NJ Roofing Blog » roof life

When to Hire a Roofing Inspection Contractor

Lukasz Sobczuk — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 14:44:46 +0000

Roof inspectors are professional contractors who specialize in diagnosing the nature of roof problems and providing accurate repair estimates.

While some roofing problems are obvious—missing shingles, weather damage, rot—others are very difficult for a layperson to identify. Roofing contractors in NJ can help you minimize expenses by precisely diagnosing the nature of the problem and providing you with multiple options for correcting it.

When to Hire a Roofing Inspection Contractor

Professional roofing inspection may be especially beneficial when:

You are considering the purchase of a new home. If you’re thinking about buying an older home, or you suspect there may be roofing problems, getting a professional inspection done provides you with an objective opinion you can trust.
You are selling your home. A roofing inspector has the specific knowledge needed to help you accurately calculate price adjustments if you’re not going to replace your roof in advance of selling your house.
You are experiencing leaks but are unable to identify their source. This is a problem that only a professional can solve, and it’s not one you want to put off solving. Leaks can lead to serious structural damage.
Your roofing is more than 20 years old. A professional roofing inspector can also identify problems before they happen, and in many cases, you can save a great deal of money if you address them early.

Commercial Roofing Inspection Tip

If you are the owner or manager of a commercial property, there are additional circumstances that may require you to call in a roofing inspector.

Commercial roofing contractors can help ensure that your facilities are up to state and regional safety codes. It is strongly recommended that you consult a roofing contractor before finalizing the purchase or sale of any commercial property, as you may be held legally responsible in the event that roofing problems lead to personal injury or damage to the businesses operating in the building.

At LGC Roofing, we offer both residential roofing and commercial roofing inspection and repair services. We’ve earned a well-deserved reputation for elite performance at a fair and affordable price, so if you want to protect yourself before purchasing or selling property, or if you need to diagnose the nature of a roofing problem, contact us for a free estimate.

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5 Easy Shingle Roofing Repairs That Will Extend the Life of Your Roof

Lukasz Sobczuk — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 14:42:13 +0000

Despite the rising interest in materials like copper and tile, most roofs are still made of shingles.

Replacing a shingle roof can be a pricey proposition, so it’s beneficial to understand simple fixes and preventive measures that extend roof life and protect your roofing investment.

5 Easy Shingle Roofing Repairs

Here are five easy repair tasks that can prevent premature aging and decay of your roof shingles:

Apply a liquid polymer coating. These coatings can help stave off water and weather damage and keep your shingles looking newer for longer. They are widely available through home improvement retailers, and can be applied in just a few hours. These coatings work best when used on new shingle roofs.
Replace worn shingles promptly. If your shingles wear out or fall off, your naked roof is exposed to wind, sleet, snow, hail and rain, which will eventually cause it to rot or leak – and that will be an even more expensive fix.
Cut overhanging branches. If you have tall trees around your house, prevent roof damage by trimming back branches that are hanging over your home. Consult local guidelines to see if you are allowed to cut branches that hang over your roof even if the tree is located on a neighboring property.
Be vigilant about your gutters. Leaves and debris in your gutters can prevent rainwater from properly draining through your downspouts, which in turn can cause damage to both your shingles and your roof. It’s recommended that you clean your gutters at least twice annually—in spring and fall.
Make regular inspections. Inspect both your roof and your attic ceilings (and any other ceilings in direct contact with your roof) for signs of exterior or interior damage, wear, leaks, rot or structural problems. If you find any, repair them right away; the longer you leave them, the more expensive the fixes will become.

If you need professional advice, or if you’ve encountered a roofing problem that’s beyond your ability to repair, you can trust LGC Roofing to provide reliable and affordable services for home roofing repair in NJ. We provide free, no-obligation estimates for both residential and commercial roofing repair services throughout New Jersey. We’re ready to make your home or business roof last decades to come.

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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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Residential Roofing: Fall Inspection of Your Roof Shingles

Lukasz Sobczuk — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 15:05:32 +0000

As the days get shorter and winter makes an appearance, it’s the ideal time to schedule your fall roofing inspection. Autumn is the prime time to take care of any minor roofing repairs that may be needed to keep your roof shingles healthy during the long, bitter cold.

Healthy Shingles for a Safe Roof

A shingle roof is the most popular roofing structure, though the material type varies widely. Shingles composed of wood, slate, tile or asphalt are the outward surface of your roof, and can suffer greatly during inclement weather.

Rain, snow, hail and even extreme heat can cause shingle damage, including:

• blistering
• peeling
• curling
• loss of granules
• cracking
• rotting

The exact nature of the shingle damage to your home’s roofing may vary according to recent weather events and shingle materials.

The bottom line, however, remains the same: shingle damage can lead to roof leaks, roof buckling and structural damage if it’s not caught early.

Shingle Roof Inspection

When it’s time for semi-annual roof maintenance, LCG Roofing has the experience and professionalism to manage all of your residential roofing needs.

Contact your experienced residential roofing NJ contractor to schedule a fall inspection. Fall shingle inspections are performed with utmost attention to detail, particularly around the chimney, attic vents and flashing, to make sure shingles and roof underlayment are structurally sound.

Shingle roof inspections also include assessment of gutters, siding and eaves. Signs of dry rot or water damage should be addressed in a timely fashion to prevent further damage as the wintry weather approaches.

Contact LGC Roofing today at (609) 712-8157 to inquire about fall shingle inspections or to schedule your NJ roofing repairs. We are a family-owned company that has served New Jersey since 1985, and we strive to provide total client satisfaction with every service visit!

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Fall Roof Maintenance: From Inspection to Gutter Cleaning

Lukasz Sobczuk — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 15:01:00 +0000

The crisp cool air and sweater weather is a sure sign that fall has arrived in New Jersey. Fall is not only the time to bundle up, winterize your garden and settle in for the cold ahead—but it’s also the season for giving extra attention to your roof and gutter systems.

Before snow storms move in, schedule an autumn roof inspection with a reputable New Jersey roofing contractor.

Importance of Fall Roof Inspection

Your roof can sustain damage throughout the year from rain, hail and severe temperatures—at either end of the heat spectrum. The trained eye of a qualified roofing professional can spot minor problems such as bruising, water stains and dry rot.

Repairing these instances of minor damage before winter arrives can help prevent larger and more costly problems heading into spring. A thorough fall roof inspection can give you a head start on fixing your roof, and may prevent you from spending a lot of money on a complete replacement.

Proper Gutter Maintenance

A widespread problem facing New Jersey homeowners is water damage stemming from pooling snow and ice.

The gutters on your home are designed to keep moisture flowing off of your roof and away from your home. However, gutters that become clogged with leaves, dirt and other debris impede the normal drainage process, making the structure more susceptible to water damage.

Gutters that are warped from inclement weather, or those that have been improperly installed, may also contribute to roof damage.

If you have sustained gutter damage, call LCG Roofing, your trusted New Jersey roofing contractor. Our team of professionals not only performs roof repairs, but gutter repairs and installations, as well.

Get Ready For Winter, Contact LGC Roofing

The National Roofing Contractor’s Association recommends twice-yearly roof inspections to keep your home safe from weather-related roof damage. The fall and spring are optimum times to schedule both a roof inspection and a gutter cleaning.

Just as your mark your calendar for planting and winterizing your garden, make roof and gutter maintenance part of your annual routine. Call LGC Roofing at (609) 712-8157 to schedule your next roof inspection—or inquire about high-performance roof replacement.

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EPDM Roofing is the Best Flat Roofing Material

Lukasz Sobczuk — Tue, 25 Oct 2011 14:43:26 +0000

The horizontal design of flat roofing makes the type of roofing significantly more difficult to maintain. Flat roofs take a beating in wet weather; more so than a sloped roof. The water that pools on flat roofs after heavy snow or rain increases the likelihoods of roof leaks.

It is crucial, therefore, to select the best roofing material when considering a new surface for your flat roofing. This is where EPDM comes in.

What is EPDM

EPDM, or ethylene propylene diene monomer, is a synthetic rubber product that is one of the best roofing options for your New Jersey flat roof. While flat roofing does not last as long as a slate or asphalt shingle sloped roof (because of moisture pooling), EPDM is relatively durable and easy to install by your experienced NJ roofing contractor.

Why EPDM is Your Best Option

This synthetic rubber product provides flexibility when you are faced with roof repairs, extending the lifespan of your roof until you are ready to undergo a complete roof replacement. In addition, EPDM is designed to withstand the high temperatures of a New Jersey summer as well as the bitter cold, and does not crack or melt as the mercury rises.

EPDM roofing components, called membranes, can be used to seal and secure an existing flat roof, as well. The membranes are lightweight and do not require the use special installation equipment. The ease of application makes EPDM installation jobs easier for your New Jersey roofing contractor, and less expensive for your home repair budget. Best of all, soap and water are the only cleansers needed to maintain an EPDM-treated flat roof.

Call LGC Roofing to Install EPDM on Your Roof

If you need to replace the material on your flat roof, consider EPDM. Its many benefits and ease of installation make it the best roofing option for you.

While homeowners can install EPDM membranes themselves, remember, that correct placement of membranes is crucial to the continued performance of your flat roof. Proper installation is key in avoiding future flat roofing repairs. And with over 25 years of experience in residential and commercial roofing LGC Roofing is your best bet. Our licensed roofing experts will offer a thorough roofing estimate and promptly take care of the project at hand.

When the time comes to replace your flat roof with EPDM rubber roofing, call at (609) 712-8157.We operate throughout the state on New Jersey, offer Free Estimates and are fully licensed and insured.

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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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Pros and Cons of Copper Roofing

Lukasz Sobczuk — Tue, 16 Aug 2011 15:02:44 +0000

Metal roofs are becoming increasingly popular as homeowners seek long-lasting, eco-friendly alternatives to asphalt shingles and other traditional roofing materials.

Pros and Cons of Copper Roofing

One of today’s most aesthetic, popular metal roofing selections is copper. Copper roofing is striking, especially as it ages. Established copper roofs develop a unique, blue/green “patina” over time, and they look extraordinary when paired with wooden or brick exteriors of a complementary color. While more costly than other metal roofing types, copper serves to boost your structure’s curb appeal while substantially increase its resale value.

The benefits of copper roofing go beyond aesthetics, though. Copper is one of the most fireproof roofing materials on the market; it’s also highly water-resistant, and is excellent at preventing rainwater from penetrating your home.

Like all metal roofing materials, copper is long-lasting, with a life expectancy of at least 50 years. This far exceeds the expected lifespan of cheaper roofing materials.

Copper’s light weight is also well worth considering, especially given the relatively high levels of New Jersey snowfall. Because it is such a light material, it puts little stress on your home’s structural elements and foundation: helping owners avoid the costly problems associated with such stresses.

While copper is a superior roofing material overall, there are a few drawbacks that should be considered. First, like all metal roofs, copper roofing is noisy during storms. It tends to amplify weather noise, rather than dampening it. Also, as temperatures change over the seasons, copper roofs can expand and contract significantly, and this can loosen the roof’s fasteners. You will need to draw on the expertise of a skilled NJ roofing contractor to prevent these problems, as there are technologies available to inhibit copper’s natural expansion and contraction.

Considering Copper Roof? Contact LGC Roofing

The metal roofing experts at LGC Roofing are pleased to offer copper among our diverse and eye-catching line of residential and commercial metal roof products. Our installation professionals have the experience and expertise to install and repair all brands of copper roofing, and are known for their efficient, courteous manner. To learn more about copper roofing or request a no-obligation price quote for your home or business, please contact our NJ roofing team today.