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John Jackson

Sep 28
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stone coated steel roofing

A Closer Look at Stone Coated Steel Roofs and the Affordable Cericade Alternative

By Resources

Stone-coated steel roofs are becoming more popular than ever. This innovative roofing solution has emerged as a favorite for homeowners who desire not just durability and strength, but also aesthetic charm. As they merge the beauty of traditional tiles with the unwavering strength of steel, they mark the epitome of both worlds. However, every rose has its thorn; while stone-coated steel roofs are a marvel, they come with a price tag that may be out of reach for some homeowners. Fortunately, there’s an alternative – Cericade Roofing, which, with its 35-year guarantee and cutting-edge technology, offers a worthy substitute without breaking the bank.

The Allure of Stone-Coated Steel Roofs

Stone-coated steel roofs are the epitome of structural integrity, longevity, and aesthetic appeal. Manufactured with a base of high-quality steel, they are designed to withstand severe weather conditions, including heavy rains, hailstorms, and high winds. The stone coating is not just a touch of aesthetic brilliance but also enhances the roof’s durability. It acts as an extra layer of protection, ensuring the steel beneath is unscathed by the elements.

The aesthetic flexibility of stone-coated steel roofs is another of their strong suits. They come in a diverse range of styles, colors, and textures, closely mimicking the charm of traditional clay, slate, or wooden shingles. Thus, homeowners are accorded the luxury of choice, an opportunity to select a roofing style that resonates with their architectural aspirations and aesthetic preferences.

The Cost of Stone-Coated Steel Roofs

However, quality and beauty come at a cost. Stone-coated steel roofs are an investment. While prices can vary significantly depending on the brand, quality, and installation costs, homeowners can expect to dig deep into their pockets. On average, the cost of materials and installation can range from $9 to $20 per square foot.

For a detailed comparative insight, for a 2,000-square-foot home, the total cost of a stone-coated steel roof would range from $18,000 to $40,000. In comparison, Cericade, priced similarly to traditional roofing options, would only cost between $6,000 to $10,000 for the same area. For a larger home of 4,000 square feet, stone-coated steel roofing would cost between $36,000 to $80,000, while Cericade would still be budget-friendly, ranging from $12,000 to $20,000.

Cost Overview:

  • Stone Coated Steel Roofs: $9-$20 sq ft
  • Cericade: $3-$5 sq ft

This cost, while justifiable by the quality and longevity of the roofing system, can be a significant hurdle for some homeowners. For those finding the investment steep, despair not – the roofing industry, innovative and diverse, offers Cericade as an alternative that doesn’t compromise on quality. Click here to get a free Cericade estimate.

Cericade Roofs: The Affordable Alternative

Enter Cericade, an innovative roofing solution for the cost-conscious homeowner. While stone-coated steel may be out of reach, Cericade steps in, not as a compromise, but as a worthy alternative, offering durability, aesthetic appeal, and cost-effectiveness.

One of the hallmarks of Cericade roofs is the 35-year guarantee. This isn’t just a testament to the quality of the materials but also the cutting-edge technology employed in its manufacturing. Every Cericade roof is a product of meticulous engineering, designed to withstand the tests of time and the elements. Homeowners can rest easy knowing that their investment is secure for over three decades.

Technology and Innovation

Cericade roofing technology is grounded in innovation. The materials used are not just durable but also environmentally friendly, reflecting the brand’s commitment to sustainable building practices. Furthermore, the roofs are energy efficient, ensuring homeowners enjoy a cooler indoor environment during hot seasons and warmth during the cold months. Moreover, like stone-coated steel roofs, Cericade hasn’t compromised on aesthetic appeal. Available in a variety of styles and colors, homeowners are spoilt for choice. Every preference and every architectural design can find its match in the diverse range of Cericade roofing options.

What Should I Choose?

While the allure of stone-coated steel roofs is undeniable, their cost can be a limiting factor for some homeowners. However, the existence of alternatives like Cericade ensures that quality, durability, and aesthetic appeal remain accessible. With a 35-year guarantee and a stamp of quality grounded in cutting-edge technology, Cericade roofs are not just an alternative but a statement of quality, affordability, and aesthetic splendor. Every homeowner, regardless of their budget, deserves a roof that stands as a bastion of safety, a symbol of beauty, and an emblem of quality. Contact us today to get a free Cericade estimate.

Sep 21
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5 tips for roof repair.jpg

5 Keys to Roof Repair: Ensuring the Longevity and Safety of Your Home

By Resources

The safety and integrity of a home are greatly influenced by the condition of its roof. While a well-maintained roof can withstand the test of time, external factors and wear will inevitably demand attention and repair. As a leading roof repair service company, we’re here to shed light on the five essential keys to effective roof repair, ensuring your home remains protected for years to come.

1. Routine Inspection:

  • Importance: Timely detection of issues is the cornerstone of effective roof maintenance. Regular roof inspections help homeowners identify minor problems before they escalate, leading to faster solutions and potentially significant savings.
  • How-to: We recommend conducting thorough roof inspections twice annually, especially after extreme weather events. Key indicators of potential damage include missing or damaged shingles, compromised flashing, or any signs of water infiltration. Additionally, ensure your gutters, downspouts, and attic spaces are in good condition.

2. Quality Materials:

  • Importance: The longevity and resilience of your roof are profoundly influenced by the caliber of materials used in its construction and repair. High-quality materials enhance the roof’s durability, ensuring it stands tall against diverse conditions.
  • How-to: When considering materials, it’s crucial to select those suited to your roof’s design and the local climate. For example, in areas prone to heavy snowfall, materials with excellent insulating properties are optimal.

The Reality of Asphalt Shingles

While asphalt shingles have been a popular roofing choice for many years due to their affordability and ease of installation, their longevity can be a point of concern for homeowners. Typically, even though they’re often marketed with warranties that suggest long life spans, the actual durability can fall short of expectations. Furthermore, the fine print on these warranties can be filled with exceptions and conditions, making it challenging for homeowners to claim any coverage. As a result, many find themselves facing unexpected expenses and premature roof replacements, making the initially attractive cost of asphalt shingles less economical in the long run.

3. Professional Expertise:

  • Importance: While DIY projects can be tempting, roof repairs are best left to professionals. Expertise not only ensures the job gets done right but also that it adheres to safety protocols.
  • How-to: Always engage a licensed and insured roofing contractor with positive reviews and a strong track record. Our team, for instance, combines years of experience with state-of-the-art equipment to deliver unparalleled service.

When seeking professional expertise for any project, especially roofing, it’s essential to delve deeper than surface-level claims. First, ensure the contractor possesses the necessary licenses and certifications that attest to their competency in the field. A solid track record, reflected in customer testimonials and case studies, can provide insights into their consistency and quality of work.

Additionally, look for professionals who prioritize ongoing training, ensuring they’re up-to-date with the latest techniques and materials. Communication skills, transparency in estimates and timelines, and adherence to safety standards are other pivotal aspects. By meticulously examining these keys, homeowners can ensure they’re entrusting their homes to genuinely skilled and reliable experts.

4. Proactive Maintenance:

  • Importance: A reactive approach to roof maintenance can be costly. Proactive maintenance involves addressing minor issues before they become major problems.
  • How-to: Apart from regular inspections, homeowners should clean their roofs, ensure proper attic ventilation, and trim overhanging tree branches. This not only prolongs the roof’s life but also helps in maintaining the home’s aesthetic appeal.

5. Understand Your Roof’s Lifecycle:

  • Importance: Every roof, regardless of its quality, has a lifecycle. Knowing when your roof is nearing its end can save you from costly repairs that might only serve as short-term solutions.
  • How-to: Familiarize yourself with the typical lifespan of your roofing material. For instance, asphalt shingles generally last 20-25 years. If your roof is approaching this age and you notice increasing issues, it might be more economical to consider a replacement.

The Cericade Advantage

Investing in the right roofing solution can be a game-changer for homeowners. Cericade, with its cutting-edge technology, stands out as an exemplary choice. Not only does it offer durability that can save homeowners thousands in potential repair and replacement costs, but its confidence in product quality is reflected in its unparalleled 35-year warranty. Choosing Cericade means opting for long-term peace of mind, ensuring your home remains protected against the elements for decades to come.

Click here for pricing

Sep 06
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How Do I Prepare My Roof for Solar Panels?

How Do I Prepare My Roof for Solar Panels?

By Resources

It’s hard to fathom how powerful the sun is. An hour’s worth of its energy is enough to supply the earth’s needs for a year. Imagine harnessing even a fraction of its power. We can, in a way, through solar panels. More homeowners are transitioning to solar energy for the various benefits it offers. It’s sustainable, requires minimal maintenance, and will save you big money in the long run.

But before you get too excited, you must first prepare your roof. You may not be aware of severe damages that could affect the installation and performance of your solar panels. The last thing you want is to install them only to remove them later. Save money, time, and effort by doing the necessary roof repairs. It’s best to have a professional on your side for this.

Here are some steps you can take to ensure your roof is ready:

Conduct a Roof Inspection

Homeowners must remember that once they have solar panels on their roofs, it will be harder to fix damages. Contractors usually have to remove the solar panels before they can do roof repairs. That’s why roof inspections are crucial before installation. It’s a chance to spot damages and address them immediately.

Roof inspections usually begin in the attic. Any roof issues will likely show up in your attic’s ceiling. It’s also helpful to look for other clues inside your home. Mold, mildew, and poor insulation and ventilation are all early signs of roofing issues. After the interior inspection, you can move to the outside. Look for signs of roof aging, loose shingles, damaged tiles, leaks, and gutter blockages. 

The goal is to gauge your roof’s health and take note of everything that needs repairing or replacing. Roof inspections can be dangerous, so it’s best to leave the process to a professional.

Perform the Necessary Repairs and Adjustments

Solar panels can last up to 25 years, so your roof should be able to last longer than that. Set it up for long-term success by doing all the necessary repairs before installing solar panels. You might have to replace rotted wood or secure loose shingles. 

You must also determine if your roof can handle the solar panel system’s size and weight. You might need to reinforce your roof to prevent it from sagging in the long run. Solar panels are relatively lightweight, but load issues can happen during the winter. Instead of scattering evenly, the snow will accumulate on the points where the panels attach to the roof. 

In addition, check your roof for satellites, antennas, air-conditioners, and other installations. You might have to reposition them if they get in the way of the solar panels. 

Improve the Insulation of Your Roof

Before committing to solar energy, consider improving your home’s energy efficiency first. By lowering your energy consumption, you can reduce the required size of the solar energy system and lessen your expenses. One option is to switch to energy-efficient LEDs. You can also consider upgrading your roof’s insulation.

Roof insulation helps keep your home cozy in the winter and cool in the summer. That means your AC units and heaters don’t have to work overtime, and you can save on utility bills. There are various types of roof insulation, each with pros and cons. Fiberglass batts, spray foam, and rigid foam boards are some examples you can consider. Do your research to learn more about which kind best suits your home and budget. 

Place a Rain Gutter System

If you want your roof fully prepared for solar panels, consider equipping it with a rain gutter system. It will direct rainwater away from your home and solar panels, helping prolong their life and maintain efficiency. In addition, it will preserve your roof and help it last as long as your solar panels. You won’t have to worry about water damage, flooding, or wood rot. 

For maximum protection, you can even install gutter guards. Twigs, leaves, and other debris can clog your gutter system and prevent it from doing its job. But gutter guards will keep foreign objects out, allowing water to flow and drain freely.  

Increase Sun Exposure

Solar panels will work in different weather conditions. However, you’ll get the most out of them if you live in a sunny state. For example, those in the southwest are the best candidates for solar energy because they get 300 days of sunshine yearly. 

If you live in a rainy area like Washington, you can still use solar panels, just as long as you maximize your roof’s exposure to the sun. If you have shady trees around your home, cut branches that may be blocking the sun’s rays. And if possible, install the solar panels on a south-facing roof. That will help them absorb more sunlight and generate more electricity. 

Get Professionals to Wash Your Roof

Solar panels are an expensive investment. Don’t let your money go to waste by installing them on a dirty roof. Doing so will hamper their efficiency and can even lead to system failure. The professional roof cleaners here at Blue Collar can restore your roof to its pristine condition and ensure it’s ready for your new solar panels. We’ll eliminate organic matter like algae, moss, and lichen that could be feasting on your roof. That way, it’s ready to last for many more years.

Additionally, we can rebuild and restore your damaged roof getting it ready for solar installation.

Sep 06
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why do roof inspections fail

Why Do Home Inspections Fail?

By Resources

Home inspections are nerve-wracking for everyone, whether you’re the buyer or seller. But they’re necessary because they provide crucial information about a home’s condition, exposing minor and major problems. 

Various factors can cause a home inspection to fail. Weakening foundations, pest infestations, electrical hazards, and poor drainage are some examples of issues that can lead to a negative grading. And no, the roof isn’t excused, either.

The roof is a crucial part of the home. It’s the homeowner’s first line of defense against the elements. The success of a home inspection depends heavily on the roof’s condition, which is why you should keep yours pristine. Here are some roofing issues to watch out for:

Roof Structural Issues

When home inspectors assess roofs, they look at structural integrity. They’ll be hunting for structural issues like sagging, which happens when the joists supporting the structure weaken. Spreading is another issue that concerns inspectors. It occurs when the roof’s weight is too much that it moves the entire formation out of its proper place. 

These issues usually take years to develop. The longer you ignore them, the more severe the damage. They worsen with exposure to excessive amounts of snow and rain, especially if the drainage system is inefficient. If you’re wondering how home inspectors spot sagging and spreading, they might walk on the roof to test its strength. They might also examine the roof’s structure through the attic. 

Poor Roof Insulation, Ventilation, and Waterproofing

If you think roof inspections concern only the exterior, think again. Your home inspector will also head to the attic and check the ceiling for proper insulation, ventilation, and waterproofing. 

They’ll see whether there’s unnecessary heat loss, which can cause damage to your roof and other parts of your home in the winter. They’ll also determine the ventilation level in the attic. Poor ventilation can cause mold build-up and excessive condensation, leading to premature roof deterioration.

Home inspectors are thorough and will also look for signs of leaking. That can include water stains, peeling or flaking wood, and musty odors. Water leaks are dangerous because they can cause significant damage to the roof. 

Unsuitable Roofing Materials

Home inspectors do more than just inspect the structural integrity of your roof. They’ll also check if the roofing materials suit the climate in your area. In addition, they’ll look for signs of wear expected in the chosen material.

Various roofing materials are available in the market, including wood, metal, concrete, and asphalt. When choosing, consider their pros and cons and how they’ll hold up against the weather in your location. Note that not all of them have the same structural strength. Some of them might even be fire hazards. For example, wood and asphalt offer significantly less protection against fires than metal and concrete.

Regardless of material, regular maintenance is essential to your roof’s longevity. Make it a habit to have a professional inspect and maintain your roof every few years. That will save you from having to replace your roof prematurely. 

Gutter and Downspout Issues

Home inspectors also have to check the gutters and downspouts. Downspouts are designed to direct water away from your home. The problem is most installers will place them directly on the foundation, leaving no room for clearance. Homeowners don’t know they must install pipe extensions to prevent water from cascading down their home’s exterior. Without this addition, you might experience localized flooding and foundation issues.

As for gutters, they’re prone to cracks, leaks, and rusting. But clogging is what home inspectors are most concerned about. It can cause rainwater to overflow. Or worse, it can force the water to travel back under the shingles, causing premature damage to the roofing materials. Leaves, dirt, and debris are the usual culprits behind a clogged gutter. You can avoid this through regular roof cleaning and maintenance. 

Low-Quality Installation

Your home inspector will be on the lookout for signs of poor craftsmanship. Some examples would be the incorrect placement of shingles and improper flashing installment. These mistakes can allow water to enter the home and cause extensive damage. Inconsistent nail patterns, incorrect overhang level, and wrong underlayment installation are other glaring errors that will catch their attention. 

Lack of Maintenance

Your home inspector will look for clues of poor roof maintenance, including dirty, clogged, or damaged gutters, mold or mildew build-up, ice dams, and rust. The roof may be hard to access, but that doesn’t mean homeowners should neglect it. It needs as much TLC as any other part of your home’s exterior. For the best results, leave the roof cleaning to a professional.

Here at Blue Collar, our professional roof cleaners are ready to make your roof immaculate again. We’ll eliminate organic matter like lichen, algae, and moss that may be eating away at it. That way, your roof can maintain its structural integrity and last many more years. While many factors can cause a home inspection to fail, your roof won’t be one of them.