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

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

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

Cost

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

Looks

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

Installation

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

Maintenance

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

Sustainability

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

Call Today!

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

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

Incoming search terms:

• slate vs composite roof
• commercial composite slate shingles
• slate shingles made from composite material
• slate roof options
• slate roof nj price
• slate look roof material

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

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

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Slate Roofing Installation

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

FAQ #2: How much does slate roofing cost?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Incoming search terms:

• slate roof repair cost
• slate roof cost per square foot
• how much per square foot of roofing in nj
• cost of reclaimed slate
• how much to re slates the roof
• slate roof costs per square foot

Many homeowners opt to install wood shake roofs on their homes because of the material’s natural look and unique personality. And even if a homeowner chooses the same type of shake shingle as their neighbor, the roofs will look different from one another—because of the material’s innate variation in color, pattern, wood cut and thickness.

It’s important to remember, though, that wood shakes are not easy to install. That’s why it’s important to select a skilled New Jersey roofing contractor if you decide on this roof style for your residence or business.

Cost of Wood Shake Roofs

While wood shake roofs are undeniably beautiful, that beauty comes with a cost. You might have to pay three to five times as much for cedar shake roofing as you would for composite or asphalt shingles—in addition to paying a premium for installation.

Cedar shake roofing lasts longer than asphalt roofing, though, with a lifespan of five to 10 more years than standard shingles. When considering the lasting value of wood shakes, you may determine that the material’s longevity is worth the extra cost.

Ask the experts at LGC Roofing about the most economical, attractive wood shake options for your home.

Energy and Environmental Advantages of Wood Shake Roofs

According to the Cedar Shake and Shingle Bureau, wood shingles are an environmentally sound choice because they’re made from a natural, renewable resource. In addition, cedar shakes are biodegradable—so they won’t sit in landfills for decades (or even centuries) to come, unlike some of their synthetic counterparts.

Depending upon which wood shakes you select, many of them are completely recyclable and take little energy to manufacture in the first place.

Home and business owners with shake roofs also find that the material insulates their attic more efficiently than other roofing materials – while allowing the house to “breathe” and exchange toxins for fresh air.

Maintenance of Wood Shake Roofing

Cedar roofs are undoubtedly a beautiful addition to many structures, but home and business owners should be aware that they require more maintenance than composite shingles.

For example, you may encounter an insect infestation or a case of mold and mildew on your wood shake roof and have to spend money, time and frustration replacing old shakes. And, since previously installed shake shingles begin to fade with weather and time, the new ones will never properly match the older shakes on your roof.

Choosing Your Wood Shake New Jersey Roof

When you’ve finalized your decision to use wood shake shingle roofing on your NJ home, make sure you select a quality product. The best shakes are made from the center of huge, aged cedar trees—and are manufactured by companies who insist upon quality in their shake mills.

If you’re unsure about how to make your decision, contact LGC Roofing for a free woodshake roofing estimate and a list of high-quality cedar shake options. Call 609-712-8157 today to discuss your roofing needs with one of our experienced specialists—or to request a written estimate for your cedar roof repair or replacement project.

Incoming search terms:

• wood shake roof lifespan
• wood shake roofing
• shake roof pros and cons
• shake style roof
• wood roofing shakes
• Shake Shingles

If you caught our last blog about fall roof inspection, you know that semi-annual roof checkups can prevent costly damage down the road.

In addition to regular exterior inspections, however, there are several other ways to safeguard against leaks this winter season.

Roof leaks can cause severe damage to your home, inside and out. As water pools beneath shingles or other materials, it may cause warping and breakdown of your roof’s underlayment.

In addition, perpetual seeping into the attic or behind drywall can lead to unhealthy mold growth. Finally, if your leak becomes an interior problem, you may need to repair or replace insulation, drywall, floor coverings or furniture.

To prevent your home from water infiltration this winter, keep the following tips in mind.

Attic inspection

In addition to inspecting your roof’s exterior, it’s a good idea to inspect your attic 1 to 2 times a year—and especially before winter sets in. If you get the opportunity to inspect it on a rainy fall day, you’ll be able to see leaky areas firsthand. If it’s dry outside when you inspect, look for other telltale signs of leaks:

• mold or mildew around the vents, joints and seams,
• warped wood, or
• stained insulation

If you’ve had recent rain, you may even see water dripping from insulation, wood or vent areas.

Once you’ve found a potential leak, call your New Jersey roofing repair professional to schedule a leak repair. The specialists at LGC will also inspect your attic for less visible areas of moisture damage, and can recommend additional ways to ward off leaks.

Ice dam prevention

It won’t be long before blowing snow sets in, and it’s one of the main causes of roof leaks. Snow and cold weather lead to ice dams, which build up on your roof and prevent proper runoff drainage.

While shingle roofs are meant to be basically water resistant, they’re no match for water trapped behind ice dams for lengthy periods. This water begins to slowly saturate your shingles and roof structure, eventually leading to leaks.

To avoid ice dams before they happen, make sure your attic is adequately ventilated. Attic temperatures should be the same as the exterior temperature, and gable, soffit and roof ridge vents help to maintain this temperature consistency.

In addition, properly insulating between the rafters can help to prevent ice damming. If you believe your roof needs additional venting or an insulation checkup, contact LGC Roofing to schedule a free consultation.

Limit roof traffic

As the holidays approach, you may be climbing on or around your roof to hang lighting or install holiday décor. However, regular foot traffic can lead to a leak, since shingles may split and flashing may crack under pressure.

If you must be on the roof for inspections or holiday light hanging, avoid stepping on shingles that appear to be compromised—whether warped, curling or cracked. Also, try not to step on roof tiles or tile cement—since these materials are also easily damaged under weight.

As we move into fall, remember that a well-maintained roof is less likely to leak, and less likely to require costly repairs. Remove debris—like pine needles and leaves—to encourage proper draining. In addition, maintain your gutters properly and conduct or schedule regular inspections to ensure that water is draining properly, year-round.

For more information about getting the most out of your roofing investment, or to schedule your fall roof repairs contact LGC roofing at 609-712-8257 today.

Incoming search terms:

• 6:12 roof fall prevention
• roof maintenance cold weather
• roofing foll
• warped wood repair roof
• what causes warped roof shingles

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.

Incoming search terms:

• advantages and disadvantages of natural roof ventilation
• color shield roofing with pictures
• slate roof faq
• ESTIMATE davinci slate roof
• how much does 1 inch thick slate cost
• how much does a davinci slate roof cost

As mentioned in our earlier post, Tips for ventilating Your Roof Space, an optimized ventilation system is needed to balance the temperature and moisture levels in your home’s attic space.

3 Reasons Why You Need A Proper Ventilation System

1. your home will be more comfortable,
2. you’ll decrease utility spending, and
3. your roof will last longer, saving you money on roof repair or worse yet, complete replacement.

Who doesn’t like the sound of that?

But how much will a new roof vent cost?

Actually, you’ll find that most roof vents are reasonably priced—especially when you consider the energy-saving return on investment. When you’re ready to address home ventilation, here’s some helpful list of types of vents to help you make a decision.

• Turbine/static/wind-driven roof vents (provide ventilation by spinning naturally with the wind)
• Louver/static roof vents (deflect rain and insects while promoting air flow)
• Soffit roof vents (positioned under eaves)
• Gable roof vents (louvered vents placed on roof peaks)
• Powered roof vent units (thermostat typically included)

Before you spend a bundle on attic ventilation, make sure you’ve consulted with a roofing expert who can help. We will be happy to discuss needed repairs so call us today to schedule a roofing consultation. We will help you figure out how much you’ll save by installing and maintaining an adequate vent system in your house.

With over 20 years of experience, LGC Roofing is your 2010 roofing source for superior customer service, competitive pricing and quality workmanship.

Incoming search terms:

• types of roof vents
• roof vents types
• roof vent types
• roofing vents types
• types of roof ventilation
• types of roofing vents

Are you looking for a roofing material that offers an upscale look for your home or business? Consider the many advantages of natural slate. Used by roofers for generations, slate tile is made of stone and formed into uniform pieces—making it not only sturdy, but naturally beautiful, as well.

While slate roofing tends to be expensive on the front end, it’s an enduring way to enhance the architectural look of any building. And your slate roof can last a century or more—making it a lasting investment that requires little maintenance.

The Undisputed Benefits of Slate Roofing

Slate roofing is an art. Your expert roofing contractor will lay individual tiles on the roof pitch, blending colors and sizes to create a look of distinction. When your roof is complete, it will be naturally water repellent, fireproof and highly resistant to the elements.

Still on the fence? Here are more reasons to choose this exceptional roofing material.

• Slate is impervious to rot and insect damage, and is naturally resistant to algae and moss buildup.
• Naturally occurring slate colors can be mixed, creating attractive—and completely unique—patterns.
• While there are many man-made, high-tech materials on the market, slate is one of the world’s longest-lasting natural roofing choices.
• When installed by a roofing professional, many slate roofs come with a 50- to 100-year warranty.

New Jersey’s Slate Roofing Experts

Ready to explore the world of slate? We invite you to schedule a home or business roofing estimate via a form or by calling 609-712-8157. Slate is heavy, so it’s important to have your home professionally assessed before making a final roofing material selection.

When you schedule a no-obligation FREE consultation with LGC Roofing, we’ll (1) evaluate your home’s structure to determine if it requires additional support for slate installation, and (2) go over color, style and design options. Contact us today and we’ll help you get the roofing you will love!

Incoming search terms:

• slate natural
• options for slate roofing

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.

Incoming search terms:

• Metal Shingles
• metal roofing colors
• houses with metal roofing
• metal roof colors
• steel roofs for homes
• metal roofing shingles

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.

Incoming search terms:

• metal roofing advantages and disadvantages
• metal roof advantages and disadvantages
• advantages and disadvantages of metal roofs
• disadvantages of metal roofs
• metal roof advantages disadvantages
• advantages and disadvantages of metal roofing

While clay tile costs more than composite or shake shingles, many home and business owners are attracted to its timeless look. When evaluating expense, remember that most clay tile roofs are warranted for 50+ years and can last up to 100—making them a sound investment and practical property improvement.

Advantages of Clay Tile Roofs

In addition to their proven longevity, clay tiles are wind, hail and fire resistant, so they’re especially attractive for those living with shifting weather extremes. New Jersey residents will find that clay tile stands up well to the state’s highly variable wet, dry, hot and cold airstreams. Clay tile also creates a thermal barrier, which prevents both interior and exterior energy escape. As an added bonus to utility savings, tile roof owners may qualify for tax deductions and utility rebates.

Green consumers appreciate the natural, biodegradable composition of clay tile. Created from clay and water baked at ultra-high temperatures, the tiles emit no environmental toxins, produce clean water runoff, and can eventually be recycled for use in construction and transportation projects.

No matter what the architectural style of your home or business, clay tile adds a charming touch. Commercial and residential property owners can choose from hundreds of tile colors to complement the hue and style of their home, and the baked-in pigment and weather-proof glaze prevents fading—even over decades of use.

Clay Tile Roof Tips

Clay roofs are heavy. Your qualified roofing specialist should assess your home or business before installing the tile to ensure your structure is sound enough to manage the product’s weight. Remember, also, that proper color blending requires careful tile placement—so multi-colored tile roofs may cost more to install and take longer to complete.

Incoming search terms:

• terracotta roof
• tile roof longevity
• clay shingles
• clay tiles
• tile roof durability
• longevity of tile roofs