Active Solar Heating

There are two basic types of active solar heating systems based on the type of fluid—either liquid or air—that is heated in the solar energy collectors. (The collector is the device in which a fluid is heated by the sun.) Liquid-based systems heat water or an antifreeze solution in a "hydronic" collector, whereas air-based systems heat air in an "air collector."

Both of these systems collect and absorb solar radiation, then transfer the solar heat directly to the interior space or to a storage system, from which the heat is distributed. If the system cannot provide adequate space heating, an auxiliary or back-up system provides the additional heat. Liquid systems are more often used when storage is included, and are well suited for radiant heating systems, boilers with hot water radiators, and even absorption heat pumps and coolers. Both air and liquid systems can supplement forced air systems.

Active solar heating systems are most cost-effective when they are used for most of the year, that is, in cold climates with good solar resources. They are most economical if they are displacing more expensive heating fuels, such as electricity, propane, and oil heat. Some states offer sales tax exemptions, income tax credits or deductions, and property tax exemptions or deductions for solar energy systems.

The cost of an active solar heating system will vary. Commercial systems range from $30 to $80 per square foot of collector area, installed. Usually, the larger the system, the less it costs per unit of collector area. Commercially available collectors come with warranties of 10 years or more, and should easily last decades longer. The economics of an active space heating system improve if it also heats domestic water, because an otherwise idle collector can heat water in the summer.

Heating your home with an active solar energy system can significantly reduce your fuel bills in the winter. A solar heating system will also reduce the amount of air pollution and greenhouse gases that result from your use of fossil fuels such as oil, propane, and natural gas for heating or that may be used to generate the electricity that you use.

Alberts Hails Grants for Brooklyn Schools, Ellis Tech

State Rep. Mike Alberts, R-50th, announced that Brooklyn Public Schools will receive $65,000 for technology improvements. At Ellis Technical High School in Danielson, $177,500 will go toward roof repair and replacement and $100,000 is for other improvements.

The grants are scheduled for final approval January 26 at the monthly state Bond Commission meeting, headed by Republican Gov. M. Jodi Rell.

Rep. Alberts thanked Gov. M. Jodi Rell for approving the grants which he had advocated at the recommendation of town and school leaders.

“We are extremely fortunate that the governor and her administration recognized the needs of northeastern Connecticut and approved our requests for this state assistance,” said Rep. Alberts. “I toured Ellis Technical High School last year at the invitation of concerned parents and saw first-hand the poor conditions that these funds will begin to address.”

To read more on the items scheduled for approval please visit www.housegop.ct.gov.

Alternative Solution For Asphalt Scrap

As landfill availability decreases and tipping fees increase, solid waste generators are becoming more interested in finding alternative ways of managing shingle waste. This site discusses the recycling of asphalt roofing shingles, or "composition shingles" including shingle quantities, composition, processing, products, and products made with recycled asphalt roofing shingles.

Approximately 11 million tons of waste asphalt roofing shingles are generated in the U.S. per year. Re-roofing jobs account for 10 million tons, with another 1 million from manufacturing scrap. California is estimated to generate 1.2 million tons per year, of which 1.1 million are tear-offs from re-roof jobs. These quantities may fluctuate with the construction industry, and with natural disasters such as floods and earthquakes.

Asphalt shingle scrap can be used in a variety of products, including:

• Asphalt pavement
• Aggregate base and subbase
• Cold patch for potholes, sidewalks, utility cuts, driveways, ramps, bridges, and parking lots
• Pothole patch
• Road and ground cover
• New roofing
• Fuel Oil

Broward County Roofs Before the Storm Checklist

Long-Range Preparations

Strong winds are often the most dangerous elements of a hurricane. Protecting the roof from high winds is essential to securing the integrity of your home during a storm.

Make sure that shingles, tiles or panels are fastened down tightly and replace any that are missing or loose. Rather than checking the roof yourself, which can be dangerous and cause damage to the roof, hire a licensed roofing professional. Standards For Storm-Proofing A Roof If you need to replace or make significant repairs to your roof, incorporate hurricane-proof measures to ensure that the roof is secure. Discuss these measures with your contractor so your roof is designed with high winds in mind. Contractors should use hot-dipped, galvanized nails instead of staples to attach asphalt shingles. Roof trusses should have braces to prevent a structural element from buckling or racking. Install hurricane straps, which are galvanized metal straps designed to hold the roof rafter to the top of the exterior wall. These clips or straps usually require professional installation, but can limit damage to your roof caused by high hurricane winds.

Short-Range Preparations

Remove turbines.
Trim nearby tree branches.

DURING THE STORM
 
If roof damage is observed during a storm, do not attempt repairs or damage control until after the storm has passed and the “all clear” has been given by Broward County Emergency Management. Never go outside during a storm.

AFTER THE STORM

Make temporary repairs to protect your home.
If your roof is damaged, use tarps secured with strips of wood and nails to cover it as soon as you can. Heavy rains usually occur after a hurricane as feeder bands pass through, and water can cause additional damage to the interior of your home. Any steps you can take to minimize water damage will help.
Repairing An Asphalt Roof Take pictures of your damaged roof for insurance purposes.
Remove loose debris on the roof that could be blown off in a subsequent storm. Because some roofs are in a hazardous condition after wind damage, debris removal should be performed by a licensed professional roofing contractor, if one is available within a reasonable time period. Major repairs should be completed by a licensed professional contractor.

CONTRACTOR TIPS

The demand for qualified contractors after a disaster usually exceeds the supply. Beware of home repair rip-off artists, who may overcharge, perform shoddy work or skip town without finishing your job. Because many legitimate licensed home repair companies can be booked solid for months, frustrated and anxious homeowners and landlords, eager to get their property back in shape, may neglect to take the usual precautions when hiring contractors.

Deal only with licensed and insured contractors. Verify the track record of any roofer, builder or contractor you are thinking of hiring. Ask for a list of recent customers and call them. Get recommendations from friends, relatives, neighbors, co-workers, insurance agents or claims adjusters. Check with the local consumer protection agency, building officials, and the Better Business Bureau to see if complaints have been lodged against any contractor you are considering.

Take your time about signing a contract. Get a written estimate that includes any oral promises the contractor made. Remember to ask if there's a charge for an estimate before allowing anyone into your home. Ask for explanations for price variations, and don't automatically choose the lowest bidder. Get a copy of the final, signed contract before the job begins.

Resist dealing with any contractor who asks you to pay for the entire job up-front. A deposit of one-third of the total price is standard procedure. Don't pay cash. Pay only by check or credit card, and pay the final amount only after the work is completed to your satisfaction. Be skeptical of contractors who encourage you to spend a lot of money on temporary repairs. Make sure there is enough money for permanent repairs.

Ask a knowledgeable friend, relative or attorney to review a home repair contract before you sign.
If you take out a loan to pay for the work, be cautious about using your home as security: If you don't repay the loan as agreed, you could lose your home. Consider asking an attorney to review the loan documents, as well.
If you suspect a repair rip-off, call the your local or state consumer agency and your building departments.

Construction And Building Inspectors

Construction and building inspectors analyze any number of building structures and construction projects.  The inspectors professional analysis is to determine that the condition, construction, alteration, or repairs of structures is in compliance with local and federal building ordinances and codes, professional contract details, and local zoning regulations. Building codes and standards are the primary means by which building construction is regulated in the United States for the health and safety of the general public. National model building codes are published by the International Code Council (ICC), although many localities have additional ordinances and codes that modify or add to the National model codes. To monitor compliance with regulations, inspectors make an initial inspection during the first phase of construction and follow up with further inspections throughout the construction project.

Contact your local builder about building codes, standards and inspections

However, no inspection is ever exactly the same. In areas where certain types of severe weather or natural disasters—such as earthquakes or hurricanes—are more common, inspectors monitor compliance with additional safety regulations designed to protect structures and occupants during those events.

There Are Many Types Of Inspectors:

• Building Inspectors
• Electrical Inspectors
• Elevator Inspectors
• Home Inspectors
• Mechanical Inspectors
• Plumbing Inspectors
• Public Works Inspectors

In order to ensure the quality, safety, and specifications being met at a site under construction, building owners will implement the services of a specifications inspectors to afford the future owners peace of mind in the sound building and maintenance of their structures. Financial organizations, insurance institutions, and municipal organizations will also want to utilize a specifications inspector to govern and direct the documenting of the detailed aspects of the projects, adhering to occupancy and building permits, and various other aspects of recording and ensuring all policy and specifications are properly and precisely followed..

For example, inspectors may use laptop computers to record their findings while inspecting a site. Most inspectors use computers to help them monitor the status of construction inspection activities and keep track of permits issued, and some can access all construction and building codes from their computers on the jobsite, decreasing the need for paper binders. However, many inspectors continue to use a paper checklist to detail their findings. As part of their work, specifications inspectors are required to log their work, acquire photographic records, and issue analysis reports.  Based on the outcome of the inspector’s findings, some action may be taken to rectify the situation at the direction of the specifications inspector. 

For example, government and construction inspectors notify the construction contractor, superintendent, or supervisor when they discover a violation of a code or ordinance or something that does not comply with the contract specifications or approved plans. If the problem is not corrected within a reasonable or otherwise specified period, government inspectors have authority to issue a “stop-work” order. Frequently, specifications inspectors see into construction or building renovations being undertaken without the proper official permits and documentation.  Municipal organizations often employ specification inspectors to enforce specific laws regarding design, building, and function of buildings.  In this arena of speciation inspection, violators of local ordinance and municipal law will directed to cease their operations until proper permits are acquired and rigid inspections are passed.

Contact your local builder about building codes, standards and inspections

Chimneys

It's more than just an entrance for Santa Clause - a chimney is an outlet for smoke. Chimneys allow smoke to escape from your home when a fire is lit inside of your fireplace. If you are considering a fireplace, you will need a chimney and an experienced roofer. If you already have a fireplace, there may be something wrong with your current chimney.

Do you need assistance regarding your Chimney? Contact a Roofer in your area today.

Some of the most common reasons you may need a roofer due to a chimney include the following:

• Maintenance
• Installation
• Leaks
• Replacement

Since Chimneys are located on one's roof, it is possible for problems that originate from your Chimney to affect your roof as well, which can then affect your home. Leaks, for example, can occur inside your home and can be coming from the area that your Chimney is located; this area is very prone to roof leaks. This happens when the chimney flashing - the watertight seal between the chimney and roof - is not so watertight anymore.

This has been known to occur especially with brick chimneys. Some people choose to just fill in the broken seal with something such as tar. While this may temporarily take care of the problem, it will not permanently fix it. It will just make the problem worse in the end - it is best to contact a Roofer as soon as possible, even before you suspect a problem so you can catch anything before it starts.

Do you need assistance regarding your Chimney? Contact a Roofer in your area today.

Commercial Roofing

Unfortunately, roof problems and necessary roof replacements don't just apply to residential homes. Commercial buildings as well as businesses have been known to have their fair share of problems as well. If your business has been encountering leaks or any other roof problems, roof repair or even roof replacement may be needed.

Do you need a Roofer for your commercial property? Contact a Roofer in your area today.

The most common reasons a roofer is needed for businesses and commercial buildings, include but are not limited to:

• Protective Roof Coatings
• Repairs
• Necessary Maintenance
• Roof Replacement

While you shouldn't attempt any roof work yourself no matter what, even for residential homes, this is especially true for a large building. While most untrained people wouldn't attempt to repair the roof of a commercial building, there are some that feel they can easily. This is very dangerous and could lead to serious injury, including death.

Commercial buildings and businesses usually contain valuable information and equipment that can't be compromised. Don't take the chance of serious problems occurring within your commercial property due to lack of proper roofing care. Contact a roofer in your area today.

Do you need a Roofer for your commercial property? Contact a Roofer in your area today.

Common Roof Problems

If you are having a brand new home built, you are obviously going to need a roofer in order to have a strong, properly designed roof. However, the home you are currently living in may have problems with the roof, and you might have leaks around your home. There are many different elements that can cause roof problems.

Are you having problems with your Roof? Don't hesitate any longer. Contact a Roofer today.

It is not just wind or other weather conditions that can cause problems with your roof. While this usually is the culprit, the following things can present you with roof related problems as well:

• Improper Roof Design
• Lack of Roof Maintenance
• Problems with Supports
• Flashing Failures
• Problems With Braces
  

It is always best to have a roofer fix a small problem before it gets much worse. While many roof problems can be fixed, unfortunately, some problems are beyond repair and you may need to contact a roofer in order to replace your existing roof entirely.

If you haven't contacted a roofer yet for that problem you are having with your roof because you are scared of the cost, there is something else to consider. A problematic roof will also result in higher electricity bills, due to the fact that you will need to run the air or heat even more, as it will take much longer to heat up or cool down your home. Stop procrastinating! Placing buckets around your home and pretending a problem doesn't exist will only cause you more problems in the end.

Are you having problems with your Roof? Don't hesitate any longer. Contact a Roofer today.

Contractors State License Board’s Enforcement Efforts to be Showcased on National Television

The California Contractors State License Board (CSLB) is considered to be one of the top regulatory agencies in the nation. Next week, the CSLB’s efforts to combat unlicensed activity will be highlighted in a one-hour documentary that will air on MSNBC Cable.

Over a three-month period earlier this year, NBC production crews went undercover with CSLB’s Statewide Investigative Fraud Team (SWIFT) to gain a “from-the-trenches” view of SWIFT’s efforts to battle unlicensed contractors. The show will also reveal the steps involved in conducting undercover sting operations, and how consumers don’t realize the risks they take when they hire an unlicensed contractor for home improvement work.

“We’re pleased that the exemplary work of our Enforcement Division will be seen by a national audience,” said CSLB Registrar Steve Sands. “We also hope that consumers around the country who see the show will learn to better protect themselves from becoming a victim.”

The show, titled “MSNBC Undercover: Home Wreckers,” will air on Wednesday, October 24, 2007, at 8 p.m., Pacific Daylight Time. The show will repeat at 11p.m.

An excerpt of the show will air on Wednesday morning on the “Today” show, beginning at 7a.m. on the NBC Television Network.

Cool Roofs and Emissivity

What is Emissivity?

The emittance of a material refers to its ability to release absorbed heat. Scientists use a number between 0 and 1, or 0% and 100%, to express emittance. With the exception of metals, most construction materials have emittance values above 0.85 (85%)¹. One example is a metal wrench left in the sun, which is hot to the touch because it has a low emissivity value.

Link Between Energy Savings and Emissivity

Solar reflectance is the most important characteristic of a roof product in terms of yielding the highest energy savings during warmer months. The higher the solar reflective value the more efficient the product is in reflecting sunlight and heat away from the building and reducing roof temperature. This is particularly important in areas of the U.S. where peak load is a concern.

Emissivity can also contribute to a cool roof. In warm and sunny climates highly emissive roof products can help reduce the cooling load on the building by releasing the remaining heat absorbed from the sun. However, there is also evidence that low emissivity may benefit those buildings located in colder climates by retaining heat and reducing the heating load. Research on the benefits of emissivity is ongoing. Discuss reflectance and emissivity with your roofing contractor to determine what characteristics matter most given your unique climate.

Crisco Announces $96,000 in Funding at School Readiness Projects

Senator Joseph Crisco (D-Woodbridge) has announced $96,834 in funding to for school readiness improvement projects in Ansonia and Derby. The State Bond Commission is expected to approve the funding during a meeting scheduled for Friday, January 26th, at the Legislative Office Building in Hartford.

This is part of a statewide effort to improve the quality of school readiness in Connecticut. The money will be used for minor capital improvements and wiring for technology.

The Ansonia and Derby School Readiness Program is slated to receive $72,134 for a number of improvements that will include roof replacement, fencing, security, and the heating and cooling system.

The Red Wing Pondhouse School, which is located at the Ansonia Nature and Recreation Center, will receive $24,700 for upgrades that will include wiring for technology, playground improvements and the installation of sidewalks. Senator Crisco has played a key role in this project, in fact the classroom at Red Wind Pondhouse is named, the Joe Crisco Learning Center.

"Improving early childhood education is a positive way to improve the quality of education for the children across Connecticut," said Senator Crisco. "The funding for these improvement projects at school readiness projects in Ansonia and Derby is a step in the right direction." Read more at senatedems.ct.gov

Contractors State License Board Announces Decisions and Penalties in Major Central Valley Roofing Felony Case

Dozens of homeowners and over $350,000 in mechanic's liens involved in Modesto Roofing

Sacramento – A Tracy man was ordered to pay restitution and go to jail for contracting with dozens of homeowners and not paying a supplier, which resulted in mechanic's liens on the consumer’s property. Tim Smith, Owner of Modesto Roofing (License #785746), pled guilty to misappropriation of construction funds, which is a felony. The Contractors State License Board (CSLB) and Modesto Police Department put in hundreds of hours of investigation time over the past four years on the case which at one point involved more than 100 consumers and creditors.

A mechanic's lien can be filed by any supplier or subcontractor involved in the work on a consumer's home. If the homeowner doesn't pay the liens, they could lose their property. ABC Roofing Supply Company filed liens (ranging from $1,300 to $7,900) against more than 100 homeowners, saying Modesto Roofing Company had not paid them for supplies.

Many of the 100 homeowners involved filed suits in Federal Civil Court against both Modesto Roofing and ABC Supply Company. (Modesto Roofing at one point owed in excess of $100,000 to Wisconsin-based ABC Supply, one of the largest roofing material suppliers in the country.) There was an out of court settlement in the amount of about $53,000 or .50 cents on the dollar.

Other recent rulings and court action resulted in the following for Tim Smith of Modesto Roofing:

• Sentenced March 20 to serve 180 days in jail starting May 21. (Court suspended 90 days of sentence)
• Three years of informal probation
• Ordered to pay restitution to seven of the victims who were not part of bankruptcy settlement
• Smith is searchable at any time of day or night for stolen property and fraudulent construction documents
• Ordered to pay a restitution fund fine of $100
• Contractor's license # 785746 has been revoked for a period of 5 years. (Smith can re-apply in 2011, only after showing that he complied with the terms of the criminal matter, payed the costs of investigation and enforcement, and provided proof of rehabilitation. Future licensing will also require a disciplinary bond for at least five years.

To find out more about this case, please visit www.cslb.ca.gov.

Elementary School Replaces Roof With Something More Energy-Efficient

Jefferson Houston Elementary School, built in 1970, is a single-story, 83,000 ft2 building in Alexandria, Virginia. Local temperatures often rise to a humid 100oF during the summer and drop to 10oF in the winter. Until 1994, these heating and cooling demands were managed by electric air-conditioning and electric-resistance heating systems. Larry Gilbertson, Director of Facilities, had analyzed the school’s historical energy expenses and determined that the school should have an overall energy efficiency upgrade as soon as it could be funded. By 1994, the existing EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) roof had reached the end of its useful life. Mr. Gilbertson knew that the roof needed to be replaced at a low first cost, but he also recognized the opportunity to lower the school's energy bills by specifying energy-efficient roofing materials. Working with Project Manager Mark Krause, Gilbertson compared several options—built-up, modified bitumen, EP (ethylene propylene), and metal—for replacing or repairing the roof, considering both first costs and annual maintenance costs.

Based on Krause's recommendation, Gilbertson specified a white, insulated, reflective, 60-mil EP roof manufactured by Stevens Roofing Systems. The reflectivity of the new roof, compared with the old roof, increased from less than 20 percent to 78 percent, and the insulation value increased from R-10 to R-20. Because the existing roof had significant water ponding, Gilbertson also elected to have roof drains installed. These drains not only prolong the life of the roof, but also help maintain its reflectivity by enabling dirt to be flushed from the roof when it rains. The cost of installing the EP material was no higher than the cost of the alternate materials considered. Furthermore, because the material is heat-welded, it could be applied without substantial odors-an important factor in protecting air quality in the classrooms. As a result of installing this energy-efficient, insulated roofing system, Jefferson Houston's energy costs fell to a post-upgrade average of $90,000 per year from a preupgrade average of $121,000—a reduction of $31,000 in annual energy costs.

These savings are due to both greatly reduced electric power demand and lower electric energy consumption. The school realized these savings despite a conversion of the interior courtyard space in 1994 into additional classrooms, which significantly increased the building's heating and cooling demands. The white EP membrane accounted for approximately 30 percent of the realized savings. Based on their energy-saving potential and ease of installation, white, reflective, single-ply membrane materials have become the roofing product of choice for Alexandria City Public Schools. Following the new roof's installation, Krause upgraded the lighting, replaced the air-conditioning and heating units, and installed an energy management system. The building's total energy bills decreased by 50 percent from $121,000 to $60,000 between 1994 and 1997, because of these comprehensive upgrades. On Alexandria City Public Schools’ partnership with ENERGY STAR Labeled Buildings SM, Gilbertson remarked: “I appreciate EPA’s efforts to continue providing unbiased technical information to us. We have a good source to go to for information not only about selecting roofing products, but also about financing projects, communicating our success to the community, and selecting other types of energy efficient building options.”

FCC Roof Replacement Phase 1 Rebid

Work of this Contract comprises general construction for replacement of designated roofing at the Fairbanks Correctional facility located at 1931 Egan Street for the Department of Corrections with the Department of Transportation and Public Facilities (DEPARTMENT) acting for the State of Alaska. Work includes roofing replacement, ACM abatement, stucco and painting, minor carpentry and mechanical.

The Engineer's Estimate is between $250,000 and $500,000. The Project shall be completed in 90 Calendar Days. The DBE goal for this project is 0.0%.

Bidding documents may be viewed at the DOT&PF offices in Anchorage, Fairbanks, and Juneau and purchased for $50.00 per set, payable to the State of Alaska, from the Central Region Plans Room, 4111 Aviation Avenue, Anchorage, Alaska before 4:30 p.m. (907) 269-0408. Additional information is available under “Procurement” on the DOT&PF web site at (www.dot.state.ak.us).

Individuals with disabilities, including the hearing impaired, who may need auxiliary aids, services, and/or special modifications to submit a bid/proposal should contact the TTD number: (907) 269-0473, no later than one week prior to the submittal date to make any necessary arrangements.

Fire Resistance 

If you are building, replacing, remodeling or repairing a roof, consider having a roof that is more fire resistant than traditional roofs. Certain materials can help to stop the spread of a fire; this can be beneficial to you as well as your neighbors.

Are you interested in a Fire Resistant Roof? Contact a Roofer in your area today.

If you live in an area where wildfires can occur, you need to protect yourself with a fire resistant roof. It has been proven that wildfires that have spread onto residential neighborhoods have resulted in burned down houses for those with flammable roofs, and houses that were saved due to fire resistant roofs. The following roofing materials are more fire resistant than other materials:

• Metal
• Slate
• Terra Cotta
• Tile

You can practice other safety precautions, such as keeping large trees from being too close to your roof, but you need a Fire Resistant roof as well. While it is true that fire resistant materials for your roof are generally more expensive than flammable roofing materials, it is a wise investment to make. After all, a fire resistant roof can save your home. An investment such as this is completely worth making.

Are you interested in a Fire Resistant Roof? Contact a Roofer in your area today.

Green Roofs Becoming a Great Choice for Areas With Hot Summers

Another alternative to traditional roofing materials is a rooftop garden, or "green roof." On hot summer days, the surface temperature of a vegetated rooftop can be cooler than the air temperature, whereas the surface of a traditional rooftop can be up to 90°F (50°C) warmer.  A green roof consists of vegetation and soil, or a growing medium, planted over a waterproofing membrane. Additional layers, such as a root barrier and drainage and irrigation systems may also be included.

Green roofs can be used in many applications, including industrial facilities, residences, offices, and other commercial property. In Europe, they are widely used for their stormwater management and energy savings potential, as well as their aesthetic benefits. Green roofs are an attractive roofing option that can reduce urban heat islands by providing shade and through evapotranspiration, the release of water from plants to the surrounding air. As impermeable surfaces like buildings and pavement replace open space and vegetation, green roofs can play an increasingly important role in storm water management.

During rainstorms, green roofs act as a sponge, absorbing much of the water that would otherwise run off. Researchers estimate that three to five inches of soil or growing medium absorbs 75% of rain events that are one-half inch or less. Green roofs also filter pollution from rainwater. This is achieved by the root systems' bacteria and fungi, which utilize the natural filtering processes of bioremediation and phytoremediation. As a result, the non-point source pollutants, nitrogen and phosphorus, are broken down and detoxified. This beneficial process increases over time as rooftop plants and root systems mature.

Gutters

Whether it's the installation of new gutters or the repair of an old one, a roofer is essential to ensure that a good job is done. Gutters are a roof necessity, and if you are currently without properly working gutters, what are you waiting for? Contact a Roofer for your gutter needs today.

Do you need assistance regarding Roof Gutters? Contact a Roofer in your area today.

Simply put, Gutters help to collect rain and snow that falls on your roof. Without Gutters, snow and/or rain would drip down areas of your home that it shouldn't, which could result in costly damage. It also helps prevent individuals outside of your home from getting hit directly in the face from rain or snow dripping off your roof. Reasons you may need to contact a Roofer regarding Gutters include the following:

• Installation
• Replacement
• Cleaning
• Unclogging
• Repairs

Without properly functioning gutters, the foundation of your home is compromised. This can result in many problems, from door problems to water leaks inside of your home. It is not worth the hassle and trouble. Simply having clean, professionally installed Gutters on your roof will help to prevent such problems from occurring. Attempting to perform any of these tasks yourself is dangerous and not worth the risk. Not only may the job be done incorrectly, but roof work puts you at risk for falls and injury. It is best to leave it to the professionals.

Do you need assistance regarding Roof Gutters? Contact a Roofer in your area today.

Home Improvement Program Works

The Texas Veterans Land Board (VLB) will lend eligible Texas veterans up to $25,000 for up to 20 years on a fixed-rate note to make substantial repairs to their existing primary residence. No down payment is required. For loans of less than $10,000, the maximum term of the loan will be 10 years. All loans are FHA-insured. The VLB must be in a first or second lien position. The veteran cannot advance any funds to the contractor or purchase materials prior to receipt of loan proceeds from the VLB. The VLB now offers a one-time closing with up-front funding (4 business days after closing) of the full amount of the loan. The VLB recommends that the veteran and the contractor enter into an agreement allowing the veteran to distribute funds from the loan as work progresses. The parties may draft their own agreement, including hiring an escrow agent. The agreement should provide for disbursals as the improvements are completed, including a final ten percent (10%) disbursal 31 days after completion. The ten percent (10%) retainage is to comply with statutory requirements to avoid liens by subcontractors.

All property improvements should be completed within six months from the date of disbursal of loan proceeds.

If the veteran is required to vacate the home while the improvements are being made, the veteran must re-occupy it within 60 days after completion of the construction.

Roofing Facts

A leaky roof can damage ceilings, walls, and furnishings. To protect buildings and their contents from water damage, roofers repair and install roofs made of tar or asphalt and gravel; rubber or thermoplastic; metal; or shingles made of asphalt, slate, fiberglass, wood, tile, or other material. Repair and reroofing—replacing old roofs on existing buildings—makes up the majority of work for these workers.

There are two types of roofs—low- and steep-sloped. Roofs considered low-slope rise 4 inches per horizontal foot or less and steep-slope roofs increase more than 4 inches per horizontal foot. Most commercial, industrial, and apartment buildings have low-sloping roofs. Most houses have steep-sloped roofs. Some roofers work on both types; others specialize.

Most low-slope roofs are covered with several layers of materials. Roofers first put a layer of insulation on the roof deck. Over the insulation, they then spread a coat of molten bitumen, a tarlike substance. Next, they install partially overlapping layers of roofing felt—a fabric saturated in bitumen—over the surface. Roofers use a mop to spread hot bitumen over the surface and under the next layer. This seals the seams and makes the surface watertight. Roofers repeat these steps to build up the desired number of layers, called “plies.” The top layer either is glazed to make a smooth finish or has gravel embedded in the hot bitumen to create a rough surface.

An increasing number of low-slope roofs are covered with a single-ply membrane of waterproof rubber or thermoplastic compounds. Roofers roll these sheets over the roof’s insulation and seal the seams. Adhesive, mechanical fasteners, or stone ballast hold the sheets in place. The building must be of sufficient strength to hold the ballast. A small, but growing number of flat-roofed buildings are now having “green” roofs installed. A “green” roof begins with a single or multi-ply waterproof system. After it is proven to be leak free, a root barrier is placed onto it, and then layers of soil, in which trees and grass are planted. Roofers are generally responsible for making sure the roof is watertight and can withstand the weight and water needs of the plantings.

Most residential steep-slope roofs are covered with shingles. To apply shingles, roofers first lay, cut, and tack 3-foot strips of roofing felt lengthwise over the entire roof. Then, starting from the bottom edge, they staple or nail overlapping rows of shingles to the roof. Workers measure and cut the felt and shingles to fit intersecting roof surfaces and to fit around vent pipes and chimneys. Wherever two roof surfaces intersect, or shingles reach a vent pipe or chimney, roofers cement or nail flashing-strips of metal or shingle over the joints to make them watertight. Finally, roofers cover exposed nailheads with roofing cement or caulking to prevent water leakage. Roofers who use tile, metal shingles, or shakes follow a similar process.

Because of their expertise in waterproofing roofs, some roofers also waterproof and dampproof masonry and concrete walls and floors, including foundations. To prepare surfaces for waterproofing, they hammer and chisel away rough spots, or remove them with a rubbing brick, before applying a coat of liquid waterproofing compound. They also may paint or spray surfaces with a waterproofing material, or attach waterproofing membrane to surfaces. When dampproofing, they usually spray a bitumen-based coating on interior or exterior surfaces. Roofers also install equipment that requires cutting through roofs, such as ventilation ducts and attic fans.

Library to Present New Name and New Look to Community

At 10:00 a.m. on Monday, December 3, Mayor Phil Hardberger and District 10 Council Representative John G. Clamp are scheduled to join officials from the Tobin Endowment, the San Antonio Public Library Board of Trustees and the San Antonio Public Library to rededicate the former Oakwell Branch Library located at 4134 Harry Wurzbach Road. The library will receive a new name, the Tobin Library at Oakwell, and more than $500,000 in improvements will be unveiled.

The Tobin Endowment donated more than $300,000 for improvements to the branch library, including new carpet, interior painting, new interior lighting, a new reference desk, reorganization of staff work areas, landscaping upgrades, new exterior book drops, an interior display and exterior signage memorializing Robert Lynn Batts Tobin, who donated the land where the library stands. In 2007 the San Antonio Public Library Board of Trustees voted to add the Tobin name to the library.

Work covered by the 2007 City bond included a new roof, resurfacing of the parking lot, new exterior lighting, and repairs and upgrades to sidewalks, a total investment of approximately $325,000.

Low-slope roofs gain popularity in some residential neighborhoods

As homeowners try to maximize the square footage of their homes and adhere to building regulations in their neighborhood, some architects and builders are recommending low-slope roof designs. But many communities are implementing guidelines that require a minimum slope on residential roofs. The desired result is homes designed to suit a neighborhood.

The Wall Street Journal recently reported realtors say homeowners are seeking low-slope roofs because they result higher ceilings inside and the possibility of roof top decks are appealing. But atypical low-slope roofed homes can be more difficult to sell as most homeowners do not want a house that does not fit into a neighborhood.

Although low-slope roofs are appropriate for some types of home styles, communities in which sloped roof homes are prevalent have started to pass new residential zoning restrictions. In fact, some communities that already have square footage and height restrictions are considering implementing a roof slope requirement.

MaineHousing Can Help Repair, Replace Homes Affected by Patriot’s Day Storm

Low-interest rate loans available

Maine offers low interest rate loans to help people whose homes were damaged or destroyed by the Patriot’s Day storm, MaineHousing Director Dale McCormick reminded Maine homeowners today.

“Homeowners who live in one of the counties declared federal disaster areas and whose homes need repair or replacement because of the storm’s damage should check with MaineHousing or one of our participating lenders to see if they qualify for one of our low-cost disaster relief loans,” McCormick said.

The federal government has declared the counties of Androscoggin, Cumberland, Franklin, Hancock, Kennebec, Knox, Lincoln, Oxford, Sagadahoc, Somerset, Waldo, Washington, and York as disaster areas.

McCormick noted that federal disaster assistance is approved only for publicly owned property in some of the counties that have been declared disaster areas, but MaineHousing loans are available through participating lenders for private home repair or replacement in all of them.

MaineHousing offers repair loans of up to $20,000 at a 3 percent interest rate. Homeowners have 16 years to repay, with no payments or interest due during the first year. Homeowners with incomes up to $78,000 are eligible. Eligible homes include single-family homes, condominiums, homes of four units or less if the owner lives in one of the units, and mobile homes.

For more information on this article please visit www.maine.gov.

Mayor Coleman Dedicates Green Roof At Macalester

Saint Paul Mayor Chris Coleman today joined students, faculty and project sponsors to dedicate the newly installed green roof at Macalester College. Funded by a grant from the Environmental Protection Agency, this is the second green roof installed at Macalester.

"This is a huge step forward for making Saint Paul a greener, more sustainable city," said Mayor Coleman. "The Macalester community has once again demonstrated their commitment to the residents of Saint Paul. I applaud the students and the administration for being a valuable partner as we work to make Saint Paul a national leader in environmental policy."

Green roofs are a strategy for promoting urban sustainability, increasing energy efficiency and fighting global warming; three goals of the on-campus Macalester Conservation and Renewable Energy Society (MacCARES). The project was funded primarily by U.S. EPA P3 National Student Design for Sustainability Competition Grant. Students and advisors completed the green roof installation in September and conducted research on its social (People), economic (Prosperity) and environmental (Planet) impacts around the community. The team recently presented their findings to a panel of EPA Scientists at the competition in Washington DC.

To read more please feel free to visit the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency at es.epa.gov.

Nesting Chimney Swifts

South Carolina residents who are hearing strange noises coming from their chimneys can be assured that the visitors are friendly and helpful chimney swifts, the only bird in North America which nests almost exclusively in chimneys.

Most homeowners were unaware that birds were nesting inside their chimneys until the young swifts started their loud food-begging calls at two weeks of age. It takes about 30 days after hatching for the young to leave the nest. Swifts are highly beneficial birds, do not spread vermin, and only use the chimney during the warm months when the fireplace is dormant. Like other birds protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1916, chimney swifts are protected from being pursued, captured or killed.

Chimney swift migration occurs in March and April as the birds move northward from wintering groundsChimney swift in Peru, according to Laurel Barnhill, wildlife biologist with the Wildlife Section of the S.C. Department of Natural Resources (DNR). The chimney swift is an aerial acrobat that resembles a small dark swallow (and sometimes is even mistaken for a bat) and spends most its day in flight feeding exclusively on flying insects, many times in groups. Later in the spring it will glue small twigs to the inside of a chimney with its saliva and lay four to five white eggs.

The chimney swift should be familiar to most homeowners because of it chimney-nesting habits, Barnhill said. Before the country was settled, swifts nested in large hollow trees, but as the country was developed, and large trees were cut down, swifts started nesting in chimneys. This adaptation has been so complete that swifts now rarely nest in hollow trees. However, with the increasing popularity of capped chimneys, swifts are finding many of their former chimney homes unavailable to them. This could be disastrous for the long-term population health of chimney swifts, as they will have no place to nest.

There is a distinct advantage to having a nest of swifts in the chimney, according to Barnhill. “Swifts eat annoying insect pests such as mosquitoes, flies, termites and ants, which equates to a third of their weight each day,” she explained. “The swift acts as a highly efficient natural pest-control agent which should be a welcome summer visitor to anyone’s home.” The small, fragile swift nests pose no chimney fire hazard, and the birds- nesting season does not conflict with winter chimney use.

New 2008 Construction Laws Provide Added Protection for Consumers

As the New Year rolls in, the Contractors State License Board (CSLB) reminds consumers that new laws will strengthen the legal protections that are available to them when they are involved in new construction or remodeling projects. This also means that contractors need to learn and heed the new and revised state laws that govern professions within the construction industry.

About two dozen changes to California construction law become effective January 1, 2008. Four of these laws will be important for consumers:

• An amended Business and Professions (B&P) Code that was enhanced by Assembly Bill 14 expands state anti–discrimination law in the Civil Rights Act of 2007. A licensed contractor who refuses services based upon a prospective client’s medical condition or sexual orientation can face disciplinary action. This is in addition to existing anti–discrimination law stating that construction–related services must not be denied based upon race, color, sex, religion, ancestry, disability, marital status, or national origin.
• Beginning January 1, 2008, general contractors and subcontractors working under residential construction contracts and amendments can be held liable for construction defects, injury or negligence, regardless of whether that language is included in a contract.
• The Registrar of Contractors soon will be authorized to order financial restitution for a consumer who becomes an “injured party” as the result of a licensed contractor aiding an unlicensed person, or who allows an unlicensed person to use his or her license. Licensed contractors who violate this law are already subject to civil monetary penalties and disciplinary action against their license.

Beginning in 2008, Landscape Contractors (C–27) licensed by the Contractors State License Board will be able to enter into prime contracts to construct and install outdoor cooking centers and fireplaces, as long as the projects are included in a residential landscape project, and the fireplace is not attached to the dwelling. Landscapers are currently authorized to be the prime contractor for pool, spa or hot tub projects that are included in a landscape project. However, other properly licensed specialty or general contractors are still required for tasks that are beyond the scope of the landscape contractor classification.

OCA Busts Home Repair Fraud Ring

Criminal investigators from the Governor’s Office of Consumer Affairs (OCA) arrested Marvin Dean Moore, Dusten Allen Moore, Edward Berger and Brent Roberts and charged them with racketeering for their alleged involvement in a home repair fraud scheme that conned elderly homeowners in Pickens, Cherokee, Cobb and Fulton counties out of over $480,000.

The OCA investigation, which began in November 2006, revealed that Marvin Dean Moore had scammed at least twelve Georgia victims, who ranged in age from 55 to 85 years old.  One of the suspects described how he and his associates would drive around neighborhoods looking for handicapped car tags, wheelchair ramps and other indicators that the homes belonged to seniors.  Marvin Dean Moore would then approach the subject with an offer to do some minor repair job, such as cleaning out the gutters or removing dead tree limbs.  He would sometimes allegedly present checks he’d received from the homeowner’s neighbors to establish himself as a credible, reliable worker.

After Moore completed the initial repair job he would “discover” additional problems with the house that needed immediate repair.  In the case of an 82-year old Roswell resident, what started as a $15.00 gutter cleaning job evolved into a total of $168,000.00 in payments to Mr.  Moore.

Not only would Moore overcharge for the repairs, but according to one of the suspects, Moore and his associates often fabricated or caused the alleged damages.  For example, Moore would carry around rotten wood and tell victims that the wood had come from their roofs, thus convincing them that their roof was in urgent need of replacement.  A suspect also alleged that Marvin Dean Moore had directed him and others to rip out roofing nails, pull off fascia board, and tear off shingles to create additional damage that the crew could then repair at exorbitant prices.  In the case of the Roswell homeowner, Moore allegedly gave one of his workers a $1,000 bonus to intentionally leave the tarp over the roof loose so that the impending rainstorm would cause additional damage to the home.

To view the rest of this article please visit consumer.georgia.gov.

OSHA Records Another Successful Enforcement Year in FY 2007

Washington -The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recently released its annual enforcement statistics, confirming that the agency's enforcement programs are producing positive results for the benefit of American workers.

In FY 2007, OSHA conducted 39,324 total inspections, a 4.3 percent increase over its stated goal of 37,700. Total violations of OSHA's standards and regulations were 88,846, a 6 percent increase from Fiscal Year (FY) 2006. The agency cited 67,176 serious violations, a 9 percent increase from the previous year and a more than 12 percent increase over the past four years. The number of cited repeat violations also rose from 2,551 in FY 2006 to 2,714 in FY 2007.

"The fact that OSHA surpassed its inspection goal for FY 2007 proves our enforcement commitment remains strong," said Assistant Secretary of Labor for OSHA Edwin G. Foulke, Jr. "The significant increase in citations for serious and repeat violations documents OSHA's focus on identifying and eliminating severe hazards in the workplace."

Fatality and injury and illness rates have continued to decline to record lows. The injury and illness incidence rate of 4.4 per 100 employees for calendar year (CY) 2006 was the lowest that the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) has ever recorded. Workplace fatality rates hit an all-time low in CY 2006 with 3.9 fatalities per 100,000 employees.

OSHA's results show that a strong, fair and effective enforcement program, along with outreach to employees and employers and partnerships and cooperative programs, add value to the workplace for both employers and employees by reducing injuries, illnesses and fatalities.

Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, employers are responsible for providing a safe and healthful workplace for their employees. OSHA's role is to help protect the safety and health of America's working men and women by setting and enforcing standards; providing training, outreach, and education; establishing partnerships; and encouraging continual process improvement in workplace safety and health.

OSHA settles Building and Construction Trades Department challenge to hexavalent chromium standard

WASHINGTON -- The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) signed an agreement April 6, 2007, with the Building Construction Trades Department (BCTD), AFL-CIO, Laborers' International Union of North America, and International Brotherhood of Teamsters, to settle their challenge to OSHA's hexavalent chromium standard (BCTD, et al., v. OSHA, Case No. 06-2433 (3d Cir.)).

As a result of the settlement, OSHA will issue a new document which provides specific enforcement procedures for compliance officers to follow at all construction sites where employees are working with portland cement. The document, Portland Cement Inspection Procedures, will explain how existing OSHA standards and requirements (air contaminants, personal protective equipment, sanitation, hazard communication and recordkeeping) apply to operations involving portland cement and collects all of the applicable provisions in a single inspection checklist.

Portland Cement Inspection Procedures will be also published as Appendix C-1 to the OSHA compliance directive on the Chromium (VI) standards ("Cr(VI) directive") to be issued to regional administrators later in 2007. While the Cr(VI) directive has not yet been finalized, OSHA is forwarding the Portland Cement Inspection Procedures to regional administrators and state designees in advance for immediate action. In a memo to regional administrators, OSHA is instructing compliance inspectors to review and implement the new Portland Cement Inspection Procedures.

Photovoltaic Test Facility Experiments With Different Roof Types and Weather Conditions

In order to accurately predict the annual energy production of photovoltaic systems for any given geographical location, building orientation, and photovoltaic cell technology, models are needed that can accurately predict the response of photovoltaic systems for a wide range of environmental conditions. The Building and Fire Research Laboratory (BFRL) recently commissioned a Roof Photovoltaic Test Facility to provide the data needed to develop, improve, and validate the needed simulation models.

The facility is configured to accommodate six residential (sloped roof) and three commercial (flat roof) photovoltaic roofing products. The majority of the currently installed products are referred to as building integrated photovoltaics, as they provide both protection against the elements and produce electrical power. The electrical output of each photovoltaic product is measured every 5 seconds, with average values for these quantities being saved at five minute intervals. The characteristic current versus voltage (IV) curve is periodically swept throughout the day for each test specimen. In addition to the electrical performance of the photovoltaic roofing samples, measurements are made of the coincident ambient temperature, wind speed, and solar radiation incident upon the samples. In addition measurements of diffuse and beam solar irradiance are made by an adjacent meteorological station.

The nine PV roofing products being monitored over the next 15 months fall within three general categories of photovoltaic cell technology – single crystalline, poly crystalline, and amorphous silicon – while embodying different manufacturing processes, materials, and design features. The combination of features makes each of the nine roofing products unique and well suited to capture the robustness of simulation models used to predict their electrical performance.

Repair or Replace Your Roof

Understanding potential weaknesses of roofing material also requires knowledge of repair difficulties. Individual slates can be replaced normally without major disruption to the rest of the roof, but replacing flashing on a slate roof can require substantial removal of surrounding slates. If it is the substrate or a support material that has deteriorated, many surface materials such as slate or tile can be reused if handled care fully during the repair. Such problems should be evaluated at the outset of any project to determine if the roof can be effectively patched, or if it should be completely replaced.

Will the repairs be effective? Maintenance costs tend to multiply once trouble starts. As the cost of labor escalates, repeated repairs could soon equal the cost of a new roof.

The more durable the surface is initially, the easier it will be to maintain. Some roofing materials such as slate are expensive to install, but if top quality slate and flashing are used, it will last 40-60 years with minimal maintenance. Although the installation cost of the roof will be high, low maintenance needs will make the lifetime cost of the roof less expensive.

Replace Roofing With Fire Resistant Materials

Some roofing materials, including asphalt shingles and especially wood shakes, are less resistant to fire than others. When wildfires and brush fires spread to houses, it is often because burning branches, leaves, and other debris buoyed by the heated air and carried by the wind fall on roofs. If the roof of your house is covered with wood or asphalt shingles, you should consider replacing them with fire-resistant materials.

You can replace your existing roofing materials with slate, terra cotta or other types of tile, or standing-seam metal roofing. Replacing roofing materials is difficult and dangerous work. Unless you are skilled in roofing and have all the necessary tools and equipment, you will want to hire a roofing contractor to do the work. Also a roofing contractor can advise you on the relative advantages and disadvantages of various fire-resistant roofing materials.

Tips

Keep these points in mind if you plan to have your existing roofing materials replaced:

• Tile, metal, and slate are more expensive roofing materials, but if you need to replace your roofing anyway, it may be worthwhile to pay a little more for the added protection these materials provide.
• Slate and tile can be much heavier than asphalt shingles or wood shingles. If you are considering switching to one of these heavier coverings, your roofing contractor should determine whether the framing of your roof is strong enough to support them.
• If you live in an area where snow loads are a problem, consider switching to a modern standing-seam metal roof, which will usually shed snow efficiently.
  

Roof Cleaning

When it comes to our home, one of the most important things to us is the appearance. Even if nothing is wrong with your roof, it may be in need of a cleaning. This is not something that a simple hosing off will take care of, either. You need a professional roofer to help restore your roof's appearance and have it looking better than ever.

Is your roof due for a cleaning? Contact a Roofer in your area today.

With their experience and proper tools and materials, roofers can produce a great job when it comes to the cleaning of your roof. When getting your roof cleaned, this includes gutters and downspouts as well. There is more to roof cleaning than you may think. Roof cleaning offers many benefits. Having your roof cleaned:

• Increases the value of your home
• Prolongs the life of your roof
• Provides Energy Efficiency
• Improves the appearance of your home

You may be asking yourself how not getting your roof cleaned on a regular basis can contribute to your roof having problems. By not getting your roof cleaned, your roof is at risk for algae growth. Algae can not only create ugly black stains on your roof, but it can destroy your roof as well.

Is your roof due for a cleaning? Contact a Roofer in your area today.

Roof Components and Parts

• Flashing
• Shingles and Tiles
• Trims
• Underlayments
• Dormers
• Eaves
• Gables
• Hips

Dormers are extensions of the house that stick though the roof.They are often used to create vertical windows on a slanted structure. Eaves are lips that hang over the exterior of the house and can be used to shelter porches and balconies. Gables are the angular portions of the roof that run from edge to the top. The hip is the seam where two sides connect.

Now that you know that basics, contact one of our professionals to do the hard work for you!

Roof Design

Your roof is more than a necessary component for your home, it also helps to put the look of your home together and add value as well. Don't just settle for the appearance of a roof you are unhappy with. It may be fine, but why not have an attractive looking roof that you are happy with and that suits your tastes and home?

Is there a roof design you have in mind? Contact a roofer in your area today.

Some different types of designs to choose from include the following:

• Cranked Roof
• Convex Roof
• Sandwich Roof
• Pitched Roof
• And more

The type of design you choose can be based on a number of factors, including the look and structure of your entire home as well as the material that is going to be used in the construction of your roof. Steel, for example, is very versatile and it can be used for a number of different roof designs.

If you have some designs in mind for your roof, a roofer can help you and work with you in determining which exact roof design would best suit your needs, taste and your own home. The roofer will then execute the plan and construct a roof that you will love. Contact a roofer today!

Is there a roof design you have in mind? Contact a roofer in your area today.

Roof Maintenance

A lot of the time, people tend not to do certain things unless a problem presents itself. For example, the importance of going to the doctor for check ups even though there are no apparent illnesses is not always practiced, and people tend to wait until they are feeling symptoms. This applies for roofs as well: the majority of people feel it is only necessary to contact a roofer if there is an obvious problem.

Would you like to have your roof looked at? Contact a Roofer in your area today.

The problem with thinking this way is the fact that some problems may be starting without it being noticeable yet. By the time the problem progresses to a state where you do notice and you finally do contact a roofer, it will probably cost you a lot more money than it would have if the roofer fixed the problem in the very beginning. Sometimes, a problem may be so severe you will need to get your entire roof replaced. Roofers will inspect the following:

• Shingles
• Sprayed Polyurethane Foam
• Wood Shakes
• Bitumen
• The overall roof's condition

Roofers can give both semi annual and annual inspections just to make sure everything is in proper working order. Our suggestion is to contact a roofer for a "check-up" and the roofer can determine from that point whether semi annual or annual inspections are recommended. Usually an older roof should get inspected more often than a more new roof, but this is to be expected.

Would you like to have your roof looked at? Contact a Roofer in your area today.

Roof Composition

To contact a roofer now, click here!

The most popular roofing of choice is shingles. There are two specific types of shingles; fiberglass and organic. Both offer color and texture thanks to the mineral granules that coat them. They are applied with a sticky adhesive and then nailed/tacked down. Current trends have produced shingles that successfully emulate wood and slate for a fraction of the price. Wood roofing choices are composed of shingles and shakes. The difference being that shingles are smooth and uniform while shakes are rough and highly irregular. Caution should be advised to anyone wishing to install this type of roof. Because it is wood, fire resistance can be a factor.

Roofs may be composed of a mixture of materials. The most popular of which are:

• Shingles
• Sheets
• Wood
• Metal
• Tile/Slate

Sheeting is another option for your roof. If you plan to work on your roof yourself, this is the choice for you. Sheeting is easily installed over existing roofing material and is available in a multitude of colors and shades. A recent trend to emerge is the popularity of steel metal roofs. Key West style housing with 'tin roofs' and balconies are spouting up along the eastern seaboard. Copper roofing is fashionable in the south in Mediterranean houses and western states have started producing south-western styles. While tile and slate roofing are attractive and extremely durable, they require added structural support because of their weight. Tile and slate are also more expensive to purchase and install.  Most people are advised to contact a professional roofer.

Ready to contact a professional now? Click here!

Roof Replacement

Sometimes, a roof can have so many severe problems that it is beyond repair. In certain situations, this may require the entire roof to be completely replaced. Also, your roof may not have any particular problems but it can be old and outdated, and it also may not be a good roof to handle certain climate situations that it may encounter. For example, many homes built between the 1950's and 1980's were built with materials that have now been proving to not be the best materials for roofs.

Possible Roof Replacement? Contact a Roofer in your area today.

Many people do not know when a roof is just in need of some repairs or if an entire roof replacement is necessary. There are some signs to look out for, which include the following:

• Missing Shakes
• Deterioration of the Shakes
• Shingle Cracks
• Leaks
  

If you have a Wood Shake Roof, you may want to consider replacing it even if no problems have started to occur. Don't stress if your roof may need replacement. It offers many other benefits as well; not only will a brand new roof increase your home value, it can also help prevent animals from running around up there if certain materials are used, such as metal.

Only a Roofer can make the final call when determining whether or not your roof needs to be completely replaced. If you know for sure that you'd like to replace your roof but you are unsure of what material to use, keep in mind that certain materials can't be used on roofs in certain areas depending on the building codes. It is best to check with a roofer to figure this out.

Possible Roof Replacement? Contact a Roofer in your area today.

Roof system means savings for homeowners

Homeowners could see their summer utility bills fall by 8 percent or more with a new roof and attic system being developed at the Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory.

From an energy efficiency perspective, roof technology has not progressed substantially in hundreds of years, but that is changing with the use of active thermal mass components, reflective pigments and coatings, subventing, radiant barriers and other novel techniques being tested by a team led by Bill Miller and Jan Kosny of ORNL's Building Envelopes group. Their prototype roof and attic system works by reducing attic temperatures by about 22 degrees Fahrenheit during a typical summer afternoon and decreasing the amount of heat that gets transferred through the attic floor to the living space.

At the heart of new roof system is a proprietary inorganic phase change material sandwiched between two reflective surfaces made of aluminum foil. This material is installed as a dynamic thermal barrier between the roof and attic area, creating separate air channels between roof rafters. The configuration is compatible with traditional wood and steel framing technologies. Moreover, the new phase change material overcomes problems that have plagued phase change materials for the past 40 years.

"In the 1970s and 1980s the housing industry made several moderately successful attempts to use phase change materials," Kosny said. "While these materials enhanced building energy performance, they were in many cases chemically unstable, were subject to corrosion or other durability problems and suffered from loss of phase change capability."

Another shortcoming of some previous phase change materials was their susceptibility to fire. Fire is not a problem with the ORNL material, according to Kosny, who noted that ORNL researchers are working with leading manufacturers of phase change material on the development of non-flammable organic material. Read more at ornl.gov

Roof Shapes

Homes come in all shapes and sizes, so it's no wonder there is such a variety of roofs. While there is such a plethora of shapes available, there are about a dozen basic roofing shapes. The best roof for you depends upon the layout of your site, the cultural preferences, and your own unique tastes. 

Need a new roof? Contact one of our roofing professionals for all your roofing needs!

The most popular type of roof design is the gable roof.  The gable is triangular and is designed to allow for easy run-off. It is typically used in Cape Cod and Colonial style housing. A cross-gable is simply a gable roof with intersecting parts. These roofs are often seen in Cape Cods and Tudors. Mansards are the French equivalents to the gable roof. Instead of coming to a point at the apex, these roofs are flat. Mansard roofs are fairly popular in French Chateau, French Colonial, Ranch, and Second Empire housing.

A roof is a protective covering that forms the top of a building. Types of roofs include:

• Gable
• Cross-Gable
• Mansard
• Hipped
• Cross-Hipped
• Pyramidal
• Flat
• Gambrel

Hipped roofs slant low and allow for terraces, lofts, attics, and balconies. Hipped roofs are great for bungalows. Cross-hipped roofs are just like regular hipped roofs, but with intersecting parts. Pyramidal roofs are hipped roofs that form a pyramid. The easiest to build are flat roofs - no explanation necessary. Gambrel roofs are like flattened gabled roofs. You see gambrel roofs on most farm houses and barns. Salt box roofs are unsymmetrical gable roofs. They are most common on the eastern seaboard. Like flat roofs, shed roofs are easily built and provide great run-off.  For more roof types and design you should contact a professional roofer.

For more roofing information, contact one of our professional roofers!

Roofing: Frequently Asked Questions

A: Yes.

Q: How long does it take to get a permit?

A: Permit issuance periods vary. Some projects can be fully permitted over-the-counter, meaning a return trip won’t be needed. Some projects, however, require that plans be left for additional review.

Q: How long is a permit good for?

A: A building permit is valid for 180 days after it is issued. In addition, a 180- day extension may be granted by the Building Official. In most cases, a permit will not be expired unless the applicant has failed to call for an inspection and show progress on the project for a 360 day period.

Q: What if I don’t get a permit?
 
A: If a permit, when needed, is not obtained before construction, you have violated city codes and regulations. You’ll be required to obtain permits for the work and expose all aspects of the work so that it can be inspected or you’ll have to return the structure or site to its original condition.

Q: How much do residential re-roofing permits cost?

A: This can depend on where you live, but generally around $35.00.

Roofing Glossary

Acoustical Tile: Special tile for walls and ceilings made of mineral, wood, vegetable fibers, cork, or metal. Its purpose is to control sound volume, while providing cover.

Bearing Wall: A wall that supports a floor or roof of a building.

Building Paper: Heavy paper used in walls or roofs to dampproof.
 
Built-Up Roof: A roofing material applied in sealed, waterproof layers, where there is only a slight slope to the roof.

Cornice: Horizontal projection at the top of a wall or under the overhanging part of the roof.

Hip Roof: A roof that slants upward on three or four sides.

Sheathing: The first covering of boards or material on the outside wall or roof prior to installing the finished siding or roof covering.

Shingles: Pieces of wood, asbestos or other material used as an overlapping outer covering on walls or roofs.

Valley: The depression at the meeting point of two roof slopes.

Verge: The edge of tiles, slates or shingles, projecting over the gable of a roof.

Roofing Program Completes Successful Year at Los Alamos

Complex-wide effort replaces nearly 150,000 square feet of roofing at Los Alamos in 2006

In 2003, the Department of Energy determined that millions of square feet of roofing was in dire need of replacement or repair, including some roofs at the Laboratory. So the Roof Asset Management Program was started to address the problem through a single management contract administered by the Kansas City Plant with oversight by Building Technology Associates, Inc.

This past year at the Laboratory the program resulted in contractors replacing 148,000 square feet of roofing and performing repairs on an additional 150 roof areas. The Roof Asset Management Program, and Building Technology Associates, Inc. did the work.

"The replacement of old roofing has obvious benefits to the Laboratory," said Jayson Blanchard, of Facility and Infrastructure Recapitalization Program planning. "But it's the repair work that really pays off in extending the life cycle of so many of our buildings - resulting in a significant long-term cost savings over replacement."

Actual repair and replacement work began in 2005 with the successful replacement of 66,000 square feet of roofing and repairs completed on more than 100 other buildings.

The program started at Los Alamos in 2004 with an initial survey of the Laboratory's roofing situation that evolved into a repair/replacement schedule. The survey looked at roof condition, age, material types and life cycle to determine what work needed to be done and when.

According to Blanchard, the Laboratory anticipates that this will be another good year in the roof replacement/repair arena. Working closely with the Los Alamos Site Office, DOE headquarters, the Kansas City Plant, and Building Technology Associates, Inc., infrastructure managers at the Laboratory hope to increase funding in the 2007 fiscal year, and complete additional roofing projects on buildings that are in dire need of repairs or replacement.

"We really appreciate all the support we've gotten over the years from Headquarters. The overall successes of this program is due to their efforts along with Jayson and the Los Alamos project team, Kansas City Plant management personnel, the Building Technology Associates Inc. management team, and the contractors hired to perform the work," said Larry Goen of Weapons Infrastructure.

"The benefits realized from the program are many. Getting new roofs on facilities that need them supports the Lab's overall mission by providing employees with better working conditions and improved safety," said Goen. "And there are real cost efficiencies that result from having access to large nationwide roofing contractors."

Roofs Play A Key Role In Protecting Building

Roofs play a key role in protecting building occupants and interiors from outside weather conditions, primarily moisture. The roof, insulation, and ventilation must all work together to keep the building free of moisture. Roofs also provide protection from the sun. In fact, if designed correctly, roof overhangs can protect the buildings exterior walls from moisture and sun.

Different roof designs and materials are used for residential and commercial buildings.Commercial buildings typically use low-slope or flat roofs, while home roofs are sloped. The concerns regarding moisture, standing water, durability and appearance are different, reflected in the choices of roofing materials.

Roof design can impact the building's thermal performance. For example, in a metal-framed building, the metal eaves can act as thermal fins, moving heat out of the building, which is not desirable in heating climates.

A number of roofing materials are available:

• Asphalt
• Metal
• Wood
• Concrete and Tile
• Single-Ply
• Solar Shingles
• Recycled Content
• Coatings

Shingles

Roof shingles are simply protection for your roof which consists of many rectangular shapes that overlap and cover the entire roof. They are an essential component in ensuring that your home has a secure, stable and leak free roof.

Would you like a Roofer to have a look at your shingles? Contact one in your area today.

Fiberglass and asphalt are the most commonly used materials for shingles. Other materials that are used for shingles include, but are not limited to the following:

• Slate
• Ceramic
• Wood
• Cement

You may need to contact a roofer for a number of reasons when it comes to your roof shingles. Your shingles may need to be aligned, or if they're old, they may need to be removed and replaced. Even if there are not any obvious problems, a roofer is suggested for maintenance to catch any problems before they progress to something more.

If you let damaged shingles slide and choose to ignore them, you are simply asking for trouble. Without properly working shingles, water can seep in and start to rot the wood sheathing. This will damage your entire roof, put your personal belongings at risk of getting wet, and end in costly roof replacement.

Would you like a Roofer to have a look at your shingles? Contact one in your area today.

Significance of the Roof

A weather-tight roof is basic in the preservation of a structure, regardless of its age, size, or design. In the system that allows a building to work as a shelter, the roof sheds the rain, shades from the sun, and buffers the weather. During some periods in the history of architecture, the roof imparts much of the architectural character. It defines the style and contributes to the building's aesthetics. The hipped roofs of Georgian architecture, the turrets of Queen Anne, the Mansard roofs, and the graceful slopes of the Shingle Style and Bungalow designs are examples of the use of roofing as a major design feature.

But no matter how decorative the patterning or how compelling the form, the roof is a highly vulnerable element of a shelter that will inevitably fail. A poor roof will permit the accelerated deterioration of historic building materials-- masonry, wood, plaster, paint--and will cause general disintegration of the basic structure. Furthermore, there is an urgency involved in repairing a leaky roof since such repair costs will quickly become prohibitive. Although such action is desirable as soon as a failure is discovered, temporary patching methods should be carefully chosen to prevent inadvertent damage to sound or historic roofing materials and related features.

Before any repair work is performed, the historic value of the materials used on the roof should be understood. Then a complete internal and external inspection of the roof should be planned to determine all the causes of failure and to identify the alternatives for repair or replacement of the roofing.

Skylights

Do you enjoy natural lighting, as opposed to artificial lighting? Do you find yourself constantly leaving blinds and windows open? Perhaps a skylight is perfect for you. Skylights are simply windows in your roof, which allow sunlight to fill a room as opposed to the light from a light bulb.

Are you interested in Skylights? Contact a Roofer in your area today.

You have probably seen skylights before. Shopping malls are very common for these. If this was something you have always loved, now you can have this look in your very own home. Whether your living room, bedroom, or every room in the house, skylights can offer a number of benefits. Some of those benefits are the following:

• Rooms appear larger
• Your home will have a unique look
• You will save on electricity (you will rarely need lights during the day)
• Great for houseplants

There are many different types of skylights available. The three main types are tubular, ventilating, and fixed. Tubular skylights are great for much smaller spaces, as opposed to a large room. Fixed skylights cannot be closed or changed in anyway, where as ventilating skylights can. Imagine, being able to look up in your home and seeing the stars. This is a possibility with skylights. Are you ready to add a unique look to your home and add overall value to your home as well? If you love the feeling of being outside, you can feel that a little bit inside of your home as well. Contact a roofer in your area today.

Are you interested in Skylights? Contact a Roofer in your area today.

Slate

A material that is extremely common that is used in the construction of roofs, is slate. If you are having leaks in your home, you may need to have the slate repaired, or even replaced. A lot of the time, the problem starts long before leaks even occur. This is why it is crucial to get inspections to make sure everything is in proper working order.

Would you like a roofer to inspect your slate roof for any problems? Contact a Roofer today.

When getting your roof inspected for any problems that may be starting, one of the key things that is looked at which can determine what may happen is, of course, the condition and age of the slate. Obviously, the older your slate is and the worse the condition is, the more prone you will be to roof related problems. Another factor that is looked at is the type of slate that your roof utilizes. There are many different types of slate, which include:

• Graduated Slate
• Textural Slate
• French Method Slate
• Other Variations

Although a slate roof problem can usually be detected by a leak, you can't rely on a leak to be the only thing to tell you a problem is going on. You need the expertise of a professional roofer. Do not attempt to examine or fix the slate yourself. Contact a Roofer today.

Would you like a roofer to inspect your slate roof for any problems? Contact a Roofer today.

Snow Removal

Most areas in the United States, even northern parts of Florida, are subjected to the possibility of snow at some point in the Winter. This is especially true for the more northern States, where snow is pretty much expected. This puts millions of homes at risk of having large amounts of snow on their roofs, which can lead to water damage if not taken care of.

Do you need snow removed from your roof? Contact a Roofer in your area today.

Failure to have the snow removed from your roof can lead to a number of costly and time consuming problems. Instead of waiting for it to melt away, consider the necessity of a roofer to remove it for you. Don't risk the aggravation and headaches! Keep in mind that failing to remove the snow can cause the following:

• Leaks
• Damaged Shingles
• Other damage to your roof
• Damage to possessions inside your home

While it may not seem like a difficult task, snow removal should not be done by anyone other than a Roofing professional. Snow and ice can become very slick on a roof top, which just increases the dangers and risk of falling from your roof. Unless you want to wind up severely injured, or even fatally injured, it is highly recommended to contact a Roofer when it comes to snow removal.

Do you need snow removed from your roof? Contact a Roofer in your area today.

Solar Attic Fans

Solar Attic Fans are fans that are mounted on the roof. If you have an attic, you should definitely consider the very wise investment of a Solar Attic Fan. Since these types of fans are mounted and inserted through your roof, it is not something you should attempt to do yourself. A professional roofer can ensure the proper installation of a Solar Attic Fan without damaging your roof in any way.

Are you interested in having a Solar Attic Fan installed? Contact a Roofer in your area today.

As most people know, fans can help cut down energy costs due to the reduced usage of air conditioning. This is especially true in attics; an attic can get extremely warm, especially in the summertime. A solar attic fan will help to reduce these warm temperatures with free solar energy. Solar attic fans offer a number of benefits including the following:

• Cool attic temperatures
• Prevention of water damage from melting snow
• Prevention of mold growth
• And much more

If you are looking for a more energy efficient way to cool down your attic, a solar attic fan is your best choice. The best part about a solar powered attic fan is that once you purchase it and have it installed, it doesn't cost you anything to operate it from that point on. How can it get any better? It's free!

Are you interested in having a Solar Attic Fan installed? Contact a Roofer in your area today.

Solar Heating and Cooling

Using passive solar design techniques to heat and cool your home can be both environmentally friendly and cost effective. Passive solar heating techniques include placing larger, insulated windows on south-facing walls and locating thermal mass, such as a concrete slab floor or a heat-absorbing wall, close to the windows. In many cases, you can cut your heating costs by more than 50% compared with the cost of heating the same house that does not include passive solar design.

Passive solar design can also help reduce your cooling costs. Passive solar cooling techniques include carefully designed overhangs,windows with reflective coatings, and the use of reflective coatings on exterior walls and the roof.

A passive solar house requires careful design and site orientation, which depend on the local climate. So, if you are considering passive solar design for new construction or a major remodeling, you should consult an architect familiar with passive solar techniques.

Solar Tips

• Keep all south-facing glass clean.
• Make sure that objects do not block the sunlight shining on concrete slab floors or heat-absorbing walls.

Solar Panels

Many homes today are equipped with solar panels placed on the roof. These panels collect thermal energy from the sun to generate hot water for the home. They are priced reasonably and are fairly easily to install.  However, some roofing companies can install the panels for you.

Need the help of one of our professional roofers? Click here!

Most panels run on an efficiency rating of 40-60%.  One panel can heat a 15 gallon tank.  Two panels can heat between 30-35 gallons.  Three panels can heat 35-50 gallons.  Four panels can heat 50-70 gallons.

Solar panels:

• Have no moving parts
• Require no fueling
• Are constructed with crystalline silicon
• Last 20-25 years
• Cost about $4.30 per watt

The sun provides energy to these panels through thermonuclear explosions. Helium and hydrogen atoms bond together during these explosions and are released into space as radiation. Traveling at the speed of light, the atoms reach us and are converted into energy by solar panels.

Receive the help of our professional roofers. They can assist you with all your roofing needs.

Solar Roofs Plan In California

Concluding a two-year effort to help make California the nation’s leader in solar energy, Gov. Schwarzenegger signed SB 1 by Senator Kevin Murray (D-Los Angeles), putting the finishing touches on the Governor’s Million Solar Roofs Plan.

“When I ran for governor, I vowed to make the environment the centerpiece of my administration and turn back the clock on pollution,” said Gov. Schwarzenegger. “My Million Solar Roofs Plan will provide 3,000 megawatts of additional clean energy and reduce the output of greenhouse gasses by 3 million tons which is like taking one million cars off the road. I want to thank Sen. Kevin Murray for his hard work in helping me make California the leader on solar power again.”

Last year, the Governor asked the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) to implement his Million Solar Roofs plan. Dubbed the California Solar Initiative by the CPUC, the plan will lead to one million solar roofs in California by 2018.

Specifically, SB 1 implements the portions of the Million Solar Roofs plan that the CPUC does not have the authority to mandate, including:

• Expanding the Program: The current implementation of the Million Solar Roofs plan only applies to customers of Pacific Gas and Electric, Southern California Edison and San Diego Gas and Electric. SB 1 expands the program to customers of the municipal-owned utilities such as SMUD and LADWP.
• Crediting Consumers for Excess Power Produced: Consumers who install solar panels on their homes and businesses can sell excess energy back to power companies for credit on their monthly bills. This credit is a key incentive for consumers to install solar panels. Currently, the cap on the number of customers who can use this option is .5 percent. SB 1 raises this to 2.5 percent. Raising the ceiling will provide part of the needed financial incentive to bring more solar power on to the grid.
• Making Solar Power a Standard Item on New Homes: SB 1 would require a developer of more than 50 new single family homes offer the option of a solar energy system to all customers beginning January 1, 2011. One million solar roofs will greatly increase the state’s rooftop solar energy capacity, providing the output equivalent of five modern electric power plants. This program’s 3,000 megawatt goal, taken together with other aggressive solar initiatives such as requiring utilities to acquire 20 percent of the power used within the state from renewable sources, will make California once again a world leader in solar power.

'Tech Set' Helps Build Storm-Resistant Roofs

The latest Tech Set from the Partnership for Advancing Technology in Housing (PATH) shows builders in areas prone to hurricanes how to build storm-resistant roofs that protect against structural failure and water infiltration.

The fifth in a series, the Tech Set recommends that builders use:

• Hipped rather than gabled roofs to better withstand strong winds
• Secondary moisture barriers to prevent water infiltration
• Hurricane straps to increase disaster resistance
• Baffled ridge and soffit vents to minimize roof penetrations

PATH notes that a strong, durable roof is a home's first line of protection against a major storm, and that most storm-related damage is not caused by outright structural failure, but by water infiltration, which can lead to mold.

Most of the recommendations for building roofs that can stand up to high winds add minimal additional costs, and many can be beneficial in areas outside of the hurricane belt, according to PATH.

$45,000 project will soon begin at Mt. Vernon Appellate Court Building

Capital Development Board (CDB) Executive Director Jan Grimes today announced that a $45,000 project to replace the roof on the Appellate Court Building in Mt. Vernon will soon begin, protecting the state’s investment in this historic 1854 structure.

“The Appellate Court Building has been an important part of Mt. Vernon for 153 years, and we want to make sure it stays that way. I thank Governor Blagojevich for approving the funds so this vital work can proceed,” said Grimes.

The project will remove and replace about 5,836 square feet of the existing shingle roof. The current roof has deteriorated, and this work will prevent leaks that could damage the building. The roof replacement will also maintain the historic character of the structure.

The project is overseen by CDB, which manages all state-funded construction, repair and rehabilitation projects. Construction is expected to begin this month and be complete by the end of 2007. Kehrer Brothers of Albers, Illinois, with offices in Mt. Vernon, will perform the work.

“This project is excellent news for the employees that work in the Appellate Court Building,” said Sen. John O. Jones (R-Mt. Vernon). “With the addition of a new roof to the structure, we are able to preserve this pre-Civil War historic building in southern Illinois that has served our citizens for so long.”

U.S. Department of Labor's OSHA forms safety and health alliance with Chicago roofers to protect thousands in construction industry

Reducing injuries and worksite hazards and enhancing safety and health for roofing employees in the greater Chicago area are the goals of a new alliance joining the U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the Chicago Roofing Contractors Association (CRCA).

"OSHA and the Chicago Roofing Contractors Association will work closely to share best practices, as well as develop and implement safety and health training for temporary employees," said Kathy O'Connell, OSHA's area director in Aurora, Ill. "If we can provide these employees with the knowledge and ability to anticipate, identify and eliminate work-related hazards, we will get that much closer to eliminating job-related injuries."

The CRCA is a local trade association of roofing and waterproofing contractors, manufacturers, distributors and consultants in the greater Chicago area. Its more than 275 members have joined forces to address issues important to the roofing industry, including employee safety and health.

OSHA health and safety alliances are part of U.S. Labor Secretary Elaine L. Chao's ongoing efforts to improve the health and safety of employees through cooperative partnerships. OSHA currently has 456 alliances throughout the nation with organizations committed to fostering safety and health in the workplace.

Weatherproof Your House

Americans live in the most severe weather-prone country on earth. Tropical depressions and tropical storms, while generally less dangerous than hurricanes, still can be deadly. The winds of tropical depressions and tropical storms are usually heavy rains, flooding and severe weather. Tornadoes, create the greatest threats from tropical storms and depressions. On average each year, 10 tropical storms, 6 of which become hurricanes, develop in the Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea or Gulf of Mexico. In a typical 3-year span, the U.S. coastline is struck on average five times by hurricanes, two of which will be designated as major hurricanes.

Contact a local roofer to prepare your home structure for the next season of blizzards and natural disasters

Each Year, Americans Cope With An Average Of:

• 10,000 Thunderstorms
• 2,500 Floods
• 1,000 Tornadoes
• 6 Deadly Hurricanes

The affects of extremely cold temperatures will vary in differing areas of the country. In certain warmer climate areas of the country, near freezing temperatures are frequently referred to as extreme cold. However, in colder climate areas of the country this weather may seem mild. In any event which temperatures dip much lower than normal in any given region or the wind speed increases rapidly, heat will dissipate from a home quickly. These weather related conditions may lead to serious home problems. Extreme cold is a dangerous situation, you should prepare your old home that may be poorly insulated or without heat to protect your family.

Conditions Of Extreme Cold:

• Loss Of Heat (poor insulation)
• Frozen Pipes (old pipes)
• Caving Roof From Heavy Snow (old roof structures)
• Main Heating System Shut Down (need back-up)

Profession local builders with recommend certain features to ensure your home is protected for the disaster.

These Recommendations Included:

• Impact Resistant Windows Installed
• Secured Roofs With Durable Tie Downs
• Secured Roof Tiles
• Well Built Roofs For Heavy Snow & Ice
• Storm Shutters
• Flexible Gas Lines

Securing Your Homes Structure

Tornados
In the scary event of a tornado, no residence can be completely safe, but some planning and caution can seriously prevent tragic consequences. A local builder will strengthen the areas of connection between the wall studs and roof rafters with hurricane clips. Should a tornado bear down upon your house, attention to construction details will go a long way in ensuring the structural safety of your home as well as you and your loved ones.

Earthquakes
Local Builders encourage design and building practices that address the earthquake hazard and minimize the resulting damage to both life and property. Homeowners of one and two family residences to employ construction practices intended to provide resistance to damage from earthquakes. having a Our professional builders will exceeded codes standards for residential units and build structural features that are positioned, dimensioned, constructed and interconnected properly to resist earthquakes.

Contact a local roofer to prepare your home structure for the next season of blizzards and natural disasters