NJ Roofing Blog » composite

Slate Roofing Material Options: Composite vs. Original Slates

Lukasz Sobczuk — Tue, 27 Mar 2012 14:44:28 +0000

When home or business owners are searching for the most aesthetically pleasing roof, slate roofing is often at the top of the list.

When it comes to slate roofing, you have two distinct choices, both of which offer benefits & drawbacks. Original slate roofing tiles are formed from stone, while composite slate is made from recycled plastic and rubber that are combined to look like original slate.

While both are visually appealing, there are some differences in slate roofing types that your local NJ roofer can help you sort out.

Cost

Original slate is more expensive than composite slate. Because of its extreme durability and beauty, it is one of the most expensive roofing options. Composite slate can be 25-75% less expensive than original slate.

Looks

Nothing compares to the beauty of original slate roofing. It comes in many color variations and has a timeless, elegant look. However, if original slate is not in your price range, composite slate is a close contender. Composite slate also comes in many color choices and has the same look as original slate—at a much lower cost.

Installation

Original slate may take your NJ roofing contractor longer to install than composite slate. Because it is heavier, a slate roofing expert will need to look at your original roof to make sure it does not need additional support before installation. Composite slate can often be installed on top of an existing roof, making installation much quicker.

Maintenance

Original slate is loved for its looks as well as its durability. It can last 100 years or more with almost no maintenance. It is excellent at repelling water, resisting the often harsh New Jersey weather, and is completely fireproof. Composite slate is also a low-maintenance choice. It too, is fireproof, can withstand the elements, and is actually designed to last even longer than original slate.

Sustainability

Original slate is an eco-friendly choice, since it is made from all natural materials that are recyclable. Composite slate is even more sustainable, since it is 100% recyclable, reflects heat from the sun, and helps with energy costs.

Call Today!

If you are planning to replace your roof with a material that is not only eye-catching, but long lasting and nearly maintenance free, look no further than original slate roofing. If the higher cost or increased weight of original slate is a concern, a sustainable, composite slate may be the ideal choice.

To schedule a free estimate, call LCG Roofing, your qualified NJ slate roofing contractor. Our team of experts will assess your current roof and help you determine which roofing material is the best investment—and the wisest choice for your New Jersey home. Call (609) 712-8157 today!

Incoming search terms:

Commercial Roofing: Why Slate is a Great Roofing Option

Lukasz Sobczuk — Tue, 28 Feb 2012 14:50:33 +0000

Does your new or existing commercial building need a unique architectural element to set it apart? Are you concerned about roof maintenance, repair, and eventual replacement costs? Installing a slate roofing may be the perfect solution to both your design and maintenance considerations.

What Makes Slate Roofing Attractive for Commercial Use?

Valued for its durability and elegance, slate roofing has been used for hundreds of years on some of the region’s most prized public buildings. Today, the same qualities make it a good choice for your commercial roofing needs. The benefits of using slate for your commercial roofing application are many, and include:

Versatility: Property owners who are seeking an elegant, historical, or distinctive look for their buildings should consider slate roofing installation for the surprisingly wide variety of colors and shades, patterns and textures. Made of natural stone, slate comes in red and brown earth tones, as well as shades of blue, grey, and green. Because slates are made by following the natural cleavage of stone, they are uneven in texture and thickness. This adds character to your building’s architecture. Today, composite slates offer the same design, color, and texture variety in a lower-cost, lightweight alternative.
Durability: Commonly called “the hundred year roof,” slate is found on some of the Northeast’s oldest historic buildings. With proper installation and maintenance, a slate roof will last 60 or more years: considerably longer than most commercial roofing installations. In fact, slate roofs typically carry a 50 year warranty from leading manufacturers. The key to a long-lasting slate roof is professional installation, regular inspections and maintenance by a reputable contractor.
Ease of maintenance: With proper installation, slate roofing maintenance is usually very straight forward. Slate is naturally fireproof, leak-proof, and resistant to corrosion, mold, and insects. Repairs are relatively simple and may involve removing or replacing only damaged slates. If the slates removed are intact, they can be reinstalled after the underlying repair is made. Specialized equipment is necessary to avoid damage to slates, so repairs and maintenance should always be performed by professionals.
Eco-friendliness: Slate roofing is a natural stone material that can simply be returned to the ground instead of taken to the landfill. In addition, slate roofing installation does not involve harsh chemicals, so there is no need to dispose of hazardous wastes.

To explore the advantages of slate roofing for your commercial property, contact LGC Roofing, your leading New Jersey roofing contractors. With over two decades of experience, our expertise is unparalleled. Call 609-712-8157 to schedule your free installation estimate today!

Incoming search terms:

5 Easy Shingle Roofing Repairs That Will Extend the Life of Your Roof

Lukasz Sobczuk — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 14:42:13 +0000

Despite the rising interest in materials like copper and tile, most roofs are still made of shingles.

Replacing a shingle roof can be a pricey proposition, so it’s beneficial to understand simple fixes and preventive measures that extend roof life and protect your roofing investment.

5 Easy Shingle Roofing Repairs

Here are five easy repair tasks that can prevent premature aging and decay of your roof shingles:

Apply a liquid polymer coating. These coatings can help stave off water and weather damage and keep your shingles looking newer for longer. They are widely available through home improvement retailers, and can be applied in just a few hours. These coatings work best when used on new shingle roofs.
Replace worn shingles promptly. If your shingles wear out or fall off, your naked roof is exposed to wind, sleet, snow, hail and rain, which will eventually cause it to rot or leak – and that will be an even more expensive fix.
Cut overhanging branches. If you have tall trees around your house, prevent roof damage by trimming back branches that are hanging over your home. Consult local guidelines to see if you are allowed to cut branches that hang over your roof even if the tree is located on a neighboring property.
Be vigilant about your gutters. Leaves and debris in your gutters can prevent rainwater from properly draining through your downspouts, which in turn can cause damage to both your shingles and your roof. It’s recommended that you clean your gutters at least twice annually—in spring and fall.
Make regular inspections. Inspect both your roof and your attic ceilings (and any other ceilings in direct contact with your roof) for signs of exterior or interior damage, wear, leaks, rot or structural problems. If you find any, repair them right away; the longer you leave them, the more expensive the fixes will become.

If you need professional advice, or if you’ve encountered a roofing problem that’s beyond your ability to repair, you can trust LGC Roofing to provide reliable and affordable services for home roofing repair in NJ. We provide free, no-obligation estimates for both residential and commercial roofing repair services throughout New Jersey. We’re ready to make your home or business roof last decades to come.

Incoming search terms:

Residential Roofing: Fall Inspection of Your Roof Shingles

Lukasz Sobczuk — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 15:05:32 +0000

As the days get shorter and winter makes an appearance, it’s the ideal time to schedule your fall roofing inspection. Autumn is the prime time to take care of any minor roofing repairs that may be needed to keep your roof shingles healthy during the long, bitter cold.

Healthy Shingles for a Safe Roof

A shingle roof is the most popular roofing structure, though the material type varies widely. Shingles composed of wood, slate, tile or asphalt are the outward surface of your roof, and can suffer greatly during inclement weather.

Rain, snow, hail and even extreme heat can cause shingle damage, including:

• blistering
• peeling
• curling
• loss of granules
• cracking
• rotting

The exact nature of the shingle damage to your home’s roofing may vary according to recent weather events and shingle materials.

The bottom line, however, remains the same: shingle damage can lead to roof leaks, roof buckling and structural damage if it’s not caught early.

Shingle Roof Inspection

When it’s time for semi-annual roof maintenance, LCG Roofing has the experience and professionalism to manage all of your residential roofing needs.

Contact your experienced residential roofing NJ contractor to schedule a fall inspection. Fall shingle inspections are performed with utmost attention to detail, particularly around the chimney, attic vents and flashing, to make sure shingles and roof underlayment are structurally sound.

Shingle roof inspections also include assessment of gutters, siding and eaves. Signs of dry rot or water damage should be addressed in a timely fashion to prevent further damage as the wintry weather approaches.

Contact LGC Roofing today at (609) 712-8157 to inquire about fall shingle inspections or to schedule your NJ roofing repairs. We are a family-owned company that has served New Jersey since 1985, and we strive to provide total client satisfaction with every service visit!

Incoming search terms:

Is Your NJ Roofing Contractor Making These 5 Common Mistakes?

Lukasz Sobczuk — Tue, 20 Sep 2011 17:01:17 +0000

Like any trade, roofing is an art form. That’s why it’s important to select an expert NJ roofer to protect your home or business—and the value of your investment. When it’s time for a new metal, composite or wood shingle roof, make sure your roofing contractor isn’t cutting corners with these common (and costly) mistakes.

Is Your NJ Roofing Contractor Making These 5 Common Mistakes?

Fastener length: Inexperienced roofers may fasten shingles with nails that are too short. When exposed to NJ wind, heat and moisture, these fasteners can loosen, causing shingles to shift. A qualified NJ roofer should use nails that penetrate deep into plywood decking to avoid shingle shifting and displacement.
Fastener placement: Incorrect nail placement can also cause severe structural problems. Nails and fasteners should be placed underneath the upper layer of shingles, rather than allowing nail heads to be exposed to moisture and sun. Exposed nail heads corrode quickly, creating a hole where water can penetrate roofing materials and roof decking.
Flashing problems: Your NJ roofing contractor should properly install metal flashing to prevent moisture from seeping in around skylights, chimneys and roof valleys. Discuss your roofer’s flashing placement plan, and make sure he/she is preparing your roof to endure snow, ice and rain. If flashing is misaligned or not overlapped properly, water may leak into your structure’s attic or interior.
Slate coloring problems: If you made the wise decision to install a slate roof on your home or business, make sure that your roofer inspects all slate before installing it. Even when purchasing slate from a single source, coloring may very. Your NJ roofer should open each pallet and compare the consistency of the material hue/shade before slate roof installation begins. While some color differential may look attractive, excessive color difference may cause the roof to look “mismatched.”
Material overhang: Shingles and other materials should overhang the roof’s eaves. If this is not the case, when a stiff NJ wind comes along—roofing materials may be compromised—or moisture may blow in underneath the shingles’ edges. In addition, your roofer should use the proper number of fasteners per shingle for your home or business’s geographic wind zone.

LGC Roofing has been perfecting the “art of roofing” for several decades. Whether installing slate, metal, composite or wood roofing, our team takes measures to ensure your satisfaction and safeguard your roofing investment. For a roof replacement consultation—or to have our roofers evaluate existing roofing problems, call 609-712-8157, or fill out our brief form to request a free estimate today!

Incoming search terms:

Homeowners Guide to Shingle Roofing Replacement

Lukasz Sobczuk — Tue, 28 Jun 2011 14:37:10 +0000

The only thing guarding you from the harsh outside elements is your roof, so it’s an investment you can’t afford to skimp on.

If your shingle roof is more than 20 years old and is cracked, leaking or stained, it’s time to consider a shingle roof replacement.

Your new roof’s life expectancy depends on the quality of workmanship, installation and materials—so it’s crucial to choose a reliable New Jersey roofing contractor who will help you select quality, durable materials that compliment your home and enhance its resale value.

Shingle Roofing Choices

The sky’s the limit when it comes to shingle roofing options.

According to the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA), composition or asphalt shingles account for nearly 80 percent of new or replacement roofing—making it the most popular roofing material in the country.

Composition shingles are relatively inexpensive compared to alternatives such as wood, metal, tile, slate or rubber. Asphalt roofing comes in two basic types: organic and fiberglass.

Organic felt shingles consist of cellulose fiber or wood base that is saturated with asphalt.
Fiberglass shingles have a glass fiber mat that is molded to the shape of the shingle, and then coated with asphalt-containing mineral fillers.

Quality of Installation Matters

Proper installation is also key in prolonging the life of your new roof.

Before starting a shingle roof replacement project, your roofer will check the attic and roof deck flashings to evaluate the ventilation and determine the condition of the framing.

A poorly ventilated attic can build up heat and moisture, causing shingles to buckle and rafters to swell and rot.

In addition, any water damage to the underlying plywood needs to be repaired before shingle installation starts.

Flashing-related failures contribute to the majority of roof leaks. A skilled roofing contractor will fabricate and correctly install all flashings, and when shingles are fastened on the roof, the ARMA recommends corrosion-resistant nails and staples that are sufficient in length to penetrate the roof deck.

LGC Roofing Offers Superb Workmanship

When you’re ready to replace your NJ shingle roof, call the licensed experts at LGC Roofing. We never take shortcuts and ensure every step is done right!

With over two decades of experience, our family-owned roofing company can help you select the roofing material that is unique to your home. Call 609-712-8157 today to schedule a shingle roof replacement or to learn more about shingle roofing options.

Incoming search terms:

Frequently Asked Questions About Slate Roofing Installation

Lukasz Sobczuk — Tue, 24 May 2011 15:30:30 +0000

Spring is here, and with it comes the opportunity to perform upkeep on your home.

After long winters, many homeowners find that in addition to general maintenance, time and the elements have taken their tolls on one of the most important pieces of the house: the roof.

The key to maintaining a sound slate roof is diligent maintenance and inspection!

Frequently Asked Questions About Slate Roofing Installation

Age, wear and tear, and appearance affect the way you feel about your roof, so if you’re looking to update or replace your slate roof, take some time to consider the options.

If you’re a homeowner looking for slate roof replacement or repair, you may have a few questions. Here are some of the most frequently-asked questions about slate roofing installation.

FAQ #1: What are the benefits of slate roofing?

Slate is a great option for homeowners interested in a safe-low maintenance roof. They are beautiful, eco-friendly, and protect your home from damage.

Because the material is natural, every slate roof is unique.

Slate ages gracefully over time, and requires no cleaning. Maintenance and repairs are inevitable, but when it comes to repair, removing it causes minimal damage to the environment.

Unlike other roofing materials, slate requires no plastic, asphalt or fiberglass, making it safer to return to the earth and a great eco-friendly roofing option. Additionally, slate roofs offer long-standing protection against leaks, fires, and wind damage. With the appropriate maintenance, the overall reliability of this natural material is ideal for roofs intended to last for the long haul.

FAQ #2: How much does slate roofing cost?

Depending on the thickness of the material, slate roofing can range anywhere from $10-$40 per square foot. Factors to take into cost considerations include building height and the pitch of the roof. Generally, installed slate roofs cost between $10 and $20 per square foot.

FAQ #3: Do I need special framing or structure for slate?

The ideal structural setting for a slate roof is a solid deck with 16” on center framing. Slate is a heavier material, weighing approximately 800 to 1,000 pounds for a 10‘ x 10’ square. This varies by thickness: with 3/8” slate weighing around 1,500 pounds per square, each 1/8” of thickness adds an additional 500 pounds.

Weak structures will lead to a weak roof, so if you want to protect your investment, be sure your supports can handle the material. Most homes are built to handle wind and snow loads heavier than slate; if you are unsure, consult with a roofing professional.

FAQ #4: How do I maintain and repair my slate roof?

An annual inspection of your roof will help you keep it in the best possible state. Homeowners can do this themselves by looking for damaged or missing pieces of slate.

If you are looking to repair slate, contact a professional. Correct installation is the foundation for a solid roof, and mistakes can be costly to the homeowner. Depending on the age of your roof, check with local contractors for inventories of reclaimed slate for a uniform look, or purchase new squares.

Never coat slate: adding sealants, paints, or any other coverings (including shingles) will expedite the aging of the roof.

While the initial cost of slate roofing may discourage you, the long-term savings offer sound reassurance that your investment will be worthwhile. If you are ready to invest in a long-term slate roofing solution, work only with experienced professional contractors like LGC Roofing. For more information on slate roofs, or for a no-obligation quote, contact us at (609) 712-8157 or request a slate roofing installation estimate online.

Incoming search terms:

Composite Slate An Alternative To Natural Slate Roof

Lukasz Sobczuk — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 23:17:19 +0000

Many of our customers are telling us that they love slate roof look but can’t afford one. Now there is a solution to that problem.

LGC Roofing offers DaVinci composite slate roof system which is cheaper, easier to install and will last just as long as natural slate. This product will change people perspective on slate roofing.

There are quite a few advantages to composite slates, besides being easier on the wallet:

The biggest issue with natural slate roof is its weight. Most houses in the US are not designed to support this kind of weight. DaVinci slates weigh less then half the weight of regular slate so they can be installed on almost any house.
Another problem with stone slates is they can be damage very easily, by falling branches, for example. DaVinci slates are made of special kind of plastic which makes them almost unbreakable.
Composite slates don’t need any maintenance after installation where natural slates need to be inspected at least once a year.

DaVinci slates are a real good alternative for homeowners who want the “slate roof look” without paying “slate roof price” .
Please visit our gallery to see pictures of composite slate roofs we have installed lately.

Lukasz Sobczuk, LGC Roofing