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.

 

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.

 

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.

 

The Most Common Problems in Roofing

Some home DIY ventures such as painting the deck, fixing a broken shutter, or crown molding can be quite enjoyable not mention such DYI projects can also improve the look and function of any home without breaking the bank. However, taking on a time-consuming and rigorous job such as the installation of a new rood often can prove to be very challenging even for an expert in DIY.

The roof is an important structure of your home that protects the rest of the structure along with your family and valuables. While a completed DIY roofing job can bring an immense sense of achievement and gratification, some repairs should be taken more seriously because it wouldn’t come as a surprise if you miss elusive signs of damage that a local roofer would otherwise not.

Consider the following pesky problems a local roofing company can help with:

Lack of Roof Maintenance

Having a local roofer to inspect your home can enable you to catch a problem in time before it turns problematic. Some roof problem can stem from the lack of cleaning backed up gutters or trimming overhanging tree branches that place unwanted pressure on your roof. Healthy trees can add charm and curb appeal, but if left unchecked, they can cause damage to your roof.

Weather Damage

Most commonly from high winds, falling debris, after a storm comes through, or from wear and tear from age can result to the cracking of roof shingles or lead to some of them being torn off completely. Cracks in the roof are often hard to see unless you call a local roofing contractor.

Faulty Installation

Improperly installed shingles will result in sliding shingles are brought on when roofing nails are not properly placed on the nail line, and the shingles are only held in place by the tar strip. Come the warmer months, the tar strips heat up, and the shingle begins to separate.

Inadequate Roof Ventilation

A local roofing company can help alleviate ventilation issues, particularly with asphalt shingle roof systems in order to allow warm air to leave through the top and cool air from the bottom through the ridge cap at the peak of your roof. Lack of proper ventilation can have a serious impact on your energy bills not to mention your roof’s lifespan.

Leaks and Moisture

From either wind, rain, snow, and a build-up of debris can lead to moisture build-up and seepage under the layers of roof, and in order to avert further damage from these leaks that will cause rot and mold, you should have them repaired straight away by your local roofer.

Animal Damage

Raccoons and squirrels may seem adorable until they wreak havoc on your roof and cause significant damage to your home. They can dig holes through your roofing materials, including removing shingles and desecrating the sheathing. Trimming over hanged tree branches, cleaning gutters where birds can build their nest, checking signs of animal damage and keeping the roof well maintained is a job for a professional local roofing company.

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.

Warning Signs That You May Need a New Roof

Your homes roof might not always have one big fail before it needs to be replaced.  Homeowners should not wait until the roof has started to leak, become weak, or start to visually deteriorate.  A roof will naturally reach the end of its life even if homeowners are keeping up on preventative maintenance at some point the roof will begin to show its age.  Delaying roof replacement too long may actually cause bigger issues for homeowners in the long run.  It is important that you look out for the signs that mean you need a new roof. Here we have some of the basic warning signs that are easy to identify.

Dark Roofing Streaks

With the passage of time, the airborne algae will stick to the roof that will cause the production of the dark streaks. The streaks might not harm the life and longevity of the roof but they will surely damage the appearance and will never look good. Apply a mixture of bleach and water in the affected area and wash it with water.

Moss Appearance

The biggest enemy of the roof is moss and if there are signs of fungal growth you will immediately need the roof repair services. Moss will not only damage the roof but in case if it spreads in the house you might have to leave your home. The spores of moss will lead to many health issues.

The Roofs Age

Considering the roof repair, age is a very important factor. A roof can generally last for 20 to 80 years and it depends on the material that you have used. The asphalt shingles will only last 20 years. It is important that you check your previous reports to know the life of your roof.

Roof Leakage

One of the most important factors is leakage. If after the rainfall you notice that the ceiling is getting wet of the roof is leaking from any point you must have a new roof. When homeowners do not replace the old roof on time, leakage will damage the interior of the house as well. You can also pinpoint the areas that are causing the leakage and replace them if you do not have the budget for a new roof.

Failed Roof Inspection

After few years it is important that you get your roof inspected. You will need a new roof if there are following points in the report.

  • Curling or buckling shingles on the roof
  • Bald spots on asphalt shingles
  • Loss of material around pipes and the chimney
  • Granule build up in the gutters
  • Soft spots on the roof that indicate rotting plywood underneath the shingling
Final Work on Roofing

Once you have planned that you want to repair or replace the roof you will get two options. You can do the task of repairing the roof yourself if you have the skills and the tools. However, if the damage has been done and you need the replacement you will have to hire the roofing contractor.

There are many professionals in the market and they will provide you the best possible services. Different services have different rates so select the one that meets your requirements. Make sure that your new roof is strong and sturdy.

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.

 

How to Find a Reputable Roofing Contractor to Perform Shingle Roofing

These days, you can’t just pick the first name you see in the yellow pages or anywhere online. That may work for ordering a pizza but it won’t work when looking to find a professional roofing contractor to install or repair a homes roof.   Homeowners will need to qualify the roofer in question to make sure they are the right person for the job.

It is important that the person you hire to install or repair your shingle roof is a legitimate licensed and insured roofing contractor.  This will help to prevent issues that are common with shingle roofing that is improperly installed such as leaks, flashing failures or other roofing related issues.  Consider the following aspects when it comes to hiring a professional shingle roofing contractor to install the homes new roof or repair issues with an existing shingle roof.

Consider the Following When Hiring a Professional Roofing Contractor

  • The Roofer’s Name: When you are looking into hiring a professional shingle roofing contractor it is important to get the roofer’s full name, contact number, license number, and full company name.  This allows you to know exactly who to get a hold of and how to touch base with them before, during, and after the job is done.
  • Proper Insurance: The roofing contractor that is hired should be properly insured meaning that they have both liability insurance and workers compensation policies intact. Don’t ever take the roofing contractors word on this matter; always ask for proper documentation.  This is not rude; it is part of the roofing contractor’s job to supply proper documentation.
  • Free Consultations and Estimates: Roofing contractors should offer homeowners a free estimate and roofing consultation.  During which they evaluate the current state of the roof and the costs associated with repairing or replacing it.  This estimate and consultation should never cost a homeowner a dime.
  • Experience: A roofing contractor that has been providing shingle roofs for some time are likely to be more knowledgeable than one that is new to the industry.  An experienced roofing contractor is a necessity for the homeowner’s peace of mind.
  • Promptness: Whether it is with providing phone calls in return to yours or showing up to your house on time to bid the job it is important that the contractor shows up on time and does what they tell you they are going to do.
  • Professionalism: Consider how the contractor treats you when talking to you over the phone or in person.  Is the roofing contractor dressed professionally when he meets with homeowners?  Would you invite this person into your home with their current appearance?  Are they dirty or are the pulled together in a professional manner?  If this is a person that does not care about their appearance when representing their business than they are probably not someone that should be working to replace or repair the homes roof.

In conclusion, a home’s roof is an important investment.  The tips above help homeowners to select the right roofer for the job.  Remember to be choosy about who is hired, as it is important to getting a high quality long-lasting asphalt shingle 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.  To contact one of our roofing contractors call 810.225.9080 today.

 

Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring a Roofing Contractor

When it comes to your home and finances there is no such thing as being overprotective and this includes those times when you need to find reliable roofing contractors. Take these simple to steps to protect your home and avoid costly mistakes.

The roofing industry is the number one source of claims for fraud and abuse so never assume that the roofing contractor you are interviewing has a current roofing license. Always ask to see the paperwork so you can be confident they are suitably qualified. Businesses without licenses can and do disappear and if there is a problem with your roof you will be out of pocket for the repair expenses.  Any roofing contractor worth working with will be licensed and insured.

While you are checking the licenses, you should also verify that the contractor is certified to install the material you are using for your roof. For example, in the state of Utah, a roofing company requires a shingle license to install a pitched roof.  This is not the case for all states however it is important that if it is required in your state that your contractor is properly licensed.

Roof repair can be a dangerous business so liability insurance is a must if you want to ensure that accidents caused by the roofing contractor and their staff cannot come back and hurt you financially. Check that the contractor has a current insurance policy as well as what it covers and for how much. It is also a good idea to check the contractors’ workers’ compensation coverage.

Ensure a lien waiver is in place before work starts. Once the work is complete and you have paid the contractor the lien waiver protects you against suppliers requesting payment out of your pocket because the roofing contractor failed to pay them.

Even though it may make you a little uncomfortable to get all the above documents signed, sealed and verified the peace of mind is worth it as it can potentially save you thousands of dollars in the long run.

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.

Roofing Contractors Choose Metal over Asphalt

Roofing contractors usually have two choices when roofing Michigan roofs; Metal or Shingles.  There are numerous other materials on the market but these are the two most widely used and installed.  Many times roofers will choose metal roofing over shingling for both commercial and residential use when cost is not the main factor.

Your homes roof is a significant part of the house it is your homes caption. No matter how beautiful your home is if the roof is worn out and looks tired your home becomes an eye sore.  The roof is the most exposed part of the house.  It is the surface that gets hit with the harsh weather before any other area of the home.   It protects your loved ones and treasured belongings from the rain, snow, sun, sleet, and other harsh weather conditions.

If you notice that your roof has a leak or is damaged it may be time to think about a new roof.  In some cases roof repairs are costly and it makes more sense not to waste money on repairs when a new roof is inevitable.  The roof decking may have rotted, the tar paper worn or the shingling cracked.

With the harsh weather that our roofs see roofing contractors take their time when recommending suitable materials that will be both affordable and durable for your roof.  Most people nowadays live in their homes for more than a few years so they want their roof to be and stay strong.  This is why for many families roofing contractors recommend metal roofing when it is without a doubt that a roof needs to be replaced and not repaired.

Choose Metal Roofing over Asphalt Shingling

  • Longevity

When it comes to weather resistance, metal roofs receive double thumbs up because they can withstand any kind of weather. Although the life span of a roof is about 60 years, it has been said that metal roofs made from copper and Zinc in UK last over a 100 years due to proper care and maintenance.

  • Good For the Environment

Metal roofs can be recycled over and over again. As a matter of fact, these kinds of roofs are made from recyclable content. It keeps the temperature in the house cool by reflecting the heat that comes upon it which makes it one of the most energy efficient roofing materials. You can make money by selling it off.

  1. It is light in weight.

This is one of the lightest weights that can be used as a roofing material. Although there are different types of metal roofing materials with different weights, roofing contractors believe that steel roofing materials can weigh between 100 pounds to 250 pounds per square while aluminum roofing materials can weigh about 50 pounds per square. Asphalt shingles are quite heavy. They can range from about 200 pounds per square to 500 pounds per square for high-quality laminated and textured shingles.

  • Durable

Roofing contractors would pick metal roofs over asphalt shingling any day because metal roofs are stronger during turbulent weather conditions unlike asphalt shingling. There are insurance companies that give a discount price to home buyers with metal roofs. The discount can be as high as 30% in premium if you have a metal roof that is weather resistant.

  • Warranty

The manufacturers of these kinds of roof offer warranties for as long as 50 years which is very unlikely to happen with asphalt shingling.

Although asphalt shingling have their own good purposes, metal roofs are better although they are costlier. Don’t try to cut cost when trying to buy your roof but think about what you need.

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.

 

 

 

Today’s Asphalt Shingles

Have you been researching roofing products?  Are you trying to find out how to get quality shingles without wasting money on a warranty that might not make a difference? Is it quality of the shingling even important? If the roofing is installed correctly does it really make a difference if you pay to the roofing contractor to install ten year shingles over twenty five year ones?

One of the most popular options in roofing is asphalt shingles.  They are popular for a number of reasons including that they are inexpensive, long lasting, fire retardant, and are available in a number of colors and styles.

Some shingling can be purchased with a warranty of thirty years.  This means they are guaranteed to withstand the weather and protect your roof for thirty plus years.  Shingles are no longer only produced in one simple three tab style. Now shingling composition is composed of heavier, thicker granules and produced to replicate slate or wood shingles.  Shingles are now classier than the more traditional predecessor.

Shingle roofing is most often chosen by homeowners because it is less expensive than all other roofing materials to purchase and install.  It is also easily replicated and repaired if damage from inclement weather happens to damage it.   Unlike wood shingles that are thin and rot quickly or metal that is four times the cost.  These benefits, along with the optional dimensional styles allow asphalt shingles to be chosen over other roofing materials more often.

Roofing contractors like working with asphalt shingles not only because of their durability but because the material itself is lightweight and easy to manipulate when working with it.   It is most often chosen by homeowners because of its longevity and stylish design options.  Whatever you choose when looking into a new roof be sure to work with a professional roofing contractor to ensure the best quality roof you can afford.

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.

What to Consider Before You Hire a Roofing Contractor

If you are looking for a roofing contractor, you want to make sure to avoid scams and shoddy work. This can be easier said than done, so how should you go about hiring a roofing contractor? Start by considering the following list of helpful tips:

Referrals – Get local referrals. You want to choose a roofing contractor that is locally owned and operated, one that has an established reputation in your area. When you choose a roofing contractor who is well known in your community, you are less likely to be scammed.  Check Better Business Bureau ratings, and look for manufacturer designations, too!

Insurance – Any roofing contractor you hire should have both worker’s compensation and liability insurance. This is a non negotiable. And they should be able to provide a copy of their insurance so you can verify its validity, which you absolutely should take the time to do. You don’t want to end up financially responsible for the hospital bills of an injured worker, or the property damage a worker caused, either. Bottom line is you want to know you’re covered if anything happens on the job, so give their insurance company a call to put your mind at ease.

Licensing – While most states require licensing for roofing contractors, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t inquire whether or not a company is licensed. It’s another good idea to verify the company is licensed, so make sure to ask for a copy allowing you to double check that it is up to date. And it’s also not a bad idea to research the specific licensing requirements for a roofing contractor in your area.

Communication – You want to hire a roofing contractor that answers your calls, provides you with documentation that you ask for, follows up with you, addresses your concerns, and answers your questions. Communication is paramount to every business, and you shouldn’t hire any roofing contractor incapable of effective communication.

Material options – Your roofing contractor should offer you multiple options, and they should offer more than just asphalt shingling packages. You want a company that will work with you to determine which roofing solution works best for your needs and budget.

Estimates – Make sure your roofing contractor gives you an exact price upfront, one that the company puts in writing.

Warranties – Your roofing contractor should offer an extensive warranty. Don’t settle for anything below average.

Price – You want to get the best roofing contractor for your money, and who doesn’t love a deal? But don’t let price be the only thing you take into consideration because in the end, you might actually pay more if you have to have shoddy work fixed by another roofing contractor later on.

This list is just a starting place, so don’t be afraid to ask a lot of questions before you select a roofing contractor. It can be difficult to find someone committed to professionalism, safety, and quality workmanship, but if you want to protect your home and your wallet, make sure the roofing contractor you hire crosses off all of your checkpoints.

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.