Lyons Roofing

Roof Replacement and Repair Contractor Louisville, KY and Indiana

CALL TODAY
Louisville: (502) 689-0338
Indiana: (812) 294-3595

Do you have bump’s on your roof?

by Leave a Comment

 

Have you ever looked up when pulling into the driveway and seen random bumps on your roof? On the other hand, what about long raised sections systematically lifting up all over your roof? If so, you could have a major problem!

 

What causes bumps on your roof?

 

Lets start with the small random bumps on your roof. Multiple things could cause these small raised sections. Most commonly know as nail pops, these areas are caused by either a roofing nail not being driven all of the way in or one that gets driven in side ways and will hold the shingle up just slightly.

 

buckled plywood

On the other hand what about the long raised up sections that seem to be showing up systematically on your roof? This is a easy problem to diagnose, but not very easy to fix. The fix on this is something that can be very intrusive. However, we will dive into that later. These long raised up sections are from improperly nailed roof decking. If your home has plywood decking below your shingles and the plywood was not nailed properly. In time the decking will start to warp and curl on the ends causing these raised sections.

 

How to fix bumps on your roof

 

            Nail Pops:

 bumps on roof

Small areas otherwise known as nail pops can be easily fixed by a homeowner if they can safely do so. In most cases, a simple hammer on the nail will take care of the problem. However, if your shingles are sealed to the point where you cannot safely pull them apart without tearing them then you may need the help of a professional to take care of the problem.

 

If you are fortunate to still be under your roof warranty this is something that will be covered under labor warranties. If not depending on how many nail pops you have on your home you may have to shell out a few hundred dollars to have a company come in and fix the problem.

 

            Buckled Plywood:

 

What if you are one of the unlucky ones that has the problem of buckling plywood? This is most likely something you will have to consult a professional contractor on. It can be a possible easy fix, but you would have to go to every raised section and drive screws into the decking to try to pull it straight back to the rafters. However, if you put the screws through the shingles then you will have the perfect storm for leaks all over your roof. Even if you put the screws through the lower layer of shingles, you could great the opportunity for a leak.

 

nail pops

 

The only way to properly fix this is during the full replacement of the roof. At that time, a contractor can address the raised decking and if needed replace any decking that has warped beyond repair.

 

Regardless of small bumps or larger raised ridges along your roofline, if you have a steeper pitched roof you should contact a professional contractor. It is much safer and can take care of the problem without having to leave the comfort of flat ground. Yes, it may cost you a few dollars but at least you know the work will be done right and done the first time.

Add Another Layer to your Roof?

by Leave a Comment

Should you Add another layer to your roof?

Tear off or add another layer

Is it time to replace your roof? I know we all dread that day! So why not just add another layer to your roof and avoid the cost of labor and dump fees to remove that old roof? Is it a viable option, or should you just replace the whole roof and call it a day?

 

So what is the big deal anyway, why cant you just throw another layer of shingles on top of the existing?

 

In some cases, you can. However, most building codes limit a home to only having two layers, most homes can handle two layers but adding a third can greatly stress rafters and other structural parts of your home. Additionally, make sure that the product you decide to use warranties this type of application.

 

Why you should not add another layer to your roof

 

We talked about the basics, to much weight, against code, warranties. Why are those important factors? I mean it is the same thing on top of another right?

 

First, roofing material suppliers want their products to last. Layering shingles in the eyes of a manufacturer diminishes the overall performance of their product; if they say it is a lifetime shingle and it only lasts 17 years, you would be pretty upset right?

 

Multiple layers means more wear and tear on the new shingles, the layer below can create an effect that traps heat in and hurts the overall life expectancy of the shingle. The shingles are not able to breath and any cool air that your attic ventilation brings in will be used to cool the bottom layer instead of your newer higher performing layer.

 

Weight from multiple layers

 

Your home is a machine, designed to perform in a certain way for its life. Any change in design that you may cause can have detrimental effects over the life of your home, including adding multiple layers of shingles.

 

Bet you are probably sitting there looking up at your ceiling and wondering, how much weight does it really add?

 

Let us say you have an average size home (35 sq.) you decide to add an additional layer of Owens Corning Duration coming in at lets say 70 lbs. a bundle now with this particular shingle you are looking at three bundles per square. That comes out to a total of an additional 7,350 lbs. on your roof. Yes, if you have one layer on your roof, your home will more than likely hold it and you will never know the difference. However, you could be just setting yourself up for some major settling and structural issues down the road.

 

However, ask yourself this, would you park an Escalade on your home and not worry about it?

 

So there, you have it, just a few reasons why some roofing contractors may try to talk you out of a second layer. Do not think they are just trying to talk you out of it because it only means more on the total bill right now. They more than likely have your interest at heart and I know if Lyons Roofing Company is going to put their name on it, we want it to last. I am sure plenty of other companies feel the same way.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What Gutter Guard system protects the best?

by Leave a Comment

One of our readers asked a great gutter guard (protection) question on the post “How to maintain your new roof”. We thought why not go into a little more detail and answer the question not for one but for all!

“The dead leaves and acorns are really a great problem for us. It gets accumulated so quickly that we need to clear out the debris every week or two. Is there any alternative solution to this? Please suggest.”

From Dakwerken

gutter guard needed

Yes, we know this could be brief. Cut all the trees down around your home and away goes the problem! However, for all of the people out there that enjoys shade, or the look of trees throughout their yard, or even the clean air they produce for the world, (I am one of those people) there is a simpler alternative.

We all know there are a million different types of gutter guards available. However, did you know, not every gutter guard is always right for your particular situation. Depending on the surrounding tree types, you could be in a world of hurt if you select the wrong type of gutter protection.

Now let us be honest here. Most of the information I am relaying is straight from the horse’s mouth and by horse; I mean data from Consumer Reports of different systems. What better information to relay than from a consumer prospective.

Here are the top, mid and bottom scorers of Gutter Guard systems, you may be surprised at where yours falls.

The systems below will have to be purchased and installed by a certified installer, the bad news, pricey. The good news, it will more than likely come with free gutter cleaning if they are clogged.

Fine screen mesh (leafFilter):

leaf filter

Out of 13 different systems tested, this system had the best performance. Granted, it is one of the more expensive systems around at $20 a foot. Why is it so great you ask? The system according to consumer reports handles build up “excellent” and heavy flow “very good” but like most, falls down to “good” under severe flow conditions.

Surface Tension (LeafGuard):

 leaf guard

Now let me be honest here. This system came in 3rd out of 6 in the “Pro-installed” category. It had the same performance as leafFilter but (there is always a but). This system came in at the highest price at $30 a foot.

Surface Tension (GutterHelmet):

gutter helmet                       

Now here is a name you know and trust! As you can see it wasn’t at the top of the list, but why? Gutter Helmet does offer a great product; it is on the same line of pricing as LeafFilter at around $20 a foot. Why did it come in lower then? According to consumer reports, it does handle build up and heavy flow “very good” but like the other big hitters it doesn’t handle sever slow but “good”. Now you may say hey, “I can handle that every once in a while”.

Now for the fun part, The DIY gutter guard systems, you may be surprised at how they performed!

Fine screen mesh (Gutterglove Pro):

gutter glove pro 

(I think I am starting to notice a trend here with the “fine screen mesh” systems.)

Here is the surprising part. This system was rated the best out of every system on consumer reports. Do you not believe me? Check it out your self. This system came in “excellent” in 3 of the 4 categories, Buildup, Heavy flow and severe flow. So thank you Dakwerken after this research, I think its time to look into a new system for the Lyons Roofing Company.

Screen (Raindrop):

 rain drop

We have used this system in the past with mixed results. Consumer report shows it being “very good” with build up and “excellent” In heavy and severe rains. The cost coming in around $4.75 a foot makes this a very intriguing brand and system. It does come in as one of the hard to install, for the common homeowner.

gutter brish

So here we are, at the bottom. This system came in with the poorest rating. Not saying it may not be good in certain situations. As a contractor, we have always been leery of the “insert gutter guard systems”. There are way to many environmental aspects working against them. Think of a coffee filter, works great the first time, but the more coffee you put through it the more gunk builds up and then it is game over.

The system did handle heavy flow “Excellent” But came in at a measly “fair” with build up.

So there you have it, there are many ways to protect your gutters from debris (leafs and acorns). Or whatever other tree debris you may have. Take the time to talk to a qualified contractor about your gutter guard system. Just be careful they are not open to alternative suggestions of types of gutter guards. Just remember it is your home and your greatest investment. Take the time and make sure whatever system you use, it lasts for a lifetime.

 

 

Reliable Roofing Contractors and Long Lasting Relationships

by Leave a Comment

For commercial roofing, Louisville area businesses recognize the value of a trusted partner. Forming a long-standing relationship with a reliable roofing contractor can help your companies bottom line, keeping roof maintenance and repair costs predictable.

louisville

Roofing Systems

No roofing contractor expects commercial property owners to have complete knowledge of roofing systems. Commercial roofing systems could include single-ply, built-up, APP/SBS or any number of other roofing types. When you build a long-lasting relationship with a trustworthy and reliable roofing contractor, the contractor comes to know your roof better than anyone else. Familiarity with your building’s roofing system saves crew time and money.

buildings10

Lyons Roofing has extensive experience with all types of roofing, including energy-efficient modern methods like reflective single-ply systems. Lyons Roofing also knows how to get the longest possible service from existing roof materials, such as built-up roofing or modified bitumen.

When you hire a roofing contractor for season after season, your roof’s gradual wear becomes easier to monitor. You can work with your roofer to plan for future replacement without feeling a financial or time constraint.

New Roof

The best new commercial roofing products commercial property owners can get are those installed and maintained by the same company. The crew and superintendent installing the new roof will record important details about the roof deck, insulation and flashing. When the same company sends a maintenance crew out, those records will speed up any maintenance and repair work.

A new roof is a major capital investment. You should not consider giving the job to an untrusted, untested roofing contractor. By forging a long-standing relationship with a roofing contractor, you have the reassurance that the new roof will be done properly.

reliable roofingWarranty

Louisville area businesses can enjoy building a long-lasting partnership—ensuring the roofing warranty stays in force. If you cannot document regular maintenance, annual inspections and proper upkeep, the manufacturer may not honor a warranty claim. By using one roofer you can protect your investment for years to come.

From any aspect—maintenance, repair records, warranty preservation, or new roof—you are better off building a long-lasting relationship with your local roofing company than switching from contractor to contractor.

To begin building that long lasting relationship between your business and Lyons Roofing, contact our offices today.

Roofing Claim and Homeowner’s Insurance

by Leave a Comment

Have you ever experienced roof damage of some kind? You may wonder, is it time for a repair or full roof replacement? You may even be considering filing a roofing claim against your homeowner’s insurance policy.

In order to get the most out of your homeowner’s insurance policy, Lyons Roofing will help you get informed and take a few necessary precautions.

No need to be surprised by unexpected loopholes! We at Lyons Roofing want to do our best to make sure all of our customers and readers are well prepared.

 

Will your Insurance Company accept your claim?

roofing claim 

Most people assume that that their roof damage will be covered under your insurance policy, hire a contractor, and then be surprised later when their claim is denied.

No one likes to be stuck with that unexpected expense of a roofing claim. Asking your roofing contractor or insurance company questions ahead of time can help you avoid the headache and drama. Reasons for a denied roofing claim can vary, but could include any of the following:

  • The type of roofing materials you use,
  • A full roof replacement instead of a roof repair,
  • Homeowner negligence,
  • Improper prior installation
  • Everyone’s favorite “this damage is caused by age”(sometimes granule loss can be age related).

 

Accept Bids From High Quality Roofing Contractors

 Lyons Roofing Truck with New Wrap

Your insurance company may insist that you receive multiple roofing estimates from a wide variety of contractors. You are in no way obligated to do this. You are also not obligated to use a particular roofing contractor. Trust your insurance companies opinion though and at least vet out the contractors they endorse. There is a reason they are endorsed, these are contractors they know are knowledgeable and wont leave the customers with a subpar product..

Some Insurance companies have been known to only approve the lowest bid, which could leave you with a sub-standard roofing job. So make sure you do your homework and fight for the contractor you feel the most comfortable with. After all, you do pay premiums. Make sure you get the final product you want and deserve.

 

Do not Think The Leftover Claim Money is Yours

 Throwing-money-RF

Some homeowners assume that if they can get a roofing estimate lower than the insurance company’s estimate, they will be able to pocket the remaining money. In truth, the insurance company will only pay the final charges on the roofing contractor’s bill. Taking a lower bid could only put you at risk for a subpar job and years of headaches.

 

Do your own research and you will be able to successfully file a claim for roof repairs on your homeowner’s insurance. If you have any questions, you cannot find the answer on. Feel free to contact Lyons Roofing and if we cannot answer it, we will contact the insurance company for you to get your questions answered.