Home Pro Roofing

Friday, October 30, 2015

It May Be Time To Replace Your Metal Roof

How do homeowners know it is finally time to replace their metal roofs? Metal roofing is usually chosen over asphalt because of its longevity. Many times the homeowners that initially install the metal roof are not the owners when it comes time to replace it. It is necessary to be able to access the condition of the roof in order to decide if it is time for the roof to be replaced. Below are some of the things to look for before you call in a roofing contractor to install a new roof.

Severe Rust

Metal roofing comes coated with a rust proof finish. This however does not guarantee or prevent rust from forming. Overtime the coating can degrade which will result in the formation of rust on the metal roof. Metal roofing with excessive rust can detract from the aesthetics of an overall well-kept home. If homeowners begin to see rust forming on their metal roof they should address the areas with additional rust treatments. Eventually it may become cheaper to replace the roof rather than continually treating the rusting areas.

Fragile Roof Structure

Overall metal roofing has a longer lifespan over asphalt shingles. This does not mean that the roof will not experience a gradual deterioration. This happens because overtime the roof is exposed to a variety of weather conditions. Severe weather leads to excessive rust which then leads to a weakening in the roof structure. When this occurs the only option is to replace the entire roof. If you see holes starting to form in the metal the roof structure will start to weaken at a faster pace. Be prepared to replace the roof within the year if not sooner to avoid the expense of structural roof replacement as well.

Leaks

Unlike asphalt shingles metal roofing is held onto the roofs structure using bolts and screw to fasten it together. Overtime the bolts and screws will loosen and break away. This can cause a leak to occur which in turn can lead to water damage. Water damage is unattractive and costly if left untreated. It is more economical to replace the metal roof than repair constant water damage. If the leaks are caught early it is possible to repair the hardware that has loosened. The sooner the leak is discovered the less likely it is to cause long lasting water damage to the structure of the roof overall.

Home Pro Roofing contractors offer a variety of roofing services throughout Brighton, East Lansing, Ann Arbor, Fenton and Commerce Township, including installation of shingle roofs, metal roofing and roof repairs. You will find them at http://www.homeproroofingmi.com today.

Thursday, September 24, 2015

The Advantages Metal Roofing Offers Over Other Roofing Material Options

Although there are a variety of advantages to each material used in roofing, metal roofing wins out over all the other options in regards to durability. Homeowners may pay more for the materials and labor used in metal roofing over other materials such as shingles, however the advantage being that you will not have to replace your homes roof for an extended period of time over others. Metal roofs can last for upwards of fifty years while asphalt shingles have a lifespan of about twenty years. This can save you money to use on other home improvement projects.

There are many designs, styles and colors in metal roofing to choose from when looking into replacing your homes roof. You will want something that compliments the exterior of your home as well as the rest of the neighborhood. Your home should not be the eyesore within the neighborhood. If it stands out from the other homes it is important it does so for the right reasons. With metal roofing you can choose from a variety of styles, designs and colors that will compliment your home and neighborhood.

Metal roofing is also a more eco-friendly option to roofing over asphalt. Each year there are twenty billion pounds of asphalt shingles discarded into landfills each and every year. This is an extreme situation to place on our environment. By installing a metal roof on your home you are choosing a material that is made up of sixty percent recycled materials. Another benefit is that metal roofing can be installed right over shingles thus less waste is being contributed to landfills each year.

Metal roofing also maintains its value over the long term. Other roofing materials can last twenty to twenty five years. With metal roofing you will not have to replace the roof for at least fifty years. In perspective, metal roofing continues to hold its value over a longer period of time over asphalt shingles roofs.

Metal roofs also help to save money on homeowners insurance. Metal roofs are less of a risk for insurance companies because they are fire-resistant and do not deteriorate over time like other roofing materials do. Some insurance companies offer a discount of up to thirty five percent on homeowner’s insurance policies for having a metal roof.

Having a metal roof installed is a large expense although it comes with many added benefits. When choosing to have a metal roof installed on your home interview several roofing contractors. Work with a roofing contractor that specializes in metal roof installation for the best results.

The Importance Of Your Homes Roof

Owning your own home comes with a great sense of responsibility and pride. Homeownership is something that everyone dreams of. Owning your home allows you the freedom to create a space that is unique to your style. It is a place where you can raise your family, create memories and live for many years to come. With homeownership comes home maintenance both interior and exterior. In order for homeowners to keep their homes intact they need to keep up on not only the decorative measures but also the functional ones as well.

The plumbing needs to work, the electricity must function and the structure must be strong. One such feature that may not appear to be of importance if your homes roof. In reality your homes roof is the protective barrier that safeguards the structure of your home. Your roof allows your homes structure to withstand the affects of harsh and unpredictable weather conditions. Without a solid roof your homes structure and foundation is at risk.

The roof is the first location on your home that sustains damage from Mother Nature. Your home is at a disadvantage when it comes to the many ways in which it can sustain damage. Your roof takes a beating in every season; from rain to snow, from blazing heat to icy hail your roof has to keep on bearing the stress in order for you to live comfortably and stress free.

A homes roof can be designed from a variety of materials including metal, asphalt, tile, slate and more. Different roofing materials work better in different climates. For instant clay tiles work well in hotter temperatures where as asphalt shingles and metal roofing tend to be more resilient in climates that vary from super cold to incredibly hot and humid.

Metal roofing is a popular option that many homeowners choose because of its overwhelming value. Metal roofing can last a lifetime where as asphalt lasts only between fifteen and twenty years.

Roofs that are metal are non-combustible and can actually help prevent a fire if struck by lightning. The lightning will dissipate upon impact. There is a myth that lightning is attracted to metal roofs however this is false. Another myth is that metal roofs rust. This is actually false as well. Metal roofs are bonded with a protective layer, similar to zinc which works to keep your roof from rusting.

The cost of hiring a roofing contractor to install metal roofing is comparable to that of installing an asphalt roof when you consider the overall lifespan of the roof. This is an added benefit especially given the time impact of installing a new roof. Replacing your roof one time over the lifespan of your home over multiple times is a great advantage of metal over asphalt.

Some more advantages of metal roofing are the decreased air conditioning costs during the hot, humid summer months. There are also a variety of styles and colors to choose from when looking into purchasing a metal roof. There is sure to be a color and design that will add a unique look to any home that is complimentary to not only your home but the entire neighborhood. As with many other environmentally friendly home improvements metal roofing gives you a government tax credit. Be sure that your roofing contractor installs your metal roof with Energy Star approved materials.

Having a metal roof installed on your home is just one way in which homeowners can show the pride they have in their homes.

Wednesday, August 26, 2015

Taking Care Of Your Home’s Roof

Homeownership is one of the largest responsibilities that a person can take on. Homes are one of the single most expensive purchases most people make in their lifetime. Owning a home is largely rewarding especially when actions are taken to properly maintain it. This doesn’t mean that it is without its hassles though. Unexpected occurrences have a way of turning into unforeseen repairs and surprise expenses. One area often overlooked is your homes roof. This is an expense that you want to be prepared for as a new roof is a financial commitment in itself.

Your homes roof is an essential element of your home. A lot goes into building your homes roof therefore a lot must go into maintain it. There are many different ways to go about this. One way is to hire a professional roofing contractor once a year. They will come out, get on the roof and physically inspect and repair any faulty areas within the roof and its structure. Another way is to come up with a safe maintenance plan that you yourself can use to inspect the roof at the beginning of the spring and fall seasons. Maintaining and protecting your homes roof from the elements is fundamental to ensure the safety and comfort of your family.

The climate throughout the North is often unpredictable no matter what season we are in. We can always expect inclement weather which will unfortunately impact your home, especially the roof. You must maintain and prepare your roof for everything that is possible from high winds, tornadoes, hail, ice, wet snow and more. The weather is especially uncertain throughout the summer and winter; take time in the spring and fall to ensure gutters are clear, shingle replaced, tar and caulk applied and repairs to the structure are made.

If you are currently unsure about the condition of your homes roof it is best to hire a professional roofing contractor to inspect it. While they are there have them go over what they are checking for in order to create a checklist for yourself. Have the roofer give you an estimate on labor costs to repair the roof so that you can start stashing cash away now. If upon inspection they find that the roof is too far gone to be repaired and needs to be replaced you can have them prepare a quote on the spot. This will give you a ball park figure to work with and something to compare other quotes too.

Metal Roofing Advantages

When it comes to any home improvement project there are many decisions that need to be made. One decision that often plagues homeowners is with choosing materials. This is true whether you are remodeling your bathroom or replacing your homes roof. The materials you choose can make the difference between the success or failure of your home improvement. Using quality materials and experienced contractors, especially in roofing, will determine the lifespan of your renovation.

A perfect example of this is happens to be when choosing between metal or asphalt when roofing. A metal roof, installed by an experienced roofing contractor, can increase the lifespan of your homes roof from fifteen years to forty plus years. Consider the following advantages of metal roofing when replacing your homes roof.

Durability: Metal roofing has one major advantage over other roofing materials. Metal is more durable than any other material that can be used to replace your homes roof. The lifespan of a metal roof is upwards of forty years while asphalt roofs may only last about fifteen years.

Variety: When replacing your homes roof it is important to match the aesthetics of your home and neighborhood. You want your roof to stand out from other homes in the area without being a neighborhood eyesore. Metal roofing comes in a variety of styles and colors to compliment your home’s exterior.

Eco-Friendly: Metal roofing is made up of nearly sixty percent recycled materials. Approximately twenty billion pounds of asphalt shingling is dumped into landfills each year. This type of waste is not beneficial to the environment. If you choose metal over asphalt it is important to note that instead of removing the asphalt shingles the metal roof can be installed directly on top of them. You will not be contributing to the waste that is filling up the limited space available in landfills.

Value: Metal roofing saves money over asphalt in that it has an increased lifespan, discounts on homeowner’s insurance and decreased utility bills thus increasing the overall value of metal roofing. Metal roofing is fire resistant and does not deteriorate over time. This allows insurance companies to offer policies at up to a thirty five percent discount. Utilities bills are lower yearly as well because metal roofing is efficient in keeping heat in when it is cold outside or cool air in when it is hot. Metal roofing improves the overall value by adding equity to the sale price when you go to sell your home.

Wednesday, July 29, 2015

Getting The Roof You Want At A Budget You Can Afford

How do homeowners go about getting the roof they want within their set budget? It can be done however takes a bit of diligence. It takes defining alternatives, knowing exactly what you need and outline a definitive budget to stay within during the roofing project. Below you will find steps to refine your roofing project.

Assess your roofing needs. Do you need to install a whole new roof or can you get by with repairs to the existing roof? Homeowners may choose to just repair a leaky roof over replacing it because of the lower cost and smaller time constraint. However to make the decision between repair and replacement there are a list of factors to consider. It may be a better option to replace a leaking roof depending on the age of the existing roofing structure and materials as well as its history. Do you believe the roof will need ongoing repairs? If this is the case, or with older roofs it may end up being that a full roof replacement is the most cost effective strategy. Sometimes repairing a roof can be tricky especially when trying to locate matching materials.

Learn about the style of your roof as well as its structure and design to determine the selection of roofing materials you can choose from. Depending on the weight baring capability and structure under the existing roof limits may apply to the materials you can choose from. Tile and slate require additional support due to their weight where as lighter materials like metal and asphalt work well on most roof structures without additional structural support. Consider the number of slopes, gables, stories and roofing angels that your roofing contractor will have to navigate. These variables add additional fees into the labor cost over large, single story roofs without a steep pitch or varied angles to negotiate while installing your new roof.

Look into the cost of both materials and labor. The material you choose to have installed on your new roof will help in determining the costs involved. The cost of both material and labor increase when you choose more specialized materials such as metal, tile, slate or wood over asphalt shingles. Each material requires special installation that not every roofing contractor as experience in. In order to ensure your roof is aesthetically please hire a roofing contractor that specializes in the material you have chosen. This will add to the labor costs but is essential to ensuring the longevity and curb appeal of your new roof.

It is your home and all home improvements should be done to your specifications. You as the homeowner are the one that will be living with the choices made for years to come. Take your time when choosing a material and contractor for your new roof.

Five Common Roofing Materials

Your homes foundation, without a doubt, is the most important aspect in creating a stable, lasting home. The second being your roof as it is needed for stability as well as protection, sheltering you and your belongings from the elements. Careful consideration is needed when choosing a roofing material for your home. Take into consideration the style of the home as well as the local climate when deciding what material you will use to cover your homes roof.

There are five basic styles of roofing, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. Asphalt, shingles, wood, slate and tile shingles being the most commonly used materials in roofing.

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are the most commonly used especially in climates with a variety of weather conditions. They are not only durable but also easy to install and less expensive than most roofing materials. Asphalt shingles are good for a variety of roof pitches however should not be used with flat roofs. There are two types of asphalt shingles including fiberglass and organic. Fiberglass shingles are lighter, more resistant to fire and better in warm climates than organic shingles. Organic shingles are good in a variety of weather and remain flexible under freezing conditions making them a better choice for colder climates.

Metal Shingles

Metal roofing is a popular option as it offers both durability and attractiveness. One drawback is the expense. Metal roofing is about one third more expensive then asphalt. They are by far the lightest material that can be used in roofing including aluminum, steel, and copper. One disadvantage is that metal can be dented in hail storms although new finishes eliminate rust and fading. If you choose copper it is important to know it can last for up to a hundred years however is higher priced than other metal roofing.

Wood Shingles

The most common wooden shingles is made from cedar although pine and spruce can be used as well. Wood is a less durable option than other roofing materials. The normal life span of a cedar roof is about thirty years. The cost of the materials are often less than others however the labor expense outweighs that of asphalt, metal, slate and tile.

Slate Shingles

Slate is considered to have the most longevity out of any other roofing material. Slate lasts upwards of a hundred years. It also comes in a variety of colors and designs which make is a popular choice. To get this curb appeal to adjourn your homes prepare to shell out some major money. Slate can cost more than four times the average cost of other roofing materials.

Tile Shingles

Tile shingles are available in concrete, runner and clay. Depending on the material chosen will depend on the cost you should expect to pay. One major disadvantage of tile roofing is the weight of the tiles. This alone may make this option obsolete for your home. Tile does offer durability and lasts about fifty years.

Whatever type of roof you select it won’t last to its potential without being installed by an experienced roofing contractor. Weigh the advantages and disadvantages with each roofing material against one another while considering local experienced roofing contractors that can install a new roof with the material of choice.