Slate Roofing – Frequently Asked Questions

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Available in hundreds of sizes, textures and colors, slate roofing is a beautiful & durable shield for your home or business. Additionally, slate roofing is quarried from the earth, making it a natural, recyclable way to protect any structure.

Like other roofing materials, however, slate has advantages and disadvantages.

Frequently Asked Questions about Slate Roofing

Before making a roofing choice, refer to the following list of FAQs to decide whether slate should be your material of choice.

• Where does slate come from?

  Depending on what type of slate you choose, much of it comes from areas around the U.S. Countries like Brazil, China and India also produce high-quality slate, but it’s important to ensure that it has been finished properly so it can be easily applied to your roof. Your New Jersey Roofing Contractor can recommend slate types that are affordable, functional and simple to install.

• What colors are available in slate roofing?

  Slate comes in a number of muted and vibrant colors, depending on your preference and desired curb appeal. Common colors include mottled, solid and variegated greens, purples, reds, grays and blacks. Remember, some slates will change in color as they’re exposed to the elements. If this is a concern, ask your roofer whether the roof you select will remain the same color as it ages. “Unfading slate” will change little after it’s quarried, but “weathering” and “semi-weathering” forms will change appearance with time. Color changes, however, will not impact the longevity of your roof.

• How thick is roofing slate?

  Generally speaking, standard slate roofs range from 1/4-inch to 5/16-inch in thickness. However, more expensive slates are available in 3/8-inch to 1-inch or more. Ask the highly qualified LGC roofing team about the thickness that is best for your application and budget.

• How much will my slate roof cost?

  Slate roof installation varies broadly in cost. Depending on slate thickness, weight and ease of installation, your roof may cost anywhere from $9/square foot to $40/square foot. Call LGC to learn more about slate roofing options and obtain a slate installation cost estimate for your home or business.

• Why should I install a slate roof?

  Slate roofing comes with a number of features and benefits that are attractive to roofers and building owners. First, slate is one of the most leak-proof and fireproof roofing materials on the market. And, since slate roofs come with warranties of up to 50 years, home and business owners benefit from long-term reliability that asphalt shingles simply can’t provide.

  In addition to their attractive, aesthetic look, slate roofs are also environmentally friendly. There are no petrochemical products involved in preparing slate pieces, so slate can be safely returned to the land when it’s no longer useful. This also reduces the waste stream by reducing landfill debris.

If you’re considering slate products for your home or business roof, call the professionals at LGC Roofing. We specialize in slate, metal and shingle roof installation and repair, and our owner is available on-site to ensure the quality of every job. Call us at 609-712-8157 today to schedule a no-cost consultation or inquire about financing.

How to Choose Roof Shingles for Your NJ Home

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Need a roofer? Don’t hesitate to contact us for a free estimate on your roofing project. We’ll be happy to assist you!

Asphalt shingles are an affordable, flexible way to protect your home and they come in a wide range of prices, sizes and colors.

While replacing your roof is a significant investment, think of it as an opportunity to improve the value of your home and the look of its exterior.

To get the most for your money, make sure that you consider life span, durability, weather resistance and quality when you select your new roof shingles.

3 Tips on Roof Shingle Selection

You’ll probably be living with your roof for years to come, so consider the following tips before finalizing a shingle decision.

1. COLOR: Choosing an asphalt shingle that suits your home can be overwhelming, since there are thousands of options on the market. Before picking shingles, check to see whether your homeowner’s association or community organization has regulations about allowable color schemes. To narrow your options further, look for roof shingles that complement your siding or brick. Remember, light roofing colors typically make a structure seem larger and more contemporary, while darker colors can make a building feel cozier and more traditional. Your roof shingles help tie your home’s exterior look together, so talk with your New Jersey roofing professional about the best color options for the look you’re trying to achieve.
2. STYLE: Shingles come in a variety of styles, depending on your budget and taste. Large format shingles cover more area in less time, but they don’t add dimension to your home’s roof. If you’re looking for a more depthful, custom look, consider laminated or “architectural” shingles which come with tabbed layers for added dimension. Strip roof shingles can also provide texture, since they can be layered to add depth to your roof’s surface.
3. QUALITY and DURABILITY: Life span, sturdiness and weather resistance are all important considerations when you’re replacing a shingle roof. Ask LGC Roofing about shingle options that will withstand New Jersey weather extremes without wind damage or algae buildup. In addition, give yourself peace of mind by choosing roofing shingles with a lengthy, comprehensive manufacturer’s warranty since high-quality shingles come with warranties of up to 25 years or more.

Your Local NJ Roofer is Here to Help

Your new roof will grace your home’s exterior for years to come, which is why it’s important to select roof shingles that are low-maintenance, durable and attractive.

If you need a hand making a roofing material decision contact the experts at LGC Roofing for a free, no-obligation roof replacement consultation. Family owned and operated for over two decades, our team is known for our expertise, professionalism and thorough follow-up. Call 609-712-8157 today to learn more.

5 Frequently Asked Questions about Metal Roofs

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Need a roofer? Don’t hesitate to contact us for a free estimate on your roofing project. We’ll be happy to assist you!

Metal roofing is an enduring New Jersey favorite because of its durability and low-maintenance design.

If you’ve considered a metal roof for your home or business, read on for LGC’s helpful answers to five common metal roof questions.

1. Why should I choose a metal roof over other materials?

Metal roofs offer a number of advantages, which include:

• Enduring life expectancy: Metal roofing is a robust option that comes with comprehensive warranties of 20 to 50 years.
• Lightweight design: Relative to other materials, like concrete tile, metal roofing is a lightweight one to three pounds per square foot. Because of that, it’s unlikely that your home will require bolstered structural support to sustain your new metal roof.
• Fire and weather resistance: Metal roofs do not absorb water, and are known for their non-combustible, non-flammable design. Because of this, you may enjoy lower insurance premiums if you invest in a metal roof.
• Energy efficiency: Because metal roofing is very reflective, you’ll experience less energy use and lowered utility bills. Installing a metal roof is an excellent step toward “greening” your home.

2. Are metal roofs eco-friendly?

In addition to the energy savings your metal roof provides, it’s also a sustainable roofing option. Metal roof materials, like copper and steel, contain at least 25-percent recycled material.

Some aluminum roofs are even 100-percent recyclable. In addition, metal roofs have two to three times the lifecycle of an asphalt roof—which reduces the waste stream and saves space in landfills.

3. Is a metal roof hard to install?

Many quality metal roofing materials are available in individual shingles and large sections. While your metal roof installer should be experienced at installing all types of metal roofs, multi-shingle sections are faster and easier to install. In fact, they can probably be installed over your existing roof without factoring in the time and cost of roof demolition. And, due to metal’s weather-proof design low-maintenance design”, it will probably be the last roof you’ll ever install on your home.

That’s why many New Jersey homeowners look at their beautiful metal roof as a money-saving investment. And when you rely on LGC Roofing to help you LGC Roofing will assess your home to ensure that your attic contains proper insulation—which acts as a sound barrier.

In Conclusion

Are you ready to find out more about metal roofing for your New Jersey home? Call
NJ’s roofing experts to schedule a free, no-obligation estimate or to inquire about cost-effective roofing options that will save you money in the long term.

Standing Seam Metal Roofing is Your Best Roofing Choice

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Need a roofer? Don’t hesitate to contact us for a free estimate on your roofing project. We’ll be happy to assist you!

According to the American Iron and Steel Institute, standing seam metal roofing is one of the most exciting roofing technology breakthroughs of the last two decades.

The AISI also reports that metal roofing has been used on more than 50% of low-rise warehouses and commercial facilities over the last five years. Why?

Standing seam metal roofs offer many benefits from durability to energy efficiency. While the initial installation cost may seem high, standing-seam metal roof is the least costly roof option over the life of the roof because it is virtually maintenance-free and can last 30 years or more.

Additionally, recent improvements in metal roofing technologies have lead to the development of many stylish options and even tax-credit opportunities providing customers with further incentive to choose standing seam for their commercial or residential roofing project.

Hence standing seam metal roofing has become one of the most popular roofing option available on the market today, certainly among commercial but also residential customers.

The Many Benefits of Standing Seam Metal Roofing

1. Lightweight design: Standing seam metal roofing weighs a fraction of other roofing materials (typically 1.5 to 2 lbs. per square foot), and since it doesn’t add significant weight to your structure, it can often be installed over existing roofing materials.
2. Durability: Though they are lightweight, standing seam roofs handle thermal shock and severe weather conditions better than many other roofing materials. This is due to both the metal construction and the clip assembly system holding the roof together. The clips allow subtle shifting, which (a) prevents extreme wear and tear and, (b) allows flexibility during high winds and foundation settling.
3. Low maintenance: While flat roofs and composite shingles often require regular maintenance to ensure problem-free performance, standing seam metal roofs require little work or expense for 20+ years. Most also come with excellent warranties.
4. Easy, affordable installation: If your New Jersey standing seam metal roof can be installed over the top of your existing roofing material, it saves money otherwise spent on shingle removal and structural prep.
5. Weather resistance: While there are a number of seams in this type of metal roof, the design is still highly resistant to wind and moisture. After panels are joined, sealants are applied at the joints and seams. To further prevent leaking, reputable roofers use field seaming machines to ensure a complete seal.
6. Energy efficiency: Like other types of metal roofs, standing seam styles typically save home and business owners money on HVAC bills. In addition, some homeowners opt to apply reflective paint to their roof to further improve energy efficiency. As a bonus, remember that you can also receive tax credits for installing an energy efficient roof
7. Easy integration with solar panels: Standing seam metal roofing is the best roofing option for solar panel installation. It easily integrates with thin film photovoltaic (PV) laminates, the easiest and least expensive solar panel solution available on the market today.

When it’s time to replace your existing roof or add a standing seam metal roof to your new residential or commercial structure, call LGC Roofing, New Jersey roofing professionals, to obtain a competitive estimate. We’ll inspect your roof to determine whether a metal roof would require removal of existing materials – and we’ll always make sound, cost-effective suggestions about repairs. Call (609) 712-8157 today to schedule a no-hassle, no-obligation consultation with our expert roofers.

Tackle Your Flat, Leaky New Jersey Roof with EPDM

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Need a roofer? Don’t hesitate to contact us for a free estimate on your roofing project. We’ll be happy to assist you!

Low-pitched and flat roofs are notorious for developing leaks. While you could continually apply tar to your flat roof every few years, it’s a time consuming process that offers no guarantee of leak-free living. Instead, consider installing a EPDM roof—or rubberized roof.

Why Does My Flat Roof Leak?

First of all, asphalt shingles were not designed for flat roofs. Since they’re not installed at an angle, gravity cannot work to ensure that moisture runs off of your home. Instead, rain and snow pool on your roof, and wind and ice dams cause moisture to seep between flat shingles. Since it’s costly and undesirable to change your roof’s configuration, try changing your roofing material, instead.

What is EPDM?

If you’re unfamiliar with it, EPDM - or ethylene propylene diene Monomer—is a single-ply, synthetic rubber compound that’s becoming a popular option for residential and commercial roofs. Especially cost-effective for flat roof structures, the advantages of EPDM include:

• Exceptional resistance to ultraviolet rays, oxidation and thermal exposure
• Exceptional resistance to hail, high winds, snow and ice
• Superior durability and life expectancy
• Decreased maintenance and repair costs
• Affordable design and fast, one-coat application
• Impressive flexibility and chemical resistance
• Low fumes and easy install
• Comprehensive, 10-year warranties

Used for decades to fabricate radiator hoses, roof leak repair kits, tires and molded rubber products, EPDM rubber roofing can handle a range of temperatures without cracking, melting or incurring damage of any kind—which makes it ideal for New Jersey homeowners dealing with seasonal weather extremes. Best of all, after removing your home’s shingles – EPDM can be applied over a variety of roofing surfaces, including metal, fiberglass, wood and rubber.

LGC Roofing installs EPDM

Tired of leaks? Call LGC Roofing, leading New Jersey roofing professionals, for an EPDM estimate for your flat roof. We’ll inspect your existing roof, make repair recommendations and discuss your roofing replacement options – including the potential benefit of a new rubber roof. Contact us today to schedule a fast, friendly appointment with our expert roofing installers.

Metal Roofing & PV Solar Panels – Easy, Green, Affordable

If you’ve thought about adding energy-saving, eco-friendly solar panels to your metal roof, consider the advantages of thin film photovoltaic (PV) laminates. This new-generation solar option replaces bulky, heavy panels of the past, and does not require drilling into your home’s attic rafters.

Thin-film photovoltaic (PV) laminates can be bonded directly onto metal roofing panels. Unlike crystalline PV material, there’s no need for obtrusive racks and heavy, expensive glass. Instead, unbreakable thin-film PV is produced using amorphous silicon, encapsulated in Teflon and other polymers.

These photovoltaic laminates can be attached to standing seam metal roofing panels using a peel and stick method, eliminating your chances of expensive roof leaks due to invasive hardware installation.

Benefits of PV Laminate Panels

PV laminate panels are embedded with wired cells that absorb solar rays, saving you money while making your home more energy efficient.

Other solar laminate advantages include:

• Attractive, bulk-free look that blends with your metal roof
• Lightweight, simplistic design
• Extreme durability and dependability, with little maintenance required
• Low-cost installation
• Advanced protection of your home’s structure
• Leak-proof when installed by a professional
• Easily expandable
• Potential cash savings from tax rebates and energy credits

Why Standing Seam Metal Roofing?

Combining solar roofing panels with standing seam roofing panels offers the answer to the question of permanency of solar roofing systems. The secret to a long lasting solar roofing system lies in the very roof that’s underneath the solar roofing panels. The problem of the past with solar roofing was that asphalt shingle roofs that had solar roofing panels installed on them would often times fail prematurely due to its age or the fact that solar panels required roof penetrations that eventually could cause a roof leak.

Standing seam metal roof is made with metal, which is a long lasting and environmentally safe green building material that keeps your roof cooler in a summer, helps to prevent ice dam problems in the winter, and is fully recyclable at the end of its service life. Thus, a metal roof is essentially a long lasting and energy efficientt roof that is good for the building owner and the environment.

Also most metal roofs come with around 35 years warranty and that’s precisely why metal roofing is the best choice when it comes to PV laminates installation. After all, you don’t want to incur the cost of removing the panels and then putting them back on, as you tend to costly roof leak repairs.

Hire a Professional Roofer!

While PV panels are fairly easy to install over your existing metal roof and can last up to 30 years or more, it’s important to enlist the services of a qualified New Jersey roofer to install the laminates and ensure proper connection of your inverter, cables and switches.

Remember, also, that high-quality solar panels are LEED certified, making it easy and budget-friendly to increase your home’s renewable power. Call LGC Roofing today to schedule your solar consultation, obtain PV laminate pricing or discuss other green roofing options with our company’s roofing experts.

Metal Roofing – Common Problems and Repair Solutions

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Need a roofer? Don’t hesitate to contact us for a free estimate on your roofing project. We’ll be happy to assist you!

Metal Roofing Benefits

Metal roofing is a favorite of New Jersey homeowners due to its many practical benefits, which include:

• Energy savings – Metal roofs are high in heat reflectivity, which helps with utility bills and improves the general energy efficiency of your house.
• Safety - Metal roofs are highly fire retardant, making them a safe option for any home but especially any structures in densely wooded areas.
• Durability - Metal roofing is an excellent choice for New Jersey homes, due to its ability to withstand heat, snow, ice, wind and storms.

Metal Roofing – Common Problems

While metal roofing has many advantages, it may require repairs over time. Two common problems include loose seams and rust/corrosion buildup.

Loose Seams

As your NJ metal roof expands and shrinks with weather extremes, screws become loose, and seams may separate. If this issue is not quickly addressed, your roof’s underlying structure could be damaged by condensation and water buildup around stacks. In order to prevent damage due to seam leaks, remember to inspect your home’s roof at least twice a year—and after severe storms. Watch for signs of loose hardware and obvious seam separation.

Rust/Corrosion Buildup

If your home’s metal roof is not sealed with a non-corrosive agent, it could fall prey to rust after being exposed to regular moisture. Snow, rainfall, sleet and pooling water can cause severe, corrosive damage when left unmanaged. Instead of leaving your roof’s integrity to chance, consider having it sealed with a waterproof coating or retrofitted with a durable roofing shield to prevent weather and condensation damage. Your qualified NJ roofer can recommend the most efficient, budget-friendly way of rust-proofing your metal roof.

With proper care and maintenance, your metal roof can last for a century or more, but it’s important to know that you may have to deal with occasional leaks, loose laps or rust problems.

If you notice an interior/exterior leak or rust spots—or require a metal roof repair, remember to call LGCRoofing, your leading NJ roofing expert. Our technicians will provide a thorough roof inspection, recommending cost-effective maintenance techniques that will save you money in the long run—and extend the life of your beautiful metal roof.

5 Tips on How to Choose Slate Tile Roofing

If you caught our last blog about the ins-and-outs of slate roofing, you probably know that slate is a high-end material option that enhances a variety of architectural styles. And while all slate options are fireproof, water repellent and especially durable, there are several other things to consider before settling on a specific tile type.

How to Choose Slate Tile

Slate roofing has been used for over 150 years because homeowners realize that it’s low-maintenance, long-lasting and naturally beautiful. But what type of slate is best for your home? The following questions can help you make an educated decision about your new roof.

• Will my home bear the weight of a slate tile roof? If you’re not sure, it’s best to have a roofing professional assess your home’s structural integrity before you confirm your plans to use slate.
• What slate color will blend with my home’s paint? Since slate comes in naturally occurring colors, the most common pigments are black, gray, tan, red, green and eggplant Color varies, depending on the mineral composition of the tiles.
• What’s the best warranty I can get for my money? Since slate tiles are quite sturdy, warranties range from 50- to 100-years. That’s why slate roofs are an excellent investment for homeowners who aren’t planning on a move.
• What if I can’t afford a slate roof? While it’s one of the world’s most durable roofing materials, slate is costly to purchase and install. If slate tile doesn’t fit your budget, there are a variety of synthetic slate options. Ask an LGC Roofing professional about affordable alternatives to natural stone.
• Am I looking for an eco-friendly roofing material? When you select a slate roof guaranteed to last 100+ years, you’re reducing the waste stream and keeping your roofing materials out of the landfills for a century or more. That’s good news for Green homeowners.

Call LGC Roofing at 609-712-8157 or fill out our contact form to schedule a slate roofing estimate and a home structure assessment today. This no-obligation appointment is an excellent opportunity to explore this timeless roofing solution or ask questions about stone colors, tile designs and installment costs.

Selecting a Metal Roof – 5 Buyer Tips

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:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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).
5. 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.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Metal Roofing

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.