Here, you are going to find the best selection of relevant blog posts, advice, and tips on how to properly check if your roofing system needs a repair and check for possible leaks. Every week stop by to read only the best roofing tips coming from The Cool Roofing Company, the best roof repair company in Atlanta. With our skills and experience in roofing for many years till now, we are able to provide the necessary guides for our customers across Atlanta metropolitan area.
Except reading the recent news and tips regarding roof repair and maintenance, you will have the opportunity to read about our recent projects as well. So, don’t miss out reading our blog posts on time, and we assure you’ll be up to date with the latest roofing trends. We are offering our services to everyone in need across Atlanta metropolitan area, and we’re always glad to help with professional advice.
Average Price Of Roof Repair And Replacement
Four Average costs of roof repair/replacement
The roof is an essential part of your house, and its quality is of the highest importance. Depending on the quality and its properties, it protects your house from moisture, leakage, provides insulation, to higher or lesser extent. A quality roof does not necessarily entail an expensive roof. It is important to know that the price of the roof varies from contractor to contractor, as well as from location to location, according to The Cool Roofing company, local roofers from Atlanta, GA. It also depends on the size of the roof and on what you are looking for in one.
You can get an estimate from different contractors before you start working on replacing or repairing your roof, and then choose the best one for your needs. From the cheaper ones to more costly ones, here are some of the most common roof materials, their characteristics, and average costs.
Source: Jim Bergstrom, Flickr
1. Asphalt shingles
Asphalt shingle roofing is in general much less expensive than metal roofing. Asphalt shingles are the most widely used material across the United States. They are very easy to install and come in many different colors. On the other hand, asphalt roofs are less durable, and their longevity is shorter. They would probably need to be replaced or repaired two to four times during their lifespan. Asphalt roofs also do not provide the best quality insulation that other materials offer. So it is important to calculate this into your predictions and decide what is more profitable in the long run. Asphalt shingles last for approximately 15-30 years, and they do not provide the best insulation during high temperatures.
The price for asphalt shingles can be anywhere from 90$ to $200 per roofing square (a roofing square equals 100 square feet). But that is only the cost of the material. The price of the labor also has to be included in the calculations. The most common pricing structure with roofing contractors is 40% materials and 60% labor and installation process. So the total average price would be from around $200 to $500.
2. Metal Roof
Metal roofs are a better alternative to asphalt shingles when it comes to longevity and energy-efficiency. With the popularity of sustainable and energy-efficient living, the popularity of metal roofs has also grown. They are designed to reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat than a standard roof and therefore reduce the energy consumption and cost. They are lighter, very durable and have a long warranty of 50+ years.
The installation process has to be very precise and accurately measured, it demands special skills and equipment, and the installation takes two to three times longer than with asphalt shingles. All of this makes metal roofs more expensive. But when it comes to quality, it is among the best.
Metal roofs can come in steel, aluminum, copper, and zinc. Steel is the most affordable among them, while copper and zinc are premium quality metal materials for roofs with a price to match their quality. They cost on average between $900 and $1400, so it is safe to say that they are not very widely used.
Materials for the metal roof will cost in average from $300 to $425 per square, which is the price range for the most commonly used steel and aluminum shingles. Adding the labor and installation price, the roof would cost you on average $750-$1000 per roofing square.
3. Slate
Slate roofs are also among the most durable and high-quality roofs. They are said to be unmatched in their beauty and durability. That is probably why their prices are among the highest. The installation of slates is also a precise and sensitive process because they are not easy to handle and are very brittle, so the price is proportionally higher.
They are very low-maintenance, durable, and can withstand any weather conditions. They are waterproof and completely non-combustible. It is a sustainable roof. Considering their warranty they have a significantly lower impact on the environment and can be recycled.
As already stated, the main disadvantage with slate is its cost. Both the material and the more complex installation can be fairly expensive. The price for the material ranges from $500 to $800, and with the installation process and the labor it goes up to $1000-$2000 per square.
4. Wood Shakes
Wood shakes have a shorter lifespan than other materials, with a warranty of around 25 years. They are made of natural materials, which makes them good for the environment and sustainable. They are also durable and can withstand unfavorable weather conditions, but have to be regularly and frequently maintained.
The average price is around $150 to $350 for materials, and together with the installation process, it can amount to around $600-$900 per roofing square.
Tile roofing
Today, tiles are made out of two most commonly used materials – clay and concrete. The prices of clay and concrete tiles are similar – they are both expensive, with concrete being a little less expensive but also a little less durable. They are among the most expensive materials for roofs. They are extremely durable with very long warranties – the lifespan of clay tiles is from 75 to 100 years, and concrete tiles can last for up to 50 years. They are non-combustible and the concrete ones are even energy-efficient.
The price will depend on the type and thickness of tiles, its grade, color, and weight. The average cost of the tiles is from $1200 to $2500 per roofing square. Since concrete tiles are a little less expensive they would be in the lower range of these prices.
Composite Shingle
Composite or synthetic shingles that imitate wood shakes or shingles are in a way a compromise when choosing between asphalt shingles and slate or shake. They have the beauty and quality of slate but at a lower cost. They also have a longer warranty than asphalt shingles and wood shakes – for more than 50 years – which is up to two or three times longer. These shingles are polymer-based, which means they are made of plastic and rubber. They are light, eco-friendly, recyclable, and resistant to mold, fungus, and rot.
The average price for a composite shingle is between $550 and $950 per roofing square, which places them somewhere between slate and asphalt shingles.
- Published in Roof repair
Protecting Your Roof
ROOF REPAIRS – WHAT DAMAGES YOUR ROOF
Roofing systems are the most exposed component of your home. They are subject to all weather conditions 24 hours a day. The biggest mistake homeowners are prone to making is procrastinating with repairing their roof or replacing it because they think that is how they save money. Trust us, you may not invest in your new kitchen table, and that can wait, however, the quality of your roof is crucial and inevitable if you are aiming at a highly efficient and functional home.
This is important to realize because the reason why people always have to repair their roofing systems is often because they simply have the wrong one for the climate they live in. Secondly, homeowners often do not dedicate enough time to the preparation of their roofs. Preparing for winter is inevitable if you want your roof to survive extremely low temperatures successfully. Winters are becoming harsher each year, so it is important to know what damages your roof in order to prevent it.
Investing in your roof is never a useless financial investment. It is the smartest one because you are investing in the protection of your family members, yourself, your possessions and everything you’ve worked for. The Cool Roofing Company, commercial roof repair contractor in Atlanta GA claims that knowing what causes the damage to your roof and why you have to repair it is the first step towards properly securing your roof and lowering chances of damage appearing again.
The weather conditions
Weather conditions are the number one reason and cause of harm. Low temperatures combined with high-speed winds, hails, snow and rainstorm can significantly injure your roofing system and cause it to collapse. Certain conditions result in different types of damages. Winds and strong hurricanes have the ability to pull out your roof shingles and panels and leave you exposed and roofless. Rainstorms are dangerous because of leaks that could appear in delicate places on the roof like flashings, chimneys, and vents. Hail can make small holes and scratches and let moisture in, so your interior could suffer.
Watch your gutters
Another reason of damage is often debris in the form of branches or leaves that clog your drain rain system. The primary purpose of gutters is to channel the water away from your property. However, if the gutters are clogged, then the water will sit until it leaks. To prevent that, make sure you inspect your gutters regularly and clean them efficiently.
Preparation time
Preparation time plays a significant role in preventing damage. Along with inspection, it can help you go through harsh winters with almost nothing to repair on your roof. These simple measures can help you decrease the negative effects of low temperatures and excess water, and they are straightforward and quick.
What to do
First of all, make sure that you trim all the trees around your house. Even though you wouldn’t think of it as problematic, branches and leaves can hurt your roofing system. Branches can cause scratches and holes through which water can easily come in. On the other hand, leaves can clog your gutters and cause a disastrous leak. Roof inspection before winter (preferably in fall) is a must. Check all the vulnerable parts of your roofing system like chimneys or flashing. Replace the missing or broken shingles and inspect your roof from all sides. According to The Cool Roofing Company, roof contractor in Atlanta GA, you should search for signs of bubbling surface, rust, mold and blistering. If you shingles are buckling or curling, make sure to contact a professional to see what exactly is going on. It is better to pay for repairs before the winter and lower the chances of destruction than to risk being roofless.
- Published in Roof repair
Should you install wood shakes?
Are wood shakes worth it?
Our roofing company offers you a wide range of roofing materials, and we’ve written a lot about many of them. However, we haven’t covered the wood as roofing material, which is not acceptable considering it was once the most popular material for building in general. Even today, people still love using wood not just for roofing but for decorating their house as well. Many details around the house or the furniture is made from wood simply because it gives a certain level of coziness and comfortable feel.
Wood roofing is a traditional form of roofing, and it offers you some benefits as well as some drawbacks. It has the power to transform the whole look of your property, and you have to be careful when choosing it since, unlike slate, it doesn’t fit each architectural style. However, wood shakes can be designed in various ways so you still have some freedom. There are big differences in the pattern, color, thickness and shape of your wooden roofing system. This roofing option can be your smart choice only if it’s installed by a professional, so we are here to help. The Cool Roofing company will inform you about everything you need to know about wood shakes – a traditional and old way of roofing that can easily be used as a modern technique and roofing option. So, sit back and read this article which will teach you everything you need to now about wood shakes and how to get the best out fo the material.
TYPES OF WOOD
First of all, we need you to know about the types of wood. Just like metal, there are differences between each type of wood. So, it’s not the same if your roof is made of red cedar or pine. When it comes to forms, there are two basic categories: shingles and shakes. The difference is in texture and thickness, so shakes are thicker and have more noticeable texture than shingles. Shakes can be made of pine, cypress, redwood trees and pine. It also depends on where the manufacturer is located. If you get the wood material from Scandinavia ( a part of Europe famous for using wood in architecture), you will probably get roof shakes made of pine. North Americans mostly produce shingles and shake made out of California Redwood or Western Red Cedar, so it all depends on where the factory is located in.
WOOD SHAKES: THE GOOD AND THE BAD
Since we live in the 21st century, it is about time to start thinking about the influence on the environment. Wood is a rare roofing material which is completely eco-friendly and has a green factor. The thing about wood is that it is hundred percent natural. Shakes made from wood are renewable roofing option and also biodegradable. Roofing companies all over the globe ( count us in as well) and nature enthusiasts always try to promote the wood for building or roofing since it can be recycled. Wood is also energy efficient- wood shakes provide insulation which will save you up to 35 percent of energy, so you will also save a lot of money.
Except for the incredible looks, wood shakes are also a long lasting roofing option. While asphalt shingles can last for 30 years if you are lucky, wood can go for 40 years without replacement. If you use appropriate preservatives and finishes, you can prolong its lifespan. The right care and maintenance are crucial when it comes to having wood shakes.
Unfortunately, wood is not completely perfect roofing material. There are some flaws and drawbacks that you have to be careful of. While it is one of the most beautifully looking materials, wood is also very expensive. Of course, the final price will depend on the size of your roof and other factors, but wood, in general, is a pricey material. Another drawback is a lot of needed maintenance. Caring for wood shakes is not an option. Your roof will have to be often inspected since there is a lot of things that can harm it. First of all, the insects can make their nests in your roof, so applying chemicals which will stop bugs from coming is a must. Shakes will probably split and fade over time, so it would be smart to learn how to replace individual shakes. Let’s not forget that wood is natural burning material, so be careful of that and get insurance.
Overall, wood can be a great roofing material, but your wooden roof has to be installed by an experienced roofing company which will provide you with all the information you need and warranty as well. So, contact The Cool Roofing company your trustworthy local Atlanta commercial roofing company to get the best out of your roof.
- Published in Roof repair
How to deal with snow on your roof?
Snow is a very beautiful winter asset. It gives you that special feeling of the utmost serenity. Of course that only works in cases where you don’t have to go pretty much anywhere, and when your roof can handle it.
Every snowfall, you have to grab a shovel, or a similar tool you’ve decided to harass and clean that excessive amount of snow from your roof in fear of it collapsing.
Fortunately, it doesn’t work that way. By following the universal building code, your roof is made to endure all hardships of your area and even more. So there isn’t much of a chance of it collapsing on top of your head while you’re sleeping, but that still doesn’t mean you shouldn’t keep the snow off.
The White Devil
Although one would think you would get accustomed to snow in a certain while, especially if you find yourself living in a naturally cold area, the truth is quite the opposite. It is always a tiresome task.
It is absolutely tiresome, and it is absolutely necessary. The accumulation of a huge amount of snow can lead to leaking problems, insulation problems and much much more.
One of the best examples of just how fearsome snow is, are ice dams. An ice dam is a mass formed when accumulated snow starts to melt, and new layers of snow are formed upon that melting layer.
In case you have a roof with a steep slope, you can easily recognize this all thanks to gravity. The melting snow, flows down the roof creating icicles you like to chop off. The additional, fresh layers of snow that are formed upon the melting layer are providing the perfect insulation to keep this process alive.
The frequent appearance of ice dams can significantly shorten your roofs life expectancy and thus lead to more unnecessary expenses.
Another problem a homeowner has to face is leaking. Leaking itself can be caused by a variety of things, one of it being snow melting in the spring, to prevent such mishaps from happening, further down are some helpful tips on how to get rid of that annoying snow.
How to effectively remove snow from your roof?
Although humans are usually visual creatures, a large amount of snow can act as a trigger for you to hastily remove it. Generally speaking, it is good to keep that fear in the back of your head, but you should also learn that the weight of the snow does the trick.
To check how much snow is too much, go to your upper-floor doors and check if they stick. In case they do, that means that there is a large mass pressuring the centerpiece of your house. While checking to see if the doors stick, you could also check the door frames and any areas surrounding the door for dark spots or any visible cracks.
In case you want to bother yourself with the cleaning process, you could always obtain a snow rake from your nearest hardware store. The most popular ones are the rakes that go between the snow and the roof, allowing for gravity to take its course. Of course, try and collapse it somewhere that isn’t your head.
Fortunately, there are a lot of professional snow contractors these days, so you should probably leave it all to them. Before allowing a stranger to clean your roof, check their license and insurance to ensure premium quality, even in such a small task. If you need any further information regarding how to clean your roof, don’t hesitate to call your most trusted roofing contractor from Atlanta, The Cool Roofing Company, No. 1 commercial roofing in Atlanta.
- Published in Roof repair
Spring Cleaning Checklist for Commercial Roofs
Temperatures in Georgia are warming up, so it’s time for some spring cleaning for most of you. While your’e busy cleaning out the storage den, patio, garage and closets, we’d like to take the opportunity to remind you about spring maintenance for the exterior of your humble abode – don’t forget your roof! Your Atlanta roofers know it’s something that many homeowners tend to forget, and once the summer gets busy, it’s hard to find the time or inclination to worry about home maintenance. (more…)
- Published in Roof repair
Signs of Roof Leaks: Fix Them Before It’s Too Late
Most of us are guilty of taking for granted the roof over our heads. At one time or another, we need to think about it before it stops working, or even worse, before it starts leaking. 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 surfacing around your home or cabin may already be a serious issue. That leak can cause all sorts of awful problems for you including damaged ceilings, water stains, rotting, molding and harmful structural damage just to name a few. (more…)
- Published in Roof repair