Lyons Roofing

Roof Replacement and Repair Contractor Louisville, KY and Indiana

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

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.

Leaky Roof?

by Leave a Comment

So there you are. Sitting in your kitchen enjoying a nice dinner, slow steady rain beating on your windows. The distant crack of thunder and flash of lighting makes you think, how much longer will this last. Then all of the sudden drip right on your kitchen table from that leaky roof.

leaky roof

When did we get a leaky roof?

 

The first logical thing you do is say a few choice words. Then walk outside and look up to diagnose the problem yourself. Hey, what do you know about roof problems and leaks you ask yourself? Then you make the dreaded call to your local roofing contractor.

 

You are in luck, or are you?

 

If you are, fortunate you just had your roof replaced a few years’ prior and it is still under warranty. You call your previous contractor and let them know the location and severity of the leak and they schedule a time to come look at the issue.

 

If you are unfortunate, you had your roof replaced a few years prior and call your contractor they do not answer or they are no longer in business. Maybe worse, you have not had your roof replaced or you just bought the house and are not sure if there is any type of warranty on the roof.

 

What is the problem?

 

If you happen to be, one of the fortunate ones and your roof was recently replaced, your roofing contractor is reliable and stands behind his work, and then you should not have a problem. The contractor will come out, assess the problem, and promptly resolve it.

Owens Corning

Chances are, it is something minor that can be addressed quickly. It may be a faulty pipe collar, or something damaged from the storm. Either way a reliable contractor will address the problem promptly and get you back to your family life.

 

If you are not one of the fortunate ones you have one of two options.

 

  1. Climb up and try to assess and fix the problem yourself.
  2. Call a Roofing contractor that knows what they are doing and let them worry about it.

 

Now you would think, this is a no brainer. Who would not call a contractor to fix a leaky roof? Well I am in no way against a DIY repair and if you can handle it I am ok with that. Let me warn you though, you could potentially cost yourself more money. You could go up there, throw a bunch of tar on it and call it a day. It may work, more than likely it wont on the long term. You then have to pay a contractor more money to fix the tar mess and the roof leak, not to mention any interior damage that comes from the leak.

leaky roof 1

I know, I know, you are saying of course a “roofing contractor” would tell me to call a contractor. I can do it myself and save myself some money. Do us all a favor, call a roofer and have it fixed right the first time. Save yourself money, the risk and ultimately the time, have it fixed the right way.

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.