Roof Replacement Estimate – What You Should Know

Thanks for visiting! We are LGC Roofing, family owned and operated New Jersey roofer. You can keep track of us via our RSS feed, connect with us on Facebook or Twitter.

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

If weather and years have taken their toll on your New Jersey roofing structure, it’s time to invest in a new metal, slate or composite shingle roofing. A wise investment ensures that your new roof will withstand heat, wind and moisture for years to come—so it’s important to establish a budget, determine project pricing and compare several roofing contractors before beginning the project.

After you’ve weighed pros and cons and settled on a roofing material, contact three to four area roofers to request a detailed estimate of service.

How to Find a Reliable Roofer

Hiring the right roofer is crucial to your project’s success so it’s important to do some legwork.
Start by asking your neighbors, coworkers and family members for a company referral. Then conduct your own research, looking up Better Business Bureau ratings, online customer reviews and licensing information.

Before scheduling your estimate appointments, consider creating a document that lists your preferred roofing material, available start date, timeline for completion and any other project expectations.

Roof Replacement Estimate – What You Should Know

In most cases, a roofing replacement estimate will take only 30 to 40 minutes.

Roof pricing varies based upon choice of material, roof pitch/steepness, the total replacement area and whether you opt to remove previous roofing materials yourself. However, all quality roofing estimates should include:

• Project commencement date
• Estimated project completion date
• Detailed description of work, including roofing materials, flashing locations, underlayment type & thickness and size/type of nails and fasteners
• Type of sealant used to weatherproof flashing and nail holes

In addition to these material and installation basics, your roofing estimate should discuss
workmanship guarantees, material guarantees and cleanup expectations. For example, many contractors will clean up your home’s exterior after your roofing project is complete, but leave you in charge of attic spaces and other interior areas. Make sure you know what your contractor’s policy is before hiring him.

If your estimate of cost does not include your roofer’s insurance information, be sure to inquire about it. Reputable roofing companies should supply general liability insurance while on the job, and should provide all employees and site managers with worker’s compensation coverage.

Finally, each estimate should break down pricing in detail. Thorough price lists include:

• Building material costs (roofing material, fasteners, flashing)
• Labor costs, broken down by man hours or listed as a project bid
• Additional expenses, such as sheathing repairs, tear-out of old shingles, etc.

Most roofers require a downpayment of 25 to 50 percent on your roof’s total cost before beginning work, and will collect the remaining amount after the roof is completed and customer satisfaction is achieved.

Let LGC Roofing Provide You With Worry Free Roofing Installation You Deserve!

At LGC Roofing, we’ve been offering quality roofing replacement services to commercial and residential New Jersey customers for over two decades. Our work is always guaranteed, and we’re fully licensed and insured for all types of roof repairs and replacements that you may need.

Call us at (609) 712-8157 today or schedule your no-cost, no-obligation estimate online. We’ll be happy to discuss the benefits of metal, composite and slate roofing materials for your home or business so give us a shout!

All About Slate Roofing in NJ – Introducing a New Website

Thanks for visiting! We are LGC Roofing, family owned and operated New Jersey roofer. You can keep track of us via our RSS feed, connect with us on Facebook or Twitter.

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

We really love Slate and decided to create a website dedicated specifically to slate roofing named, simply, Slate Roofing NJ.

We have been approached by customers who want choices beyond shingle, the most common roofing material used in the US.

Slate Roofing NJ covers the benefits of natural and composite slate roofing, basic maintenance and repair tips, FAQs and more. We also included a gallery of our latest slate installation & replacement projects in NJ.

We encourage you to visit us at Slate Roofing NJ today!

We’d love to learn what else you would want to see there. Any feedback is welcome.

DaVinci Slate Terracotta Blend Roof Installation

Thanks for visiting! We are LGC Roofing, family owned and operated New Jersey roofer. You can keep track of us via our RSS feed, connect with us on Facebook or Twitter.

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

We’ve been very busy in the last couple of months with a variety of roofing projects. Few stood out as much as the DaVinci synthetic slate terracotta blend standing seam copper roof installation we’ve done just a couple of weeks ago.

We’ve decided to share with you some of the photos we took as the project was completed. Another great installation, another happy customer!!!

Please check out our project gallery for more photos or contact LGC Roofing to request a free estimate on your next roofing project!

How to Choose Roof Shingles for Your NJ Home

Thanks for visiting! We are LGC Roofing, family owned and operated New Jersey roofer. You can keep track of us via our RSS feed, connect with us on Facebook or Twitter.

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.

Tools Needed For Shingle Roof Replacement or Repair

Thanks for visiting! We are LGC Roofing, family owned and operated New Jersey roofer. You can keep track of us via our RSS feed, connect with us on Facebook or Twitter.

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

If you caught our last blog post, you’re now familiar with the tools necessary for shingle roof removal.

If you are planning to repair or replace your shingle New Jersey roof on your own as well, instead of hiring a New Jersey roofing expert, expect to need the following tools and materials at your disposal.

Roofing Installation – Tools Guide

As with shingle removal, safety should be your main concern (whether you’re on a flat roof or a pitched roof with steep surfaces).

Borrow or purchase a heavy-duty, sturdy ladder—or consider renting scaffolding for safer access to extreme heights. In addition, consider a fall protection kit that comes with a harness, roof anchor, lanyard, counterweight and rope. Your fall protection kit should be OSHA-approved, and can be used in conjunction with a hard hat, work gloves and slip-proof boots to prevent injury.

On top of applicable safety equipment, roof replacement and repairs require several common tools that can be purchased at your local hardware store or rented from a local equipment rental shop.

Assuming that the flashing, felt and roof deck are in good order after removing your old shingles, when you are ready to repair or replace your shingle roofing you’ll need:

• 2×4 LUMBER STRIPS, #16 NAILS and HAMMER: Prior to roof replacement, it’s a good idea to install a few 2×4 braces to maintain your footing. Lay each wood piece horizontal to the roof’s edge, and drive nails through each end of the 2×4 to attach them to the roof. Pull up the brace and re-nail it as you move around the roof surface.
• ASPHALT ROOF SHINGLES: Remember to select shingles that complement your home’s paint and trim. Shingles are generally sold in “squares,” and each of these units cover roughly 100 sq. feet. You can read our guide on how to select roof shingles for a better idea on the subject.
• ASPHALT ROOFING CEMENT: Applied to the back side of each shingle, roofing cement helps to secure the shingle during nailing and ensures a tight fit to the roof’s surface. It’s also a good idea to apply roofing cement to nail heads to avoid small leaks.
• GALVANIZED ROOFING NAILS¬: Used to secure shingles during installation. Hammer several galvanized nails through self-sealing strips found on each shingle’s surface.
• REPLACEMENT FLASHING: As you install shingles around eaves, ridges and valleys, it’s important to make sure that all metal flashing is in tact. If not, you’ll need to reapply replacement flashing strips as needed.
• UTILITY or SHARP LINOLEUM KNIFE: Used to cut portions of shingles or trimming shingles to the correct shape and size.
• CHALK LINE: To ensure symmetrical placement of shingles, most roofers snap horizontal and vertical chalk lines on the roof deck. A level is also a useful tool for measuring exact shingle positioning.

Hire Professionals

If you’d prefer to hire a New Jersey roofing expert to replace or repair your asphalt, metal, tile or slate roof, contact the LGC Roofing. Our free consultation is designed to assess the state of your existing roof, and help you choose the roofing material that is the most attractive, durable and cost-effective option for your home or business.
Still planning to install the roof yourself? Let us help. We’ll check the flashing, roof vents, skylights and chimney to make sure they’re structurally sound before you begin installation. Call us at (609) 712-8157 to ask about pricing or to schedule a replacement consultation!

Essential Tools for Shingle Roof Removal

Thanks for visiting! We are LGC Roofing, family owned and operated New Jersey roofer. You can keep track of us via our RSS feed, connect with us on Facebook or Twitter.

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

If your New Jersey shingle roof has begun to age and is regularly requiring more than routine maintenance, it’s time to consider roof replacement.

Experienced do-it-yourselfers may decide to remove the old roofing, themselves, rather than hiring a professional roofer for shingle removal.

If you do opt to remove existing shingle roofing on your own, just remember to gather the correct tools before starting the job.

Safety first

Safety should always come first before you attempt to climb onto your roof’s surface.

We recommend that you acquire one or two sturdy ladders (or scaffolding for extreme heights), along with a fall protection kit. Fall protection kits can be purchased or rented, and typically come with an OSHA-approved harness, roof anchor, counterweight, lanyard and strong rope.

It’s also a good idea to install several roof jacks and planks to prevent a misstep, and to wear slip-proof gloves, a hardhat and work boots.

In addition to safety and accessibility equipment, you’ll need to rent a large dumpster for shingle disposal.

Essential Tools for Shingle Roof Removal

There are also several tools you’ll need to remove shingles and fasteners with ease. They include:

• Roofer’s shovel or shingles scraper: Similar to a flat-blade shovel with pointed teeth and a metal heel, a shingle scraper is designed to slide under the shingle edge. By placing pressure on the metal heel, you can use the tool to pry shingles away from the wood underneath during roof removal. If you purchased your roofer’s shovel, hold onto it. It’s a convenient way to break up ice and remove stubborn tree roots from your landscaping.
• Classic pry bar: The same tool you might use to pull out nails or take apart wood pieces, classic pry bars are smaller and easier to maneuver than a shingle scraper. This is useful if you’re removing broken shingle pieces or rusted nails and fasteners.
• Hammer: For small nails and fasteners that were not pulled out by the roofer’s shovel and pry bar, you may need to use the claw end of a smaller hammer.
• Bar magnet: These handy tools are attached to a sturdy rope, and can be rented from a local hardware store. They are a great way to collect nails and screws that fall off of your roof during shingle removal. Just drag the magnet across your yard and driveway to collect stray metal fasteners that could hurt someone—or deflate a tire.

Roofing Replacement

After removing your roof and disposing of the shingles, you may need the services of a New Jersey roofing expert to install a new metal, shingle or slate roof on your home.

Call LGC Roofing when you’re ready to select the most cost-effective roofing material for your home’s architectural style.

We’ll check the flashing, roof vents, skylights and chimney to make sure they’re structurally sound before attaching your new roofing material – and we offer comprehensive materials and workmanship guarantees.

Call today to schedule your no-obligation roof removal or roof replacement consultation.

Emergency Flat Roof Leak Repairs

Thanks for visiting! We are LGC Roofing, family owned and operated New Jersey roofer. You can keep track of us via our RSS feed, connect with us on Facebook or Twitter.

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

Whether you have a traditional tarred or EPDM rubberized roof, weather-induced flat roof leaks can cause ongoing structural problems and costly damage if they’re not addressed quickly. Before conducting emergency roof improvements on your New Jersey residence, however, make sure that your home’s roof is not still covered by an existing manufacturer’s warranty. If it is, contact your installation contractor as soon as possible so they can repair or replace the affected roof portion without charge.

If severe weather caused your flat roofing damage, it’s best to wait for the weather to pass before attempting to repair the roof. Keep in mind that most emergency roof repairs are considered temporary, and that you should enlist the help of a NJ roof repair specialist for long-term repair solutions.

1. The most important thing to do during a flat roof leak is to protect your home’s interior, including furnishings, carpeting, drywall and hard floors. Spread out plastic sheeting for large leaks, or use buckets to contain smaller leaks.
2. After ensuring that your home’s interior contents are protected, climb carefully onto the roof and remove excess water with a shovel, squeegee, Shop Vac or bucket—depending on the severity of the pooling.
3. After clearing off excess water, try to discern the source of the water problem. You may have a clogged drain or gutter, which can occur when debris builds up over time. If possible, use your hand or a small trowel to remove rocks, leaves or roofing material from the drain or downspout to prevent further pooling.
4. Once you’ve located the exact source of the leak based on the interior dripping pattern and exterior pooling evidence, you’re ready to perform an emergency roofing repair.

Emergency Flat Roof Repairs

Depending on the situation, the following materials may be helpful

• Plastic Roof Cement: If your roof is a single-ply EPDM, built-up or modified bitumen BUR system, you can apply a temporary patch with roofing fabric and plastic cement. First, scrape away loose debris and gravel from the damaged area. After cleaning and drying the area as best you can, apply your cement, extending several inches beyond the leak to ensure full coverage. Continue to work the cement into the roof’s membrane with your trowel or mud knife. Cover the cement layer with fiberglass fabric, and apply a second cement layer to reinforce the repair. (Note: If your roofing surface is exceedingly wet, look for “rain patch” cement.)    
• Roof Tape and Roofing Sealant: Useful for built-up, single-ply EPDM and PVC surfaces, this repair option should also be applied to a clean, dry area. After wiping the surface clean with alcohol, apply polyurethane caulking or roof tape to the damaged area. (Note: You may have to purchase roofing tape through a roofing contractor or materials dealer, since it is not always available in builder supply stores.)
• Duct tape: If your roof is composed of PVC plastic sheeting, you can use layers of duct tape to create a quick-patch. Remember, however, that the duct tape will not last long—especially if you’re expecting additional rain or severe wind.

After applying temporary patches to your New Jersey home’s leaky flat roof, contact a professional roofer. LGC Roofing will give you a competitive repair estimate, and can also suggest a more permanent solution—like a new EPDM roof. These new, rubberized designs are durable, cost effective and weather resistant, and come with exceptional warranties and performance guarantees. Call us today to schedule your repair consultation or inquire about full flat roof resurfacing.

Tackle Your Flat, Leaky New Jersey Roof with EPDM

Thanks for visiting! We are LGC Roofing, family owned and operated New Jersey roofer. You can keep track of us via our RSS feed, connect with us on Facebook or Twitter.

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.

Barrel Tile Roof Restoration – NJ Roofing Project

Thanks for visiting! We are LGC Roofing, family owned and operated New Jersey roofer. You can keep track of us via our RSS feed, connect with us on Facebook or Twitter.

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

The project

Few weeks ago we were called by a worried homeowner in Teaneck, NJ who requested a roof inspection as she suspected a leak damaging the tile rood of her house. We often get such calls, especially at this time of the year when the weather takes a huge tall on a roofing structure.

Upon inspection of the roof we discovered not one but several leaks caused by broken tiles and rusted flashings. We offered an estimate for a leak repair and roof restoration and got the job!

The process

First step was to carefully remove all of the existing barrel tiles from the roof.

Special care is taken to avoid any further damage to existing tile and make sure that we salvage as much as possible.

Once the tile was removed and collected, the next step was to inspect the underlying wood decking.

There was significant damage here, so we replaced the decking as needed, removing rotted material and installing new pieces.

Next we installed copper flashings, then ice and water shield underlayment and wood to support tile.

Finally, the roof was ready for the tile. We re-installed all of the salvaged tiles filling in with additional ones as needed.

Another great project done. Another happy NJ homeowner! Thank you LGC Roofing TEAM!

NJ Roofing Blog Featured on “50 Sites To Help You Remodel Your Home”

NJ Roofing Blog has been featured in an article at ConstructionManagementSchools.net as one of the “50 Sites To Help You Remodel Your Home”.

We are very honored to have been recognized as a top useful resource. We love sharing our knowledge and experience to help you!

Here is an excerpt from “50 Sites To Help You Remodel Your Home”:

“If you are thinking of, in the middle of, or have finished remodeling your home, here are 50 sites that will help you or allow you to use your knowledge to help others. Through these sites you will find everything from architects and designers to real people going through the same process. If you have a question or in need of ideas, this list will help you get there.”

Continue reading: 50 Sites To Help You Remodel Your Home