Solar cell roofing made from solar shingles or solar panels is being increasingly incorporated into the construction of new residential and commercial buildings. In many areas, people are choosing to replace their conventional roof with a solar roof when it is time for maintenance. And most of these people would tell you that the long-term value, or short-term increase is resale interest, made it worthwhile.
A solar cell roof is called "building integrated", also known by the more complete name "building integrated photovoltaic" (BIPV). BIPV suggests that you would have needed that part of the structure built anyway, and you've chosen to use material that will also serve the purpose of generating power through solar energy. The first advantage of solar cell shingles or panels on the roof is obvious: some of the initial cost is paid by lowering the overall material and labor costs involved in the construction. The second advantage is that the BIPV does not stand out - it is a normal and expected part of the design and structure of the building. These two advantages often make bipv solar roofing the clear choice over rooftop wind turbines, raised solar panels, and backyard windmills which both stand out and cost a lot more to build and install.
In some parts of the world, often due to government subsidies, many new houses are built with solar roofs. Until recently, this was not the case in the U.S., UK, and much of Europe because the cost remained prohibitive. However, with the invention of what is called "thin film solar technology", solar roofing tiles, panels and shingles have become easier to fabricate and work with and are much more aesthetically pleasing. This technology is best for pitched roofs where shingles or small tiles are the norm. Large flat roofs, such as the tops of many commercial buildings, can have one giant layer of solar film, or large integrated panels.
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Monday, November 22, 2010
Let's Compare Roofing Materials
The materials that you choose for the roofing of your house are of critical importance, whether you are building a new property or replacing an existing one.
The roofing protects your house from the weather and also becomes a part of the insulation of the building and can have an effect on your heating bills. The types of material you choose can also have insurance implications as there is a greater risk of fire associated with some types. One important factor to consider is the location of your property as different types of materials works well in various locations. If you are familiar with an area you will also be aware of the types of materials that are used on most of the properties in that area. If you are not an expert, it is always worth speaking to a professional in the area and asking for his advice.
When considering this type of project, you will need to decide if you are going to do the job yourself or you plan on calling a professional roofing contractor. Remember even though you have the best materials in the world, if not installed correctly, they will be a waste of money and materials. Trying to mend or replace parts of the roofs once it is fit, can cost a fortune and prove to be very difficult.
In the present economic climate a lot of people are looking at having solar panels incorporated into their roofing. As well as being environmentally friendly, they can also save you money on your bills once they are installed.
Tiles are one of the most popular forms of material. They are durable, fireproof and available in many different styles and colors.
Metal is of course very strong and will last a life time and is also highly fire resistant. It is used in a lot of commercial as well as residential premises. As its popularity grows, so does the number of colors and styles to choose from.
Fiberglas shingles are replacing the traditional asphalt shingles that were used on a large proportion of homes earlier.
The roofing protects your house from the weather and also becomes a part of the insulation of the building and can have an effect on your heating bills. The types of material you choose can also have insurance implications as there is a greater risk of fire associated with some types. One important factor to consider is the location of your property as different types of materials works well in various locations. If you are familiar with an area you will also be aware of the types of materials that are used on most of the properties in that area. If you are not an expert, it is always worth speaking to a professional in the area and asking for his advice.
When considering this type of project, you will need to decide if you are going to do the job yourself or you plan on calling a professional roofing contractor. Remember even though you have the best materials in the world, if not installed correctly, they will be a waste of money and materials. Trying to mend or replace parts of the roofs once it is fit, can cost a fortune and prove to be very difficult.
In the present economic climate a lot of people are looking at having solar panels incorporated into their roofing. As well as being environmentally friendly, they can also save you money on your bills once they are installed.
Tiles are one of the most popular forms of material. They are durable, fireproof and available in many different styles and colors.
Metal is of course very strong and will last a life time and is also highly fire resistant. It is used in a lot of commercial as well as residential premises. As its popularity grows, so does the number of colors and styles to choose from.
Fiberglas shingles are replacing the traditional asphalt shingles that were used on a large proportion of homes earlier.
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Evaluating Your Roof
If you feel your roof is reaching that 20-year mark, take some time to evaluate it carefully. Go into your attic and inspect the underside of the roof deck for stains and wet spots that indicate small leaks are present. Roof leaks appear dry with dark rings on the edges, somewhat like a coffee stains. Spotting leaks at this point is always better than spotting them when they are substantial enough to drip onto your ceilings.
If you can walk on your roof, take a walk to see if the surface looks good. Inspect the surface granules on your shingles. If they are wearing off, your roof is nearing the end of its expected lifespan and will need to be repaired or replaced. If the shingles are starting to warp and curl, you need to think about having a roofing contractor give you an estimate on roof repair as soon as possible, because you are nearing the point where repair is not possible and you will have to fully replace the roof.
If you find that you need a new roof, consider hiring a qualified roofing contractor, rather than a general handyman. This improves the likelihood that the job will be done well, and it also helps your new roof to have a longer life expectancy. It's far better to pay a little more now and have the roof last longer, than to face the need to replace it again not far down the road.
If you can walk on your roof, take a walk to see if the surface looks good. Inspect the surface granules on your shingles. If they are wearing off, your roof is nearing the end of its expected lifespan and will need to be repaired or replaced. If the shingles are starting to warp and curl, you need to think about having a roofing contractor give you an estimate on roof repair as soon as possible, because you are nearing the point where repair is not possible and you will have to fully replace the roof.
If you find that you need a new roof, consider hiring a qualified roofing contractor, rather than a general handyman. This improves the likelihood that the job will be done well, and it also helps your new roof to have a longer life expectancy. It's far better to pay a little more now and have the roof last longer, than to face the need to replace it again not far down the road.
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Your Roof's Lifespan
If you have a roof, you need to understand its expected lifespan in order to make wise decisions about roof repairs and roof replacement needs. The roofing materials and many other factors play a role in the length of time your roof should last. For instance, asphalt-based shingles can usually last up to 50 years, while older used materials last closer to 15. Understanding these factors is crucial before making any decisions regarding your roof.
Materials
Asphalt and metal are the longest-lasting materials on your roof. Wood shakes are some of the shortest-lived roofs, with a life span of 14 to 20 years. High quality asphalt roofing materials can last between 20 and 50 years, depending on your location. Metal roofs can last between 40 and 50 years. In most situations, however, a roof is not made from pure asphalt or pure metal, so it will need to be replaced at around the 20-year mark.
Other Factors
Other factors play a role in how long your roof will last. Roofing material that is exposed to frequent weather changes will not last as long as material that is in a fairly mild climate. Extremes of any sort, whether it be cold, heat, humidity, or precipitation, will wear away your roof faster than its expected lifespan. The peak of the roof also plays a roll, as it impacts how directly the roof is exposed to the elements.
In addition, the quality of the workmanship used when installing the roof will play a role. If plywood decking is used, the roof may last longer than if composite is used. The quality of the underlayment also plays a role, and should be chosen based on the environmental factors that will affect the roof.
Materials
Asphalt and metal are the longest-lasting materials on your roof. Wood shakes are some of the shortest-lived roofs, with a life span of 14 to 20 years. High quality asphalt roofing materials can last between 20 and 50 years, depending on your location. Metal roofs can last between 40 and 50 years. In most situations, however, a roof is not made from pure asphalt or pure metal, so it will need to be replaced at around the 20-year mark.
Other Factors
Other factors play a role in how long your roof will last. Roofing material that is exposed to frequent weather changes will not last as long as material that is in a fairly mild climate. Extremes of any sort, whether it be cold, heat, humidity, or precipitation, will wear away your roof faster than its expected lifespan. The peak of the roof also plays a roll, as it impacts how directly the roof is exposed to the elements.
In addition, the quality of the workmanship used when installing the roof will play a role. If plywood decking is used, the roof may last longer than if composite is used. The quality of the underlayment also plays a role, and should be chosen based on the environmental factors that will affect the roof.
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
A Checklist for Your New Roof
Installing shingles is a job that needs to be done with the utmost care. Making sure you are ready to shingle is the first thing that needs to be addressed. Go through these details before starting to shingle a roof. Make sure you have verified the contract with the homeowner. Listing the correct shingle type, the correct color, and detailing all the finishes and tiny details that go along with the job. Make sure that the job site is safe. The ladders and/or scaffolds should be secure; the job site itself should be in a well organized manner and safe. The homeowner should also be aware of any hazardous areas. The roofing material should be properly stored at all times and fall protection is needed to be put in place.
The deck should be dry and flat before starting any shingle installation job. The under-layment's that protect the deck are to be properly installed using weather watch or storm guard leak barrier, and also using shingle-mate or deck armor roof deck protection should be laying flat and not buckle up. The drip edge has to be flush to the deck to be considered properly installed. The roof deck protection should be over the eaves and under the rake edge.
Starting to shingle is where you should start the job. The back of the roof, which should be the least visible area to work out any unusual details. Do corner your team; roofers work the fastest when reaching across their bodies. Left handed roofers are faster starting on the right; right handed roofers are faster starting on their left.
The deck should be dry and flat before starting any shingle installation job. The under-layment's that protect the deck are to be properly installed using weather watch or storm guard leak barrier, and also using shingle-mate or deck armor roof deck protection should be laying flat and not buckle up. The drip edge has to be flush to the deck to be considered properly installed. The roof deck protection should be over the eaves and under the rake edge.
Starting to shingle is where you should start the job. The back of the roof, which should be the least visible area to work out any unusual details. Do corner your team; roofers work the fastest when reaching across their bodies. Left handed roofers are faster starting on the right; right handed roofers are faster starting on their left.
Sunday, November 14, 2010
The Roofing System
A new roof is a totally complex, integrated system of components that protects your biggest investment, your home. A complete roofing system has many components that make up the roofing system. The roof deck, a premium roof deck protection, protective leak barrier, pre-cut starter shingles, quality roofing shingles, attic ventilation, ridge cap shingles, reliable low slope membrane, and accessory paint.
A roof deck is the structural part of the home itself. It is usually made of plywood and protects the home from the elements. One of the most vulnerable parts of any roof would be where any two surfaces come together or where any pipes or skylights come into the roof. This can also be in the valleys. All these places are where water can sneak in; GAF offers a roof leak barrier that actually molds itself to the roof. If you live in an area of high winds you should put the leak barriers at both the eaves and the rakes of the roof.
The roof deck protection is a component you cannot see. Roof deck leak protection is like insurance for your shingles. Regular roof tar paper can rip, wrinkle, and buckle under the shingles. Instead, GAF offers a great alternative to regular tar paper. Trapped moisture can cause decay and rot. Using GAF's special advanced synthetic product will protect the roof for many years to come.
Starter strips are the most unappreciated roofing product. You have to lay a row of starter strips before you start laying the shingles so to keep the first row of regular shingles from blowing off in a strong wind. For maximum protection you will also need to install starter strips at the rakes. This can really make a difference in the life of your roof.
A roof deck is the structural part of the home itself. It is usually made of plywood and protects the home from the elements. One of the most vulnerable parts of any roof would be where any two surfaces come together or where any pipes or skylights come into the roof. This can also be in the valleys. All these places are where water can sneak in; GAF offers a roof leak barrier that actually molds itself to the roof. If you live in an area of high winds you should put the leak barriers at both the eaves and the rakes of the roof.
The roof deck protection is a component you cannot see. Roof deck leak protection is like insurance for your shingles. Regular roof tar paper can rip, wrinkle, and buckle under the shingles. Instead, GAF offers a great alternative to regular tar paper. Trapped moisture can cause decay and rot. Using GAF's special advanced synthetic product will protect the roof for many years to come.
Starter strips are the most unappreciated roofing product. You have to lay a row of starter strips before you start laying the shingles so to keep the first row of regular shingles from blowing off in a strong wind. For maximum protection you will also need to install starter strips at the rakes. This can really make a difference in the life of your roof.
Friday, November 12, 2010
Go Green With Your Roof!
The US Environment Protection Agency (EPA) has been trying to come up with roof materials and plans which help to save energy. Since it is the only part of the building which remains exposed to sun, it tends to absorb a lot of energy thereby increasing cooling costs.
Environmental Benefits Of Green Roofs
Apart from a marked decrease in cooling costs, green roofing technology has helped reduce heat loss and energy consumption during winter months also. They help bring down storm water run-off and filter pollutants especially carbon dioxide out of the air.
They also help increase the life span of the roof and also contribute to LEED points for the building. Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification provides independent, third-party verification for your building project and determines if the building is indeed environmentally responsible, profitable and a healthy place to live and work at.
Green Roofs - Save Money and the Environment
Generally, it consists of a vegetative layer grown on rooftops. These roofs provide shade and help reduce heat and temperature of the surface and surrounding air. Depending on the load capabilities and the structure of your building, many include a variety of grasses, flowers or trees of different heights. In these systems, plants and soil replace the conventional roof coverings and the same layer of plants and soil protects the water proofing membrane.
Installing a green roof is a complex task and it is best to consult a landscape architect and an independent roofing contractor to analyze the effectiveness for your home or office.
Environmental Benefits Of Green Roofs
Apart from a marked decrease in cooling costs, green roofing technology has helped reduce heat loss and energy consumption during winter months also. They help bring down storm water run-off and filter pollutants especially carbon dioxide out of the air.
They also help increase the life span of the roof and also contribute to LEED points for the building. Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification provides independent, third-party verification for your building project and determines if the building is indeed environmentally responsible, profitable and a healthy place to live and work at.
Green Roofs - Save Money and the Environment
Generally, it consists of a vegetative layer grown on rooftops. These roofs provide shade and help reduce heat and temperature of the surface and surrounding air. Depending on the load capabilities and the structure of your building, many include a variety of grasses, flowers or trees of different heights. In these systems, plants and soil replace the conventional roof coverings and the same layer of plants and soil protects the water proofing membrane.
Installing a green roof is a complex task and it is best to consult a landscape architect and an independent roofing contractor to analyze the effectiveness for your home or office.
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Check With a Real Advantage Construction
Check with A Real Advantage Construction for the following:
1. Ask for more details on metal roofing.
2. Seek an explanation about shingles and the composite material used in the same.
3. Check for a good ventilation system.
4. Ask for guarantees and read the contract well.
5. Insist on timely delivery and fixing.
Your apprehensions will be well answered by the efficient team of roofers. On site too, you could inspect the material used. Usually for maintenance, the senior supervisor will visit your house and give you an estimate of the repairs and maintenance. Extra costs for replacement will be given to you with proper billing. Do you wish to take care of your attic? Most roofing companies gladly extend the service for attic requirements. They will give you an estimate on the phone too.
You can get the details from us via email. These websites will as you to fill in some details and you can get the instant estimation. Since the brilliant team at the customer service standards your time and money, they keep themselves updated with the recent styles in roofing. For further information, you can also visit their office. The special job is the commercial roofing. Professionals at the roofing company will give you varied options. They give you an estimate for completion of the job. Look into the tapered roof systems and the asphalt types.
1. Ask for more details on metal roofing.
2. Seek an explanation about shingles and the composite material used in the same.
3. Check for a good ventilation system.
4. Ask for guarantees and read the contract well.
5. Insist on timely delivery and fixing.
Your apprehensions will be well answered by the efficient team of roofers. On site too, you could inspect the material used. Usually for maintenance, the senior supervisor will visit your house and give you an estimate of the repairs and maintenance. Extra costs for replacement will be given to you with proper billing. Do you wish to take care of your attic? Most roofing companies gladly extend the service for attic requirements. They will give you an estimate on the phone too.
You can get the details from us via email. These websites will as you to fill in some details and you can get the instant estimation. Since the brilliant team at the customer service standards your time and money, they keep themselves updated with the recent styles in roofing. For further information, you can also visit their office. The special job is the commercial roofing. Professionals at the roofing company will give you varied options. They give you an estimate for completion of the job. Look into the tapered roof systems and the asphalt types.
Monday, November 8, 2010
Replacing Your Roof!
Are you planning to replace your roof. You can check the tiled effect roofs. They give you a stylish look and they can also withstand to any wind conditions or a rainy climate. But is the main factor when you consider these materials. The adhesives, hinges and all the new quality in roof building material are checked. The key asset of this roof is its durability. Be it any type of construction the cleaning is a mandatory aspect, the company sees to it that the entire place to ensure that there is no residue of nails, adhesive or particles of roof. If it is done properly there is no damage caused to your patio, plants or other facade of your house.
A good brand name is attached with the New York roofing company because they use a genuine material. It thereby extends the area of security to your house. You must check out the new schemes available in roofing if you are to build a new house or a villa. You can plan your roof to be in an artistic way especially if it is a farmhouse or a holiday home. Just flip the pages of the catalog to know the creative ideas in roof. You must select a roof which needs to be very neat in its concept and compressed in nature.
The imperative criteria of a home buyer is the roof and walls of a room. Consequently your part in investing a roof is indispensable as you're asking rate in case of sale that you can get a superior roof. If you are much bothered about your peace of mind then a good piece of roof can do that. In certain situation you might have urgent requirement for fixing a roof, then you may contact your nearest New York roofing company. If you see them since they are professionals time is never a constraint. The roofing company will serve you as an urgent requirement, if there is an emergency.
A good brand name is attached with the New York roofing company because they use a genuine material. It thereby extends the area of security to your house. You must check out the new schemes available in roofing if you are to build a new house or a villa. You can plan your roof to be in an artistic way especially if it is a farmhouse or a holiday home. Just flip the pages of the catalog to know the creative ideas in roof. You must select a roof which needs to be very neat in its concept and compressed in nature.
The imperative criteria of a home buyer is the roof and walls of a room. Consequently your part in investing a roof is indispensable as you're asking rate in case of sale that you can get a superior roof. If you are much bothered about your peace of mind then a good piece of roof can do that. In certain situation you might have urgent requirement for fixing a roof, then you may contact your nearest New York roofing company. If you see them since they are professionals time is never a constraint. The roofing company will serve you as an urgent requirement, if there is an emergency.
Saturday, November 6, 2010
Innovative Roofing Ideas
Most roofers can be located on the internet. It is good to know that they can be contacted online. Just browse through their website to know about the ancillary things done by New York roofers. Go for an estimate and realize the importance of each type of roofing. Does you roofer give you stylistic roofing? Get the glazed effect, tiled colored roofing and other essentials about good insulation. The roof of your house does hold a necessary position and hence it is good to invest in the same.
The roof life is very important. The hinges, screws and general material has to be very dependable. Ask for any maintenance that is free! Look into the contract well so that coatings and shingles can be maintained at an economical cost in future. The wind and severe climate can cause strain on the roof. Use the cleaning service provided by roofers in your locality. Contracts for cleaning are very beneficial as they improve the life of your roof.
By what, means you can find a good roofer. Try t o keep yourself aware of the various jobs done by the New York roofing company. Just go through the testimonials to understand their reliability. You can be ensured to get best technology roofing if you are using reputed roofers who are sensitive to your timings. You can always make a choice among metal roofing. The roofers can also be contacted via landlines and they will give you a brief idea about the materials used in the roofing system. You can also make certain general inquiries about the kind of guarantee provided.
The roof life is very important. The hinges, screws and general material has to be very dependable. Ask for any maintenance that is free! Look into the contract well so that coatings and shingles can be maintained at an economical cost in future. The wind and severe climate can cause strain on the roof. Use the cleaning service provided by roofers in your locality. Contracts for cleaning are very beneficial as they improve the life of your roof.
By what, means you can find a good roofer. Try t o keep yourself aware of the various jobs done by the New York roofing company. Just go through the testimonials to understand their reliability. You can be ensured to get best technology roofing if you are using reputed roofers who are sensitive to your timings. You can always make a choice among metal roofing. The roofers can also be contacted via landlines and they will give you a brief idea about the materials used in the roofing system. You can also make certain general inquiries about the kind of guarantee provided.
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Choosing Roofing Contractors
Are you looking for good roofing contractors in New York? Given are some ways in how you can get skilled and experienced roofing contractors:
Type of Roofing
You should first decide the type of roofing you want. For instance, you can choose between asphalt and wooden shingles. Both these varieties are immensely popular among the home owners. However, your decision will also depend on your budget and style of your home.
Roofing Contractor
You should contact several roofing contractors before arriving at a decision. Ask your builder or friends for recommendations on roofing contractors. You can also contact the local builders association if you are having difficulty in finding roofing contractors. This association can suggest someone who has been in this field for many years.
Quotes for the Project
You should ask the contractors to provide quotes for the project. Provide access to your property and ask them to inspect the condition of your roofing. Ensure that all the contractors are bidding for the same roofing type. For instance, all the contractors should bid for asphalt shingles.
Add-On Costs
Ensure that the firm also includes additional costs in their bid. Some of the add-on costs that can be added are as follows:
* Removal of old roofing and shingles
* Applying roofing felt
* Trimming down nearby branches
Ask the firms to state the additional costs in advance. Keep in mind that it is not necessary to remove the existing roofing for installing a new one.
Type of Roofing
You should first decide the type of roofing you want. For instance, you can choose between asphalt and wooden shingles. Both these varieties are immensely popular among the home owners. However, your decision will also depend on your budget and style of your home.
Roofing Contractor
You should contact several roofing contractors before arriving at a decision. Ask your builder or friends for recommendations on roofing contractors. You can also contact the local builders association if you are having difficulty in finding roofing contractors. This association can suggest someone who has been in this field for many years.
Quotes for the Project
You should ask the contractors to provide quotes for the project. Provide access to your property and ask them to inspect the condition of your roofing. Ensure that all the contractors are bidding for the same roofing type. For instance, all the contractors should bid for asphalt shingles.
Add-On Costs
Ensure that the firm also includes additional costs in their bid. Some of the add-on costs that can be added are as follows:
* Removal of old roofing and shingles
* Applying roofing felt
* Trimming down nearby branches
Ask the firms to state the additional costs in advance. Keep in mind that it is not necessary to remove the existing roofing for installing a new one.
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
A Commercial Roofing Contractor
When you're looking for a roofer for your commercial roofing project you need to find a contractor who understands the special needs of a commercial roofing project. For example it can be harder to work on a business during business hours so either the business has to be shut down for the repair or replacement or the job has to be done after conventional business hours. Is the roofer you are considering for the job willing and able to work around your schedule constrictions which might involve working weekends or evenings?
When you begin your search for a roofing contractor not only do you need to answer those questions but you also want to find someone that will do a high quality job without a lot of time delays. Going about finding someone can seem like an obstacle in itself but there are some ways to make the search easier.
Ask friends and family for referrals and try to find at least three contractors to give you written bids on your job. Before you go any further you need to make sure that the contractors you are considering are fully licensed and bonded. A simple search with the state contractor's board will verify if your roofer is licensed and if there are any past judgments or claims against their license.
Once you select three or four roofers to place bids, you should prepare yourself for the bids to be widely varied. Roofers will have brand preferences that will vary and may factor in more or less than the next guy for a labor estimate. The more detailed a written bid is the more helpful it will be for you to see where the cost are going to be incurred. Don't, however, select a roofer based solely on the bid price. Any low ball bids may be tempting to take, but if they are low because of poor quality workman ship it may not be worth it in the end.
When you begin your search for a roofing contractor not only do you need to answer those questions but you also want to find someone that will do a high quality job without a lot of time delays. Going about finding someone can seem like an obstacle in itself but there are some ways to make the search easier.
Ask friends and family for referrals and try to find at least three contractors to give you written bids on your job. Before you go any further you need to make sure that the contractors you are considering are fully licensed and bonded. A simple search with the state contractor's board will verify if your roofer is licensed and if there are any past judgments or claims against their license.
Once you select three or four roofers to place bids, you should prepare yourself for the bids to be widely varied. Roofers will have brand preferences that will vary and may factor in more or less than the next guy for a labor estimate. The more detailed a written bid is the more helpful it will be for you to see where the cost are going to be incurred. Don't, however, select a roofer based solely on the bid price. Any low ball bids may be tempting to take, but if they are low because of poor quality workman ship it may not be worth it in the end.
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