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Tips and Tricks: Summer Roof Maintenance

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Summer has arrived and in between the hustle and bustle of grilling out, going on beach trips, and kids summer vacation it is important to still find the time to do your home’s outdoor maintenance. Roof maintenance is important to ensure your roof holds up against the summer heat and is prepared for the fall and winter months ahead.

Inspect for and Remove Fungus, Algae, or Mold

Like with any season change, you should always inspect your roof for any fungus, algae, or mold that may have accumulated on top of your roof. These are more typical during the summer months with the storms that pass thru. Also inspect your roof for any storm debris left behind such as limbs, birds nest, or leaves that can clog up your gutters. After you have inspected the roof remove whatever is present. It is probably best to perform this task, or any roofing task during the hotter months, earlier in the morning before it becomes too hot.

Inspect Shingles and Metal Stripping

Along with debris, summer storms can also cause shingles to loosen, crack, or go missing. Inspect your roof to ensure all your shingles are still present and are not in need of repair. The summer heat can quickly damage a shingle’s granules, the protective covering of a shingle, making them and your roof even more vulnerable. The same goes for the metal stripping on around the roof’s ridge, vents, and chimney that can become loose. If left damaged, shingles or metal stripping may lead to cracks and leaks causing bigger home issues down the road.

Check Overhanging Tree Limbs

We love the look of big, beautiful trees especially in the fall months when leaves begin to change, but our roofs do not like overhanging limbs and the potential dangers they bring. Inspect and remove any tree limbs near your roof for any low bearing or rotten limbs that might break in the months to come causing major roof damage.

Inspect Gutters

Generally speaking all aspects of your roof should be checked before the next season begins. Gutter systems are a priority roof area to be inspected for any debris that may inhibited the flow of water down the gutter. Also check on the gutters tightness and proper angle of the downspots for water to run off.

With the summer months becoming dryer and hotter each year, they have become one of the most important times for roof inspection. Your roof and roofing materials are most vulnerable to the sun, ensuring they are in the best conditions possible protects your home from the same elements. If you need assistance in your roof’s summer maintenance, contact EMA construction’s qualified roofers for a full inspection.

Pros and Cons of Roof Coatings

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Roof coatings are a protective shield for your roof against the elements.  They help to block out UV radiation, prevent water ponding, and can limit the heating and cooling cycles on top of a roof.  Essentially they are another protective layer that adheres to the roofing membrane that can stretch and return back to its original size without damage.  If you are wondering if you should coat your existing or new roof review the pros and cons below.

Pros of Roof Coatings

Increased Roof Lifespan

Roof coatings could increase the lifespan of a roof regardless at what point it is installed.  No matter if a roof coating is installed as soon as a new roof is built or a few years down the road, the coating is still beneficiary to its lifespan.  Since your roofing materials are not exposed to heat and UV rays with a roof coating it builds both strength and longevity.  With a coating, those materials are less likely to break down over the years.

Reduced Cooling Expenses

A roof coating acts as a barrier between the natural elements and the roof of a home.  With less UV rays and heat penetrating the roof, a home’s inside temperatures can greatly decrease air conditioning costs indoors.  This helps the home be overall more energy efficient as well.

Increased Waterproofing Protection

Low-slope roofs tend to experience areas where water can “pond” or collect in one area at a time.  This can cause many roofing membranes to deteriorate quicker and create leaks within a roof.  A roof coating can help to protect your roof from experiencing these types of ponds and increase the overall waterproofing of a roof.  If your roof is already experiencing these type of issues, you can repair them and then apply a roof coating for future protection and increased longevity.

Improving Roof Aesthetics

Roof coatings will not alter the  aesthetic of a house or structure which is typically an added bonus to homeowners.  Coatings can adhere to a number of different roofing surface types such as metal, asphalt, or wood and can actually help with the aesthetics of any older roof.  As a roof ages it may begin to fade or simply appear older, a roof coating can cover some of these unsightly appearances without a roof replacement.

Cons of Roof Coatings

Increased Costs

Obviously a roof coating can increase the costs of a current or new roof that would otherwise not be coated.  The purchase of materials and hiring of contractors or workers is an added expense some homeowners are not willing or able to pay.  Polyurethane and silicone based roof coatings tend to be the more costly coating types. 

Flammable

Some solvent-based roof coatings can be highly flammable due to the chemicals they contain.  Make sure when applying, transporting, and storing solvent-based coatings to be extremely careful and aware of the potential hazards.

Inexperienced Roofing Contractors

There have been known to be unreliable roofing contractors or handymen to replace a roof coating with a simple tar and engine oil mixture.  Be aware about who you are about hire to apply a roof coating to ensure you do not fall into a scam.  Your chance of this is small, but spending time researching your options and being knowledgeable of the quality of work to expect will greatly increase your odds of not becoming a victim. 

If you are considering a roof coating, contact EMA Construction for more information and options for your home’s roof.  EMA Construction’s qualified roofers are able to advise you based on your needs and make sure you’ll get the most life out of your roof and best value for your dollar.

Pros and Cons: Metal Roofs

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There are a variety of roofing materials for homeowners to choose from. The traditional, more common ones being asphalt, wood, and tile. But what about the non-traditional residential roofing materials? One that has become more and more popular with homeowners is metal roofing (tin, zinc, aluminum, copper, or galvanized steel). We will examine the pros and cons of metal roofs in order to give you a better idea of what is available to use on your residential roofing project.

Pros of a Metal Roof

Metal roofing materials have a number of benefits that are attractive to homeowners.

Life Expectancy

A metal roof that has been properly installed can last as long as a home with up to 50 years. This is a big benefit for homeowners as they can be assured that their roof will resist strong winds, snow, fire, insects, rot, and mildew for majority if not the whole time they are living in it. Metal roofs give homeowners a piece of mind that they will not have to replace their roof in a handful of years the way they would have to with traditional roofing materials like asphalt.

Durability

One of the factors that makes metal roofs life expectancy longer is its durability that other roofing materials do not possess. Metal roofs can can stand up to strong winds as much as 140 miles per hour, do not corrode, or crack. Metal roofs also typically do not need the sort of maintenance schedules and repair like other traditional roofs do.

Installation Time

To benefit of both the homeowner and the roofing contractor, metal roofs can be installed very quickly. Metal roofs can be installed by as much 2 days quicker than traditional roofs because of their lightweight material that typically comes in sections in 12 to 36 inch wide panels. The lightweight material of metal roofs also allow homes to have a reduced number of roofing support beams within it since there is not as much weight to hold up. Metal roofs can also be applied on top of other roofing materials without removing those beforehand which can result in an even quicker installation time.

Fire Resistant

Most metal roofs have a Class A, non combustible fire rating which is the most resistant. Please keep in mind though that this does not mean you entire roof is fire resistant because other elements within the roofing structure could not be resistant and still result in home fires or intense heat, especially if old roofing is present under the metal roof.

Energy Efficient

Metal roofs reflect heat from the sun which in turn decreases indoor temperatures. This can typically save you around 10-25% in cooling costs.

Shedding of Snow

Metal roofs are ideal in snow heavy environments because they can easily shed off snow and rain thanks to their metal panels that interlock and their metal surfaces. The major benefit of shedding snow and rain is that potential home water damage is greatly decreased since it does not stay “sitting” on your roof or penetrating the inside of your home.

Environmentally Friendly

Metal roofs are mostly made up of recycled content already making them environmentally friendly. At the end of a metal roofs lifespan they can also be recycled which most traditional roofs cannot and only turn into waste.

Cons of a Metal Roof

Of course, metal roofs can come with cons as well.

Cost

A big drawback of metal roofs to most homeowners is its affordability. The initial costs of a metal roof can be two or three times more than other roofing options. Due to a metal roof’s longevity and low maintenance needs, homeowners can usually get their return on investment but only if they stay in their home for a number of years. A homeowner that installs a metal roof and moves in a few years will most likely not see any investment benefits.

Noise

Obviously a metal roof can be a bit noisy during a heavy rainstorm for the homeowners on the inside. The noise is manageable though if you want to spend a little bit more money on sound barriers such as installation or plywood sheathing.

Dents

Along with noise, hailstorms may cause denting in your metal roof depending on the material it is made out of. Aluminum and copper are more prone to dents compared to steel metal roofs.

Whenever choosing a roofing material there are always pros and cons to choose from. Hopefully you have gained some insight on metal roofs with the lists above to better decide the right material for you and your home. EMA Construction’s qualified roofers are here to advise homeowners on the best roofs for their individual homes.  If you have any questions relating to metal roofing, please contact us.

How to Know if You Need a Commercial or Residential Roofer

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Not all roofs are created equal. There are a number of different factors that classify a commercial roofer versus a residential roofer. Below we evaluate the main differences between the two.

Roofing Materials

Asphalt, tile, slate, wood, and metal are all typical roofing materials and may be used in either commercial or residential roofing projects. Commercial roofing projects more than often consider cost the most important factor and turn to lower priced materials that cover wider areas to be most cost effective. Commercial roofs are larger and require more maintenance than a residential roof so picking a suitable material with this in mind is usually the first step for a commercial roofer. With budget in mind, commercial roofers turn to materials such as the asphalt shingle and stronger materials like modified bitumen and Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer that will last for longer periods of time. Residential roofers have a wider variety of eco-friendly roofing materials to choose from.

Roof Design

It is easy to think that commercial roofs are the same as residential roofs, just on a larger scale, but this is not the case. Commercial roofs are typically flat or have the slightest slope because these types of designs are easiest to build on larger structures like shopping centers. Commercial roofs usually must factor in the weight of equipment and possible snow weight during the winter months as well. Residential roofs allow for steeper slopes and thus have more options. Due to commercial roofings flatter and larger scales, their maintenance schedule is more often than those of residential roofs that are easier to keep in good condition.

Roof Installation

Residential roofing is typically straight forward and does not vary much from roof to roof. Commercial roof installation, on the other hand, require experts knowledgeable about external piping, air flow, etc.

Roofing Costs

Obviously, commercial roofs are often more expensive overall than residential roofs purely due to their differences in size. Commercial roofs also require more expensive tools and protection equipment than residential roofs need.

Roof Contractors

Because of the differences listed above in commercial and residential roof types, contractors also vary. Contractors not experienced with commercial or residential roofs may not be able to fix any problems that arise with your specific roof type. It is always important to check with a contractor on their work history before hiring for a job type they may not feel comfortable in. Most larger roofing contractors have plenty experience in both roof types, but some smaller companies may not have the expertise needed in one area or the other.

Conclusion

EMA Construction’s qualified roofers are able to advise you on whether a commercial or residential roof is best for you. We recommend based on your needs and make sure you’ll get the most life out of your roof and best value for your dollar.

Symptoms of a Failing Roof

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Roofs naturally get damaged overtime, but how do you know if your roof is failing your home?Here are some symptoms your roof may show if it is in need of repair or replacement.

A Roof’s Age

Typically roofs can last 20-25 years so if your roof is over the age of 25, most likely it is in need of replacement.  If your roof is younger than 25 and you are not certain it needs to be replaced, consider whether the roof was built stand alone with only one layer or built on top of other roofing prior layers.  If the later is the case, it is more than likely it needs replacement.  This is due to the multiple layers of roof shingles not allowing it to be properly ventilated.    

Curled or Buckled Roofing Shingles

Any shingles that appears curled, buckled or even blistered have reached the end of their lifetime and are a key symptom in a failing roof.

Compromised Roof Valleys

Your roof’s valleys are the most valuable areas of your roof since they flow snow and water off your roof down to your gutters.  If your shingles are missing or damaged in a valley, it is most certain a sign of needing a new roof to warn off any leakage issues.

Dirty Roof Areas

Changes in your roofings color making it appear “dirty” are often due to environmental pollutants such as algae, fungus, or mold and can eat away at your shingles protective granules making your roof vulnerable to more damage. 

Overflowing Gutters

Gutters on your roof that are overflowing are a sign that your roof as a whole is not functioning correctly.  Consult with a roofing specialist to find the route of the issue and possible roof replacement.  Another sign would be water collecting at your foundation.

Shingle Granules in Gutters

Overtime shingles loose their granules, the protective shingle layer that protects it from UV rays and adds weight to the shingle to resist strong winds.  If you see a large amount of shingle granules appearing in your gutters it is a sign that your shingles have reached the end of their life span and in need of replacement.  Your roof will also appear darker in color in parts of your roof where granules are missing.

Interior Water Leaks

Many already know that if any water damage or leaking is occurring in your home it is more than likely due to a roofing issue.  Sagging ceilings or stained wood may also be a system of a failing roof.

Roof Flashing

Damage to your roof’s flashing, the areas that protect your roof when something joins to it such as your chimney, is another sign of a failing roof.  During the lifetime of a roof, flashing typically needs replacement at one time or another.  A metal flashing system, opposed to rubber or tar flashing.

Increases in Heating or Cooling Bills

Significant changes in your home’s heating or cooling bill may be due to roof damage.  A damaged roof will allow cold air in during the winter months, increasing your heating costs or insufficiently ventilating your home in the summer months causing your cooling system to run excessively.

A failing roof is not something to go ignored as it can cause major issues in your home.  A roof works hard for your home as long as it can but eventually will always have to be replaced or repaired.  Contact EMA construction’s qualified roofing team if you notice any of the systems of a failing roof.

Roofing Maintenance Myths

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Roof maintenance is the best way to care for your roof as a homeowner.  There are though a number of roof maintenance myths that could actually cause costly damages to your roof and shorten its lifespan.  We are going to debunk the more common myths to insure your roof gets the best possible care.

Pressure Washing

Pressure washing is actually more harmful than helpful to your roof.  Many believe that by power washing their roof they are cleaning and removing any mold or algae that may have formed.  Pressure washing a roof actually can result in water getting trapped under your shingles creating in mold and mildew formation.  The power of the washer can also strip away the granules on asphalt shingles that is meant to protect it from weather elements such as sun, rain and wind.  Pressure washing might appear great at first but it will quickly shorten the lifespan of your home’s roof.

Lifetime Warranty of a Tile Roof

While the actual tiles on your roof may have a lifetime warranty, the roof itself does not.  The construction elements of your roof will not last a lifetime, specifically the underneath the tile is laid on top of.  After years of climate conditions, the underneath of your roof will get worn away and brittle and need to be replaced.  You can save the tiles as long as they continue to look in good shape and none have broken due to a storm or other causes.

Dissolving Asphalt Shingles

If your roof appears to have black streaks running down it, it is not due to your asphalt shingles dissolving.  It is actually the first sign of algae growing on your roof and it is best to call to get it inspected and removed if needed.

Moss and Algae are Signs You Need a New Roof

Signs of moss and algae on your roof do not automatically mean you need a new roof.  Most of the times, roofs can easily be professionally cleaned to remove the moss or algae and restored to their beautiful selves again.  Contact a roofing expert, like EMA Home Services, to inspect the roof and get you in touch with a professional roof cleaning company.

Roof Moss is Only Cosmetic

As mentioned previously, roof moss can easily be cleaned by a professional.  Some homeowners are under the impression that roof moss is only a visible problem and can cause no real harm to their roof’s lifespan.  This is a myth.  Roof moss not only is visually unattractive but it can wear away or block the shingle granules that protect your roof from UV rays.  If your roof is unprotected from UV rays, it will eventually shorten the lifespan of your roof and cause your attic to heat up thus causing you more money on your AC bills.

Roof Maintenance Programs Are a Waste of Money

If you have recently had to re-roof your house, you know it is a large investment.  You want your roof to last as long as possible, and to do so it needs to be properly maintained.  Whether using a professional or doing it yourself roof maintenance is important not just for the lifespan of your roof, but also to ensure manufacturer warranties and insurance claims down the road if need be.

EMA Construction’s qualified roofers are here to advise homeowners on roof maintenance to ensure the best possible roof and longevity.  If you have any questions relating to roof maintenance please contact us.

Common Roof Leak Locations

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Leaks in a new or old roof are never to be taken lightly.  Besides causing havoc on your home every time it rains, it is more than likely a hint at a larger roofing problem, which can then cause havoc on your finances.  Knowing the common locations of roof leaks could be the difference between a small home repair or an entire new roof. 

Flashing

Your roofing’s flashing, long, thin sheets of metal used as water-resistant barriers underneath your shingles, can break causing large cracks that allow water in.  Flashing can be concealed with tar that can sometimes corrode with time.  In the event that your flashing is exposed,  wind and rain can cause a crack thus resulting in a roof leak. 

How To Fix

If the flashing is severely corroded, it will need to be replaced which usually requires shingle removal which may best be performed by your roofing contractor.  Minimal corroded flashing can easily be fixed with roofing cement by applying it in the smaller corroded holes or cracks.  For larger cracks use the cement to adhere another piece of flashing on top of the damaged area and then covering the newer flashing piece with more cement on top.

Shingles

Shingles are the first line of defense against the weather like rain and wind that can bear on your roof.  Missing shingles can be the first sign of a leak and are easiest for a homeowner to spot by simply scanning their rooftop.  You may even spot your roof shingles on your lawn.   

How To Fix

Replacement of the broken or missing shingles will fix instantly. 

Valleys

Roof valleys are very prone to leaks since it is the place where water accumulates before running off into the gutters.  When a leak occurs at a valley it is typically due to poor structure in the beginning or erosion overtime that allows water to enter as it runs down the roof.

How To Fix

This leak location is best fixed by a qualified roofer due to the complexity of the task where they will most likely lay a new valley barrier and lay new shingling on top.  If you can find the source of the leak by looking for wet spots along the seams, you may be able to apply a temporary fix with roof sealant or cement without having to remove any shingles.  This is a short period, temporary fix and you should contact your contractor right away for a long-term fix. 

Vents

A roof vent is the small pipe sticking out of your roof meant to rid of excess water from inside your home.  They are usually sealed with flashing and a rubber “boot” where the vent pokes out of your roof.  These again, can become cracked or decayed overtime creating leaks in your roof.  When a leak occurs due to your vent, it will usually leave dark spots and a mustiness in your attic. 

How To Fix

A vent leak can easily be fixed by replacing the boot and flashing with a new one. 

Skylights

Skylights are prone to leaking since they by nature penetrate the surface of a roof.  The area around a roof skylight can begin leaking due to improper installation or decay of insulation around the skylight area.  Skylights usually come with flashing from the skylight manufactures and the seal between the flashing and your roof is known to originate leaks.

How To Fix

When checking your skylight for leaks, clear any debris around or on the skylight and look for cracks or holes that can be caulked.  If none are visible, move on to inspect the skylight flashing and replace as needed.

Gutters

Clogged gutters cannot prevent water from running off your roof, thus pooling the water in one area of your roof leading to leaks.  You may be able to view the gutter blockage from the ground but more than often it is unseen and why cleaning your gutters regularly is so important.

How To Fix

Clean your gutters routinely for debris.

Catching a leak early can save you both time and money.  Add these most common roof leak locations to your home maintenance checklist to catch a leak as soon as it begins.  If you cannot locate the origin of the roof leak or need assistance in fixing it, contact EMA Construction’s qualified roofing team.

Pros and Cons: Asphalt Shingle Roofs

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Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are one of the most popular used roofing materials because their cost up front is inexpensive and they are typically easy to install.  They are mostly composed of composite material rather than wood, slate, metal plastic, or fibre cement.  Asphalt shingles come in flat, rectangular shapes that are laid from the bottom of the roof towards the top with each line overlapping the joints of the other shingles below it.

There are two types of composition or asphalt shingles, organic or fiberglass.  The difference in the two are their composition and technique of waterproofing the shingles.  Organic shingles are made up of waste paper that has been saturated with asphalt to enforce waterproofing with adhesive salt and granules embedded on the top layer.  Fiberglass shingles, on the other hand, are composed of glass fiber that has been coated in asphalt containing mineral fillers that make it waterproof.  Fiberglass shingles are becoming more common because they offer fire protection and are more eco-friendly than organic asphalt shingles. 

Pros

Affordable – The biggest advantage of asphalt shingles to most homeowners is their affordability.  They are the least expensive shingle option and can typically last 12 to 17 years when properly installed.

Variety – Asphalt shingles come in a variety of colors, textures, and thicknesses.  There are three main varieties of asphalt shingles.  The most basic 3-tab shingles have a recognizable 3-tab pattern and cost the least amount.  The architectural shingle mimics a natural looking wood or slate shingle with a 3-dimensional feel.  The most expensive and stylish type of asphalt shingles are the premium style shingle.  Asphalt shingles are available in an assortment of colors like blue, red, yellow, and green.

Easy Installation – Compared to other types of shingle installation, asphalt shingles are relatively simple to install.  There are no special tools, skills, or structural elements needed and even skilled homeowners are able to install in a few days.  Since asphalt shingles are more easily installed than other shingle options, the cost of installation is usually much cheaper as well. 

Mold Treatment – A pro of asphalt shingles many do not think of is their ability to be easily treated for mold and mildew.

Recyclable – The process of removing roofing shingles to save for reuse into other products such as pavement is known as shingle recycling.  The main purpose of shingle recycling is to ensure the valuable resources used to produce asphalt shingles are not put in a landfill.  It is both eco-friendly and convenient to the homeowners when shingles can be recycled.

Cons

Weather – A big and sometimes costly disadvantage to asphalt shingles are their sensitivity to weather, hot or cold.  When installed in freezing temperatures, asphalt shingles can be easily damaged before they are even on your roof.  On the other hand, in extremely hot weather they can crack and loose much of their color after being installed on a house.  Asphalt shingles are also very susceptible to uplift during strong wind conditions.

Maintenance –  Asphalt shingles require a good deal of maintenance since they are not as durable or long lasting as other shingle types made of metal, cedar, slate or title.  Maintenance and repairs of asphalt shingles are best performed prior to rain or snow where further damage could occur.

Not Environmentally Friendly – Since asphalt shingles are a petroleum based product they are not an eco-friendly roofing material.  During manufacturing their production wastes energy and exacerbates green house gas emissions.  If they are not recycled they will end up in landfills where they are un-disposable. 

Conclusion

When considering asphalt shingles or any other type of shingle, EMA Construction’s qualified roofers are here to advise you on what will work best for your home’s style and needs.

Know Your Roofs: Sloping Roof Types

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Roofs can be categorized into two categories depending on their general shape, flat roof or sloping roof.  Flat roofs are more common in commercial buildings while sloping roofs are more common in residential properties.  Sloping roofs can have a variety of shapes and styles depending on the home’s needs and aesthetics.

Pitch of a Roof

The pitch or slope of a roof is mathematically understood as the rise over the run and written as   4/12, 4:12, 4 in 12, or 4 over 12 where 4 is the rise and 12 is the run.  The normal pitch of a roof is somewhere between 4/12 and 9/12, anything under 4 is considered a low slope while anything over 9 is steep.  Any pitch roof lower than 2/12 is a flat roof.

So what pitch should you choose for your roof?  Your architecture will be the best resource in determining the pitch of your roof.  They will factor in many details including materials used in building the house.  They will also consider the climate you live in.  A roof that is too flat in colder climates will not allow snow to slide off of it, possibly causing the roof to collapse due to the weight of a snow.  If a roof’s slope is too steep though, it can cause a hazard of snow falling off the sides too quickly and on top of people below.  An experienced architect will be able to determine what pitch is right for the design of the house as well as its functionality.

Types of Sloping Roofs

Believe it or not there are many different types of sloping roofs, each having their own pros and cons.  We will go over the most popular types here.

Gable Roofs

The most popular slopping roof is the gable roof, which has two rectangles of the same size that join at the edge creating the slope.  The result is a pleasing and balanced roof that can be found in many different kinds of materials.  The biggest pro of the gable roof is it is a simple design making it easy to construct and less expensive.  The steepness of their slope allows for water and snow to be easily shed and the space created for an attic or vaulted ceilings within the home.  The alternative of the steep pitch is it is more liable to wind and not ideal to ares of the country that experience tornadoes. 

Salt Box Roof

The salt box roof does not differ much from the gable roof except for that one of the roof panels is longer than the other resulting in a steeper pitch with a more distinct look.  This style of sloped roof was most popular in the Colonial era and not seen today as much in newly constructed homes.  You will see it most option on garages, sheds, or outbuildings.  A pro of the salt box roof is the distinguished look it gives to a home in both modern and rustic environments.    Since the slope is near the end of the home, the roof’s pitch needs to meet the walls that frame the rear which will also give you an interior ceiling that slopes.  Consider the slope of that interior ceiling when planning your home because it will hinder you from storage areas like attics.

Gambrel Roof

The Dutch origin of the gambrel roof allows for two different slope pitches on the same house.  While it has two twin roof panels like the gable roof, they are not straight creating an upper slope angle that is wide and a lower, steeper slope angle.  The effect is that the second levels of the home are spacier while still having the appearance of a sloped roof.  The gambrel roof is most often seen larger homes, are easy to frame, and boast excellent drainage.  The biggest con to the gambrel roof is its frequent demand for maintenance.

Mansard Roof

Similar to the gambrel roof is the mansard roof, but with four sloping sides resulting in a slope on all sides.  The steepest angle being present at the lower slope and the wider angle on the upper.  Mansard roof designs automatically leave room in your home for attics that can be converted into extra bedrooms or loft areas easily.  These sloping roofs are more complex to build thus costing more in labor and materials. 

Pyramid Roof

Another four sloping sided roof, is the pyramid roof.  As its name suggests it forms a pyramid shape.  A pyramid roof is best for smaller structures and are more and more popular in contemporary architecture.  A big pro of the pyramid roof is it results in a more energy efficient home because the roof overhangs on all sides providing shade in the warmer weather months. The pyramid roof is the more expensive sloped roofing type since its shape results in more surface area than others but less space for attics and storage.

Sloping roof types can have many different factors and options to choose from.  Be sure to consult your architect or EMA Construction’s qualified roofers when deciding which type will fit your home best. 

How to Pick a Shingle Color

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The best advice when choosing a shingle color for your roof is to pick the one you like the bes, you are going to have to live with the decision for 20 to 30 years or more! No matter if your roof is metal, slate, or asphalt, there are a number of color choices to pick from in different shades and hues.

Here are some tips to picking the color of your roof’s shingles:

Consider The Climate

Your roof’s color can alter the temperature of your attic by 20 to 40 degrees and effect your home’s overall heating and cooling. The greatest difference is found when comparing dark vs. light roofing colors, while the in-between grays and browns do not show as big of a difference in tempature. Typically lighter shingles reflect sunlight more and keep home temperatures down while darker shingles absorb heat and help warm a home during the colder months.

Know Your Home’s Style

Your home’s style is an obvious sign as to which shingle style and color you should lean more towards. There are a number of companies today that offer roof planning tools to assist in finding the best roofing option for different styles of homes. These are typically software based and involve providing a picture of your home or similar style selection to view different colored roofs. When shopping for your roofing material make it a point to inquire about these helpful tools to assist in your roofing decisions.

Complement The Colors of Your Home

The color of your roof plays an important role in the overall tone of your house. The goal is to complement the colors of your home rather than to match them exactly which can leave your exterior feeling monotone and boring. Brick, paint, and existing siding colors should all be considered before deciding on the color of your shingles. Place the samples on your roof where these elements meet together in order to compare all the colors of your home at once.

If the other elements of your home are busy with multicolor tones, then consider a single shingle color that will not be too overwhelming to the eye. In comparison, if your exterior is already feeling monotone, a vivid, multicolor shingle can add some visual interest and curb appeal. Typically, dark gray or black shingles work well with blue or white colored homes for the more traditional feel while green, red, or yellow painted homes allow more flexibility to choose between brown, gray or black shingles.

View Different Shingle Samples

Examine your top shingle choices in person. Compare your choices with your current roof shingles to see how they might differ or vary. View your samples in both the sun and shade to make sure you like the color in all forms of lighting.

Consider Your Neighbors

Your surrounding neighbors can potentially be greatly impacted by your choice of roofing style and color. It is important to consider how your home’s roof will complement your neighborhood as well. This is both for the good of your overall neighborhood as well as the resale value of your home. If you plan to sell your house, an eye-catching brightly colored roof may deter future buyers. On the other hand, try not to clone your closest neighbors with home style and roofing color creating a duplicate feel in the neighborhood. It is best to be harmonious and not clash while still staying individual.

Conclusion

Take your time choosing the color of your roof’s shingles, it is just as important as any other exterior element of your home and will outlast most of the other choices you make. EMA Construction’s qualified roofers are able to advise you on the different color options and what compliments your home best.