Although they aren’t for every building or every building owner, a standing seam metal roof is one of the most high quality roof systems you can install. Also, they are becoming more popular partly because of the rising cost of petroleum causing fiberglass asphalt shingle roof prices to climb over the last several years. A standing seam metal roof can seriously enhance the structural integrity and look of your home or business. It comes in steel, aluminum, copper, and stainless steel, to name a few.
[Read more…] about STANDING SEAM METAL ROOFS
WIND DRIVEN RAIN
Often, customers will contact our office to report leaks that have manifested themselves after a storm with wind driven, or driving, rains. We hear that an area of the roof or ceiling leaks, but not consistently with every rain.
[Read more…] about WIND DRIVEN RAIN
WHAT IS YOUR ROOF MADE OF?
At WCC ROOFING CO, we know that our job is not only to help you build, maintain and restore your roof, but to help you understand the type of roof that you have so that you can preserve it for years to come.
There are many types of roofing materials, some more widely used in commercial roofing than in residential and vice versa. Among the roofing types, we have selected 7 categories to briefly describe their characteristics.
[Read more…] about WHAT IS YOUR ROOF MADE OF?
4 NO-NOS WHEN MAKING DECISIONS ABOUT YOUR ROOF
With any investment, such as your home, you really should weigh your options before making major decisions on how to maintain it. Avoid these pitfalls when making decisions on how to preserve your roof.
- Starting a major roof repair or replacement by yourself (if you are inexperienced).
Unless you have extensive roofing knowledge, it’s probably best to leave the roof work to the professionals. Tearing off a roof is dangerous and difficult work. We have often been called in to “rescue” homeowner from a project that they began but soon realized they were in over their heads. The mistake is often made in an effort to save a few dollars, however, this can cause more damage and cost more in the long run. With the proper safety equipment, knowledge and skill level, a certified roofing contractor is the way to go.
- Buying your own materials.
[Read more…] about 4 NO-NOS WHEN MAKING DECISIONS ABOUT YOUR ROOF
THE IMPORTANCE OF PROPERLY INSTALLED FLASHING
What is flashing?
The protective seal that prevents water intrusion at areas such as skylights, chimneys, dormers and vents is called flashing. Flashing is a critical preventive measure for moisture damage when water is most prone to penetrate a roof’s surface.
Where is flashing important?
Flashing is important at all roof penetrations, including edges, valleys, joints and any grooves, gaps, intersections and projections on the roof of any structure.
How can improper flashing damage my roof?
[Read more…] about THE IMPORTANCE OF PROPERLY INSTALLED FLASHING
THE TRUTH ABOUT LEAKS
Our goal is to secure your first line of defense when it comes to the elements. Water, in whatever form, (rain, snow, sleet, or hail), has a way of penetrating any weaknesses in a roofing system. It is our goal to not only install roofs that will stand up to the wear and tear that the weather brings year after year, but to also assist when water intrusions occur.
While many roofs leaks are simple to repair, determining the source of the leak is often the more difficult task. When customers identify a drip in their ceiling, they often assume that the leak is originating above the leakage point, however, a leak can be traveling down a rafter or can even be the accumulation of condensation. For example, it is common for plumbing and AC leaks to be misdiagnosed as roof leaks. They can be tricky.
[Read more…] about THE TRUTH ABOUT LEAKS
ROOFING IN COLD WEATHER
Most people opt to have a new roof installed in the spring and summer months. Others looking to replace their roof decide to install during the fall. But what happens to the roofs that are installed in the cold winter months?
Often customers ask us if it is okay to install a new shingle roof when the temperatures are extremely cold. This is especially concerning for those who do not have a choice in the matter and must replace their roof immediately.
[Read more…] about ROOFING IN COLD WEATHER
Ice Damming, The Facts About – By Your Knowledgeable Local Roofing Contractor
We offer the following facts about Ice Damming to help homeowners understand what they are dealing with. Ice damming is the result of snow melting on the upper portions of a roof, then re-freezing on lower portions of the roof. The “melting” we are referring to is that caused by warm air from the heated interior of the home escaping into the attic above. As the home’s interior heat escapes into the attic, it warms the underside of the roof deck and begins to slowly melt the snow that is resting on the roof. The melting snow drains down the roof, then begins to freeze again once it reaches that point where the roof extends beyond the exterior wall of the home (i.e. the roof overhang / eave) because that portion of the roof does not get warmed by the escaping heat from the interior of the home. The longer snow remains on a roof, slowly melting on the upper portion of the roof and re-freezing along the roof eaves below, the bigger the ice dam becomes. Eventually, the growing ice dams become so tall that the melting snow above can no longer drain over the growing ice dams below. Once this happens, water begins to back up under the shingles and leaks into the interior of the home. This leakage will typically then continue until the melting snow on the roof can once again drain off of the roof (i.e. will continue to leak until the ice dam is gone or no longer big enough to cause water to back up under the shingles).
[Read more…] about Ice Damming, The Facts About – By Your Knowledgeable Local Roofing Contractor
CHEAP ROOF REPLACEMENT IS NOT THE BEST DEAL
Ever wondered how a company can offer roof replacement for so much less than another company.
This is how it is typically done:
WCC Roofing Co.: Our roof quote ($10,500) – cost to perform work ($10,000) = profit ($500)
The “cheaper” company: Their roof quote ($10,000) – cost to perform work ($7,000) = profit ($3,000)
[Read more…] about CHEAP ROOF REPLACEMENT IS NOT THE BEST DEAL
TOP 3 TIPS FOR HIRING A ROOFING CONTRACTOR
When you want to install or replace a roof, you want to be 100% sure that the roofing contractor you are hiring is qualified, competent and reliable enough to provide you the solutions you are looking for. The fact is that roofing is an inexpensive job, and it’s not something you upgrade every now and then; therefore it makes a lot of sense to curb your impulse to hire the first contractor you come in touch with, and be a little more selective with your choice.
Top 3 Tips for Hiring a Roofing Contractor
Here are the Top 3 tips for hiring a roofing contractor:
[Read more…] about TOP 3 TIPS FOR HIRING A ROOFING CONTRACTOR
HOW TO KNOW WHEN IT’S TIME TO GET A NEW ROOF
Your roof is built to be resilient and with proper care, it can last for a long time. Most of the problems can be fixed with simple repairs. However, there are times when roofing issues are serious enough to require a complete replacement. Installing a new roof can be an expensive affair and needs careful consideration before investment. At WCC Roofing Co, we don’t recommend installing a new roof unless it’s absolutely necessary.
But how do you know it’s necessary? Here are some signs that your roof might need replacing.
1 – Consider How Old your Roof is
[Read more…] about HOW TO KNOW WHEN IT’S TIME TO GET A NEW ROOF
The Perfect Gutter Protection System – It Doesn’t Exist…
These claims sound promising, but here are some facts about gutter guards that homeowners should know before choosing their gutter protection system.
The concept of protecting gutters from debris accumulation (gutter guards) is nothing new to the market. Since gutters became a “standard issue” component for most homes, the need and demand for gutter guards naturally followed. Through the years, gutter guard manufacturers have attempted to create the perfect gutter guard through numerous types of designs and ideas.
[Read more…] about The Perfect Gutter Protection System – It Doesn’t Exist…
THE TOP SIX BENEFITS OF SLATE ROOFING
Considering a slate roof for your home? Here are the top six features of a slate roof that will help you decide if slate is right for your roof!
Many homeowners have questions when it comes to picking a material to put on their roof. Slate is a unique roofing material that is often overlooked because customers are unfamiliar with its value and capabilities. Before choosing slate roof, make sure you have all your questions and concerns answered by a professional roofing contractor. Below are a few of some of the most frequently asked questions regarding slate roofing. Watch the full interview here.
What are the style and color options of slate roofing?
There are numerous slate roofing styles that range from textural and graduated installations to mixed colors and patterns.
[Read more…] about THE TOP SIX BENEFITS OF SLATE ROOFING
The Top 7 Frequently Asked Questions about Siding
How can homeowners prepare for a complete home reside?
There are a few items to address before beginning a complete reside project on your home. 1) Homeowners should remove anything from the wall on the interior of the home so that our siding team doesn’t knock anything off the wall and damage items during the removal and subsequent installation of the siding. 2) Homeowners may want to trim any overgrown shrubs to make it easier for the crew to work on the home without damaging any landscaping or shrubbery. Our siding crew will be as cautious as possible, but sometimes damage to plants is unavoidable. It is also a good idea to keep any shrubs or trees trimmed and kept a safe distance away so as not to age the home quicker than it should.
How do customers choose the color of their siding?
[Read more…] about The Top 7 Frequently Asked Questions about Siding
How to Choose a Roofing Contractor
Choosing the right contractor to install your roof is just as important as using the right materials. There are two steps in the process – finding a pool of local contractors, then evaluating them to find the perfect fit.
Step One: Finding A Roofing Contractor
If you’re looking for a durable metal roof, the Metal Roofing Alliance should be your first stop. Our Find a Contractor feature allows you to enter your zip code to find a list of local contractors.
Step Two: Evaluating Roofing Contractors
The Better Business Bureau has a terrific article with tips for choosing a reputable roofing contractor. Check it out here.
For more information on choosing a roofing material and contractor, check out this earlier post featuring an interview with Angie Hicks of Angie’s List (another good source for reviewing contractors).
TOP THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN PICKING A SHINGLE COLOR
Picking a shingle color seems simple enough, but it can typically be the most difficult decision when replacing a roof. Everyone has his or her own individual tastes and preferences, so unfortunately there isn’t a perfect formula to use when choosing your shingle color. However, here are a few tips that will offer some guidance:
- We recommend observing other homes in your area, particularly noting different combinations of exterior facades such as trim, brick, stone and/or siding. Determine those homes that you like vs. those that you do not like.
- Always get a full-size sample from the contractor. Do not make a final shingle color selection from manufacturer sales brochures or minimized samples. Some colors may not be available in your geographic area, so be sure to ask the contractor about availability.
[Read more…] about TOP THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN PICKING A SHINGLE COLOR
THREE THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE REPAIRING OR REPLACING YOUR TILE ROOF
The first factor to assess is the tile itself. Are there any broken tiles and, if so, is it an excessive amount of broken tiles? If more than 50% of the tiles are broken or cracked, then a full replacement would be recommended. To try and repair a tile roof with more than 50% breakage is not cost effective.
The second factor is the condition of the underlayment system. Older tile roofs typically have some sort organic underlayment such traditional felt paper. The thickness typically ranges from 30lb to 90lb felt paper. Roof tiles are porous and thus, not waterproof so the underlayment system is of vital importance in keeping the roof watertight. Often times we find that the underlayment system fails, while the tile itself is in good condition and has many years of useful service life remaining. In these cases, we can perform a “lift and re-lay,” where we remove the existing tile, underlayment and flashing system and then install new flashing, underlayment systems and re-install the original roof tiles. The “lift and re-lay” method can save customers money.
The third factor to consider is [Read more…] about THREE THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE REPAIRING OR REPLACING YOUR TILE ROOF
DISCOVER THE BENEFITS OF METAL ROOFS
When planning any home improvement project, especially roofing, it is vital to look at the features and benefits of every option to determine which product is the best fit for your home.
When it comes to replacing your roof, many homeowners only understand asphalt roofing and are not awareof the many benefits of a metal roof. To see if metal roofing is the right fit for your home, let’s look at some of the many benefits metal provides.
Energy Efficiency
When homeowners are asked about their home’s energy efficiency, most homeowners focus on problem areas such as windows and doors, but did you know your attic is responsible for 45% of all energy transfer in your home? [Read more…] about DISCOVER THE BENEFITS OF METAL ROOFS
5 MOST COMMON ROOFING PROBLEMS
Our partner, Angie’s List, has a great infographic here on Angie’s List, along with more information on metal roofing.
ROOF SOLUTIONS FOR PROPERTY MANAGERS
As an HOA or property manager, you’re likely faced with several difficult decisions to make regarding the upkeep and maintenance of your properties almost every day. In fact, there are probably a bunch of opinions coming at you all the time from every place you turn. You’re probably also bombarded constantly by roofing companies that encourage you to make purchases and decisions based solely on cheap or low prices. Being a property manager isn’t an easy road…it’s challenging no matter how you look at it. How do you choose the right roofing contractor to represent your interests appropriately? [Read more…] about ROOF SOLUTIONS FOR PROPERTY MANAGERS
A LITTLE ROOFING MAINTENANCE GOES A LONG WAY
Whether it’s raining or not, your roof is aging and there are things going on up there you may just not see without a closer look. Your roof is probably one of the last home improvement or maintenance projects you’re thinking about regardless of the weather happening. People generally just don’t spend too much time thinking about the roof over their head until it starts leaking and by then, it may be too late. Taking care of your roof with routine maintenance is kind of like exercise for your body and keeping in shape; it’s critical to your life (and the life of your roof!), but more often than not, it gets pushed to the side and put off.
[Read more…] about A LITTLE ROOFING MAINTENANCE GOES A LONG WAY
DO YOU NEED A NEW ROOF?
Now that we are well into 2013, have you been thinking about replacing your roof or repairing it? Do you know if your roof is in good shape or can you tell if it needs work or even complete replacement? If your roof is closing in on 15 to 20 years and showing signs of wear or disrepair, it may be time to take a closer look and see what options are available to you. Maintaining a safe, sturdy roof over your head protects the things you care about including your property, your belongings and your loved ones. Your roof is one of the biggest investments you make as a homeowner but it’s often overlooked or put off due to expense.
[Read more…] about DO YOU NEED A NEW ROOF?
Is Your Roof 15 Years or Older? Roofing Warning Signs
If your roof is 15 years or older and you think it may be showing one or more of these common roof danger signs, it could be time to consider a new roof. Remember, your roof can talk…you just need to listen.
Damaged Flashing
The flashing reinforces weak areas on your roof like where the chimney sticks out or where two parts of the roof meet in a valley. These areas are notorious for causing leaks especially if they were not properly installed. Check that the flashing on your roof looks even and lays flat. Any areas where there is a tear or buckle can allow water to enter your house.
Buckling & Curling Spots
[Read more…] about Is Your Roof 15 Years or Older? Roofing Warning Signs
WHY AREN’T YOU USING A SEAMLESS GUTTER SYSTEM?
Are you thinking about of replacing the worn out gutters on your house? You should look at the possibility of a seamless gutter installation. There are rewards to installing a seamless gutter system that you should consider before you choose to install or repair a more traditional gutter system. A seamless gutter system functions well no matter what the pitch or slope of your roof.
[Read more…] about WHY AREN’T YOU USING A SEAMLESS GUTTER SYSTEM?
BRING THE SUNLIGHT IN!
Want to Improve the Atmosphere Of a Room, Building or Home? Bring the Sunlight In!
Do you have a room in your home or building that has a dark, dreary feeling even in the middle of the day? These dark areas aren’t known for being favorite spaces due to the general atmosphere the lack of daylight produces. Your gloomy room is likely on the Northern side of the structure or shaded by big trees. Often times it can be an interior room where a traditional window to the outside world (and cheery sunlight) isn’t possible.
[Read more…] about BRING THE SUNLIGHT IN!
LOOKING TO RE-ROOF YOUR HOME? CLAY TILES ARE A BEAUTIFUL, DURABLE OPTION
The rustic look and feel of clay tile roofing is an increasingly popular choice for homeowners all over the country. Considered a “lifetime” roof, tiles are available in a huge variety of styles, profiles, colors and shapes liked curved, flat, color glazed or with a texture applied surface. The possibilities are really quite endless giving consumers a big menu to choose from when it comes to deciding what they want their roof to look like.
While this once hand-made style of roofing has been around for thousands of years, today’s interlocking or overlapping tiles are created by baking (firing) molded clay in a very high-temperature kiln. One of the most durable roofing materials on the market, tile is a green choice that doesn’t burn or rot and is known for its resistance to weather and insect damage, among other things. Dependability is the most vital component of any roof and clay tile is sitting near the top of the list when it comes to extreme durability.
[Read more…] about LOOKING TO RE-ROOF YOUR HOME? CLAY TILES ARE A BEAUTIFUL, DURABLE OPTION
CONSIDERING REPLACEMENT WINDOWS? THREE REASONS TO REPLACE YOUR OLD WINDOWS.
With so many home improvement options available, read on for three great reasons to choose replacement windows for your home!
Replacement Windows Will Save You Money
Older single-pane windows are not energy efficient. They do not hold in either heat or cold and they let an enormous amount of outdoor air into the interior of your home. The U.S. Department of Energy indicates that 40% of your annual heating and cooling bill can be affected by your windows. Double-pane vinyl replacement windows are much more energy efficient and can save you hundreds of dollars each year in energy costs.
Additionally, single-pane windows have a tendency to allow moisture and condensation to build up on the inside of the window and the frame. This moisture can seep into your walls and cause mold, mildew and wall damage. Double-pane replacement windows keep moisture out and won’t leak, preventing any interior damage that can be costly to repair. Plus, many utility companies offer rebates and energy incentives to customers who replace old inefficient windows with energy efficient replacement windows.
Replacement Windows Mean a More Comfortable Home
[Read more…] about CONSIDERING REPLACEMENT WINDOWS? THREE REASONS TO REPLACE YOUR OLD WINDOWS.
ROOFING MATERIAL: FIVE CHOICES FOR YOUR NEW AND IMPROVED ROOF
With the variety of roofing materials available these days, here are five options to help make choosing the right one for your roofing project a little easier.
- Roofing Material: Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material seen on American homes these days. They are an inexpensive roofing option and they come in a variety of colors. They are generally guaranteed for 20 to 30 years and require no maintenance. The drawback is that this roofing material is so common your roof won’t stand out from the crowd, however the asphalt shingles have great value in their durability and ease of installation. You can choose from the standard 3-tab shingles or upgrade to a thicker architectural shingle. Ask your contractor for samples of each to determine which type of asphalt shingle is the roofing material best suited for your residential roofing project.
- Roofing Material: Wood Shingles
[Read more…] about ROOFING MATERIAL: FIVE CHOICES FOR YOUR NEW AND IMPROVED ROOF
HOW TO ENSURE PROPER ROOF VENTILATION IN YOUR ATTIC
It is very important to ensure proper ventilation in your attic so that your home is comfortable during all seasons. The free flow of fresh air through the roof is essential for the maintenance of the right temperature in your home. Proper roof ventilation ensures that your home is warm in the cold seasons, saving you many expenses. If you want to make sure your attic is well ventilated through the roof read this article to learn why and how to do it properly.
A roof that is well ventilated will last longer than improperly or non-ventilated roof and attic. The lack of ventilation or the improper one can lead to mildew and mold, which are created by the humidity and warm air. [Read more…] about HOW TO ENSURE PROPER ROOF VENTILATION IN YOUR ATTIC
IS YOUR ROOF LEAKING? DON’T WAIT UNTIL IT’S TOO LATE!!!!!
Most of us are guilty of taking the roof over our head for granted at one time or another; we just don’t tend to think about it until it stops working or it starts leaking, that is. And when your roof is leaking, you just can’t ignore it or put it off for another day. The simple fact of the matter is, by the time your roof is actually leaking, the problems lurking around your home may already be a serious issue. That leak can cause all sorts of nasty things for you including damaged ceilings, water stains, rot, mold and structural damage just to name a few.
A roof can leak for a number of reasons — from storm damage to shingle decay to age and everything in between. If your roof is leaking, don’t wait until it’s too late. Contact a reputable, insured roofing company to inspect the issues, find the source of your leak and have it properly and promptly repaired. Acting quickly if you find a leak can save you thousands of dollars and a whole lot of misery.
Seven Reasons Your Roof May Be Leaking
[Read more…] about IS YOUR ROOF LEAKING? DON’T WAIT UNTIL IT’S TOO LATE!!!!!
WHY YOU SHOULD HAVE A HOME AND ROOF INSPECTED BEFORE PURCHASE
To hear professional home inspectors tell it, Americans take better care of their automobiles than their homes. Consequently, every home buyer should plan to spend the $400 to $600 necessary to have the house they like best thoroughly examined by an independent third party.
But before you order an inspection, you should do some preliminary investigating of your own. That way, you can protect against picking the wrong house and allowing a better-maintained property to slip away.
Even rookie buyers can get a good idea of just how well a house has been kept. [Read more…] about WHY YOU SHOULD HAVE A HOME AND ROOF INSPECTED BEFORE PURCHASE
COMMON ROOFING QUESTIONS
- I did some repairs to my roof and noticed there is no roofing felt under them. Is this the correct way to install shingles?
A. No, it is not. Unless it’s an overlay (recover), there should be felt underlayment separating the roofing materials and the deck. Many home builders install roofs this way so that they can save money. It is frowned upon by the National Roofing Contractors Association, the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturer’s Association, and any roofer with integrity.
YOUR HOME IS NOT A SUBMARINE
I have said it before; your home is not a submarine… and even subs leak!
Fiberglass – asphalt and other types of roof shingles, such as tiles, shakes, slate, are not water proof. They are designed to shed water on a pitched or sloped surface. Steeper surfaces shed water faster and dry faster.
You can’t put shingles on a pitch lower than 2 in 12″ [roof rises 2″ in 12″]. We do not recommend it on slopes below a 4-12 pitch without special conditions. [Read more…] about YOUR HOME IS NOT A SUBMARINE
VENTILATION REQUIREMENTS FOR YOUR ROOF
When you install a new roof on your existing home or business or when you are building a new structure, (which will have a roof on it), it’s a good time to brush up on ventilation requirements.
Over the years ventilation knowledge and technology have changed. I have been in old buildings and residential homes which have no vents at all. I have also seen 10 year old homes with improper or insufficient ventilation. Proper ventilation will provide you with an attic that is not too hot or moist which can cause problems. Bad ventilation can allow mold, condensation, wood rot, shortened shingle roof life, higher energy bills, etc. [Read more…] about VENTILATION REQUIREMENTS FOR YOUR ROOF
ROOF INSULATION
Insulation is a pretty popular word in all types of construction because it is required by building codes and it can cost and / or save an owner big money, especially over time. On flat and low slope roofs it must be considered closely in new construction and in roof replacement situations.
Your building code will dictate how much insulation you need when you build something new and sometimes may dictate what to use when you are reroofing. An important thing to know is that when putting on a new roof, it is a good time to evaluate how your home, office or church is doing in the insulation department.
[Read more…] about ROOF INSULATION
ABOUT EPDM RUBBER ROOFING
Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer rubber is better known as EPDM rubber, and for many years it has been a leading type of single-ply roofing membrane. It is also used in many other applications. The appropriate use for EPDM rubber is on flat or low-slope roofs.
Most rubber roofs are black, but it does come in white to reflect the sun. White EPDM rubber membrane roofing costs a little more than black. This roof system can be mechanically attached or fully adhered and comes in reinforced and non-reinforced. There is also a less common ballasted roof system. Reinforced is used for mechanically attached, and non-reinforced is used for fully-adhered systems. Ask your roofer which one makes the most sense for your roof. [Read more…] about ABOUT EPDM RUBBER ROOFING
ASPHALT ARCHITECTURAL SHINGLES/WHY THEY ARE THE ROOFING INDUSTRY “WORK HORSE”.
Most of us know what an asphalt shingle roof is. It is an asphalt steep slope residential and commercial roof covering. You see them on most homes and on many commercial buildings. They have always been popular because they are cost effective, perform well, and they last 20 plus years. Because of these reasons they are right now the steep slope roof work horse. In other words, they are driving the market in Hampton Roads and The Outer Banks of North Carolina. [Read more…] about ASPHALT ARCHITECTURAL SHINGLES/WHY THEY ARE THE ROOFING INDUSTRY “WORK HORSE”.
WHY IS PROPER ROOF VENTILATION SO IMPORTANT?
What is the purpose of roof ventilation?
The simple answer is to let the heat out of your attic, but that’s not the whole story. An effective ventilation system (notice I said system there. I’ll explain later…) reduces the amount of heat in the summer and moisture in the winter in your attic space. It helps to make your heating and cooling systems more efficient. This, in effect, helps increase the life of your roof too.
Now let’s talk about the “system”. [Read more…] about WHY IS PROPER ROOF VENTILATION SO IMPORTANT?
UNDERSTANDING THE SURFACE OF YOUR ROOF
Many people don’t realize how harsh of an environment the surface of a roof can be. In the heat of summer, temperatures can climb up to 150° or more. Some materials, such as slate, can actually become too hot to even touch. Likewise, in the brutally cold winter, a roof surface temperature can drop below freezing. Significant weather variations can be tough on your roof!
In addition to the extreme temperatures in a given season, the surface must also withstand all forms of precipitation, including wind, rain, ice, snow, sleet and hail. During hurricane season especially, sometimes a combination of these elements can cause significant damage. [Read more…] about UNDERSTANDING THE SURFACE OF YOUR ROOF
A FEW THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN REPLACING YOUR RESIDENTIAL ROOF
There are many factors that can determine when and how you replace your residential roof. Here are a few things to consider if you think it may be time to replace your roof:
Geographic Location
Do you live by the water or in an open field? Is your property located in area that regularly experiences high winds? If so, you may want to consider higher grade materials for your roof, in lieu of basic 3-tab shingles. If you live by the ocean, salt water is also a factor, as it can affect metal, so if metal is used you should consult with your estimator on recommended options.
Budget
If money is an object, the most popular, economical choice for a residential reroof is an architectural style shingle. [Read more…] about A FEW THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN REPLACING YOUR RESIDENTIAL ROOF
TPO FOR COMMERCIAL ROOFS
TPO, or Thermoplastic Polyolefin, is a synthetic rubber compound that is one of the most popular roofing solutions for commercial buildings today.
There are many notable advantages to installing a TPO system on a commercial building. For one, TPO can be fused to create a highly reliable, long-lasting seam. In addition to its strength, it is a heat-reflective, energy efficient material that was created to withstand the effects of ozone, chemical, and ultraviolet exposure. The materials’ ability to endure these types of effects is what makes it such a cost effective option. [Read more…] about TPO FOR COMMERCIAL ROOFS
THE FACTS ABOUT SUMMER
We hope that you are enjoying a great summer. We have noted how quickly it is flying by. To help “preserve” the joy of these last remaining weeks a bit, we wanted to break from our normal subjects of home improvement, roofing, and energy efficiency and bring you a few “Surprising Facts” about summer.
Maybe, if you have any remaining summertime gatherings with friends and family, you can amaze them with your knowledge of summer trivia. Or, better yet, just forward this email to them if you think they may want to share in these snippets of summer goodness
- The “Dog Days of Summer” are named after the Dog Star (Sirius) and officially began with the first sighting of Sirius at sunrise. [Read more…] about THE FACTS ABOUT SUMMER
Preparing For Your Residential Shingle Roof Installation
The day has finally arrived…the day of your new roof installation. You have selected your roofing material, chosen a color, and reviewed the scope of work to be performed. What can you do to prepare and what should you know about the roof installation process?
The process of installing a new roof creates a construction site at your home. There are several steps that should be taken to ensure that you, your family and your hope are prepared for the new installation. [Read more…] about Preparing For Your Residential Shingle Roof Installation
NEVER HAVE TO DEAL WITH A ROOFER AGAIN
In one of our recent posts, we really broke free from the construction and home maintenance arena and brought you two delicious summertime (and energy efficient!) recipes. Thank you for the favorable comments we received as a result. This month, we want to return to construction materials by talking some about how construction materials have changed over the years.
No one likes the idea of doing any sort of home maintenance and perhaps their least favorite is dealing with roofing problems and roofing contractors. It simply isn’t something that we look forward to, is it? Have you ever wondered how you, as a homeowner, can capitalize on advances in building material technology and never have to deal with a roofer again? [Read more…] about NEVER HAVE TO DEAL WITH A ROOFER AGAIN
STORM DAMAGE. HAS IT HIT YOUR HOME?
Severe storms in recent weeks in many areas of the country have left roofs with storm damage by wind and hail. Homeowners who felt that they had years of service left in their roofs are frustrated as they face insurance claims and extensive repairs or replacement. Furthermore, even if repairs are possible, the damages have jeopardized the future life expectancies of their roofs.
Violent weather patterns seem to be increasing in the United States. A growing number of homeowners are thinking about their roofs and looking for roofing options that are not prone to damage from wind, hail, snow, and ice. As a result, the fastest growing segment of the residential roofing industry has been metal roofing. Metal has seen its market share more than quadruple over the past decade. [Read more…] about STORM DAMAGE. HAS IT HIT YOUR HOME?
GOING GREEN
Here in Missouri and Illinois, we seem to have gone from winter to summer almost overnight. Yet we have friends in the plains states that still seem to be stuck in winter. Even for them, though, summer will be here soon, and summer is always the perfect time to have some fun but also to make things happen.
We wanted to share some ideas with you this month from earthdaycentral.com where they always have great advice on going green to make our lives friendlier to the environment with which we’ve been blessed. Following are some of their wise steps to improve your level of “green”.
Evaluate Your Life
What are your normal practices? [Read more…] about GOING GREEN
STANDING SEAM METAL ROOFS & SHINGLES
Our website visitors most often navigate to our metal roofing page. Our website analytics make that clear. Ultimately, our desire is to help homeowners choose a product that is appropriate for their home while also meeting the criteria they’d like to accomplish with their next roof. Sometimes that is standing seam. Sometimes it is one of our metal shingles. In the end, if they received the right product for them and for their home, that is all we care about.
Standing seam metal roofing is very popular right now. It is the most commonly available type of metal roofing and, once homeowners begin to do their research into metal roofing, they quickly find a variety of standing seam products. They may like its looks, or maybe they find it looks too commercial, industrial, or even agricultural for their neighborhood. [Read more…] about STANDING SEAM METAL ROOFS & SHINGLES
TINY HOUSE ROOFING
Builders of tiny houses are considering metal roofing as the best option. Metal roofing’s benefits of low weight, high-end beauty, wind resistance, fire safety, and reflective energy efficiency all blend very well with the goals and desires of owners of tiny homes, or any energy efficient home, in general.
We have recently worked with a couple of such projects, and even had the opportunity to visit one tiny house under construction. What a great concept that brings one back to simpler times and the necessities of life! Managing a smaller home must free one up for greater enjoyment in other areas of life. As one owner told us, his hope is to spend more time utilizing public spaces such as parks once he is in his new tiny home. [Read more…] about TINY HOUSE ROOFING
WHAT’S BEING GOOGLED ABOUT ROOFING?
Before you invest a good amount of time searching for answers pertaining to roofing, roofing installation and roof repairs, you should check out this post. Our roofing experts have put together a number of questions that are actually being searched using Google. We hope it saves you time and assists you in your roofing research.
- How do I know if it’s time for a new roof? And, what are the benefits of a metal roof over a shingle roof?
- Typically if you notice an excessive amount of granules around the downspouts of the house you can assume your shingles are starting to deteriorate. Of course, if you notice stains on the ceiling from potential leaks it’s time to call a professional like WCC Roofing Co. Ignoring these symptoms is dangerous and can lead to costly repairs. [Read more…] about WHAT’S BEING GOOGLED ABOUT ROOFING?
SHOULD WE ADD A DAY TO MARCH?
Isn’t it hard to believe that it’s already March? The year is going by so quickly! And, for many areas of the country, it’s been a difficult year weather-wise. While we may dream of sunny and warm spring days, the reality is cold, windy, snowy, and icy for many of us. But, spring will eventually arrive and, when it does, many homeowners will find that the unusually severe winter has taken an abusive toll on their home’s roof.
Spend part of a March day looking at your roof
So, what are the signs that your roof may need to be replaced? Look for missing or badly curled shingles, flashings that have been pushed out of place by ice, granules that have been drug off by snow, and sealants that have cracked or broken loose in the cold. All of these things will indicate the need for maintenance and possibly even replacement of your roof. And, if you’ve experienced ice dams this winter, you will likely find that your roof is far more prone to leaks in the future. [Read more…] about SHOULD WE ADD A DAY TO MARCH?
It’s Springtime……..Almost!
What a wonderful feeling! It’s almost Springtime here is St. Louis, MO and we hope it is where you are, too! It was a rough winter in much of North America. If you’re like us, you have plenty of outside projects and fun activities just waiting to happen. We’re hearing from most of our Project Managers that they are very busy and building considerable backlogs. So, if a new roof might be in your future for this year, we suggest acting sooner rather than later.
Our subject line promised something tasty. Last summer, in one of our most popular and forwarded e-newsletters ever, we shared a couple of great summer recipes. We figured we would start off this spring with a recipe as well that is as tasty as it is fun to prepare.
SOY-MARINATED PORK SANDWICHES
This recipe is good for four great tasting sandwiches but can be adjusted for a larger quantity.
Marinate 12 ounces of very thinly sliced pork tenderloin in the following for 15 minutes at room temperature: [Read more…] about It’s Springtime……..Almost!
HAILSTORMS
Oftentimes, we bring you information that is not necessarily related to roofing but will make your life and home more efficient, comfortable, and enjoyable. Because we have heard from so many of you that you are planning roofing projects in 2015, we want to talk about roofing. In particular, we want to discuss an enemy of roofing – hail.
With thousands of hail storms hitting the US every year, hail can be very damaging.
• Our warranty includes the paint finish to not be damaged by hail and the product to not leak due to hail damage. This is important because, after severe storms, [Read more…] about HAILSTORMS
Top Six Things To Look For In A New Metal Roof
We hope that this finds you well and enjoying a good winter. We’ve been very busy, and it looks like this will be yet another record-breaking year for the residential metal roofing industry. If you’re shopping for a metal roof, we have put together the following “Top Six” list of things to look for in your metal roof. Not all metal roofs offer these features, but we think you will agree they are very important. [Read more…] about Top Six Things To Look For In A New Metal Roof
Are Metal Shingles Right For My Home?
Metal roofing on homes is rapidly gaining popularity. In fact, it’s one of the fastest growing segments of the home improvement industry. Many homeowners, though, are searching for something different than traditional metal roofing, so they end up investigating metal shingle roofing. “Are metal shingles right for my home?” is a frequent question we are asked.
Metal shingles come in a variety of styles. There are products that closely resemble asphalt shingles, wood shakes, wood shingles, slate, and even tile. [Read more…] about Are Metal Shingles Right For My Home?
What Do You Love Most About Your Home?
Dear Friends,
February is the month of love. Even though we’re in the construction industry, we at WCC ROOFING are wondering one thing this month: What do you love about your home? We all transform our homes into personal sanctuaries … places where we find comfort, security, safety, and the love of our families. But what is the one thing that you love most about your home?
Is it that ancient oak tree in the backyard? [Read more…] about What Do You Love Most About Your Home?
Secret Ways To Find A Good Contractor
Whether it’s for roofing, siding, windows, that new kitchen, or something else, choosing a contractor is never easy. Looking at reviews and talking to past customers are always good things to do. However, this month we’re sharing some “secret ways” to determine whether a contractor is a good choice.
Please consider the following when talking to potential contractors for your home:
- Does their demeanor indicate that they are there to benefit you by solving your problems, or that they are there to benefit themselves by getting the contract?
- Have they shown as much willingness to invest in you as they are asking you to invest in them?
Did Your Roof Survive The Winter?
Your home’s roof provides its primary defense against the elements. For that reason, it makes sense to have your roof be in good condition and performing like it should be. Unfortunately, a harsh winter like the one we have just been through, can take a real toll on roofing materials. In some areas of the country, roofs were subjected to ice, snow, and prolonged cold like they have never before been subjected to.
So, how do you know whether the winter weather was damaging to your roof? We have several suggestions: [Read more…] about Did Your Roof Survive The Winter?
Keep The Home Fires Burning
Does it surprise you that it is January already? It surprises us a bit. We have so enjoyed hearing from and working with thousands of homeowners this year that made decisions to make long-term investments in their homes with beautiful, worry-free, energy-efficient roofing systems. Given how roofing costs increase year after year, these homeowners are looking forward to no longer being in the cycle of buying a new roof every 25 – 50 years.
Fact is, our homes are important to us. And, as we approach the winter months, our homes take on even more meaning, as we will be spending more time inside enjoying the comforts we have created within. [Read more…] about Keep The Home Fires Burning