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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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Spanish Clay Tile Roofing in Commercial Applications

Lukasz Sobczuk — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 15:04:11 +0000

Clay tile roofing is becoming increasingly popular with homeowners who are drawn to its beauty and long life, but what about its applicability to commercial and industrial properties?

Clues about potential uses in non-residential buildings can be found by examining the material’s properties, benefits and limitations.

Clay tile is a fairly heavy but extremely durable material with an expected lifespan of about 50 years, depending on climate. It is a relatively low-maintenance roofing material which offers excellent fire resistance and naturally repels insects.

Clay tile is also noted for its aesthetic appeal, since it adds a touch of old-world flair. It is an excellent complement to buildings with Mediterranean-style architectural features—like archways, open-air terraces and balconies. (Note: Tile can be brittle, though, and it is not recommended that facility owners or contractors walk on it in order to perform repairs or routine maintenance.)

Spanish Clay Tile Roofing in Commercial Applications

Given its high-performance qualities, Spanish clay tile roofing in NJ commercial and industrial buildings is a good choice for a range of situations. These include:

Facilities where enhanced fire, corrosion and pest protection are necessary, whether to protect business interests or keep insurance premiums low.
Small businesses requiring exceptional curb appeal and aesthetic draw.
Commercial applications in which property cost-control is desirable. While Spanish clay tile costs more than other standard roofing materials, such as shingle roofing, it lasts longer and requires less maintenance. This makes it a worthwhile investment for many business owners.

Before you commit to tile as a commercial roofing material, make sure the structure can handle the weight of this heavy material. If the building can bear the weight without requiring reinforcement, Spanish clay tile is a wise roofing choice, given its ease of maintenance, long life and superior fire- and insect-retardant capabilities.

At LGC Roofing, we offer expert installation of new clay tile roofs for both residential and commercial buildings, as well as Spanish clay tile restoration services for customers throughout New Jersey.
With hundreds of satisfied clients, we can confidently say that we are one of the leading providers of professional roofing installation and repair services in New Jersey. For a no-obligation quote for your residential or commercial roofing project, please contact our customer service representatives at (609) 712-8157 or request information online.

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Fall is the Best Time to Replace a Leaky Roof

Lukasz Sobczuk — Tue, 22 Nov 2011 14:32:17 +0000

New roofing is best installed in the fall, since New Jersey winters are particularly hard on roofing materials. Before freezing rain, snow and gusty winds set in, discuss your roof replacement with a professional NJ roofing contractor.

If you’ve already seen evidence of roof leaks in need of repairs, you should act especially quickly. As moisture continues to permeate cracks or damaged materials, it seeps into the wood decking underneath. Replacing this underlayment is costly, and is best avoided by planning your roofing replacement during dry weather.

Fall is the Best Time to Replace a Leaky Roof

There are a number of other benefits to fall roof replacement:

Assessing summer roof damage: Your NJ roof tolerated scorching temperatures, hail and wind storms this summer, so it may not be ready for winter temps. Fall is a good time to evaluate any summer damage that may have occurred—so you can deal with repairs or replacement before the winter elements make things worse.
Installing shingles during ideal temperatures: Now that oppressive heat is no longer an issue, it is the perfect time to install new roofing materials. It’s still warm enough for roofing materials to settle and seal—so they’ll be ready to ward off the chill and the snow.
Protecting attic insulation: For your attic insulation to do its job this winter, it is important to maintain its integrity. Roof leaks cause insulation breakdown and mold buildup, which could hamper your attic from trapping valuable winter heating. Replace your roof before insulation is damaged—so you aren’t forced to replace insulation materials along with your roof!

Is Your Roof Ready For Winter?

Don’t risk property damage or jeopardize your home’s ability to endure the winter. To learn more about industry-best roofing material options, or to inquire about a roof repair or replacement, contact the LGC Roofing team today.

Serving residential and commercial clients with NJ roofing replacement, we offer unmatched service and high-performance roofing solutions for all facility types.

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5 Metal Roofing Installation Mistakes Your Roofer Must Avoid

Lukasz Sobczuk — Tue, 23 Aug 2011 15:20:22 +0000

There is no denying that metal roofing has become a popular option home and business owners opt for these days.

Durability, energy efficiency and fire resistance are just a few of the reasons that more and more homeowners are choosing metal roofing for their homes and businesses.

Although metal roofs can outlast all other kinds of roofing materials, the smallest mistake during installation will result in frustration and costly repairs. That’s why it’s crucial to hire an experienced New Jersey roofing contractor who is attentive to critical installation details.

5 Metal Roofing Installation Mistakes Your Roofer Must Avoid

Save yourself time and money by making sure your NJ roofer avoids these five mistakes:

Improper flashing: Flashing is a transitional material to connect the metal roof to “non-roof” items such as skylights, chimneys and vents. Flashing seams should be properly sealed to allow water to flow on top of the roofing material and prevent moisture from creeping into crevices or under the metal roofing.
Wrong underlayment or vapor barrier material: Underlayment is considered the second line of defense against seepage if roofing material or flashing is compromised. To protect the underside of metal roofing panels, your roofing contractor should use underlayment with a smooth, non-granulated surface.
Damaged roof structure: The installer must check for dry rot and other signs of water damage on the roof deck before the metal roofing installation. Metal expands and contracts. Without a solid base and proper installation, metal roofing will break loose or create gaps for moisture to seep in.
Uninsured roof: Metal roof panels can easily be installed over existing shingles. However, some insurance companies will not accept this method of installation, so check with your insurer before choosing this option. Also, solicit the help of a structural engineer or professional roof consultant to determine whether your building or home can handle the extra weight.
Voiding the warranty: Be sure you and your NJ roofing contractor read the manufacturer’s instructions and install accordingly. Improper installation may void the warranty—which could cost you thousands in repair or replacement costs if something goes wrong.

Hire Professional Metal Roofing Contractors, Not a Rookie

If you’re considering steel, aluminum or copper as a long-term, sustainable investment for your home or business, ask for the skilled professionals at LGC Roofing—the trusted name in roofing for more than 20 years. Our premium metal roofing products come with a 35-year warranty and include a palette of 16 colors. Call (609) 712-8157 today for a free metal roofing installation estimate.

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Pros and Cons of Popular Commercial Roofing Materials

Lukasz Sobczuk — Tue, 09 Aug 2011 15:14:37 +0000

In many cases, a commercial roof requires considerations that do not apply to residential roofing projects.

The majority of industrial buildings have roofs without the steep slopes found on many homes, and industrial roofs also require additional safety considerations.

While composition shingles, wooden shakes and clay-based tiles are often used for residential roofing projects, commercial roofers favor more durable materials that are uniquely suited to buildings with slight roof slopes or no slopes at all.

These include:

metal roofing
modified bitumen,
slate,
concrete tile and
flat asphalt.

Pros and Cons of Popular Commercial Roofing Materials

Metal Roofing

Metal roofing is frequently used in NJ commercial roofing projects because it is naturally fire-resistant, very durable, recyclable and environmentally friendly—in addition to requiring relatively little maintenance. However, metal commercial roofs are expensive, prone to weather and wind damage, and can become dented and scratched if they’re not built from high-quality metal products.

Modified bitumen

Modified bitumen is a cost-effective alternative for industrial and commercial buildings. An asphalt-based compound, modified bitumen must be given multiple coatings to ensure that water does not leak through. It does, however, offer excellent uplift resistance when properly installed and can be treated to offer a high level of inflammability.

Slate roofing

Slate roofing products do come at a considerable up-front price, though because they have extremely long lives, they are often considered one of the most affordable options over the long run. A typical slate roof has an expected lifespan of 50 to 100 years, is both fireproof and waterproof, and inhibits the growth of moss and algae. Slate is also practically impervious to hail and wind damage, though it does have some drawbacks beyond its initial cost. It is heavy, and can break under the strain of heavy weight.

Concrete tile

Concrete tile lasts a long time, doesn’t require much in the way of maintenance, is attractive and durable, and is naturally rot-and insect-resistant. However, like most other commercial roofing materials with long lifespans, it tends to be expensive to install.

Flat asphalt

Flat asphalt commercial roofs can be a good choice with industrial buildings that have well-designed water drainage systems. While they offer a good balance of price and durability, large flat asphalt roofs can contribute to smog problems in larger cities and are not considered environmentally friendly.

Which Roofing Material is Best For You?

If you need the advice from an experience and reliable NJ commercial roofing contractor to determine which roofing material is best for your facility, call on the experts at LGC Roofing. We’ll help you understand the pros and cons of various commercial roof materials, and provide you with no-obligation quotes for our professional and affordable commercial roof repair or replacement services.

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Slate Roofing Repair: Cost-Effective Alternatives to Replacement

Lukasz Sobczuk — Tue, 02 Aug 2011 15:11:43 +0000

Dubbed “100 year roofs” for their durability, slate roofs actually have service lives of 60 to 200 years. Chosen for their aesthetically pleasing patterns and details, among other benefits, slate roofs have been around for centuries and are prominently found on homes, churches, institutions and government buildings.

Because of the unique craftsmanship of slate roofs on New Jersey buildings and residences, many owners choose to repair or restore these roofs, rather than replace them, to preserve their beauty and historical value.

There are three main reasons why slate roofing requires repair:

Cracked, broken, misaligned or missing slates
Deteriorated metal flashing
Improper workmanship during previous repairs

Given the high cost of slate materials, homeowners should only hire a certified, experienced NJ roofing contractor to ensure that slate roof restoration is done right.

Regular maintenance and annual inspections can also extend the life of your roof.

Slate Roofing Repair: Cost-Effective Alternatives to Replacement

If you’re wondering whether to repair or replace, ask yourself:

When was the roof installed? Find records of the roof’s age and type. Not all slates are the same. Where the rocks were quarried may help to determine the lifespan of the slate.
Are the slates misaligned or sliding out of position? If yes, the metal fasteners used to hold the slates in place may have corroded and may need to be replaced.
Are there active leaks? Most roof leaks occur because of problems with gutters, valleys and flashings. Even the smallest hole can allow a large amount of water to accumulate. These leaks can often be fixed while salvaging the slates.
How many slates are damaged or missing? If 20- to 30-percent of the slates on the roof are damaged, it would less expensive for a slate roof replacement than a repair.
Are the slates delaminating (flaking or crumbling), or is there powder on the underside? If so, your roof needs to be replaced.

Need Slate Repairs? Hire Professional Roofing Contractors

Working with slate roofing requires advanced skills, so don’t trust just anybody to restore or replace your slate roof. Trust the knowledge and expertise of LGC Roofing: a family-owned company that has been installing and repairing slate roofs for over 20 years.

Our work is guaranteed and our slate roofing expertise is unrivaled. Call us today for a free slate roofing restoration estimate, and learn how we can help you preserve your investment!

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Latest Trends in Residential & Commercial Roofing

Lukasz Sobczuk — Tue, 14 Jun 2011 14:53:44 +0000

Time for a new roof? Before committing to one of the many materials on the market, consider the latest trends in both residential & commercial roofing. There are many excellent roofing choices available to meet your needs, so take time to learn more about which roofing materials would provide the protection you want with prices that fit your budget.

Latest Trends in Residential & Commercial Roofing

Composition Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are the most popular choice for residential roofing on the market. Because of their affordability, variety, and durability, asphalt shingles offer homeowners the opportunity to get attractive results without spending the money on other more expensive options. Asphalt shingles come in a number of styles, including basic three-tab, dimensional/architectural, interlocking, and no cut out shingles.

Additionally, many can be enhance to give the visual appearance of more luxurious materials like cedar or slate. Asphalt shingles are very durable, and many brands now offer 20 to 25 year warranties. If damages do occur, asphalt is easily installed, and shingle repairs aren’t as costly as with other materials.

Metal Roofing

The second most popular choice for roofing is metal roofing. In the past few years, metal roofing has garnered favor because it is lightweight, durable, and energy efficient. An additional appeal is that this material is recyclable, making it more eco-friendly than conventional asphalt shingles.

The initial costs of installation are higher than asphalt, but metal roofing has been known to help cut home energy costs by up to 40% by reducing energy consumption and smog, which aids in the prevention of urban heat islands. Metal roofs also raise the home’s resale value, and in some instances even reduce home owner insurance premiums.

Thermoplastic Polyolefin

Thermoplastic polyolefin, or TPO, is a single-ply material made of ethylene propylene rubber, a synthetic rubber growing in popularity among commercial and industrial roofers. Like metal, TPO is highly reflective and energy efficient, making it an ideal choice for replacing outdated materials.

The modern synthetic contents make TPO more economic than its predecessors, combining the strength of EDPM rubbers with hot-air weldable seams. Another advantage of TPO roofing is that it is more resistant to mold than conventional roofing materials.

Ask Your Roofer What’s Best for You!

With so many options available on the market, it’s best to first determine which features are most important to you. Some of the materials may have a higher initial cost than others, but look into long-term maintenance costs and energy savings.

If you have questions about which material would best suit your needs and budgets talk with one of our expert roofing professionals. At LGC Roofing, we’re honored to have served New Jersey businesses and residents for 25 years. We’re NJ’s choice for high-quality commercial roofing, and we’re licensed, bonded and ready to provide you with superior roofing materials and installation procedures. We also handle all types of residential roofing projects in NJ, from roof installation & replacement to various roofing repairs.

Call 609-712-8157 today to schedule your free roofing estimate or learn more about our reputable, family-owned business.

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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.

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Proper Installation & Maintenance Key to Healthy Gutter Systems

Lukasz Sobczuk — Tue, 03 May 2011 15:37:34 +0000

Installing and maintaining gutters can be a challenge, but it’s necessary if you want them to function as they should.

Step #1 – Proper Gutter Installation

Proper maintenance begins when you install the gutters.

When selecting residential rain gutters, make sure the parts you purchase fit tightly against your roof, so water doesn’t leak down the sides. Do-it-yourself gutter pieces are typically made of plastic, vinyl or metal, and snap easily together. A tight seal between these gutter parts prevents the damage caused by leaking.

In addition, it’s a wise idea to purchase extra pieces when you’re assembling the gutter; they can be used as replacement parts when old pieces wear out.

As you install, ensure that the gutters run slightly downhill to prevent water pooling and resulting damage. Proper pitching is very important in gutter longevity.

Step #2 – Gutter Maintenance and Repair

Once gutters are installed, check them regularly for damage and repair.

Examine your NJ home’s gutters frequently after it rains, looking for areas where the water pools. This pooling signals a potential leak in the drainage system, and standing water can damage the metal parts of your gutter system or cause a leak between the seals.

In addition, plan for a spring gutter cleaning and a fall gutter cleaning every year: clearing out the leaves and other debris before they build up and clog downspouts. Screens and other devices make this easier, but you should still plan for a fall & spring gutter inspection to ensure that vinyl and metal gutters are safely funneling water away from your home’s structure.

Safety First!

Always practice care when installing gutters.

Don’t check them immediately after a rain when surfaces are slick.
Wear shoes with good traction and use a ladder that is sturdy and in good condition.
If you’re climbing a ladder or working on a roof, make sure someone else is home and within shouting distance. In case of an accident, they can call for help or come to your aid.

Proper Installation & Maintenance Key to Healthy Gutter Systems

Prefer to leave gutter installation and repair to the professionals? Contact LGC Roofing! We’re the best NJ roofing contractor in the state: family owned and operated for over twenty years.

Our work stands up to the harshest weather conditions, and we offer prompt roofing repair services for when emergencies happen. Our fully insured and licensed staff is standing by to assist you, so call us today, at (609) 712-8157, or request a free estimate on your spring gutter repair or gutter cleaning services.