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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.