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Author: Ace Construction & Remodeling

To Repair or Replace Roof – The Big Question

The number of years a roof may last depends on material and weather and can vary greatly as conditions change. So, if you’re wondering: “repair or replace roof?” then there are several things to consider.

Weather can impact the lifetime of a roof causing it to age faster than you would hope for. And that can be regular seasonal weather each year. Of course, extreme weather and/or accidents tend to cause immediate damage. At that point you will find yourself asking the big question: “Is it better to repair or replace my roof.”

As far as material goes, asphalt shingle roofs tend to last 20 to 30 years. Fiber cement and wood tiles may last a little longer. Metal roofing, which there are many types to choose from, slate, clay tiles, etc. will typically last 50 plus years – some possibly 75-100 years.

Getting near the end of the roof lifecycle will pretty much clue you in that you need to replace your roof. Or at least you will need to in the near future. So, it’s good to be saving now for that new roof. When you see a problem, you still may wrestle with the repair or replace roof question.

Repair or Replace Roof – It’s like an Old Car

In some respects, the decision is similar to replacing a car. Does it have more life, but at what cost? Will you have many repairs coming, and it would be better to go ahead and replace it at that point? You basically ask the same questions.

The old “nickel and dime” problem is what we are addressing here. If the repairs on your roof are starting to significantly add up, and your roof might not have that much life remaining, then your answer is likely that it is time to replace your roof rather than repair.

Usually when something is failing with a car it is obvious. You tend to know about it because a warning light will come on, or it will make strange noises. In some cases, you may notice the handling has changed, and you know something is not right.

However, with a roof on your house there are no warning lights. And unless water is running down to the interior of your home it can be easy to miss problems under the surface.

Repair My Roof Considerations

When you are trying to come to a decision of repair or replace roof, the following items may help. Ask yourself “what will it take to repair my roof?” And then weigh that with the benefits of each option, to repair or replace a roof.

If you detect leaks and water damage it doesn’t mean that roof replacement is automatic. It really comes down to the extent of water damage and roof leaks. How much wood will need to be replaced needs to be answered also, not just the shingles. This is where it is a good idea to call a professional roofing company like Ace Construction & Remodeling.

Your roofing contractor should also clue you into the aesthetics of a roof if it applies in your case. Then when you have determined the extent of roof damage and structural issues, if any, you will take into consideration the age of the roof. How much life of a roof is remaining will help you determine how much you are willing to pay for roof repair instead of replacing a roof.

It’s possible that you don’t know the age of your roof. Perhaps you purchased a house from someone who didn’t know themselves. In that case here are some clues to let you know your roof is getting closer to the end of its life. In which case you will want to start planning for a roof replacement project.

  • Shingles curling or buckling (often starts on the corners)
  • Shingles are bald
  • Shingles are missing
  • Roof sagging
  • Moss covering your roof (depending on shade, trees, and weather conditions)
  • Blistering shingles
  • Granules in the gutter (this is usually accompanied by other problems)

As we mentioned earlier the type of material can affect the longevity of your roof. And it’s not just a consideration as to when the roof is near the end. But the type of material might impact your repair or replace roof decision. Especially if it is an expensive material. It may cause you to wait as long as possible for replacement.

On the other hand, if the aesthetic impact of your roof and house makes a big difference in the appearance, curb appeal and value of your home, you may find yourself choosing to replace your roof sooner than expected.

But often the roof replacement cost is one of the most influential factors for answering the big question. So, you may need to do some research, and a little math to determine your best choice. Once again, a reputable local roofing company can help you weigh your options.

To Repair or Replace Roof: What Owens Corning Says

Owens Corning is one of the most well-known roofing material manufacturers. They suggest to repair when possible and provide the following list to help you. And of course, when you have too many of these repairs Owens Corning provides great options for roof replacement. Ace Construction & Remodeling is a preferred provider for Owens Corning roofing.

  • Replace missing shingles if possible
  • Replace damaged shingles if possible
  • Repair loose flashing and vent seals when needed

Look for other signs that shingles are failing:

  • Look for water leaks and damage
  • Look for large bald spots (usually a sign you need roof replacement)

While Owens Corning is providing information to help you, in the end they recommend that you hire a professional. Being able to identify issues is a start but having the knowledge and experience to know how serious a problem is only comes with a professional roofing company like Ace Remodeling & Construction. Now, here are a few more tips that might be relevant. And by the end of this you can answer the big “to repair or replace roof” question.

When to get a Roof Repair

  • When you find minor damage – for the most part if it is something confined to a small area it can likely be repaired.
  • If you have moderate damage – again, it may be a judgement call, so reach out to Ace Construction & Remodeling.
  • If your budget is tight – if this is the case and you are needing more and more repairs, you better start saving in a hurry for when you must replace the roof.
  • If your roof is not very old, it is best to protect that investment with a roof repair instead of replacing the roof.

And here are some “repair my roof” benefits over replacing a roof.

  • Roof repairs maintain an otherwise good roof.
  • Roof repairs are usually easy to arrange on short notice because it’s not as big of a project as an entire roof replacement.
  • Roof repairs generally save you money.

When to “bite the bullet” and Replace Roof

  • Saving money in the long run – remember the car example? Repeated repairs can end up costing you more than a new replacement roof.
  • The age is already there – so face up to it and get it done!
  • Occasionally building codes change and your roof needs an upgrade anyway.
  • Damage is overwhelming, and roof repair would only be a temporary fix, a band aid so to speak. Ask yourself, does it make sense to repair my roof, only to replace it just a couple weeks later?
  • Significant storm damage – this type of damage often eliminates the possibility of a repair and you might be left with no choice but to replace the roof. Note: Check with your homeowners’ insurance as you may have replace roof coverage.

And here are some of the benefits to replace a roof instead of repair it.

  • Aesthetics and curb appeal – can spruce up the look of your entire house exterior.
  • Up to date with building codes – if this is an issue.
  • Best time to fix multiple roof components (decking, joists, fascia, gutters, etc.).
  • Energy efficiency increased – sometimes this is an added benefit.
  • Peace of mind.

Hire a Professional

As with most Big decisions, having a local professional roofing contractor you can trust is the best position to be in. Ace Construction & Remodeling is professional and trusted and can help you answer the big question for your home. Repair or replace roof issues is where Ace Construction & Remodeling will come to the rescue!

Remodelers, Handyman, and Contractors: What’s What!

What is a remodeler? If you Google the term “remodelers” that is the first question that usually pops up. And it usually describes someone that takes on a variety of tasks to transform a space. Kind of generic wouldn’t you say?

And that’s our concern. Are remodelers and a handyman the same thing? And what about contractors? Or do they all refer to the same kind of service? Our feeling is that people have specific things in mind when they use these terms.

What Can Remodelers Do?

When you want to call a remodeler do you expect that they can do anything? Or do they specialize in something in particular and that is your expectation. After all, can any one person know everything there is to know about construction and remodeling? Probably not, but then again, general contractors are very knowledgeable in a variety of areas even if their own special skills are geared toward one craft.

And even if they are very skilled in one area, does that mean they are the best at everything? Again, not likely. Some will specialize in an area such as kitchens or bathroom remodeling and this makes sense.

A roofing company doesn’t often use the term remodelers to label themselves. Nonetheless, Ace Construction and Remodeling is the leading roofing contractor in East-Central Indiana.

Contractors vs Remodelers

But then, is there a difference between a contractor and remodelers? This might really depend on who you are asking. So ask yourself this question. Is a remodeler the same thing as professional contractors? We feel like there is a difference, even if they use the same term like remodeling.

Isn’t it true that anyone can call themselves a remodeler? If someone regularly does renovation projects on their own home they can say they are a remodeler? Right? Yes, of course they can. But that doesn’t make them a professional contractor. And so there really is a difference. The contractors just by the name alone imply professional and hopefully licensed workers.**

** Note: It may be interesting to you that when the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) creates the survey Remodeling Marketing Index (RMI) they use the term remodelers for respondents who were either owner, president or CEO of their companies.

Remodelers vs Handyman

On the other hand, consider if remodelers are different than hiring a handyman. Again, we believe there is a difference. When someone uses the term handyman for the service you need it is important to ask lots of questions. Some handyman workers are “self-proclaimed” and just looking to get started in their own business. Often others are former employees of contractors and remodeling companies. Usually they have a particular skill set and have left the company to work for themselves. The challenge is they can also be very limited in their skill set and take on more than they can handle.

In fact, often a sign of a handyman is they work by themselves or perhaps with a side hand helper. This may be true of remodelers also, so you will want to ask about their background, experience, licensure, and insurance.

A Company vs Individual Remodelers

And one of the most important points you may not have caught in the last section is the individual working for themselves. We are not against individuals working as remodelers, we are just making the point of buyer beware. Ask questions so that you are assured you are getting what you hoped for.

Consider the differences. It would be very rare to find an individual who can have the expertise of multiple areas and that of say, five different contractors. You might call an individual to your house to repair some rotted wood at your foundation. Will they have the skills and training and they eye to know and see a bigger problem? What if there are cracks in your foundation or slab. Will the individual know enough to guide you to the proper steps? We say, not as likely as if you have a team on your side like Ace Construction and Remodeling.

Even companies are considered remodelers. And so the terminology is not always clear. So we think it’s best to ask questions about their team and their specialties. You should also realize that when a company is hiring it’s contractors they actually are trying to cover a variety of skills and specialties. And that is a big advantage for you as a consumer.

Remodelers that “Do it All”

Have you ever heard someone say “we do it all.” It can be a turn off when someone says that because it sounds like they’re bragging or over confident. But what’s the chances that an individual really can do it all? With QUALITY and EXPERTISE? We will let you answer that one yourself. And now compare that to a whole team of individual remodelers – a remodeling company. So when a company says “we do it all” we are more likely to trust that then when a handyman says so.

So when you start looking for remodelers, handymen, or contractors, you will have better success with certain terms and conditions. First, we would avoid the term handyman. The term contractors probably will get you better results. But if you use remodelers in your search, vetting your responses is important and we suggest you go with the advantage of a company. 

Looking into Remodelers

By now you get the idea. Sometimes the names are used interchangeably, but there is a definite difference in performance and services offered. So here are a few things to consider.

First, are they certified? Do they hold certifications for their specialty. It would be difficult for individual remodelers to hold certifications in many different areas. Whereas a remodeling company has many individuals that can each be certified in their different areas. Now you may consider certifications as a bonus, because not all trades have accessible options, and they are usually not required by states.

Second, you want to find out if they are licensed. This will almost be an automatic for everyone you encounter. But if they aren’t you are better off moving on to the next company.

Next you want to ask about insurance. It is important that remodelers be insured to protect you! That’s right. What if someone is injured on the job? You should be protected because they have liability insurance to cover the claims.

And what about guarantees? Some remodelers may have insurance to cover their mistakes, but this would be expensive. Individual remodelers may not have this and we heard of these types just walking away from jobs leaving a mess. A remodeling company on the other hand usually has the resources to guarantee and make sure the job is done right.

When looking for remodelers be sure you know what you are getting. A handyman might be good for yard work, or a small project, but when you take on big projects that usually require permits, it’s best to go with professional contractors like Ace Construction and Remodeling. And if you just favor the term remodelers, then go with professional remodelers – or we could say professional remodeling contractors.

Metal Roofing vs Shingles

When people think of roofing material, do they think of Metal Roofing? Usually, the first thing that comes to mind is asphalt shingles. While asphalt shingles have long been the most common residential roofing system in recent years, metal roofing has started to gain popularity. There are many homes in Anderson, Muncie, Noblesville and Fishers that you’ll find with metal roofs these days. We know, because we have been installing them for many of our customers in East Central Indiana and the surrounding communities!

So which is the better for your home – a metal vs shingles roof? If you ask most roofers, they might automatically suggest asphalt shingles simply because that’s what they have experience with. However, metal roofing has a lot to offer so you shouldn’t automatically dismiss it just because some people can’t install it. Ace Construction, East Central Indiana contractors, can do this skillfully.

If you really want to know which roofing system is right for you, keep reading. We’ve put together a quick guide comparing metal roofing vs shingles. By the time you finish this article you’ll be more informed in the decision making for your home.

Comparison: Metal vs Shingles Roof

There are several differences to be found between traditional asphalt shingles and metal roofing. Here are just a few of the biggest ones:

  • Durability: When installed and maintained correctly, East Central Indiana roofs made from asphalt shingles can be pretty tough. In fact, most asphalt roofs carry warranties for up to 20 years or more. While that sounds impressive, metal roofing has the upper hand when it comes to longevity. If you want to know how long a metal roof will last, multiply the lifetime of an asphalt roof by three.Yep, that’s right – metal roofing will last three times longer than your average asphalt shingle roof. If you stay in the same home for sixty years, you can either have three asphalt shingles roofs installed versus one metal roof. Pretty shocking, huh? But the comparisons are not yet done. Next, we come to…
  • Cost: If you want a roof that lasts for 60 years, you’re going to have to pay for it. Metal roofing does cost quite a bit more upfront compared to an asphalt shingle roof. To have metal roofing installed on your home, you could be paying anywhere from $4.50 to $9.00 a square foot, depending on the type of metal you choose. Compare that to asphalt shingles, which comes in at $2.50 to $4.50 per square foot of roofing space.It’s clear that asphalt roofing has the advantage when it comes to metal roof vs shingles price, but when you consider the fact that you’ll need to install three of these roofs during your lifetime, it levels the playing field a bit. Looks like we might need a tie-breaker. For that, we’ll check in on…
  • Energy Efficiency: This one is a tough one. Both asphalt shingles and metal roofing do very well in the winter, keeping your home warm, just as they should. But when summer time rolls around in East Central Indiana and your family is trying to stay cool, it’s a metal roof you’ll need.Metal roofing does an excellent job of keeping the sun’s rays at bay. The reflective surface of metal reduces the amount of heat that gets transferred to your home, which can lower your energy bills by a whopping 40% in the summer. Asphalt shingles just can’t compete with that. Asphalt roofs are notorious for allowing heat absorption into the home during warmer months. So when it comes to energy-efficiency and a metal vs shingles roof, metal is the winner.

How to Choose Between Metal Roofing vs Shingles

So which is better a metal roof or shingles? While metal roofing does have a bit of an advantage over asphalt shingles, it really comes down to a matter of personal preference. If you want to have one roof that lasts for a lifetime while reducing your energy costs and you don’t mind paying a large sum up front, then metal roofing sounds like a good fit.

But asphalt shingles have been a popular option for years because they, too, do the job they’re designed for – protecting your home, family and belongings from the elements. Yes, you’ll be spending more money on your air conditioning bill but that might be a sacrifice you’re willing to make.

Whichever option you choose, you will now understand each advantage.  Asphalt and metal roofing are both available in a variety of styles and colors to match the unique character of your home. Both types of roofing will protect your home and look good while doing it.

If you’d like to explore your roofing options in more detail, call the knowledgeable professionals at Ace Construction & Remodeling at 877-644-3030. We have ample experience working with a variety of roofing materials including metal roofing, asphalt shingles and flat roofing systems. We hope to talk with you soon!

6 Red Flags To Avoid When Choosing Local Roofing Companies

Of all decisions a homeowner must make, selecting a local roofing contractor is definitely an important one. But as big a decision as this is, you needn’t fret. When choosing among local roofing companies, there are certain warning signs to watch out for. You’ll want to avoid shaking hands on a partnership that may not be a good fit. By learning how to spot these red flags, you’ll not only hone your options to the most qualified companies, but you’ll also be prepared to choose the best fit for you.

6 Red Flags in Local Roofing Contractors You Should Avoid:

While we recommend hiring a roofing contractor for most repairs, catching issues while they’re minimal could spare you the need, and save you money. For the DIYers, here are some fundamental roof leak repair tips to help you nip a leaky roof in the bud. 

1. They’re a new company. All companies need to start somewhere – but when delegating the maintenance of your roof, it’s best to table those lacking longevity and experience. More established local roofing companies are more likely to have earned qualifications and licensures (more on that later), established trust with their clients, and as a result, racked up glowing reviews and referrals. Speaking of which…

2. They lack local referrals. Think of how much weight a recommendation carries, especially from a friend or neighbor. Referrals are both informative and reassuring. Both knowing a former client and trusting their honest feedback makes quite a difference. While this makes no guarantees for your own experience, it does give the homeowner further peace of mind when choosing their local roofing contractors.

3. They’re not fully licensed…or insured. This is a red flag that, if something were to go wrong during a roofing project, could come back to haunt you in the worst way. So in a way, you could consider this to be the most important issue to check into. Most states require local roofing contractors to be licensed to work in that state, but it depends on where you live. You should feel perfectly comfortable asking roofing contractors whether they’re insured, at minimum, for workman’s compensation and general liability. 

Finally, caulks and sealants do come in different colors. Depending on how visible your roof leak repair will be, look for colors that closely match that of your roof’s.

4. They don’t rank high in the Better Business Bureau…or aren’t ranked at all. This could be due to either not having been in business long enough (see #1) to earn a ranking, or a poor string of evaluations have them ranked lower. Groups like the BBB are qualified sources to check a company’s certs and licensures; use them as a resource when verifying your options. Reputable local roofing companies are likely to have positive reviews on the BBB site.

5. They aren’t local. Make sure you confirm their physical address; beware if they provide a P.O. box. Some roofing contractors claim to be local but travel to wherever the demand is (think hurricane damage in Florida, or hailstorm season in Texas.) If something happens to your roof that requires immediate attention, but they’re preoccupied with a non-local job elsewhere, where does that leave you, and your roof? Stick with local roofing companies that can provide a physical address that’s nearby.

6. They’re unprofessional. This primarily pertains to safety. Wearing safety gear, such as soft soled boots, and harnesses, and possibly helmets depending on the work involved, should be the absolute minimum. Ask if they use either ladder stabilizers or standoffs, protective devices that prop up a ladder, so it doesn’t lean directly on a roof’s gutters. If the answer is no, ask how they plan to protect your gutters.

If your local roofing contractors do not appear to prioritize safety precautions, this should be a dealbreaker. Moreover, if customer service, clear communication, and integrity are also lacking, keep looking. In fact, even if you don’t know what to look for in terms of safety equipment, pay attention to their professionalism in terms of how they relate to you and others.

Selecting Local Roofing Companies Takes Time

When selecting local roofing companies, do your homework and stay patient. Commit that extra time and effort, and you’ll be rewarded with the best results for future roofing projects.

At Ace Construction, we know what quality roof work looks like. We have more than 20 years’ experience, we are licensed professionals, our past customers are regularly referring new customers to us, and we have excellent customer reviews on Google and an “A+” rating on BBB as client satisfaction is a priority for us. And we are so reliable that we regularly get repeat business from the same customers!

Ace Construction & Remodeling provides roofing and remodeling services to Delaware County, IN (2700 Wheeling Ave #7, Muncie, IN 47303) and Madison County, IN (1930 Indiana Ave., Anderson, IN 46012) and surrounding areas.

Of the local roofing companies in our area, we are the best and ready to help you with professional solutions to all your roofing need.

Roof Leak Repair: Tips 101

A leaky roof may seem like a minor annoyance – but if left unaddressed, it could turn into a much bigger problem later. When conducting a roof leak repair properly, however, minor issues can be kept from worsening roof damage – and more expensive repairs.

Warning: These tips refer to very minor leaks only and do not replace a professional roofers advice. Also, working on a roof can be dangerous. For your safety we do not recommend this and encourage you to hire licensed and trained professionals like Ace Construction & Remodeling roofing experts.

Roof Leak Repair You Must Know

While we recommend hiring a roofing contractor for most repairs, catching issues while they’re minimal could spare you the need, and save you money. For the DIYers, here are some fundamental roof leak repair tips to help you nip a leaky roof in the bud. 

  • Know the clues. Water stains are a telltale sign of a leak; they can be in the ceiling or running down the wall. To spot water stains, look for that unmistakable bled-through appearance. If it’s above your attic, check for mold or rotting wood. Inspect your roof plumbing for torn rubber around it. Your shingles may also betray holes; even tiny ones can create a roof leak.
  • Know your roof. Material, age, and installation quality are important factors to examine. Do your research. If your roof is wooden, for instance, a latex caulk would be an appropriate sealing mechanism. However, if you have a metal roof, you should opt for a butyl-rubber caulk. Of course, if it is old and significantly worn, you may need to replace your roof altogether.
  • Know your sealant substances. There are caulks, and there are sealants: the biggest difference is elasticity. Generally, a caulk is any waterproof material that fills and re-bond gaps between building materials. It’s more rigid than sealants when dry. Sealants perform better in spaces prone to expansion and contraction. Consider how much stress your space typically endures, then determine which material is most suitable for you.  Note that using a caulk or sealant is only effective for very minor repairs, such as keeping out small leaks, pests, and drafts. Using either when a leaky roof warrants more extensive repairs could give the homeowner a false sense of security. Make sure to inspect the roof as thoroughly as possible before applying any materials.  Finally, caulks and sealants do come in different colors. Depending on how visible your roof leak repair will be, look for colors that closely match that of your roof’s.
  • Know your tools. With roof repairs, you’ll want to do the job right the first time
  • Know the safety precautions. Roof work is dangerous and falls are always a risk. Be vigilant, wear a helmet and soft boots with rubber soles, and consider using a harness for extra security. Prepare your household members for the upcoming construction project, and advise them to avoid the areas where you’ll be working. Enlist the help of a friend or family member to watch out for you.

DIY Repair Roof Leak Final Thoughts

While time-consuming with some risk involved, handling your own roof leak repair could be rewarding and cost effective for those willing to learn. But before getting started, you may still consider hiring a certified roof inspector to at least spot signs of damage that could otherwise be overlooked. Be prepared if they advise more involved repairs that exceed your own abilities. 

Whatever you decide, the homeowner who plans ahead, avoids shortcuts, and exercises safety precautions will be happier in the long run. 

At Ace Construction, we know what quality roof work looks like. Our licensed professionals are here to help. To request a quote, click here.

Rain, Sleet or Snow: Weather-Proofing Your Roof

A functioning roof installed by expert roofing is one of those quiet reassurances that we rely on every day – rarely do we tend to notice it at all, at least until something goes wrong. And to keep such issues at bay, this requires some planning ahead. 

Part of guaranteeing a long-lasting roof that will serve you well for years to come (or even decades) is ensuring it’s been properly modified to withstand the elements. In other words, weather-proofing your roof is a must.

Early weather-proofing investments will spare you the headache of later – and likely longer – construction commitments to your roof. Repairing a hail damaged roof, for instance, will cost you much more than the preventative measures to strengthen your roof before a storm hits. In fact, post-hurricane studies have shown that the overwhelming majority of insurance filers following severe weather pertained to roof damage. (Other studies reveal that such prior roof damage could then result in severe water damage in subsequent rainstorms.) 

Weather-proofing your roof will reward you with its extended strength and lifetime. Whether you plan to do it yourself or hire a contractor, use this guide to help you correctly weather-proof your roof. 

Weather-Proofing Your Roof: On Your Own

Inspect for damage. Assess the state of your roof: check for loose or missing shingles, and other signs of damage. Gaps in the shingles that expose the underlayment (exactly how it sounds: the underlying layer) to the elements will hasten its decay. If you later decide to call up a professional roofing contractor, you may still choose to forego a roof inspector. That first evaluation step you can do more easily on your own.

Warning: Working on a roof can be dangerous. For your safety we do not recommend this and encourage you to hire licensed and trained professionals like Ace Construction & Remodeling roofing experts.

Note what can be revamped, and what will need replacing. If some shingles are older but still functional, they can be weather-proofed to prolong use. (Older shingles that have brittled are not safe for further layering, and are pointless to waterproof, replace them when necessary.) 

Waterproof your roof. This can be done one of two ways: waterproofing under the shingles, or waterproofing over them. If you’re investing in a new roof installation or replacing an old one, you’ll want to waterproof under the shingles. Including sub-shingle weather-proofing during installment will help it last much longer. Layered materials between rafters and shingles – tar paper, roofing felt, or thermoplastic polyolefin – that create the combined capabilities of keeping moisture out and reducing condensation in the attic – are key to maintaining a strong roof. 

However, if expensive repairs are a moot point for you; your roof is worn but not badly damaged; or you’re managing limited budgetary constraints; waterproofing over the shingles may be best for you. To restore shingles’ waterproofing oils or resins, simply roll or spray a waterproofing compound directly onto them.  

Keep in mind, if your underlayment is not already waterproof, applying these compounds is a fruitless effort. If this is the case, it is recommended that you weather-proof to the fullest extent possible by installing under-shingle waterproofing reinforcements.

Storm-proof your roof. Named notoriously as “roof eaters,” tropical storms and hurricanes can wreak havoc on an unprotected roof. 

With a shingled roof, regular inspections are crucial. Brittled shingles are damage-prone, and will tear and lift off in strong winds. If sturdy shingles remain, use six nails per shingle to secure them; replace all others that have worn. Verify the integrity of your roof’s shingles before installing a new layer on top, as worn shingles, even beneath a layer of brand new ones, significantly lower a roof’s wind rating

For the DIYer, you’ll need a ladder, putty knife, and caulking gun. Have a friend spot you while using the ladder. Assuming some flexibility in the shingles, apply the adhesive to their underside. Using your foot, press down firmly on each shingle to ensure full contact with the adhesive. 

Coastal residents especially will need to reinforce their roofs against strong winds. The best remedy is prevention; arrange for regular inspections to verify your roof will perform as needed. Due to specificity of materials (stainless steel flashing, hot dipped nails) and recommended inspections, it is best to hire a roofing company.

Weather-Proofing Your Roof: Hire a Pro

An expert roofing professional takes the stress out of weather-proofing your roof, granting peace of mind for the homeowner. In addition, there are inherent risks to climbing on the roof yourself. For your safety we strongly recommend hiring a professional.

Also consider that people that try to do these jobs themselves rarely have the skills and knowledge necessary to do quality work. At Ace Construction & Remodeling we often get called in to fix jobs that weren’t completed correctly or at all.

So, first enlist the help of a roof inspector, a step that will typically save you money in the long term. Next, choose a professional roofing contractor, considering these factors before you hire. 

A pro can give you a roofing estimate, or a new roof installation estimate, depending on what’s recommended. Ask your contractor how often they recommend roofing inspections, evaluating your location and year-round weather patterns.

At Ace Construction, we know what quality roof work looks like. Our licensed professionals are here to help. To request a quote, click here.

How to Get a New Roof from Insurance

Will your homeowner’s insurance cover a roof replacement? Even if you’ve thoroughly reviewed your policy, it can be unclear whether it will cover certain damages to your roof. Determining how to get a new roof from insurance can be difficult to explain. There can be so many exceptions and stipulations that vary from one insurance provider to the next.

Determining roof replacement insurance can be frustrating, especially if you’re unsure whether you’re eligible. Your provider may agree to pay partial or full cost or refuse coverage altogether if certain damages are deemed ineligible.

Our guide will walk you through what factors influence coverage, and how to get the most roof coverage from insurance. And hopefully we’ll help you raise the likelihood of your policy covering necessary repairs or complete roof replacement.

How to Get Insurance to Pay for Roof Replacement?

Several features of your roof will influence its eligibility for insurance coverage. A few factors to consider are its shape, recent updates, your location, age of the home, credit score, the deductible, frequency of claims, home security system, and preventative maintenance. Knowing these factors – and how they’ll affect you – is key.

Then, take action: raise your credit score, partner with an expert roofing company, invest in long-term preventative maintenance. Take every possible measure to raise your likelihood of qualifying for coverage. Life happens, and you never know whether the time will come when you’ll need it.

Also, do your research on local roofing companies, and ask if they’d be willing to advocate for you with your insurance provider. Expert roofers like Ace Construction & Remodeling Inc. can sometimes help manage coverage on your behalf.

Fortunately, there are several damage-causing events for which homeowner’s insurance does cover partial or full roof replacements. With a bit of planning ahead, you can learn what damages are less likely to be eligible for insurance coverage and take preventative steps. Knowing early which roof vulnerabilities are best to plan for will help you determine whether you’ll qualify for coverage in the future.

How to Get a New Roof from Insurance: The Unavoidable

Impairments inflicted by “acts of nature,” such as foul weather or storms, could also warrant partial or full coverage for roof damages. For example, what happens when a hailstorm wreaks havoc on your roof? If you’ve invested in both quality materials, expert roof installation, and preventative maintenance, but a bad storm still causes major damage, you could qualify for coverage toward leaking roof repair.

Your roof is the most exposed part of your home. Generally, insurance companies do acknowledge that severe effects from the elements are, at times, inevitable. If you can make a clear case that any sustained damage to your roof was unavoidable, your provider is likely to oblige. There are exceptions though, as Matt Timmons shares in How Insurance Covers Acts of God he says “But damage due to earthquakes, volcanoes and floods generally isn’t (covered).”

Taking care of your roof can boost the likelihood of your insurance policy covering a replacement. If ongoing roofing maintenance is left neglected long term, your insurance provider could claim damages ineligible if they were “preventable.” They may also refuse covering repairs or replacement if your roof is older and deemed past life expectancy.

How to Get a New Roof from Insurance: Steps to Take

To improve the likelihood of your provider deeming your roof damages acceptable for coverage, follow these steps:

  • When the unexpected happens, diligent roof maintenance is key to ensure insurance coverage. Make it clear to your provider by proving that all preventative efforts were made to ensure your roof’s durability and longevity.
  • Arrange roof inspection services to maintain its good condition. Spotting issues early keep damages minimal and costs low.
  • Take pictures. Be prepared with proof that it was in good condition before circumstantial damages occurred.
  • Keep neighboring trees trimmed to prevent foliage overhang on your roof. If your roof even appears to have sustained any damage from trees, you could be considered at fault.

A Roofing Calculator: Why You Need One and How to Use It

If your roof had an issue, there once was a time when very few of us thought twice about hiring a pro to fix it. And with that, there wasn’t much need for a roofing calculator. But since the COVID-19 outbreak and its various unforeseen stallings on home projects (shrunken income, lower budgets, public health concerns), many homeowners have considered the option to save on labor costs by way of the do-it-yourself alternative for re-roofing their homes.

That said, roofs are a costly investment. While it’s typically recommended that a licensed professional do the job, with the right preparations it is possible to re-roof your own home. [Warning: Attempting to re-roof a home yourself has many risks in addition to the complications that arise from doing things incorrectly. We highly recommend getting a quote from Ace Construction Roofing Company. You can discuss with them the pros and cons of trying to do this yourself, and your best options for hiring Ace.]

Either route you choose to go, consider using the measurement tool that’s a re-roofing project must: a roofing calculator. This will show you the total surface area of your roof measured in square footage, which will inform you how many shingles and nails you’ll need to purchase, and later, more importantly, how much it’s all going to cost.

When measuring your roof, note that a “square” in roofing terms equals 100 square feet. (For example, 12 squares equal 1200 square feet.) When ordering shingles, you’ll order them by the square.

DIY-ing? Roofing Calculators and other Factors to Keep in Mind

Do your homework. You will need to weigh factors like time you can invest, the realistic project timeline, and your budget. When it comes to re-roofing, mishaps are costly, and common roofing mistakes should be researched beforehand.

Other factors to keep in mind will be roofing material, number of shingles, and even the number of nails you’ll need. (Do you live in a windy area? You’ll need even more: six nails per shingle, rather than the typical five). And where do you get the materials? Many roofing 

Using a Roofing Calculator to Measure YourRoof’sSquareFootage

To access a roofing calculator, consider tools like RoofCalc or Calculator.net, both of which are free and user friendly. Remember the term “plane” from 9th grade geometry? Here, plane refers to each distinct flat surface of your roof, or “roof plane.” (For instance, a sloping shed may only have one roof plane, whereas a gable has two.)

Remember also that multiplying length by width equals area? Simply measure each plane’s square footage, then add all of them together. This sum equals the total square footage of your roof.

To calculate the square footage, measure the area of each plane. From the top of your roof, throw a rope down and mark to measure where it meets the eaves (the point where your roof either meets or “overhangs” with the house).

Of course, this sounds simple, but when you start getting “planes” that are trapezoids or pentagons, or irregular shapes with unequal sides (Remember regular and irregular polygons from Geometry class? – oh, yea, we hope you didn’t sleep through that class.) figuring the square footage can be complicated. Our suggestion…just put your mind at ease and get a quote from Ace Construction Roofing Company.

Measure The Roof Slope (also using a roofing calculator)

A roof surface may be either ‘functionally flat’ or ‘pitched.’ A roof’s pitch, or slope, measures its steepness, shown as either a ratio or the number of angular degrees a roofing plane “deviates” from horizontal level. You will need to measure this as well, especially if your roof is particularly steep.

The online roof calculators ask you for each measurement needed. The better ones will explain how to get the measurements. Be aware, if you are off on your measurements, this can significantly affect the accuracy of your calculations. And if you are ordering special shingles and come up short it can be a real problem.

Roofing C basics For a Simple Gable Roof

To calculate pitch, first measure the roof length by measuring the exterior walls (plus overhang) for the length of the house parallel to the ridge (the point where the roof starts to slope).

Then, from either ground or rooftop, toss a rope over the ridge and mark it where it meets each eave. This will measure the width. Be sure to do this for each roof section that has a horizontal ridge.

You can also determine your roof pitch by using other types of roofing calculators: a pitch gauge (available at most home improvement stores) or a smartphone app (available free through any app store).

Calculate Your Materials (how many nails you’ll need).

Roofing calculators won’t tell you this, nor the other equipment and supplies you will need. So, you’ll have even more research to do. But for the nails, once you’ve determined your number of shingles, multiply times five, the standard number of nails per shingle. (As mentioned earlier, if you live in a particularly windy region, count six per shingle.)

Having Second Thoughts?

If after reading this your head is beginning to spin with calculations, not to mention many other more serious concerns, then do yourself a favor and call Ace Construction Roofing Company. Ace roofers are experience, trusted and highly rated and are a preferred contractor with Owens Corning roofing materials.

What’s Got You Covered? 10 Types of Roofing to Consider for Your Home

Among the many decisions homeowners face – from landscaping, to what mortgage type is best – the kind of roofing you have may not exactly come first to mind. (“Fabulous! Are those new asphalt shingles?” is not a query we hear often from neighbors.) Nonetheless, types of roofing chosen cansignificantly impact your housing experience – for better or worse.

The front-end investments of both taking your time considering your options, and paying for quality, will likely spare you the headache and stress of later upkeep costs. After all, while no one intentionally advertises their warm attic for refuge-seeking wildlife to nest up – say, by way of rotted holes in their roof – very few of us plan not to.

Factors to Consider for Roof Types

Which types of roofing suit you best will depend on matters most important to you. Factors to consider are climate, budget, durability, and appearance. Do you live in a snow- or rain-heavy region? Is environmental friendliness important to you? How about energy efficiency? Are you planning to sell, and wish to raise the value with a centuries-lasting tile roof? Does your dream home emit a warm, rustic glow of wood shakes atop your log cabin? Reputation and experience of your roofing company will also influence the final price.

Fortunately, a range of favorable options exists. To cover your home, here are ten roofing types we recommend for a quality roof.

Synthetic Roof Types

Synthetic roofing products have expanded in variety to include rubber, plastic, and polymer, which tend to be cheaper, lighter, and less fragile to install than natural products. Some are even fire-resistant. A trained eye might be able to spot synthetic from natural; more likely, telling the difference from the curbside is nearly imperceptible.

Asphalt shingles – Don’t be fooled – it’s not just for paving driveways. The most popular option in the United States, this gritty type of roofing is easy to install and lightweight and therefore the most economical option. Its woven fiberglass base mat and ceramic granule covering create a sturdy protection that keeps out undesirables like UV rays. Asphalt’s availability in a full range of colors offers flexibility with most architectural home styles. While it is the most wallet-friendly material, asphalt is also environmentally unfriendly, and will not last as long as its heavier and costlier roofing compadres.

Cost: $

Lifetime: 15-30 years

Low maintenance, extreme impact, fire rated, authentic in beauty if not in composition – what’s not to love? Mimicking the appearance of its natural counterpart, synthetic wood shakes offer that similarly pleasing log-cabin look at a fraction of the cost. Innovations in technology have reached a quite convincing comparability to the real wood roof types, minus the same upkeep headaches that often come with natural wood.

Cost: $

Lifetime: 30 years

Synthetic slate – is formed from a blend of petroleum-based materials into metal forms, cast together from authentic slate. Like synthetic wood to natural, this too mimics the favorable appearance of natural slate. It also costs less – about one third to one half – thanks to its lighter weight and easier installation. Bonus: even synthetic slate is still considered a “green” alternative. If using recyclable content is important to you, a few synthetic slate options do incorporate post-consumer recycled materials.

Cost: $

Lifetime: 50-80 years

Durable, pliable and waterproof, rubber comes next for synthetic roof types. Designed to install where asphalt shingles don’t perform well, rubber can be installed on top of certain types of existing roofing and consequently save substantial labor costs.

Cost: $$$

Lifetime: 50 years

Natural Roof Types

Wood – roofing is installable in either shingles (trim and crisp, cut by a machine) or shakes (hand-splint, for a rustic appeal). The highest-value option is cedar, which tends to outlast most common types of roofing by at least a decade. If aesthetic matters greatly you, this may be a viable choice: a cedar roof will reward you with that enhanced, natural beauty to your home. Wood roofs pair beautifully with more traditional or historic houses. Residents of fire-prone regions should look for products treated with fire-resistant coating.

Cost: $

Lifetime: 30 years

When it comes to weathering all elements – rain, sleet, snow, or hail – no other substance exceeds metal roofs in durability and performance. Sow a heftier front-end cost, and you will reap long-term gain of little to no maintenance, fire protection, and longer wear from the elements, as it will outlive other options like wood and asphalt. Available in panels or shingles, metal types of roofing include aluminum, copper, stainless steel, and zinc.

Cost: $$

Lifetime: varies (aluminum will last 50 years, while copper could make it to 100 years or more)

Slate – offers a distinct elegance, available in black, green, grey, red, and purple. A heavier option like this one does call for structural consideration – can your home bear the weight of a denser roof material? Though of far higher cost, a slate roof gifts its investors with a century-long lifetime of little to no troubles.

Cost: $$$$

Lifetime: 75-100 years

For a touch of texture to a roof, clay and concrete tiles bring a distinct beauty atop one’s home. Both roofing types are energy efficient and extremely durable, but expensive, and quite heavy, and therefore must be installed by a licensed professional.

Cost: $$$

Lifetime: 100+ years

Finally, our tenth and final among our list of roof types is Spanish tile. Reminiscent of Spanish moss and stucco homes, with its distinct sheen, color, and wavy shape, Spanish tile proffers a uniquely upscale look. A bit of a synthetic/natural hybrid, it’s frequently composed of items like wood, concrete, plastic, or solar cells. It’s a great insulator and non-combustible, and one of the longest-lasting options on the market. Given its longevity and durability, Spanish tile falls at a surprisingly high-value rate.

Cost: $$

Lifetime: 100+ years

Overwhelmed?

We get it. As a homeowner, it can be daunting to face an unfamiliar decision like choosing from the many types of roofing. Never fear: our professional and experienced contractors are here to help.