When Is It Time To Replace Roof Shingles?

Roof Shingles - Jun 01,2012 - No Comment

One of the most difficult decisions a home owner must make is about replacing roof shingles. Research shows that the roof starts to age soon after roof shingles are installed. At first, the aging process is gradual and gathers speed as we go along the life cycle. Towards the end of its natural lifespan of 2 to 3 decades, the aging accelerates.

Roof shingles reach the curling phase after 10 to 15 years. Granules begin to loosen and fall out of the shingles. Blisters may appear on the surface. The edges of the roof shingles curl. During cold weather, this curling is even more prominent, and the shingles become flatter as the temperature rises.

After the curling phase, though, things don’t go downhill very fast. A somewhat stable phase of slow aging begins and this lasts for most of the rest of the shingle’s natural life. Depending upon where in this life cycle your roof is at present, you may need to repair or replace shingles.

Of course, this alone is not the only factor to consider. Roof shingles may leak or become loosened and blow off in the wind. This leads to damage of the interior of the building, making repairs more urgently necessary.

Once the roof needs replacing, it can be hard to know where to begin. If you’ve reroofed your home before, or would prefer to hire a roofing contractor, you don’t want to make expensive mistakes. There are many guides and brochures online from the roof shingles manufacturers which you can consult for more specific and detailed advice.

Finding a qualified roofer who can handle your roof shingles repair can be hard work. First, you must learn enough about the roofing materials that best suit your kind of home, in order to shortlist the most appropriate roofing contractor to take on the job. Then you must ask for referrals. If a friend, family member or professional body suggests a pro they’ve worked with, it can be your best bet. The second best option is to ask your local distributor or lumber dealer to suggest someone good.

And you should not miss reading this article about roof shingles and their repair/replacement – click here.

Asphalt Roofing Shingles – Your Guide To Asphalt Shingles

Roof Shingles - May 29,2012 - No Comment

If you have wondered what asphalt roofing shingles are and their purpose. We would like to answer your queries here. Asphalt shingles are the most popular roofing choices in America. More than 8 houses out of 10 will sport asphalt roofing. It is waterproof covering for your home. Asphalt serves as the mesh that keeps the granules in place which provide strength to shingles. The best type of asphalt roofing will remain flexible and tough even after years of exposure to sun and elements. The do not dry out or become hard and brittle during their expected life-span.

Because of their wide-spread popularity, their affordability and their ability to be mass produced on huge scales, asphalt roofing shingles have captured America’s roofing market in a big way. No other roofing comes even close to asphalt. The makers of these shingles have responded to the huge demand by making better and higher quality products. Here we will discussing the different types of roofing shingles on offer today.

Strip Shingles – These were the most commonly used shingles till a few years ago. These are single layered asphalt roofing shingles that very light weight and designed to look like slate shingles. The base of strip shingles is tough fiber glass and every shingle is tough and can’t be easily blown-off in strong winds nor torn by shear effect. These are considered the economy class in roofing shingles and are preferred by builders building budget homes. The strip shingles are also bought by homeowners as replacement for homes with strip shingles. Most major makers or asphalt shingles have major portfolio of strip shingles in different colors.

Dimensional Shingles – As the markets matured and people started looking for more options asphalt roofing shingles makers have come up with more deluxe versions of their basic shingles. Their most popular offering is the dimensional shingles which are asphalt shingles with multiple layers. This makes the shingle thicker and richer in looks department. Dimensional shingles are heavier than strip shingles and last longer. They are of better quality and can withstand the elements better. Because of their improved performance, manufacturers offer 30-years or more warranties on dimensional shingles. Every major roofing shingles makers offers dimensional shingles in a wide variety of choices in terms of texture, design and colors. Timberline from GAF is a much sought after brand.

Laminated Shingles – These are premium quality shingles that have a multi-dimensional and differentiated appearance. They differ in functionality from dimensional asphalt roofing shingles. They have been been designed to look like traditional tiles, natural slate and cedar wood shakes. They have textured appearance and old world charm of natural products without being as pricy or difficult to install like clay tile or slate shingles.

They are cut-above other asphalt roofing products in terms of looks. Functionally, they are superior in terms of impact resistance and reflection of solar rays. As result they have longer life and more energy efficient as they keep the homes cool in summer and warm in winters. Grand Manor, Presidential Shake and Centennial Slate are premium products from CertainTeed in this category.

Roofing Shingles For Sale – Finding Good Buys

Roof Shingles - May 26,2012 - No Comment

Roofing is a seasonal business and so, during the lean season you will find roofing shingles for sale at home improvement stores and roofing companies. Roofing contractors are usually busy through the peak season and you won’t find many discounts around that time. In the off-peak months roofing companies find themselves with roofers who are idle or unemployed. Even manufacturers find that their products are not moving fast enough. In order to clear out old stocks and make way for new lines of products store owners and manufacturers offer generous discounts. If you are tracking roofing shingles prices you will generally notice a drop in prices around this time. You may be able to pick some great deals if you purchase in the lean season of the roofing business.

But, again you need to think before you purchase roofing shingles for sale on your own. If you are not a DIY roofer then you have to depend on professional roofers. Roofing contractors generally factor in a small percentage of profit when buying shingles and add the installation cost to it. But, if you are buying the shingles then they might charge you extra for roofing installation. Some roofers might flat out refuse the job. As roofers buy shingles in bulk for several customers they will get shingles at a lower price which they offer it to you either at the same price or a slightly lower price. When you purchase roofing shingles you are cutting them out of their small percentage of profit which they will add to your installation cost.

Roofing Companies Roof Sales

You will find roofing companies offering roofing shingles on sale during the lean period. As their business drops they would like to keep their contractors busy, so they offer roof sales where they do the installation. Homeowners can purchase these roofs at a discounted price and the roofing company can keep its employees busy. Both the sides benefit with these kind of deals. The roofing company buys limited number of roofs types in bulk from the manufacturers and passes on the discounts to the home owners. The choice is limited but the prices offered are attractive.

Choice of Roofs Limited

If you plan to buy roofing shingles on sale then don’t expect much choice. You may have to compromise on a lot of factors like product color, product type, company, quality and so on. Whether you are buying it from the roofers or the from big super marts the businesses selling these products are either trying to clear out their old stocks or to drum up new business. In both cases you will have to settle for a limited array of choices. You will have to settle for unpopular colors, defective lots, styles that have gone out of fashion.

Installation Cost

Installation cost might turn out higher than you expected. One reason is that when you don’t buy the shingles from the roofing company then the company maybe reluctant to do your job. Some roofers might take it up but at higher costs then what they quote for regular customers. Also, even if you bought the shingles at a roofing company sale, they might be the high end contractors whose installation costs are generally higher than other contractors. You might be lucky and find a roofer who does a great job at the prices you estimated for.

New Roof Choices – GAF Roof Shingles

Roof Repair - May 23,2012 - No Comment

GAF Materials, creators of GAF roof shingles, was founded in 1886 and has grown to be North America’s largest commercial and residential roofing manufacturer after approaching $2 billion in sales. Among the many recognitions that GAF roof shingles have received include three straight years as being selected for Life Magazine’s “Dream House.” Among the recognitions given by Home Builders include #1 in shingle and ridge vent quality, #1 for innovation for shingles and ridge ventilation and #1 shingle brand used. There are many brands of GAF roof shingles to choose from.

Grand Timberline GAF Roof Shingles

Grand Timberline GAF roof shingles are offered at a fraction of the cost of regular wood shakes. They are 33% thicker and up to 50% larger, feature highly contrasted color blends, which results in a dimensional look. Their super heavyweight construction provides for ultimate durability while the custom specified, Micro Weave core provides excellent protection. These shingles feature a Class A fire and wind rating from Underwriters Laboratories. Algae protection combined with a lifetime limited transferable warranty round out the features of these shingles.

For more about GAF Roof Shingles, please read this free report.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Steven_Briesemeister

http://EzineArticles.com/?GAF-Roof-Shingles&id=206971

By Steven Briesemeister

Roof Shingles – Problems & Solutions

Roof Shingles - May 22,2012 - No Comment

Roof shingles are not entirely trouble-free. They need periodic maintenance and repairs in order to stretch out their lifetime. In case you ignore roof shingles problems, such as a leaky roof, then the water seeping through the cracks can damage the underlayment and require costly repairs later on.

Maintenance of roof shingles is an ongoing process. The commonest problems with roof shingles are damage, cracks and curling. All these conditions may require replacing a few shingles, or in extreme cases, the section of roofing completely. Depending upon how extensive the repair job will be, you may need help from a professional roofer.

Roof shingles repairs are costly and complex problems. The solution is to find trouble early and fix it promptly thereby avoiding the need for extensive repairs which can cost a pretty penny. Also, choosing good quality roofing materials will reduce the chance of damage and give your roof an extended lifetime. For more tips on how to maintain roof shingles see this report about roof shingles types and their maintenance – it’shere.

GAF Roof Shingles

Roof Shingles - May 07,2012 - No Comment

GAF Materials, creators of GAF roof shingles, was founded in 1886 and has grown to be North America’s largest commercial and residential roofing manufacturer after approaching $2 billion in sales. Among the many recognitions that GAF roof shingles have received include three straight years as being selected for Life Magazine’s “Dream House.” Among the recognitions given by Home Builders include #1 in shingle and ridge vent quality, #1 for innovation for shingles and ridge ventilation and #1 shingle brand used. There are many brands of GAF roof shingles to choose from.

Grand Timberline GAF Roof Shingles

Grand Timberline GAF roof shingles are offered at a fraction of the cost of regular wood shakes. They are 33% thicker and up to 50% larger, feature highly contrasted color blends, which results in a dimensional look. Their super heavyweight construction provides for ultimate durability while the custom specified, Micro Weave core provides excellent protection. These shingles feature a Class A fire and wind rating from Underwriters Laboratories. Algae protection combined with a lifetime limited transferable warranty round out the features of these shingles.

Camelot GAF Roof Shingles

These shingles are sold at a more affordable price than slate or wood shakes. They feature super heavyweight PLUS construction, which features up to a 60% increase in thickness compared with many other premium asphalt shingles. They also feature the Micro Weave core for added protection, Class A fire and wind ratings from Underwriters Laboratories and Algae protection. A special double row of Dura Grip adhesive secures each shingle and it warranted to withstand winds up to 110mph.

Sentinel GAF Roof Shingles

These are the basic GAF shingles, which currently protect over one million homes throughout the nation. They feature a strong Micro Weave core for durability and Dura Grip adhesive to secure each shingle. The Sentinel shingles offer a 20 year limited transferable warranty.

Royal Sovereign GAF Roof Shingles

These shingles are among the most preferred fiberglass strip shingle in their class. Features include an extra-strong Micro Weave core for durability and a 25 year limited transferable warranty. These shingles can be installed over an existing roof and they feature Dura Grip adhesive seals for each shingle.

Marquis WeatherMax GAF Roof Shingles

These popular 3-tab shingles provide all-weather performance. Their super heavyweight design and Micro Weave core assist the shingles to resist tearing while protecting against harsh winter weather temperatures. These shingles are said to withstand winds up to 80mph and feature a Class A fire and wind rating.

Jumbo Royal Sovereign GAF Roof Shingles

These shingles combine 3-tab design with an extra large design. A special row of Dura Grip adhesive seals will help the shingles to withstand winds up to a warranted 110 mph. They feature a Class A fire and wind rating and a 25 year limited transferable warranty.

Grand Slate GAF Roof Shingles

These shingles combine the authentic look of slate with a lifetime limited warranty. They feature extra thick tabs at a fraction of the cost of expensive slate. Their super heavyweight PLUS construction allows for ultimate durability while their high performance Micro Weave core provides protection. A Class A fire rating and algae protection are among the benefits of the GrandSlate shingles, which also feature a double row of Dura Grip adhesive seals and the ability to withstand warranted 110 mph winds.

Slateline GAF Roof Shingles

These extra large shingles feature a 110 mph limited wind warranty and have the appearance of slate. Their Class A fire and wind rating combined with their heavyweight design round out the specs on these affordable alternatives to authentic slate shingles. In addition, double rows of Dura Grip adhesive seals are present on each shingle, along with algae protection and a 40 year limited transferable warranty.

Timberline 30 GAF Roof Shingles

These fiberglass asphalt shingles feature a Shadow Accent effect with Dura Grip adhesive seals. A 30 year limited transferable warranty is also available.

Timberline Select 40 GAF Roof Shingles

The Timberline Select 40 shingles feature the Shadow Accent effect and a classic wood shake appearance. A heavyweight design with Micro Weave core and a Class A fire and wind rating round out the features.

Timberline Ultra GAF Roof Shingles

These are the premiere shingles in the Timberline Series. These are 25% thicker and heavier and feature a rich textured look. They have a Class A fire and wind rating with a super heavyweight design and Dura Grip adhesive seals, which help these shingles hold up against a warranted 110 mph wind.

Grand Sequoia GAF Roof Shingles

These patented, extra large shingles feature a Class A fire and wind rating with a super heavyweight design. A Micro Weave core and algae protection round out the features.

Country Mansion GAF Roof Shingles

A lifetime limited warranty combine with a distinctive appearance and versatile color palette in Country Mansion shingles. Their super heavyweight PLUS construction, Micro Weave core and Class A fire and wind rating are among the other benefits to this product. Algae protection and double row of Dura Grip on each shingle round out it’s features.

Grand Canyon GAF Roof Shingles

A subtle shadow effect compliment the sophisticated design of Grand Canyon shingles. The shingle tabs are 20% thicker and have a super heavyweight PLUS design, natural color palette and high performance. They have a Class A fire and wind rating, Dura Grip adhesive seals on each shingle and a lifetime limited warranty.

Country Estates GAF Roof Shingles

A lifetime limited warranty, strikingly bold design, subtle color palette and super heavyweight PLUS construction are just a few of the benefits to Country Estates shingles. Rounding out the features are a Micro Weave core, Class A fire and wind rating and algae protection with double rows of Dura Grip adhesive seals on each shingle.

As Long Island Roofing Contractors, Roofer911.com takes great pride in maintaining customer satisfaction for all types of new roof installation and roof repair work for residential and commercial roofing accounts.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Steven_Briesemeister

http://EzineArticles.com/?GAF-Roof-Shingles&id=206971

By Steven Briesemeister

Replacing Roof Shingles – When It’s Time To Go For A New Roof

Roof Repair - Apr 07,2012 - No Comment

Replacing roof shingles becomes a must if your roof is 20 years or older. 20 year shingles were the norm for a long time and most homes were installed with those shingles. Today you get longer lasting shingles and other roofing options like metal and slate which guarantee 50 years or more for their roof.

Today, the standard in asphalt roofing shingles is 30 years. Most homeowners have to deal with the problem of replacing roof shingles at some point in their lives. Unless you bought a home whose roof was recently replaced or it comes with metal or slate roofing which several decades, it becomes imperative at some point to go for roof replacement.

Sometimes, homeowners are faced with task of replacing roof shingles even though the roof was recently installed. Due to a variety of reasons the roof gets damaged and needs to be replaced. This is a very expensive and time-intensive effort which can’t be put off for long.

Let’s explore the causes for roof damage. In the northern parts of the country it is snowstorms and blizzards, strong icy winds, which rip the roofs away. In the south it’s ice storms and hail. The falling debris can damage the shingles, also this clogs the gutters and rips the shingles off their edges of the roofs. Gutters needs to be kept clean to prevent such problems. This can part of your yearly or half-yearly maintenance of your roof. Remove an soil, leaves, branches and other debris from the roof.

If you find any loose shingles, nail them back. Removed curled, damaged or broken shingles and replace them immediately. Loose vents and shingles act as the catalyst for bigger damage, because they provide sort of leverage for the wind to tug and remove other shingles in the line or surroundings. These leaves part of the roof exposed and letting water, snow or ice a free passage to the deck and the house beneath it. Such small problems need to be fixed immediately because the water damage can ruin your paint job, electrical work, cause the wood to rot and decay and lot more problems than you bargained for. Mold ad fungus can take root and find their way into the house. It is important to make proper inspection of the roofs after rainstorms and windy days. If you see any shingles or metal pieces from your roof on the ground then you know some damage has happened and needs to be looked into. Do this only after the water has completely dried up and there is no danger of you slipping and falling during the inspection.

Replacing roof shingles can be done in two ways. Either you can rip up the old shingles completely, dispose them off and replace with brand new shingles – either 30-year or 40-year shingles depending on your budget or go for second layer of shingles over the old layer. The first option is more expensive as the removal and disposal of old shingles cost money which your contractor will add to your roofing cost. In the second method the roof is prepared, old worn-out, warped, curled and misshapen shingles are removed and surface is made as even as possible. Only, then is the second layer of shingles is installed. This saves money as you don’t have to pay for removing and hauling away of the old debris.

The first methods gives better results and the second method is gaining popularity too. But, if the surface is not prepared according to the guidelines then there is the danger of the shingles failing before their promised life-span.

ELK Roofing Shingles – An Overview

Roof Shingles - Mar 29,2012 - No Comment

ELK roofing shingles from GAF is a product from a brand that is trusted and respected by home owners around the country, boasting of over 100 years of experience. Elk roofing shingles come with a customary 30 to 50 year warranty for the asphalt shingles and is one of the top selling shingles product all over the United States.

GAF holds patents governing the structure and designing of enhanced shadowing shingles which it sells under the brand ELK roofing shingles. The stunning visual sensation of depth and shadow rivals a similar impact created only at a huge multiple of the cost when you choose any other forms of roof shingles.

Timberline shingles which include ELK add curbside appeal which enhances the overall value of any building with Elk roofing shingles. These are certified by international authorities which means these shingles can be used in various countries. In New Zealand, the brand is appraised by BRANZ and commended for inspiring natural beauty while simultaneously meeting international standards for quality and durability.

GAF elk roofing shingles in the Timberline Prestique range have a complex structure to each shingle. The asphalt roofing shingle has a layer of diamond cut granules overlying a select asphalt base and a micro-weave core which is again sandwiched between asphalt. The same structure is repeated again, and layered over a dura grip adhesive that enhances the wind resistance of Elk roofing shingles.

The diamond cut granules are what reflects light and adds depth and dimension to your roof. The multifaceted design is complex, yet simple, and guards against UV radiation. This prolongs the lifespan of the Elk roofing shingles and maintains the shingle color for longer time. Dura grip has been reported to safely withstand even gale force winds.

The finest quality asphalt base goes into every Elk roofing shingle, and the microweave core is responsible for greater strength and flexibility. Weathering provided by this design keeps the building waterproof under harsh conditions. Fire hazard ratings are high for buildings with Elk roofing shingles also.

Elk roofing shingles come in the form of fiberglass asphalt shingles of heavyweight structure with 30 to 40 year warranty. Stain Guard is a proprietary technology that protects the shingles against losing their color and algae or fungal growth. Installation of Elk roofing shingles requires some special skills and roofing contractors trained in this will be able to do the best job.

A building roofed with Elk roofing shingles will be beautiful and have an eye catching appeal in addition to the security of quality, durability and effective protection against the elements. Dimensional shingles of various sizes, shapes and colors that complement every kind of architecture and color scheme are the proud boast of a company that prides itself on delighting home owners all across the country and even around the world.

Prestique GAF elk roofing shingles are available from most roofing material dealers and can be ordered online also from the GAF website.

Tag Archives: roof shingles