NJ Roofing Blog » long-lasting

Introduction to Residential Metal Roofing

Lukasz Sobczuk — Tue, 22 May 2012 15:10:26 +0000

The next time you need a new roof installed, ask your roofing contractor about metal roofing.

Metal roofing carries a wide variety of benefits over conventional roofing materials such as asphalt, slate or wood shingles. Metal roofing is an ideal choice for families that intend to live in their home over the long-term.

Benefits of Metal Roofing

Crafted from top-of-the-line aluminum, steel or copper, metal roofing protects your home more effectively than other materials. A metal roof is resistant to all types of inclement weather and natural disasters, including rain, mildew, fire, wind and even hail. The benefits of choosing a metal roof for your home include:

• Longevity: A metal roof lasts from 20 to an astonishing 50 years.
• Durability: Metal roof sheeting is lightweight, yet durable enough to protect the structure of your home.
• Low maintenance: The minimal pitch of a metal roof reduces the likelihood of leakage.
• Energy savings: Heat conduction reduces heating and cooling costs.
• Aesthetics: Metal roofing is available in a number of attractive color options. An aesthetically pleasing home can increase its market value.

Installation of Your Metal Roof

The installation of metal roofing materials is another benefit to homeowners. Some metal materials may be placed directly on top of existing roofing, saving you time and money. Metal roofing does cost more than some conventional materials, including asphalt, but the investment in the future health of your home pays for itself with its long-lasting protection.

Going Green

Environmentally conscious homeowners can feel good about their choice to go green with their new metal roof. Metal roofing materials are recyclable, reducing your family’s carbon footprint.

Contact LGC Roofing, your leading NJ roofing contractor, to schedule a metal roofing consultation, or to inquire about professional roofing services. We have over 25 years of experience in roofing replacement & repair, gutter installation, siding & windows replacement and more! Call (609) 712-8157 or request your Free Estimate online.

Spanish Clay Tile Roofing Installation 101

Lukasz Sobczuk — Tue, 08 May 2012 14:19:46 +0000

The recent trend toward Mediterranean building styles has fueled a re-emergence of Spanish clay tile roofing. Long-prized for its aesthetic appeal, tile is also a durable and long-lasting roofing material that often carries up to a 50-year warranty. Although the cost of tile roofing may be high initially, there is seldom a need for roof replacement.

Spanish Clay Tile Roofing Installation

Roof tiles are as heavy as they are durable, and therefore, require some extra considerations for successful roofing installation.

Begin with solid construction of the roof deck, making sure that the weight of the tile roof will be supported. If there are low-pitch overhangs, check that there is enough slant for good drainage.
Apply a high quality underlayment. Because tile roofing has such a long life, this is crucial. In northern climates, a rubberized ice and water shield is recommended. Drip edge and bird-stop edging should also be installed for maximum protection.
Use treated 1 x 2 battens to support and affix the rows of tile. Leave gaps to allow drainage. Tiles are overlapped on the battens and secured with either nails, metal clips, or even adhesive. The quality of the securing materials will determine whether tiles stay in place—or loosen with time.
High-quality, correctly installed flashing is essential to a lasting tile roofing installation. Lead flashing is flexible and works well around chimneys and vents. Copper flashing has a long life and is a good alternative. Make sure that flashing fits securely at roof seams, channels, and where roofing and walls meet.
As with any roofing installation, tile roofs will last longer with installation of a gutter system. Check that gutters and downspouts are adequate to handle the flow of water from the roof.
Finally, use a professional tile roof contractor. The most common problems with tile roofing arise from the use of inadequate base materials and slipshod workmanship.

Don’t let the initial cost of a Spanish tile roof discourage you from considering it for your home or commercial building. When installed by the experienced roofing contractors at LGC Roofing, tile roofs are beautiful, functional, and long-lasting. LGC carries and installs Ludowici clay tiles in a variety of styles and colors. Check out the possibilities and get a free estimate. Call 602-712-8157 to schedule an appointment today!

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8 Steps to Roofing Replacement

Lukasz Sobczuk — Tue, 01 May 2012 15:25:18 +0000

When an existing roof has degraded due to weather, age, or substandard materials and workmanship, roofing replacement becomes necessary. Since re-roofing is a major investment, homeowners should keep these 8 important steps in mind when discussing their options with a qualified roofing contractor.

8 Steps to Roofing Replacement

When selecting the type of roofing material best suited for your area, home architectural style and budget, look for top quality materials that you can afford. Damage resulting from inferior materials often goes unseen for years, but can lead to serious structural problems in the home.
Be sure that plans include stripping the old roof down to the decking and inspecting for any repairs that must be made to bolster the integrity of the new roof.
Once repairs have been made, drip edge should be installed to prevent water from backing up under the roofing surface.
Ice and water shield installed over the roof decking will prevent moisture build-up, and is essential to a lasting roofing replacement job.
Next, a quality underlayment should be installed over the entire roofing surface.
Metal flashings and diverters should be placed at critical points such as in channels and near chimneys. These must be well-secured with sealant to eliminate the possibility of water seeping under the edges.
The installation of ridge vents help to ensure continuous attic ventilation while protecting the re-roofing job. In addition, rib caps will finish the look of the new roof and protect the ridge vents.
Finally, the homeowner should make sure that the roofing contractor will, clean-up the job site, leaving landscaping intact and surrounding areas free of nails and other debris.

A little knowledge about the re-roofing process enables homeowners to make the best investment possible. Roofing estimates you receive for your roofing replacement project should address these 8 steps in order to achieve the maximum life for a new shingle, metal or slate roof.

LGC Roofing is an experienced New Jersey contractor, in business for over two decades. If you suspect that your home needs a new roof, give us a call at 609-712-8157. Our experts will provide a free estimate, and will detail the materials and procedures covered by our bid.

With LGC Roofing, you can have confidence in your replacement roof investment—for years to come!

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Metal Roofing Options: Aluminum Roofs

Lukasz Sobczuk — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 15:50:07 +0000

If you are planning to replace your roof in the near future, consider investing in metal roofing. Commonly used for commercial and residential structures, metal roofing options including copper, steel and aluminum.

Advantages of Aluminum Roofing

Aluminum is one of the most popular & affordable metal roofing options in residential & commercial roofing. Home and business owners select it for a variety of reasons:

Visual impact: Metal roofs, including aluminum, are a visually pleasing addition to any home or building. They look as beautiful as tile or slate, and are a cost-effective and attractive alternative. Aluminum roofing panels can be painted for an even more desirable effect, and since aluminum is so lightweight, it can be easily manipulated along difficult roof lines.

Environmentally sound: Aluminum roofs are becoming increasingly popular because they can be made from recycled materials. This makes them a more sustainable choice than other roofing selections. Energy costs are also lower with metal roofs, since aluminum reflects the sun and insulates during the winter. Best of all, aluminum roofing offers protection from New Jersey’s inclement weather. Rain, wind and hail are no match for a metal roof, and snow will shed easily from an aluminum roof.

Long-term money savings: While a metal roof may cost more initially, it saves money over time. Some aluminum can be placed over existing roofing materials, which saves manpower; but it is over the life of the roof that the real savings is enjoyed. Metal roofs last longer than their asphalt counterparts, and require little maintenance. While an asphalt roof might last 20 years, even less if harsh weather is involved, a metal roof can last a lifetime. Aluminum roofs are also non-corrosive and fire retardant, which decreases insurance premiums.

Considering an Aluminum Roof?

If you are looking for a long-term roofing investment requiring little to no maintenance but offering many benefits, aluminum is a excellent choice. This metal roofing option is earth-friendly, and is an attractive addition to any facility.

Call LCG Roofing, your leading NJ roofing contractor, for a no-obligation quote or to determine whether an aluminum roof is right for you. Dial (609) 712-8157 today!

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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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Why a Standing Seam Metal Roof is Worth the Investment

Lukasz Sobczuk — Tue, 04 Oct 2011 14:44:32 +0000

Roof replacement is a daunting task, especially if you’re weighing the pros and cons of different roofing materials.

When it’s time to revive your roof, consider a standing seam metal roofing option. Made from panels that securely interlock, standing seam roofs attach in vertical sections from the rooftop to the eaves.

While the initial cost of your metal roof is generally higher than a shingled version, it’s an investment most home and business owners don’t regret.

Why a Standing Seam Metal Roof is Worth the Investment

Over the last decade, these easy-to-install metal coverings have become increasingly popular—and for very good reason. Consider these benefits:

Low Maintenance: A standing seam metal roof is practically maintenance free, since they don’t corrode, crack or split. They’re also very durable: lasting up to three times longer than an average composite shingle roof and maximizing your investment over the roof’s life. Best of all, standing seam metal roofs increase your structure’s appraisal and resale value.
Weather Protection: Metal roofs withstand rain, hail and wind, and are the strongest option for homes and businesses facing hurricane conditions and extreme NJ weather.
Fire Resistance: A standing seam metal roof is fire retardant and non-combustible, and possesses one of the highest available fire ratings—so your home, business and investment are protected.
Aesthetically Pleasing: Technological advancements in metal roofing have translated into greater consumer choice. Standing seam roofs now come in a variety of color, size and style options, and are an attractive, clean way to accent any building.
Eco-Friendly: Composed of 50 to 100 percent recycled materials, standing seam metal reflects the sun’s heat, lowers cooling requirements and reduces utilities. Because of this, metal roofing is a green option for beautiful homes.

We Specialize in Standing Seam Metal Roofing Installation

Thinking about a metal roof investment? Call the expert NJ roofing contractors to learn more about your options. LGC Roofing is a family-owned and operated business, installing high-quality roofs since 1985.

We handle all types of residential and commercial roofing, and specialize in standing seam roofing installation. Call 609-712-8157 or fill out our contact formto request a FREE price estimate.

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Roofing Repair vs. Replacement: How to Make the Right Call

Lukasz Sobczuk — Tue, 27 Sep 2011 15:19:29 +0000

Your home is likely one of your biggest investments—and your roof is one of the most important ways to protect that investment. If your roof leaks, is showing signs of weather damage, or is looking worse for wear, you may need to replace it.

Roofing Repair vs. Replacement: How to Make the Right Call

Because a new roof is a significant expense, many people are left wondering whether they’d be better off simply repairing it. There are several factors to consider when making this decision:

Age of your current roof: An average roof can last anywhere from 12 to 20 years, depending on materials. If you are having problems after 12 to 14 years, it is probably more cost effective to replace than repair.
Type of damage: Leaking pipe flanges, chimneys, skylights and interior areas (where the wall meets the roof) are all things that can be repaired easily. Other, more extensive repairs may warrant replacement. Ask a qualified roofer to inspect your roof if you’re unsure.
Condition of the shingles: Roofs should be inspected every year after storm season. Deteriorated shingles can be restored, but extensive damage—such as shingle warping, algae or water damage inside the house—may mean it’s time to replace the roof. An expert NJ roofing contractor will be able to inspect the roofing material and assess whether it’s worth repairing.
Extreme weather damage: Any time your roof is subjected to extreme weather such as hurricanes, hail, or severe storms the damage may necessitate replacing the roof. Your homeowner’s insurance may cover this, so consult with your insurance company shortly after the damage occurs.
How long you plan to be in your house: Roof replacement is a long-term investment. If you don’t plan on remaining in your home for long, and repairs do not exceed the cost of replacement, it may make more sense to simply fix the roof—rather than installing a new one.

When you are ready to make a decision about your New Jersey roof, an expert NJ roofing contractor can assist you. To schedule a roof replacement consultation or a repair estimate, contact LGC roofing at 609-712-8157—or fill out our roofing request estimate form today!

We specialize in NJ roof repair and roof replacement, and our work is 100% guaranteed. Our professional, family-owned and operated team will assist you with your decision and ensure your satisfaction, whichever option you choose.

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Residential Metal Roofing: 5 Reasons Behind Its Growing Popularity

Lukasz Sobczuk — Tue, 13 Sep 2011 15:02:04 +0000

Metal roofing is most commonly fashioned from sturdy, treated strips of copper, steel or aluminum, and it is becoming an increasingly popular alternative to traditional asphalt shingles.

While the up-front costs of metal roofing tend to be higher, on average, than you would pay to have shingles installed, the long-term advantages of metal roofing are indisputable. If you’re in need of a roofing upgrade, you owe it to yourself to research and consider a metal option.

Residential Metal Roofing: 5 Reasons Behind Its Growing Popularity

Some of the major reasons for the surge in the popularity of metal roofing include:

Weather resistance. Metal is far more adept at resisting wind, moisture and extensive exposure to sunlight than other roofing materials. It is corrosion-resistant, naturally repels pests and facilitates efficient rainwater drainage.
Long lifespan. Metal roofs last an extremely long time; in many cases, homeowners can avoid replacing their metal roofs for 50 years or more. This extremely long life more than makes up for the higher upfront roofing cost.
Light weight. Weighing on average about half as much as asphalt shingles, the lightness of a residential metal roof reduces strain on your home’s important load-bearing elements, helping you avoid costly foundational and structural problems.
Energy savings. Metal roofs reflect sunlight, and during the summer, they go a long way toward keeping your home cool. Having a metal roof can dramatically lower your air conditioning costs during the intense and humid New Jersey summer.
Curb appeal. Available in a full range of colors, metal roofing greatly enhances the look of your home, and copper roofing is an especially attractive option. It actually changes color over time, adding character and beauty as the years pass. Residential metal roofing can also raise the resale value of your home—while boosting its visual appeal for years to come.

Considering metal roof for your residence?

Give us a call at LGC Roofing, family owned and operated NJ roofing contractor in business since 1985. We handle all types of residential roofing projects specializing in the installation of standing seam metal roofing.

Serving residential and commercial customers throughout New Jersey, our team of skilled and experienced installation technicians can quickly and reliably install the metal roof of your dreams. For pricing inquiries or further information, please contact our metal roofing specialists.

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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.