 There are many different types of materials that can be used for a roof covering for your home. Some of the choices include: slate, tile, metal, or terra cotta. However, one of the most popular choices among American homeowners is asphalt shingles. There are many benefits of using asphalt shingles for your roof. Continue reading below to learn about some of the highlighted benefits.
Abundance of Color Choices: A wide variety of color choices await you, as you decide which color will compliment the rest of your home’s structure, your home’s surroundings, and your own personal style. Asphalt shingles are well-known for their durability and long-life expectancy: When installed correctly, asphalt shingles should not curl up during extreme weather patterns, nor will they allow water to penetrate your home. They can provide years of service for your home — up to 30 years is not unusual. Budget-friendly material for roofing: Asphalt shingles are very reasonably priced, especially for the high performance that they provide. Compared to some other roofing materials, asphalt shingles are less expensive to manufacture, and also are usually less expensive to install. Very easy to care for: Asphalt shingles are easy to install and can be used on practically any shape of roof. They are also very easy to maintain. Repairs, when needed, are usually straightforward and simple to complete for a roofing contractor. Variety of installation designs: Asphalt shingles can be placed in a flat mode, an overlapping mode, or in a special pattern or design. Asphalt shingles also are available in a variety of textures. This versatility provides the homeowner great flexibility when creating a unique visual appeal for their home. Excellent Fire Rating: When used in conjunction with a fiberglass lining, asphalt shingles offer wonderful (Class A) fire protection for your home. This feature will help homeowners sleep soundly at night and have peace that they are living underneath good quality products. Sound protection: Asphalt shingles help with controlling noise levels from outside disturbances, such as weather-related sounds, traffic noises, or airplanes traveling above your home. Your home will be a calm, restful place to be as you relax and retreat from the outside world. In conclusion, when the time arrives for you to install or replace the roof of your home, consider the benefits of using asphalt shingles. People’s homes are often their largest investment, and your home deserves superior quality materials such as asphalt shingles. Not only will you be able to find a style that reflects your own personality, but you can live confidently knowing that you have given your home a sturdy covering where everyone that lives under it can thrive and prosper. Contact the experts at Bill White Roofing and Specialty to schedule a roof replacement today!
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 Your home is a big investment, both financially and personally, as it is the place where you retreat to when you are tired, refresh yourself as you prepare for another day, and celebrate life’s remarkable joys on a daily basis. The roof of your home is what protects all of the living space underneath it, so it is important to keep your roof in tip-top shape so it can provide a safe, comfortable environment for you and your family. Every now and then, your home’s roof needs a little attention, and may even need a repair or two. As a homeowner, it is up to you to ensure the stability and maintenance of the roof.
When you work with a roofing company in Birmingham that has knowledge, experience, and expertise about roofing issues, there are a few things they wish you already knew as the homeowner. Below is a list of some roofing ideas that are good for any homeowner to know.
We at Bill White Roofing and Specialty are rated A+ with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). We are also licensed with the Alabama State Licensing Board of General Contractors and the Alabama Home Builders Licensure Board. We are members of the Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders and the Subcontractors Association of Alabama. If you are looking for experience, expert knowledge, and an innovative roofing company, then give us a call at (205) 942-8374. We offer high-quality roofing products, as well as a wealth of knowledge about our field. We would love to hear from you!  The roof of your home is a very big investment, and it is one that you should put a lot of thought into when you need to replace it. Most homeowners do find themselves dealing with a roof replacement job at some point in their lives, so it is a good idea to learn as much as you can about the process. Between choosing a roofing contractor, deciding on a style and color for your shingles, and comparing roofing warranties, there is a lot to think about. In the following paragraphs, we will discuss typical roof-related warranties that you may run across as you delve into your roofing research.
Warranties that pertain to a roof can be very complicated to interpret. As a homeowner, you will want to find the best protection available. One of the most important things you can do is to find a roofing contractor that has a good reputation, a lot of history and knowledge, and someone that will stand by their work. There are typically two types of warranties associated with roofs: a manufacturer warranty, and a workmanship warranty. Manufacturer warranties are offered by the manufacturer of the roofing materials and covers those materials only. For example, a warranty for shingles usually has a lifespan of 20-50 years. Manufacturer warranties typically only cover actual defects in the shingles themselves. However, manufacturer warranties are rarely used, because they often require the homeowner to prove that they have provided proper maintenance of the materials on a regular basis. This can be a difficult thing to prove. Workmanship warranties are offered by the roofing contractor that completes the installation of the roof. This is the main reason why you, the homeowner, should find a reputable roofing company to work with when replacing your home’s roof. It is important to work with someone that is knowledgeable and stands behind their work, thoroughly. We, at Bill White Roofing and Specialty, welcome the opportunity to work with you on all of your roofing needs. We have been working on roofs throughout the Birmingham area since 1969, and we would love the chance to work on your roof, too. Contact us for a free estimate today!  The roof of your home is something that is often taken for granted, at least until a problem arises. Constantly being exposed to the natural elements of sun, wind, rain, ice, snow, or sleet can take a toll on your roof and you may find yourself in need of a roof repair. As a homeowner, it is wise to educate yourself about roofing terminology, so you will know what to look for when seeking roof repair help. One aspect of roof detail that is an important element is the flashing.
Flashing refers to a thin layer of material that is installed on the roof that acts as a weather resistant barrier and helps prevent leaks from the roof into your home. Flashing is especially important around protrusions, or joints, on the roof, such as: around a chimney, around attic fans, or around vent pipes. Water is directed away from joint areas, such as the above mentioned, due to properly installed flashing. Flashing can be made of a variety of materials, including metal or plastic. Metal options include stainless steel, copper, and aluminum. Thin sheets of metal can be pliable, yet very strong. Metal is the most durable flashing material. Plastic, such as a PVC-based material, can also be used for flashing, but may not withstand exposure to natural elements as well as metal flashing. Sometimes, a more flexible flashing material is needed for particular roofing situations. Some flexible flashing materials include butyl rubber or rubberized asphalt. Flashing can be installed so that it is visible to the naked eye, or it may be completely concealed by other roofing materials such as shingles. Proper installation is vital in order to achieve the optimum amount of protection from leakage, so it is important to work with a professional roofer if your roof requires repairs, or if you are replacing/adding a roof. Improper installation of flashing, or flashing that has been damaged, can be disastrous to your home. Flashing that isn’t functioning correctly can actually draw water into your home and can cause extensive water damage to your home’s roof, and everything beneath it. If you are seeking professional help for your roof, then Bill White Roofing and Specialty would love to hear from you. We have the knowledge and experience to help you with all of your roofing needs, not to mention our dedication to quality and customer satisfaction.  Proper insulation in the attic of your home can not only help regulate the temperature inside your house, but it can also save you a lot of money on your monthly utility bills. Insulation helps to keep your home warm in cool seasons, and cool in warm seasons. With rising prices of both electric power and natural gas, attic insulation is vital for helping with energy bills, as well as keeping you and your family comfortable all year long. According to the Department of Energy, proper installation of attic insulation can save homeowners approximately 10-50% on their energy bill. Proper attic insulation is basically a win-win for any home and homeowner.
There are two basic types of insulation: loose fill insulation and blanket insulation (also known as Batt insulation). Either type of insulation can be used in your home’s attic, but they each have their own nuances that you may wish to consider. Either one can be added to an empty, previously uninsulated attic, or they can be added to an attic that already has some insulation present. Loose fill insulation is packaged in large bags and consists of loose fibers that can be easily spread in the desired location. Loose insulation is great for attics that have a lot of obstructions that need to be maneuvered around, or for attics that have unusual joint areas. Loose insulation is also preferable if there are small air pockets or gaps that need to be filled in and covered. It is also desirable when working in attics that have a low-clearance, because the loose fibers can simply be blown around the attic, without having to crawl in to tight spaces. Blanket insulation is packaged in rolls, and can be cut to fit any desired length. It is offered in a variety of thicknesses, and has width options between 16-24 inches. Blanket insulation can also have a vapor barrier attached to it, usually made of a paper or foil material. This type of insulation is perfect for attics that have a lot of space to maneuver within, and in attics that have a standard layout with not too many obstructions. The main choices of material that comprise either type of insulation include fiberglass, cellulose, or mineral wool. If you would like assistance in deciding which insulation is best for your home, then please contact Bill White Roofing and Specialty. We would love the opportunity to help you with all of your attic insulation needs or questions.  Shingles protect more American homes than any other type of roofing material. Over 80% of homes coast to coast have asphalt shingle roofs. Even if you’ve always lived under a shingle roof, you might not know a whole lot about this material and what makes it so popular. When it comes time to replace your current roof, you’ll find these facts about asphalt shingles helpful:
1.Shingles are Cost-Effective Asphalt shingles are much more affordable than other roofing materials like slate, metal, and wood shakes. They are much easier to work with, making installation costs cheaper too. They come with manufacturers warranties against defects for anywhere from 15 to 30 years and some manufacturers offer an extended warranty on higher grade products if they’re installed by a roofing contractor who is factory certified. 2. Shingles are Long Lasting and Durable If installed correctly, asphalt shingles will last for at least 20 years, often longer. Their lifespan depends on their grade, the quality of installation, and their maintenance over the years. Keep in mind that certain weather events can damage shingles or pull them from the roof, but they are typically easy to replace with the help of a reliable roofing contractor. 3. Shingles are Recyclable Replacing your roof might raise some concern about adding a lot of waste to the landfills. Most asphalt shingles are fully recyclable, so you will be making an eco-friendly decision when choosing them. 4. Shingles Come in a Wide Variety of Colors There are so many different shingle options these days, it is almost overwhelming to make a decision. They are available in a wide range of both solid colors and blends. You can choose from the traditional neutrals like black or gray, warm earthy tones, and even contemporary greens, blues, and reds. You can choose color blends that will have the appearance of tile, wood shake, or slate textures. 5. Shingles Can Be Energy Efficient In the past, asphalt shingles were considered to be the least energy efficient roofing materials due to how much solar heat they absorbed. Today, however, there are many types of shingles manufactured that actually reflect the sun’s heat, which will help reduce your cooling costs. At Bill White Roofing and Specialty, we are experts when it comes to asphalt shingle roofing. We have been in the business since 1969 and work with the leading shingle manufacturers to provide top of the line products to our clients. Whether you need some roof repairs or are in the market for a roof replacement, you won’t be disappointed with the quality of work we provide. Give us a call today!  Do I cut costs by hiring a less experienced contractor? Can I buy my own materials to save money? Should I do my own repairs?
Your roof is a major investment, so it’s important to weigh your options before making any major decisions. Avoid these mistakes when making decisions about roof maintenance and preservation: 1.Start a major roofing project by yourself Unless you are an expert on roofing, it’s best to leave the work up to an experienced roofing professional. Just climbing up on the roof is dangerous and can cause serious damage if you don’t know what you’re doing. Tearing off a roof is even more dangerous. In our years in the roofing business, we’ve seen people start a project and quickly realize they were in over their heads. This mistake is often made when someone is trying to save some money, but it ends up costing more in the long run due to the damage caused by lack of knowledge. 2. Purchasing your own materials We all like to shop around for good deals, but when it comes to roofing materials, it is best to allow a qualified roofing contractor purchase the materials for you. Many roofing contractors have long-term relationships with suppliers and are able to get a more competitive price than you could. Not to mention they will know exactly what you need and how much. Having a new roof installed is typically a package deal, so a reputable roofer will be able to provide a manufacturer’s warranty as well as a warranty on the workmanship. 3. Installing products that can cause damage over time Just because a product sounds like it’s great doesn’t mean it’s always the best thing for your roof. For example, rain diverters sound like something every roof should have, but in actuality, they can cause more damage than good by forcing rain water up under the shingles. Another example is a flush mounted skylight. While they look great, they typically aren’t very sturdy and are unable to support large volumes of water. Be sure to consult with a professional roofer about which products will perform best with your roof structure. 4. Hiring the wrong contractor It is extremely important to do your homework before hiring someone to work on your roof. Price shouldn’t be the only factor you consider when it comes to the quality of work being done on your home. Talk to friends and family, and ask your neighbors and co-workers for names of roofing companies in the area with a good track record of quality work. Check online reviews, social media reviews, and the Better Business Bureau to get a better feel of what customers say about them. Your roof is one of the biggest investments you’ll make, so spend the extra time to find a company with integrity and a high quality finished product.  Purchasing a new roof is a large investment, so it is extremely important to hire the right roofing contractor for the job. Just because a company promises they will do the job quickly and cheaper than others does not mean that they are the best option. In order to find a reliable and knowledgeable roofer, you must ask some important questions and do some investigating to ensure they will do a good job on what we think is the most important aspect of your home or business. Here are some questions you should ask before you sign a contract and pull out your wallet:
At Bill White Roofing and Specialty we are committed to quality and complete customer satisfaction. We always say “Your roof is our roof” and our work reflects that. We know the importance of a strong and sturdy roof so we go the extra mile to ensure it is in the best shape possible. If you have any problems with your roof, have questions about your roof, or just want a roof inspection to give you peace of mind, give us a call. We would love to hear from you!  Your roof is a very valuable investment that will last for a very long time if taken care of properly. While there are numerous things that you should do to help maintain your roofing system, here is our list of things you should NOT do to your roof:
 The roof is your home or business' first line of defense against sun, rain, snow, or wind...but it is often forgotten about until there is a problem. As a homeowner, you will probably only purchase one roof in your lifetime. It is crucial that you make educated decisions on this protective barrier to avoid moisture problems and structural damage.
There is a lot of information out there about roofing, but not all of it is true. (You really can't believe everything you read on the internet????) Here are the most common myths about roofing and why they are just that, myths: Myth #1: All asphalt shingles are the same. All shingles are not the same. There are a wide variety of shingle types to choose from, and they all have their own advantages and disadvantages. They are rated by durability and wind resistance, and some shingles are created to protect against specific issues such as black mold and algae. An important point to remember is that the price of the shingles is not always an indicator of their quality. Some inexpensive shingles are very reliable while other expensive shingles are known to have problems. At Bill White Roofing and Specialty, we will be able to help you determine the best shingles for your particular roofing needs. Myth #2: You don't need to replace the flashing Flashing is the metal material put in place to divert water away from roof openings. Because it is made of metal, most people think that it is indestructable. As time progresses, however, it can become loose or knocked out of place, become rusted, crack, or break. If your flashing is compromised, you will have major roof problems. It is best to inspect it twice a year to catch any damage at an early stage. Myth #3: Pressure washing won't damage the roof materials While you may think pressure washing is a great way to clear your roof of dirt and grime, it can actually harm the roof and cause its lifespan to shorten. High pressure washing will force water underneath the shingles and behind the siding, resulting in mold and mildew. It will also damage the texture of the shingles, causing them to deteriorate pretty quickly. Myth #4: Insulation in the attic saves energy and aids in roof performance While insulation in the attic is exremely important, it must be executed properly. Adding more than the necessary insulation will block ventilation and possibly trap moisture, resulting in mold and mildew growth and damage to the roof decking. It is best to consult with a qualified roofing contractor to determine the appropriate levels of insulation necessary for your roofing system. Myth #5: Gutters are not part of the roofing system Gutters are actually a crucial piece of the puzzle when it comes to diverting water from your structure, which is what your roof is designed to do among other things. The gutter system prevents water from dripping down the exterior walls and onto the foundation of the building. If the gutters are damaged or full of debris, water will build up and cause serious problems such as leaks and rotting wood in the fascia boards, soffits, and decking. You should have your gutters cleaned out frequently and inspected for damage to avoid costly problems. We can't stress enough the importance of regular roof maintenance. Be sure to contact a reliable roofing company like Bill White Roofing and Specialty to help keep your roof in prime condition. It is one of, if not the, most important aspects of your building. |