Is your roof going to waste? Is it just sitting there, covered in TV antennas, leaves and old footballs? It doesn’t have to be. You can alter your roof to aid the environment. Why settle for a roof that just covers your living space? Make your roof a dynamic part of your New Hanover home. Here are four ways.
1.Skylights Skylights are a great way to reduce your New Hanover electric bills. Installing skylights or solar tubes in your roof, can help you save money. It will decrease your need for electric lighting during the day. It will also bring in natural light which is good for your mental health.
2.Paint Your Roof White By painting your roof white, you can deflect light and heat away from your roof. Not only will it help you cool your New Hanover home, it will also help control climate change. According to the physicist, Hashem Akbari, a 1,000 sq-ft roof, painted white, can offset 10 metric tons of CO2.
3.Plant a Rooftop Garden Putting a garden on your New Hanover rooftop is a great way reduce urban heat islands. Did you know that it can also reduce the temperature of the garden-topped building by up to 15 degrees? Growing plants and trees in the city can also contribute to the overall air quality by eliminating carbon dioxide. That’s great news for all us oxygen-breathers.
4.Mount Some Solar Panels Why not turn your roof into a power plant by installing solar panels on your roof and hooking them into your grid. You can generate some clean energy for your New Hanover home. It’s expensive at first, but it can save you money in the long run. Your New Hanover roofing contractor can further inform you as to the benefits of having solar panels installed.
If you are looking for a professional North Carolina roofing contractor , then please call us today at 1-888-DRY-CLUB or complete our online request form.
When you are ready to embark on a roof replacement for your Brunswick County home you should always prepare a list of questions to ask your Brunswick County roofing contractor before your scheduled appointments. There are many different styles of roofing materials, so you should take some time, and look online for the roofing type you want on your home.
What Are The Questions To Ask The Roofing Contractor?
- What Type Of Roofing Materials Do You Sell?
- What Type Of Insurance Do You Have?
- Do You Have Any References?
- How Many People Will Be On The Crew?
- How Long Have You Been In Business?
- How Long Will This Roof Installation Take?
- What Is Your Workmanship Guarantee?
- Does My Home Need Additional Ventilation?
What Are The Different Roofing Types?
There are several roofing materials from asphalt roofing, steel or metal roofing, ceramic roofing, and single ply rubber roofing. Most Brunswick County homes have either asphalt or metal roofing panels as the roofing products, and on the flat roofs like dormers single ply rubber is also used. In tropical or different regions ceramic or terracotta roofing materials which can be used. All of these products are great for waterproofing, and are very easy to find information about online.
What Roofing Materials Are Best?
In different parts of the country, roofing materials will change because of weather conditions. In Maine people use a lot of steel roofs because of the heavy snow fall. In Florida the choice of roofing is tile because of the heat, and asphalt shingles are used all over the country. There are also special asphalt roofing shingles for high winds along the coast, and flat line wind storms like in North Dakota and surrounding areas.
What Insurance Is Required For Roofers?
As you can understand, roofing is a very dangerous job, and not all liability insurance is the same. Roofing liability insurance is usually about 200 percent more than basic carpenter liability insurance, and excludes roofing completely. I have seen many insurance binders over the years from roofer who has only purchased basic carpenter type liability insurance, and when a problem occurs the homeowner will not be protected or covered under this type of policy. As a Brunswick County homeowner, you need to have the insurance company send you a copy in the mail with your name on the binder, and make sure that the policy includes roofing.
The next insurance that your Brunswick County roofing contractor should have is workman’s compensation insurance, and this is where you could lose your home if someone is killed or seriously injured. In most homeowners insurance policy’s it is clearly stated, that anyone you hire to perform work on said property must have workman’s compensation insurance. And you are responsible to make sure that they have this workman’s compensation insurance before you hire them to start the work on your home.
What Should I Need For Ventilation?
The reason a home should have ventilation is to remove the moisture from the home. Prove fact is that each person in the home permeates about 3 gallons of water a day. From showers, to cooking, and breathing water vapor is created and need to be able to leave the property. One of the largest reasons is to allow the attic to breath, and remove all the excess heat from the attic. Roofing manufactures want the attic to be the same temperature as the outside at all times. This adds life to the roofing materials but also helps you save money on your heating, and cooling cost.
How Many Estimates Should I Get?
You should get at least 3 roofing estimate from reputable Brunswick County roofing contractors to ensure the size of the roof, and compare the roofing materials, and pricing. Caution, do not only make your decision on the price, and you as the home owner must assume some of the responsibility if you insist the contractor lowers his price in which he cannot possibly by the materials, and supply the necessary labor to complete the job correctly. To do the job right the roofing contractor will need to pay for the materials and insurance then hire qualified installers to effectively complete the roofing work. Plus the roofing contractor will need to pay for his tools, equipment, and his vehicles plus additional over-head to manage the job correctly.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_Deschaine
So if you are looking for a professional North Carolina roof replacement contractor then please call us today at 1-888-DRY-CLUB or complete our online request form.
Like many systems in your Brunswick County home, no one thinks about the roof until something goes wrong. Usually, the first sign of roof issues is a stain on the ceiling. Believe it or not, that is a good thing. Think of it like the check engine light in you car telling you that there is something that needs to be addressed.
In other cases, the water follows the path of least resistance, showing little or no staining until there is a sudden blooming of mold on the walls.
Irrespective, once you know you have a roof problem, you have three way to address it; your Brunswick County roofing contractor can perform a roofing inspection to determine which option is appropriate for your roof.
- Repair the roof
- Restore the roof
- Replace the roof
Repair the roof- This is your least costly alternative. Unless the entire roof is failing, most leaks can be traced back to a point of origin. Depending on the size of the leak and the amount of damage, there are multiple ways in which to make a repair that range from invisible to ugly. A repair is an identifiable point of water intrusion that can be fixed. This does not guarantee that your roof will stop leaking, just that a single point won’t. Keep in mind that in some cases shingles will have to be replaced and it is next to impossible to match new shingles with the ones on your Brunswick County roof that have been exposed to the elements for years.
Restore the roof- Some roofs not only have leaks but the shingles are losing the aggregate (sandy stuff) that protects the body of the shingle. This type of roof should be replaced but sometimes you need time to acquire the funds for a roof replacement. With modern sealants the entire surface of the roof can be protected from further degradation. A roof restoration can extend the life of an older roof from 1-5 years and is less than ½ the cost of a roof replacement. It is not always possible to restore a roof and each one must be addressed on a case by case basis but when it can be done it gives the roof a sheen and a much newer appearance.
Replace the roof- Most expensive but most effective. This involves stripping the entire Brunswick County roof, nailing the roof deck to current code and installing a heavy felt and dimensional shingles. This should also include a wind mitigation inspection that will lower you insurance costs. Installed and vented correctly, a new roof will protect your structure for years to come.
Your business and personal objectives will define your choice but you should have as many options available as possible.
The same choices apply for flat or sloped roofs.
Not only does your roof act as a deterrent to moisture intrusion, it is also an important element in regulating the interior temperature and comfort of your Brunswick County home. A roof with the proper elements can save you thousands on energy bills as well as extend it’s own life.
So if you are looking for a professional North Carolina metal roofer then please call us today at 1-888-DRY-CLUB or complete our online request form.
Top 5 metal roofing myths for your reading pleasure!
It is truly fascinating how many people are clueless when it comes to the basic understanding of metal roofing. Not too long ago, I myself had the old rusty barn roof image in my mind. But now, after having been involved with metal roofing for 6 years I have developed a true appreciation for this roofing technology, and I would like to share some of the insights with you.
After reading these tips you will gain a better understanding, and appreciation of metal roofing technology.
Myth 1: Metal roof has a higher risk of getting struck by a lightning. Reality; No, metal roofing does not increase the chances of your Brunswick County home getting struck by a lightning. In fact, if your house does get struck, a metal roof will help to dissipate the charge, and because metal is a non combustible material, your roof will not catch fire.
Myth 2: Metal roof makes a lot of noise when it rains.
Reality; You are probably thinking about that old cheap metal roof over the barn that used to sound like a machine gun burst when it is raining… Modern metal roofing is usually installed over a plywood, solid sheathing, or over your existing Brunswick County roof. It will make no more noise than a regular asphalt shingle roof. Oftentimes a metal roof will be quieter than a non metal roof, and will shield the noise from rain and bad weather.
Myth 3: Metal roofing costs a lot of money.
Reality; It may seem like it does, but it really does not! You may be surprised, but metal roofing will actually costs less than the asphalt shingle roof if you stay in your Brunswick County home long enough. Not only will it increase the value of your house, but it will also help you save money on cooling costs. Metal roofing can result in up to 50% savings in energy costs during summer months. And finally, a metal roof may well be the last roof you will ever have to install on your house. Ever! Provided you get a quality installation from a qualified Brunswick County roofing contractor.
Myth 4: Metal Roof is susceptible to rust.
Reality; Modern metal roofing is built to last for decades. Steel metal roofing has a metal coating protection layer made with zinc or aluminum, which is bonded to the steel and then painted with a high quality paint designed to withstand the toughest abuse from bad weather, and provide the desirable color and looks that Brunswick County homeowners want.
Myth 5: Metal Roof is susceptible to dents.
Reality; Modern metal roofs are built to withstand years of abuse from severe weather such as hail, extreme winds, and snow. Hail will not dent a metal roof, and extremely high winds are not a threat either, as many modern metal roofing systems are rated for 120mph winds. In fact, metal roofs perform extremely well in the hurricane. It is not unusual to see the metal roof with no damage, next to naked regular roofs that have lost all their shingles and plywood in hurricane.
Bonus Myth: You cannot walk on metal roof without damaging it.
Reality; While you should definitely take all the necessary precautions before venturing out for a walk on your Brunswick County roof, metal roofs are completely walkable. I would recommend using running shoes because they will provide good traction for your feet when on the roof. Avoid walking on your roof when its raining, as you could easily slip and fall. Rule of thumb is to stay of the roof whenever its surface is wet. Contact your Brunswick County roofing contractor for special techniques on how to walk on the metal roof they have installed.
So if you are looking for a professional North Carolina metal roofer then please call us today at 1-888-DRY-CLUB or complete our online request form.
Owning a Wilmington home comes with its own maintenance list. Some jobs are small and others are ones that we would rather do without. Rain gutter cleaning is one of those chores that is required, but does not rank high on the fun meter.
A home’s gutter system is an intricate network that keeps the foundation safe and intact. Without it there is a myriad of complications that can arise – all of which can lead to costly repairs. That’s why it is vitally important to insure that the gutter system is free of debris.
It is necessary to keep the gutters free of leaves at least once a year. Late winter or early spring is the best time since you have accumulated all of the leaves from fall. You will certainly want to clean your gutters before the rains start in Wilmington. Try to clean them out any earlier than the last drop of leaves and you will just have to repeat the process. If you happen to have a lot of trees over or next to your Wilmington home, it may be necessary to clean them out twice per year.
To properly complete the rain gutter cleaning task, you will need a tall ladder, an old broom or mop handle and some basic tools. A hand broom, similar to one for brushing out a fireplace, will be useful for brushing the leaves together. Use the broom or mop handle to push debris down the gutters towards the bottom. You may have to take a hose with a strong spray nozzle and use the water in a jet stream to finish pushing them all the way down. You should be able to tell when they are clear by looking down inside and seeing daylight from the bottom hole.
Alternatively you could use the scoop method of lifting leaves and debris out of your system. Try pushing it all to one spot with the broom handle or water jet and then use a simple trowel to lift out the leaves. Depending upon the size of your gutters, a small hand spade may do the trick. One benefit of this method is being able to toss the debris and leaves into a catch-all that you can easily move to your compost bin or Wilmington garden as mulch. However, you will have to be careful not to damage your gutters.
The tools are for minor repairs that you find during your rain gutter cleaning efforts. There will undoubtedly be some loose connections here and there that you can tighten. Better to do it while you are up there than to have to make another trip. While doing your rain gutter cleaning do some inspection of the gutters for shingle debris. If there are a lot of flakes that resemble small, black gravel from the shingles then you may want to have your Wilmington roofing contractor come out to inspect your roof as well.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=S._Dinkins
So if you are looking for a professional North Carolina metal roofer then please call us today at 1-888-DRY-CLUB or complete our online request form.
Here is the scenario that many Brunswick County homeowners have experienced: The roof is leaking; it’s been on for 12 years and this isn’t the first time you’ve dealt with it leaking. The question going through your head is: Should I repair or replace my roof?
There are several points to consider when trying to make this decision, and keep in mind that no two roofs are the same. So while there are general guidelines you can follow to help you decide, keep in mind that you know your roof the best and you know whether there are other considerations that you should keep in mind. your Brunswick County roofing contractor can also advise on whether a roof repair or roof replacement is your best alternative,
Special Considerations:
o If more then 30 percent of the entire roof is damaged, or if there is extensive moisture damage to either the existing roofing layer or the structural deck, you should consider replacing the entire roof.
o If your roof damage occurred as a result of a storm such as a tornado or hurricane, then you should certainly consider replacing the entire roof. In these situations, there are is often damage that you cannot see and it’s important to go ahead and replace the roof. Safety for you and your family is the most important factor.
o Is there a pre- existing condition on your roof that would make it beneficial to go with a full roof replacement?
Consider replacement if:
o You think your roof has a faulty design
o Improper material was used while constructing the roof
o There were past problems with mold or algae growth
Factors to consider:
o Interior Walls- Two sure signs of major need for roof repair are if the walls and ceilings in your Brunswick County home have moisture marks and if the paint on your walls and ceilings are peeling.
o Torn or Missing Shingles- Torn or missing shingles could be caused by many variables from heavy sun to tree branches being improperly removed from the roof. Sometimes torn or missing shingles are a sign of a simple roof repair but there are times that it is the clue that there are more serious roof issues. It’s always important to consult with a skilled Brunswick County roofing contractor who can help you determine the severity of the problem.
o Roof Layers- If you have more than 3 layers on your roof and are again experiencing problems then it’s time to replace.
o Roof Age- If you have an asphalt shingled roof of good quality material and installation than it should last between 15-20 years. If your roof is over 12 years and experiencing roof leaks associated with other roofing problems then you should seriously consider replacement.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Marcy_Tate
So if you are looking for a professional North Carolina roof replacement contractor then please call us today at 1-888-DRY-CLUB or complete our online request form.
Home owners don’t always realize their options when it comes to roofing. Most have to have their roof done again and again because they aren’t aware of their options. They don’t know about North Carolina metal roofing. North Carolina metal roofing is one of the best roofing choices you can make. It is weather resistant and one of the most durable roofing materials available.
North Carolina Metal Roofing Is Your Best Choice
The roofing materials that have the highest ratings for fire, wind and impact resistance are copper metal and corrugated metal. These types of roofing can last three times longer than asphalt roofing in extreme weather.
There are many other advantages to metal roofing as well.
It’s reflective of the sun so you’ll be able to save on cooling during the summer. It also keeps your house insulated in the winter to keep the heat in and cut down cost on heating. It is completely energy efficient. Attic temperatures won’t climb as high, there will be no animals on the roof and the materials will never deteriorate.
Lightning will not be able to set your house on fire. Due to the nature of the make up of the material, your house will be safe from lightning. The chances of your home getting struck by lightning are not increased just because you have a North Carolina metal roof, but if Lightning does strike you will be safe because the metal will absorb the energy and also protect your house from catching fire.
North Carolina Metal Roofing Will Not Rust
This product will not rust. North Carolina metal roofing has a metallic coating made of zinc and aluminum. They make sure that it doesn’t have the risk of getting rusted. It is completely durable. It in fact, is durable enough to walk on it in most cases.
North Carolina Metal Roofing Is Quiet
North Carolina metal roofing helps keep your home quiet. It seems like it would be louder but surprisingly it is solid enough to keep noise out during bad weather.
North Carolina Metal Roofing Will Stand The Test Of Time
A roof made of metal materials can last a lifetime. So instead of buying your shingles slate or other roofing materials over and over, you can have your roof done once. Regular roofing needs to be redone every 17 years on average. North Carolina metal roofing lasts three times longer so a roof will not have to be done for around 50 years. It can also lower your insurance by 35%.
North Carolina Metal Roofing Has A Very Long Warranty
If you are worried about the warranty, stop. The warranties come with an average of a 30 to 50 year warranty for manufacturer, and also workmanship warranty from the company that installs it.
As you can see, there are many benefits to North Carolina metal roofing. Contact your local North Carolina metal roofing expert and tell them you want metal roofing for your house.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6426251
So if you are looking for a professional North Carolina metal roofer then please call us today at 1-888-DRY-CLUB or complete our online request form.
Looking for a way to reduce your energy consumption in your home or business? Consider solar (photovoltaic) shingles. A relatively new green product, photovoltaic shingles are electricity-generating solar shingles that can be an excellent option for both new construction and homes in need of a roof replacement or upgrade.
St. James solar shingles give a home or business the ability to independently generate electricity directly from the sun when needed, reducing your energy bill in the process.
Solar photovoltaic shingles are solar cells designed to look like conventional asphalt shingles. There are several varieties of St. James solar shingles currently available on the market.
- There are shingle-sized solid panels that replace current shingles in a row. In this sense, they will look similar to the current shingles on your roof.
- There are also photovoltaic shingles that are more solid design characteristics. These tend to contain a number of silicon solar cells and look more like traditional shingles.
- Finally, there are newer systems of St. James solar shingles. They use thin film solar cell technologies and are similar to regular shingles in terms of both size and flexibility.
How Photovoltaic Shingles Work
Adding photovoltaic shingles to your roof can be completed in a similar process as getting a new roof. Both solar panels and a roof can be installed at the same time when photovoltaic cells are integrated into the roofs construction, which saves time and Installation costs.
Photovoltaic cells convert energy from light into electricity. Therefore, these cells create electricity by absorbing photons and releasing electrons. The more St. James solar shingles that are linked together in the system, the greater capacity they have to produce more energy.
On average, each shingle can produce up to 50 watts of electricity. This adds up to a considerable amount of energy generation if your whole roof was covered with these shingles.
Once in place, the sun’s rays act as a bonding agent between the shingles and help to form a weather resistant seal on the roof that can withstand poor weather and high winds.
Benefits of Photovoltaic Shingles
Home-owners may be drawn to St. James solar shingles because of the many benefits this roofing system can provide:
They are aesthetically pleasing
Solar shingled roofs have a dark purplish-blue color, and just as good as a normal roof.
A Fully integrated shingle roof
These systems are architecturally great and exceptionally durable. They are wind and water proof with no support structures or systems needed.
A lower electric bill
Why pay for the electricity when you can generate it yourself.
Protects the environment
St. James Solar shingles provide pollution-free power
A Great investment
Since St. James solar shingles will save you so much on your electricity bill, the return on the investment is great. They will also help increase the current value of your home.
Potential Tax rebates
Installing St. James solar shingles is not only a great choice for the environment; you may be eligible for a tax rebate.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6157197
If you are looking for a professional North Carolina roofing contractor , then please call us today at 1-888-DRY-CLUB or complete our online request form.
There are about as many Wilmington roofing contractors to choose from as there are doctors, and I suggest you take the same care in choosing your roofing contractor as you would your doctor. While it’s clear that you are going to want a roofing contractor that employees capable installers, and it’s clear you will need to evaluate each proposal you receive and decide on the best price/value relationship for you. How then can you decide which roofing contractors are truly the professional roofing contractors you should do business with.
Interview them. Whether you are talking to a salesperson or the owner themselves they should show pride and enthusiasm in discussing other jobs. If they do not it may indicate his amount of involvement in the actual work.
When meeting with each Wilmington roofing contractor use the following seven questions to guide you through their interview.
1. What is the full name and address of the company?
Having a company that is nearby increases the likelihood of better and fast service. If you are provided a PO Box ask for a street address also.
2. Does the company carry insurance?
Workers compensation and liability insurance to be specific. If a worker is hurt and the roofing contractor does not have insurance the home owner is liable. Ask to have current certificates sent to you. Do not accept the roofing contractor at their word. They may carry health, life, and auto insurance. Bland assurances of insurance coverage may refer to these.
3. Is the company a licensed or credentialed roofing contractor?
Many state and local governments require Wilmington roofing contractors to be licensed or credentialed. Contact your city and county clerk’s office and find out if there are any requirements for roofing contractors in your area. Even if there is not still ask your contractor. The truly professional roofing contractors will most likely have proof of license or credential from other entities. Like a manufactures’ installation training certificate.
4. How long has the company been in business?
Longer is usually better. More than three years, but everybody had to start somewhere. A new business should not be disqualified from your decision making process, but if everything else is equal. Longer is usually better.
5. Will the company provide referrals or references from previous jobs?
Ask for a list of ten names and phone numbers of recent customers, within the last twelve months. It is not necessary to call all ten, but choose two or three randomly and call. Ask the referrals at minimum four questions. First, did he perform his work on a timely basis? Second, was he responsive when asked for information and changes? Third, did he act as if he cared about the customers interests? Finally, would you call the roofing contractor trustworthy?
6. What is the company’s workmanship warranty?
Some warranties are for one year, some are longer. The length of a roofing contractors warranty is not really as important as customer referrals. Most workmanship errors will be found within the first year, probably the first good storm. The reason this question is important and most roofing contractors will warranty the workmanship, and the manufacture will warranty the product as long as it is installed correctly. Make sure you understand both warranties and ask for a copy of each.
7. What is the company’s track record for solving customer complaints?
Try to find out how your Wilmington roofing contractor handles problems when they do arise. Request a referral from a job that involved a complaint. Ask the contractor if he has ever lost a job-related court case. Ask if his contractor’s license has ever been suspended and why. Also, in talking to the appropriate authorities, such as the Better Business Bureau and licensing departments, find out if any complaints have been filed against the contractors whom you have interviewed. Many contractors in business for any length of time have been involved in a dispute. Ask how the dispute was resolved, to test your roofing contractor’s reputation.
No building is complete without a quality roof. While a building’s roofing is often taken for granted, it is in many ways the most important part of your North Carolina commercial building. When taking the necessary considerations for planning your new commercial building, be sure you do not leave roofing to basic contractors. Roofing is a specialized part of construction, which is unfortunately often undertaken by general contractors who are under qualified.
You should count on a professional North Carolina roofing contractor to take care of your commercial building. Qualified technicians should be contracted for the installation and upkeep of your new commercial roof. Whether you are installing a new one, or already have one which needs to be maintained, it is important to find a company with a good reputation and expertise in various roofing techniques.
A good roofing maintenance program is essential to the roof of any building. No matter how well it was constructed, direct sunlight, heat, rain, and cold will take their toll. Over time, even the best materials will begin to break down. While it may seem that simply fixing a leak when it occurs is cheaper than paying for a preventative maintenance program, it is in fact much more expensive in the long run. Properly maintaining the roof of a commercial building will significantly increase the life of the roof, saving a substantial amount of money over the lifetime of your building. In some cases, a poorly maintained roof can also increase heating and cooling costs.
Another problem is that most leaks are hard to detect at first, and may cause substantial damage before being found. When cracks in the roofing first occur, they are usually small, and only small amounts of water leak in. In most cases, a roof which has not been maintained will have five to ten small leaks after just two to three years. These small leaks will get bigger over time due to exposure to the weather, in the meantime, however the amount of water may be too small to make it to a ceiling where it can be detected.
Small amounts of rain water can run down the inside of the roof and be absorbed by the insulation. Other leaks will often make their way into a wall. By the time you see water on the floor or a stain on the ceiling you have most likely had a leaky roof for months. At this point, however, the extra cost of fixing the roof will be the least of your concerns.
If water is allowed to collect in enclosed spaces within the ceilings and walls, mold and mildew will occur. While the smell of mildew is off-putting enough, other types of mold can be dangerous or even deadly. Commercial building codes and zoning laws in most areas will require extensive and costly repairs which may include replacement of all effected drywall insulation and carpet as well as professional cleaning services. A scheduled preventative maintenance plan will prevent leaks and other roofing problems. If leaks do occur, many maintenance plans are guaranteed, and will pay for any unexpected damages that do occur.
If you are looking for a professional North Carolina roofing contractor , then please call us today at 1-888-DRY-CLUB or complete our online request form.
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