Posts made in May 2023

Protect Your Home With Class 4 Asphalt Shingles and Save Money on Insurance

Protect Your Roof and Wallet: Install Class 4 Asphalt Shingles to Avoid Hail Damage and Lower Insurance Costs

As a homeowner, safeguarding your house against the destruction incurred due to natural catastrophes is more important than anything else. Hailstorms can significantly decline the condition of your rooftop, leading to pricey renovation works. Luckily there is one answer that not only prevents hail harm but also conserves money when it comes to your insurance policy. By incorporating Class 4 asphalt shingles, you can maintain your roof in fine form, and your pocketbook has some breathing room. In this blog entry, our concentration is on the advantages of Class 4 asphalt shingles and how implementation can be fruitful for securing you from hailstorms and safeguarding you against those hefty insurance fees.

Benefits of Class 4 Asphalt Shingles

Class 4 asphalt shingles are made to last and handle forceful hail impacts. Underwriters Laboratories (UL) performs rigorous tests and rating processes to confirm the robustness of these shingles in safeguarding one’s home from hail damage. For example, Class 4 shingles are certified to be resistant to two inches in diameter hailstones, the same size as a golf ball! Thus, by replacing your existing roofing with Class 4 shingles, you can experience complete repose, knowing it is adequately shielded from various hail disasters.

Saving Money on Your Insurance Policy

Homeowners who install Class 4 shingles may be eligible for a reduction on their insurance policy premiums as numerous insurance providers offer rebates on homeowner’s insurance policies. Such roofs are designed to survive hailstorms and are thus considered a lower risk to providers. Thus, you should contact your insurance company and check if they have such discounts.

Other Benefits of Class 4 Asphalt Shingles

Class 4 asphalt shingles provide more than just protection from hailstorm damage and a potential reduction in insurance premiums – they come with a range of extra advantages. Their lifespan is substantially extended compared to regular shingles, reducing the frequency at which you need to replace your roof. Moreover, they come in various shades and designs to match the look of your home. Furthermore, these asphalt shingles are created from environmentally friendly components, serving as a beneficial contribution to our planet.

Conclusion

A homeowner looking to ensure the safety of their estate from hailstorms and pay less on their insurance premium should consider investing in Class 4 asphalt shingles. In addition to providing remarkable protection, these shingles boast a longer life expectancy, a range of style options, and eco-friendliness. To uncover more information about fitting Class 4 shingles on your house’s roof, contact a reliable roofer in your location.

Why Hail Damage Is a Major Concern for Most Roofs and What to Do Next

As a homeowner, you’ve probably heard that hail can cause serious damage to your home. In fact, you’ve probably noticed signs of minor hail damage after a severe storm in your area. While some of this damage can be ignored, hail damage to your roof can be a serious problem and should never be overlooked. Even “minor” hail damage to your roof can lead to long-lasting problems that could cost you thousands of dollars in repairs, so here’s what you should do after your home has been hit by a bad hailstorm.

Why Hail Damage Is a Problem

The effects of hail damage depend on factors such as the size of the hailstones and the condition of your roof. Newer roofs and those that have been well-maintained usually hold up fairly well to hail and might only sustain cosmetic damage, while damage to an older roof can affect your entire home. That doesn’t mean minor hail damage to a newer roof can be ignored. Asphalt shingles that are hit by hailstones can lose granules, crack, or even fall off completely. This exposes your roof and your home to water damage, which can cost thousands of dollars to repair.

What to Do When Your Roof Is Damaged by Hail

The good news is that hail damage is relatively easy to spot and even repair if you catch it quickly enough. You do have to act quickly though. If you think your roof has been damaged by hail, the first thing to do is to look for signs of damage such as dark spots on your roof, missing granules in your shingles, and splits and tears in the shingles themselves. Obviously, the best way to spot these signs is to climb onto your roof yourself, but that is not recommended if you don’t have the proper equipment and training. Instead, look at your roof from the ground with a pair of binoculars to see if you can spot any signs of damage. In any case, you should contact a roofing contractor to take a closer inspection if there are clear signs of damage.

Contact Shelby Roofing & Exteriors Today

If you notice signs of hail damage after a severe storm, don’t wait to have it repaired. Contact Shelby Roofing & Exteriors as soon as possible. Shelby Roofing & Exteriors serves homeowners in the Southern Illinois and Missouri area, and they will gladly take a look at your roof after a hailstorm and make any repairs that are necessary.

Don’t Let Flat Roof Puddles Become a Major Headache: Tackle Standing Water Today!

Standing water on a roof is a common problem that occurs when water accumulates and does not drain properly. This can be caused by several factors, such as clogged gutters, poor slope or pitch, or damaged shingles. Standing water on a roof can cause serious damage to the roofing materials, leading to leaks, and can also provide a breeding ground for insects and mold. As such, it is important to address standing water promptly to prevent further damage to the roof and home. Here are several ways to deal with standing water on a flat roof.

1. A Waterproof Membrane

This is a layer of material applied to the surface of a flat roof to prevent water from penetrating the building. The membrane can be made from various materials, including rubber, PVC, or TPO. It is applied in a continuous sheet to cover the entire roof surface and should be installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure proper sealing. This method is very effective as it also provides a barrier to keep water from seeping into the underlying structure, whether it is a residential or commercial roof.

2. A Drain System

A drain system is a network of pipes, gutters, and downspouts that collect and channel rainwater away from a flat roof and into a designated area. The system should be installed with sufficient slope and capacity to handle the amount of water expected during heavy rain events. The installation should also include protection against clogging, such as screens or filters, to ensure that the water flows freely and does not build up on the roof.

3. A Slope

A slope, also known as a “crown” or “pitch,” is a slight incline built into a flat roof to promote the flow of water toward the edges and away from the center. The slope should be gentle enough to avoid standing water but significant enough to allow rainwater to drain effectively. This can be achieved by adding insulation or other materials to raise the level of the roof in the center.

Standing water on a flat roof can cause various problems. When not properly managed, it can seriously threaten the integrity and safety of the building. That’s why it’s essential to take steps to prevent standing water from accumulating on a flat roof. Hiring a roofing contractor with experience in flat roofing can assess the specific needs of your roof and recommend the best course of action. Furthermore, they can ensure that the installation is done correctly and meets local building codes and regulations of St. Louis.

Can You DIY Fix Your Roof? Reasons Why This Is Not a Good Idea for Homeowners

Can You DIY Fix Your Roof?

You can DIY fix your roof, but it’s not recommended because of the many hazards likely to occur in the process. Remember that roofing projects can be dangerous; hence, they require a professional with proper safety gear and techniques. If you have low confidence in your roofing ability, it’s best to contact a professional.

However, there are some reasons why you might prefer doing DIY roofing projects:

Money savings: DIY roofing is cost-effective because you save on labor expenses and only spend on materials and equipment. It’s mainly effective for minor roofing repairs.
Convenience: When doing DIY roofing projects, you work on your own terms, unlike hiring a professional. A professional will give you a set schedule and might delay your plans.
A sense of accomplishment: DIY roofing gives a satisfying feeling and a sense of pride after completing your roofing project.

Reasons Why This Is Not a Good Idea for Homeowners

DIY roofing is hazardous and might do more harm than benefit. Some of the reasons it’s not a good idea include the following:

Lack of experience: Watching DIY roofing videos online will not give you roofing skills. Roofing requires training and experience acquired on the job. Doing your own roofing with insufficient roofing knowledge can lead to great mistakes and serious consequences.
Safety risks: Roofing is dangerous for someone with little to no experience. You might fall while doing your DIY roofing projects. Falling from the roof can be deadly; therefore, hiring a professional prevents accidents since they have the right safety gear.
Time spent: DIY roofing projects take a long time because of lack of expertise. A professional roofing contractor will install or repair your roof within a short time.
No warranty: DIY roofing projects have no warranties; hence it’s important to hire reputable roofing contractors. They will bear the costs in case of damages or repairs during the warranty period. Some warranties even extend to 25 years. A roof warranty will give you peace of mind.
Lack of appropriate tools and materials: Due to lack of expertise, you might use inappropriate tools or roofing materials while doing your DIY roofing project. Roofing contractors work closely with manufacturers and know suitable roofing materials for your home that can withstand severe weather conditions in your area.

DIY roofing might be enticing when you think about the saved costs of hiring a professional. The truth is that DIY roofing projects have more risks than benefits. Hiring a professional roofing contractor gives you value for your money and gives you peace of mind while in your home.

What Is the Average Timeline for a Basic Roof Replacement?

When your home is ready for a roof replacement, it’s not a job that should be taken lightly. A new roof is not only a major investment, but it will also be an important part of your household for many years to come. When starting the process of having your roof replaced, you’ll probably have quite a few questions about the project and what to expect. While every roof replacement is different, each job typically sticks to a similar timeline. Here, we’ll look at how things normally go with a standard roof replacement.

Step 1: Get Estimates

Once you’ve determined that your home needs a new roof, the first step in the roof replacement process should be to get several estimates. Ideally, you should contact several roofing professionals in your area and schedule free upfront estimates for the project. That way, you can find the best price possible and find a company that you feel good about working with. The roofing contractors you contact will come out to your home, inspect your roof, and provide you with a thorough estimate. This estimate should include a comprehensive pricing breakdown as well as an estimated timeline for the job. After you’ve consulted with two or three reputable companies, you can select the professions that seem like the best fit.

Step 2: Schedule the Work

After you’ve chosen the roofing company that you want to work with, the next step will be scheduling the job. Depending on the time of year and the company’s schedule, you could have to wait anywhere from a few days to several weeks for the project to get started. If you feel that your roofing replacement is urgent, you can always discuss the wait time with different professionals during the estimate process.

Step 3: Roof Replacement

The final step in the roof replacement process is the actual work being done. In many cases, skilled roofing professionals will only require one day to finish your roof replacement. However, the timeline ultimately depends on several factors. Specifically, it will depend on the size of your home, the type of roofing material being used, and the weather. For example, if a storm rolls in while the contractors are working, they’ll probably need to delay the job. During the replacement, your hired experts will cover your siding, remove your old shingles, and make any needed repairs to the roof’s foundation. Then, they’ll prepare the roof for the installation, install the new roofing material, and finally, clean everything up. At that point, your brand-new roof will be good to go!

St. Louis Roofing Professionals

If your household has an old, deteriorating roof, you shouldn’t procrastinate replacing it for too long. As you can see, the process is relatively quick and simple, and if you’re proactive about it, you can potentially save yourself a lot of money and frustration. When you need any professional roofing services in the greater St. Louis area, you need not look any further than Shelby Roofing & Exteriors. Since 1983, our skilled roofers have been proudly serving residents of Missouri and Southern Illinois. To learn more or schedule your free roofing estimate, give Shelby Roofing & Exteriors a call today.

Latest Technologies in the Roofing Industry

Innovation is an essential aspect of the roofing industry. There is a tremendous amount of new and exciting products on the market. With all these exciting new technologies, it’s crucial that you understand what’s out there and then decide which product will best suit your home.

Roofing contractors must always keep up with trends and the latest products to ensure that their services are up to date. They must know all the new materials used in roofing and which ones are being replaced with other, more environmentally friendly and sustainable options. Here we will discuss some new technologies in the roofing industry and the benefits that come along with using them.

1. Drones

Drones allow roofing contractors to capture images of roofs from above. This provides a significantly different perspective than what’s available when surveying a roof from the ground level. These images help with numerous aspects of the job, such as measuring gaps between shingles, inspecting for damage and checking for leaks before any work is done. Drones will also help contractors with the quality of their work by checking for required details and finding areas that may require more attention.

2. Estimation Software

This software provides all the measurements needed for a job and averages costs from previous jobs. It can help get you in line with your budget. The information is presented in an easy-to-use format that allows quick referencing throughout the project. The software will also keep track of all necessary documents and planning details to make each job more organized and streamlined.

3. Solar Roofing

There are many benefits to installing solar tiles in your home. Not only will the tiles help you save money, but they will also help the environment. Solar shingles produce power during the day that can be used to power lights and electrical outlets inside your home. They can help reduce your monthly energy costs. They are also quieter than most solar panels. This is a huge advantage for homeowners who want their homes to be as energy efficient as possible without sacrificing aesthetic appeal.

4. Spray Foam Insulation

Spray foam insulation is a highly effective method of insulating your home. It’s more durable, fireproof and incredibly easy to install. Spray foam insulation fills in small gaps between walls and components of your home that get hot, cold or wet frequently to reduce energy consumption and increase comfort during winter. The contractor will use a spray gun to place the foam on the wall precisely. This creates a barrier preventing heat from escaping your home.

Roofing contractors must always be self-reliant and able to adapt to the needs of the industry. Shelby Roofing & Exteriors is a premier roofing contractor with over 30 years of experience. Our contractors improve their craft through their knowledge of the current trends and their skills in implementing these innovations. By ensuring that our contractors are well informed, we can better serve the clients who trust us with their homes.

What Are Ice Dams and Why Should a Homeowner Be Concerned If Ice Dams Develop?

Ice dams are a common issue in winter months. They form when the snow melts on the roof, runs down to the edge of the roof, then refreezes due to cold temperatures. As more snow melts and combines with this refrozen water at the edge, an ice dam can form.

What Are They?

An ice dam is a ridge of ice that forms at the edge of a roof as snow melts and then refreezes. Ice dams typically form in winter months when snow accumulates on sloped roofs, followed by higher temperatures, which cause the lower amounts of melted snow to run down the roof and freeze near the eaves.

Why Should a Homeowner Be Concerned If Ice Dams Develop?

1. Damage to Your Roof

As the ice dam grows, it can put pressure on your shingles and cause them to crack or break. Additionally, as the ice melts, the water can seep under your shingles and cause leaks in your roof.

2. Gutter Damage

The weight of the ice dam can cause your gutters to sag or even pull away from your home. Additionally, as the ice melts, the water can overflow from your gutters and cause damage to your foundation or landscaping.

3.Chimney Blockage

If an ice dam forms over your chimney, it can prevent smoke and fumes from escaping, which can be a fire hazard. Additionally, the ice can prevent you from using your fireplace altogether.

4. Power Outages

As the ice dam grows, it can fall and damage power lines that run to your home. This can cause a power outage that may last for several hours or even days.

5. Dangerous Removal

Attempting to remove an ice dam yourself can be dangerous as you could slip and fall off of your roof. Additionally, using a ladder to remove an ice dam is also risky as the ladder could slide out from under you. It is best to hire a professional to remove an ice dam for you.

6. Costly Repairs

Not only can ice dams damage your roof, gutters, chimney, and power lines, but they can also be costly to repair. It is best to take preventive measures to avoid ice dams at all.

Get in Touch!

If you are concerned about the potential for ice dams to damage your home, get in touch with us. We can help you determine the best way to prevent and address any potential issues with ice dams on your property.

Common Roofing Problems and How to Handle Them Right Away

The Most Frequent Roofing Issues and How to Fix Them

Since snow, storms, cold, and other elements may enter a residence, it is crucial to the structure’s overall function to have a quality roof. With routine upkeep by Shelby Roofing & Exteriors, a quality roofing system should withstand environmental extremes. The roof will eventually develop problems just like the rest of the home. Roofing issues you ignore will only worsen and become more expensive to solve in the long run. Common roof problems include leaks, poor installation, clogged gutters, improper vents, and overcrowding trees.

Leaks

Cracks or missing shingles are the most common causes of roof leaks. Usually, the roof starts leaking around the point where a chimney, vent, or dormer makes a hole. The professionals at Shelby Roofing & Exterior can locate the source of the leak and fix the damaged shingles for you. You can detect leaks by inspecting the ceiling for stains or mildew.

Poor Installation

Hiring experts to put up your roof is crucial. Shelby Roofing & Exteriors is home to a team of skilled, certified roofers committed to providing excellent customer service and quality roofing installations. Leaks, mold, and a shortened lifetime are just a few long-term consequences of sloppy roofing construction. You may avoid this issue by thoroughly researching the roofing contractor you want to hire.

Clogged Gutters

When gutters are clogged, most people don’t think about the consequences for the roof. When the rainwater cannot drain properly from the roof, it pools and might lead to problems with root growth. The leaks and mildew might occur if the water starts seeping in. Maintaining clean gutters via regular inspections is an easy way to avoid this issue. Cleaning up the debris during routine maintenance visits is another way a professional roofer may assist in stopping a problem from getting out of hand.

Inadequate Ventilation in the Roof

Most cases of roof failure result from improper roofing air circulation. Sheathing and shingles are damaged by excessive heat due to a lack of ventilation. Inadequate ventilation also promotes moisture buildup, which raises inside temperatures and causes the shingles to crack and blister. If you want to solve this problem and avoid damage, a roofing professional should inspect your vents.

Overcrowding Trees

Trees are great for nature, but not if they shorten the life of your roof. It is essential to keep your trees pruned so that their branches don’t rub against your roofing system and diminish its lifespan.

Conclusion

Roofing inspection and repair services are necessary when issues arise. At Shelby Roofing & Exteriors, we have a staff of roofing repair specialists that combine decades of expertise with the required skills to provide you with the best roof repair services.