Built-up roofs (BUR) are certainly investments. With their layers of asphalt, felt, and gravel, the materials add up and so does the cost. However, by practicing good BUR roofing maintenance habits, your roof should be in great shape for years to come. Learn how to protect your BUR roof and its sturdy layers from the elements, no matter what type of climate they must endure.
Rubber Roof Maintenance
What’s not to love about rubber roofs? They are affordable, long-lasting, energy efficient, and fire resistant. In addition, rubber roof maintenance and repair is fairly easy. For these reasons and more, rubber roofs are found on many flat commercial buildings. Familiarize yourself with how to keep your rubber roof in the best shape possible to protect your building from water damage. [Read more…]
Asphalt vs. Fiberglass Shingles
From three-tab asphalt shingles to flashy copper roofs, there are a staggering number of roofing materials available. Depending on your desired roof aesthetic, you can choose from dozens of colors, styles, and materials. If you’re a first-time homeowner, you’ll likely want to start with either asphalt or fiberglass shingles, which are two of the most common shingle types. Deciding between asphalt vs. fiberglass shingles requires weighing the pros and cons of each material, including durability, longevity, and affordability.
When to Replace Soffits and Fascias
Even if you rely on a contractor’s expertise to maintain your roof, it is important to be a responsible homeowner and keep an eye out for problems. After all, a lot can go wrong between yearly inspections. Two parts of the roof that often get overlooked are soffits and fascias. These architectural elements do much more than simply add a finished look to your home. Soffits and fascias are located on the part of the roof that protrudes away from the side of your home. The fascia is the lining on the bottom edge of the roof (typically what you attach gutters to), and the soffit is the flat section underneath your roof. Knowing when to replace soffits and fascias can protect your roof from other costly repairs. [Read more…]
TPO Roof Maintenance
Are you the proud owner of a building with TPO roofing? Thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) is an eco-friendly, synthetic material commonly used on commercial roofs. In fact, one of the most energy-efficient buildings in Canada, the Earth Rangers Centre in Woodbridge, Ontario, has a TPO roof. It uses 90 percent less energy than other buildings of its size, thanks to the reflective roof. TPO membranes also reflect UV radiation, so they help keep buildings cool during the hot summer months, saving you money on your cooling bill (source). Finally, TPO roofs are extremely durable and water-resistant, which are both huge pluses if you live in a region that experiences heavy rain or snowfall. To ensure that your roof can last for decades, it’s important that you stay on top of TPO roof maintenance.
How Composite Slate Shingles Compare to Slate
A slate roof is a hallmark of a historical house. Its gorgeous gray color and thick, rugged edges give even new houses a timeless European feel. But let’s not forget the major downside of slate roofs: They are pretty pricey. Luckily, you can get the same classic look of slate shingles for a fraction of the cost thanks to composite slate shingles. Let’s take a look at how composite slate shingles compare to slate. We’ll give you a hint: Composite shingles have the same great look and quality of slate, but they won’t destroy your renovation budget.
Advantages of Fiber Cement Siding
If your home needs to have its siding replaced or you’re ready for a new look altogether, you have a lot of options to choose from. Stone, stucco, engineered wood, brick, vinyl . . . the list goes on. One of the newer arrivals when it comes to siding is fiber cement, and there’s a reason This Old House is gushing over the advantages of fiber cement siding: “It masquerades as wood or masonry, wears like concrete, and survives even the harshest elements.” What’s not to love? Fireproof and able to repel termites and insects, this durable and adaptable siding is quickly growing in popularity, and it’s easy to see why. [Read more…]
Common Roofing Terminology
If you live in a house with a roof, you can benefit from learning common roofing terminology. After all, regardless of whether you rent or own your home, there is a good chance you’ll have to deal with a roof repair at some point in your life. Being able to communicate well with your roof repair company can save a lot of time and confusion when your roof requires an inspection, needs a cleaning, or begins to leak.
Types of Metal Roofs
Metal roofing is widely known as a durable, stylish, and low-maintenance roofing option, and the benefits of metal roofing make it a great choice for both residential and commercial roof designs. So if you haven’t explored metal roofing, we encourage you to check out the different types of metal roofs available. You can typically choose from copper, zinc, aluminum, and steel, which each have unique pros and cons.
When to Replace Siding
Your home’s siding isn’t just an aesthetic choice. It also serves as an important barrier, protecting your home’s structure from nuisances like insects, moisture, and foul weather. It’s important to keep your existing siding in good condition, but at some point you may need to replace it. After all, siding sees a lot of wear and tear. Wondering when to replace siding? Using a few telltale signs – higher energy bills, rot, moisture – you can decide when to make the investment.
