Are you in the process of making choices for your new roof, and pulling out your hair over the myriad options? If so, then you could definitely benefit from a clear break-down of the different roofing materials available to you. Fortunately, you’ve come to the right place. Here are roofing materials explained:

Shingles.

Shingles are the least expensive option you have when it comes to roofing materials, and they come in a wide array of styles and colors. For example, you may choose simple asphalt shingles, plastic polymer shingles that look like slate, or super-thick architectural shingles. While shingles are inexpensive, they also carry the shortest life spans and may require more maintenance and repairs than many alternative materials.

Tile. Generally made of clay (but sometimes concrete), tile is one of the more expensive routes you can take when choosing a roofing material. However, tiles are very durable, and can last fifty years or more. Tile is well suited for Mediterranean or Spanish style housing, but there are also tiles made to look like slate or wood, which would be suitable for any style.

Wood. Wood shingles and shakes are made of rot-resistant wood, and they give a warm, natural look and feel to any home. Wood is in the mid-range when it comes to price, and it requires perhaps the most upkeep of all the roofing materials. Additionally, wood does not carry a very long lifespan and it is not very fire resistant (unless you have it specially treated).

Slate. This is the most expensive roofing material you can go with, but it is also the most durable and long lasting. As a matter of fact, a slate roof’s life span may be one hundred years or more. Slate is very heavy, and is only suitable for steeply pitched roofs. Therefore, you will need to ensure that your home’s foundation walls are strong enough to carry a slate roof before you commit. Your builder or architect can give you guidance in that arena.

Metal. Available in aluminum, steel, copper, or zinc alloy, metal roofing is a mid-range material when it comes to both cost and life span. You may choose to purchase the material in its natural finish, or even to install a sleek, painted version. Either way, metal roofing is a suitable option for virtually any type or style of home.

There is a lot to think about when it comes to choosing the best roof for your home. Experienced professionals can help you make that important decision, and can also bring your vision to life. To put your roofing project into the hands of a contractor you can trust, contact Lyons Roofing. We can be reached by phone, in Indiana at 812-294-3595 and in Kentucky at 502-689-0338. You can also request a free roofing estimate online

Replacing a roof is a fairly hefty expenditure for most families and businesses. For this reason, people often put it off for as long as possible. Unfortunately, there are some circumstances in which you should replace your roof right away, no matter what, and whether you want to or not. Do you fit into this category? Here are three reasons you know you need a new roof:

Dips in the roof.

It is easy to spot dips in the roof if you back far enough away from your house and look carefully. Dips in the roof are exactly what they sound like: areas in the roof that are dipping below other areas. They are often indicative of either rot or water swell in the foundation of the roof – both signs that it is time to replace your home’s topper. Also, remember that your entire roof should be one flat surface. Otherwise, your roofing material will have a hard time holding and it will be easy for puddles of moisture to build up. For this variety of reasons, you should consider replacing your roof if it is dipping.

Aged shingles.

Shingles that are curling up generally indicate that a roof has reached the end of its life. This is because it is easiest (and most likely) for shingles to curl when they have lost the entirety of their UV coating. You also need to pay attention to the amount of granules your shingles are losing. If it is an excessive amount, then that is a tell-tale sign that your old shingles need to be replaced for new ones.

Leaks.

You may be able to stretch the life of a leaky roof with repairs, but if you notice that the leaks seem to be larger, or multiplying, it is likely that you will need to replace your roof altogether. Keep in mind that some leaks are easier to spot than others. While a puddle in the floor is obvious, you also need to be on the lookout for discolorations on your ceiling. Any brown spots are indicative of moisture, which could be coming from a leaky roof.

There is a lot to think about when it comes to choosing the best roof for your home. Experienced professionals can help you make that important decision, and can also bring your vision to life. To put your roofing project into the hands of a contractor you can trust, contact Lyons Roofing. We can be reached by phone, in Indiana at 812-294-3595 and in Kentucky at 502-689-0338. You can also request a free roofing estimate online.

Your roof is a large investment. However, picking the best roofing contractor is just as big an investment time-wise. Many people even choose a new roof in the hopes that it will last as long as they live in that home. Because your roof is such a big deal, you need to put an ample amount of time and consideration into choosing the best fit for you, and hiring someone to install it. After all, the wrong install can make a good roof go bad.

Here are some pointers for how to pick the best residential roofing contractor:

Ask for referrals.

The best way to find a great roofer is the through the referral of a satisfied customer. Ask friends, family , and neighbors who recently had their roofs done. Also, check with local builders to see if they can make any recommendations.

Build a list of prospective contractors.

Once you have some referral contractors to call on, you can round out your list of candidates by checking with your local Chamber of Commerce for a list of contractors who are active in your area. Also, check online for roofing contractors local to you, and while you are there, read any customer reviews that you can find in order to narrow your list down to the contractors you are most interested in.

Interview prospective contractors.

Begin the conversation by letting them know you are shopping around to find the best person for the job. Your contractor of choice should be easy to talk to, open to listening to your inquiries, knowledgeable enough to provide you with the answers you need, and helpful enough to offer workable solutions for your project.

Verify credentials.

Once you have narrowed your list down to the contractors you are most interested in, you need to verify that they are licensed, insured, and bonded. On top of that, you should verify membership with builders associations, as well as any references.

Get quotes.

Get a few different quotes from your favorite candidates. If you are confident that each will do the job to your satisfaction, then your decision may come down to price. Just be sure to save this step for last, as you don’t want to make the mistake of getting price quotes too early on and choosing a contractor who gives you the lowest bid, and who might be less qualified.
There is a lot to think about when it comes to choosing the best roof for your home. Experienced professionals can help you make that important decision, and can also bring your vision to life. To put your roofing project into the hands of a contractor you can trust, contact Lyons Roofing. We can be reached by phone, in Indiana at 812-294-3595 and in Kentucky at 502-689-0338. You can also request a free roofing estimate online