Category: News

From social media to streaming platforms and beyond, internet connection gives us the key to a wide range of activities. Plus, Wi-Fi and cell phone service aren’t just for entertainment; many people rely on computers and phones to work from home, which has certainly become a widespread working condition in the last year.

Metal roofing has many benefits, such as energy efficiency, durability, and a lifespan of at least 60 years. Despite these benefits, homeowners might understandably ask the question, “Do metal roofs affect Wi-Fi and cell phone service?” This guide will answer this question because whether you own a metal roof or you’re considering one, understanding how they affect devices is crucial.

Wi-Fi Woes

If your internet service is provided by a cable service or satellite dish, a metal roof will not have any impact on your Wi-Fi signal within your home. In these situations, the signal is captured outside your home and is transmitted inside your home through a cable, which connects to your modem and router located inside your home. If the signal coming into your home is weak, your local cable or satellite provider and test and adjust the strength and quality of the signal coming into your home. Once the signal is received, the strength and coverage of your Wi-Fi signal is also dependent upon the quality of your modem and router. There are other factors that may impact the quality of your internet connection, for example, cable connectors, router settings, the size of your home, the placement of the router, etc., but the good news is a metal roof will have no impact on the quality of your internet signal if it is received through a cable company or satellite dish. Be sure to contact your local cable or satellite dish provider to assist with resolving the problem.

The Cell Phone Situation

Have you ever received a call while shopping at Walmart, or made a call from a large four-story building? These buildings use a considerable amount of steel above and around to support the structures, and most likely, you were able to talk or send and receive messages over your phone. This is because the cell phone coverage and the strength of the signal is very good. If you can use your cell phone in these situations, you will not have any problems when a metal roof is installed on your home. A metal roof on your home is a fraction of the amount of steel that is used for large structures. To verify, stand outside your home and take a look at your cell phone and verify the strength of the signal. If you are averaging 1 or 2 bars (out of 5 bars), the cell phone coverage in your area is poor. If this is the case, a metal roof may have an impact on your signal and have some impact on the strength of your signal. If you are receiving 3 bars or more, the signal is good, and you should have no issues with making or receiving calls or messages from inside your home. The biggest determining factor is your cell phone signal without the metal roof.

If you happen to live in an area with poor cell phone coverage, the good news is that most new cell phones have the capability to connect to the internet, providing you a strong, clear signal for your cell phone to use. Talk to your local cell phone provider for assistance in enabling this feature on your cell phone.

So, do metal roofs affect Wi-Fi and cell phone service? A Wi-Fi signal is dependent upon the signal provided by your cable or satellite service, the size and configuration of your home, and the quality and setup of the modem and router inside your home. Metal roofing can have some impact on a cell phone signal if the cell phone coverage in your area is weak. However, if you generally have a strong cell phone signal around your house (3 bars or more), the addition of a metal roof will have little effect on your ability to make calls or send and receive text messages. As we adjust to the “new normal”, you can enjoy the beauty and benefits of metal roofing materials like KasselWood steel shingles without worrying about them interrupting calls, Zoom meetings, or Netflix shows.

Turning a house into a home is no easy task, and the effort becomes even more challenging when you’re building an entire home from the ground up. There are many elements you must consider when building and designing your forever home. You must not only design a home that fits your current needs and lifestyle, but also ensure that those design choices will continue to stand the test of time for many years to come. Whether you’re starting from scratch or customizing an established home, these tips for designing your forever home will ensure your humble abode is well-decorated and expertly arranged.

Work from the ground up

One of the most important tips for designing your forever home is to work from the ground up. Your house will only be as strong as its foundation, so it’s crucial that you begin working on the larger construction elements before delving into more intricate design details. When constructing the shell of your home, be sure to consider durability and longevity. Choose materials that will easily withstand the test of time and maintain their integrity through years of windy winters and stormy springs.

Start with a sturdy foundation that’s well-suited to your particular climate. This is particularly important if you live in an area that experiences frequent earthquakes, floods, or hurricanes. As you work your way up, be sure to consider siding, windows, and doors that will withstand whatever the weather throws their way. Finally, be sure to consider the style, shape, and material of your roof. When you’re building a forever home, it’s in your best interests to choose materials that will require little maintenance over the years. Metal roofing is therefore the best option for a forever home. This type of roofing requires little maintenance and upkeep, and it will maintain its beauty and integrity for upwards of 40 years. For metal roofing contractors in Pittsburgh, PA, and the surrounding areas, contact our team at Distinctive Metal Roofing.

Leave room to grow

As we stated, your forever home needs to accommodate not only your current lifestyle, but also your future needs. As such, it’s important that you leave a little room to grow when you’re designing your home. This is especially important for individuals looking to raise families in their forever homes. Be sure to allocate enough bedrooms and livable space when developing the floor plan. Not allowing enough room to grow could lead to the need for further additions in the future, which can be quite costly.

When planning for the future, be sure to also consider accessibility. As you and your family members age, you may not want to trek up and down stairs every day. Consider these changing needs when developing your floor plan, and consider placing the master bedroom on the ground floor of your home instead.

Steer clear of trends

Forever homes are all about longevity. Certain design trends may be at the height of fashion now, but they’ll likely fall by the wayside at some point, leaving you with an outdated living space in just a few years’ time. If you remember the days of shag carpets and conversation pits, you’ll understand the importance of timeless designs over trendy decor. Therefore, rather than design your home according to the hottest current trends, opt for classic style elements that will stand the test of time.

This classic mindset is most applicable when you’re designing the architecture and layout of your home. Smaller design elements, such as the color of your walls and the style of your furniture can follow current trends a bit easier, as they can be easily altered when the trends fall out of fashion. Choosing classic designs will allow your home to continue growing with you over the years and will ensure that you don’t get stuck in the past.

Focus on the floor plan

Designing the floor plan for your forever home is one task that will require a lot of planning, organization, and visualization. The floor plan must ensure the home is equal parts functional and fashionable. As such, it’s often in your best interests to work with a licensed architect and contractor when you’re drawing up the blueprints for your forever home.

When outlining the floor plan for your home, be sure to consider how frequently each room will be used and how easily they’ll flow from one space to another. Many homeowners opt for an open floor plan, as it enables an easy flow of traffic between rooms and allows an increased amount of living space in the home. If an entirely open floor plan isn’t quite your style, consider opening up the space between one or two rooms. Creating an open floor plan between the kitchen and dining room is a popular choice for many homeowners, as is opening up the space between the dining area and the living room. Adding archways in lieu of doors is also a great way to open up the space without knocking down too many walls.

Thoroughly plan plumbing and electrical work

When outlining the floor plan, you’ll also want to think critically about where plumbing and electrical work will be placed. These elements will likely remain in the same position for the entirety of your life in this house, so it’s crucial that you approve of where they’re placed. Be sure to work with a licensed plumber and electrician when installing these elements in your home. They’ll be able to advise the best locations for certain fixtures and ensure that all elements are installed safely and correctly.

Remain flexible

Unlike your plumbing and electrical work, you can easily change some elements of your home. In fact, many features will likely undergo several changes during the course of your life in this house. Therefore, remember to remain flexible when designing your forever home. You may not be able to execute your original vision exactly as you’d hoped, but your home will still be beautiful and unique at the end of the day. Don’t be afraid to alter a few elements during the design process. You may find that these new elements are better than your original vision.

Whether you’re hoping to sell your home next week or next year, it’s never too early to start thinking about property value. In-ground pools and home theaters may seem like the way to go when you’re seeking to raise your home’s property value, but these expensive additions may actually hinder your ROI in the long run. Simpler home renovations are the key for how to raise your home’s property value. Below are a few simple home renovations that can yield a beneficial return on investment when you’re ready to sell your house.

Make a good first impression

Good first impressions are crucial to raising your home’s property value. Begin with good landscaping and curb appeal: trim back any foliage that might obscure the view of your home, and repair any scratches on your home’s siding or cracks in the driveway or sidewalk. This will help your home appear polished and tidy. You may also consider installing new windows, painting the front door, and replacing your roof. These renovations may be a bit more time-consuming, but they’ll certainly pay off in the long run and lead to a larger ROI when it comes time to sell your home.

Make your home efficient

With many homeowners now placing an increased importance on green living, outfitting your home with energy-efficient updates is a great way to increase resale value. Low-flow faucets and showerheads and energy-efficient appliances are simple additions that can significantly reduce your home’s energy use. You can also replace your roof with a more energy-efficient option such as metal roofing. Properly insulating your attic will also ensure that your heating and cooling systems aren’t overworked and that they don’t expel more energy than necessary.

Make it low-maintenance

As we’ve stated, additions such as a pool may seem profitable at first, but they may actually decrease your home’s property value due to the fact that these additions often require a significant amount of maintenance. Choosing lower-maintenance features is a more beneficial way to raise your home’s property value. Buyers will be more inclined to purchase a home that can stand the test of time and that won’t require extra maintenance during that time. Metal roofing, for instance, is a very durable and long-lasting roofing option. Unlike asphalt, tile, or wood shingle roofs, which are more susceptible to cracks and damages, metal roofing requires much less maintenance during its long lifespan. To learn more about how metal roofing can increase your home’s property value, contact our team at Distinctive Metal Roofing. Our team of skilled metal roofing professionals in Ohio is eager to help you update your home.

When choosing a new roofing style there are many things to consider, such as style, safety, and stability. Luckily, with this guide to the many advantages of metal roofing, your decision process will be easier than ever.

Long-lasting

One of the most well-known advantages of metal roofing is the fact that it is much more long-lasting than other roofing materials. Other roofing materials such as asphalt, wood, or tile shingles only last 13 – 20 years and may require additional maintenance during that time. A quality metal roof, on the other hand, can last 50 years or more and requires little or no maintenance. The long lifespan, coupled with an equally long-lasting, non-prorated warranty, makes metal roofing a worthwhile investment that will last a lifetime.

Durable

One of the major strengths of metal roofing is its ability to withstand a wide variety of extreme weather conditions, including strong winds, severe rain, snow, and hail. Over time, other roofing materials such as asphalt, wood, and tile begin to break down from the hot-cold and wet-dry weather conditions, causing them to break down and weaken its ability to protect your home. Metal roofing is impervious to weather changes and will not weaken over time. Lastly, the interlocking structure of metal roofs eliminates the risk of shingles curling or lifting away from the roof.

Low maintenance

As we’ve stated, metal roofs require little maintenance during their long lifespan. This is due to the fact that metal is a much more durable building material than asphalt, tile, or wooden shingles. Quality metal roofs use a PVDF coating which consists of a very tight molecular bond that enables dirt to easily wash off the roof when it rains. In most environmental conditions, metal roofs will remain clean over the long term. The resin-based finish is also resistant to chalking, fading, staining and streaking, creating an additional level of durability.

Eco-friendly

Metal roofing not only protects your family and home, but it can also help protect the environment. Metal roofing is made from up to 95% recycled materials and are completely recyclable at the end of their life. Because they are so long-lasting, however, it will be many years before a metal roof even needs to be replaced. During this time an asphalt roof may need to be replaced several times, creating additional waste in a landfill each time its replaced. Metal roofs, however, are 100% recyclable and can be repurposed multiple times, effectively reducing the amount of waste created.

Energy efficient

Another eco-friendly benefit of metal roofing is the fact that they are much more energy-efficient than other roofing materials. Metal roof coatings can reflect sunlight and minimize heat gain in your home. In addition, metal roofs dissipate heat rapidly when the sun goes down, making the roof cool to the touch, eliminating any heat from radiating into your attic area. In the peak of summer, have you ever walked across an asphalt parking lot after the sun goes down? If you have, you will continue to feel the heat coming up from the asphalt. That is because asphalt collects the heat and continues to radiate heat long after the sun goes down. When asphalt is on your roof, that heat will continue to radiate into your home, causing your air conditioner to work harder. Because a metal roof dissipates heat rapidly, less heat will enter your home, reducing the stress on your cooling system and helping you cut down on your utility bill significantly.

Safety

Unlike other roofing materials, metal shingles and panels are noncombustible. Whereas other roofing materials may ignite when faced with extreme heat, metal roofs typical receive a Class A fire rating, the highest first safety rating awarded. Metal roofs will not ignite even when met with flying sparks and embers, providing added security for your residents of the home. Though tile roofs are also fire-resistant, they pose a much greater risk of caving in during a fire than metal roofs do.

Lightweight

It may be surprising, but metal roofing is actually a rather lightweight building material. When compared to cement tile or slate roofing, which weigh roughly 700 – 900 pounds per square (an area equal to 100 square feet), or asphalt, which can weigh 300 – 350 pounds per square, metal roofing only weight about 50 – 150 pounds per square. As such, the risk of a roof caving in or sagging under a vast amount of weight is greatly reduced when building with lightweight metal roofing. Although lightweight, metal roofing has superior strength to withstand heavy winds, severe storms, and hail, and can be walked on without damaging the roof.

Weather-resistant

As we’ve stated, the weight of metal roofing makes it quite resistant to high winds and poses a low risk of lifting away from the home. For this reason, metal roofing is a good option for homes located in areas where hurricanes or tornadoes may be common, as well as other kinds of extreme weather. Metal roofing is also resistant to less extreme weather conditions. It is not easily damaged by snow, rain, or even hail and can withstand both hot and cold temperatures with ease.

Easily sheds water and snow

Metal roofing with a PVDF coating will easily shed water and snow with greater ease than roofs with asphalt, tile, or wood shingles. Asphalt or stone coated metal roofs have stone granules that slowly prevent water and snow from easily shedding off the roof surface. In areas where there is heavy snowfall, having the snow easily come off your roof is a significant benefit, reducing the weight on your home.

Style

In addition to being practical, metal roofs can also be quite stylish. Far from the corrugated metal of old barn roofs, modern metal roofing is available in a variety of styles such as cedar, shake, tile, slate, and standing seam, the wide array of colors and finishes also allows each homeowner to customize their roof according to their own personal style. With a wide range of metal roofing styles and colors, you never have to choose between durability and design, promising you both long-term protection and a timeless appearance you can be proud of.

For more information regarding metal roofing or if you’re interested in installing metal roofing in Pennsylvania or the surrounding area, contact our team at Distinctive Metal Roofing.

Nothing lasts forever—not even your roof. As the years go by, you may begin to notice certain changes in your roof. These changes may be an indicator that your roof is nearing the end of its life. Kiss your old roof goodbye with these four telltale signs it’s time to get a new roof.

You can see light through the roof boards

Performing an interior check of your roof is a great way to inspect for any damage and assess the overall condition. During this interior inspection, be on the lookout for any natural light that may shine through the roof boards. If you do notice any light, you should replace your roof immediately. If the light can permeate your roof, then water can do the same—this can spell serious trouble for your home. If water has permeated your roof through these cracks, you may also notice that the roof has a spongy or bouncy feel when you walk on it. This is yet another serious indicator of moisture within the roof which can lead to sagging of the roof over time.

You notice signs of water damage

Water damage is one of the most common causes of roof damage, and it can cause your roof to deteriorate significantly in a short amount of time. If you begin to notice leaks in your home, this may be an indicator that it’s time for a new roof. Other signs of roof damage may include dark streaks or stains, rotting ceiling tiles, or sagging spots in the ceiling. You should regard each sign with equal concern and address them immediately. Even a seemingly small and inconsequential water spot can grow over time, effectively worsening the condition of the roof. Additionally, if you notice rotting or signs of moss or algae, you may need to consider investing a new roof. This could be a sign that moisture has built up in the roof or under the shingles.

Cracked, curling, or missing shingles

While this is a relatively small and easy repair, if you are regularly replacing cracked, curling, or missing shingles, it may be time for a new roof. Cracked shingles often come as a result of water and snow damage. As the water freezes, the shingles expand, leading them to crack. Curling, on the other hand, is a result of repeat wind damage and may cause shingles to lift away from the roof easier. Replacing your roof once, rather than replacing shingles every year, will save you money in the long run. Distinctive Metal Roofing offers a wide range of metal roofing styles, so you never have to choose between durability and design.  Opting for a metal roof (particularly one without small shingles), such as a standing seam metal roof, will also reduce the risk of cracked or missing shingles.

Your roof is reaching the end of its life

Unlike other signs it’s time to get a new roof, this indicator may not be quite as visible. As with any product, your roof will only last so long. As it nears the end of its lifespan, it will likely not be as effective as it once was. Asphalt roofs typically only last between 15 and 20 years and often require a lot of maintenance during that time. An asphalt roof’s quality and effectiveness will decrease over the years. As such, it’s important to keep the age of the roof in mind when considering a replacement. Metal roofs, on the other hand, can last upwards of 60 years. Plus, they do not require replacement nearly as often as asphalt roofs, nor will they need the same amount of upkeep and maintenance.

If your roof is nearing the end of its life, contact our team at Distinctive Metal Roofing. Our team of skilled professionals provides the best products and service for metal roofing in Chagrin Falls,OH and the surrounding area.

Home renovations can be quite extensive and often require a lot of planning, and a roof installation is no different. Before you dive into such a large project, you want to make sure you have the best people for the job. Unfortunately, most states have few or no regulations regarding roofing contractors and installers, or have building code requirements for roofing your home. Because the cost of entry into the roofing profession is fairly low, there are a number of people out there who are not properly trained or have the experience to do a quality job. 

When evaluating a contractor, be sure to ask the prospective contractor questions, and never feel like there are too many questions! A professional roofing contractor understands the investment you are making in your home and will welcome your questions. Below are some important questions to ask a roofing contractor before you begin your next home renovation.

How long have you been in business?

As the saying goes, practice makes perfect, and this statement remains tried and true when it comes to choosing a roofing company and contractor. While it’s true that everyone must start somewhere, it’s in your best interest to entrust your roofing project to someone with several years of experience. For many roofing professionals, training is done on the job, so it stands to reason that the most reliable companies are those who have been on the job the longest. For contractors who have been in business for several years, ask to look at their portfolio or seek out reviews from past clients. Asking to talk to recent customers to see how satisfied they were and if they would recommend the roofing contractor can be a great way to assess the quality and reliability of your roofing contractor.

Are you licensed?

An important piece of information you need to have as you prepare for a roof remodel, and it should be one of the first questions you ask a roofing contractor. Most states require roofing contractors to carry a license; however, the specific requirements may differ from state to state. Building codes and permit requirements also vary between cities and states, so be sure to contact your local government regarding permits and licensure prior to your roof renovation. Your roofing contractor should be able to provide documentation of proper licensure, and the license should be kept up to date. A current and valid license ensures your roofing contractor is properly trained and can install or repair your roof efficiently, accurately, and—most of all—safely.  

Do you carry insurance? If so, what types of insurance do you carry? 

Like with any renovation project, a roof remodel comes with its own unique set of risks. The best way to mitigate these risks is to ensure your roofing contractor carries proper insurance. First, your roofing contractor should carry workman’s compensation insurance. This not only benefits the workers, as it protects them in the event of injury while on the job, but it also benefits the homeowner. It places liability for any injuries on the roofing company rather than on you. Your roofing contractor should also carry liability insurance, which protects your home in the event of property damage. Liability insurance places accountability for any property damages incurred during the construction process strictly on the roofing company and contractor. When you ask your roofing contractor about the insurance they carry, be sure to obtain physical documentation to ensure everything runs safely and smoothly.

What is the warranty? 

Installing a new roof is a big investment, so you want to make sure it will remain in good condition for many years to come. Prior to choosing a roofing contractor, be sure to fully discuss the details of their warranty. This discussion should include all warranties covering materials used, work performed, the duration of the warranty, and the process to implement the warranty. Warranties will differ based on your contractor’s policies and the building materials used. Roofs built with asphalt, for instance, typically have a warranty between 10 and 20 years. Metal roofs, however, are much more durable, so their warranty generally lasts at least 40 years. 

Who will be my point of contact on site? 

Throughout the roofing process, you will likely be in contact with several people. Before work begins on your home, it’s always important to know who your point of contact will be. This will most likely be the project manager. The project manager should be able to answer any questions and address any concerns that may arise during the construction process. This will also be your point of contact if something goes wrong or plans need to be altered. The salesperson who sold you the roof job is the person most responsible for the job. Verify the salesperson will not disappear after the contract has been signed. The salesperson is responsible for the commitments made to you about the project and should be available to you at all times. 

How long will the project take? 

Every roof installation is different, and the time frame of your project is determined by the scope of work. The style of your home’s roof may also affect the timeline for the project. Roofs with multiple hips and gables, or roofs with additions such as garrets, may take a bit longer to renovate. Ask when your project can be scheduled. You should discuss a timeline with your roofing contractor prior to beginning the installation process to help level your expectations and ensure everyone is one the same page. Ask what a normal workday looks like and make sure the Project Manager contacts you directly if there are any exceptions. A good roofing contractor will also keep you informed throughout the job to make sure the job is on track and meeting your expectations

How will you protect my gutters?

Your gutters play an important part in protecting your home against water damage. Damaged gutters will not properly drain water away from your home, which will cause the water to deposit closer to your house and potentially damage the foundation. During roof installation, workers repeatedly climb on and off your roof, and the ladders used can cause significant damage to gutters. To reduce the risk of damaging gutters, your roofing contractor should employ standoffs or ladder stabilizers. This equipment reduces the strain placed on gutters and reduces the risk of creating further roof damage.

How will you protect my landscaping during installation?

Not only does a roof installation involve climbing on and off your roof, but the workers will likely trek across your driveway, yard, and garden to get to and from their truck. When you choose a roofing contractor, be sure to discuss the precautionary measures they will take to keep your yard looking pristine. Often, during the installation process, old shingles and roofing materials are dropped from your roof to a tarp or garbage receptacle waiting below. To protect against falling debris, you should have bushes, gardens, decks, and patios safely covered.

How will you dispose of materials? 

Your roof installation will also come with its fair share of dust and debris. To ensure the worksite is kept clean and safe, your roofing contractor should deliver a refuse container to your home. Prior to the delivery of the refuse container, be sure to discuss the intended location with your roofing contractor. Dumpsters and other garbage receptacles are quite heavy, even when empty, and only become heavier as they’re filled with debris from your roof. Take extra care when you determine the location of this container, as they can potentially cause cracks in your driveway due to their extreme weight. If your contractor does intend to place the container on your driveway, discuss additional precautions, such as placing plywood under the container, to reduce the risk of driveway damage.

How do you handle inclement weather?

Mother Nature is often quite finicky, and weather can throw a wrench in home construction plans. In the event of heavy winds or a torrential downpour, you want to make sure your construction crew is prepared. The project manager will always be monitoring the weather and adjust their plans for the day accordingly. To protect your exposed roof during the construction process, your roofing company should have the ice guard and underlayment installed, or tarp and cover your exposed roof at the end of each day, even if rain is not in the forecast. After all, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Preparedness is key when you begin a home renovation, and we understand that. The Distinctive Metal Roofing team have been meeting and exceeding customer roofing needs for more than 10 years. For answers to any and all your roofing queries, contact Distinctive Metal Roofing – Ohio’s Metal Roofing Experts!

Your roof may seem tough, but sometimes Mother Nature is tougher. Below are some of the most common causes of roof damage and the steps you can take to better protect your roof.

Water and ice

Water can be an incredibly corrosive element, causing damage to even the most well-maintained roofs. Heavy rain and thunderstorms can significantly damage your roof, while large amounts of stagnant water may cause your roof to cave in or collapse. If this stagnant water freezes, it can cause additional damage as the ice expands and potentially lifts shingles. Hail is also a common cause of roof damage.

Metal roofing is a durable option that can better withstand the harmful effects of hail, water, and ice damage. Water can easily slide off metal roofing, which greatly reduces the risk of stagnant water. Additionally, metal roofing is a good option to protect against ice damage, as there are no shingles for expanding ice to lift. A wonderful feature of a quality metal roof is the way the metal roof interlocks on all sides, preventing water and wind from getting underneath the metal shingles.

Wind

2019 seems to be a highly active year for tornadoes, which can cause significant damage to your home and roof: in the past year, at least 20 tornadoes have been reported across Pennsylvania. Even extreme wind unrelated to tornadoes can spell trouble for your roof. Homes with gable and mansard-style roofs are typically at a higher risk of wind damage; these styles commonly have a bit of overhang, making it easier for high winds to lift the roof away from the home.

Fallen tree limbs and debris

Trees may seem peaceful and relaxing as they blow in the wind, but if the wind proves too strong and a tree falls on your home, it can cause extensive damage to your roof. Luckily, unlike some of the other common causes of roof damage listed above, damage caused by tree limbs or fallen debris is often preventable. Be sure to routinely trim back any tree limbs that hang over your house or present potential risks of falling on your roof. This will reduce not only the risk of tree branches breaking and falling on your home, but also the amount of debris such as pine cones and leaves that can fall and add additional weight to your roof.

Faulty gutters

Gutters can help reduce the risk of water damage and flooding, but they can also create issues when not properly maintained. Don’t underestimate the importance of gutters. Clogged gutters can create a buildup of water on your roof, which may lead to additional water damage and leaks. Make sure your gutters are correctly installed and free of cracks to ensure that water properly drains away from your roof and home. Additionally, be sure to regularly clean your gutters, as leaves, twigs, and other debris can cause your gutters to function improperly and cause significant roof damage.

Neglect

Perhaps the most common—yet most overlooked—cause of roof damage is neglect. Like any aspect of your home, your roof should be routinely inspected for signs of damage or weak spots. Metal roof maintenance is essential. This will alert you to potential issues before they have a chance to become bigger problems. Neglecting small issues can lead to even bigger problems in the future, so it’s crucial that your roof is inspected at least once a year, either by a professional or by yourself.

If you begin to notice repeat damage to your roof, it may be time to consider replacement. Contact our team of metal roofing professionals in Butler, PA, and the surrounding areas to discuss how metal roofing can protect your home against these common causes of roof damage.

Roofs endure the elements every day. Hail, heat, heavy wind, and snow are just a few of the conditions they must remain resilient against. If heavy winds are ruining your roof, there are some steps you can take to change that. Continue reading to discover how to improve the wind resistance of your home roof.

Choose Suitable Roofing Materials

Unfortunately, not all roofing materials have the same endurance against heavy winds. Asphalt shingles, for instance, will often break or fall off entirely when wind conditions become excessive. If you want to improve wind resistance, install a roof made from durable metal. For instance, our metal slate roofing can withstand winds up to 160 mph without needing repairs.

Thanks in no small part to their ability to combat the elements, an expertly installed metal roof should last at least 50 years without any issues.

Hire a Metal Roofing Expert

This goes hand in hand with the previous point: hire a metal roofing expert for the installation process. Metal roofing comes with a bevy of benefits besides wind resistance, such as better energy efficiency and eco-friendliness. However, to utilize all of these benefits, you must hire the right professional for the job. Hiring an inexperienced or unreliable contractor can result in a metal roof having unwanted openings and other detriments to the system’s structural integrity. To guarantee a metal roof’s wind resistance, do a thorough background check into contractors, including feedback from previous customers.

Optimize Attic Ventilation

When determining how to improve the wind resistance of your home roof,inspecting your attic is more vital than some homeowners might realize. As mentioned in the previous point, unwanted openings in a roof can be detrimental to its strength and integrity. When your attic brings in large amounts of air, it needs good ventilation to allow that air to exit smoothly. Without proper ventilation, air pressure buildup in the attic can weaken your roof deck and ceiling, creating a safety hazard in the process. To prevent your home’s roof and ceiling from falling apart because of intense winds, make sure your attic has sufficient ventilation.

Owning a home is a significant responsibility, to say the least. Whether you’re a first-time homeowner or a long-time one, the level of responsibility property ownership requires should always be very apparent. However, there are so many facets of home upkeep that it’s easy for residents to forget some of the most important tasks. For this reason, many homeowners prefer carrying out annual upkeep around the end of winter or the beginning of spring.

That timeframe is ideal because harsh winter weather can do a number on residential homes thanks to ice dams, moisture damage, and other seasonal hazards. Plus, the spring and summer months pose hazards of their own. Planning out a springtime maintenance checklist allows you to efficiently and thoroughly conduct necessary inspections, cleanings, and so forth each year. This guide will introduce you to five examples of important maintenance to get your home ready for spring.

Cleaning the Gutters and Downspouts

Although gutters run along the roof of your home, they play a key role in preventing water from gathering in the foundation below. The downspouts running down the side of your home function in tandem with gutters to keep the foundation safe and secure. Unfortunately, if your gutters or downspouts are clogging, they’ll overflow after any spring showers.

Not only will that overflowing water hinder your home’s foundation, but it can also lead to your roof and siding enduring water damage. So, why do gutters or downspouts clog? Obstructions such as leaves, twigs, and dirt can accumulate in gutters and downspouts, making it harder for them to divert water away from your foundation safely.

Since spring and summer have a knack for bringing heavy rainfall, inspecting gutters and downspouts should be one of the first tasks on your spring maintenance checklist. All you have to do is obtain a stable ladder, hose, pair of gloves, and a container to put debris in. If the gutter is dirty, scoop out any gunk or debris you find.

Once you remove the obstructions, turn on your hose and wash out the gutters. Not only does this help you remove any lingering gunk, but it also helps you test out the system’s ability to carry water away from your foundation. Consider reaching out to a professional if you have any worries about climbing a ladder to check the gutters.

Inspecting the Roof

Winter is rarely kind to residential roofs, especially if the roof is made from asphalt shingles. Asphalt shingles are popular roofing materials, but they’re susceptible to various weather issues. Heavy winds can loosen these shingles or knock them off a roof entirely. Plus, asphalt roofing is susceptible to ice dam formation and moisture damage—two issues they’ll endure during the winter months.

To ensure your roof is free of debris or damage, schedule an inspection on your spring maintenance checklist. If the roof requires repairs or replacement, seek out a professional’s assistance as soon as possible. Missing shingles are more than cosmetic damage—they make your roof more vulnerable to moisture damage.

Luckily, not all forms of roofing are as susceptible to winter weather hazards as asphalt shingles. Metal roofing is the best material for withstanding harsh weather, making springtime inspections very quick. This is because a good metal roof can shed ice and snow better than asphalt shingles.

Metal roofing can accumulate ice dams, but they’re much less likely to do so than other materials, especially if you invest in high-quality materials and adequate attic ventilation. Additionally, you can experience the benefits of metal roofing that mimics the style and aesthetic of shingles. For example, our team of experts can successfully carry out a metal shingle installation, which gives homeowners a chance to don the layout of shingles without suffering from the many downsides of asphalt roofing.

Fixing the Windows

Once spring arrives, homeowners tend to find insects such as flies, spiders, and ants around their property more frequently than they did during winter. One of the many suitable methods for keeping insects out of your home is installing window screens. These mesh barriers might seem simple, but opening up windows and letting fresh air into your house during summer would be much less comfortable without them.

Installing window screens allows homeowners to open windows on warm evenings without worrying about bugs marching in. To ensure your window screens are up for the challenge, include an inspection of all screens (windows and doors) around the property. Repair or replace any mesh screens displaying rips, holes, and other signs of damage before spring comes around.

Looking for Leaks

Homes have pipes all over the place, which means leaks can develop almost anywhere on the property. To prevent hidden leaks from wreaking havoc on your home, jot a comprehensive home inspection down on your spring maintenance checklist. Inspect all pipes for signs of damage, especially in the basement. Allowing pipes to leak is an easy way to promote mold growth in your home. Don’t forget to include the attic in the inspection too.

Overflowing gutters can cause leaks in the attic, but they’re not the only culprit. From poor ventilation to inadequate roof installation, attics can suffer from leaks for various reasons, so routine inspections are crucial.

Testing Smoke Alarms

Once a year, homeowners have to test all their smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Keeping your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms in working condition is vital for keeping you and your family safe throughout the year. Testing these devices as part of your annual spring cleaning is a great way to keep this task in mind so you can stay on top of that once-a-year timeframe. If necessary, swap out any smoke or carbon monoxide detector batteries to get these devices ready to provide another twelve months of protection.

Conducting important maintenance to get your home ready for Spring is never something you should put off. If you’re a homeowner who wants to have pride in their home every day, keeping the property functional and attractive is the way to achieve that feeling.

Well in advance of the first day of spring, put your maintenance checklist in order and follow through with each task upon the season’s arrival. Even if you don’t yet see the value in some of these maintenance tasks, their importance will become apparent once you begin carrying them out annually.

Optimizing energy efficiency can reduce utility costs while making your home more comfortable in the process. Not every homeowner realizes this, which is why a comprehensive guide to the subject is so useful.

As you’ll learn below, reducing power consumption through various methods can make your time living on your property a better experience. Whether you’re building a new home or renovating an older one, the guide to designing an energy-efficient home below will show you how to make the most out of this process.

Energy-Efficient Methods and Designs

This list contains five points explaining how to boost energy efficiency through modern technology and slight adjustments to daily habits. Implementing any individual method below will prove beneficial when it comes to utility costs and indoor temperatures. However, making an effort to use multiple or all of these methods will be well worth the effort in the long run.

A Fresh Set of Bulbs

First, let’s go through one of the more convenient methods of improving energy efficiency—installing LED bulbs. Although incandescent bulbs produce light, what homeowners don’t always realize is how these bulbs waste energy. Only about 10 percent of the energy incandescent bulbs use goes toward emitting visible light. The other 90 percent of the energy consumed by incandescent lights simply turns into heat. Don’t worry; fixing this issue is incredibly simple.

All you have to do is pick up some good LED bulbs and install them all over the house. Plus, you can easily find LEDs that emit different color temperatures. Whether you want bulbs that emit a warm, soothing glow or an intense, bright light, there’s a set of LEDs that can help you achieve that effect. Not only do LEDs waste less energy than incandescent bulbs, but the former lasts much longer too.

The Right Roofing Material

Many homeowners choose asphalt shingles when deciding on a roof to install. This roofing option is prevalent, but if you’re trying to design an energy-efficient home, asphalt shingles won’t help. Luckily, metal roofing is beneficial when it comes to optimizing energy usage. If properly installed, metal roofs boost energy efficiency thanks to their ventilation and reflective properties.

Metal roofing has a strong knack for reflecting radiant heat, allowing your home to naturally maintain a comfortable indoor temperature. When your home’s indoor temperature is naturally comfortable, you can immensely minimize cooling and heating system usage.

These great attributes are why our residential standing seam metal roof comes in energy-efficient colors that meet ENERGY STAR requirements. In fact, swapping out any appliance with an ENERGY STAR product is a great way to cut down on power consumption at home.

Better Water Heating Habits

Water heaters are another home amenity that uses up way more energy than some people realize. Hot water is great, but excessive usage can lead to excessive energy bills.

Insulating your water heater storage tanks and pipes is a great way to prevent heat loss while the until is operating. Insulating might sound straightforward, but you should consult with a professional before taking a DIY approach to upgrading water heaters with this method. We’ll get into more detail about the benefits of insulation later in this guide because it’s an essential task for boosting energy efficiency at home.

Furthermore, you should consider investing in a timer for your water heater to minimize power consumption. An average water heater will always be functioning. That might sound harmless, but constantly keeping water heaters on results in a needless waste of energy. Luckily, homeowners can install energy-efficient monitoring systems for water heaters, giving them the power to schedule when the heater operates and when it doesn’t. For instance, scheduling the water heater to remain off while you’re asleep or at work is a great way to dodge unnecessary costs on your utility bill.

Another simple way to reduce water heating costs is by only using hot water when absolutely necessary. You can successfully complete daily household tasks such as brushing your teeth, doing the laundry, or washing your hands with cold water—requiring no assistance from the water heater.

Enhancing Windows and Doors

How you optimize doors and windows can make or break your energy consumption. For instance, taking the time to inspect doors and windows for cracks can help you prevent unwanted heat loss or gain. The heat loss will negatively affect indoor temperatures during winter when warming up the house is particularly helpful.

On the other hand, heat gain will make the house feel uncomfortably warm during the summer. A window crack might look small, but it has a big effect on how comfortable your home is without touching your heating and cooling system. In fact, weather stripping exterior doors is a must when looking for methods to minimize heat gain and loss.

Even a single door or window can be an energy vacuum, but simple tasks like the ones listed above can help you prevent such a scenario. Additionally, a great way to enhance the effect windows and doors have on your heat usage is by swapping them out for more energy-efficient models. Whenever you’re shopping for energy-efficient windows, doors, or even skylights, be sure to look at each one’s energy performance rating. The better the rating, the bigger the impact the window, door, or skylight can have on your home’s heat loss and gain.

Insulating the Entire House

Earlier, we briefly touched on the value of insulating water heater components. The importance of insulation expands beyond your water heater. Minimizing heating and cooling costs is as easy as putting insulation in the ceilings, walls, and floors of your home. Insulation is particularly useful in areas of the house that are more susceptible to the elements, such as basements, attics, and any exterior walls. The purpose of insulation is to regulate internal temperatures.

This means that when it gets hot in the summer, insulation between the walls keeps the inside of your home cool and comfortable. On the other hand, the insulation will keep your home warm and cozy during the colder winter months.

Unfortunately, not all homeowners optimize energy efficiency. Regardless, as you can see from the points above, investing in energy efficiency can pay off in the long run. You can make small improvements through new light bulbs, or you can take it a step further and buy more energy-efficient roofing materials, windows, doors, and other household essentials. However you want to make improvements, the guide to designing an energy-efficient home above shows you the best ways to do it.