Useful Tips: Installing Asphalt Shingles

So you’ve decided to try your hand at roofing. Awesome! Before you get started, please take a few minutes to go over the main steps involved in the process and a few things to look out for.

Get Ready

Before you start, make sure you have all the tools and equipment needed to properly install your BP asphalt shingles – listed below.

Tools required to install asphalt shingles:

Roofer’s hatchet or pneumatic nail gun

Utility knife, for cutting felts and roofing roll

Tape measure

Chalk line

Carpenter’s square

Tin snips, for cutting metal flashing and shingles

Square shovel, for removing old shingles

Caulking gun

Notched trowel

Material required for the installation of asphalt shingles:

Shingles

Galvanized roofing nails of appropriate length

Asphalt plastic cement

Eave protection (smooth or slate surface roofing roll)

Underlayment

Valley and flashing treatment (smooth or slate surface roofing roll)

Roof ventilators

Determine the slope and ventilation requirements of the roof

In order to determine the slope of the roof, simply place a ruler perpendicular to a staright level on the 30.5 cm (12 in) mark. The distance measured on the ruler between the roof and the level corresponds to the slope of the roof.

Refer to the diagram above for a detailed representation of the instructions.

Low slopes are slopes between 5 cm (2 in) and 10 cm (4 in): installing an eave protection and an underlayment is mandatory.

Standard slopes are slopes between 10 cm (4 in) and 20 cm (8 in): installing an eave protection is mandatory while installing an underlayment is recommended.

Strong slopes and sloping ceilings have a slope of over 20 cm (8 in): installing an eave protection and an underlayment is recommended.

ASPHALT SHINGLES

Instead of working with several different contractors, Keyprime Roofing can help you with all aspects of your roofing job. We can answer your questions, go over the details of your project, and help you design your roof the way you want it.

There are several reasons why asphalt shingles are a great option for your roof.

Versatility. With asphalt shingles, you have endless options; you can choose from an array of colors, textures, sizes, and brands. We can help you find the right asphalt shingles for your exterior home layout.

Cost vs Value. One of the things you love best about asphalt shingles is that they are the most cost-effective roofing product on the market. Plus, you never have to sacrifice value for savings. So, if you are on a budget, our roofing contractors can still help you get what you want at a price you can afford.

Impact Resistance. Do you have trees around your home? Is there a chance that something could hit your roof? Today’s asphalt shingles offer greater impact resistance than ever before. We offer shingles with a Class 4 impact resistance rating. This is the highest rating you can get for asphalt shingles.

Easy Installation. Compared to other types of roofing, asphalt shingle installation is fast and easy. We can complete most jobs within one to two days depending on your roof. Easy installation means fewer labor costs. Keyprime can guarantee fast installation with our experienced roofing contractors.

Class-A Fire Rating. Are you concerned about safety? Asphalt shingles have a Class-A fire rating that meets or exceeds all industry standards. Fiberglass asphalt roofing shingles offer exceptional protection against potential fire spreading throughout your roof.

Personalized Roofing Service Just for You

One of the things that distinguishes Keyprime Roofing from other companies is our commitment to a high level of customer service. When we first meet with you, we learn about what you are looking for and what you expect from our roofing company. This is also a great opportunity for you to ask questions and learn more about asphalt roofing installation.

Once we get an idea of what you are looking for, then we take care of everything from there. We care about our customers and want you to be 100% satisfied with every aspect of our work. You can count on Keyprime Roofing to deliver superior results, competitive rates, and work of the highest caliber anywhere in the area.

Roof Fix Radio Show: What’s New in Shingles

discusses some of the new shingles from GAF, including the Architectural HDZ. This roofing shingle has a wider nailing strip to protect roofs from high winds. The wider nailing strip (along with metal detectors) ensures that all six nails are holding down the shingles and protecting them from high winds. This new shingle has no wind limit, meaning it won’t come off even in 150 miles per hour winds

shouting from the rooftop over 30 years of Home Improvement experience and roof expertise, solid advice about roof repair, replacement, leaks, insurance claims, warning signs and the ever-popular small print. It’s all about the shingles under the sunshine

I mean they manufacture more shingles and they have one of my favorite shingles that we just launched out is going to be the new architectural HDZ. This roofing shingle has a 600% wider nailing strip and let me tell you what we’re doing coastal communities and stuff like that. They have tweeted out there that is an inspection firm that’s a third party insurance. And you know, a lot of those roofs failed because they weren’t getting the nails and the nailing strip.

You know, we use actually metal detectors folks on the roofs to make sure our crews are putting six nails per single Now, this new shingle has no wind limit. I mean, this is an amazing shingle. They put this shingle in a wind environment and got it all the way up to 150 miles per hour. And the neat thing about this was this extra strip, they took also the granules

GAF developed it. They’re the only company that has it and DuraGrip will seal against that 600% wider now thin. And then, of course, we’re using six nails per shingle. So we went from 130 miles per hour wind guarantee to a no wind limit and a lifetime warranty a full 50 years on labor and material. This will be the last roof you ever put on your home.

Things to Know About Metal Over Shingle Roof Problems

Both metal and shingle roofs are great options for your next roofing project. If you are trying to decide between the two materials it’s important to carefully consider the drawbacks of installing a shingle or metal roof. After all,  you’ll be making a significant and long term investment. Conducting an honest comparison can help homeowners make the best decision on what roofing system that will best benefit they’re home.

Common Metal Roof Problems

While metal roof systems are one of the most durable and environmentally friendly roofing material available on the market it does come with its fair share of disadvantages. As you probably know, a metal roof is a major initial investment so knowing some of the drawbacks of this roofing material is important

Corrosion

A galvanized steel metal roof is highly susceptible to corrosion and rust over a period of time. You’ll be surprised to learn that the primary cause of rusting and corrosion is water. Yes, oxygen and pollutants in water combined with the moisture create iron oxide otherwise known as rust. Rust eventually eats away at the metal ultimately decreasing its performance. However, most metal panels are covered with water-resistant paint. Before purchasing metal panels you’ll need to inspect the coating of the paint.

Failing Fasteners or Clips

Fasteners and clips are what holds a metal roof down on the seams. Fasteners and clips are also subject to deterioration largely due to corrosion. Improperly installed and failing fasteners can allow water to enter into the home through open spots. That’s why it’s important to use stainless steel fasteners so you won’t have to worry about the integrity of your metal roof is compromised. When the fasteners or clips fail this can cause the metal panels to expand and contract resulting in the panels lifting.

Easily Scratches

Of course, metal panels are easily scratched. At some point during its lifecycle, you can expect the metal panels to get scuffed or scratched.  However, scratches down to the metal can be problematic. Overgrown trees, debris, and even snow can scuff up the surface. In some instances, this can lead to punctures and tears that result in leaks.   Metal roofs require regular inspection so that needed repairs can be made before the problems become gets worse.

Asphalt Roofing Shingles More To Consider Than You Might Think

Asphalt roofing shingles make up the lion’s share of roofing materials used in residential roofing, and for good reason. They have a number of benefits for the homeowner, including relatively easy installation and low cost compared to other roofing types.

They’re versatile too. Whereas wood shake roofs generally look the same you can get asphalt shingles in a range of colors and styles.

They can even be energy efficient, helping to keep your attic and the rest of your house cooler, provided you buy the right product that’s rated as an ENERGY STAR roofing shingle

There aren’t too many drawbacks to asphalt shingles but if there’s one that stands out, it’s what to do with them once they’re used up. It’s one thing to consider if you’re looking for “green” roofing choices.

And while you might think that all of these products look the same you might be surprised at what’s available. Manufacturers are always working to develop the latest feature or innovation that’ll set them apart, and there are a few that you’ll want to know about before you choose your next asphalt shingle roof.

How to Choose the Perfect Shingles for Your RooF

Choose the Right Type of Shingle

One of the first things you’ll have to decide is what type of shingles you want for your roof. Herb Lodde & Sons installs laminate roofing as well as cedar shakes and shingles.

If you prefer an asphalt-based shingle, it’s important to understand the differences between 3-tab and laminate shingles, two of the most popular kinds available for residential homeowners:

• Regular asphalt shingles (otherwise known as “3-tab” shingles) are flat with one shingle tab shape and size. They are lighter than laminate shingles; however the prices are typically comparable and 3-tab shingles are less durable over the long run.
• Architectural or laminate shingles are a type of asphalt shingle, but they’re built with a heavier base mat and a greater number of layers of more refined asphalt. The tabs have different sizes and shapes, which gives them a more dimensional appearance.

Select the Style of Shingle and Features That Will Be Best

Factors to take into account include:

• Appearance: How much dimension do you want your shingles to have? Architectural shingles are designed to provide a shadow effect that gives your roof an ultra-dimensional look.
• Algae Defence: If you live in an algae-prone area, look for shingles that feature built-in guards against discolouration.
• Fire Protection: To keep your home and everything in it safe, your shingles should have a Class A fire rating (the most effective against severe exposure)

Don’t forget to think about environmental conditions as well. If you live in an area that tends to get buffered by high winds or dumped with snow, your shingles need to be ready to stand up to the challenges Mother Nature has in store for them.

Factors That Impact the Type of Roof Shingle You Need

How much you’ll pay for various roof shingle materials and installation is only the tip of the iceberg. There are several key factors to consider deciding on the best roofing material for your home.

1. How Much Do Roof Shingles Cost?

Most homeowners pay between $4,700 and $10,460 for a new roof. When budgeting, keep in mind that the cost of installation and labor, as well as the cost of the material itself, will impact your bottom line. You’ll also need to account for the total square footage that your new shingles will cover. If you have a large roof area to cover, you might consider opting for cheaper materials.

2. What Is the Slope and Pitch of Your Roof?

Slope refers to how steep the angle of your roof is, and is normally measured with two numbers representing the rise, or height of your roof, and the run, representing it’s length. As an example, a slope of 4:12 indicates that a roof rises four feet and runs 12 feet. Depending on how steep the slope of your roof is, it may not be well suited for heavier roof shingle types, such as slate or clay tiles.

3. What Are the Weight Limits of Your Structure?

The weights of shingle materials vary widely. That’s why it’s important to know how much weight your home’s structure can safely support before making a decision. Buildings are designated a “dead load” tolerance, or the weight of the roof structure. If the dead load is exceeded, the structure will not be able to support its own weight. The average home has a dead load of around 15 pounds per square foot.

Facts and Tips on How to Pick Shingle Colors to Complement Your Home

More and more homeowners are adding value to their property – and lifestyle – by creating outdoor living spaces.

When it’s time to think outside the home, it’s time to include that new roof in your plans.

Wouldn’t you love to have an outdoor kitchen for al fresco cooking, dining and entertaining? Or a spa-like relaxation area complete with a pool, deck, hot tub or even a sauna?

See how much of your new roof will be visible from your backyard? Consider it an element of your exterior decorating!

Your roof can account for up to 40% of your home’s visual exterior, so it deserves as much consideration as you’d devote to its interior design.

The higher the pitch or the greater the slope of your roof, the more you’ll see the shingles from street level. When selecting your asphalt roofing shingles, choose a color and profile that will enhance your home’s architectural style and draw the eye upward toward any special details, like dormers and gables.

Color is too important a factor to ignore. Not only does it have a psychological effect (calming, soothing, exciting, etc.) on us, it can serve other purposes that we’ll explore more fully below.

Construction and building materials can also vary by geographic location. Here are two examples, and how they might affect choosing a shingle color for your roof. Brick homes are more prevalent in northern areas; in southern areas, frame or stucco homes tend to be more common. Other facings often used in both areas include masonry, stone veneer, wood logs, wood or vinyl siding.

Darker colors absorb heat; lighter colors reflect heat and may help keep your home cooler, although you have to take what some say about energy savings with a grain of salt. Adequate ventilation and the quality of your home’s insulation are what really determine its energy efficiency.

That said, colors that are highly reflective may be required in some states to meet environmental codes. A local roofing contractor will know if this applies and can guide you in selecting a shingle color.

These Points To Consider When Choosing A New Roof Color:

Look at what you have: Replacing your roof with the type of material you already have is generally safe, since builders typically choose the right material for a home’s architectural style, structural support, color palette and location, he said.

Consider climate: Shingle color can affect your home’s temperature and, depending on your insulation, energy bills. Black attracts and retains heat, making attics hotter. A lighter roof reflects the sun and keeps interiors cooler.

Factor in house colors: Red brick houses look nice with dark brown, deep gray or black shingles. Light gray houses look smart with dark gray roofs. Beige or cream houses work with brown, warm gray or even colored shingles. If you’re planning to change the color of your house, now is a good time to consider the whole palette.

Don’t make a statement: Your roof should not be the first feature folks notice. “A roof is meant to be in the background.  A very dark roof will be more pronounced. A light roof will compete with the facade for attention, which is why mid tones are most popular.

Common Roofing Materials

Asphalt shingles
Asphalt shingles come in a variety of colors to choose from, have a relatively low cost, are easy to install, and are durable enough to walk on without causing damage.

Wood shakes
Wood shakes improve attic ventilation, and they’re beautiful and unique looking. However, they can be difficult to install. Plus, mold and insects can be a problem.

Clay tile
Clay tiles have a long life span, won’t burn or rot, and come in a variety of colors to choose from. However, tile can be heavy, requiring extra roof support. Plus, they’re fragile and more expensive.

Slate
Slate roofs can be laid out in a variety of patterns, provide fire protection, and they’re not vulnerable to insects or rotting. At the same time, slate roofs can be expensive, very heavy, and fragile.

Concrete tile
Concrete tiles are durable and have a long lifespan. Plus, they require low maintenance, and can even imitate the look of wood, clay or slate. That being said, the material may change color or curl, and they’re more expensive.

Metal
Metal roofs can imitate the look of clay, shingles, wood, or Victorian metal tiles. They also provide fire protection, have a long lifespan, and require fewer roofing repairs and maintenance. Not to mention the fact that they’re energy efficient, too.

However, metal roofs are expensive and are challenging to install.

Hot asphalt
Asphalt flat roofs are less expensive and durable, but they’re not as attractive as other materials.

Water damage can cost around $2,386 to fix, and wind damage costs an average of $5,757, though it 

How to Choose a Roofing Contractor

Need to Find a Good Roofer?

Installing a new roof is one of the most important, and expensive, home improvement projects you’ll run into as a homeowner. It and your siding is the first line of defense for your home against the elements. Whether you need a quick repair or a complete replacement, you’ll want to hire a trustworthy roofing pro. Here are a few tips to help you find — and work with — your contractor.

When Do I Need to Find a Roofer?

There are a few reasons you might need a roofer:

installation or replacement

repair

maintenance and inspection

Remember that these companies, especially independent contractors, often specialize in repairs or replacement. An installer might not have much experience with repair, and vice versa. Make sure that the one you hire knows how to work with the material you have (or want).

New Roof Installation or Replacement

A roof will last 20 to 50 years. Afterward, it usually requires replacement. The cost to replace or install a roof ranges from $5,200 to $10,100. High-end materials may cost more

Roofing Repair

The price to repair a roof runs $350 to $1,300. If it is leaking, sagging or showing other signs of damage, you may need a pro to fix it. Many professionals will perform this work on one they installed. If you need to a hire a pro different from the installer, be sure to look for companies that offer repair.

Roofing Maintenance and Inspection

Hiring a pro for a roof inspection or to provide routine maintenance can increase its lifespan. The expense to hire a roof inspector averages about $200. You may want to arrange service every 6 to 18 months, depending on the material. Some companies offer maintenance plans when you get a new one, but many don’t perform this service.

Steps For Choosing The Best Roofing Contractor

A house is a safe haven which protects your family from harsh weather and provides security. Compromising your family with the use of poor quality roofing solutions can be costly and risky too. That’s why its advisable to use good quality roofing services and ensure you obtain good workmanship. Getting roofing repairs every now and then is a costly affair

Looking for a roofing contractor.

Word of mouth is always the best method of acquiring accurate details of a contractor. Friends, family & relatives, colleagues and neighbors can be a great source of information. Ask them about the roofing contractor they’ve used in the past. They will be more than willing to assist you.

License Verification

Check if he has a license and if yes, check whether its up-to-date. This can be done by contacting the license board. The contractors’ website is also another great source where you can check the type of licensing required for roofing contractors.

Ask for his identification documents

He should prove that he is legal by giving you his business address, tax identification number or his phone number.

Check if he has an Insurance cover

The insurance should include a worker’s compensation and liability coverage. Its not a good idea to hire an uninsured contractor.

How To Choose The Best Roofer

Choosing the best roofer for a home should be a concentrated and intense search; after all, the average homeowner replaces his roof well, he never replaces it.   And his search is therefore not for a competent roofer, but for the best there is.  This is a lifetime investment hes deciding upon.   And surprisingly enough, the rules that usually apply to getting a good deal in other areas may not be the best ideas, or yield the best deal, in this case

The first rule most people have whenever theyre buying anything is to buy it from whoever gives the cheapest price.  Statistically, however, the best roofers are not cheap.  The cheapest roofer isnt likely to do the best or most permanent job.  His business may be a novice one and just getting off the ground; the temptation that hits many new companies is to offer the cheapest bids on contractual jobs such as roofing.  How do they make the bid work?  They use the cheapest materials and cut corners, definitely not what one wants in a lifetime investment.

Since one doesnt want a new roofer to work at the homeowners expense, its best to shop around for a middle – of – the – road price range, and a roofer that has credentials, references and a portfolio (all of which should be on his website) showing that he does good, competent and long – lasting work.   Obviously the best roofers still want to stay in business, and that means offering competitive prices, but they still will do the job in the best and most competent way after all, their reputation follows them.

The second rule most people have is, local businesses are not as good as a national chain.  Again, not true.  Local roofers are usually the ones who have the inside information on permits and insurance for roofing.  For example, in a hurricane – prone area, the licenses, permits and insurance will be far different, and probably more expensive, than other areas of the country.  A local man will know the ins and outs of the business far more effectively than a national chain will.

The third rule:  avoid family businesses, since they rip you off if youre not family.  This one is absolutely untrue; a generational roofing business is ideal to use.  It has been around for quite a while, no one employed there is a novice just learning his trade, and the business has, in all probability, a sterling reputation with the local community .  Theyve been at it long enough that they know what theyre good at, and so do their customers.

Tips For Choosing The Best Roof Repair Professionals

If your home has a gaping hole in its roof following a major windstorm and due to a falling tree, getting the damages repaired is probably a top concern. Don’t make the mistake of hiring the first roof repair service that you come across. The roof is by far one of the most costly parts of your home to replace, and it is also your home’s very first line of defense against the natural elements which means that you’ll need to use discretion while searching. After all, spending just a few days and nights with a short-term fix is far better than spending years with a shabby and poorly patched roof.

You Should Always Ask For Recommendations

Check-in with your co-workers, neighbors, friends, and relatives. You’ll get the best and most helpful references from consumers that have used roof repair companies in the past. Try to speak with people who’ve used roofing services some time ago so that you can see how the work is holding up and the overall condition of their roofs.

Check The BBB And Other Online Review Platforms

Always check a roofing company’s Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating. If a roof repair company is not listed on BBB.org, then you probably shouldn’t trust it. This is something that you will likely run into a lot following a significant storm, when roofers who are working out of their trucks start canvassing neighborhoods, looking for projects to pick up. These individuals do not have the qualifications for roof replacement, but they realize that many homeowners are desperate for solutions.

Request Licensing Info And Proof Of Insurance

Fly-by-night roofers do not have all of the proper documentation for their businesses. You should work with contractors who can provide proof of insurance, including both workers compensation and liability. Insurance is essential because legal action is always a possibility when accidents occur on the job, or if issues arise after the work crew is done

Learn More About The Designations Of Manufacturers

Find out if roofing contractors have any accreditation from manufacturers. This means that roofers have met specific requirements for obtaining factory certification. This isn’t something that every roofer has, but it does show a personal dedication to the craft, and it is an additional stamp of approval.

Tips for How to Choose the Right Roofing Contractor

Getting a roof repaired or replaced is a large investment, so it’s important that you get the job done by the right roofing contractor. It takes careful consideration and research to choose a good roofing company.

Read Local Reviews

A good place to start is to read customer reviews of local roofing contractors. A couple of good review sites to check include Yelp and Google My Business. Once you find a few roofing contractors with good reviews, you can move on to the next steps

Check their BBB Rating

A good business will always be registered with the Better Business Bureau. Check for a high BBB rating and whether or not the company’s been registered with the BBB for a long time

Look for Association Memberships

All roofing organizations require that contractors meet strict standards in order for them to retain membership within the organization. If the contractor belongs to one or more roofing association, you can be sure that they’re dedicated to meeting high standards for their work.

Ask for References

Roofing contractors should be able to provide you with references. Ask them for 3-5 references and make sure that they check out