Asphalt Shingle Roof Installations, Repair and Maintenance Contractors
Why Install An Asphalt Shingle Roof?
Asphalt roofing shingles are so popular because they are easy to get a hold of, cheap, lightweight and do not require a degree in rocket science to install. Any competent roofer will know how to install and maintain a roof made of asphalt roofing shingles. Contrast this to slate roofing, which requires different skills in laying down, handling and cutting altogether.
Just like any other kind of roofing materials, there are different grades of asphalt roofing shingles. The higher the grade, the more expensive they will be. But it might be cheaper to shell out now rather than later. How tough are asphalt roofing shingles? Class IV is considered tough enough to withstand hail. And you are not stuck with just gray anymore. Asphalt roofing shingles now come in a variety of colors.
Asphalt roofing shingles are made of fiberglass and an organic composite material of felt, paper and asphalt. The organic ones are heavier, less likely to blow off but are more expensive. If you are seeking to live in your home and not sell it in a few years, consider the organic alternative.
Asphalt Roofing for Commercial and Residential Properties
The modified APP torch method, most widely developed by companies such as GAF, CertainTeed, Polyglass and Malarkey, is an evolution of asphalt roofing, referred to as 'hotmop,' where the modified rolls are heat added to the roof with an open flame torch, melting the embedded asphalt and modifiers together, forming a seal. Ensure that your roofing contractor is adequately qualified and authorized to use an open flame torch on your roof like TheRapidsRoofers if you are considering an asphalt roof.
Asphalt Shingle Roof Maintenance Contractors
Moss, grime, lichen or algae overgrowth may all shorten the life of your roof. They are likely caused by gloeocapsa magma algae spores that have landed on your roof and taken up residence if you have black streaks developing on your roof. The organism has typically been growing for several months after the algae has formed into streaks, and it's high time to get it removed.
If you live in a rainy part of the country like Grand Rapids, MI, there is a fair chance that at some stage you will find moss growing on your roof. For moss to grow, the northern part of your roof, as well as any sections that remain shaded all day, will provide a wet, cool refuge.
Unfortunately, your shingle roof can be weakened by this water absorbing moss, resulting in rot if not removed. Beyond the health and function of the roof, a clean roof will improve the curb appeal and potentially increase the resale value of your homes.
According to Angieslist website, the national average for roof cleaning costs ranges from $250 to $1,000, while HomeAdvisor cites $430, although rates can be higher depending on how big your roof is, how steep your roof is, and what kind of cleaning is required. In order to remove algae, lichen, moss and soil, professionals usually use either a pressure wash or a chemical wash (made with a concentrated bleach solution).
Warranties
Many asphalt roofing shingles come with warranties lasting decades. We can order any special brand name shingles, such as Elk or Eagle. Although asphalt roofing shingles are tough, they do need your help and at least a biannual checkup in order to do their job.
You need an annual or at least a biannual roof inspection to be sure there isn’t any small problems that can turn into big headaches. Tiles can be damaged or get loose. Because of their wide availability, getting replacements is easy.
You also need to be sure your attic or upper crawlspace has adequate ventilation. The temperature outside of your home will often be a lot different than inside of your home. The roof is then hot on one side and cold on the other. This can stress asphalt roofing shingles, causing them to give up the ghost. But with a proper buffer zone between the roof and your home, the stress of the differing temperatures is lessened. If your attic or crawlspace has pools of water, mold, smells damp you need to get it fixed, just call us for help.