Contractor Tips Blog

Jun
24

4 Environmentally Friendly Roofing Options

Posted in Roofing

Most people are more conscious of how the items they use impact the environment. This includes using products that are either recyclable or made from recycled materials. When it comes to home improvements, one of the largest material items you may need to buy is a new roof. If you want to be environmentally-conscious, you will want to choose a roofing material that is either recyclable or made from recycled materials. Here are four of the best environmentally-friendly roofing options.

Wood Shingles

While chopping down trees is not necessarily environmentally-friendly, wood shingles can still be a good choice. They are recyclable and last for close to twenty years. Choose a brand that uses recycled wood for the greenest choice.

Slate

Not only are slate tile roofs beautiful, they can last up to a hundred years. Stone is always recyclable and some slate tiles used for roofing have been salvaged from other buildings, reducing impact on the environment caused by mining.

Metal

Many metal roofs can last for fifty or more years and they are recyclable. Metal roofs are a durable and cost-effective choice when looking at eco-friendly roofing options.

Clay

Insulating, beautiful and recyclable, clay tiles are a great choice for a green roof. These are most popular in the hotter climates as they reflect heat and add an air cushion to insulate the home.

If you want to be eco-conscious when buying your next roof, talk to your roofing contractor about the green options available. Even asphalt shingles come in eco-friendly varieties made from recycled materials. By making an informed decision, you can find the best roof for your needs that will have the least negative impact on the planet.

Posted on behalf of:
Atwood Home Builders
227 W 8
th Ave
Homestead, PA 15120
(412) 638-1262

Jul
20

Take Your Shingles from Shabby to Chic

Posted in Roofing

Does your roof look shabby? An old roof is more than just an aesthetic issue – it can leak, causing thousands of dollars of water and mold damage to your home. If your shingles are falling apart, it is time to consider roof replacement. Not only will a new roof protect your home, it can give your house a new look. Go from shabby to chic with these roofing options.

Metal Roofing

Metal roofs offer longevity and can be a beautiful option for your home. Metal roofing has improved in appearance, with more aesthetic options than those in the past. They are also easy to maintain. You want to choose a good quality metal roof – aluminum roofs are inexpensive, but can easily dent or sustain damage in hail and other storms.

Tile or Slate Singled Roofs

Two of the most beautiful options for roofing are tile and slate shingles. They offer a stunning topping for your home and come in different colors and shingle sizes. However, these are premium options and two of the more expensive types of roofing available.

Asphalt Shingle Roofing

Tried and true, asphalt roofing is one of the most cost-effective options to re-roof your home. It is also the most used option in the U.S. There are many different levels of asphalt roofing – some shingles come with lifetime or 50-year warranties, which can protect your investment.

A new roof can change the look of your home – a great asset if you plan on selling your home in the future. Talk to your local roofing contractor about the different roofing options to decide which is best for your needs and budget.

Posted on behalf of:
Atwood Home Builders
227 W 8th Ave
Homestead, PA 15120
(412) 638-1262

Jul
21

What Is the Best Roofing for Your Needs?

Posted in Roofing

If it is time to replace your roof or you are building a new home, you have a big decision to make. What kind of roofing will best meet your needs? There are many options available, all with their own benefits and disadvantages. To make an educated choice, consider the breakdown on the common roof materials available.

Asphalt Shingles

The most commonly used roofing is asphalt shingles. This is an affordable option that usually will last approximately 20-30 years, with some lifetime or 50-year options available. While common, asphalt shingles are not the most durable or longest lasting material, yet still are preferred by many homeowners and roofing companies.

Wood Shingles

Cedar shingles or wood stakes are another option for your roof. Considered a ‘green’ option since they do not use petroleum-based products, these shingles have grown more popular in the environmentally-friendly market. Most wood roof products will last about 30 years and are a durable, beautiful option, but can require more maintenance and are more expensive than asphalt.

Metal

There are many different types of metal roofs, from the cheaper aluminum varieties to the more durable steel roof shingles. These roofs can last upward of 70 years, depending on the type. They are also fire-resistant and can withstand heavy abuse during storms.

Tile

A tile roof can be a beautiful option that lasts 50-100 years. Both ceramic and slate tile are popular in upscale homes. The aesthetic value is high, as is the cost in both installation and repairs.

Where you live, your budget and your priorities will have a big impact on what type of roofing you choose. Talk to your local roofing contractor to determine which type is the best option for your needs.

Posted on behalf of:
Atwood Home Builders
227 W 8th Ave
Homestead, PA 15120
(412) 638-1262

Nov
21

Replacement Roofing

Posted in Roofing

One of the most important parts of every home is the roof, which protects the occupants of the home, as well as their possessions and the structure of the home itself from weather.  Roofing materials include asphalt shingles, slate shingles, wood shakes and a variety of synthetic specialty materials used on flat roofs.  Although these materials have a long life span and are extremely durable when properly installed properly by a licensed and insured contractor, eventually the roof will need to be replaced either due to age or other causes.  Often these other causes will include extreme weather events such as hailstorms. 

The first step in determining if a roof needs to be replaced is to have a thorough inspection performed by a highly experienced and customer service focused roofing contractor, who is also licensed and insured.  During the inspection the technician will take note of any storm related damage, as well as normal wear and tear and discuss their findings with the property owner. 

If the roof is need of replacement, the contractor will provide a written estimate and can provide assistance to the property owner if they are seeking a bank loan or making an insurance claim on their homeowner’s policy to pay for the residential roof replacement.  Once the property owner has approved the roof replacement, the work will be scheduled and performed as quickly as possible by highly trained and experienced craftsmen.  Once completed, the new roof will provide years of protection to the home, occupants and their possessions, while providing the energy efficiency of the home as well as improving the aesthetics of the home.

Posted on behalf of Ken Christie, CZE Roofing and Remodeling

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