damaged rain, snow, and ice are allowed to penetrate your roofs based and enter your home.

Every homeowner wants a bargain during renovations and having a roof installed is no different.  Everyone loves a good deal.  Roofing your home is costly and the allure of cheap roofing services may tempt you.  Consumers fall for fly-by-night roof repair all the time especially after severe weather when homeowners are not only looking for inexpensive but also quick.

When it comes to work done on your home it is important to always work with a team of professional, reputable, well established professionals.  You get what you pay for is surely true in all elements of construction.  It is easier than ever to find out information about the companies you are hiring with access to online tools such as Google review, Houzz, or Angie’s list.  If a contractor can’t give you local references and the people within your trusted circle have never heard of them or their services than it may be time to continue looking for a professional to trust your roof to.

Not only is a viable roofing company one that offers new roof installation but also maintenance and repairs.  No matter how reputable and consciences your roofing contractor is, extreme weather can cause shingles or flashing to be replaced.  With regular maintenance and yearly inspections, you can avoid major (expensive) issues down the road.  Affordable fixes can be done by professional roofers while performing regular roof maintenance and inspections.

Homeowners will be rewarded with a beautiful, long-lasting shingle roof with just a little bit of added effort and due diligence when hiring a roofing contractor.

Home Pro Roofing of Michigan offers professional roofing services including new roof installation and roof repair services using shingling and metal roofing materials.  The roofing contractors of Home Pro Roofing service Kalamazoo, Brighton, Lansing, and the surrounding areas.  More information can be found online at https://homeproroofingmi.com.

Friday, September 21, 2018

What Occurs When You Ignore a Leak in Your Roof

Asphalt shingling is the most common material used to roof homes throughout Michigan.  Shingles are not only inexpensive, but they are also low-maintenance and roofing contractors have been installing them for over a century.   When properly cared for a shingle roof can last between 20 to 40 years, depending on the specific product that is installed.  No roof will last forever no matter what material it is made from, however there are things you can do to help especially if the roof is compromised and a leak occurs.

Ignoring leaks in your homes roof can lead to bigger problems for homeowners.  A leak in your shingles will not ever repair itself, no matter how much you beg it to.  Water entering your home from your roof will wreak havoc when it is left to soak into the insulation and ceiling.  The longer the repair is ignored the costlier the damage will be to repair.

Dealing With Mold

One issue that occurs with leaks is that the chance of mold growing increases substantially.  A small leak may just leave a few water stains at first but slowly start to turn into mold growth thus a bigger, more expensive problem to deal with.  Water leaks turn any space into a perfect location for mold growth.

Not only is mold unsightly to look at it can also make you sick especially if you are plagued by asthma and allergies.  Even without being troubled with these afflictions exposure to mold can cause irritation to your skin, eyes, throat, nose, and lungs leading to more health problems for you, your family, and pets.

Mold may also cause the life expectancy of your roof to decrease.  Seeing that replacing your homes roof is costly, homeowners want to put this process off as long as they possibly can.  Thus, making your roof last as long as possible, is often a priority for most homeowners.  One way to do this is by taking the time to have small leaks fixed as they occur.  Small leaks that get ignored, small or large, will weaken the structure of the roof.  This will mean that the homes roof will need to be replaced much sooner than it would have if you didn’t ignore the leak in the first place.

It is important to have your homes roof properly inspected twice a year and properly repaired. This will help to assure that is a leak is or has occurred it can be taken care of immediately before it becomes a larger issue.

Home Pro Roofing of Michigan offers professional roofing services including new roof installation and roof repair services using shingling and metal roofing materials.  The roofing contractors of Home Pro Roofing service Kalamazoo, Brighton, Lansing, and the surrounding areas.  More information can be found online at https://homeproroofingmi.com.

Friday, September 7, 2018

Reliable, Reputable Roofing

A roof is one of the most important and essential construction properties of a house. In fact, the cost of roofing a house is almost the same as, if not more then, the cost of erecting the structural building from scratch. Also, the roof of a building determines about 60% of the overall beauty of a house. Therefore, you need the service of professional roofers for perfection.
Whether it is a roof installation, repair, or any other related work, you need the service of a reliable and reputable company that can carry out this task effectively. Here are some ways to insure you are hiring a professional roofing contractor when your roof needs servicing.

Research Options Available in Your Area:

The first step to take when hiring a commercial roofing company is to perform background research on the various options available. The essence of this research is to find out about the companies in the area with impeccable track record of success. Also, you also use your research to find out a company that is certified and has experienced workers that can successfully undertake your project. Generally, the best idea is to choose a trustworthy and reliable company with high-quality service for a long-lasting and effective roof installation, repair, and maintenance.

Ask About Specialization:

Some local roofing contractors have an area of specialization. For instance, a company can specialize in roof installation only while another can specialize in roof repair or some specialize in metal roof installation over asphalt shingling.  It is a wise idea to go for roof installation professionals if you just want to install a new roof. The same is true if want to repair/replace your existing roof although some general roofing contractors offer roofing services it is always best to stick with a contractor specializing in roofing.

Ask About Options in Roofing Materials:

Your potential roofing company must be ready and willing to suggest the different roofing options available, such as slate, metal, shingle, flat roofing, asphalt, and so on. The quality of the material to be used must not be compromised on if you want a sturdy and long-lasting roof.
Referrals, Referrals, Referrals: For any material you choose, your potential roofing contractor must provide you with several patterns, styles, and design options available. This is another important tip that will help you choose the best professional roofers. Ask for referrals of jobs in which the material you are considering was used.  Seeing for yourself the quality and craftsmanship they offer.

Budgeting:

Lastly, your potential roofing company needs to be willing to work with your budget by offering affordable cost of roofing services, free estimation, and special financing. More so, the company must offer an emergency and support services especially after a few weeks of installation, repair or maintenance should in case an emergency occurs, or you have roof-related issues.

Hiring professional roofers is essential in ensuring that your roof is properly installed and well maintained for longevity and effectiveness. There are many local roofing contractors out there and choosing a reputable roofer can seem difficult. The above tips will assist you in choosing the right roofing company for your next roofing installation, repair, and maintenance project.

Home Pro Roofing of Michigan offers professional roofing services including new roof installation and roof repair services using shingling and metal roofing materials.  The roofing contractors of Home Pro Roofing service Kalamazoo, Brighton, Lansing, and the surrounding areas.  More information can be found online at https://homeproroofingmi.com.

Thursday, August 23, 2018

Making Your Home’s Roof More Energy Efficient

You may not give much thought of how your roof may be causing your energy bills to skyrocket, but if you cringe when you open your bill every month, you may want to open your mind as to why it is so high.  Think about how hot it can get up in your attic and how that heat can easily creep through to the other areas of your home.  Since we know that you do not want to sit in an extremely hot house all summer long, we know that you are cranking your air conditioning to compensate for all the extra heat that is seeping inside.

If you have finally had enough, you may want to consider hiring a roofing contractor to see how you can make your roof more energy efficient.
One of the best and easiest options that you have is increasing the insulation inside your attic.  Experienced roof contractors will be able to tell you which type of insulation is best for your home, as well as how much should be in place.  While you do not want too little insulation in your attic, you don’t want to put too much up there either.  The correct amount though, will get you in the right direction for energy efficiency and lower energy bills.

Dark colored shingles will absorb the heat from the sun quite easily, which is why many roofing contractors will recommend adding a cooling coating material to your roof.  Although, the cooling coating material can also be helpful if applied over lighter colored shingles as well.  This coating will not only decrease your energy bills, it will increase the UV and waterproofing protection and extend the life of your roof.

Of course, if your roof is quite old, you may not want to pay the price for a coating cooling material to be applied.  It may be better to replace your roof first and then have the material applied, as you will save more money in the long term.  When you are replacing your roof, we recommend choosing a material that has been designed to provide higher levels of energy efficiency.  We also recommend choosing a lighter color for your roof, as it will not attract and absorb all the heat and rays from the sun.  Instead, those lighter colors will reflect the sun’s rays, which will keep your home much cooler on those hot days.

An experienced roofing contractor can help you find ways to make your roof more energy efficient, which is why you should call them instead of trying to find a solution on your own.  You’ll find that you will see the difference much sooner if you accept their help, which means that you will be more comfortable in your home, while saving money, sooner than you ever thought.

Learn more about Home Pro Roofing and their vast line of custom roofing options installed by professional roofing contractors including: asphalt shingle roofing, metal roofing, roof repair, and new roof installation at www.homeproroofingmi.com.  Our roofing contractors offer services throughout Michigan including: Kalamazoo, Brighton, Lansing, and the surrounding areas.

Thursday, August 9, 2018

4 Ways in Which A New Roof Can Save Homeowners Money on Energy Expenses

Installing a new roof can have a positive effect not only improving your home’s aesthetics but also can help lower your overall energy costs.   Scores of homeowners have experienced a reduction in their energy expenses with the installation of a new roof.  In this installment on residential roofing we will examine four different ways in which having a new roof installed can help lower your energy expenses as a homeowner.

Ventilation:

Proper roof ventilation is crucial in addressing your homes energy costs.  Without proper roofing ventilation the energy costs associated with your home can significantly increase your homes energy bills.  In climates where the temperature is warm, the hot air will get trapped inside the home.  This will force your homes air conditioning system to work harder than normal.  When a roof is properly ventilated, air will flow properly in and out of the area, thus reducing the energy output on cooling system.

Coloring:

The color you and your roofing contractor have chosen will also have an effect on the energy usage of your home.  The color of the roofing material will depend on the climate of where your home is located.  In homes where a colder temperature is the norm will benefit from darker shingling as to absorb the heat of the sun.  Warmer climates require lighter colored roofing to help reflect the sun’s rays off of the home.

Updated Shingling:

Older shingling has a lower shingle rating, usually around 65 mph than newer, more modern styles of shingling.  Updated roofing materials can increase your shingle rating to withstand winds up to 130 mph.  The higher the rating of the shingle basically means that more wind will be kept from entering your home through the roof.  Thus, reducing your heating and cooling expenses.

Energy Star Labeling and Solar Reflectance:

A shingles solar reflectance states how well the sunlight will be reflected off the roof and back up into the environment.  Homes with higher solar roof reflectance can actually reduce the roof’s surface temperature upwards of 30%.  When choosing roofing materials your roofing contractor will show you a number of options, choosing a shingle that has earned the Energy Star Label means that the material is at the top tier of reflecting sunlight.  Thus, lowering the surface temperature upwards of 100 degrees, which naturally decreases energy costs overall.

Learn more about Home Pro Roofing and their vast line of custom roofing options installed by professional roofing contractors including: asphalt shingle roofing, metal roofing, roof repair, and new roof installation at www.homeproroofingmi.com.  Our roofing contractors offer services throughout Michigan including: Kalamazoo, Brighton, Lansing, and the surrounding areas.

Thursday, July 19, 2018

Gutter Maintenance Tips for Rainy Climates

Well-maintained functional gutters can protect your home’s foundation from water damage. This, in turn, can translate into better structural integrity thereby maintaining the value of your investment. Sagging and clogged gutters can overflow, causing damage to the soffit and fascia of your home. By taking care of your roof's drainage system, you not only extend the life of your roof, you can also boost the value of your home and help prevent water damage to your home. Regular maintenance of your homes gutters and roof is crucial especially in regions that receive a significant amount of precipitation.

Unmaintained, dirty, full gutters can decrease the value of your home.  This occurs because of a phenomena known as “tiger stripes”, unsightly marks and stains along the outside walls of a home’s gutter system. Mold can begin to fester along these stripes blackening the whole surface and destroying the original aesthetic look of your precious home.

The steps below apply whether you are utilizing the services of a professional contractor or you are a DIY, do-it-yourself.

Clean Gutters

Clean gutters ensure the rainwater flows freely. They also see to it that leaves and other debris brought about by the rain do not clog the drainage system causing damage to the home. Part of cleaning the gutter involves repairing sagging or loose gutters and replacing the gutter spikes with gutter screws. Gutter screws hold much better than standard gutter spikes, thus providing support and security.

Seal Leaks Promptly

Due to wear and tear, gutters will often have leaks. Inspect these thoroughly and use a water hose to check for leaks in the joints and seams. Most gutter repair experts will recommend using silicone caulk to seal leaking gutters.

Repairing Downspouts

The downspout is the pipe that typically drains rainwater from the roof to the ground level (and away from the building’s foundation). A well-functioning downspout is a must in order to protect your home from water damage. Because this system sometimes becomes clogged, it is important to inspect it regularly for leaves and debris to ensure rainwater continues to flow unimpeded.
In conjunction with a functional downspout is a system of splash blocks that utilize an irrigation pipe. These work together to ensure water flows freely and is diverted from the roof and away from the home's foundation.

Learn more about Home Pro Roofing and their vast line of custom roofing options installed by professional roofing contractors including: asphalt shingle roofing, metal roofing, roof repair, and new roof installation at www.homeproroofingmi.com.  Our roofing contractors offer services throughout Michigan including: Kalamazoo, Brighton, Lansing, and the surrounding areas.

Friday, July 6, 2018

Thinking About Replacing Your Roof? Consider These Few Upgrades

Replacing your roof is a big decision that takes careful consideration. The whole process can not only prove to be a daunting one but can also disturb your home remodeling budget greatly. Furthermore, it can also disturb your normal routine activities because of the construction work going on in your home. Therefore, before you opt for the idea of re-roofing or replacing your roof, consult local roofing contractors and consider these few upgrades that can not only improve the curb appeal of your home but also enhance its value. Have a look at these roof upgrade ideas:

Overlaying

This upgrade method has a lot of perks. It is less costly and requires less labor. Instead of stripping off the roofing material altogether, a layer of shingle is installed on the existing one to give the roof a new and improved look. Since the old roof is not completely stripped off; thus, it doesn’t take a longer duration if you are opting for overlaying. Furthermore, all other costs and expenses related to constructing a new roof are eliminated. This factor makes it a cost-efficient method.
For the best overlaying results, you need to rely on a reputed local shingle roofing company that excels in providing roof overlaying services.

Go for a Different Shaped Shingling

When reroofing, it is advised to go for different shaped shingles rather than opting for the traditional ones. It will give your home a distinct look and add value to it. For a different look, you can opt for zigzags or diamond shape. You can also take help of your local roofing contractors in this matter.

Reflective Shingles

Whether you are going for overlaying or tearing off, make sure you are going for reflective shingles. Not only they are aesthetically pleasing but energy-efficient as well. Since they reflect the sunlight, it doesn’t enter your home, as a result, your home can stay cooler during the hot summer days. There will be a reduced dependency on cooling systems, which will help to bring the electricity bills down. A prominent feature of reflective shingles is that they are now available in an array of materials and colors; thus, you can have an array of choice to select the best ones for your roof.

Make Sure the Roof is Ventilated

Last but not the least, it is important to make sure that your new roof is ventilated. It will help to keep your home cooler. A ventilated roof is particularly helpful for homes that have an attic. In case the roof is not ventilated, attics will heat up.
There are different ways to make a roof ventilated. Contact your local roofing contractors and they will be able to suggest the best possible ways after a thorough inspection of the roof.
Learn more about Home Pro Roofing and their vast line of custom roofing options installed by professional roofing contractors including: asphalt shingle roofing, metal roofing, roof repair, and new roof installation at www.homeproroofingmi.com.  Our roofing contractors offer services throughout Michigan including: Kalamazoo, Brighton, Lansing, and the surrounding areas.

Tuesday, June 26, 2018

Avoid the Pitfalls of DIY Roofing by Hiring a Roofing Contractor

If you are one of the people that thinks that tearing down your old roof and replacing it is going to be a piece of cake, you are going to be one of the many that are wrong!  Tackling a roof is a major undertaking, because the work is strenuous, and it is going to take you much longer than you think that it will.

Roofing contractors replace roofs all the time, after all, that is their job and they can do quality work quickly.  Therefore, the roofing contractor that you hire will ensure that your roof is installed properly and will keep the elements out throughout the next fifteen or twenty years.
Here are 4 pitfalls that you will see if you choose the DIY roofing route instead of hiring a roofing contractor:
  1. Spend Extra Money

You may think that you are going to save money if you replace your roof on your own, but since you are not an expert like a roofing contractor, you may miss out on noticing damage that needs to be repaired.  If you do not make necessary repairs now, you will end up paying more money later on, either when you are finally doing the repairs, or you need to hire a roofing contractor to do the work for you.
  1. No Warranty

Most manufacturers will not honor a warranty on their materials unless a roofing contractor has installed the product.  By replacing your roof on your own, you are not going to have a warranty on any of the work that you have completed.  This will also make it possible that you may end up paying more in the long-term.
  1. Length of Project Will Be Longer

Roofing contractors can easily put a new roof on in a day or two, because they can bring in multiple workers to do the job.  If you replace your roof on your own, you may be looking at it taking a week or even longer before you have laid your last shingle.
  1. Dangerous

Roofs are high off the ground, and some are higher than others.  If you are not used to walking around on a roof, let alone bending over to nail shingles down and dragging piles of shingles up from the ground, there is a good chance that you can fall.  A little slip is one thing, but that little slip can easily end up with you on the ground seriously injured.

Replacing your roof on your own always sounds good at first, but once you really consider the consequences, you will see that a roofing contractor is your best option.  So, get all those DIY thoughts out of your head, call your roofing contractor, and sit back and relax as they do all the work for you. 

Learn more about Home Pro Roofing and their vast line of custom roofing options installed by professional roofing contractors including: asphalt shingle roofing, metal roofing, roof repair, and new roof installation at www.homeproroofingmi.com.  Our roofing contractors offer services throughout Michigan including: Kalamazoo, Brighton, Lansing, and the surrounding areas.

Wednesday, June 20, 2018

5 Things That Occur When You Wait Too Long to Replace Your Roof

It always starts out with a small problem. Maybe a small drip, a tiny hole, or minute cracks in the roof; they are often completely harmless and at the time are not a big deal. However, overtime these small signs can grown into large problems.  These small problems are signs that your roof requires some general repairs and maintenance.
Most people put off repairing their roof because it saves time and money in the short-term. If you neglect repairing your roof in the short term because you think it will save you money you may be surprised to learn that you’ll end up spending more than you would’ve if you had repaired your roof problem earlier. Local shingle roofing companies offer a free consultation on your homes roof and its needed repairs.

Here are 5 things that can happen if you neglect to contact a local roofing contractor to replace/repair your roof when you first notice the small things.

  1. Leaks and Water Damage

The first effect of disregarding your roof is that it may start leaking. Patches of wetness may show up on the roof and gradually down the walls. The paint inside of your home may start to peel. You may ignore these wet patches as nothing but overtime the situation worsens because the leaks expand, allowing more water to enter the crevices and softening the structure. These leaks can cause your roof to sag with the weight and may also destroy electrical wiring resulting in a fire hazard or short-circuit.
  1. Mold and Pests

Wet roofing and walls tend to cause mold to grow and spread. Once mold sets in, it is very hard to remove it. Moreover, it is very expensive to take care of. There may also be the added problem of pests starting to infest the roof. Rodents, insects, lizards and what not.
  1. Worker Safety

The more you delay on contracting a local roofing contractor to fix the roof, the more it’ll become dangerous for workers to work at the last minute. The mold and leaks may cause your ceiling to sag and not hold the extra weight. So, there may be the danger of the roof falling while the roofing contractors work. Moreover, breathing in all the mold for a long time can tire the workers and cause them headaches. The workers will be endangered.
  1. Increased Repair Cost
Because you neglected on repairing/replacing your roof earlier, what seemed as small issues become unignorable issues. If you have the issues fixed as soon as possible at an early stage, you won’t need to replace the whole roof. But if you did neglect on the small issues, later, you will have to spend much more than you would’ve to replace the roof. The longer you take to repair your roof, the more the costs increase.
  1. Health Problems
Because of the growing mold, it may contaminate the air your breath. The leaks may cause puddles and may cause you to slip as well. There is also the added danger of the roof collapsing on you or your family.
Learn more about Home Pro Roofing and their vast line of custom roofing options installed by professional roofing contractors including: asphalt shingle roofing, metal roofing, roof repair, and new roof installation at www.homeproroofingmi.com.  Our roofing contractors offer services throughout Michigan including: Kalamazoo, Brighton, Lansing, and the surrounding areas.

Wednesday, June 13, 2018

The Roof Replacement Process

Replacing a roof can be a time-consuming process, which is why you will want to hire one of the local roofing contractors to do the job for you.  While you could eventually get your roof completed on your own, a local company can provide a more thorough roof replacement within a timely manner, since that is the job that they have been trained for.

The first thing that needs to be done when you are replacing your roof is protecting anything that is nearby.  Outdoor furniture needs to be moved out of the way, tarps can cover plants and bushes, and plywood can also be used to provide a barrier, so items underneath do not get destroyed.
Once everything is out of harm’s way, it will be time to remove the old roofing materials.  This can be a messy project, but if tarps are placed on the ground, the mess will stay contained for the most part.  As soon as the shingles are off your roof, the local roofing contractors should do an inspection to see if any of the wood is rotting or if there is any other structural damage.  These pieces of wood will need to be replaced before the roof is shingled.

Once your roof has been deemed to be in good shape, it is time to prepare it for the new asphalt shingles.  At this time roofing contractors can install drip edges, ice and water shields, and roofing felt is installed.  After all that, it is time to lay out the shingles and nail them in starting at the bottom and working towards the top.  During this process, the counter flashing, ridge vents, and ridge capping is also installed.

Clean up will happen in stages, as it is always a good idea to remove the old roofing materials before the rest of the work begins.  This gets it out of the way and prevents accidents from happening.  Of course, a final clean up should be done when the roof is completed.  The clean-up process should also include removal of the tarps and plywood, and moving the outdoor furniture back into place.
Before local roofing contractors leave, they should always do one final inspection of your roof, to ensure that everything is in place where it should be.  Depending on the size of your roof, it can take a day or longer for a local company to replace your roof.  However, this is normally faster than you could do it on your own, because local roofing contractors always send multiple employees to a job, so that the work is accomplished quickly.

Learn more about Home Pro Roofing and their vast line of custom roofing options installed by professional roofing contractors including: asphalt shingle roofing, metal roofing, roof repair, and new roof installation at www.homeproroofingmi.com.  Our roofing contractors offer services throughout Michigan including: Kalamazoo, Brighton, Lansing, and the surrounding areas.

Wednesday, June 6, 2018

Tips To Prepare For Your Roof Installation

You probably have given it a great deal of thought if you are reading this article. A roof replacement is often a costly and thoughtful undertaking that will not only render your home a construction site for a couple of days, but without the proper preparation and planning the whole construction project may not go as smooth as it should. Even though local roofing contractors go out of their way to assure you that the installation will be as easy as” taking candy from a baby”.  It pays to be prepared. Consider the following tips:
  • Do research on the different types of roofing materials available to you. You will want to have an understanding of the pros and cons of each material and how the materials will best serve your home and family.
  • Check with local roofing contractors and plan for them to install the roof during their off-peak season unless you require an emergency roof installation. Spring and summer are usually their busiest months, however, with clear communication and consultation, they can accommodate your needs. It also pays to be strategic with scheduling because some roof installation (depending on the size of the project) may take longer than others.  You also may be able to get a better deal on your new roof installation if you choose to have the roof installed outside of peak roofing season.
  • There is also the issue of changes in weather to contend with. If you live in an area where it rains 24/7 you will want to have great patience and understanding in working to get the roof installed.
  • Remember that you might be away from your home for most of the roof installation duration, therefore, take the necessary precautions to cover and secure belongings to protect them from falling debris and dust although unlikely can occur. Your local roofer may provide coverings for the exterior part of the house.  Remember to park your vehicle outside of the area to avoid damage.
  • Talk to your local roofer to find out what they need from you. For example, they might require an outside electrical or water source that you may not have and notifying them beforehand will help them come prepared with an alternative.
  • It is also important to board your pets or take them with you because noises during a roof installation may prove too much for them. Roofing is loud.   The last thing that you would want is for your pet to be startled and spooked.
  • Ensure you have a contract signed ahead of time. Also make sure, before you sign on the dotted line, that the roofing contractor that you have chosen is both licensed and insured. 

Learn more about Home Pro Roofing and their vast line of custom roofing options installed by professional roofing contractors including: asphalt shingle roofing, metal roofing, roof repair, and new roof installation at www.homeproroofingmi.com.  Our roofing contractors offer services throughout Michigan including: Kalamazoo, Brighton, Lansing, and the surrounding areas.

Thursday, May 31, 2018

Increasing Your Home’s Value by Installing A New Roof

Every part of the house is significant and makes an impact on the overall value of the home when calculated together. However, certain parts of the home seem to carry a bit more weight when it comes to making improvements. This is especially true when you look at the exterior of your home. The roof is probably one of the most overlooked when it comes to making value-added improvements.

Most people only consider the roof when there is significant enough damage that it allowed for water to get in and there is signs on the inside of it is far too obvious that the roof has seen better days and really needs some work. A big reason why most people don't consider installing a new roof unless there is a really good reason is that it can be quite costly unless insurance is paying to repair the damage.

It is really important to check out a number of local roofing contractors in order to find the best one for your job. You want to be sure that they have a good reputation and that their previous clients have been happy with their work. Be sure that the roofing company you go with are shingle roofers and that they have the experience that you are needing to get your job done right.

6 Ways a new roof can increase the appraisal of your home

Reduces perceived maintenance costs


The roof is an important part of the house as it protects the inside from the possible damage from the elements on the outside. Knowing that you recently put on a new roof will definitely help to give the buyers and appraisers a feeling that overall maintenance costs will be lower with a newer roof.

Improves overall energy efficiency

Depending on the specifics of the materials that were used and how the roof was installed, a brand-new roof will definitely significantly improve the homes overall energy efficiency. The more energy efficient your home is, it will help to improve the appraised value as well.

Increase curb appeal

Curb appeal is extremely important when it comes to appraised value and making your home significantly more valuable. The appearance of the roof can make or break the appearance of the exterior of your home and therefore you need to pay more or closer attention to the look of your roof.
Get a transferable warranty
Warranties are extremely important, and this includes the warranty that will comes with the purchase of a new roof. Warranties can be extremely tricky and depend on the fine print will be the determining factor. You should always consider getting a transferable warranty for anything having to do with your home.
Helps to make your house stand out
The beauty of a new roof cannot be overstated when it comes to the appraisal of your home. Having your home stand out from the crowd in the neighborhood will also help to add value when it comes to getting a very good appraisal. You should at least consider getting a new roof put on so that your home will stand out.
Roof material can help to get a favorable appraisal 
Knowing the specific details about the roof, including the types of materials that were used to install the roof can positively affect the appraisal. Depending on the area that you live in certain types of roofing material might be better and therefore adds to the possibility of a higher appraisal.

Learn more about Home Pro Roofing and their vast line of custom roofing options installed by professional roofing contractors including: asphalt shingle roofing, metal roofing, roof repair, and new roof installation at www.homeproroofingmi.com.  Our roofing contractors offer services throughout Michigan including: Kalamazoo, Brighton, Lansing, and the surrounding areas.

Wednesday, May 23, 2018

7 Reasons Why Your Roof Should Be Installed by A Professional Contractor

If it’s time to replace your home’s roof, it’s best to leave such a huge and complex job up to the professionals. No matter how handy you are or how many DIY home projects you’ve done, you really shouldn't mess with your home’s roof. Roofing contractors know what they’re doing and have installed numerous roofs before so for them your roof is just another day at the office. Skip trying to replace your home’s roof yourself and hire a roofing contractor instead.  Here are some additional reasons why you should leave roof installation to the professionals:

Years of Experience

The biggest factor is getting your roof installed by a roofing contractor is that they have experience. They also have the training and expertise need to do the job right, as well as the knowledge of the best materials and techniques.

They Will Get the Job Done Right

Since they have the experiences, shingle roofers will get the job done right. As professionals, they’ll take pride in the work and will make sure the roof is how it’s supposed to be and look to ensure customers are happy with the new roofs.

Roofing Contractors Know What Precautions To Take

Being on top of a roof can be dangerous, which is another reason why you shouldn’t do it yourself. With a professional roofing contractor, they’ll come equipped with all the necessary safety equipment needed to complete the job without any injuries or accidents.

Less Time Will Be Involved

If you hire an amateur or try to do your roof yourself, you might save a few bucks, but it’ll take you a very long time to finish! Roofing contractor knows what they’re doing and will get the job done right and on time so that you don’t have to spend months trying to finish the job.
Peace of Mind
Your home is important to you and roofing contractors will provide you with a new roof that will meet your needs so that you have peace of mind that your roof won’t be a shoddy job.
Increased Property Value
Hiring a professional to come and do your new roof will increase your home’s resale value by a lot.  A new roof is one of the best investments you can make when looking at returns on your investments.
Lower Material Costs
Contractors in general have the ability to get materials at lower costs than regular DIY homeowners.  Many will pass this material savings on to you in an effort to win the bid for your job.
Learn more about Home Pro Roofing and their vast line of custom roofing options installed by professional roofing contractors including: asphalt shingle roofing, metal roofing, roof repair, and new roof installation at www.homeproroofingmi.com.  Our roofing contractors offer services throughout Michigan including: Kalamazoo, Brighton, Lansing, and the surrounding areas.

Wednesday, May 16, 2018

Common Shingle Roof Maintenance Increases Your Roofs Health

In construction on of the single most expensive elements is the roof.  When a roofing contractor is hired they are aware that it is their duty to protect the homeowner’s investment with proper installation as well as educating them on the basics of regular maintenance.  One of the biggest misconceptions is that once a new roof is installed you can be hands off as a homeowner.  Hiring a professional roofing contractor to do a thorough roof inspection and maintenance upkeep on the roof is vital for the longevity of your roof, at least once a year.

Asphalt is the most commonly used material in residential roofing.  In fact, not only is it the most common material for Michigan roofs, studies suggest that one in five homeowners throughout the United States.  Not only do asphalt shingles look nice when installed, they are easy to install on a number of different house styles and are durable throughout many different weather elements.
Even though asphalt roofs are known to take quite a bit of abuse damage can still occur.

Common damage to the roof includes:

  • Weather elements: sun, wind, hail, rain, and snow
  • Biological elements: algae, mold, leaves, twigs
  • Improper installation or faulty repairs
Even though your roof may look like it is in tip top shape there may be damage that that is unseen to the untrained eye.  Upkeep on the homes roof ensures that it is in proper condition to protect your home and family.  Inexpensive maintenance investments may keep expensive repairs down the road.  Once a year, twice preferred, it is important to have the shingle roof inspected and repaired as needed by a professional roofer.

Maintenance Of Your Roof

The first step in regular maintenance that needs to be done is general housekeeping, just as we would with the interior of our home.  Housekeeping on a roof includes cleaning the debris, leaves, and algae from the shingles.  As this process is done roofing contractors will pay special attention to the roofs skylights, vents, chimney flashing, ventilation, and more.  During this process it will be important to ensure that the debris is deposited appropriately and not left to enter the homes gutters.  Gutters must stay clear and free of debris to allow proper water flow away from the homes foundation.

After the roof has been cleared of debris it is time for the roofer to perform a detailed inspection of the roof.  They will be looking for issues that could spell trouble down the road.  Finding a roofer that will work with you year after year is important because they are familiar with your roof and will be able to catch differences faster than if switching contractors often.

Minor Repairs To Roof To Extend Life

After the roof has been cleaned and inspected it is time to repair any and all issues that have been found.  Common repairs include: replacing or repairing shingles, flashing, gutters, and downspouts.  The repairs done to keep up on your roof will help the longevity of your roof.  The money spent on roofing repairs is well spent.  Roof repairs are inexpensive in comparison to the installation of a new roof.
Last but not least is record keeping.  Homeowners and roofing professionals need to keep an updated log on maintenance and repairs on the roof.  These logs should include updated images of the roof in case there are questions during previous inspections.  It will be simpler to determine the amount of actual wear.

Learn more about Home Pro Roofing and their vast line of custom roofing options installed by professional roofing contractors including: asphalt shingle roofing, metal roofing, roof repair, and new roof installation at www.homeproroofingmi.com.  Our roofing contractors offer services throughout Michigan including: Kalamazoo, Brighton, Lansing, and the surrounding areas.

Friday, May 11, 2018

Professional Roof Installation Increases Your Roofs Life Expectancy

Do it yourself home improvements are quite popular however, there are a few renovations around the house, such as a new roof, that are better left to the professionals.   Online instructions and YouTube videos may make it appear simpler than it really is.  Regarding new roof installation, replacement roofing, and roof repair an expert in roofing is more than worth their value.
Roofing contractors have years of experience in their field.  No video tutorial can provide the knowledge that comes from years of training and experience that professional roofers have.  Professional roofers are aware of how different materials will adhere to the homes roof and the different tools needed to do the job correctly.

Roofing is incredibly technical and if even one aspect is altered, or a step is missed problems can arise later down the road.  Skilled roofing contractors know what problems to look for, what triggers leaks, and what damage needs to be looked for in replacement roofing and roof repairs.  Roofing contractors are not only qualified they offer varying degrees of warranties while providing services that are insured.  Licensed roofers have experience that go a long way to increase the life expectancy of the roof.

Benefits to Professional Roof Installation

  • Increased home value: Replacing your homes roof can increase your homes value upwards of $15,000.
  • Improved Appearance: Quality roofing, installed properly will provide your homes roof a flawless looking surface. Choosing a complementary color of shingling can enhance the overall look of the home as well.  Shingle roofs can duplicate the look of several materials from slate to tile but with the increased lifespan of asphalt. 
  • Greater Warranties and Roofing Guarantees: For roofs installed by professional roofers the standard material guarantee is anywhere between twelve to eighteen years. When using premium materials, a home’s roofs guarantees can be upwards of fifty years. 
  • Roofing Technology: Contrary to popular belief, some types of asphalt roof shingles have a power star rating because they're designed to reflect solar heat, therefore reducing cooling costs for a longer life span.
  • Prevention of Inspection Issues: Whenever a home is put up for sale, the roof is one of the very most visible features -not merely to prospective home buyers but also to building appraisers and inspectors. A roof in poor condition can stop a home deal. That is why it's best if you get a professional roofing contractor to do the installation as they know what to go for.

Finding the Right Contractor

Your homes roof is a large investment.  It is important to take your time to find a professional, reliable roofing contractor to get the job done. Never allow yourself to compromise quality for price.

Learn more about Home Pro Roofing and their vast line of custom roofing options installed by professional roofing contractors including: asphalt shingle roofing, metal roofing, roof repair, and new roof installation at www.homeproroofingmi.com.  Our roofing contractors offer services throughout Michigan including: Kalamazoo, Brighton, Lansing, and the surrounding areas.

Wednesday, May 2, 2018

5 Ways in Which Roofing Contractors Improve Your Roofs Longevity

Your home is one of the most important investments that you will make in your life and it only makes perfect sense to protect this investment by ensuring that you carry out regular maintenance and repairs to keep it in pristine conditions. Even though the roof is a fundamental element of a home, many homeowners are guilty of giving it little to no thought up until there is an issue or irreparable damage. Repairing a badly damaged roof is not only a costly undertaking, but it is also can be disrupting to everyday life.
Damage to your roof is inevitable, however, if it does occur and left untreated, several things can go wrong due to the insufficient care of shingles, which in turn, will shorten the life of your roof significantly. Your roof also serves as a great selling point and if it is well-maintained it will increase the resale value, therefore, hiring the professional services of roofing contractors for periodic inspections and installation will ensure your roof is free of insidious damages that may be occurring without your knowledge. 
The most important part of the check-up is to follow through with repairs to the roofing problems. Consider the following ways which roofing contractors can improve your roofs longevity.
  • Uncover hidden damages

Preventative maintenance conducted by roofing contractors can expose small leaks and remedy them before they became major problems. The slightest leak that goes unattended can cause damage to the framing of the house and cause structural damage and can also compromise insulation and promote old growth that can lead to health problems. Additionally, leaks can contact electrical wiring and can create an open circuit that could lead to a fire if there is any break in the insulation.
  • Debris removal

The roof collects a lot of debris that can cause major damage to shingles and the roof structure. Before attending to any damages, shingle roofers will address the underlying problem, which is to clear the roof of debris that may block water flow in the gutters. Doing this beforehand will maintain the longevity of your roof because it’s free of fungal and algae growth that weaken the roofing structure.
  • Saves heating and cooling costs

Hiring roofing contractors will help in keeping the roof vents well ventilated because when heat and humidity become trapped, they cause damage to underpinnings and wood rafters in the attic of your home. Keeping a well-ventilated roof is a sure-fire way to save money on heating and cooling.
  • Climatic knowledge

Roofing contractors are the best people to seek advice from about the most climate-suitable roofing product for your region to prevent inclement weather from causing irreparable damage to your roof.
  • Building code familiarity
Hiring roofing contractors who are well-versed in the building codes in your area will ensure your home complies with the latest requirements, thus keeping your roof protected from the elements in the future.
Learn more about Home Pro Roofing and their vast line of custom roofing options installed by professional roofing contractors including: asphalt shingle roofing, metal roofing, roof repair, and new roof installation at www.homeproroofingmi.com.  Our roofing contractors offer services throughout Michigan including: Kalamazoo, Brighton, Lansing, and the surrounding areas.

Wednesday, April 25, 2018

Pros and Cons of Reroofing vs Repair

Does your home need to be reroofed or repaired? Signs that it might time to consider roof maintenance include bald spots, cracked shingles, shingle edges that are curled, shingle tabs that are cupped or if your roof is at least 20 years old. If any of these apply, it may be time to think about investing in roof repair or reroofing. But you might be asking yourself if you can simply repair the existing one, hopefully saving you money instead of shelling out major bucks for an entirely new roof. Here’s some useful information on how to decide which one is better for your roof, home and wallet:

Reroofing

The process of reroofing is simply layering new shingles over the existing ones. This saves you time and money for roofing repairs since the roofing company simply needs to place new ones on top of the old ones instead of tearing it all off to start fresh. The general rule when it comes to roofing is that if you have already two layers of roofing material in place on top of your home, you have to start new and replace everything.

Roof Replacement

A new roof replacement is tearing off everything on your roof so that only the deck is left. Roofers will then place new material down and new shingles, resulting in a brand-new roof. You can opt to completely replace your roof no matter how many layers of shingles your home has. Since roof replacement requires more work and time, it’s often costlier than simply reroofing.

When You Can Go with Reroofing

Your home might be a good candidate for reroofing if it’s nearing the end of its lifespan, but still not in great shape. This type of roof can have minor issues like leaks, and cracks, but it should not have major water damage, missing shingles or have lots of mildew or moss growth on it. If this is the case, you’re going to need a total roof replacement.

When You Shouldn’t Go with Reroofing

Although it might seem like a good and cost-effective way to repair your roof, reroofing isn’t a good idea all the time since you’re not lifting up existing shingles, so you don’t know what the actual roof deck looks like. Although some problems can be spotted before the shingles come off, most of the time the problem lies beneath the deck like rot or sagging. When you simply add a new layer of shingles on top, you’re not fixing any problems that may exist underneath the shingling.

Learn more about Home Pro Roofing and their vast line of custom roofing options installed by professional roofing contractors including: asphalt shingle roofing, metal roofing, roof repair, and new roof installation at www.homeproroofingmi.com.  Our roofing contractors offer services throughout Michigan including: Kalamazoo, Brighton, Lansing, and the surrounding areas.

Wednesday, April 18, 2018

Michigan Roofs: Coordinating The Color Of Your Roof To The Homes Exterior

A new roof for your home can be quite exciting.  It is one of the only times, besides replacing the siding or a new room addition, where the exterior of your home will be transformed.  It can be a bit scary for some homeowners as you will live with this decision for the length of time you own your home.  As a professional roofing contractor, it is important to ease homeowners concerns and present the options that are best suited for their home.  This helps to create a situation where homeowners can’t make the “wrong” decision.

Being a Michigan roofing contractor for over 20+ years means that I have had a lot of experience with the climate and understand how your roofing materials are affected by the drastic changes in temperature.  With the difference in temperature Michigan roofs are different than a lot of others; your roofing can be light or dark.  Where as homes in southern states would likely benefit from a lighter shingle that would help deflect sunlight.

Another element that is crucial is that the exterior colors of your home coordinate.  Homes with blue or gray tones would coordinate with a black roof where as cream or tan homes look better with brown toned roofs.  It is crucial to the overall look of your home to coordinate the shingle style and color with the exterior.  Take into consideration any future exterior siding or masonry work that you will be done.  It is also good to note that darker roofing makes homes appear smaller than they actually are whereas lighter roofing, gray or light brown shingles, tend to make home look bigger overall.
The neighborhood is another factor to consider when choosing roofing materials.  Have you investigated the regulations set forth by your homeowner’s association and local ordinances; especially important within city limits.  Certain colors, materials, and styles of shingling and metal are considered statement roofing which is a great way to distinguish your home but some HOA’s are looking to avoid any one home in the area from drawing attention.  It may also be important to you and your neighbors that your home not to stick out like a sore thumb and clash with neighboring houses.

To view samples of different roofing materials or to virtually view how the materials will look when placed on your home give Home Pro Roofing a call.  Our professional roofing contractors specialize in bringing professional roofing results to homeowners throughout Michigan including: Kalamazoo, Brighton, Lansing, and the surrounding areas.

Learn more about Home Pro Roofing and their vast line of custom roofing options installed by professional roofing contractors including: asphalt shingle roofing, metal roofing, roof repair, and new roof installation at www.homeproroofingmi.com.  Our roofing contractors offer services throughout Michigan including: Kalamazoo, Brighton, Lansing, and the surrounding areas.

Thursday, April 12, 2018

Qualities to Look for In a Roofer

It doesn’t matter if you are having a house built, a new building, a shop, or a plaza you will need to find a roofing contractor.   No matter what type of structure is being constructed a roof is a vital part of the building.  From residential homes to massive malls, a roof is needed to protect the structural integrity of the space and the contents within.
A roofing contractor will critically analyze the architecture of the building and present the acceptable options in different roofing materials that would be acceptable to use the project at hand.  It is vital that when choosing a contractor to install your new roof that you choose the best possible roofer available.  To do this, you will need to do some leg work.  It is imperative to work with a roofer that not only has a solid reputation in the industry but is also licensed and insured.   Below you will find several qualities to look for when hiring a roofer.
Licensed and Insured
The roofing company that you hire for any new roof or roof repair should be both licensed and insured.  Look for a roofing contractor with a stellar reputation within the community.  When a roofer is insured you have assurance that you will not be help responsible for any damages that occur on or to your property while you new roof is being installed.  It is a safety net that needs to be in place to avoid liability.  When a roofer is licensed it means that the contractor has a license issued by the state which certifies the individual as a roofer.
Understand Your Vision
With any contractor it is important that they work with you and not against you.  You are looking for an individual that considers your worries and queries throughout the process.  It is crucial that you are satisfied with the physical labor as well as the roofing contractors understanding of your project while treating you, the client, with the utmost care.
Consistency
An important aspect to keep in mind is that many roofing contractors initially charge you less but as the work comes in mid-process, they demand more and more additional charges. This not only counts as fraud conducted by the roofers from backing off their initial agreement but also serves as a reason of great agitation and frustration for the one in hiring position. Make sure that you make clear terms prior to the beginning of the work with an agreement signed on agreeable terms of both parties.  Reputable roofing contractors will lay out terms in clear, concise terms.
The right roofer for building the roof is as vital as building any other part of the house. A roof is characterized by being light enough to remain steady on the walls and providing protection. Hence, a roofer should be able enough to comprehend your desires and execute them in physical form with utmost responsibility and accurate precision.
Learn more about Home Pro Roofing and their vast line of custom roofing options installed by professional roofing contractors including: asphalt shingle roofing, metal roofing, roof repair, and new roof installation at www.homeproroofingmi.com.  Our roofing contractors offer services throughout Michigan including: Kalamazoo, Brighton, Lansing, and the surrounding areas.

Thursday, April 5, 2018

Preventing Future Problems with Proper Roofing Ventilation

Good roof ventilation is imperative, but many homeowners don’t understand why it’s so important.  When your roof is adequately ventilated, it lasts longer. In bad weather, the roof’s ventilation helps protect your roof from ice dam which occurs when the ice accumulated on the roof prematurely thaws. Ventilation also helps discharge heat that might build up beneath the roof and cause premature thawing of snow on the roof.

Release of Moisture

Other than conserving energy and protecting your roof from the effects of climatic changes, adequate ventilation protects all aspects of the roof’s structure by discharging moisture which could easily collect without proper ventilation.  During the summers or in extreme weather conditions, moisture is likely to get trapped beneath your roof. When moisture is trapped beneath the roof deck, it can cause all types of problems. Any metallic objects found in the roofing such as nails become vulnerable following exposure to moisture. Once these metallic elements are compromised your roof will start falling apart.

Complete Ventilation

Some ventilation techniques are better than others. When ventilation is poor, the sole purpose of having ventilation in the first place will be compromised. Part of your roofing structure with less ventilation will be more vulnerable to effects of climate change, moisture and other influences. Ensuring your roofing structure is ventilated in all the right places is the best way to protect your roofing and property from damage.

The ventilation on your roofing structure should help get rid of inconsistencies exhibited by methods designed to provide partial ventilation to your roofing structure.
Fixing problems that arise from poor roofing structures can be very costly and worse still, the damage already done might require that you replace your entire roofing structure. Ensuring that the roofing ventilation is adequate from the onset is the best way to safeguard your property and protect your roof.

Choosing A Certified Contractor

Ensure that you work with a certified contractor with experience when ventilating your roof. A good contractor will not just get the job done, but they will also do a superior job that will save you lots of money in the long term.

These are the key benefits of ensuring that your roof is well ventilated and staying safe from the drawbacks of a poorly ventilated roof. When the work is properly done, you will certainly enjoy your home for many years to come.

Learn more about Home Pro Roofing and their vast line of custom roofing options installed by professional roofing contractors including: asphalt shingle roofing, metal roofing, roof repair, and new roof installation at www.homeproroofingmi.com.  Our roofing contractors offer services throughout Michigan including: Kalamazoo, Brighton, Lansing, and the surrounding areas.

Monday, March 26, 2018

Extending the Lifespan of Your Home’s Roof

Many individuals discover their rooftops need repair or replacement.  This is usually caused by various reasons but improper care and maintenance is always on the top of the reasons list. One thing that you can do is to hire a professional roofing contractor who should be skilled enough to manage your labor work, buying the material in bulk, and most importantly experience always matters. If you wish to improve the life expectancy of your roof consult with a professional roofing company to discuss maintenance, repairs, and roof replacement.

Following are some of the tips to improve the lifespan of your home’s roof:

Initial Rooftop Checkup

The primary essential tip to enhance the life expectancy of a rooftop is to have an extensive review of your current roof.  There are a lot of things to check in a rooftop that may diminish the rooftop's life expectancy if left untreated.

For example, to expand the life expectancy of a rooftop is the use of skylights. Sometimes dust and debris get stuck into the seals around the skylights. It loosens the seal and ultimately water can go into these free seals and add dampness to the rooftop.
Likewise, the used roofing material should also be checked. A property holder should ensure that the shingles, shakes on their house are not harmed. Watermarks on the wood in an upper room may imply that the rooftop is spilling. This also indicates where the leak is occurring so a repair can easily be made without much hassle.

Cleaning of Roof is Must

The next thing which is most important to be considered is the cleanliness of the roof. Standard cleaning of the top roof of a home unquestionably pays its profits. An unclean rooftop is more inclined to cause harm and damage.

The first and most basic thing that should be cleaned from rooftops is trash. There is a considerable measure of reasons why debris should be cleaned from a rooftop. Moisture really causes harm to the rooftop. Stale water on a rooftop can turn into a reproducing ground for bugs and infections.
One of the most ignored parts of the roof is the gutter. It is very important to clean out the gutters. Debris in gutters can cause blockages. If water can't pass through these difficult blockages, there is a chance that water will not get through and cause moisture damage to the roof. Sometimes, these blocked gutters become a cause of increased water flow which ultimately shows leakages and cracks with time.

Removing Moisture and its Signs Completely from the Roof

The most vital and most basic thing to expel from rooftops is water and consequent moisture. Property holders should search for indications of dampness on their rooftop and after that dispose of the source from where the water is coming. Stale water is one of the most common causes of harming rooftops.

With these basic steps and a proper consultancy from a local roofing company, you can easily prevent all those causes which causes serious damage to the rooftop. It is anything but difficult to anticipate harm to a rooftop and doing as such will save the homeowner from sending costly repairing costs to the skilled roofing contractor.

Learn more about Home Pro Roofing and their vast line of custom roofing options installed by professional roofing contractors including: asphalt shingle roofing, metal roofing, roof repair, and new roof installation at www.homeproroofingmi.com.  To contact one of our roofing contractors, call 810.225.9080 today.

Thursday, March 8, 2018

The Number One Reason to Hire a Professional Roofing Contractor to Install your New Roof

The roof is one of the most important parts of your property as it is crucial to the overall aesthetics and security of your home. A roof installation project is a one of the biggest home projects you would ever be involved in. Although hiring a roofing contractor may seem like an expensive investment, you would be saving more time and money in the long run. Why do you need a professional building contractor to install your new roof?

Mistakes Are Lessened

This is the major reason you need a professional roofing contractor. Engaging in a DIY roof installation project is very risky. You are likely to make little mistakes, and this can have very severe consequences. In fact, a major cause of roofing problems today is because of improper roof installation. That improper usage of shingle or incorrect number of nails could make your roof vulnerable to leaks and in need of maintenance soon.

Selection

There are different roofing types in the market today – each with their unique pros and cons. Hiring the services of a local roofing company will save you any roof selection headaches. The hired professionals will help you select the best roof type that would perfectly fit the overall aesthetics of your property and project the appeal of your home.

Roof Installation

Once the perfect roof has been chosen for your property, the local roofing company will install it for you. Since you would be working with professionals, you can rest assured the job will be done efficiently, reducing your cost in the long run. The roofing company will also provide a warranty and assurance that the installed roof will work well for years – as was designed by its manufacturers.

Materials and Equipment

Hiring a local roofing contractor means you would not have to spend money to purchase any materials and equipment. These companies already have all the tools for installation of your roof – equipment and materials of top quality. If you engage in a DIY roofing project, you may have to buy roofing equipment just for the project. Hiring a building contractor is very cost effective.
Roof installation requires complex skill-set. You must adhere to safety concerns, local regulations, and manufacturer’s specifications. Since professional building contractors have the needed experience as experts in the field, you stand a better chance of having a proficient and well finished job in the end.

Learn more about Home Pro Roofing and their vast line of custom roofing options installed by professional roofing contractors including: asphalt shingle roofing, metal roofing, roof repair, and new roof installation at www.homeproroofingmi.com.  To contact one of our roofing contractors, call 810.225.9080 today.

Wednesday, February 21, 2018

Why Roof Replacement May Be Your Best Home Improvement

Roof repair and replacement is not a fun project and considered a hassle. Especially because its not just a quick DIY project to fix something up.  Finding a roofing contractor can be a daunting task but is necessary when your roof needs maintenance, repair, or replacement. Although there may be a lot of things you need to fix at home, the roof is your primary defense against the weather; hence, it should be a priority whenever you consider your options for home improvement. Here are a few reasons that would help you consider the importance of prioritizing roof replacement during your home repairs and improvement projects.

Cost Effective

Even if you are considering moving into a new home in the future, putting off roof repairs for too long could be catastrophic. Over time, little cracks can turn into big disasters in the near future if they are not taken care of. When you call a roofing contractor for the repairs, you would be fixing the issues at minor costs and save a whole lot in the long run.

Roofs Affect Property Value

If you are considering selling off your property in the near future, investing your time, effort, and some money into roof repairs and replacement is a great idea. No buyer will show interest in an apartment that would demand big roof repairs immediately they move in and it is easy to discover a neglected roof.  It is obvious from the inside and outside of the home. On the other hand, a roof that requires little to no repairs would allow you demand for your desired asking price.

Insurance

Fixing your roof on time is also cost effective for your insurance in the long run as your insurance adjuster will be able to tell if you took a lot of time before calling a professional. If you request the services of a roofing contractor as soon as you notice any damage, it is very likely that your insurance will cover most of the costs involved. However, if you delay in fixing an issue, you would likely only be compensated for the costs involved in a simple repair job. This will cost you a lot in the long run. A simple fix for your roof, a simple cost you incur.

Although roof repair may not be an exciting project, it is very important. No one wants to be involved in the major costs involved in a total replacement.  In fact, you would hardly engage in a roof replacement more than once or twice with proper maintenance. If you continuously put off roof repairs, you would soon be forced into a replacement which will be a lot more expensive and a lot more “no fun”. As soon as you notice an issue, go on to call a specialist and get your roof fixed immediately.  It should indeed be top of your home improvement considerations.

Learn more about Home Pro Roofing and their vast line of custom roofing options installed by professional roofing contractors including: asphalt shingle roofing, shingle roof repair, and new shingle roof installation at http://homeproroofingmi.com/residential-roofing-services-shingle-roofs.php.  To contact one of our roofing contractors, call 810.225.9080 today.

Thursday, February 8, 2018

Winter Upgrades for Your Michigan Home

The worst thing to happen to your roof is for the structure to fail during the worst months of the year. Wind, rain, and snow can cause deterioration to that leads to roof repairs or a new roof installation. The last thing you want to do is call a roofing contractor in the middle of the winter but sometimes it is necessary. Don’t leave your winter upgrades to the last minute in Michigan. Now that spring is on the way, it’s time to consider winter upgrades for your Michigan home.

First Step To Prep For Winter

Your roofing contractor will help you to get your roof ready for winter. This begins by booking an appointment for them to come by and do a visual inspection of your house. They will do an exterior inspection of your roofing system first.

A visual inspection can help to prevent smaller problems from turning into larger ones—in this case bad roof leaks that can damage your house. Even having clogged gutters or loose shingles can cause problems.

During a visual inspection, your roofing contractor will look for missing, loose, or damaged shingles. You may be able to see some problems from the ground, but they’ll be able to climb up to the roof and have a closer look.

Taking Care of Any Roof Repairs

If there are any roof repairs required, they should be fixed right away. Even if you plan on having a new roof installation done over the summer, get these little things fixed now. Shingles and shakes can be replaced, as long as the original ones can be matched.

Resealing may also need to be done. Expert roofers will be able to caulk around flashings, vents, chimney stacks, etc. Even though shingles may have a lifetime warranty, you’ll still have to do the maintenance to keep them lasting.

Tree branches can also affect the lifetime of a roof. It may be recommended that trees be cut back from your roof or house during the warmer months. It’s recommended that they are cut at least two feet from your roof and gutters. Trimming will also prevent an excess of debris falling on the building.

Cleaning Your Gutters

Cleaning is also an important part of your roof’s winter upgrade. These should include cleaning out all gutters and downspouts. This task should be done once per season. When preparing for winter, have it done in late November. Downpipes should be inspected. They should be directed at five feet from the foundation. This is the new requirement to keep water from getting into your house.

It’s also important to check the ventilation of your attic to the outside. An overheated attic could cause excess moisture inside. Your attic should also have the right amount of insulation.  Many roofing contractors will offer you a free housing inspection that covers all these structures within your home and more. Hopefully you only need roof repairs, but it could also be time for a new roof installation. By the time next winter arrives, you’ll be relieved that all the hard tasks of winterizing your home have been done. Now you can enjoy a warm and comfy home!

Learn more about Home Pro Roofing and their vast line of custom roofing options installed by professional roofing contractors including: asphalt shingle roofing, metal roofing, roof repair, and new roof installation at www.homeproroofingmi.com.  To contact one of our roofing contractors, call 810.225.9080 today.

Thursday, January 25, 2018

Support Local Roofing Contractors With Your Business

One of the best ways of supporting your local economy is by supporting local, independent businesses. This not only ensures that more money stays within your community, but also local businesses are more accountable to their local communities and in one way or another, they create employment opportunities and are invested in the well-being of the community and its future.

Choosing A Local Roofing Company

Can you say the same about your local roofing company? Are they knowledgeable about your home’s specific requirements? Do you trust them to undertake a major roofing project and deliver on time and in a professional manner? The main advantage of using your local roofing company, as opposed to a nationally owned business, is that your local contractor needs your business and wants to earn your trust and will provide you with local references so that you can see for yourself the nature of their workmanship and how well they relate to other customers.

A local roofing company with bad credibility will give you the run around until the soles of your feet are sore. A proactive local roofing contractor will always be looking around the neighborhood to assess damages or roofs that need repairs and will offer sound advice to the local community on popular architectural styles, color schemes, affordable yet durable roofing materials and much more, whether or not he or she gets the roofing job.

Proper Licensing

Contrary to popular belief, not all local roofing contractors are ‘cowboy builders’ who are only after your hard earned money and end up doing a substandard job and taking off on you. In fact, most of make it a point to get a certified roofing license. This means that they have taken the time and money to undergo industry-specific training and meet safety standards just to prove to their clients that they are experienced and knowledgeable in their field.

Depending on the state, local roofing contractors are required to submit various documents such as proof of identity, background and credit checks, education, experience, test results, etc. They also must pay a licensing fee to the state licensing board to prove that they indeed have an actual job experience; they are safe and financially responsible.

Things To Look For When Interviewing

With this in mind, it is, however, important to become a discerning customer before hiring a local roofing company because failure to do so, a poor job can mean costly roof repairs and leaks in the future. Move on to the next roofing company if the one you are interviewing does not address the following concerns:
  • It is a definite cause for concern if they do not provide their company's full name, contacts, and address
  • They do not have a workman's compensation and liability insurance to protect you in the event of an accident
  • Your local council does not recognize their license
  • They do not have references from other homeowners that you can visit and check their previous work
  • They do not have a valid roofing company warranty that guarantees their work

Learn more about Home Pro Roofing and their vast line of custom roofing options installed by professional roofing contractors including: asphalt shingle roofing, metal roofing, roof repair, and new roof installation at www.homeproroofingmi.com.  To contact one of our roofing contractors, call 810.225.9080 today.

Wednesday, January 3, 2018

Trends for Roofing in 2018

When you own a home, it is important to keep up with the latest trends in remodeling and updates that are popular in newer homes.  It is fun to modify the interior design of the home with changing fashion sense that adds to the warmth and beauty of the home while updating the aesthetics of your living space.

Changes To Roofing Upgrades

Homeowners often find small ways to incorporate updates into kitchens, bathrooms, bedrooms, and even landscapes.  One trend that is often overlooked but should not be when it comes to home renovations is roofing.  Trends for roofing keep changing to better acclimate to climate changes, more durable materials, and more eye appealing styles that add a touch of beauty to the exterior of the home.

Here we have highlighted few popular roofing trends for 2018:

Lighter Colors:
Darker roofs have been and remain a popular option in roofing but 2018 brings us later shades of roofing materials.  Roofing contractors say the market is now influenced by later shades of shingling.  Most shingles that are being installed now-a-days are being produced with natural color shades such as off white, beige, and taupe. 

Concrete Roofing:
Roofing trend followers say that concrete roofing is gaining more attention from homeowners in 2018 as it is one of the most durable materials available in roofing.  Now, I know what you may be thinking but concrete roofing today is not the colorless grey concrete seen in old school buildings instead trends have revolutionized the appearance of concrete. Now you can choose waterproof, durable, heavier and sturdier designs and colors of concrete roofing. The biggest benefit of installing a concrete roofing is for areas where violent storms are a common trouble. These durable and sturdy roofing solutions can keep your house safe for the long run.

Unique Shapes:
It is time to think out of the box with creative designs of arched and curved shapes to add more beauty to the exterior of your house. You can also look for gambrel shapes that are finished with a combination of soft and steep slopes. These shapes are visually appealing with their attractive trims and angled finishes. Licensed roofing contractors can help you to find right choices with ease.

Energy Conservation:
What if your new roofing style can help you to conserve energy as well? It will help you to save more on electricity bills. Most of the people these days are looking forward towards solar panel based roofing designs. The cool roof technology is also gaining more popularity as it helps to maintain the temperature inside the house by reducing the requirement of air conditioning.

Eco-Friendly roofs:
How can we forget to talk about the latest green roofing designs? They are one of the most attractive choices for urban areas where people do not find space to grow herbs and maintain their personal gardens. The green roofs make them able to plant flowers, shrubs, and herbs on the roof with ease. Roof based gardens are easier to maintain and they are the most environmentally friendly choice for roofing in 2018.

Contact Us For More Info

Learn more about Home Pro Roofing and their vast line of custom roofing options installed by professional roofing contractors including: asphalt shingle roofing, shingle roof repair, and new shingle roof installation at http://homeproroofingmi.com/residential-roofing-services-shingle-roofs.php.  To contact one of our roofing contractors call 810.225.9080 today.