Every home deserves to be attractive on the outside, and safe and warm on the inside. Unfortunately, the most noticeable portions of your home’s exterior are also the most expensive: the siding and the roof.  What do you do if you want to coordinate these portions of your property? How can you make them work together? Here are some design tips for anyone struggling to pair their roofing and siding.. 1. Your Property Is Only As Safe as Your Exterior Although a lot goes into the security and longevity of a property, much of it can be boiled down to how good the siding and roofing are. Beyond the attractiveness they’ll offer your property, take the time to look into the life and protection they’ll give and make sure to choose carefully. A roof should be able to last at least thirty years and be made of a material that’s sturdy yet flexible. This type of roof is one that can handle hurricanes and storms but also keep out the heat of a blazing summer and the moisture that comes from extreme humidity. On the other hand, your siding is something that should also be strong enough to last for years. Look for board and batten siding with enough insulation to block out insects, moisture, and weather that could threaten your property. 2. Have Fun With Stark Differences Bold contrasts are in, and with it comes the stark beauty of homes that understand that opposites work well together. This can be seen in the increase of white houses with black trim, and the rise of homes with orange terracotta roofing and gorgeous muted blue paint. Don’t let this trend end at just colors, though. Consider playing with contrasting textures and shapes as well, and allow your home to really stand out.  3. Keep Up With Trends Housing and siding styles go in and out of fashion every few years. Although board and batten siding has been popular for a while now, it’s hard to predict what will catch the eyes and imaginations of people next year.  If you look at current trends, you’ll often find the most popular siding options have a larger catalog of colors, which will give you more options when choosing the best one to pair with your roof. 4. Get a Roof That’s Built to Last Concrete, clay, and slate tiles last the longest, with some lasting 100+ years in the right conditions. Because of this, you must pick a style that will look amazing for every single one of these years while being easy to replace and still cost-effective. Look at the other homes in your neighborhood, and become familiar with what type of roofing they have. Although having a cookie-cutter home that matches your neighbors isn’t thrilling, you can get inspiration by noticing what you like or don’t like about their selection.  5. Siding Does More Than Just Boost Curb Appeal Your siding is the first insulation layer between your home and the outside world. Because of this: you should pay attention to what type of siding you get, and ensure that it can handle the temperature fluctuations and weather in your area.  Get siding that’s made out of more weather-resistant materials. The longest-lasting types of siding are vinyl and metal. Both of these types can be broken down into many different types of siding, but they’re the kind that lasts at least thirty years and will hold up against a storm or other tragic weather event. Your siding should buffer against noise pollution, insect infestation, weather, moisture, and anything else the world outside throws at it. Although you may feel unsure about picking what color goes with something so strong, the good thing is that most siding can be painted and changed at any time.  So if you paint your home and realize you don’t like a navy blue exterior, you can wait and then paint it whatever other color you want, and nobody will be able to tell you changed your mind. 6. Consider Going for Tonal Similarities Tonal similarities are a good cheat code to get your roof and siding to go together without having to be too matchy-matchy. This means choosing similar shades of colors that create contrast without being too vastly different. This means that if your shading is a cool-toned green, you don’t go for a terracotta orange roof but instead for a cool-toned slate roof. Avoid Clashing These Two Very Expensive Portions of Your Home Whether you’re updating them at the same time or spacing it out by a few years, you can coordinate these two very expensive portions of your property. To do so, take a step back and consider color trends and your personal style.  Roger Marx is a contributor to the Innovative Building Materials blog. He is a content writer for the construction and home improvement industries with an interest in landscaping, outdoor remodeling, and home renovation. Roger is focused on educating homeowners, contractors, and architects on innovative materials and methods of construction that increase property value and improve sustainability.

No one ever plans on a natural disaster hitting their home, but homeowners need to be prepared when it does. Part of being prepared is knowing how long you have to file a homeowners insurance claim. For the most part, homeowners can have up to a year after the incident to file their homeowner insurance claim. But this can vary depending on your insurance policy, the insurance company, or the state you live in. Reading your policy thoroughly will be the only way to find out. But regardless of how long you have to file your claim, the longer you wait, the worse off you are. What Does Homeowners Insurance Cover (or Not Cover)? Homeowner’s insurance is not a one-size-fits-all concept. While there are some commonly covered items across the board, different states can include various damages depending on what sort of weather frequents the area. But for the most part, you can expect a standard homeowner’s insurance policy to include coverage under four main categories:  Dwelling When damage occurs on any part of your home, it will fall under your dwelling coverage.  This could be damage to the roof, windows, walls, or floors. All standard policies should include coverage for damages occurring from: Other conditional coverages that aren’t always included in a standard policy might include damage from roof leaks, termites or rodents, water, mold, or crumbling foundations. Again, depending on your state, policy, or whether you add-on coverage, these may not always be included automatically. Or, they may have circumstantial coverage. Personal Property Any of your belongings that are not affixed to the home would fall under personal property coverage, such as; Most policies have a cap on how much they will reimburse for any one item (say $500 for a television), so it’s essential to make sure you have an accurate inventory list when you move into your home and update it as necessary on your policy. You can also note personal belongings with their market value in your policy. Other Structures If you have a detached garage, storage shed, or gazebo on your property, it will be covered under this portion of your homeowner’s insurance policy. So if a fire, storm, or other disaster were to affect your separate structures, you can be assured they’ll also be covered under your homeowner’s insurance policy. Liability Coverage Liability is necessary if anyone gets hurt on your property or if you cause any damages to their property. It protects your assets if someone is injured due to negligence and decides to sue you for it. This can include: Liability insurance can also cover any damages or injury caused by your pets and all people who are residents in your home. A good rule of thumb is to buy enough liability insurance to cover your assets. A.k.a, look at how much money you have in the bank. If you feel confident that amount will cover any liability lawsuits or claims, you should purchase more liability coverage. What Does a Standard Policy NOT Cover? Most homeowners’ insurance will not cover any damage from earthquakes, floods, wildfires, or hurricanes. Because these events are very dependent on location, homeowners that live in areas prone to such extreme weather need to add on that additional coverage on top of their policy. Super valuable jewelry or art will also need additional coverage purchased because most standard policies will max out somewhere around $2,000. This can also apply to cars, appliances, and other valuable items in your home.  To be safe, a good rule of thumb is to buy enough insurance to cover the replacement of your entire home plus everything inside. What Happens if You Wait to File a Homeowners Insurance Claim? While you may technically have some time to file your homeowner’s insurance claim, you really shouldn’t. When your home or roof are damaged, time is of the essence. By putting off this critical step to repairing your home, you are setting the clock on a ticking time bomb. Cracks in roofing shingles, your siding, loose bricks, or damaged flashing can all create the perfect environment for water, insects, or even rodents to get into your home, wreaking havoc on everything it touches. So what can happen if you wait to file? We’ll tell you. Now we know you don’t want any of those things to happen, so here are some tips for filing your insurance claim the right way (and on time). Tips for Filing an Insurance Claim for Maximum Coverage File your claim as soon as you spot any damage. Either the damage was apparent right after a storm, or you had an inspection, and they found damage. Most contractors can help you get your claim started because they know the ins and outs of such a task and can help ensure you get the coverage you need. To get the maximum coverage, you should also: Mistakes to Avoid When Filing Your Claim Just as there are things to do right, there are also many things to avoid when filing your insurance claim. Frequently Asked Questions About Filing Claims This can all be very daunting. And homeowners, rightfully so, have dozens of questions going through their minds. And while your home is damaged, stress levels are high, and it can be tough to manage to file a claim on top of getting your home inspected and wondering how and when this will all be over. Working through many insurance claims, we’ve heard just about every question in the book. So today, we’ll do our best to answer some of the most commonly asked questions regarding filing homeowners’ insurance claims. Will my premium go up? Yes, it’s likely your premium will go up if you file a claim. The reason being is that the more claims you file on your property, the higher the risk they deem your home to be. And if the insurance company is paying out on damage more frequently, then there’s always a chance of something else happening

Roof damage happens. And it’s always when you least expect it. When a storm hits, it can cause roof storm damage that leads to roof repairs or even a complete roof replacement if it’s severe enough. When this happens, you’re going to want to act fast. As you wait to get an inspection or repairs, water is busy seeping in through any cracks or damage in your roof shingles. If left unattended, this will cause mold growth, water spots, or even extensive damage to your insulation. What exactly causes damage during a storm? Now, just because you had any of these types of storms come through doesn’t necessarily mean your roof is damaged, but it’s essential to assess the roof anyways. As a homeowner, it’s your job to keep on top of the maintenance of your home, which includes maintaining your roof. Without proper maintenance, your roof can weaken and become even more susceptible to storm damage and issues. Neglecting your roof can hurt you if you ever submitted an insurance claim for storm damage. If the condition of your roof is a big part of the leaks or damage that came from a storm, it can diminish the coverage you may get from insurance. To avoid neglecting potential repairs, we’ll list out the obvious (and not so obvious) signs of roof storm damage so you can be on top of it. How to Spot Storm Damage on Your Roof: Signs to Look For Finding a roof leak is not the only way to know if you have roof storm damage or not. The leak may have been there for a while, and the rain is just making it more apparent. But there are much more subtle damages that can appear after a storm that has left your roof susceptible to leaks but hasn’t happened yet. Knowing the signs is vital to protecting your home from further damage. Here are some common signs of storm damage that you should be able to spot on your own before you even get a professional inspection. Curled, Loose, or Missing Shingles This is one of the most apparent (and severe) roof storm damage symptoms. If you look up at your roof and find that some shingles are curled, cracked, or missing altogether, you have storm damage. While it’s possible the roof was in poor condition before the storm hit, it’s more likely that high winds and hail wreaked havoc on your poor shingles. Visible Granule Loss Your shingles’ granules are your roof’s first line of defense against the elements, and when those come off, your roof is weakened against rain and storms. The granules protect the underlayer of your shingle which can lead to water leaks if damaged. So those granules are very important. Granules are tiny, so it can be hard to spot damage at first glance. But, when they slough off, they can end up in your gutters and downspouts. So if you find these little black granules in either spot, your next step should be to get your roof inspected. Water Spots on the Ceiling On the inside of your home, if you notice any water spots on the upper floor ceiling (which lies beneath your attic), there’s a chance you have a roof leak. Water spots can also be caused by trapped moisture in the attic, which is caused by poor insulation.  This can also be discovered during a roofing inspection, but don’t assume water spots aren’t caused by a roof leak—that can be detrimental to your home’s integrity. If you see a new water stain on the ceiling immediately after a storm, chances are you have a big enough leak to already be soaking through the attic floor. And you need to act fast. Buckets and tarps will buy you time, but ultimately you need to contact a contractor right away to inspect and repair the leak. Large Debris Laying on the Roof Take note of any large debris, such as branches or large sticks laying across your roof after a storm has passed. Debris that is large enough can be blown on your roof via high winds and actually damage or even lift up the edge of your shingles, causing damage.  Note: you should always trim overhanging trees to prevent any extra-large branches from falling on your roof during a strong storm. Dented or Discolored Shingles  Although really large hail (an inch or more) is pretty rare, wind can accelerate the impact of even small hailstones to the point of denting your shingles. But dents can be hard to see, especially from the ground. So if you notice polka-dot-looking discoloration on your shingles, that can be a good indicator of hail damage. Clogged Gutters and Downspouts If you live under a lot of trees, a storm can blow all kinds of twigs, leaves, and even branches into your gutters. Even large hailstones can sit in your downspouts and clog the water flow. When your gutters or downspouts are clogged, that water has nowhere to go but into your home. Gutters and downspouts can also be incredibly susceptible to dents, cracks, and other damage—even getting torn down in high winds. So inspecting those right away can save you a ton of pain and strife dealing with water flowing improperly off your roof. Damaged Flashing This one will be hard to spot on your own without getting up on the roof, but if a storm damages your flashing, you could be in trouble. Flashing is installed around certain spots to make a watertight seal:  Flashing can get damaged when shingles nearby lift up, separating the flashing from the house, or even hailstones can dent flashing to the point of causing cracks or dents where water can get in. This damage immediately compromises your roof’s ability to ward off rainwater. Dented Roofing Vents Many roofing vents or pipe boots are made of metal like aluminum, making them incredibly likely for dents if a hailstorm comes through. This can affect

We’re all guilty of taking our roof for granted. It offers us tried and true protection from the elements and ensures our families are safe and warm all year round. But what about when a storm strikes and you’re forced to repair or replace your roof? It might happen when you least expect it, so it’s vital to know what to do first. And that is filing an insurance claim to get your roof replacement covered. Insurance claims can be complex, so we’re here to help you navigate the process and ensure you get your new roof paid for. How to Know if You Need a Roof Replacement First, let’s go over the signs of needing a roof replacement. Some signs can be caused by storm damage, and others may just be signs of an aging roof. But for the most part, insurance will not cover anything besides sudden and accidental damage, such as storm damage from hail or strong winds. If you notice any of the following issues after a strong storm, you may need to take the appropriate steps to file an insurance claim for roof replacement. Missing or Loose Shingles Shingles that are missing or loose after a storm could indicate damage. If the shingles on your roof are starting to go, it’s best to replace them before they cause any more damage. Because once those shingles are gone, your roof is immediately susceptible to water leaks. Water Spots on the Ceiling If you’ve been experiencing water leaks inside your home, especially after a storm, there is likely damage to your roof or an issue in the attic. Visible Granule Loss Granules are your shingles’ first line of defense against the elements. They’re the top layer of a shingle that protects against rain, wind, hail, etc. If you notice granules in your gutters or downspouts after a hailstorm, you should get a roof inspection. Sagging Roof A sagging roof could be an indication of damage or age. If it seems like your roof is sagging, it’s best to call a professional for an inspection. Damaged Flashing Flashing is the metal that goes around your chimney, pipes, or anywhere on your roof where there are seams. Damaged flashing can cause leaks in your home if not addressed immediately. Loose Debris on Your Roof If you notice branches, twigs, or other large debris on your roof, it can be a good indicator that your roof was damaged. When large debris like overhanging branches falls onto your roof, those granules can slough off, or shingles can crack or come loose under the impact. So if you see debris on your roof, you should get a thorough inspection right away. Dented, Hail-Damaged Shingles  Hail can cause a lot of damage to your roof, and if it’s severe enough, the insurance company may deem it an Act of God (yes, that’s an actual insurance term). If you have visible hail damage on your shingles, take pictures and document it as best as possible, and get a professional inspection. If hail damage is bad enough, you may also want to get the roof tarped while you wait for repairs or replacement. Clogged or Broken Gutters and Downspouts Clogged gutters and downspouts can cause significant issues for your roof. When there’s a clog in the drainage system, water can back up onto the roof and seep into any crack or seam. Additionally, if you have broken gutters or downspouts, it could be an indication of damage to your roof as well. Now that you know some of the signs let’s go over how to file an insurance claim for roof replacement. Getting Insurance to Cover Your Roof Replacement or Repairs Many homeowners are unaware that their standard homeowner’s insurance policy includes wind and hail damage protection. This means that if a storm hits and damages your roof, chances are you’ll receive coverage. But some things are not covered under standard policies, and knowing what those are can help avoid surprises when you file. Things like wear and tear or failed DIY repairs will not be covered and could even void any potential coverage if your roof wasn’t in good condition before it received storm damage. There are some key things to know to get insurance to cover your roof replacement, and we’ll detail them below. Know Your Policy and What Should Be Covered Raise your hand if you’ve skimmed over a policy without really reading it, then signing it anyways (reluctantly raises hand). This can be a big mistake when it comes to your homeowner’s insurance. There is a lot of fine print and many circumstantial coverages that you will definitely want to know about when you need it most. When you first buy your home, you should read through your policy closely, highlighting important areas that can be easily referenced when you file a claim. You should also add on additional critical coverage such as flood or earthquake insurance if you live in areas with a higher likelihood of those events. A standard insurance policy will frequently cover roof damages from the following: Typical roof damages NOT covered under a standard insurance policy: Document the Damage If you sustained storm or other accidental damage to your roof that you believe needs repairs or replacement: document, document, document. The more photos and documentation you can get after it just happened, the better off you may be for getting proper coverage. Insurance adjusters or your contractor will also document damages when they do their inspection, but for peace of mind and security, you can document it yourself as well. This can help fight against any fraudulent repairs or estimates given to you by less-than-trustworthy contractors. We’ll cover some tips for avoiding scams in a little bit. Documentation of damages can look like: The more information you can gather, the better off you’ll be in getting insurance to pay for your roof replacement. Smartphone pictures and video should suffice if you don’t have a point-and-shoot

When you least expect it, storms and natural disasters can cause damage to your roof, leaving you wondering what to do next. First, know that you need to act fast to get your roof repaired to mitigate further damage. However, filing an insurance claim for a new roof isn’t always easy, and you might face some hurdles. Luckily, this guide will tell you everything you need to know about when and how to file an insurance claim for your roof successfully. When Is It Appropriate to File a Roof Insurance Claim? When your roof sustains damage due to hail, wind storms, or a natural disaster, you must file an insurance claim through your homeowner’s insurance policy. Even if the damage isn’t extensive enough for you to notice it right away, filing a roof insurance claim is important because it’ll protect all the other parts of your roof.  If you don’t file a roof claim, the exposed parts could be damaged even further by weather conditions and eventually lead to water damage throughout your property. You should also consider filing an insurance claim if: When Should I Contact an Insurance Company? Once you know for sure that you want to file a roof insurance claim, the next step is deciding if it’s time to contact your insurer after discovering roof damage or waiting until the damage worsens. In general, it’s best to contact your insurance company as soon as possible after a storm or natural disaster. That way, they’ll have an accurate record of when the damage occurred and can send out an adjuster sooner. If you wait too long, the adjuster might not be able to come out. You should also get an inspection before starting your claim or do them simultaneously. Sometimes if you notice debris on the roof or other signs of storm damage, it doesn’t necessarily mean your roof was damaged. But these can indicate you need a thorough inspection to note and pinpoint any damage right away. What Does an Insurance Claim Cover (Or Not Cover)? Sometimes you can file an insurance claim for old damage, depending on a few factors. But insurance claims may not always cover certain things, so arming yourself with the proper knowledge before you set yourself up for disappointment can be vital to ensure you get coverage. A standard homeowner’s insurance claim will often cover the following: A standard homeowner’s insurance claim will often NOT cover the following: Add-On Coverage Options You can add coverages to your standard policy if you want or need additional coverage. For example, people living in a floodplain area or near a fault line will want to add earthquake or flood protection to their plan. Some states make flood insurance mandatory. You can sometimes waive it with a LOMA (letter of map amendment). Other necessary add-ons to insurance could be: Things to Think About Before Filing an Insurance Claim Before you take the first steps towards filing your insurance claim, take a moment to go over these considerations that can make it more complicated to file or would end up denied. How Many Claims Have You Filed Previously? We want to start by saying you should absolutely file an insurance claim if you experience extensive damage from a storm or natural disaster. It will significantly reduce the amount you need to pay for repairs or even rebuilds. However, if you have filed two or more claims in the last few years, you might be looking at a significant increase in your insurance premiums. So be mindful of when and why you file claims to ensure you don’t face higher premiums or get denied down the road. Are You Certain You Have Damage? To piggyback off of filing too many claims, to avoid doing that, make sure you have damage before filing a claim. One way to do this is to know the signs of roof damage, and another is to get a free no-obligation inspection from a reputable contractor. You can get the damage assessed before you even file your claim or get an inspection from an insurance adjuster. How Old Is Your Roof? As we noted above, your homeowner’s insurance will not cover anything that is caused by routine wear and tear. Sometimes this wear and tear looks like storm damage or is the reason you have a leak from a rainstorm—because your old roof just can’t stand up to the elements. If your roof is super old or is nearing the end of its expected lifespan, your chances of getting repairs covered by insurance might be slim to none. But if storm damage is extensive and you have to get it replaced right away, you might have more luck. Also, it’s important to note that insurance won’t cover a new roof just because it’s now old and worn out. When Did You Notice the Damage? Time is of the essence when filing an insurance claim. The longer you wait, the more damage can occur, and the more complicated inspections and insurance claims can be. You may get your claim denied if you ignored damage that led to more water leaks or issues—which will likely not be covered because it falls under neglect in your insurance policy. So the second you notice damage or the day after a storm rolls through, act fast to get your claim filed and inspection scheduled. What Is Your Insurance Deductible? If you have a high deductible and aren’t prepared for paying even that, you should discuss financing options with your contractor or insurance company. Any roof repair or replacement can be a financial burden to anyone, especially those not expecting such a cost. So, know you have options and avoid any surprises. To File or Not to File—That Is the Question Now that we’ve covered the bases of what an insurance claim will or will not cover, you have a few options and a big decision to make.  To recap, if you have roof damage, your roof is

Find yourself looking at a total roof replacement? We know what you’re thinking—”How the hell am I going to pay for this?” And to that, we say—don’t panic—we’re here to help. Many different factors can affect how much a roof replacement costs you, from the materials you choose, whether or not insurance is involved, and how big your house is. Luckily, you can get a very good idea of how much money you’re looking at before you ever even hire a contractor. Today we’re going to walk you through how much each roofing material may cost for a roof replacement, plus other things to consider before you tackle such a large project. Refer to this handy guide when that time comes, and you’ll be stress-free and ready for your brand new roof. How Much Does an Average Roof Cost in the United States? Getting an accurate roof cost without knowing all of the factors and considerations can be difficult. Also, we won’t lie, a roof replacement will be costly, but it’s also one of the most significant investments you can make in your home. With all things considered, the cost of an average-sized home (1,800 sq. ft.) with an asphalt shingle roof will cost around $12,000 to $15,000.  Asphalt shingles are the most commonly used roofing material in America, primarily due to their affordability. But asphalt shingle roofs are also very versatile and easy to maintain—making them an excellent choice for any homeowner or home style. Again, this is just an average estimate. Still, for something more accurate, it’s vital to get with a reputable contractor you can trust to do a thorough inspection and get you an accurate estimate. Your roof cost will be a culmination of: The total cost of the roof will also include labor which makes up about 60% of the total, with 40% being for materials. Factors That Affect How Much a New Roof Costs As we mentioned, many things tally up the total cost of your roof replacement. It’s essential to arm yourself with this knowledge beforehand to choose wisely and budget accordingly. Things that can raise or lower your total roof replacement cost include, but are not limited to, the following. The Size of Your Roof The size of your roof plays a major factor in the overall cost of your roof replacement. First, the cost goes up because you simply need more materials for the roof, but also it will take longer, thus raising the cost of labor. It won’t affect the cost as drastically as other things, but it’s important to note that the cost will be above-average if you have a huge roof with many peaks and valleys. The Roof’s Pitch Your roof’s pitch, or slope, complicates the installation of the roofing materials. So, not only does it become harder to haul things up the roof, but it creates a more hazardous environment for the roofing contractors. This cost increase will likely be applied when you have a very steep roof. The Condition of Your Existing Roof When you get a roof replacement, the contractors will tear off the old roof to make room for the new one. If your old roof was in decent shape, chances are it also protected the materials and roof decking underneath. This makes it easy for your new roof to get installed on top without any fuss. However, if your existing roof was in poor condition and was cracked or sagging in places, this can halt the process. Before a new roof is installed, the roof decking and your overall roof need to be repaired and conditioned to handle the new shingles or roofing materials. This can add time, energy, materials, and additional repair costs to your total bill. The Type of Roof You Choose Your roofing material is probably the biggest factor that can make or break your roof replacement cost. Roofing materials like asphalt shingles are much more affordable than premium options like slate or clay tile. The total cost of your roof can vary by tens of thousands of dollars depending on the type of material you choose, so it’s good to know all of your options before you decide. The State or Climate You Live In Different states have different climates for installing roofs. There may be a smaller window of time to install roofs in places that experience harsh winters or even hurricane and rainy seasons. So you may see higher labor costs in weather that is less than ideal. Also, different states will have different fees, taxes, materials costs, and other list items that can increase how much the roof replacement will cost in the end. The Contractor You Choose Lastly, the contractor you choose can vary in labor costs depending on their team’s size, expertise, and the type of roof they’re installing. Find yourself a contractor that is transparent about their labor costs and can include that in your estimate. But for the most part, you can expect labor costs to range from $1.50 to $3.75 per square foot baseline, but going up based on the project and material type. How Much Does Each Roofing Materials Cost? And What Are the Benefits? Now the fun part—the cost of each roofing material and what to expect from each. As you enter the more premium end of things, you do pay more upfront, but the benefits of having such a premium material often outweigh the high costs. But let’s find out for sure which roofing material is best for you and your budget. Asphalt Shingles: $5,000 to 12,500 Asphalt shingles are definitely on the lower end of cost for a roof, but it doesn’t mean you are getting a bad roof. In fact, asphalt shingles are the most commonly installed roof in the United States for a reason. Benefits of an asphalt shingle roof include: Architectural Shingles: $12,000 to $16,000 Architectural shingles are a more premium option than asphalt shingles. Though they may look similar to asphalt shingles,

Roof ventilation is a term that may sound familiar, but not everyone knows exactly what it means. So, when it comes to roof ventilation, there are three key things you need to know: Today, we’ll expand on those and talk about everything you need to know about roof ventilation. You’ll learn how to do it, why it’s important, and bust a few myths along the way! Roof Ventilation: Defined Simply put, a roof vent will remove moisture and hot air from your attic. However, there are many different types of roof vents that can remove moisture and heat in various ways. But in the end, one thing is true: it’s critical to ensure your roof and attic stay at the right temperature and moisture-free. There are two types of roof ventilation: exhaust vents and air intake vents. Each is valuable but varies in many ways. We’ll detail the differences and benefits of each below. Exhaust Vents: Remove Moisture and Heat An exhaust vent is designed to remove hot air and moisture from your attic. The most common type of exhaust vent is a ridge vent. Ridge vents sit at the peak of your roof and ensure any hot air rising to the top of the attic has a place to escape.  Hot air contains moisture, so poor ventilation can create a very moist environment that can end up rotting and warping the wood in your attic. Other types of exhaust vents include: Intake Vents: Bring in New, Fresh Air An intake vent is designed to bring in clean, fresh air from the outside. While exhaust vents are meant for removing moisture and heat, intake vents remove stale air that might be trapped inside your attic or roofing system and replace it with fresh outside air. They can also help reduce temperatures which will lower cooling costs during the summer months.  The most common type of intake vent is your soffit vents. The soffit along the eaves of your roof ensures a steady flow of air is always coming into your attic space. Other common types of air intake vents include: Both exhaust and intake vents work in tandem to create a consistent airflow that keeps moisture out, air circulating, and allows proper temperature control in your attic. Roof Ventilation: Fact vs. Fiction Some people may think that having vents in their attic means cold air will come into their home, and they’ll have to crank up the heat. This, among other myths, will get cleared up today. Roof ventilation is vital to your roof’s health and prevents expensive damage to your home. Fact: Improper ventilation traps heat and moisture in the attic. Heat doesn’t rise, but hot air does. And when hot air sits in your attic for an extended period of time, the built-up moisture also sits there and dampens wood beams, floorboards, and roof decking.  That persistent moisture can cause mold growth in your attic or warp wood that is vital to ensuring your roof stays strong and secure. Thus, getting that moisture and hot air out of the attic is essential to temperature control and upholding the integrity of your roof. Fiction: My home’s ventilation was built to code, so it should be fine. Codes change all the time. So even if your home was built a decade ago, your ventilation system must get updated to current codes and the proper amount for the size of your roof. The bigger your attic space, the more vents you’ll need. Make sure you find yourself a contractor who can help you get where you need to be. Fact: Poor ventilation is the leading cause of recurrent, damaging ice dams. Ice dams are huge, yes, dams of ice that build up on the edges of your roof during the cold months. But, no, it’s not because cold air is being let into the attic. It’s because the poor ventilation is causing an imbalance of warm air at the roof’s peak, with cooler air on the bottom. So when snow and ice melt at the top of the roof, it refreezes at the bottom, forming giant ice dams. Ice dams are hazardous and damaging to your home. They are not like icicles but instead can get so heavy they tear off gutters, soffits, and even shingles. Plus, when the ice dams thaw in the spring, that water has nowhere to go but into your attic at the roof’s edge—causing extensive water damage to your home.  So please, get the proper ventilation. Fiction: Having vents in my attic will let the cold air in and cool the house down. And lastly, we want to reiterate that your roof vents are meant to circulate air in your attic and not your home. If your home and attic are well insulated on top of well ventilated, you should have no issues with heat or cold escaping from or entering your home. You will have more issues with high energy bills and inconsistent temperature with fewer attic vents and poor ventilation. Signs of Poor Ventilation We briefly touched on the signs of poor ventilation with our myth-busting guide, but there are a few other key signs to watch out for that can indicate a poorly ventilated roof. Roof Venting Basics to Help Improve Your Home Now that you know a bit of why you need roof ventilation let’s go over more of the basics of how it works, where it’s needed, and how it’s installed. Airflow, Airflow, Airflow The main thing to know is that roof venting is about getting proper airflow into the attic space. We’ve gone over what can happen when you don’t have it, but what happens when you do have it? Proper airflow means consistent temperatures across your attic and in your home. It also means your home’s wood beams and structure stay dry and last much longer.  Airflow will also ensure your shingles and roofing materials last as long as they intended, without having to work extra hard to

When you need roofing services, it can be overwhelming to know where to start! If you live in a big city, choosing a local roofer to get the job done can be quite daunting. You may hit Google and find pages upon pages of results for “the best local roofer in town,” but how do you actually find a trustworthy roofer? We’re going to help you. Whether you need someone specializing in commercial jobs or residential homes, our guide will help steer you in the right direction and ensure that you end up with high-quality results that protect your big investment. What You Want in a Roofer Everyone has their own opinions or even some deal-breakers, but there are some definite must-haves to look for when hiring a roofer. The best roofers will: Services You Should Look For In addition to qualities in a good roofer, you should also look for a roofer who supplies the following services (at least): Tips for Vetting Local Roofers When it comes time to find a local roofer, you’re going to want to consider a few things that can help vet them and help you find the best of the best. When you’re getting work done on your home, you don’t want to hire just anyone. You want (and need) your roofer to be reliable, trustworthy, hardworking, and come with beneficial warranties and other features that make them stand out among the crowd. Here are some tips for vetting local contractors so you can find the best one that suits your needs (and budget). Read Through Reviews—Good and Bad Just like when you make an online purchase or a big purchase, you will want to read through reviews to find out if the thing you want is indeed a good choice. When you first head to your search engine to look up local roofers, look at the reviews. Make sure you look at both the star rating, but also the number of reviews. For example, if a roofer has a 5-star rating but only two reviews, that’s not exactly reputable. But if they have four stars out of 100 reviews, that’s almost more intriguing because of how many people were willing to leave reviews. So they’re more worth looking into. Make sure to read the top reviews, of course, but also anything three and under. Those reviews can be very telling of a roofer, especially if you see recurring issues. For example, maybe people had consistent issues with reliability and the roofers not having a quick response time to calls and emails. This can be a deal-breaker for many, so be mindful and diligent as you go through their reviews. Look for Certifications and Licenses Particularly when hiring roofers, you want to make sure they are actually certified and licensed. There’s nothing worse than thinking that someone has your back (literally) but having them not be vetted within their own industry. Certifications come directly from manufacturers as proof that this contractor has done the education and training to properly install their shingles. And licenses and insurance indicate that these local roofers take the time to protect their business through industry standard practices with licensure and insurance. Check Their Location vs. Service Areas Contractors may claim they are local but actually provide service to a large state-wide area. If they can pull it off and maintain both quality and efficiency, that’s amazing. But local roofers with massive service areas can sometimes be a red flag and is something to be mindful of. It may affect their ability to be readily available with questions or concerns. It’s also a good sign they don’t have an office and instead work remotely from vehicles across the state. Review Their Website—Does it Look Professional? A bad website can be a major turnoff for anyone, especially in today’s digital age. A professional roofer should have a website that is not only helpful for you to get your questions answered but also looks clean and well-designed. Look for Testimonials on Their Website Testimonials are an added bonus, and another sign that this contractor can be trusted and reliable—and their customers were so happy they provided real testimonials about a job well done. Some roofers will even provide video testimonials from satisfied clients. To us, that shows dedication, honor, and a commitment to their customers. Check Which Services They Offer Offering too many services can be an excellent way to pull your company in way too many directions. Meanwhile, offering too little can mean you don’t have good processes in place to provide well-rounded, complete services to customers. Be mindful of any local roofer who is too far one way or the other. A nice balance of roofing service that includes gutters, maintenance, and repair is vital to finding a good roofer dedicated to mastering one particular set of skills—providing you with the best service possible. Do They Offer Warranties? Warranties are a lifesaver when it comes to roofing. Roofing manufacturers will offer certain warranties on product defects that can make a huge difference when repairs come along too soon. Also, a roofer who offers a workmanship warranty is one that you can rely on. They stand by their work so much that they’re willing to guarantee it for 10+ years. Red Flags to Look for When Hiring a Roofing Contractor There are big red flags to watch for when you’re on the hunt for a local roofer. The tips above can help guide you in the right direction, but some things should stop you in your tracks before going further with a potential roofer. “Fly-by-Night” Contractors Also known as storm chasers, these contractors flock to an area recently hit with storm damage to make some quick cash. They are often from out of state, and they’ll go to an area, knocking on doors, telling people they have damage that needs to be repaired. They’ll take payment, do a quick job, and take off like they were never there. Watch out

No matter what type of roof you install on your home or commercial structure, it needs insulation to maintain its energy efficiency and provide added protection to your home. This can vary based on the roofing material itself—some offer natural insulating abilities—the climate, and where the roof is being installed. Either way, business owners often wonder what insulation they need, how often it should be replaced, and how much it will cost. This guide will help anyone looking to insulate a flat roof so they can stay warm in the winter, cool in the summer, and benefit from lower energy bill costs. What is Flat Roof Insulation? We repeatedly talk about what the best flat roof materials are, how to install them, how long they last—the list goes on. But insulation is just one element of the whole roofing system, and it’s important to know what it is, how it works, and the benefits of insulating properly before you consider which is best. Flat roof insulation makes a structure more energy-efficient and minimizes heat loss, which is highly likely from any poorly insulated roof. There are actually two insulation types depending on the flat roof material installed: warm flat roofing and cold flat roofing. In warm flat roofing, the insulation is installed on top of the roof decking rather than underneath the entire roof system. Meanwhile, cold flat roofing is just that—insulation is installed between joists underneath the roof’s surface/decking. How to Insulate a Flat Roof Now that we know that there are generally two types of flat roof insulation, that means there are two general ways to install it. We’ll cover the essentials to get a base, but the specific types of insulation may require some additional steps to install it correctly. Installing Warm Flat Roofing Insulation Business owners benefit from installing a warm flat roof because they won’t experience issues with condensation. In addition, since the insulation is positioned above the roof decking, it won’t retain water from moisture build-up beneath the roof and above the joists. This is also thanks to the vapor-control layer. A thin layer of rigid board insulation must be positioned over the top of the vapor control layer before the roof is waterproofed on top. Installing Cold Flat Roofing Insulation With cold flat roof insulation, the material is placed between the supporting joists, with a small gap between the roof and insulation, enabling airflow circulation. If this type of insulation is being installed on an older building with an existing flat roof, it can be installed by taking down the ceiling and installing it that way. For properties that have very shallow joists above their ceiling, spray foam is an optional method but may not be ideal for the type of flat roof installed—check with your local building codes. What Types of Insulation Are Available for Flat Roofs? The insulation you choose for your flat roof depends on many factors, such as your climate or the roofing material being installed. Although there are many options available to business owners, below is a list of some popular types. Cellular glass Cellular glass insulation is used with warm flat roofing installations. Glass fibers are mixed with resin and formed into small cells, trapping air inside to provide insulation. It is a water-resistant material that will not rot or absorb moisture and can be used in conjunction with other insulation types. Perlite Perlite insulation is a mixture of organic fibers, binding agents, and air cells that blend together to create excellent insulation for flat roofs. In addition, an asphalt coating is often applied to reduce water absorption. Polyisocyanurate This type of insulation is a foam material with high thermal resistance. It’s used for cold-flat roofing installations and blown-in between the felt layers of a flat roof. The one downside is it may have issues with condensation if there are any penetrations in the roof surface or gaps at joints between panels. Polystyrene There are two types of polystyrene insulation—expanded and extruded. Polystyrene is a plastic polymer used to make many things, but it’s mixed with other chemicals to make polystyrene insulation. To make expanded insulation, it gets mixed with a foaming agent. The extruded version is heated and expanded polystyrene. Wood fiber An organic board made of wood or cane, with various binders and fillers, makes up wood fiber insulation. In addition, an asphalt coating may be applied to the surface to improve its water resistance. Insulating a Flat Roof: Frequently Asked Questions There are many things to consider before insulating your flat roof. You want to choose the most effective insulation for your flat roof and also hire the right team to install it properly. There are a few questions we hear consistently asked by business owners looking to insulate their flat roofs. We’ll do our best to answer them and help guide you in the right direction. Can I add insulation to an existing flat roof? Yes, this is possible. You can always add insulation to an existing flat roof if you feel the first installation was not effective enough, or it’s been 25+ years and needs a refresh. However, adding new material means removing some of your current insulation to make room for it—so be sure that’s really what you want before beginning! Will I need a vapor barrier? A vapor barrier is a layer of material that inhibits the passage of water vapor and moisture. In colder climates, it’s crucial to install a vapor barrier to prevent condensation on the underside of your roofing system. The best way to determine if you need a vapor barrier is to speak with an insulation expert who will have knowledge of your climate and the type of insulation being installed. How much insulation should I add? Climate plays a significant factor in determining how much insulation you need, at what thickness. For example, if you experience cold winters, you need to make sure that you install enough insulation to keep the sheathing above the