Roofing 101: Roofing Materials

Phil's Main Roofing 

(203) 838-4545

www.philsmainroofing.com

Planning to install a new roof doesn't always have to be stressful, in fact, some parts of it are meant to be fun! While certain aspects of the roofing process must stick to strict guidelines, when it comes to choosing the materials you will use a world of options open up. But with so many choices, how do you choose? Of course you want to to pick the materials that fit your design preferences, but it's also crucial to stick within your budget. To help you decide, we've compiled a list of some of the most popular roofing materials and their characteristics:

Asphalt: The most common roofing material is asphalt shingles. Asphalt shingles are comprised of cellulose or fiberglass mats coated with asphalt and granules and can be made algae-resistant for homes in hot climates. 
Cost: Starts at $50 per square

Laminated:  Laminated shingles are thicker than asphalt and are made of fiberglass mat. Compared to asphalt, laminated shingles have a shake-like profile and exhibit greater fire and wind resistance. This material is likely to give your roof a lifespan of 40 to 50 years,.
Cost: $60 to $80 per square

Wood: Wood shingles are made from cedar, redwood and southern pine. These shingles are flat yet thick, and they require a roof with a 4:12 slope in order to properly drain water. Wood shingles require a bit of extra maintenance, as you must apply a preservative and fungicide every 2 to 5 years.
Cost: Starts at $100 per square

Metal: Metal shingles are made of aluminum, steel or copper and come in standing seam, corrugated or faux-shake styles. They are long lasting and lightweight, but be weary that they are heat conductors and are potentially noisy.
Cost: Steel and Aluminum: $100 to $260 per square
         Copper: $250 to $500 per square

Clay Tile: Clay tile is a very durable material that is often used on homes with mission or Spanish style architecture. It is created from pulverized clay and water and is usually curved in its natural state. If  you choose this material, be aware that tiles can crack or chip and installation might require more extensive roof framing.
Cost: $250 to $500 per square

Slate: Slate tile is one of the only materials that seems to withstand any and all circumstances. However, the installation is quite difficult and often requires special skills and expertise to be done correctly.
Cost: $300 to $600 per square

Concrete Tile: If your torn between clay, slate and wood shakes, concrete tile can give you the look and feel of both. This is one of the easier materials to install, however they are a bit heavy and require extra roof framing.
Cost: $150 to $250 per square for standard types
         $350 to $500 per square for lightweight tiles

Rubber Composite: Rubber composite shingles are a result of plastic and rubber joining together. This material is said to resemble slate and is lightweight, strong and flexible.
Cost: $295 to $400 per square

Whether you've picked out your roofing materials or are still deciding, it's time to connect with a a reputable roofing contractor to have it installed. Choose Phil's Main Roofing! Phil's Main Roofing is a fully licensed and insured roofing company that has been in business for over 65 years. Our team of professional roofers will work with you to install the top roofing brands and will make sure your roof is built to last. Call us at (203) 838-4545 to speak with a representative or visit us online at www.philsmainroofing.com for more information.

Tips for Choosing a Roofing Contractor

                                                Phil's Main Roofing 

(203) 838-4545

www.philsmainroofing.com

Image courtesy of
stockimages / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

As a homeowner, repairing or replacing a roof is one of the most important, and possibly most expensive projects you'll come across. Just like any home improvement project, when preparing to install a new roof it is essential to work with a quality roofing contractor in order to ensure your home is properly cared for during the construction process. Doing a basic search for contractors in your area is more than likely to produce dozens of results, so how do you know which one to choose? Thanks to Home Advisor, we've collected some rules to follow when finding, choosing and hiring your roofing contractor:

1. Talk to More Than One Contractor: Although you may think you've found the perfect contractor on the first try, it's important to talk to others to make sure you're not being over or under charged. By getting a few opinions, you can make a more educated decision on which contractor's work is likely to produce the best results for the best price.
2. Research: Before sealing the deal with any contractor, it's important to do some research on the one you think you might hire. Any reputable contractor will be licensed and should be willing to give you references to confirm that they are honest and reliable.
3. Review the Contract and Warranties: Never sign a contract without reading it over. Any contractor should be happy to explain anything you don't understand, and they shouldn't be annoyed that you want to take the time to completely understand your agreement. Also, double check about the warranty that comes with your roof; the materials and workmanship should be guaranteed for 5 years while the roof should be guaranteed a lifespan of 20-40 years.
4. Cover Your Bases: Before any work is started, check with your contractor if you need to get a permit for what's being done. It's also a good idea to make sure employees are covered by workers comp, and don't forget to clear everything with the insurance company if you're submitting a claim.
5. Don't Pay the Balance Upfront: Asking for a deposit or setting up a payment schedule are two of the most common ways to handle the cost of your project. Make it a priority to pay with a credit card instead of cash, and if a contractor insists that you pay the entire balance upfront, don't sign the contract.

If you're looking for a top of the line roofing contractor, we've got the answer. Phil's Main Roofing is a family owned and operated roofing company that has been serving CT and NY for over 65 years. We are fully licensed and insured and install only the top roofing brands to ensure your roof and home are taken care of the right way. Let us make your decision a little easier; choose Phil's Main Roofing! Call us at (203) 838-4545 for your FREE estimate today.

Why You Should Ventilate Your Roof

 Phil's Main Roofing 

(203) 838-4545

www.philsmainroofing.com

We all know that a roof is one of the most important elements on a home; after all, they protect us from extreme weather conditions and prevent outdoor critters, water and more from getting in our way. Whether you're installing a new roof or repairing your current one, there are certain things you must consider in order to guarantee your home is protected for as long as possible. 

But what exactly is the best way to ensure your roof has a long life span? Well, we'll tell you! One of the best ways to make your roof last is by installing a proper ventilation system. Ventilating your roof is crucial for a number of reasons, so make sure it's taken care of during the repair or replacement of your roof.

Now that you know ventilation is essential, you might be asking yourself, "why?" First of all, every home builds moisture; it's inevitable! If there is no where for the moisture to vent through the attic, it will stay on the surface of the insulation you have and cause moisture damage in the long run. Second, excessive heat buildup in the attic can damage your roof's shingles and tiles. If there is no where for the heat to escape, you increase the likelihood that this kind of damage will occur. 

How to Ventilate Your Roof

Off-ridge venting is one of the most popular choices for ventilation. By using off-ridge ventilation, you can vent out damaging moisture from your home and prevent excessive heat buildup in your attic to prevent further damage to your roof. This kind of ventilation places metal vents along the horizontal ridge of the roof to let air flow of your attic. 


For more information on why ventilation is important, check out this video from the DIY network: 

At Phil's Main Roofing, we know how important it is for your roof to be equipped with the proper ventilation system. That's why we want to help! Call us today at 203-838-4545 to speak with a representative or to learn more about how our services can benefit you and your home.

How To Prepare Your Roof For Spring

Phil's Main Roofing 

(203) 838-4545

www.philsmainroofing.com

Image courtesy of Wikipedia

After a long, cold winter, the spring has finally arrived! As we look towards sunny skies and warm weather, it's time to survey any damages that the harsh winter weather may have brought to our homes. With excessive snowfall and unusually cold temperatures this winter, our shingles, gutters and flashings must be inspected to make sure everything is still in place and working properly. If you're planning on performing your spring inspection yourself, here are some DIY tips to guide you on what to look for:

1. Survey Your Shingles: To properly inspect your shingles, you must actually get up on a ladder and scan your shingles thoroughly. Look for shingles that are missing, peeling, or losing their grain, and replace or repair any that seem damaged.

2. Clean Moss and Mold from Your Shingles: If you see moss or mold growing on or in between your shingles, it's important to remove it! However, do not power wash the moss or mold as that can remove the protective top layer from your shingles. Instead, buy a roof moss remover solution and spray your roof, then remove the moss with a long-handled broom.

3. Tighten Metal Roof Bolts: If your roof is made of metal, tighten the bolts at the start of spring. This helps to prepare your home for any summer or fall storms that may come your way.

4. Clean Your Gutters and Downspouts: To clean your gutters, get out your ladder and a garden trowel. Start by removing all of the leaves and debris out of your gutter, and finish by cleaning out the entrance and exit of the downspout. If your gutter appears to be loose, don't forget to tighten it!

5. Repair Chimney and Skylight Flashing: Strong winds and heavy snow can cause a home's flashing to become loose. To prevent leaks from the traditional April showers, securely tack down the flashing.

6. Clean Out Soffits and Fascias: Outdoor critters love to nest in soffit and fascia vents, especially during the winter. At the start of spring, inspect your soffits and fascias for any animals that may have nested there for warmth.

Though these tasks may seem simple, having them done properly is more important than ease. If your roof seems seriously damaged or is too dangerous to maintain on your own, it's time to hire a professional. That's where we can help! At Phil's Main Roofing, we are available to perform inspections on commercial and residential roofs, and our seasoned team of professionals can assist in repairing roofs from all kinds of weather damage. Don't put yourself in harms way, call Phil's Main Roofing at 203-838-4545 for help today!

The Fundamentals of Roofing Safety

Phil's Main Roofing 

(203) 838-4545

www.philsmainroofing.com

Image courtesy of mrpuen / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

When it comes to installing or working on your roof, safety should be your number one concern. Without taking the proper precautions, you ultimately increase the likelihood that an accident will occur involving you or others around you. Instead of subjecting yourself to the dangers that come with roofing, take a look at these tips that can potentially save your life:

Work Area:
Having a clean, organized work area is essential in making sure your work goes smoothly. Keep children and pets away from the area, and make sure to identify potential dangers like power lines and underground hazards.

Falls:
Falls are one of the leading causes of serious injuries and deaths in construction. To minimize your risk of slipping and falling, never work on a wet roof, keep your work area as clean of dirt, tools, and debris as possible, wear the proper shoes, and always wear a helmet to protect your head just in case.

Ladder Safety:
To properly set up your ladder, place it on solid, level footing. For extra support, secure your ladder with a plywood brace and make sure it is leaning against something solid. Most importantly, extend your ladder at least 36 inches above the landing for an easy transition from the roof to the ladder.

Electrical Safety:
Electricity can be transmitted from a wire to a ladder even if it's several feet away. Always use a non-conductive ladder of wood or fiberglass if working near wires, and never touch the wires with your hands or tools.

Material Handling:
When lifting heavy materials, always use your legs and not your back. Don't try to carry too much at once, and always store your materials close to the roof so that you don't waste too much time and energy when retrieving material.

For a complete list of tools and safety equipment as well as more safety tips, including hammer safety, power nail safety and utility knife safety, click here.

Installing a roof can be a difficult project to take on by yourself, and that's why we're here to help! At Phil's Main Roofing, we can install both commercial and residential roofs. From new construction to minor repairs, our team is happy to assist you with all your roofing needs, making the task less daunting and more enjoyable for you to watch as your new roof comes to life. Call us today at 203-838-4545 for your FREE estimate or visit us online at www.philsmainroofing.com for more information on how we can help.

Problems To Look Out For During Home Inspections

Phil's Main Roofing 

(203) 838-4545

www.philsmainroofing.com

Before sealing the deal on a new home, you should always have a qualified home inspector perform a thorough home evaluation. Many problems might not be visible to the naked eye, so knowing what to look for in advance could save you a lot of time and money in the long run. Thanks to HGTV, here are some conditions to look out for when evaluating what could be your new home:

Image courtesy of Stuart Miles / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

1. Grade Sloping (Draining) Back Toward the Home: In the future this could lead to damp or wet crawlspaces, foundation movement, cracking or settlement. These problems could lead to rot, mold, uneven floors, or gaps in your home's windows and doors. 
2. Stucco Issues: Flaws in the application of stucco could lead to water damage that is too expensive to fix. At the base of exterior walls, a component of stucco-surfaced walls known as a weep screed is applied; if this becomes buried by patios or stoops that have been poured too high, the system cannot work and water may seep through the walls. If you notice the weep screed is disappearing because of concrete, know that one day you might experience water damage.
3. Roofing Materials: As roofing materials age, they allow unwanted water to enter the home. Also, if roofing materials aren't properly installed in the first place, it can lead to premature aging, and therefore, even earlier signs of water intrusion. Signs of an aging roof will differ based on the material, so do your research to find out what you should be looking for specifically. For some signs of aging asphalt singles, wood shingles, or terra cotta tile, click here.
4. Home Style vs. Building Materials: Always look for consistency in the architectural style and building materials used on a home. Home owners will often make adjustments to their homes that aren't permitted, so don't get stuck with the repercussions and headache that could follow.
5. Electrical Wiring: Faulty wiring is often the cause of house fires. While newer homes have an adequate supply of power and electrical outlets, older homes do not, so check with a licensed electrician that your home is safe before buying.

Other factors such as the year your home was built play a huge role in the frequency of problems that arise during home inspections. If you're looking for a home that comes hassle-free, keep these tips in mind and be sure to ask questions so there are no surprises in the future.

At Phil's Main Roofing, we specialize in both commercial and residential roofing. Our experienced team of roofers provide services such as new construction, water proofing, cleaning, maintenance programs and more that can help protect you and your roof from any serious problem that may occur. Call us today at 203-838-4545 or visit us online at www.philsmainroofing.com to find out how we can help you with all your roofing needs.

Flat Roofs vs. Pitched Roofs

Phil's Main Roofing 

(203) 838-4545

www.philsmainroofing.com

If you're thinking of re-doing your roof, the first thing you should consider is what kind you plan to install. The decision between a pitched roof or a flat roof could be a difficult one, but knowing a little bit about each one will make your renovating efforts a whole lot easier. 

Pitched roofs are available in a variety of styles, including gable, cross gable and hipped, and each option is sloped to a different degree. On the other hand, flat roofs have no slope and come in built-up, single-ply and sprayed polyurethane foam designs. We've gathered some information about each for you to use when jumping into the remodeling process:

Maintenance:
While both pitched and flat roofs require regular cleaning and maintenance, flat roofs often require more. Because flat roofs are exactly that, flat, their draining system is not as effective as pitched roofs and are therefore prone to damage and leaks. The majority of flat roof leaks are due to a lack of inspection, so be prepared to leave time to check your roof regularly if this is the style you choose.

Cost:
Usually a flat roof is significantly cheaper than a pitched roof.  However, depending on your location and susceptibility to excessive rainfall, the money you save on roof installation for a flat roof could be needed for future repairs.  It is more expensive to repair a flat roof than a pitched roof, so paying more for a pitched roof up front might be more affordable in the long run.

Structure:
While cost is an important factor in any kind of home improvement project, choosing between a flat roof or pitched roof really comes down to your location and preferences. A pitched roof provides more structure and stability than a flat roof, and they are also better equipped to handle large amounts of rain, so be sure to make location and weather a primary factor in your decision. However, don't forget to think about your own personal tastes. If you want your home to convey a modern look, choose a flat roof or a pitched roof with as little slope as possible.

If you're ready to install a new roof, then it's time to call in the professionals! Here at Phil's Main Roofing, services include flat roofs, modified roofing, roof drainage and re-pitching, as well as repair and maintenance programs. Our dedicated team of roofers will work with you to make sure you have the optimal roofing system and will use the top roofing materials when working on your home.

Achieve the home of your dreams today - call us at 203-838-4545 to schedule your free estimate or visit us online at www.philsmainroofing.com for more information.

Do You Need Gutters On Your Home?

Phil's Main Roofing 

(203) 838-4545

www.philsmainroofing.com

Image courtesy of Flickr

If you're thinking about re-roofing your home, knowing exactly what is involved is vital. Often, home owners are unclear about whether or not installing gutters is an essential part of the roofing process, and the answer is typically yes. Gutters are an extension of the roofing system whose primary function is to direct water away from your home, so having gutters makes your home better prepared for any precipitation that may occur. Here are the top 10 reasons why you should have gutters installed:

1. Prevent Water in the Basement: Most water problems in the basement are directly linked with improper water shedding. If the landscape of your location slopes towards your home, then an excessive amount of water can end up right at your home's foundation. This may lead to cracks, leaks, flooding, and moisture, which results in unnecessary water, mold, and mildew damage.

2. Protect Exterior Walls: When water drips off the roof it can splash dirt and moisture on the exterior walls of your home. This could result in staining, rotting, or premature weathering of your homes exterior materials.

3. Prevent Soil Erosion: Properly guiding excess water away from the home and reducing the amount of energy created by falling water helps to prevent the erosion of the foundation. It also helps prevent erosion of any soil surrounding your home.

4. Protect Landscaping: While we know water is important for our grass and gardens, too much water can actually kill shrubs, grass and other plants.

5. Protect Fascia: Gutters with the correct flashing or apron will stop water from running over the lip of the roof and going back up under the roof (or fascia), which could cause damage down the line.

6. Protect Decks and Railings: Deck boards and railings are subject to damage by the drip-line created by a roof that is lacking a properly installed gutter system.

7. Protect Driveways, Concrete Slabs and Walkways: Excessive water falling from the roof can wash out the fill below your driveway, concrete slabs and sidewalks. When this happens, it can cause sinking and cracking.

8. Provide Winter Safety: Melted snow can freeze on your sidewalks and driveways, and the salts or other chemicals used to melt the ice can reduce the lifespan of your concrete or ashpalt. With gutters, the likelihood of this problem can be reduced.

9. Keep You Dry: Drip-lines created by a roof without gutters can create a sheet of water during storms that make it difficult to leave your home without getting wet.

10. Collect Rainwater For Irrigation: Collecting rainwater from the roof for irrigation on lawns and gardens is quickly becoming popular. Having gutters can assist you in this process, and could ultimately lower utility bills for those who use this method.

Now that you know how beneficial having gutters can be, are you ready to take the initiative to better your home? At Phil's Main Roofing, we will repair and install the most effective gutter system for your home or commercial building, ensuring that you're prepared for any potential damaging situations.  

Call us at 203-838-4545 to schedule your FREE estimate or visit us online at www.philsmainroofing.com today.