A Guide To Removing Algae From Roofs

by Ben Johnson | Mar 3, 2024 | Roof Maintenance

Got Roof Algae? Here’s a Guide To Removing Algae From Roofs and More

What do overhanging branches, clogged gutters, standing water, and poor ventilation have in common? They can all cause roof algae.

Roof algae is an issue that many homeowners face, and many find themselves unable to fix it. That’s where we come in. Read on, and we’ll tell you all about removing algae from roofs and how to prevent it in the future.

What Is Roof Algae?

Gloeocapsa magma, commonly known as roof algae, is a dark, mold-like substance that appears on roofs. It’s most commonly found in warm, humid climates and can cause an unsightly appearance. Roof algae is characterized by dark stains and streaks or can appear as white or green markings across the roof.

How to Remove Algae From a Roof

If you’ve noticed some attractive coloring or moss growth on your roof, you’re probably wondering how you can get rid of it quickly – and quickly is the keyword here. If you don’t act fast, the problem can rapidly get worse.

We recommend having a roofing professional tackle roof algae removal. However, if you consider yourself handy and aren’t afraid of climbing ladders, there is a method you can try:

Water and Bleach Mixture | The most common method of removal is a mixture of water and bleach with a 10:1 ratio. Pour the mixture over the infected area and let it sit for a half hour to 45 minutes. Once the mixture is set, rinse the area with water.

Note: We cannot stress this enough – do NOT power wash the roof; it will damage it. The algae will take some time to come off with this solution; just be patient.

For directions on creating the right cleaning mixture for your roof material, refer to this helpful article.

Again, this method is for those who feel capable of fixing household problems themselves and are comfortable up on their own roofs. If you are not one of these people, have no fear; there are professionals who can remove the roof algae stress-free.

How to Prevent Roof Algae From Forming

If the algae on your roof has been banished (either by you or a professional), the next step is to take preventative measures to avoid the algae returning. Even if you live in a humid climate, a rainy climate, or you deal with overgrown trees, there are still ways of keeping the algae at bay.

GAF’s Anti-Algae Technology | GAF’s Advanced Algae Protection with Time-Release Algae-Fighting Technology, featuring thousands of copper microsites, efficiently releases algae-fighting copper over time, offering long-lasting protection against blue-green algae discoloration on roofs.
Consistent Gutter Cleaning & Roof Inspections | It’s vital to have regular maintenance scheduled for gutter cleaning and roof inspections. Make the maintenance of your roof a priority, and you’ll save time and money in the long run – not to mention your house will look its very best.
Regular Maintenance and Gutter Cleaning | Ensure there’s never any standing water on your roof, and if possible, trim any trees that may shed onto the roof or block the sunlight.

When to Call a Roofing Professional for Help

Contact a roofing professional the day you notice signs of discoloration, watermarks, dark spots, peeling paint, mold on your chimney, rotting wood, or crumbling drywall– it could be a sign of potential algae growth on your roof. The longer you wait, the harder it will be to treat. It’s never a wrong time to ask for the help of a professional.

Call Werner Roofing for High-Quality Roofing Services in West Michigan

At Werner Roofing in West Michigan, we aim to provide high-quality roof installation, repair, and replacement. We have over 30 years of experience in the industry, use only the highest quality materials from top brands, and pride ourselves on honesty and integrity. We’re proud of our service and team, and we’re happy to come out and take a look at your roof and offer a few suggestions to help treat your roof algae issues.

Here’s Everything You Need To Know About Roofing Contractor Proposals

by Ben Johnson | Jan 15, 2024 | Roof Maintenance, Roof Repair, West Michigan Roofing Blog

Finding the right person to install a new roof on your home isn’t always easy. Roofing can be a major expense, so it’s crucial to make sure you choose the right roofing contractor to do the job. Do you know what you should look for in a good roofing contractor and roofing proposal? If not, don’t worry – we’re here to help!

Our Guide to Roofing Proposals

As a homeowner, collecting bids from several roofing contractors and choosing the best fit for your preferred budget, materials, and timeframe is helpful. To select the option that’s best for you, though, you need to know a little about understanding roofing contractor proposals.

Let’s break down the roofing proposal process so you know exactly what to look at and how to tell which roofing contractor is the best choice for your home.

What Info to Provide for a Roofing Proposal:

First things first – before a contractor can create a proper proposal, they’ll need some information from you first.

Budget – You’ll need to tell potential roofers how much you’re willing to spend on your new roof. Though you might not have a specific number in mind yet, do a little research to see what is reasonable for the material you’re looking for and the size of your home to give potential contractors a ballpark figure to start with.
Preferred Material – Are you looking for a metal roof? Asphalt? Or something different, like ceramic tile? Whatever aesthetic you’re going for, you’ll want to let your roofer in on it so they can create a proposal that reflects the end goal. Remember that different materials, finishes, and colors have varying price points.
Timeframe – Do you need your roof completed by a specific time? If you’re building a new home, the time frame will be essential because you’ll have to have a roof installed before moving on to interior construction. The timeframe may be more flexible if you’re re-roofing an existing home.
Description of any Current Problems – Any reputable roofer will inspect your roof before they give you a final estimate. If there are any issues you know about beforehand, you’ll want to share this with potential roofers. Then, they can put the price of those additional fixes into their proposal, giving you a fair look at how much you’ll be spending.

Once you’ve given roofers a basic idea of what you’re looking for in your roofing project, they’ll assemble a proposal and send it to you. The proposal should outline everything the roofer plans to do, when they plan to do it, and how much it will cost.

What to Look For in a High-Quality Roofing Proposal:

When evaluating roofing proposals, knowing what exactly you should be looking for is crucial. Let’s dive in!

Materials Used – The roofer should include exactly which roofing materials they plan on using, including the name of the manufacturer, the style of the shingle, and the grade of the material. This will allow you to compare multiple proposals and better understand what quality to expect from each roofer.
Scheduling – A roofing proposal should also include a detailed schedule of when everything will happen. Most roofing jobs shouldn’t take that long, but they are inconvenient for those who live in the home, so it’s important to know when roofers will be there and how long it will take them to finish the job.
Explanation of Liabilities – A quality roofing proposal should explain any potential liabilities and how the roofer’s insurance will cover those liabilities in the event of an accident. This will tell you what insurance the roofer has. If they don’t have insurance, you’re liable for any injury on your property, and it’s possible your roof won’t comply with the local building code.
How Waste Will be Removed – Roofing is a messy job. Nails and shingles are flying everywhere! You need to ensure that whoever you hire has a plan to clean that mess up before they leave, and the proposal should state how they plan to clean up. Many roofers have a giant magnet that picks up any fallen nails, and others make sure to throw all old shingles and waste into a giant dumpster they provide. No matter the method, make sure they offer clean-up, or you may end up paying a lot more.

Explanation of Warranty – Roofs often have multiple warranties. There’s a warranty on materials and another on the work the roofer and crew complete. The proposal should outline the specifics of each warranty and explain what is covered under each warranty.
How the Roof Will be Paid For – A quality proposal outlines what you must pay and when. Some roofers take payment in installments, while others prefer part up front and the second part when the work is completed.
Additional Costs – If there are any additional costs associated with your roofing job (repairing subroofing, installing flashing around the chimney, etc.), the proposal should also outline those.

Things to Double-Check Roofing Proposals For:

While everything on a roofing proposal is important, there are a few things you’ll want to double-check for. Remember that a quality roofer should already include these items. A shadier roofer might leave them out to get your business and charge you more later.

Itemized List of Costs – Not every roofer offers an itemized list of costs automatically, but if you’re comparing bids, it’s a good thing to ask for. An itemized list tells you exactly what you’re paying for each aspect of your roof, from labor to material costs.
Licensure and Workers Compensation – Ensure that any roofer you hire is licensed and provides workers’ compensation to their crew members. This protects you from any liabilities that occur on your property.
Acknowledge Regional Nuances – Be mindful of local regulations or variations that might impact the specifics of roofing proposals in your area. These guidelines can influence material choices, installation methods, or waste disposal practices, making it essential to ensure proposals align with local standards.

Understanding Proposals and Trusting Werner Roofing

In the end, when choosing a roofing contractor, read through each proposal thoroughly. The best roofing contractors will be as upfront as possible with cost estimates. They will have the necessary permits, licensing, and insurance to protect their crew and your home.

If the roofing proposals you’ve been looking at still don’t make sense, feel free to call Werner Roofing. We’ve been working in the area for decades and provide roofing services you can trust. For a free estimate, call our office at 616-844-5382 or request for a free roofing estimate online today!

Can I Stay in My House When I Replace My Roof? Here’s What You Need to Know

by Ben Johnson | Nov 28, 2023 | Roof Replacement

When it comes to replacing your roof, many homeowners are faced with the common question, “Can I stay in my house when I replace my roof?”

It’s a valid concern, as a roof replacement is a significant home improvement project that can disrupt your daily life. In this blog, we’ll delve into everything you need to know about the process of replacing a roof.

Where Do I Go When I Replace My Roof?

Clients often ask us if they will be able to stay in their home while their roof is being repaired or replaced. To answer this question, yes – you can remain in your home during your roof project.

On average, the roof replacement process for a single-family home takes a few days. You can count on two days as the minimum and a week as the maximum time frame (barring extreme weather conditions or major complications).

Most roofers conduct their business during the weekdays when homeowners work, so there’s minimal disruption. Though our crews are respectful and professional, replacing a roof is a lot of construction. If you work from home or spend most of your time at home during the week and you’re not sure you’ll be able to stand the noise for the length of the day, it might be a good idea to get out of the house, at least while the roofers are working.

How To Prepare for Your Roof Replacement

To help you prepare for getting your roof replaced, we’ve listed some helpful tips below to ensure you and your home stay safe throughout the installation process.

If you’re still concerned staying in your house is the best option for you, don’t hesitate to give your roofer a call. They’ll be able to walk you through what to expect and let you know how long your installation will likely take.

1. Inform and prepare your Children

If children will be in the house while your roof is being replaced, it’s important to keep them informed about the process and establish some additional safety guidelines.

Encourage them to stay inside and enjoy indoor activities during this period, and emphasize the importance of staying indoors while the roofing professionals are at work. The roofer will need to remove your old roof before installing the new one, resulting in a considerable amount of debris falling to the ground. This debris poses a potential safety hazard for children, so it’s essential to be vigilant and ensure their safety.

2. Keep Your Pets inside and Safe

Even if you plan to stay in your home while your roof is being replaced, it’s best to consider removing or securing your pets. Similar to a thunderstorm, some animals can find the roofing process loud and distressing. They also might not react well to strangers being at their homes for an extended period.

If you are unable to find alternative housing for your pets during this time, we suggest securing your pets in a calm, quiet room where they can have some relief from the noise, such as in a basement.

3. Remove Your Cars

As a general guideline, relocating your vehicle from your property is advisable during the roofing process. If you typically park in the driveway, there’s a risk of falling debris potentially damaging your vehicle.

If your usual parking spot is the garage, the construction work may dislodge tools and items hanging from the walls, which could inadvertently cause damage to your car. To err on the side of caution, it’s recommended to park your vehicle on the street while the roofing work is underway.

4. Protect Outdoor Furniture and Landscaping

Professional roofers will lay down tarps to catch debris and patrol the property with a magnet after the job is done to collect any stray nails or hardware. But roofing is notoriously messy – it is what it is!

If you have any outdoor furniture, grills, or other valuables outside your home, it’s best to move them during roof replacement. Falling debris from the roof could damage your property, so it’s best to keep them safe from harm.

Also, if you want to protect any landscaping around your property, it won’t hurt to lay out a few of your own tarps to ensure nothing unwanted falls on your plants and flowers.

At Werner Roofing, we prioritize minimizing debris on your property. So, we’ve made significant investments in using tools like the Equipter to keep your home relatively free of debris during the roof replacement process. The Equipter is an excellent asset that aids in collecting and containing debris, showcasing our commitment to maintaining a clean work environment and preserving your property. While it’s important to note that the Equipter may not be utilized in every job and might not catch everything, its use demonstrates our dedication to minimizing the impact of construction on your home.

5. secure fragile items indoors

Similarly to your outdoor furniture and plants, you should also take extra measures to protect any fragile items. Items on shelves and hanging on walls, such as heirlooms, glassware, frames, and valuable decor, can be disrupted by the vibrations of the roofer’s work and lead to accidents and damage.

It’s always better to be safe than sorry, so we recommend temporarily moving fragile items to a secure location within your home so you can have peace of mind.

Werner Roofing Is Here for All Your Roof Replacement Needs

If you’re ready to replace your roof, give Werner Roofing a call. We are a trusted, local West Michigan roofing company known for providing exceptional service and using top-of-the-line materials.

Are you unsure if it’s time to replace your roof? We can help with that, too! We’ll give you an honest assessment of where your roof is and let you know if you need a replacement. We know it can be challenging to make that final decision, so we’re here to help you in any way we can. Give our office a call at 616-844-5382 or contact us online today for your free roofing estimate.

OUR FREE ROOF INSPECTION

How do you know when it’s time for a new roof? The only way to be sure of your residential roof’s current condition is to have a licensed professional personally inspect it. Werner Roofing is proud to offer free roof inspections for every client, so you can be sure of your roof’s condition. Every Werner Roofing inspection comes complete with our promise: “We won’t recommend or sell a roof replacement unless it’s necessary.”

SCHEDULE A PROFESSIONAL INSPECTION

How Much Does a New Roof Increase Home Value? Here’s the Inside Scoop

by Ben Johnson | Nov 21, 2023 | Roof Replacement

Whether you’re thinking of listing your home soon or in the future, the overall value of your home is likely an important factor. Obviously, you want to sell your home for a profit, so you’ll need to add equity.

You’ve probably already boosted the value of your home by upgrading the appliances, knocking out a wall for an open floor plan, and renovating the kitchen, but there’s still more you can do!

So, if you’re asking yourself, “How much does a new roof increase home value?” we’ve got you covered.

Does a New Roof Increase Home Value?

Yes – upgrading the roof of your house can positively affect the property value. According to Zillow.com, a new asphalt roof can have an average ROI of 68.2%, with metal roofs at 60.9%.

How Does a New Roof Increase Home Value?

We understand that a roof replacement is a significant undertaking, but it can add serious value to your home when it comes time to sell. Read on for a breakdown of how installing a new roof can increase your home’s value.

1. Better Energy Efficiency

Modern roofs are considerably more energy efficient than outdated roofs. They offer better insulation and prevent heat from escaping in the winter. In the summer, they deflect the sun’s rays and keep your house cool. This provides added value for a buyer, as they’ll have to spend less on the long-term costs of heating and cooling the home.

2. Improved Curb Appeal

Frosting on top of the cake — that’s what buyers see when they drive up to a house with a brand-new roof. Curb appeal goes a long way to entice a buyer, and an updated roof can make your home stand out from the pack.

Although it’s unlikely that a visitor has ever pointed out the state of your roof, potential buyers will. A bad roof will be glaringly obvious, and a new roof will beautifully compliment your home’s exterior.

3. Reduced Likelihood of Costly Repairs

A state-of-the-art roof lets potential buyers know there is one less thing they have to worry about if they purchase the house. When you select durable, long-lasting materials, a new asphalt roof can last anywhere from 20-25 years, and a new metal roof could last up to 50 years! By pairing the longevity of a new roof and the decreased likelihood of needing costly repairs, you get a win-win for yourself and your home’s new owners.

4. Increased Marketability

Replacing the roof makes your home more marketable, attracts more buyers, and sells quickly. This is because the added benefits of a new roof will encourage buyers to submit their offers. The chances of receiving multiple offers go up when your home has a new roof, and it can even earn you some leverage when selecting an offer and entering contract negotiations.

5. Enhanced Home Safety

A new roof not only improves the aesthetic and functional aspects of your home but also enhances overall safety. Older roofs can have hidden issues like leaks, weakened structures, or mold growth, posing health and safety risks to the occupants.

Investing in a new roof gives potential buyers peace of mind, knowing they are purchasing a home with a secure and safe roofing system. This assurance of safety can be a compelling factor that increases your home’s value when it’s time to sell.

Ready to Replace Your Roof and Increase Your Home’s Value? Werner Roofing Can Help

With so many benefits for you and your home’s potential future owners, replacing the roof on your home is one of the most effective ways to raise the value of your home before a sale!

If you have more questions about replacing your roof, or if you’re interested in replacing your roof before you sell your home, feel free to contact the experts at Werner Roofing.

As a trusted, local roofer, we can give you a free roof replacement estimate and help you decide if roof replacement is the right option for your home. Give our office a call today at 616-844-5382!

3 Ways to Pay for a New Roof

by Ben Johnson | Apr 15, 2019 | Roof Replacement

Unlike a kitchen remodel or bathroom upgrade, a roof is a necessary home repair that just can’t wait — especially if you’ve recently experienced damage due to inclement weather or storms. So, what do you do if you need a new roof but aren’t sure how to pay for it? Here are four financing solutions if you’re wondering how to foot the bill.

How to Pay for a New Roof

Depending on the size of your home and the slope of your roof, installing a new roof can cost anywhere from a couple of thousand dollars to $10,000 or more. Here are four ways how to pay for a new roof that don’t involve you paying the entire fee upfront.

1. Insurance Coverage

One of the easiest ways to pay for a new roof is to get money from your insurance company. If something unexpected has occurred, like massive wind or weather damage, your insurance company will likely cover the cost of a new roof, especially if you’re proactive.

Homeowner insurance companies want to protect their investments, so if you’re working to keep your home as up-to-date and in shape as possible, they’ll likely help cover the cost of a new roof. Talk to your insurance agent to see what roofing coverage you qualify for.

2. Roofing Company Payment Plans

New roofs can be expensive, and roofers understand that. If you’ve just had your entire home’s roof completely redone, it can cost thousands of dollars, and it’s difficult to pay that cost all at once upfront. That’s why many roofing companies offer payment plans to help you cover the cost in installments. If you know you need a new roof but aren’t sure you’ll be able to pay for it all at once, just talk to your roofer. Most will be happy to work with you.

Werner Roofing is happy to offer financing plans. You can provide us with the necessary information in less than two minutes and discover if you’re pre-qualified. We offer monthly payments so you can pay off your new roof over time. Our financing program includes 12 months of no payments with no interest – you can’t beat that!

3. FHA Title 1 Home Improvement Loans

Another way to secure funding for a new roof is to opt for a loan. The Federal Housing Administration Title 1 Home and Property Improvement Loan is made available through specific lenders and is insured by the Department of Housing and Urban Development. This loan was created just for homeowners, and since the government insures it, it is a safe route to take if you’re not sure you can fund an entirely new roof project on your own.

To acquire a Title 1 loan, you’ll have to prove that your roof needs major repairs or a total roof replacement, but it is a valid option that helps many people pay for roofing and home improvement costs every year. With a Title 1 loan, you’ll have 20 years to pay back what you owe, but it’s good to know that loans over $7,500 must be secured by either your mortgage or deed of trust. If you cannot make payments and fall behind, the lender can seize those assets.

If you’re interested in an FHA Title 1 Loan, you should consult with a few lenders to ensure you get the best deal. This tool can find an approved Title 1 lender near you.

4. Personal Loans

In some cases, you may be able to use a personal loan to help fund your roof repairs or replacement. Visit your personal bank or financial institution and find out their interest rates and regulations regarding personal loans. Different creditors will offer varying rates and terms, so it’s best to shop around to find the best deal for you.

Some personal loans will be short-term and last between two and six years, and others will be long-term, which can last for 15 years or more. Depending on your credit score and income level, your interest rate could be lower than 5% or up to 20% or more.

We’re Here for All Your Roofing Needs

A new roof can be expensive, but it’s a necessary investment. If you need roofing repairs, don’t fret – you have options. Many resources are available to help you get started on that new roofing project.

Are you looking for a new roof in West Michigan? Werner Roofing can help. Whether you’re not sure about financing or want to get an estimate of how much a new roof might cost, we’d love to help. Give us a call at 616-844-5382 or contact us online today for your free roofing estimate and to talk about roof financing options with us.

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