NJ Roofing Blog » copper

Copper Roofing: Perfect Marriage of Beauty & Function

Lukasz Sobczuk — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 16:23:58 +0000

From elegant estates to industrial facilities, copper roofing supplies character and longevity that few other roofing materials can match.

Appreciated for its warm, rich color and weather-resistant durability, copper roofing is considered one of today’s most sought-after roofing materials—no matter what your building style.

Copper is not a new roofing phenomenon, as it is found on buildings that are centuries old. Popular in historic structures, this beautiful metal roofing material is valued for a variety of reasons.

Copper Roofing Advantages

Weather and climate resistance: Copper roofing is an enduring material that resists earthquakes, strong winds, record heat and more. In addition, copper roofing will protect your structure from flooding, and can withstand torrential storms and safeguard your building from leaks when properly installed. Because of its amazing durability, your NJ copper roof will last far longer than asphalt or shake shingles.
Unmatched aesthetics: Copper develops a “patina,” or blue-green color, as it weathers. When this rich patina mingles with the metal’s warm tones, the result is uniquely beautiful.
Innovative installation: Over the years, many tools have been developed to assist in the simple, efficient installation of copper roofing. While copper takes minimal surface preparation in most cases, it’s always best to have a NJ roofing contractor install your new roof.
Proven safety: Copper roofs are inflammable, supplying excellent resistance for homes and businesses in fire-prone areas.
Lightweight: With the installation of any NJ roofing material, there is always a risk of putting excess stress on your home or business structure. Fortunately, copper roofing is lightweight—making it an especially wise investment for areas facing heavy snowfall.

When married with its robust design, the beauty of copper roofing lends instant curb appeal to any structure—whether residential or commercial.

To learn more about copper roofing options for NJ home and business owners, schedule a consultation or speak with an expert NJ roofing contractor, call LGC Roofing at 609-712-8157 today.

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Metal Roofing Options for Residential Roofing

Lukasz Sobczuk — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 15:27:04 +0000

Metal roofing has always been a popular option for commercial facilities, warehouses and agricultural buildings, and it continues to grow more popular in residential roofing, as well.

Enjoyed for its look, versatility and durability, metal roofing is available in a wide range of colors, materials and styles. In fact, it is considered one of the most sought-after roofing choices on today’s market.

Metal roofing offers many benefits to those interested in alternatives to shingle. It is particularly cost effective for New Jersey homes, since it is made to endure both ends of the weather spectrum. During spring and summer, metal reflects the sun’s rays, lowering your utility bills. It also protects your NJ residential roof from high wind and hail damage. Many insurance companies offer discounts to homeowners who install metal roofs, since some metal roofing has been known to endure the impact of golf-ball-sized hail.

During NJ winter months, metal roofs are designed to insulate your home and withstand heavy snow loads. When installed with a proper slope, these roofs also shed snow efficiently—so there is little chance of ice damming or structural damage due to snow buildup.

Popular Metal Roofing Materials

Three common metal roofing options include copper, steel and aluminum. Each comes with many advantages, including energy efficiency, sustainability and improved home value. Depending upon your personal choice, they are an attractive, durable option for NJ residential roofs.

Copper Roofing: Copper roofing is a popular option for homeowners who appreciate the color change as their roof ages. Tarnishing from a yellow-brown sheen to a greenish gray “patina” over time, copper roofs are recyclable, lightweight and can last up to 100 years when installed by a qualified NJ roofing contractor.

Steel Roofing: New Jersey steel roofs come in a range of colors and textures, and are more affordable than copper styles. Like copper, steel roofs are lightweight—and rarely require your NJ roofer to reinforce the roof’s structure during installation. Steel roofs also have the highest fireproof rating (Class A), making them an attractive option that reduces insurance premiums.

Aluminum Roofing: Available in corrugated or smooth styles, aluminum is a lightweight, durable roofing choice. While steel is often painted to achieve the finished look, aluminum roofs are typically left unpainted. Aluminum usually costs more than steel because of its ability to naturally withstand corrosion.

To learn more about NJ metal roofing options, contact LGC Roofing today. Serving residential clients with NJ roofing replacement, repair and maintenance, we supply free estimates, unmatched service and high-performance roofing solutions for all homes and budgets.

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Pros and Cons of Copper Roofing

Lukasz Sobczuk — Tue, 16 Aug 2011 15:02:44 +0000

Metal roofs are becoming increasingly popular as homeowners seek long-lasting, eco-friendly alternatives to asphalt shingles and other traditional roofing materials.

Pros and Cons of Copper Roofing

One of today’s most aesthetic, popular metal roofing selections is copper. Copper roofing is striking, especially as it ages. Established copper roofs develop a unique, blue/green “patina” over time, and they look extraordinary when paired with wooden or brick exteriors of a complementary color. While more costly than other metal roofing types, copper serves to boost your structure’s curb appeal while substantially increase its resale value.

The benefits of copper roofing go beyond aesthetics, though. Copper is one of the most fireproof roofing materials on the market; it’s also highly water-resistant, and is excellent at preventing rainwater from penetrating your home.

Like all metal roofing materials, copper is long-lasting, with a life expectancy of at least 50 years. This far exceeds the expected lifespan of cheaper roofing materials.

Copper’s light weight is also well worth considering, especially given the relatively high levels of New Jersey snowfall. Because it is such a light material, it puts little stress on your home’s structural elements and foundation: helping owners avoid the costly problems associated with such stresses.

While copper is a superior roofing material overall, there are a few drawbacks that should be considered. First, like all metal roofs, copper roofing is noisy during storms. It tends to amplify weather noise, rather than dampening it. Also, as temperatures change over the seasons, copper roofs can expand and contract significantly, and this can loosen the roof’s fasteners. You will need to draw on the expertise of a skilled NJ roofing contractor to prevent these problems, as there are technologies available to inhibit copper’s natural expansion and contraction.

Considering Copper Roof? Contact LGC Roofing

The metal roofing experts at LGC Roofing are pleased to offer copper among our diverse and eye-catching line of residential and commercial metal roof products. Our installation professionals have the experience and expertise to install and repair all brands of copper roofing, and are known for their efficient, courteous manner. To learn more about copper roofing or request a no-obligation price quote for your home or business, please contact our NJ roofing team today.

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Metal Roof Installation Tips for Do-It-Yourselfers

Lukasz Sobczuk — Tue, 11 Jan 2011 14:34:43 +0000

Appreciated for its ease of installation, superior fire resistance and lightweight design, metal roofing is a durable, attractive roofing choice for homes and businesses.

With a few essential tools, a safe ladder and heavy-duty work boots, metal roof installation is fairly straightforward. However, copper, aluminum and steel roofing sheets can be unwieldy and hard to manage, so it’s helpful to have someone assist with the job.

Metal Roof Installation Tips

When constructed properly, your metal roof is designed to last a lifetime.

Remember to keep the following things in mind before beginning metal roof installation. Improper installation could void the warranty on your new roofing materials.

When measuring for your roofing materials, include three to six inches of layer overlap and three to six inches of overhang along the roof’s perimeter. When finalizing your material purchase, keep in mind that a metal roofing square is 100 square feet—since you’ll be purchasing materials by number of roofing squares.
Make sure that your roof’s underlayment is solid and leak-free before beginning installation. If you notice soft spots on the roof sheeting—or areas of mildew and dry rot—it’s time to replace your underlayment. Consider investing extra money in breathable underlayment materials. While they’re more expensive, they’ll prevent vapor buildup that leads to costly roof deck rot.
If you’re installing corrugated metal sheets or flat-lock metal roofs, ensure that seams are properly pressed together to prevent leaks and warping. If your roof is not properly sealed along the seams, you could develop unwanted water damage during blowing storms and heavy snowfall.
After installing your metal roof, walk carefully across it. Walking around on the roof surface can cause punctures, or may force one layer away from another—exposing the underlayment to future water damage.

When properly installed, your metal roof comes with a laundry list of benefits that includes:

Long life
Significantly lower energy costs
Environmentally friendly options (recycled metal roofing)
Wide range of colors and styles
30- to 50-year warranties

Considering a new copper, aluminum or steel roof? Metal roofs are perfect for New Jersey homes and businesses.

If you’re not comfortable installing metal roofing yourself, contact the NJ metal roof experts to request an installation estimate or materials consultation. Perfect for extreme weather, heavy precipitation and forested areas, metal roofs are a beautiful, enduring way to protect your home and increase its value.

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Choosing Copper Roofing For Your NJ Home

Lukasz Sobczuk — Wed, 18 Aug 2010 07:02:49 +0000

While it comes with a price tag that’s higher than other metals, copper roofing lends durability and character to any structure—no matter what the size or style.

From traditional Victorian, Colonial and Tudor homes to postmodern and contemporary buildings, copper roofing is a preferred roofing material chosen for its architectural beauty and long-lasting construction.

Benefits of Copper Roofing

Other than its obvious aesthetic value, copper roofs come with many undisputed benefits. For instance, did you know that when a copper roof is installed at industry-best standards, it requires no painting or finishing? Many other roofing materials need to be sealed, finished or painted in some way—which leads to additional cost and long-term maintenance requirements. Copper is strong, attractive and resilient—all on its own.
It’s important to note that the finish of your New Jersey copper-clad roof will change with time. Natural weathering, moisture and oxidations will turn the roof’s golden-brown tone to a green “patina” finish. Many homeowners agree that this is the beauty of copper roofing. However, if you prefer the original color, ask your New Jersey roofing professional about treatment methods that slow the weathering process. Remember—the changing finish of your copper roof will not negatively impact its performance.
While copper roofs have been around for over a century, they never go out of style. The timeless metal is used to protect homes, shopping malls, places of worship and sports facilities—among other building types.
One of the most significant reasons for copper’s popularity is its sustainable, energy-efficient design. For home and business owners searching for a Green roofing option, copper fits the bill. First, it’s made primarily of refinery scrap—so it does not require excessive use of natural resources. Second, it is easily recycled at the end of its lifespan, and third—it reflects the sun’s rays, preventing heat transmission and reducing cooling bills.

Perhaps the most important reason to consider a copper roof is its durability—and the positive impact that has on your home investment.

According to Metal Roofing Alliance President William Hippard, metal roofs add up to $1.45 per square foot to your home’s overall value.

LGC Roofing Installs Copper

Your new copper roof will protect and beautify your home or business for decades—especially if it’s installed correctly. For more information about copper roofing brands, call LGC Roofing at 609-712-8157, or request a free estimate via our brief contact form.

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Selecting a Metal Roof – 5 Buyer Tips

Lukasz Sobczuk — Fri, 27 Nov 2009 19:53:17 +0000

It’s important to consider both function and aesthetics when selecting a roof for your home, and many homeowners choose metal roofing because of its durability and stylish design. In addition, metal roofing adds value to homes through its insulative benefits—which can lead to reduced utility costs, lower insurance premiums, home appreciation and tax credits.

Buyer Tips

Most types of metal roofing require little upkeep once installed, so the selection process is based upon

personal taste, and
cost of materials and installation.

Keep the following tips in mind as you choose your new roof:

Look at metal roofing options from 20+ feet away before purchasing. When viewed from a distance, you may not like the color or sheen—or you may determine that the selection doesn’t complement your home’s architectural style.
When shopping for a metal roof, bring a swatch or piece of wood that represents your home’s paint color. Make sure the roofing color you select is an attractive match for your siding.
Determine what look you’re trying to achieve with your new roof. Do you prefer a rustic, corrugated design or something more modern? Today’s metal roofs come in styles that emulate cedar shake, slate and tile designs, and they last longer and require less maintenance.
Consider your budget. Steel roofing is typically the cheapest option, while stainless steel, aluminum and copper are more expensive (read more about the specifics of metal roofing materials including advantages and disadvantages of metal roofing).
Decide whether you prefer a straight, metal sheen, a painted style or a textured look. Many of the new metal roofing materials are coated in ceramic granules (to look like stone) or painted and then coated with epoxy.

While many homeowners are concerned that a metal roof would be too heavy for their home’s structure, many metal roofs are up to 50-percent lighter than traditional roofing materials. The downside is that metal roofing is difficult to install on your own, however, so you’ll definitely need the assistance of a qualified New Jersey roofing specialist, instead. Call LGC Roofing today at 609-712-8157 to discuss metal roofing options or schedule a no-obligation metal roof consultation.

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Advantages and Disadvantages of Metal Roofing

Lukasz Sobczuk — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 22:44:59 +0000

The National Roofing Contractors Association reports that metal roofs have become significantly more popular over the last ten years. If you tuned in for our September blog on metal roofing, you know that there are several materials options to choose from—depending on your personal taste and roofing requirements. But is a metal roof for you? Let’s examine the pros and cons.

Benefits of Metal Roofing

Home and business owners can still purchase corrugated, barn-style metal roofs, but today’s roofing has evolved significantly. It has become high-tech, with a clean look that suits the architectural style of many homes and businesses. Consider the other benefits of upgrading your roof to metal.

Durability: Despite being surprisingly lightweight, metal roofing is extremely sturdy. It’s non-combustible, offering the highest fire-retardant rating available. In addition, it stands up to hail, wind and severe storms—and often comes with a 30-year+ warranty.
Attractive Design: If you’re not looking for a basic, contemporary metal design, new metal roofing styles are covered in colorful topcoats or granulated finishes to mimic Spanish tiles, slate tiles and even wood shakes. These new designs allow you to enjoy the durability of metal while improving your home’s curb appeal.
Installation Speed: Metal roofs cost more than other styles, but they are often installed over existing shingle layers—which can save homeowners labor expenses in the long run.
Energy Efficiency: Excellent for reflecting the sun, a metal roof can protect your home from the sun’s heat and damaging rays. In addition, metal roofing helps to shed snow buildup in cold climates.

Drawbacks to Metal Roofing

While there are few disadvantages to metal roofs, remember that they come with a premium initial price tag. However, if you plan to live in your home for 10 years or more, you’ll reap the benefits of your investment with low maintenance costs, high durability and a lasting look.

You may find the sound of rain on a metal roof to be relaxing, but it’s also important to point out that metal roofs can be noisy. Your professional installer can minimize noise with insulation and solid wood sheathing, but you cannot completely deaden the sound.

Finally, if you’re a do-it-yourselfer, you’ll likely find metal roofing trickier to modify than asphalt, composite or shake shingles. In fact, professional installation, repair and modification is always recommended to optimize the life of metal roofing products.

At LGC Roofing, we offer homeowners a variety of premium metal roofing products—from painted aluminum to steel and copper styles. Call 609-712-8157 today for a product estimate, or to schedule a free, one-on-one roofing consultation.

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Selecting a Metal Roof Material

Lukasz Sobczuk — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 02:59:15 +0000

If the thought of a metal roof conjures up images of industrial facilities and aging barns, it’s time to adjust your thinking.

Metal roofs are becoming increasingly popular among home and business owners, and their profiles are far more stylish than you might think. And while you’ll probably pay more upfront for a metal roof, its durability, energy efficiency and ease of installation make it a cost-effective investment for many consumers.

Metal Roofing Options

The most common metal roofing material options include steel, stainless steel, copper and aluminum. Pricing varies based upon the property of the metal—such as its longevity, appearance and installation requirements.

Steel: A strong, safe roofing option, steel roofs are durable enough to withstand most severe rain, snow, hail and windstorms. Steel resists fire damage, reflects heat and offers insulation from cold. To prevent corrosion, steel roofs are typically coated in zinc and sealed for extra protection. If you’re hoping to match your roof color to that of your home, ask for a durable, baked-on acrylic top coat. Considering an eco-friendly roof replacement? Inquire about steel roofing created from 100-percent recycled materials.
Stainless steel: Markedly more expensive than steel, stainless steel roofs are a beautiful, modern option for homes and businesses. Stainless steel resists corrosion, and can be terne-coated with an alloy mixture to reduce its sheen and give it a more natural appearance.
Copper: Offering unmatched aesthetic appeal, copper is a lightweight architectural choice. As copper ages, it begins to take on a “patina” finish—which, to many homeowners, is even more desirable than its initial look. One of the lightest, least corrosive metal roofing options, copper has few disadvantages aside from its high cost.
Aluminum: The cost for aluminum roofing varies, depending on the local roofing market, but it typically costs more than the installation of standard steel roofing. It is, however, very lightweight, noncorrosive and easy to manipulate—making it a popular option for complex roofing designs. Aluminum is also a sustainable choice, since it can be crafted from recycled materials. Most homeowners prefer to paint or epoxy-coat aluminum, though, since it is not as attractive in its “raw” state.

New Jersey’s Metal Roofing Experts

If it’s time to replace your roof, contact the metal roofing experts at LGC Roofing. Ask our professional installers about metal roofing material options, or call today to schedule a home or business roofing estimate.

Selecting Residential Rain Gutters

Lukasz Sobczuk — Sun, 19 Jul 2009 23:16:00 +0000

Rainwater management is critical to protecting your New Jersey home’s structural integrity, including the foundation, siding, paint, landscaping and decking. Unfortunately, residential rain gutters are an often-overlooked construction element. Whether you’re building a new home or restoring your older one, do your homework to determine which gutter material fits your needs and your budget.

Rain Gutter Material Options

When choosing the rain gutter material best suited for your New Jersey residence, consider cost, aesthetics, durability and maintenance. The following is a basic guide to common gutter materials and their features:

Aluminum: An economical choice for homeowners, aluminum gutters are lightweight and easy to install. Residents appreciate aluminum’s durable, low-maintenance design, and the fact that it’s rust-proof and tolerant of extreme temperatures. Choose from a variety of enamel finish colors to complement your New Jersey home’s exterior.
Vinyl: Preferred by do-it-yourselfers, vinyl rain gutters are known for their manageable installation, economic value and maintenance-free durability. Dent resistant and impervious to corrosion, vinyl gutters come in dozens of colors. While vinyl is a practical choice for homeowners living in temperate climates, it becomes brittle and may crack if exposed to routine, extreme cold.
Stainless steel and copper: If cost isn’t a concern, stainless steel and copper are widely recognized as some of the most aesthetically pleasing, durable rain gutter materials on the market. Best when installed by an expert, stainless steel and copper rain gutters will provide your home with exterior polish and years of low-maintenance functionality.
Wood: If the fine look of your New Jersey home trumps its cost and maintenance, you may enjoy the classic characteristics of fir, cedar and redwood gutters. Less common than the mass-produced materials above, wood rain gutters are a popular, beautiful choice for aging home restoration projects.

The price of rain gutters ranges from $5 to $25 per linear foot, depending on the material, so it’s important to educate yourself before choosing a budget-friendly, visually pleasing and optimally functional system. Contact us today to inquire about gutter options, talk with our New Jersey roofing experts or schedule an installation estimate.