Home Buyer’s Guide: What To Look For In A Roof

Home Buyer’s Guide: What To Look For In A Roof:             

No homeowner wants to buy a home only to discover they have unexpected projects to complete. You should be completely confident in the home you are buying. Here are a few things you should look for in a roof when you are buying a home.

A good place to start is to just generally observe the roof. Missing or broken shingles, bald shingles, and mold or moss growth are all signs you will need to, at the very least, make repairs to your roof. They can also be indicative of aging or severely damaged roofs, which means you will need to have a new roof installed once you buy the home.

If you notice a high level of moisture in the home, it could be a sign that the ventilation system needs some work. Moisture can also be a sign of leaks in your roof, so check the attic space for light shining through the roof, or water pouring through the roof if it is a rainy day.

Lastly, check to make sure the gutters are not broken or damaged.

Ultimately, if the roof is in poor shape, but you like the house, a roofing contractor will be able to work with you to install a new roof or repair the old one.

If you would like to schedule a roof inspection or a roof repair/installation, give us a call at (954) 534 4756 for EAST, (239) 351 6416 for NAPLES and (239) 351 0148 for FORT MYERS-TAMPA.

Allied Contractors Group Inc. is located in Florida

Choosing the Right Roof

Choosing the Right Roof                                      

Let’s face it, choosing the right roofing material for your home can be difficult. However, we’re here to help. Here are a few tips to help you pick out your next roofing material.

Asphalt shingles are very common for residential buildings, primarily because they are inexpensive, but have great durability and performance. However, some other roofing materials are more durable and have benefits that asphalt shingles do not.

Metal roofing can be made of several different metals, depending on what style, color, and performance you want. They reflect heat well (lowering energy costs), are lightweight, and have a long lifespan. However, metal roofs can be expensive, so they should only be chosen if they fit your budget.

Clay tile roofing is one of the oldest styles of roofing and has performed well for centuries. A homeowner can customize the shape and color of the clay tiles they wish to have installed. Additionally, they have a very long lifespan and are virtually fireproof. Unfortunately, clay tiles are extremely heavy and they come with a high price tag.

If you have more questions about these or other styles of roofing or would like to schedule a roof installation, contact our office at (954) 534 4756 for EAST, (239) 351 6416 for NAPLES and (239) 351 0148 for FORT MYERS-TAMPA.

Allied Contractors Group Inc. is located in Florida.

How Do Roof Leaks Form?

Nobody Enjoys Finding Leaks In Their Roof.                                 

 
Not only are leaks expensive to repair, but they can cost a lot of time as well and can keep businesses from operating. Being able to prepare for leaks and spot them early on can help lessen the anxiety next time you find a leak. So, then, how do roof leaks form?

Damaged shingles have a major impact on roof leaks. Shingles act as the first and toughest line of defense against rain and the elements. A cracked, damaged, or bald shingle is weakened and more prone to leaks. Spotting signs of damage early on will allow you to repair your shingles and stop leaks before they even begin.

Another cause of roof leaks is faulty skylight installation. If any bad materials were used or if the hole for the skylight was improperly measured, water can easily seep through your skylight and into your home.

Ice dams can cause leaks in the wintertime. Ice dams are caused by melting snow and/or ice on your roof that refreezes at the bottom of the roof, preventing proper drainage. The water gets backed up and can seep through your shingles and into your home. This water can also refreeze in cracks in your shingles and cause damage.

Being able to spot problems ahead of time will save you a lot of time and money down the road. Make sure to perform a roof inspection about twice a year to look for signs of damage.

If you would like to schedule a roof inspection or repair, contact our office at (954) 534 4756 for EAST, (239) 351 6416 for NAPLES and (239) 351 0148 for FORT MYERS-TAMPA.
 
Allied Contractors Group Inc. is located in Florida.

How Snow And Ice Impact Your Roof

How Snow And Ice Impact Your Roof:

 
During the winter months, cold weather and the storms that come with it are unavoidable. It can affect electrical power, road conditions, and visibility drastically. There are also many ways this weather can affect your roof.

Heavy snow can cause significant damage to your roof. As the snow piles up, so does the weight. This causes a lot of stress to your roof and over time will weaken it. Additionally, if the snow begins to melt and then refreezes and expands in your shingles, it will cause damage to the shingles and will wear out your roof much faster than time alone.

Another threat is ice dams forming at the edge of the roof. This happens when the snow or ice on the roof melts and refreezes before it can run off the roof. This cause a buildup of ice and retains water on the roof. The only place the water can drain then is into the shingles, under the shingles, or into the house itself.

Ice dams are tough to control and can be dangerous to remove on your own, so it is best to contact a professional. However, if there has been heavy snow and you notice a build-up on your roof, you can help prevent any damage. The best way to control damage from heavy snow is to invest in a roof rake. These are long poles with a “blade” attached to the end, and all you need to do is put them on the roof and pull them to remove snow buildup.

If you have any other questions regarding snow/ice removal or are concerned about roof damage cause by winter weather, please contact our office at (954) 534 4756 for EAST, (239) 351 6416 for NAPLES and (239) 351 0148 for FORT MYERS-TAMPA.

Allied Contractors Group Inc. is located in Florida.

How To De-Ice Your Roof

How To De-Ice Your Roof:                                                         

Have you had problems with snow or ice on your roof in the past? Here are some tips for you to take control and avoid those problems this winter.

You can purchase heat cables and have them installed on your roof or your gutters to help prevent ice dams. While they do a good job of preventing ice dams, they are not meant to get rid of them after they have formed.

A roof rake is always wise to have on hand in the wintertime. Large amounts of snow can cause significant damage to your roof. Using your roof rake, you can manually remove snow from your roof to lighten the load. It can also be used to remove small amounts of ice.

De-icing chemicals can work wonders for your roof as well. You can find these chemicals online, but be careful to research whether or not they can cause roof damage.

Keep an eye out this winter for heavy amounts of snow or ice. If you notice large accumulations of snow or ice, it is wise to contact a professional. Doing so can help save you the stress and thousands of dollars in damage repairs.

If you have further questions, feel free to call our office at (954) 534 4756 for EAST, (239) 351 6416 for NAPLES and (239) 351 0148 for FORT MYERS-TAMPA.

Allied Contractors Group Inc. is located in Florida.

How To Analyze Return On Investment On Roof Replacement

How To Analyze Return On Investment On Roof Replacement:

 
When preparing to sell your home, you may be thinking about whether or not to replace your roof. This especially is the case if your roof is old. Replacing your roof will certainly give your house more curb appeal, but will you get your money back when you go to sell your house? Here are a couple of things to think about to know what kind of return on investment you will get.

Replacing an old roof when you are selling can actually improve the structural integrity of the home. This is money you otherwise would have lost when a potential buyer had an inspection done.

If you have new insulation installed with a new roof, it will lower energy costs for you while you are still living in your home and for the prospective buyer. This could potentially be a selling point that could get you a little extra money.

The final thing that will affect the return on investment is the cost of the new roof. A new standard asphalt shingle roof will give you more curb appeal and will be more trustworthy for a buyer, which could be an incentive for them to pay more. However, too expensive a roofing system can have an adverse effect. A homeowner may not recoup the expense if they install, for example, a tile roof.

On average, a homeowner can expect to receive a 60% return on investment on a roof replacement. For a more precise number, contact a roofing professional to get an estimate.

If you have further questions, feel free to call our office at (954) 534 4756 for EAST, (239) 351 6416 for NAPLES and (239) 351 0148 for FORT MYERS-TAMPA.

Allied Contractors Group Inc. is located in Florida.

How Do I Tell How Many Layers Of Roofing Are On My House

How Do I Tell How Many Layers Of Roofing Are On My House?

When purchasing a home, you may only be checking the roof to see if it’s in good enough shape. Over time, you will probably want to learn more about your roof. When was it installed? What materials were used in its installation? How many layers were used? These are all very valid questions to ask, and the first two can be pretty easy to find out. The last one however, may seem like a challenge to find out, which I why we are here to help.

There are a couple of things to look for to find out how many layers of roofing are on your house. One way you can tell if a roof has multiple layers is by observing it from the ground. The roof may appear kind of lumpy, and even more so around vents, flues, and skylights.

Another thing to observe is the edge of your roof. You can climb a ladder and look at the very edge of your roof’s shingles. If you can see four layers of shingles, that is indicative that your roof was roofed over. This can shorten the life of the roof and weigh it down even though it is usually within the spectrum of what the codes will allow.

If you have further questions, feel free to call our office at (954) 534 4756 for EAST, (239) 351 6416 for NAPLES and (239) 351 0148 for FORT MYERS-TAMPA.

Allied Contractors Group Inc. is located in Florida.

How Many Layers of Roofing are Allowed on My Roof

How Many Layers of Roofing are Allowed on My Roof?

Sometimes homes may have multiple layers of roofing. This is a fairly common occurrence. Typically, re-roofing jobs are done to save money since there is an additional cost to tear off the old roof and completely replace it. At the same time, the home must stand up to inspection and to code. So how many layers are actually allowed on your roof, and if too many layers are present, will it hurt the resale value of your home?

The answer to the first question: Typically, the maximum number of layers allowed on a roof is two. However, this can vary depending on what was approved by the city. They will sometimes make exceptions in certain cases.

The answer to the second question is yes. A large reason it will hurt resale is that usually, the homeowner’s insurance carrier will only cover the top layer of shingles if the roof becomes damaged. If the damage penetrated underneath this layer, the homeowner will have to pay for that layer. Poor ventilation and more weight are also side effects of too many layers of roofing, which can lower the resale value of the home.

If you have any other questions about your roof or would like to have a new roof installed, contact our office at (954) 534 4756 for EAST, (239) 351 6416 for NAPLES and (239) 351 0148 for FORT MYERS-TAMPA.

Allied Contractors Group Inc. is located in Florida.

Establish A Roof Maintenance Plan Early

Establish A Roof Maintenance Plan Early:

Roof maintenance is an important part of having a healthy roof. Not only will regular roof maintenance lengthen the life of your roof, but it will also save you money in the short term since you will not have repairs as often. There should be a method to the madness, though, and you should not blindly perform roof maintenance. Here is a good plan to establish for roof maintenance in the future.

First, roof maintenance should be performed regularly – at least twice a year. A good time for these checks is once in the spring and once again in the fall. The spring check will cover all the bases following winter weather, and the fall check will allow you to see what spring storms and the hot summer sun did to your roof. It will also allow you to prepare for the winter.

When you perform your maintenance, get on your roof if you can. Walk around and look for things like hail damage, wind damage, missing granules, and missing shingles. It is also wise to clean your gutters, clear your roof of debris, and trim any overhanging tree limbs.

We also recommend that you schedule a professional roof inspection at least once a year to make sure you did not overlook anything during your maintenance. This could end up saving you thousands of dollars.

If you would like to schedule a roof inspection or if you have any other questions about roof maintenance, please feel free to contact our office at (954) 534 4756 for EAST, (239) 351 6416 for NAPLES and (239) 351 0148 for FORT MYERS-TAMPA.

Allied Contractors Group Inc. is located in Florida.

Finding Leaks In Your Roof – Tips

Finding Leaks In Your Roof – Tips                             

Roof leaks are a nightmare for any home or a business owner. Leaks cost money to repair and can be indicative of larger problems if left unattended. Early detection of leaks can help protect your home, but what are some ways to detect those leaks when they first start?

One fairly simple way to find leaks in your roof is to access your attic space. You can do this on a sunny or rainy day. Once you are in your attic space, look for areas where light or water is coming through your roof. If you spotlight peeking through your roof, you can be sure that water will also leak through those cracks.

To spot small leaks, you can shine a flashlight into your attic on a rainy day. Since water reflects light, this will help tremendously. Additionally, take a look at the roof on the outside of your house to spot any larger leaks. Sometimes debris or hail can cause serious damage to your roof, which will most often result in leaks. If this is the case, call a professional as soon as possible for a repair.

Finally, if you have a hunch that your roof is leaking and you are unable to spot the leak, take a garden hose up on your roof. Have a friend or family member stand in the attic while you spray water on your roof. They will be able to spot a leak should any water leak through.

If you need to schedule a roof repair or would like to schedule a roof inspection, contact our office at (954) 534 4756 for EAST, (239) 351 6416 for NAPLES and (239) 351 0148 for FORT MYERS-TAMPA.

Allied Contractors Group Inc. is located in Florida

How To Find A Contractor

How To Find A Contractor

 
If you are looking to have a roof repair or installation done but do not know where to start, you have come to the right place. If you have never started a roofing project, it can be hard to know which roofer you should choose. That is why we are here. Here are a few things to look for when you are looking for a roofing contractor.

Look up your local roofers and take note of the companies that pop up. Looking up these companies on the BBB website is extremely beneficial. First of all, you will be able to tell which roofers are well-established and licensed. Many roofing companies pop up after a storm to make extra money, but they are not in the full-time roofing business. You want someone with experience to work on your roof. Additionally, the BBB website will offer reviews on these companies so you can make an informed decision on who to proceed with.

After narrowing down your options, meet with them and discuss your needs. See how willing they are to work with you and ask them questions about previous projects, certification, and warranty options. Good roofing contractors will offer warranties on their roofs since they are confident in the work they do. Warranty options and GAF certification are two signs that you will be in good hands.

If you have any questions about Allied Contractors Group Inc. about GAF certification or our warranty options, or if you would like to schedule a roof repair or installation, give us a call at (954) 534 4756 for EAST, (239) 351 6416 for NAPLES and (239) 351 0148 for FORT MYERS-TAMPA.

Allied Contractors Group Inc. is located in Florida.

How Drones are Impacting the Roofing Industry Today

How Drones are Impacting the Roofing Industry Today:                        

The drone has rapidly grown in popularity. While they were initially designed as a piece of equipment for the military to use, they have become commercialized. They are a fun hobby and can also help capture aerial footage for movies, commercials, and at-home videos. In fact, they are even being utilized by the roofing industry.

Many times, portions of a roof can be incredibly high or even inaccessible. If the damage was done to a roof like this, it can be extremely dangerous or even impossible to inspect the damage. This presents a problem when trying to provide an estimate for a client. Drones, however, can fly up to these areas and record the damage with great clarity. This allows a roofer to give a more accurate estimate and keeps them safe in the process.

Keeping a roofer safe results in less liability. If a roofer was injured falling off a roof, it could lead to a lawsuit. Drones help protect the roofing company and also protect the roofer since they have no risk of injury.

Finally, drones drastically decrease time and costs. There is less money spent on labor since a drone can simply fly up to a roof, record the video, and be done. Since they are faster, they also help increase efficiency, and these cost savings most certainly will be passed on to the customer.

If you have any further questions about drone usage in the roofing industry or if you would like to get an estimate, give us a call at (954) 534 4756 for EAST, (239) 351 6416 for NAPLES and (239) 351 0148 for FORT MYERS-TAMPA.

How Often Should You Clean Your Gutters

How Often Should You Clean Your Gutters?

Gutter maintenance can oftentimes be overlooked when considering home maintenance. Roof repairs, insulation installments, sealing windows, and other home repairs typically take precedent. However, gutter maintenance is extremely important when considering home maintenance. Improper gutter maintenance can lead to a whole host of problems, including roof leaks and damaged windows and siding. Fortunately, cleaning them regularly can prevent these problems and save you money long term.

Clogged gutters can lead to many issues around your home. Gutters serve as a drainage system for your roof. When clogged, this drainage system does not operate efficiently and can cause damage. Water can build up in your gutters, which can then spill over onto your roof, giving the water more time to seep through any cracks that might be present. Additionally, this backup in the winter can create ice dams. When melting snow and ice cannot drain, it will refreeze on your roof, which exacerbates the problem. Furthermore, clogged gutters can get very heavy, causing them to break off and potentially damage siding and windows.

In order to prevent these issues, clean your gutters as regularly as possible. At the very least, clean your gutters out twice a year – once following the spring and once again at the end of fall, since items are most prone to accumulate in your gutters after these seasons.

If you would like assistance in cleaning your gutters or if you have any further questions, contact our office at (954) 534 4756 for EAST, (239) 351 6416 for NAPLES and (239) 351 0148 for FORT MYERS-TAMPA.

Allied Contractors Group Inc. is located in Florida.

How Long Will Your Roof Last

How Long Will Your Roof Last?                                         

Your roof is a long-term investment in your home. Different types of roofs are made of diverse materials, meaning they have various strengths and weaknesses. Asphalt shingle roofs, metal roofs, cedar shake roofs, and clay tile roofs all have different properties. So, this begs the question – how long will each of these roofs last?

Asphalt shingle roofs are the most common choice of roof for residential buildings. They are inexpensive, lightweight, and durable. So durable, in fact, that they will last for 20-30 years.

Metals roofs are more expensive than asphalt shingle roofs, but they are worth the money. They are almost maintenance-free and look great. These roofs will last nearly 50 years.

Cedar shake roofs have a rustic aesthetic unlike any other type of roof. This aesthetic comes with a cost, however, and these roofs require a lot of maintenance. The advantage is they will add value to a home and can last up to 30 years with proper maintenance.

Clay tile roofs can be thought of as the cream of the crop. They look great and are extremely durable, but they are the most expensive of the bunch. They also have the most longevity, maintaining the color well and lasting over 50 years.

If you are interested in any of these roofs and would like to have one installed, contact our office at (954) 534 4756 for EAST, (239) 351 6416 for NAPLES and (239) 351 0148 for FORT MYERS-TAMPA.

Home Buyer’s Guide: What To Look For In A Roof

Home Buyer’s Guide: What To Look For In A Roof:             

No homeowner wants to buy a home only to discover they have unexpected projects to complete. You should be completely confident in the home you are buying. Here are a few things you should look for in a roof when you are buying a home.

A good place to start is to just generally observe the roof. Missing or broken shingles, bald shingles, and mold or moss growth are all signs you will need to, at the very least, make repairs to your roof. They can also be indicative of aging or severely damaged roofs, which means you will need to have a new roof installed once you buy the home.

If you notice a high level of moisture in the home, it could be a sign that the ventilation system needs some work. Moisture can also be a sign of leaks in your roof, so check the attic space for light shining through the roof, or water pouring through the roof if it is a rainy day.

Lastly, check to make sure the gutters are not broken or damaged.

Ultimately, if the roof is in poor shape, but you like the house, a roofing contractor will be able to work with you to install a new roof or repair the old one.

If you would like to schedule a roof inspection or a roof repair/installation, give us a call at (954) 534 4756 for EAST, (239) 351 6416 for NAPLES and (239) 351 0148 for FORT MYERS-TAMPA.

Allied Contractors Group Inc. is located in Florida

Gutter Repair – When to Call a Pro

Gutter Repair – When to Call a Pro?          

It is well-established that your gutters are an extremely important part of your roofing system. When operating properly, they will drain water from your roof and direct it away from your home’s foundation. Sometimes, however, your gutters may need replacement, repairs, or maintenance. How can you decide between when you can finish the job on your own and when you need a professional to do the job?

One of the most common reasons maintenance is needed is clogged gutters. Leaves, dirt, and debris can clog up your gutters and cause them to overflow. Normally, this can be cleared by the homeowner. However, you should call a professional when there are clogs in your downspout that will not come out. Removing these clogs on your own could result in damage to the gutter system. Sometimes these clogs can even be caused by nesting animals, so it is a good bet to call a professional.

When making a large-scale repair or replacing your gutter system, always call a professional. These tasks can be dangerous, and they must be done correctly for water to drain properly. A professional will get the job done right and they have the experience needed to stay safe when making a repair or installation.

If you have any further questions for us, or if you would like to schedule a gutter repair or replacement, give us a call at (954) 534 4756 for EAST, (239) 351 6416 for NAPLES and (239) 351 0148 for FORT MYERS-TAMPA.

Allied Contractors Group Inc. is located in Florida.

How Replacing Gutters Improves Your Home’s Curb Appeal

How Replacing Gutters Improves Your Home’s Curb Appeal:

Your gutters are an underrated part of your home’s curb appeal. Not only do they keep your foundation from eroding, but they have the potential to look great. If you have standard vinyl or aluminum gutters, replacing them can spice up the look of your home. This may seem like a foreign thought at first glance, but here is why replacing your gutters improves your home’s curb appeal.

First of all, broken or damaged gutters can hurt curb appeal. Prospective buyers of your home may be wary of purchasing a home with visible defects, since it may indicate underlying problems. If your gutters are broken, simply replacing them with identical ones or repairing them will make a big difference.

A great way to add curb appeal without too much money spent or without too big of a project is by replacing your standard gutters with copper gutters, or aluminum gutters with a copper coating. These will help your home stand out by giving it a more natural, rustic look. You can also talk with a professional about what gutter shape would look best on your home.

If you would like to schedule a gutter repair or replacement, or if you have any questions about what gutter style is best for you, give us a call at (954) 534 4756 for EAST, (239) 351 6416 for NAPLES and (239) 351 0148 for FORT MYERS-TAMPA.

Save Energy By Adding Insulation To Your Attic

Save Energy By Adding Insulation To Your Attic:

Don’t wait any longer to insulate your attic! Adding insulation to your attic can save you on unnecessary energy expenses. Whether it is summer or winter, adding insulation to your attic will keep your home at a more constant temperature.

Insulation can be installed in a variety of ways. Just a few examples are: blown-in insulation, faced insulation, unfaced insulation, roll insulation, and foam insulation. Each of these varieties have different pros and cons, so talk to a professional about which insulation is right for your home.

As was previously mentioned, adding insulation to your attic can save you money. It is also beneficial for the environment. Taking energy-saving measures will reduce pollution because the power plants will not need to produce as much energy.

An under-insulated attic can also lead to moisture damage. With the less insulation, the heat in your attic can reach your roof during the wintertime. When snow falls on your roof, the heat will melt it and can cause ice dams, which ultimately can cause all sorts of moisture related damage to your roof and home.

Attic insulation is an easy step to take to protect the environment, your home, and your family. If you have any questions about your attic space or roof damage, call us at (954) 534 4756 for EAST, (239) 351 6416 for NAPLES and (239) 351 0148 for FORT MYERS-TAMPA.

Allied Contractors Group Inc. is located in Florida

Keep Your Roof Ventilated

Keep Your Roof Ventilated:                             

Ventilation is a critical function built into your roof. It serves to keep energy costs low, prevent ice dams, and help the environment overall. While it sometimes may be overlooked, roof ventilation should always be on your radar, and should be something you check first if you notice your energy bills skyrocketing.

Roof ventilation serves a massive purpose during the summer months. Hot air naturally wants to leak into your cooler attic space, which causes your air conditioning to work hard to keep the rest of the house cool. Ventilation naturally helps expel that hot air out of your attic to lessen the burden on your air cooling system, lowering your energy costs.

In the winter months, roof ventilation helps to cool the surface under your roof so snow and ice do not melt. If the snow and ice are allowed to melt, they can refreeze at the bottom of the roof. This will block your roof’s ability to drain and can lead to leaks.

This is why it is so critical to keep your ventilation system operating efficiently. Many times, dirt and debris can clog up your ventilation system. If you notice higher energy bills, take a look at your vents to make sure they are clear.

If you have any further questions or have noticed your roof ventilation system is not operating like it used to, give us a call at (954) 534 4756 for EAST, (239) 351 6416 for NAPLES and (239) 351 0148 for FORT MYERS-TAMPA.

Allied Contractors Group Inc. is located in Florida

Leaves Are An Enemy To Your Roof

Leaves Are An Enemy To Your Roof:           

As summer turns to autumn, fall leaves become pleasant to admire. They seem relatively harmless, but they are actually an enemy to your roof. They can lead to various types of damage, ranging from minor to severe.

Fall leaves collecting on your roof may, at the very least, be annoying. However, they can also cause major damage. Leaves, as they collect, create a moist atmosphere that blocks sunlight from drying out your roof. This creates a breeding ground for mold and moss growth. Both mold and moss can cause damage to your roof as they grow, and they can cause health problems inside your home as well. It is safest to simply clean the leaves off your roof if you notice a large buildup.

Leaves can also block the flow of water to your gutters or clog your gutters entirely. Water that is unable to drain from your roof will more easily seep through crevices in your roof and cause leaks. It can also flow over the sides of your gutters, which can eat at the foundation of your home and cause water damage to your walls.

If you are uncomfortable cleaning the leaves off your roof or out of your gutters, give us a call at (954) 534 4756 for EAST, (239) 351 6416 for NAPLES and (239) 351 0148 for FORT MYERS-TAMPA and we’ll do it for you!