NJ Roofing Blog » roofing material

Flat Roofing: Preventing Winter Damage in Commercial Roofs

Lukasz Sobczuk — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 15:08:50 +0000

Roof damage in the state of NJ is quite common during the winter months, and can be especially costly in commercial roofing.

While flat roofs are built to withstand a fair amount of snow, extreme ice buildup can cause structural damage if it is not properly handled. Some commercial roof repairs are inevitable, but there are ways to protect your flat roofing from the aftermath of heavy storms.

Common Flat Roofing Damage

The most common winter roofing problem is ice damming, which can do extreme damage to flat roofing and low-sloped roofs. As snow falls on your facility’s EPDM roof and warm air rises toward the ceiling and attic, the snow melts. When snowmelt runs toward gutters or low-sloped eaves, it refreezes and builds a dam. During continual freeze-thaw cycles, these ice dams become bigger and trap additional moisture on the roof. As water accumulates, your business or industrial facility can experience roof leaks that lead to expensive repairs.

In addition to ice damming, winter water buildup leads to gutter problems. Gutters become filled with ice, preventing proper drainage and putting undue pressure on the structure of your commercial gutter system. In extreme cases, you may need to replace damaged gutters or remove portions of the system to melt the ice and get rid of debris buildup.

Preventing Ice Dam and Gutter Damage

While it is not possible to prevent ice damming 100% of the time, commercial building owners can take steps to reduce flat roof damage.

First, make sure that your facility has adequate attic ventilation and insulation. A properly insulated attic prevents warm air from reaching the underside of the roof and beginning the vicious melt/refreeze process.
Next, clean and inspect gutters at least twice a year. The less leaf, twig and debris buildup, the more likely your gutter system can handle snow runoff rather than allowing moisture to pool.
Finally, as snow piles and ice dams begin to form on commercial roofing, it may be time to hire a roofing professional to remove some of the weight and mitigate damage. Climbing on snowy or ice roofs is dangerous work, and should only be done by professionals who are properly equipped.

To schedule your winter inspection of your commercial roof, or to request a roofing repair estimate for your facility, contact LGC roofing professionals today. With almost three decades of experience in residential and commercial roof repairs and replacement, we are NJ’s top experts on flat roofing and seasonal roof maintenance.

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Copper Roofing: Perfect Marriage of Beauty & Function

Lukasz Sobczuk — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 16:23:58 +0000

From elegant estates to industrial facilities, copper roofing supplies character and longevity that few other roofing materials can match.

Appreciated for its warm, rich color and weather-resistant durability, copper roofing is considered one of today’s most sought-after roofing materials—no matter what your building style.

Copper is not a new roofing phenomenon, as it is found on buildings that are centuries old. Popular in historic structures, this beautiful metal roofing material is valued for a variety of reasons.

Copper Roofing Advantages

Weather and climate resistance: Copper roofing is an enduring material that resists earthquakes, strong winds, record heat and more. In addition, copper roofing will protect your structure from flooding, and can withstand torrential storms and safeguard your building from leaks when properly installed. Because of its amazing durability, your NJ copper roof will last far longer than asphalt or shake shingles.
Unmatched aesthetics: Copper develops a “patina,” or blue-green color, as it weathers. When this rich patina mingles with the metal’s warm tones, the result is uniquely beautiful.
Innovative installation: Over the years, many tools have been developed to assist in the simple, efficient installation of copper roofing. While copper takes minimal surface preparation in most cases, it’s always best to have a NJ roofing contractor install your new roof.
Proven safety: Copper roofs are inflammable, supplying excellent resistance for homes and businesses in fire-prone areas.
Lightweight: With the installation of any NJ roofing material, there is always a risk of putting excess stress on your home or business structure. Fortunately, copper roofing is lightweight—making it an especially wise investment for areas facing heavy snowfall.

When married with its robust design, the beauty of copper roofing lends instant curb appeal to any structure—whether residential or commercial.

To learn more about copper roofing options for NJ home and business owners, schedule a consultation or speak with an expert NJ roofing contractor, call LGC Roofing at 609-712-8157 today.

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Hiring a Slate Roofing Contractor

Lukasz Sobczuk — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 15:40:37 +0000

Whether you are planning to put a new slate roof on your home or just repair your existing roof, choosing a roofing company is an important decision. Your roof is a major investment, and selecting a qualified, experienced roofer is vital since unpredictable and often-brutal East Coast winters can be devastating to poorly serviced slate roofs.

When you take into account that the majority of roofing costs come from labor, it becomes even more important to ensure you hire the right roofer for your home.

Hiring a Slate Roofing Contractor

Major considerations include (1) recommendations and research, (2) certifications and insurance, and (3) professionalism.

#1: Recommendations and Research

It can be difficult to find a New Jersey roofer you can trust, so begin the process with people you know. Talk to friends, neighbors, and coworkers about their past experiences—and ask for roofer recommendations. If you receive a positive referral, locate homes where the roofing company is working and drive by to check their work. You can tell a lot about your NJ slate roofing contractor by inspecting the care they take, not only in their roofing work, but also in how they treat a homeowner’s landscaping, driveway, and property.

Before hiring a roofer, you should also research their local reputation. The Better Business Bureau is an excellent resource for this research, since complaints against roofers are reported. In fact, thousands of complaints about roofers are filed with the BBB every year—more than any other industry. Over 2 million homeowners annually research roofer trustworthiness through the BBB.

#2: Certifications and Insurance

Before hiring any roofing company, make sure the company is properly licensed & insured. A reputable roofer should be able to provide you with their contractor license number and proof of liability and workers’ compensation insurance. For increased security and peace of mind, you can also check that your NJ slate roofer is bonded.

It’s also a good idea to vet your potential roofer through your insurance company before signing a contract. In addition to expediting payment, your insurer may have had previous experience with your roofer of choice, or may be able to provide a list of experienced roofers with whom they have worked.

#3: Professionalism

Be sure to hold potential roofers to the same standards of professionalism you would any other service provider. If a roofer is not professional enough to show up on time, appear neat and organized, and be respectful and courteous, do you want them working on a major piece of your home?

You should feel confident that the roofing contractor you select sees your home as more than just their “next project.” At a minimum, the roofer should meet timelines, take care with property and landscaping, and provide a written estimate and warranty. Any roofer that is slow to return phone calls, demands full payment in advance, or will not guarantee their work in writing is not a roofer that should get your business.

Call Today!

To schedule your slate roofing repair, restoration or new roof installation, discuss slate roofing options, or schedule a free estimate with NJ’s slate roofing experts, call or email LGC Roofing today.

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Metal Roofing Options for Residential Roofing

Lukasz Sobczuk — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 15:27:04 +0000

Metal roofing has always been a popular option for commercial facilities, warehouses and agricultural buildings, and it continues to grow more popular in residential roofing, as well.

Enjoyed for its look, versatility and durability, metal roofing is available in a wide range of colors, materials and styles. In fact, it is considered one of the most sought-after roofing choices on today’s market.

Metal roofing offers many benefits to those interested in alternatives to shingle. It is particularly cost effective for New Jersey homes, since it is made to endure both ends of the weather spectrum. During spring and summer, metal reflects the sun’s rays, lowering your utility bills. It also protects your NJ residential roof from high wind and hail damage. Many insurance companies offer discounts to homeowners who install metal roofs, since some metal roofing has been known to endure the impact of golf-ball-sized hail.

During NJ winter months, metal roofs are designed to insulate your home and withstand heavy snow loads. When installed with a proper slope, these roofs also shed snow efficiently—so there is little chance of ice damming or structural damage due to snow buildup.

Popular Metal Roofing Materials

Three common metal roofing options include copper, steel and aluminum. Each comes with many advantages, including energy efficiency, sustainability and improved home value. Depending upon your personal choice, they are an attractive, durable option for NJ residential roofs.

Copper Roofing: Copper roofing is a popular option for homeowners who appreciate the color change as their roof ages. Tarnishing from a yellow-brown sheen to a greenish gray “patina” over time, copper roofs are recyclable, lightweight and can last up to 100 years when installed by a qualified NJ roofing contractor.

Steel Roofing: New Jersey steel roofs come in a range of colors and textures, and are more affordable than copper styles. Like copper, steel roofs are lightweight—and rarely require your NJ roofer to reinforce the roof’s structure during installation. Steel roofs also have the highest fireproof rating (Class A), making them an attractive option that reduces insurance premiums.

Aluminum Roofing: Available in corrugated or smooth styles, aluminum is a lightweight, durable roofing choice. While steel is often painted to achieve the finished look, aluminum roofs are typically left unpainted. Aluminum usually costs more than steel because of its ability to naturally withstand corrosion.

To learn more about NJ metal roofing options, contact LGC Roofing today. Serving residential clients with NJ roofing replacement, repair and maintenance, we supply free estimates, unmatched service and high-performance roofing solutions for all homes and budgets.

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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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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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Cedar Shake Roofing Installation Project in Lebanon, NJ

Lukasz Sobczuk — Tue, 08 Nov 2011 14:44:47 +0000

Few weeks ago a homeowner from Lebanon, NJ, contacted us regarding her leaking cedar shake roof.

Upon inspection of the roof we discovered that the roof had several substantial leaks and was in very poor condition. We both knew repairs were futile so we started looking into re-roofing options right away.

Like many roofing contractors, LGC Roofing will always suggest the most viable options and if repairs can extend the life of your roof, that’s what we’ll advise. But if your roof leaks, is showing signs of weather damage, or is looking worse for wear, it makes more sense to replace it.

Cedar Shake Roofing Installation Project

The homeowners wanted to retain the original look of the roof and house in general so we’ve offered an estimate for cedar shake medium hand splits roofing installation and soon started the project!

Wood shake roofs are undeniably beautiful and we definitely take pleasure in working with this roofing material!

Considering Cedar Shake Roofing For Your Home?

If you’re thinking about using wood shake shingle roofing on your NJ home, make sure you select a quality product. The best shakes are made from the center of huge, aged cedar trees—and are manufactured by companies who insist upon quality in their shake mills.

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

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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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6 Steps to Handling Shingle Roofing Replacement

Lukasz Sobczuk — Tue, 18 Oct 2011 15:02:35 +0000

If you have asphalt shingles on your roof, it’s inevitable that they’ll need eventual replacement.

Signs that your roof shingles are nearing the end of their life include interior and exterior water marks, algae growth, and missing, warped, blistered or cracked shingles.

6 Steps to Handling Shingle Roofing Replacement

Choosing professional NJ shingle roofing installation contractor ensures your new roof will withstand the punishing, year-round Garden State elements.

With that in mind, here is a six-step process to follow when shingle replacement time comes:

Check for underlying structural damage. If your shingles have become so worn that your roof has suffered structural weather-related damage, you will have to repair this before you replace your shingles. Otherwise, you’ll simply mask the problem, rather than solving it.
Set your project budget. It is very important that you avoid exceeding your maximum budget, as home repairs are notorious for growing and growing and growing until you wind up spending thousands more than you initially intended. Decide on a budget and stick to it, though you should keep in mind that some contractors offer flexible payment terms. If cash is a concern, consider working with your roofing contractor or bank to finance your project over a period of time.
Choose your roofing material. Your budget will, to a large extent, determine which options in roofing materials are available to you, but in broad terms, you can choose from tile, asphalt shingles, slate shingles—or eco-friendly, energy-saving metal roofing options.
Find a reputable contractor. Choosing an experienced roofing contractor who happily provides references and offers a high degree of transparency throughout the process is essential to getting your money’s worth.
Get an estimate in writing. Your contractor should never quote a price before coming to view your home in person. Get the estimate in writing as a means of protecting yourself against surprises down the road.
Maintain your new roofing. Now that you’ve invested in a new roof, be sure to maintain it properly according to your manufacturer’s recommended guidelines for the roofing material you’ve selected. If you’re unsure of what type of maintenance is involved, talk with a qualified roofing contractor about service and repairs.

Need Shingle Roofing Replacement?

LGC Roofing is proud of the statewide reputation we’ve built as a reliable company that does excellent roofing replacement in NJ for a fair price. You can visit our project gallery to view samples of our work, or call to arrange a no-obligation roofing replacement estimate for your next roofing project!