How to Choose Roof Shingles for Your NJ Home

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

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

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

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

3 Tips on Roof Shingle Selection

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

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

Your Local NJ Roofer is Here to Help

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

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

5 Frequently Asked Questions about Metal Roofs

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

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

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

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

Metal roofs offer a number of advantages, which include:

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

2. Are metal roofs eco-friendly?

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

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

3. Is a metal roof hard to install?

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

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

In Conclusion

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

Spring Maintenance Tips for a Healthy Roof

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

Your New Jersey roof may have survived the snow and cold, but now it’s time to survey the damage that winter might have caused.
Spring roof maintenance is a necessary part of lengthening the lifespan of your roof – and protecting your home’s precious interior. So, when it’s time to conduct your spring roof inspection, remember these three areas of concern.

1. Gutters

Your gutter system was designed to remove water from your roof in order to

• prevent pooling and moisture buildup,
• prevent damage to your home’s structure, and
• discourage moisture-related mold growth

Dirty, not properly maintained gutters can shorten the life of your roof, so it’s critical that you check them one to two times a year.
Spring is a great time to check out your gutters and remove large chunks of debris by hand or with a garden trowel. After manually removing debris, use a power sprayer, hose or water bucket to clean out the remaining dirt buildup.
Remember, if you have a number of tall trees on your property—you may need to check gutters more frequently for stray leaves and twigs.
After cleaning out your gutters, it’s important to be proactive about trimming tree overhangs and large branches. Use a chainsaw or hand trimmer to clip branches away from the roof, especially if they appear to be dropping debris into your gutters. Next, check gutters for loose or rusty sections.
Most gutters are easy and inexpensive to replace. If you’re not comfortable making basic gutter repairs LGC Roofing installs and repairs gutters in New Jersey – call us at 609-712-8157 for a Free Estimate.

2. Shingle integrity

After checking, cleaning and replacing gutters, your next step is to survey the shingle field for damage – you will possibly need some basic shingle repairs.
Climb carefully onto the roof, and scan your shingles for missing pieces, peeling areas or grain loss. The small rock and mineral grains on your shingles help to protect your roof from the elements. If shingles are broken or begin to look smooth and “grainless,” it’s time to replace them.
You can replace a shingle by carefully removing the old one (and potentially the two to three surrounding shingles). After removing nails and fasteners, slide a new, same-sized shingle into place and nail it down. Cover each nail with roofing cement to prevent water penetration, and weight the shingle down overnight to ensure a tight seal.

Flashing repairs

Flashing, or the metal strips that seal gaps and prevent water from seeping under shingles, should be checked during each semi-annual roof inspection.
It’s especially important to inspect flashing around your chimney, skylights and valley regions. Those are 3 most common roof leak locations since winter wind and storms may cause flashing to pull away at these areas. Using small roof fasteners, tack down loose flashing and seal tack holes with roof cement. Call the LGC roofing professionals when you have more serious flashing problems.

In Conclusion

While it’s easy to do simple roof inspections and repairs yourself, it’s advisable to hire an expert if your home has an aging roof, or if your New Jersey roof is particularly steep and dangerous. Ready to schedule your spring roof inspection?
Call LGC Roofing today to schedule a free estimate, inquire about repair pricing or arrange a gutter assessment. 609-712-8157.

Living Green: Tips for Choosing an Eco-Friendly Roof

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

If you’re a home or business owner committed to living sustainably, conserving energy and lowering costly utility bills, there are a growing number of eco-friendly roofing ideas for today’s market. If you’re unsure about how to “green” your roof, the professionals at LGC Roofing can help you select a roofing option that’s environmentally friendly, affordable—and attractive. Below are some of the most popular ways to embrace roofing sustainability and energy efficiency.

1. Choose metal roofing. Choosing a green roofing material, such as metal, almost always translates into lower energy bills down the road. Metal roofing transmits far less heat to your attic, it will reflect, rather then absorb, heat from the sun, and it’s a great roofing material if you ever consider solar panel installation.
2. Purchase recycled shingles. Traditional shingles are difficult to recycle when it’s time to replace your roof, and contain chemicals that are released into the air during sunlight exposure. On the other hand, green shingles are made of materials like cellulose fiber, reinforced vinyl, sawdust, recycled plastic and rubber. Some of these eco-friendly shingles come with warranties of up to 50 years, and most can be “re-recycled” after they’re removed from your roof.
3. Choose clay or slate. These naturally occurring materials are big in the green roofing industry, since they’re particularly energy efficient and beautiful. Slate is the most durable of the two (lasting up to 100 years or more), but clay is typically more affordable. Both can be installed and disposed of without polluting the environment or releasing dangerous chemicals.
4. Install building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) roofing. BIPV roofing systems contain tiles and an electric current system, and function much like a solar coating for your roof. Many of the photovoltaic tile options offer an attractive look that complements shingles, metal and slate roofs. In addition, BIPV’s allow for solar-generated energy to enter your home, decreasing your electric bill in a clean, environmentally friendly manner.
5. Remember sustainable roofing insulation. Green insulation plays a significant role in energy savings. Ask LGC Roofing, your local NJ roofer about insulating your roof with recycled cellulose fiber, sheep’s wool or formaldehyde-free fiberglass to lower emissions and decrease energy use.

At LGC Roofing, we realize that choosing the right roof for your New Jersey home is based on a variety of factors—including cost, climate, home style and commitment to the environment. To find out more about affordable, eco-friendly roof materials call us at call 609-712-8157 or schedule a no-obligation roofing consultation online! Our material and installation experts will work with you to stay within your budget—and help you select a roof that’s both beautiful and sustainable.

New Jersey Shingle Roof Repair in 5 Easy Steps

While it’s best to inspect your roof at least once a year to keep shingle problems from leading to major structural repairs, your asphalt or composite shingles may begin leaking or showing signs of localized damage at any time.

The good news is that composite roofing should last for 15 to 20 years, and shingle repair is relatively simple.

Once you’ve located a trouble spot, check the integrity of the surrounding shingles. Look for visible cracks or damage. Test damaged or curling shingles by gently bending the shingle corner. Serviceable shingles should flex nicely. If they are old or weather damaged, the corner may break, instead.

If this occurs—and the roofing material seems to be losing its color and shape, it’s time to replace the affected shingles entirely. If not, you can often repair them in a few, basic steps.

Shingle Roof Repair in 5 Easy Steps

1. Choose a sunny day to make your repairs, since the sun’s warmth makes shingles easier to work with.
2. If a corner is pulling away or a shingle is torn, lift the damaged piece and apply a layer of roofing cement to the bottom of it. You may need to use a pry bar to raise the shingle piece high enough to apply the cement. A putty knife works well for sealant application, but you can use any dull, flat-edged tool.
3. Tack down the cement-treated piece with roofing nails so the adhesive has time to seal properly. The nails will also help the shingle piece stay in place permanently.
4. After tacking down curled corners, broken pieces or torn shingles, spread a layer of plastic roofing adhesive or tar over the cracked area. You should also apply the sealant directly over the nail heads to ensure that water does not seep in through the nail holes.
5. As you begin to repair compromised asphalt pieces, take note of the roof’s overall state. If you find yourself repairing or replacing dozens of shingles due to hail, storms or basic wear-and-tear, it may be time to contact a qualifying New Jersey roofer to handle more extensive repairs—or replace your entire roof.

Hire a Roofing Professional

While many do-it-yourselfers repair their own composite shingles, it’s often best to leave entire roof makeovers to the experts. Call LGC Roofing to schedule a thorough inspection of your home’s roof and attic space. We’ll recommend cost-effective repairs, and if you have to replace your shingle roof, our prices are competitive and our craftsmanship is second-to-none.

Remember, putting off shingle roof repairs can lead to costly attic and roof sheathing damage. Get your shingle roof repaired by a qualified NJ roofer.

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

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

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

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

Benefits of PV Laminate Panels

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

Other solar laminate advantages include:

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

Why Standing Seam Metal Roofing?

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

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

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

Hire a Professional Roofer!

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

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

4 Ongoing Roof Winterization Tips You Cannot Miss

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

Winter Isn’t Over Yet

Your roof is a critical part of your home’s defense against the elements, and winter can wreak havoc on it. If you think winter is over, you need to know that March and even April can be just as damaging to the roof’s integrity as the coldest winter months we’ve just endured.

To maintain your roof’s structure and fend off costly damage caused by bitter snow, ice and wind, check out these simple, do-it-yourself winterization tips offered by LGC Roofing.

4 Ongoing Roof Winterization Tips You Cannot Miss

1. Debris removal: Clearing your roof and gutters of branches and debris helps ensure proper drainage as ice begins to melt. While you may be able to clear twigs and leaves from a ladder, it may be necessary to climb onto the rooftop in some cases-depending on your roof’s architecture. Wearing heavy gloves to protect your hands from sharp objects, carefully remove debris piles from the roof and gutters. If possible, direct downspouts away from the house and run water through cleared gutters to wash out remaining dirt buildup.
2. Inspect gutters for wear and damage: After cleaning out gutters and eaves, perform a visual inspection of your roof’s drainage system. Make a note of gutter cracks, rusty spots or holes, as you may soon need to fix these or hire someone to repair them. It is simpler–and less expensive–to replace small portions of the gutter rather than waiting until extensive damage has occurred. It’s also important to ensure that your gutters are soundly mounted along each portion of your home’s perimeter.
3. Inspect flashing and roof covering: Look for buckled or broken shingles, make sure flashing is properly sealed, and check that roof edges are firmly attached. Rain, wind and ice dams can cause extensive damage along roof seams and around the roof edge, so it’s important to ensure that all materials are secure and that there are no flashing tears or shingle warping.
4. Look for algae and moss growth: Dark areas of lichen or roof algae don’t just affect your home’s visual appeal. They are also an indicator that portions of your home’s roof are damper than others, and over time, this continual moisture buildup may cause excessive shingle and structural wear. Keep an eye on these areas, and call a qualified roofer if you’re concerned about excessive water damage.

Protect Your Property – Inspect Your Roof Today

It’s important to remember that a thorough, winter maintenance program can prevent weather-related leaks, roofing decay and gutter damage—and will ultimately prolong the life of your roof. We have previously detailed some DIY roof inspection tips you can start with.

However, if there are serious concerns about the state of your roof or you simply need a professional to inspect it for you, we’re here to help. We offer a comprehensive inspection of the interior and exterior of your roofing and gutter systems so don’t risk further damage, contact LGC Roofing now. We’re here to serve You!

4 Steps to Diagnosing a Leaky Metal Roof

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If the metal roof on your home or business develops a leak, it’s important to locate and repair it quickly so you don’t incur damage to your drywall, floors, molding and insulation.

While it may take awhile to find, there are several things to look for when you’re trying to diagnose a metal roof leak.

4 Steps to Diagnosing a Leaky Metal Roof

1. If the attic is accessible, inspect it with a flashlight. You’re looking for discoloration and dark stains indicating that the wood is wet—or was recently wet. In extreme cases, you may see mold or mildew stains inside the attic. If possible, trace the dark stain to a screw or nail hole, roof valley or joint. Take note of its location before heading out to inspect the metal roof’s exterior.
2. On a sunny, dry day, examine the exterior of your roof—paying special attention to the potentially leaky valleys, joints and screws you noted in the attic. Several things may cause leaks, including loose flashing, joints, ridge caps or fasteners. Re-secure all loose fasteners and check the integrity of all joints, making sure that all caulking is in tact and water is not seeping underneath. Extreme heat or cold can damage rubber sealant, so you may need to reapply it in potentially leaky areas. Make sure you purchase caulking that is approved for exterior, metal roof use.
3. Carefully inspect the perimeter of the chimney, if one is present, since flashing can draw up around the chimney’s edge. It’s important to replace or tighten all warped flashing to avoid future water problems. You may also wish to apply a new layer of caulking around the chimney’s base.
4. Remember, water damage can be difficult to diagnose because it does not always occur directly below your metal roof leak. Water may run down a valley and trickle into a window, or pool in the attic and cause damage to interior walls.

Don’t Let a Leak in Your Metal Roof Go Unnoticed

If you’re not comfortable inspecting your metal roof yourself or are unable to find the source of a persistent roof leak, call LGC Roofing, top NJ roofing professionals. Our technicians will thoroughly inspect your home’s interior and exterior, recommending affordable roof repairs before you develop a costly structural issue or an ongoing mold problem.

4 Do-It-Yourself Post Winter Roof Inspection Tips

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

Though winter is still hanging around, it’s time to begin thinking about readying your home for spring temperatures. Remember, though, that even as the weather warms, spring storms and poor roof ventilation may continue to cause lingering ice dams and ongoing roof leak problems. That’s why it’s important to give your roof some TLC after harsh winter months.

4 Do-It-Yourself Post Winter Roof Inspection Tips

1. On a warm, dry day, inspect your entire roof for loose tiles, curled shingles and detached flashing. Make plans to fasten flashing gaps, and replace compromised tiles and shingles so they’ll weather spring storms. If you notice that harsh winter weather has worn away roof granules, affected shingles may also need to be replaced.
2. Rather than waiting until you have an overflow problem, plan to conduct “spring cleaning” of your rain gutters. Clear shingle debris, tree branches and dead leaves out of your gutters to ensure that water flow isn’t compromised during a heavy rain or spring snowstorm. If it’s warm enough, you may wish to use a hose or pressure washer to more completely clear gutters and downspouts.
3. Remove moss and lichen from your roof by sweeping it off (if it’s dry) or applying a moss-removal chemical and sweeping it off after it has been killed.
4. After repairing roof leaks, tightening/replacing shingles and getting rid of ice dams, you may need to repair interior ceiling stains. Some stains can be repainted, while others require drywall repair to restore the ceiling and wall texture.

Hire a Roofing Professional

Remember to take proper safety measures if you’ll conduct your own spring roof inspection. Make sure someone is home, or let a neighbor know of your plans to climb on the roof.
If you’re uncomfortable examining or repairing your ailing roof, contact the roofing experts at LGC. Our qualified contractors are ready to examine your home for severe roof leaks and necessary materials replacement—and we offer a no-obligation consultation and price quote so you can make an informed decision regarding any roof repairs that might be needed.

3 Reasons for Common Winter Roof Repairs: Leaks, Water Damage and Ice Dams

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

The annual season of snow, wind and ice can brutalize our home’s exterior, leaving a number of frustrating roofing repairs in its wake. To avoid wet (and expensive) damage to your roof this winter, it’s important to educate yourself on common winter roof problems and take immediate action to save costly, time-consuming damage to your residence.

Problem #1: Roof Leak at Flashing or Drain

Roofs tend to leak in several main locations.

• For sloped roofs, residents may notice a post-storm roof leak at flashing areas—where aluminum is installed to protect roof edges and corners. Improper installation or high winds and rain can loosen flashing, causing it to pull away. Flashing inspections can be conducted prior to winter’s worst storms to ensure that it’s attached well enough to prevent water seepage. Flashing is also relatively inexpensive to replace, so replacing it before a major storm can save you thousands in repairs.
• Homeowners with flat roofs may notice leaks at drain locations. These leaks typically occur because a drain has not been properly maintained. When it becomes clogged with debris, drainage is slowed. Conducting monthly to bi-monthly inspections of drains and terraced areas can help avoid the clogs that lead to more major problems.

Problem #2: Structural Water Damage

Heavy snowstorms or ice buildupkeeps your home from heating efficiently, and can cause damage to roofing shingles and trusses, as well. If you live in an area with severe winter weather, consider asking a qualified roofing professional about installing an attic ventilation system. Attic vents help to circulate air in and out of your home’s attic, reducing interior condensation and preventing snow and ice from remaining on your roof for long periods. As mentioned in our previous blogs, proper roofing ventilation can save homeowners hundreds a year on their utility bills, as well.

Problem #3: Ice Damming

When snow and ice accumulate in gutters and along roof ridges, melting water is unable to drain properly. As water backs up behind these ice dams, it can seep under flashing or penetrate your roof shingles, tiles, ceilings and walls—leading to major water damage. To prevent ice dams from ruining your home’s exterior and interior, remove snow from the roof using a roof rake (if it’s a safe option).

In the long-term, it’s important to seal air leaks between your roof and attic, increase roofing insulation and ensure that your ceiling is air tight.

In Conclusion

Being aware of common winter problems, continually maintaining your home’s roof during fall and winter and a regular roof inspection can help you avoid a roof leak, costly roof repair—or even an entire roof replacement.

Don’t risk costly damage. Ask LGC Roofing to assess your home for potential leaks, ice dams and ventilation problems this winter, and plan to schedule regular winter maintenance in order to protect your home’s exterior and save time—and cash.