Over the years, your home will likely undergo a fair amount of wear and tear. Minor fixes and regular maintenance are the best ways to ensure your home remains beautiful for many years to come. Certain elements of your home will likely require far more maintenance than others—a metal roof, for instance, will require far less maintenance during the course of its life than other features in your home will. You won’t need to replace a metal roof for several decades, but you should still give it a bit of TLC from time to time. This guide explores the importance of maintaining your metal roof and how doing so can improve the overall style and structure of your home.
Integrity
The main function of your roof is to protect your home against the elements. As such, the main importance of maintaining your metal roof is to ensure it can continue to function as needed no matter what type of weather comes your way. Metal roofs are very durable, so they can withstand very heavy rains and winds, but you should still assess your roof for signs of damage following particularly brutal storms. Conducting a small amount of routine maintenance once a year ensures that you can nip any minor issues in the bud immediately. This enables your roof to maintain its structural integrity for many years and ensures it will be able to weather whatever storms come its way in the future.
Longevity
Metal roofs can last upwards of 40 years. When maintained properly, they can last even longer and even maintain their structural integrity for up to 70 years. Unlike shingled roofs, which may require significant repairs and maintenance on a yearly basis, metal roofs require minimal upkeep each year. A quick annual once-over will ensure the roof is in good working condition—this is generally all it takes to maintain a metal roof. This yearly visual assessment is very simple and takes little time to complete, yet it will ensure your metal roof maintains its structure and durability for many years to come.
Appearance
Asphalt, tile, and wooden shingles can easily break, loosen, or fall off altogether, giving the entire house a rather unattractive appearance. Metal roofs, on the other hand, maintain their same beautiful shine for many years after the initial installation. Metal roofs are coated with a resin-based finish that keeps out moisture and mold. The roof is therefore able to maintain its luster, and it will never dull or discolor through the years. Maintaining your metal roof will further protect its overall appearance. In specific situations, a simple rinsing with a diluted detergent periodically will wash away any residual dirt or grime that cannot be washed away with natural rain, allowing the roof to display its color and shine.
To further discuss the benefits of metal roofing or to schedule an installation on your own home, contact our team at Distinctive Metal Roofing. Our team provides metal roofing throughout Ohio and Western Pennsylvania.
As the green initiative continues to grow, more and more homeowners are beginning to implement measures that will make their homes more environmentally friendly. There are many ways to join the fight toward a more sustainable and eco-friendly future, some of which you can do from the comfort of your own home. Even changes that may seem quite small play a large part in creating a more environmentally conscious society. This guide explores several eco-friendly home improvement projects that can help you join the initiative toward a greener future.
Install metal roofing
One of the larger and more impactful changes you can make toward a more environmentally friendly lifestyle is installing metal roofing in your home. Metal roofing is one of the most sustainable roofing options for several reasons. First, it is highly energy efficient. Metal roofs are coated with a Kynar 500 resin finish, which helps reflect sunlight and heat, thereby reducing indoor temperatures and energy costs significantly. This type of resin coating keeps your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Bearing an EnergyStar certification, Kynar 500 coating maintains a lower energy output year-round. Because metal roofing is composed mainly of recycled materials, you can also recycle it in full at the end of its lifespan. As metal roofing can last upwards of 60 years, the amount of waste it creates is significantly less than other roofing materials. For more information or to install your own metal roofing in Cleveland and the surrounding areas, contact our team at Distinctive Metal Roofing.
Opt for low-flow faucets
Many homeowners shy away from low-flow faucets because they believe they diminish water pressure and quality. With modern models, however, this is no longer the case. Low-flow faucets, showerheads, and toilets can provide the same intense water pressure while significantly cutting down water usage. Decreasing your household water usage conserves one of our most precious natural resources while also benefiting your bank account. Because low-flow faucets use less water, they also require less energy to operate, making such fixtures both energy efficient and cost effective.
Choose energy-efficient appliances
As with low-flow faucets, installing energy-efficient appliances is a very practical and accessible way for homeowners to go green. Energy-efficient appliances can come in many shapes and sizes, from refrigerators to air conditioning units to computers. These appliances utilize a fraction of the energy of other appliances without sacrificing quality or efficiency. When choosing energy-efficient appliances, be on the lookout for products with an EnergyStar certification. These products offer a reduced energy output at the same great price and quality as less efficient models.
Give new life to old furniture
Renovating old furniture is a great way to give new life to old items while also reducing the amount of waste you contribute to landfills. Salvaging older items from antique or secondhand stores is a far more sustainable practice than purchasing brand new furniture from large retailers. Though it may take a bit of elbow grease to restore such items to their former glory, the effort will pay off in the long run. In many cases, older furniture is far more durable and better constructed than new items. As a result, it will maintain its integrity far longer and will need less frequent replacement.
Utilize recycled building materials
Reclaimed wood and bamboo flooring have become increasingly popular interior design trends in recent years—and with good reason. Not only are these building materials appealing to the eye, but they are also a very eco-friendly alternative to more traditional materials. Certain types of traditional wood flooring come from the forests of South America. The manufacturing of these flooring materials plays a large role in the deforestation of rainforests around the world. Reclaimed wood, however, utilizes only recycled materials and is, therefore, a much more environmentally conscious option. Reclaimed wood is useful in flooring, countertops, and even paneling on walls. Bamboo flooring is another popular, eco-friendly building material. Bamboo grows very quickly, and many horticulturalists believe that the regular harvesting of bamboo can actually help improve growing conditions.
Pick low VOC paints
Perhaps the simplest eco-friendly home renovation project you can undertake is repainting your home using low VOC paints. VOC stands for volatile organic chemicals. Common chemicals found in traditional paints may include fungicides or biocides, which increase the shelf life of the product. These chemicals can yield both long- and short-term health effects for the residents of your home and can also contribute to elevated air pollution levels. Repainting your home’s interior with low VOC paints creates a safer living space for your family and has less adverse effects on the environment as a whole. Paints certified by Greenguard Environmental Institute or labeled as organic and low VOC are the safest and most environmentally friendly options.
Supplement power with clean energy sources
Thanks to recent technological advancements, supplementing your home’s power with clean energy sources is now easier and more accessible than ever before. The most popular source for clean energy in residential homes is solar power. Solar panels are compatible with almost any home and can significantly reduce a home’s energy output. Unlike other forms of energy, solar panels do not produce any air pollution. They provide entirely clean energy and are even recyclable at the end of their long lifespan. Another popular energy option for residential buildings is wind power. This type of clean energy is slightly more common in rural areas but can yield impressive benefits for homeowners everywhere. Like solar power, wind energy utilizes a renewable resource to provide entirely clean energy that does not produce any harmful byproducts. These two types of clean energy sources are very effective and, in some cases, can replace traditional power sources entirely. Bear in mind, of course, that weather conditions can affect the efficiency of both wind and solar power. Solar power is most effective in areas that receive a significant amount of daily sunlight and may not be as beneficial in rainier locales.
Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements. A light drizzle or dusting of snow may not be much to worry about, but sometimes Mother Nature has something a bit stronger up her sleeve. In instances where your home faces a severe shift in weather, you want to ensure your family and your belongings are well-protected. A metal roof is the best way to do this, as it offers longer-lasting and more reliable protection than many other roofing styles. This guide explores how metal roofs prevent against extreme weather in a variety of different scenarios.
Sudden storms
The most common example of how metal roofs prevent against extreme weather is in the case of severe storms. When faced with torrential downpours and electrical storms, many other roofing materials will become damaged or compromised in at least some small way. A roof with asphalt or tile shingles may lose several shingles during the course of the storm. Metal roofs, however, are far more durable and can withstand heavy rain with ease. Additionally, water and rain slide off metal roofs far more easily than off asphalt roofs. This decreases the likelihood of standing water after a storm has ended, which in turn reduces the risk of leaks and lasting water damage on the roof. Metal roofs are also much more durable in the face of hailstorms and freezing rain. They’re much more resistant to ice, and they won’t become dented or damaged as easily as some other roofing materials.
Extreme winds
Strong winds can spell serious trouble for roofs with asphalt or tile shingles. Depending on the pitch of the roof, wind can easily slip beneath the shingles and pull them away from the roof completely. The more loose or missing shingles a roof has, the greater the risk of water or ice damage becomes. Metal roofing presents far less potential for lift and can withstand 100-mph winds in some cases. For even greater protection against strong winds, many homeowners opt for standing seam metal roofing instead of traditional shingles. This style is particularly beneficial for climates that regularly experience tornados or hurricanes, as it can withstand even stronger winds. To install a standing seam metal roof in Pittsburgh or the surrounding areas, contact our team at Distinctive Metal Roofing.
Drastic temperature changes
Extreme weather isn’t always so easily visible. Sometimes extreme weather comes in the form of drastic temperature changes, either in the form of sweltering heat or subzero cold. Unlike other roofing materials that may absorb heat—such as asphalt, tile, and wood—metal roofs reflect heat. This maintains a cooler internal temperature throughout your home, even when the temperature outside reaches scorching heights. This heat reflection also protects against extreme cold. Snow and ice melt more quickly from metal roofs and slide off the roof much more easily than with other roofing materials. This decreases the risk of snow and ice damage during the winter and helps the home retain its internal temperature.
Metal roofs are the perfect options for homeowners who want roofs that look great but that don’t require a significant amount of maintenance and upkeep each year. Metal roofs do require significantly less maintenance than most other roofing materials, but you must still take some measures to ensure your roof continues to look brand-new throughout the course of its life. The following guide to proper maintenance for your roof outlines a few different tactics you can use to ensure the continued beauty and integrity of your metal roof.
Clean out gutters
One of the best tactics to ensure proper maintenance of your roof is to clean your gutters on a regular basis. Clogged gutters may not seem like a major issue at first glance, but over time, they can spell serious damage for even the toughest roofs. Clogged gutters can cause large puddles of standing water if not tended to. This standing water can cause several issues for roofs, including leaks, cracks, and mold. Standing water can also lead to premature corrosion in some metal roofs. Cleaning out your gutters regularly and installing a metal roof gutter system is the best way to prevent these potential damages. You should clean your gutters at the beginning of spring and at the end of autumn, as this is when leaves and twigs are most likely to clog the system.
Trim nearby trees
Poorly maintained landscaping can quickly damage even the most durable of roofs. Take the time each spring to trim errant branches away from your metal roof. These branches can scratch or dent the roof, and they can become particularly harmful in areas that receive strong winds and heavy spring storms. When trimming your trees, try to do so without standing on the roof—oing so could dent or damage the roof more than the errant tree branches will. Metal roofs are incredibly strong and durable, but they’re not designed to withstand the weight of an adult for an extended period of time.
Regularly inspect sealants
Most sealants are designed to last the entirety of a metal roof’s lifespan. However, in areas where extreme weather is common, this may not always be the case. As such, it may be in your best interests to regularly inspect the roof sealants for any signs of damage or leaks. You only have to perform this inspection once a year, as the sealants for metal roofs are generally as durable as the roof itself.
Whether you’re renovating your existing home or building your dream house, it’s important to choose a roof that is long-lasting and will protect your family. Below are just a few benefits of standing seam metal roofing and how it can improve your home’s overall style and stability.
Increased durability
Like other metal roofing styles, standing seam metal roofs are highly durable and long-lasting. The design of this roofing style, with seams that run vertically across the roof rather than horizontally, reinforce the roof’s weakest points and reduce the risk of leakage. Standing seams, which rise slightly above the roof for added support, further reinforce these weak points. Manufacturers construct standing seam metal roofs with long, metal panels rather than standard shingles. Panels snap together at the seam creating one monolithic surface covering the entire home. When considering a standing seam roof, take a close look at how the seam is structured. A solid, well formed seam will snap and lock together, making it impervious to rain and snow. As such, they’re better able to withstand strong winds and are at a reduced risk of roof uplift. Standing seam metal roofing can withstand many different weather conditions. It lasts longer than traditional asphalt shingles and retains its color and structural integrity for 40 years or more.
Reduced risk of leaks
Metal roofs protect against many kinds of extreme weather. Unlike traditional asphalt shingles, contractors install standing seam metal roofing in continuous panels. The structure of these continuous panels allows for fewer weak spots and potential water entry points, effectively reducing the risk of water damage in your roof. Standing seam metal roofing further protects your home from rain and snow damage thanks to its unique interlocking design. As mentioned earlier, each panel fastens together to form a continuous snap-lock system. This creates an uninterrupted surface that can withstand heavy rain and strong winds. Additionally, the vertical design of standing seam roofs allows rain and snow to easily slide off. This reduces the potential for standing water that may cause severe leaks in your roof.
Low maintenance
Asphalt shingle roofs last a maximum of 20 years and may require continuous maintenance and repairs during that time. Standing seam metal roofing, however, is an extremely low maintenance roofing option. It requires little upkeep and will sustain its beauty for many years to come. Coated with a long-lasting Kynar resin-based finish, standing seam metal roofs are resistant to staining and streaking—you will never need to clean it. This roofing style is also resistant to fade and chalk, ensuring that your roof maintains its beautifully vibrant colors for the entirety of its long life. Additionally, the continuous metal panels eliminate the need to replace damaged shingles that comes with asphalt shingle roofs.
Unique design
In addition to the many practical benefits of standing seam metal roofing, this roofing style is also quite stylish and adds a unique design element to your home. Standing seam metal roofing is available in a wide variety of weather-resistant colors that will perfectly complement your home’s design aesthetic. The continuous panels and vertical lines of standing seam metal roofing highlight the hips and valleys of your roof. Further, the concealed fasteners of the interlocking seam system allow for a clean and tailored look. The understated design of this roofing style adds a subtle touch of beauty to your home. It will perfectly complement a variety of building materials, helping your home stand out in your neighborhood. Just make sure you know what to look for in standing seam metal roofing.
If you’re interested in updating your home with a beautiful and dependable standing seam metal roof in Pittsburgh or the surrounding area, contact our team. Our experts at Distinctive Metal Roofing will be happy to answer your questions regarding standing seam metal roofing and attend to all your roofing needs.
Environmental concerns have grown increasingly prevalent in recent years. Many people are making changes toward a greener lifestyle, and you can too. Below are three environmental benefits of metal roofing to show you how making the switch can help you lead a more eco-friendly life.
Energy Efficient
Not only are metal roofs eye-catching and aesthetically pleasing, they are also a big part of designing anenergy efficient home. Our metal roofs are finished with a high-quality Kynar 500 coating. Due to the reflective nature of Kynar coating, metal roofing can greatly reduce indoor house temperatures and lower energy costs. Not only does Kynar coating reduce energy costs, but the resin-based finish retains its color over the years and it’s resistant to fading or chalking. Certified by EnergyStar, our metal roofs with Kynar coating will keep your home cool in the summer and reduce energy costs year-round.
Recycled and Recyclable
Depending on the material used, metal roofs may contain 25 to 95% of recycled materials. Using recycled materials greatly reduces the amount of waste that ends up in a landfill. Additionally, at the end of their long life, metal roofs are completely recyclable. While most asphalt roofs eventually end up in a landfill, metal roofs can be melted down and repurposed over and over again, which makes it a very eco-friendly option for homeowners.
Long Lasting
Overflowing landfills are an increasing concern in our country, and asphalt roofs only add to the issue. Metal roofs, however, do not contribute to our waste problem. In addition to being 100% recyclable, metal roofs can last up to 60 years. Asphalt roofs, however, typically only last between 15 and 20 years and may require significant repairs during that time. The frequent repairs and replacement of asphalt roofs only adds to the amount of waste in landfills. Metal roofs have a long lifespan, so they do not need to be replaced as often as asphalt roofs. They are also highly durable—even in extreme weather conditions—and will not need repairs as frequently as other roofs might. The longevity of metal roofs, paired with their recyclability, produce little to no waste.
The environmental benefits of metal roofing listed above are just a few of the reasons so many homeowners are switching to metal roofs. If you want to give your home an eco-friendly update with metal roofing in Cleveland or the surrounding area, give us a call. Our team of experienced professionals are happy to help you go green.
Your home should be as beautiful on the outside as it is on the inside. Whether you’re looking to spruce up your house for potential buyers or want your home to be the highlight of the neighborhood, these four ways to improve curb appeal will make your house the talk of the town.
Replace your roof
Roofpedia reported that “The average home is approximately 30 squares, meaning that their roof is 3,000 square feet.” Since the roof is such a large part of the house, it plays a big part in your home’s overall curb appeal. As such, replacing your roof will impress your neighbors and can even add to your home’s resale value. In addition to improving curb appeal, a new roof will better protect your home from bad weather. For a more modern and eco-friendly option, consider installing a metal roof. Request an estimate with our metal roofing contractors in Pittsburgh, PA, to learn why metal roofing is one of the best ways to improve curb appeal.
Add greenery
Give your home new life and plant some foliage around your front lawn. Seasonal plants and flowers will bring a pop of color to your home and are a great way to increase curb appeal. Be sure to regularly maintain your greenery by weeding, raking leaves, and regularly mowing the lawn. If you don’t have much of a green thumb, don’t worry. Even adding one planter and occasionally trimming your trees can have a big impact on your home’s curb appeal.
Decorate your front door
Welcome guests to your home and make a great first impression by sprucing up your front door with new paint and decorations. Freshening up the paint on your front door will make your home look cleaner overall and will impress all your neighbors. You can even show a bit of your personal style by painting the door a fun shade and giving your home a pop of color. Additionally, you can add decorative wreaths and flags when looking to increase curb appeal even further.
Update hardware
This may seem like a small, insignificant renovation, but updating the hardware on your home is a great way to increase curb appeal. Replace door handles, polish off your house numbers, and update sconces and light fixtures to bring your home out of the shadows and into the spotlight. These little updates will make a big difference and will impress neighbors far and wide.
Every design decision is important when it comes to building your dream home. From the interior paint colors to the foliage in your front yard to the style of your roof, every detail matters. Whether you’re building your dream home from the ground up or renovating an old house, there are many factors you’ll need to consider when choosing a roof style. Below are four different types of roofing styles that are popular in the United States, along with the advantages and disadvantages of each. This guide will help you choose the design that’s best for your home.
Gable roofs
One of the most popular roof styles in the United States, you may also know of gable roofs as pitched or peaked roofs. These roofs have two sides that slope up, coming together at the top to form a ridge. You can easily recognize them by their triangular shape. Gabled roofs can take many forms, but most homes with this roof style opt for open gable or box gable. Though they appear on many different houses, this roof style is highly popular among ranch-style and Cape Cod-style homes. This roof style is so recognizable, in fact, that is has inspired several well-known pieces of literature, including Anne of Green Gables and The House of the Seven Gables.
Pros
Gable roofs are very popular and with good reason. Due to the steeper slope, this roof can easily shed both water and snow, making them perfect for areas that experience heavy rainfall or brutal winters. The snow and rain will easily slide off the roof, lessening the chances of leaks and water damage. Due to their rather simple design, gable roofs are often less expensive than other roof styles. The initial construction cost is lower, and because of the steep slope and reduced risk of water damage, you won’t have to worry about maintenance costs in the future. Additionally, gable roofs provide a bit more space, which homeowners can use as additional attic space or convert into a loft or extra bedroom.
Cons
Though this roof style is ideal for areas with heavy rain and snowfall, contractors do not recommend gable roofs for areas that experience high winds or hurricanes. Gable roofs tend to have a slight overhang from the face of the house that, in areas with high wind, may cause the roof to peel away. Due to their construction, gable roofs also pose the threat of collapsing. If builders do not construct the frame of the roof using sturdy supports, it may run the risk of caving in.
Suggested materials
Gable roofs are very versatile and will work well with almost any roofing material. Asphalt shingles or concrete tiles are a popular choice for this style, but metal roofing is also an option. Metal is becoming more popular because it’s more eco-friendly and durable than other roofing materials. When choosing your roof style and materials, you may also need to consider the pitch of your roof. Since the slope of a gabled roof tends to be steeper than the other styles, a larger portion of the roof becomes more visible—this plays a significant role in your home’s overall appearance. Asphalt is a popular low-cost solution but has an average life span of only 13 to 20 years. Plus, it will begin to show significant age and streaking within the first 10 years. A quality metal roof, however, will last 60 years or more and maintain its color and beauty for the duration of its lifespan. Additionally, a quality metal roof is interlocking on all sides and will be able to withstand up to 120 mph winds, greatly reducing the risk of wind damage.
Hip roof
Another popular roof style in the U.S. is the hip roof. Somewhat similar to the gable roof, hip roofs consist of slopes that form a ridge along the top. Unlike gable roofs, however, hip roofs consist of four slopes instead of two. The pitch of the slope can vary from home to home as well as the size of the ridge. In some homes, the slopes all meet in a point on top of the roof, similar to the shape of a pyramid. In others, the roof may consist of several ridges, often referred to as the hips and valleys of a roof. A great way to utilize the ridges of a hip roof is by installing a ridge vent. This efficient and cost-effective addition will ensure that your attic is properly ventilated. A ridge vent helps your home become more energy-efficient and allows your air conditioner to work much easier.
Pros
Hip roofs are typically more stable than gable roofs because they consist of four slopes rather than two. Since they are a bit sturdier, these roofs are a better choice for areas that experience high wind. Like gable roofs, the slope allows water and snow to easily slide off the roof, leaving little to no standing water. This greatly reduces the possibility of water damage and leaks.
Cons
Because hip roofs consist of four slopes instead of two, the construction cost for this roof style can be a bit higher than for gable roofs. This style of roof consists of a complex system of trusses and rafters, which may lead to a longer construction period. Hip roofs also require more building materials. Between the cost of labor and materials, the price can begin to add up quickly.
Suggested materials
Similar to gable roofs, hip roofs work well with most roofing materials. Shingles and tiles are popular for this roof style, as are slate and metal. Hip roofs may have a shallower pitch than other roofing styles so a standing seam metal roof, in which the seam is vertical rather than horizontal, may be a good choice, as it allows rain and snow to slide off even easier.
Mansard roof
Popular in European architecture, Mansard roofs are four-sided roofs in which each side consists of two slopes at different pitches. The lower slopes are at a steeper pitch than the upper ones and often adorned with dormer windows. Similar to hip roofs, the upper slopes of mansard roofs come together to form a ridge. Also known as a French roof, this style appears atop notable French landmarks, including the Château de Dampierre and parts of the Louvre.
Pros
Mansard roofs are a great option for homeowners looking to add a little extra space to their home. This double sloped style can increase the amount of interior space in your attic or allow for another story to your home without requiring much additional masonry. If you choose not to add an attic or extra floor, you can use mansard roofs to create higher, vaulted ceilings. Mansard roofs also lend themselves to additional decorations, such as elaborate dormer windows.
Cons
Due to the double-sloped architecture and relatively gentle slope of mansard roofs, this style is not ideal for areas that receive heavy snow. The snow does not slide off as easily as with hip and gable roofs, which can lead to leaks and may even cause the roof to buckle. Mansard roofs are also more costly than other styles and the installation process tends to be longer. Since many mansard roofs also include additions and embellishments, the installation may take some time and the cost of labor may be higher.
Suggested materials
Homeowners who choose mansard roofs often choose the unique design as a way to stand out from their neighbors. As such, they may choose an equally unique roofing material, such as slate shingles in a diamond pattern or shiny copper metal roofing. Metal roofing is a great option for this roof style. The smoothness of the metal allows snow to easily slide off the roof. Additionally, metal roofing comes in a variety of styles that will help your home stand out from the crowd. Most roofing materials will work well for this roof style, but homeowners should stay away from overlapping composition shingles.
Gambrel roof
Gambrel roofs are similar in construction to mansard roofs, with double-sloped sides; however, this style only covers two sides of the home, whereas mansard roofs cover four. Gambrel roofs are the top choice for barn roofs in the United States, but they are also common in Dutch Colonial style houses.
Pros
Like mansard roofs, gambrel roofs allow additional space for an extra floor or garret. It’s for this reason that gambrel roofs are so popular among barns and sheds. They can provide additional storage without taking up any additional space. You can also easily convert the space from mansard roofs into an attic, as well.
Cons
Contractors construct gambrel roofs with a rather open design, making them slightly more susceptible to collapse. Similar to mansard roofs, this style is not ideal for areas that receive heavy snow and rainfall, as the extreme pressure of these elements can cause the roof to buckle. Areas that experience strong winds or hurricanes should also avoid this style since the roof only covers two sides of the home. This makes it easier for the roof to peel away from the house. For those with gambrel roofs, you should have them inspected yearly. It’s important to note that the costs for these inspections and subsequent maintenance can add up over time.
Suggested materials
Wood and slate shingles are particularly common for gambrel roofs, but almost any material will do. Metal shingles or panels, however, are one of the best materials for gambrel roofs due to their durability and longevity. Metal roofs can last upwards of 40 years and require less maintenance than other roofing materials, making them a great choice for gambrel roofs. A highly durable material like metal will lessen the risk of weather damage and decrease the cost of maintenance over time.
Choosing the style of your dream home’s roof can be daunting and, as we’ve seen above, there are many factors to consider. Some roofing styles fit better with certain architecture styles but ultimately the choice will come down to personal taste.
Distinctive Metal Roofing offers metal roofs in various colors which we can apply to many different types of roofing styles. Whether you choose an ornately embellished mansard roof or a more practical hip roof, our Ohio metal roofing professionals can help you make your dream home into a reality.
Having attended recent home and garden shows while posing as a potential customer to the very few companies that did metal roofing as part of their business, I learned that potential metal roofing buyers are bombarded with a wealth of misinformation. From the inaccurate statement that “metal roofing is noisy” to warranty claims that don’t match those of the manufacturer, homeowners walk away not knowing that the information they’ve been given is simply not accurate.
But why?
The interesting fact is that some companies that do metal roofing as a small part of their larger asphalt roofing business are looking to erase metal roofing from your mind any way they can. Why, you ask, would these companies talk down about metal roofing? The answers are simple:
Metal roofing requires skill sets typical asphalt roofers don’t possess. Asphalt teams often consist of pick-up subcontractors who haven’t worked together before but know how to do asphalt roofing. If a company attempted to install metal roofing using the same methods they use to install asphalt roofing, the job wouldn’t be done properly and they’d lose money because it took much longer than it should have which would ultimately force them out of the business of metal roofing.
Asphalt roofers have the old school mentality that they want repeat business from you. They want to be your “favorite roofer” for many years to come. We want to be your favorite metal roofer for years to come as well, but we know we are unlikely to see you again because you won’t need us for anything. Our roofs are permanent “last roofs that you’ll ever buy” that last for more than 60 years. While we hope to see you again, it won’t be because you need a metal roof again.
Ask the right questions…
So, as with all consumer transactions, “buyer beware” applies heavily to roofing contractors. Ask the right questions such as the following:
What warranty do you offer on your workmanship and what does the manufacturer offer on their product?
Is your crew solely dedicated to metal roofing or are they pick up teams that haven’t necessarily installed a metal roof before?
When you talk with us at Distinctive Metal Roofing, you’ll realize you’re working with metal roofing experts. We do what we say, when we say and we’ll always give you honest, factual answers. We promise!
Two things that never end well when it comes to metal roofing are cheap prices and little research. As painstaking as it may seem, doing extensive research on a metal roofing contractor before you hire them is one of the most important steps in having a metal roof installed, especially since they’ll be installing one of the most important aspects of your house. Read reviews, ask around for referrals, and never choose a contractor just because they offer a cheaper price. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is, and you’ll probably end up paying what you saved on repairs for a poorly installed roof. For a job well done, and peace of mind, be sure to do your research.
Some things to keep in mind while doing your research is that the best roofing contractors usually aren’t available tomorrow or next week because they are in demand. They’re also not the cheapest because they know they’re giving you your moneys’ worth. They’ll be highly regarded on review sites, and a lot of their business comes from past customers who refer their friends and relatives to them.
Speaking of referrals, manufacturers are great places to start, as most know the integrity and expertise of the metal roofing contractors they work with. In some cases, a manufacturer will carefully interview potential contractors before offering the product to them for resale (and installation). Carefully selecting quality contractors is a way for the manufacturer to control the quality of the installation in the field and enhance the value of their product in the marketplace. After all, if something goes terribly wrong with a job and a homeowner can’t get a response from the contractor, they usually turn to the material manufacturer in hopes of resolution. Material manufacturers are usually brutally honest and will not recommend a contractor they have had problems with.
Asking friends and family members about their experience with a roofing contractor can be a great way to find good companies to work with. Be sure to read review pages (Houzz, Better Business Bureau, and Angie’s List are great resources) to find reliable contractors who will work for you. Finding a reliable roofing contractor online is possible, but online reviews are no substitute for meeting with a contractor in person. Interviews are an important way to get to know the contractor. Prior to the interview, go through their website and read reviews of them online. What do you like about their work? Once they start the job, do they see the job through before going to the next job? Make sure you use this time to have the roofing contractor address your concerns and let them tell you what they can provide for you. When making a large investment in your home, you want someone who listens to and understands your needs while also delivering a quality service. To help narrow down your choices, ask the roofing contractor for references. A reputable roofing company will have a long list of completed roofs, allowing you to drive by the home to actually see their work.
Distinctive Metal Roofing is proud to be the best roofing contractor in the greater Cleveland, OH, and Pittsburgh, PA, areas. Just listen to what our happy customers have to say!
