Flat Roofing: Common Problems and Repair Solutions

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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!

While flat roofing work well for many structures, they also come with a variety of common problems.
Designed to be simpler than elaborate slate, shingle and metal-style roofs, flat and low-slope roofs may suffer from leaks and damage due to flashing issues, seal problems and poor installation.
If you’re comfortable with do-it-yourself projects, however, you can rectify a number of these simple, inexpensive roofing problems using the repair steps listed below.

Common Flat Roofing Problems and Repair Solutions

• During winter and spring months, it’s important to inspect flat roofs for snow buildup. When cold weather persists, snow and ice can block drains and gutters, allowing water to puddle into “ponds.” The first and most important step is to remove excess water from your building roof. You can get rid of standing water using a squeegee, shovel or broom. Then, sweep the roof to remove leaf debris and dirt that may be covering cracked or damaged areas.
• If drains are not cleared and standing water isn’t properly redirected, your home or business may develop a serious roof leak that can damage attic insulation, indoor furnishings and flooring. If you locate an area of your roof where water perpetually pools, take time to pull up the existing rubber roofing material, bolster the underlying insulation and re-install rubber shingles and new flashing. Stressed about doing emergency roof repairs yourself? Call your New Jersey roof repair specialist at 609-712-8157.
• Many flat roof leaks occur due to cracks in the sheathing, which may be caused by normal weathering or material irregularities. If you encounter a crack during your roof inspection, (a) peel up the surrounding sheathing, allowing moist areas to dry, (b) squeeze high-quality roofing cement into the crack, and (c) replace the sheathing by tacking it down with fasteners. You may wish to apply two to three layers of cement to ensure optimal coverage and future leak prevention. When your repair is completed, use a garden hose to test the area—but only after the roofing cement has dried for 24 hours or more.
• If your flat roof leak is related to roof flashing damage, it may be caused by fungus growth. As moisture builds up in problem areas, fungus begins to grow and push away the shingles or flashing. First, protect yourself with work gloves and a safety mask to avoid fungus inhalation. Second, apply a recommended roofing fungicide at the source of the leak. You may need to use multiple fungicide treatments if buildup is severe. Finally, purchase a flashing repair kit. The kit should provide detailed instructions about replacing problem flashing, sealing damaged areas and allowing adequate dry time.

Let LGC Roofing Help!

If you’re comfortable that your flat roof was installed with care, the best way to prevent roofing problems is through regular inspections and maintenance visits. Call LGC Roofing professionals today to schedule your semi-annual flat roof inspection, or to inquire about EPDM roofing option.

Roof Replacement Estimate – What You Should Know

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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 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!

Choosing Copper Roofing 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!

While it comes with a price tag that’s higher than other metals, copper roofing lends durability and character to any structure—no matter what the size or style.

From traditional Victorian, Colonial and Tudor homes to postmodern and contemporary buildings, copper roofing is a preferred roofing material chosen for its architectural beauty and long-lasting construction.

Benefits of Copper Roofing

• Other than its obvious aesthetic value, copper roofs come with many undisputed benefits. For instance, did you know that when a copper roof is installed at industry-best standards, it requires no painting or finishing? Many other roofing materials need to be sealed, finished or painted in some way—which leads to additional cost and long-term maintenance requirements. Copper is strong, attractive and resilient—all on its own.
• It’s important to note that the finish of your New Jersey copper-clad roof will change with time. Natural weathering, moisture and oxidations will turn the roof’s golden-brown tone to a green “patina” finish. Many homeowners agree that this is the beauty of copper roofing. However, if you prefer the original color, ask your New Jersey roofing professional about treatment methods that slow the weathering process. Remember—the changing finish of your copper roof will not negatively impact its performance.
• While copper roofs have been around for over a century, they never go out of style. The timeless metal is used to protect homes, shopping malls, places of worship and sports facilities—among other building types.
• One of the most significant reasons for copper’s popularity is its sustainable, energy-efficient design. For home and business owners searching for a Green roofing option, copper fits the bill. First, it’s made primarily of refinery scrap—so it does not require excessive use of natural resources. Second, it is easily recycled at the end of its lifespan, and third—it reflects the sun’s rays, preventing heat transmission and reducing cooling bills.

Perhaps the most important reason to consider a copper roof is its durability—and the positive impact that has on your home investment.

According to Metal Roofing Alliance President William Hippard, metal roofs add up to $1.45 per square foot to your home’s overall value.

LGC Roofing Installs Copper

Your new copper roof will protect and beautify your home or business for decades—especially if it’s installed correctly. For more information about copper roofing brands, call LGC Roofing at 609-712-8157, or request a free estimate via our brief contact form.

All About Slate Roofing in NJ – Introducing a New Website

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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!

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.

Slate Roofing – Frequently Asked Questions

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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!

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.

7 Tips for Choosing a NJ Roofing Contractor

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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 roof is a valuable investment, so it’s important to conduct a thorough evaluation of roofing contractors in your area before hiring a roofer for repairs or replacement.

When entrusting your home to a New Jersey roofing contractor, exercise due diligence. It may take some time to shop around for a roofer, but your research will help to ensure a quality roofing job at a fair price.

7 Tips for Selecting a Great Roofer

1. Check with the Better Business Bureau and area Chamber of Commerce to get a list of roofing contractors who’ve been recommended by members of your community. Once you have a comprehensive list of contractor names, you can begin screening them online and over the phone.
2. Never hire a roofer who’s not licensed to do their job—no matter how great a deal they promise you. Stick with roofers who are licensed and insured so you’ll be covered if something happens to your home during the roofing process. If you’re unsure about a roofer’s credentials, don’t be afraid to ask them for proof of licensing, bonding, liability insurance, workers’ comp and industry certifications.
3. Request personal references when you talk with a roofing company representative. High-quality companies should provide you with a list of satisfied customers who are willing to be contacted. You may also be able to find reviews of roofing contractors online at search engines like Kudzu, Yahoo! Local, Insider Pages and Yelp.
4. Ask potential New Jersey roofers about the length and types of warranties they provide. Quality warranties should last three to five years, and cover defective materials and workmanship. In addition, the contractor you choose should provide you with a complete copy of the manufacturer’s warranty, and address any questions you have about the paperwork.
5. Find out how you can contact the roofing company, and who will be in charge of your repair or installation. Your job foreman should also be willing to provide contact information, such as a cell phone number, for emergencies.
6. Make sure that your New Jersey roofing contractor is an expert in installing or repairing your particular roofing material. For example, LGC Roofing specializes in a number of roofing materials, including metal, slate, tile, composite shingle roofing and more.
7. Finally, before you sign on the dotted line—ask for a written proposal that includes starting and completion dates, detailed costs, installation procedures and warranty information.

Top quality NJ roofing contractor.

When your NJ home requires a new or refurbished roof, rely on the professionals at LGC Roofing. We’re a family-owned business with over two decades of roofing experience, and our exceptional Better Business Bureau record speaks for itself. Call today to request a free estimate or schedule a no-obligation roofing consultation with a member of our professional team.

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.

Tools Needed For Shingle Roof Replacement or Repair

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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 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

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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 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.

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.