Everything You Need to Know about GAF Energy Solar Roofs

Everything You Need to Know about GAF Energy Solar Roofs

As we ease into summer in Michigan, temperatures start to climb, as are our rising energy bills. We consume more energy to keep our homes ventilated and cool, while surrounded by plenty of summer sun that could be working for us. As we enjoy the heat and sunlight of a Michigan summer, it’s a great time to talk about solar roofs. 

GAF’s DecoTech system takes the best protective qualities of solar shingles with the high energy output capabilities of a traditional solar system and packages them in sleek and minimalist panels that seamlessly adapt to your roof design while maximizing your energy savings. The DecoTech system was designed with homeowners in mind. With an affordable solar solution that doesn’t stick out like the old solar panel technology, could it be time to look into a GAF Energy Solar Roof for your home? Let’s talk about solar roofs, and take a look at GAF’s revolutionary solar roof system.

Benefits of GAF Energy Solar Roofs

As solar technology is improving, panels are being streamlined for residential use, allowing more homeowners to enjoy the benefits of solar energy in their homes and everyday lives. Here are a few benefits of installing GAF Energy Solar Roofs for your home.

  • Clean energy is better for the environment. Solar roofs generate energy you can use to power your home, so you take less from the grid. It is a step toward reducing dependence on nonrenewable energy sources.
  • Less energy purchased from the electric company means you can enjoy reduced bills. You may also be eligible for significant tax benefits from investing in solar energy.
  • A GAF Energy Solar Roof works like shingles, so it sheds water and helps protect your home, keeping you dry and comfortable. Its minimalist design is very low-maintenance and will work for you every day of the year.
  • The DecoTech system is designed as an affordable solar roofing system. The simple design makes for a quicker and less expensive install, saving contractors and homeowners money.

Before, GAF Energy Solar Roofs, solar systems for residential roofs were expensive, unattractive, and incapable of generating significant energy. The GAF Energy Solar Roofing system offers the best in solar technology for the homeowner to increase their savings without sacrificing their home’s curb appeal.

GAF Energy Solar Roof Features

GAF’s DecoTech system has revolutionized the solar energy roof. Unlike solar shingles or other solar systems, GAF Energy Solar Roofs protect and defend your existing roof while generating power to offset your energy costs. Let’s explore some of the unique features this system has to offer.

Sleek Design

The DecoTech system is a low profile, seamless construction of interlocking panels and flashing components. The monochromatic finish gives it a sleek look that helps it blend in with the rest of your roof. The panels are mounted directly to the roof deck, and unlike traditional rack mounted models, the system is designed to fit close to the surface. 

The GAF Energy Solar Roof system is much less conspicuous and much more effective than traditional raised panels. Instead of exposed wires and spaces for animals to crawl into, which creates an eyesore for homeowners and neighbors, the DecoTech system fits close to your roof and doesn’t leave space for pests or moisture to get around the edges. Concealed wires and components increase product durability and safety, and complete the minimalist style. 

Easy Installation

The DecoTech system works best when installed with other GAF roofing products. The full size, interlocking panels are intuitive to assemble and can be largely set up on the ground before being attached directly to the roof deck. The DecoTech system comes with upgraded fasteners and fewer fastening points, which cuts down the time needed to properly secure it to the roof. The quick and straightforward installation process of GAF Energy Solar Roofs saves time and money for both contractors and homeowners. 

High Efficiency

GAF Energy Solar Roofs effectively capture solar energy for serious savings. The 285W panels offer as much electricity production as the typical rack mounted systems, but without the visual inconvenience. As a more space and energy efficient system, DecoTech’s high output panels outperform the competition. If you’re ready to generate your own energy and see reductions on your monthly utility bills, GAF Energy Solar Roofs can help you meet your goals. 

Protective Barrier

Unlike other solar roof systems, DecoTech panels work like shingles in that they act as a moisture, wind, and pest barrier for your roof. They fit closely with your other roofing materials and shed water, effectively protecting your home from the dangers of mold, mildew, and rot. GAF Energy Solar Roofs are also UL tested for fire, impact, electrical grounding, uplift resistance, and wind driven rain resistance.

Quality Guaranteed

The DecoTech system is covered by a 25 year warranty to protect you against defects from manufacturing and power generation. When combined with GAF roofing products and installed GAF Solar Elite or Master Elite installer, you may be eligible for extended warranty options including coverage for any problems related to installation or workmanship.

Who Uses GAF Energy Solar Roofs

GAF Energy Solar Roofs are designed to appeal to homeowners and residential roofs. The DecoTech system’s streamlined design and high potential for energy savings are priced at an affordable level to allow everyone to participate in clean, green energy. As more are able to access solar technology, homeowners are seeing the value of their investment in GAF Energy Solar Roofs. 

If you’re interested in installing a solar roof on your home, reach out to Werner Roofing. We’re proud to be Master Elite Certified Installers of GAF products and can help you make the most of solar energy in your home. Reach out to us to request your free, no-obligation quote today.

FREE ROOF INSPECTION & QUOTE

If you’re considering a new roof, the first step is to have us come out for a FREE inspection. This will allow us to evaluate your roof and give an honest estimate based on your roof’s current condition.

ASK A ROOFING QUESTION

Do you have a roofing question? We’re here to help. Just let us know what you’re wondering about, and one of our representatives will get back with you shortly.

The 5 Best Types of Gutters For Your Home

The 5 Best Types of Gutters For Your Home

There are many types available, so it can be hard to choose the best types of gutters for your home. This important level of protection means you need to make a good choice in the material and style. We’re going to look at 5 best types of gutters for a variety of homes, classified by material. Some gutter types can be made seamless, which can provide many advantages for an extra cost. Ultimately, your choice will depend on the style and durability you require of your gutters, as well as the budget you’re working with.

Best Types of Gutters

Different materials vary in their strength, durability, cost, and ease of assembly. The five best types of gutters are vinyl, aluminum, galvanized steel, stainless steel, and copper.

Vinyl Gutters

Vinyl gutters are popular because they are very simple to install. Sections snap together easily and can be installed by a homeowner with little experience. Vinyl will never rust, and its lightweight material makes it inexpensive. Vinyl is the best type of gutter if you’re looking for something effective on a budget.

Vinyl gutters don’t last as long as other gutter types because over time the material can become brittle and crack, especially in cold temperatures. It will likely need replacing faster than other gutter systems, but the savings are hard to beat.

Aluminum Gutters

Aluminum gutters are also very lightweight, but unlike vinyl, they are rust-proof and weather resistant. They are also a cost-effective gutter option, depending on whether you choose primary or secondary aluminum. Primary aluminum is thicker and stronger, where secondary aluminum is a little thinner as it’s made of mostly recycled materials. 

Aluminum that is less strong can be dented by hail or branches and misshapen by ladders. Aluminum has the advantage of being available in seamless varieties. This increases its durability, but also the cost.

Galvanized Steel Gutters

Galvanized steel gutters are very strong and very sturdy. They are a long-lasting gutter option and not as susceptible to dents like aluminum. Galvanized steel is vulnerable to rust, however, and will eventually need to be replaced for this reason. 

Stainless Steel Gutters

Stainless steel is as sturdy and long-lasting as its galvanized cousin, but it is also rust-proof, and therefore resistant to weather. This added durability comes with a higher price tag, sometimes twice or three times as expensive as cheaper gutter types. However, stainless steel is the best type of gutter for the homeowner that doesn’t want to worry about having to replace them. 

Stainless steel gutters can also be made seamless, which increases their capability and strength.

Copper Gutters

Copper gutters are the most expensive gutter type, even more than stainless steel. They are just as sturdy and weather resistant, but the copper finish makes them the most attractive gutter type. Copper gutters are noticeable on a home’s exterior and add to its curb appeal. 

Some home styles particularly benefit from the addition of copper gutters. This factor makes it the best type of gutter if curb appeal is your most important consideration, particularly if it’s more important than price. 

Seamless vs. Sectional Gutters

As mentioned earlier, some gutter types can be made seamless, while others are only available in sectional varieties. The advantage of seamless gutters is that they have fewer weak points. Over time, erosion from water or other traveling debris can get stuck on and widen gaps in the sections, particularly in economy gutters. 

Seamless gutters eliminate these holding points, making for a longer-lasting design. It’s the best type of gutter if you want your investment in your gutters to be protected. Aluminum and stainless steel are a few examples of gutter types that can be made seamless. Your gutter supplier will be able to help you choose the best seamless gutter type for your home.

And the Winner Is… You

All of these gutter options will provide a quality service to you and your home, helping to collect excess rainwater and channel it away from vulnerable places on your home’s exterior. The deciding factors for the best type of gutters are going to depend on you and your home’s needs. 

Would you rather spend a little extra for added durability, or do you want to complete your new gutter project on a tight budget? Vinyl and aluminum will be inexpensive options, but aluminum could be the more durable choice. 

Is the appearance of your gutters important to you, or is their only purpose efficiency? Copper is the most attractive but probably the most expensive. The best-looking for its value is probably seamless stainless steel.

Are you planning to have help installing your gutters, or do you plan to DIY? Vinyl sectional gutters can be assembled and installed with ease, while some of the heavier materials might require professional assistance.

No matter what type of gutter you’re looking for, Werner Roofing can help. While we specialize in seamless gutters, which really make your life easier, we also install more traditional vinyl gutters, too. Request a free, no-obligation quote today!

Do I Need to Clean my Metal Roof?

Do I Need to Clean my Metal Roof?

While metal roofs generally require very little maintenance, cleaning your metal roof will help keep it looking and working great, year after year. If your metal roof is painted or has a special coating, it’s especially important to keep it clear of debris and residue. The coating is there to protect the metal from breaking down. Even though it’s been formulated to stand up to the elements, regular cleaning will help it do its job to protect your roof.

You should plan to clean your metal roof at least once per year, or when you notice a buildup of debris, stains, mildew, moss, or mold.

Why You Should Clean Your Metal Roof

Keeping your metal roof clean is a great way to extend its life, maintain its appearance, and protect your home. Over time, UV rays and contact with oxygen in the air will naturally cause the paint to break down. If you’ve noticed a white, dusty residue on your roof’s surface this is known as chalking — a common sign that oxidation has started to wear the surface of the paint. It doesn’t mean your roof is compromised, but it is a sign that you need to clean your roof. 

Excessive chalking is not typically covered in warranties, mostly because it’s easy to prevent. Regular maintenance like cleaning and spot touch-ups will help minimize the effects of oxidation and protect your investment in your metal roof.

Cleaning your metal roof is easy to do, and it’s a simple way to prevent rust stains and the growth of moss, mildew, or mold. When cleaning, you’ll want to remove any dirt, leaves, pollen, tree sap, and acid or substances deposited from rain.

What You Need to Clean Your Metal Roof 

To clean your metal roof, all you need is a washcloth, sponge, soft-bristled brush, or cleaning pad. It’s important to only use non-abrasive materials. Scratches to the paint may cause it to degrade faster as oxidation can reach further into the surface.

In most cases, you can just use water with your cleaning tool to remove debris. If there is some buildup of sap, grease, or other substances, you can add a mild detergent to the water to help break it up. Laundry detergent, detergent for car-washing, or dish soap are gentle enough to use on metal roofs. Bleach, rubbing alcohol, or mineral spirits can be used to spot-clean tough stains if they appear, but shouldn’t be used to clean the entire surface.

How to Clean a Metal Roof

Cleaning your metal roof is simple. Follow these steps annually to protect your roof against rust, mildew and other contaminants.

  • Rinse what you can with water.
  • Add detergent (¼ cup per gallon) to water.
  • Apply the solution with a sponge or cloth.
  • Rinse well after 5-10 minutes.
  • Spot-clean mildew, mold, or rust with appropriate safe cleaners.

Do’s and Don’ts of Cleaning a Metal Roof

Don’t use a high-pressure washer.

Don’t use sandpaper, steel wool, or other abrasive materials to clean — even on mold, mildew, or rust stains.

Don’t let toxic run-off reach the ground if you’re using chemicals for stains.

Do use a small amount of bleach with an appropriate detergent to remove mold or mildew stains.

Do consult an expert if there is a stain you’re unsure how to remove.

Do wear protective clothing if you clean your roof yourself, including glasses, gloves, and shoes with good traction.

Do use safe practices when cleaning your roof including fall protection, a ladder compliant with OSHA standards, and a buddy.

Finally, don’t hesitate to ask for help if you need it. You don’t have to clean your metal roof by yourself. If you don’t have the time, don’t have safe equipment to use, or don’t want to deal with the hassle of the chore, hire a professional. Protect your metal roof by caring for it year after year, and it will last you a lifetime.

Is your metal roof looking a little worse for wear? Let the team at Werner Roofing know. We’re happy to help get your metal roof looking brand new again, and we’re also here to answer any questions you might have about cleaning your metal roof. Give us a call at (616) 844-5382 or contact us on the web today!

Why Choose Velux Skylights?

Why Choose Velux Skylights?

Velux offers top-of-the-line skylights and sun tunnels that add value to your home and allow you to capitalize on the pleasantness and efficiency of the sun’s light. Need more convincing? Here are some reasons why you should choose Velux skylights for your home.

More Natural Light

Studies show that more natural light increases productivity, improves our overall health, and makes us happier. Increasing your sources of natural light not only lifts your mood but adds to your home’s value. Adding walls of windows, however, might not be the most appropriate home-improvement unless you’re a fish in a bowl. 

Velux Skylights are a great way to let in more natural light to your home without sacrificing privacy. Particularly in small rooms like bathrooms, closets, pantries, and hallways, skylights can make a room feel brighter, larger, and more inviting. You can add dimension where your home needs it most, and by lightening those dark corners, you might find you want to spend more time in them.

Extra Ventilation

In addition to light, skylights also invite the exchange of fresh air and encourage healthy ventilation of your home. Velux’s “Fresh Air” skylights open out to allow airflow. They can be powered manually or electrically. They also have a Fresh Air skylight that is solar-powered, which requires no extensive wiring system, just a small panel attached to the side of the window frame. 

Velux skylights are perfect for adding ventilation in the kitchen after cooking or in the bathroom to prevent humidity buildup. 

Work in Any Space

Velux offers an extensive range of products that can fit in almost any space. In addition to their Fresh Air models, Velux offers a variety of fixed panel skylights that only let in the light. Velux’s Skymax skylight can accommodate large skylight sizes of up to 10 feet in width.

Skylights can be mounted in two ways: either curb mounted or deck mounted. Curb mounting uses a wooden frame that sits on the side of the roof surface to attach the window. It’s great for roofs that are flat or up to an angle of 60 degrees. Deck mounting has a lower profile and uses hardware to attach the skylight close to the roof itself. Deck mounting is recommended for roof angles from 14 to 85 degrees.

Velux skylights work with flat ceilings, too. The skylight is installed on the roof, while a lightwell is used to channel the light straight down onto the ceiling. From there, an opening can be constructed in the ceiling to allow the natural light to filter down. 

Superior Technology

Velux’s employment of advanced technology is what makes them the top brand in the country. Their development of “Neat” glass reduces water spotting from raindrops or moisture, which preserves the clean look of the glass. They also use three layers of water protection including gaskets or sealing, underlayment and flashing to prevent any moisture from seeping around the skylight. They call this their “No Leak Skylight” promise. 

Additionally, on the “Fresh Air” models, Velux skylights have a rain sensor feature that will turn on if it senses unfavorable weather. If you forget to close your skylight before you leave the house, you won’t have to worry about any surprises when you get home. 

High Quality

Velux cares about sustainable living and makes its products as energy-efficient as possible. They do this by minimizing the heat that enters the skylight using argon gas between the panes of the window. They also coat the panes with low-emissivity coatings, which reduces the UV or infrared rays that enter the skylight, without blocking any of the natural light. 

Velux skylights allow you to enjoy using natural resources in your home, but have them work for you as well.

The Velux Skylight Product Guarantee

All deck-mounted Velux skylights come with a 10-year factory warranty, so you’re fully protected against leaks, no matter who installed the skylight. Here at Werner Roofing, we are proud to install Velux skylights. We put our name behind their product as fellow leaders in their industry. 

Because of their commitment to the highest quality, best technology and variety of options, Velux is the only brand of skylights we work with. If you’re looking for Velux Skylights in your new or renovated home, Werner Roofing would love to help. We’re certified and insured to install all varieties of Velux Skylights, and we’d be happy to let a little more light into your home. Call us today at (616) 844-5382 or contact us online.

3 Most Common Types of Metal Roofs

3 Most Common Types of Metal Roofs

Thanks to their awesome durability, attractive clean look, energy efficiency, and variety of colors, metal roofs continue to grow in popularity. In climates that see a lot of snow, metal roofs are particularly attractive as they shed precipitation easily. But no matter why you’re interested in a metal roof, you probably want to make sure you have the best type of metal roof for your home, your style, and your budget. We’re going to break down the three most common types of metal roofs, so you can make an informed decision about which metal roof is best for you:  

Exposed Fastener Metal Roofing

One of the first versions of metal roofing, ever, exposed fastener metal roofing has been around for quite some time, and for good reason. Exposed fastener roofing is made by overlapping panels of metal, and fastening those panels directly to the roof deck or framing through the overlapping face of the metal panels. This type of roofing is called “exposed fastener” because the fasteners that secure the metal panels to the roof remain visible after installation. Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of exposed fastener metal roofing. 

Exposed Fastener Metal Roofing Pros:

 

  • Fast to install. Since exposed fastener roofing systems don’t require hand or mechanical seaming, they’re much faster to install. Your roofer can fasten two panels together at one time, which requires considerably less labor, and less time. 
  • Economical Metal Roofing Option. In general, exposed fastener metal roofing is more economical than other options because the metal used for the panels is thinner, they use a lower quality paint system, and the panels are wider. All of these factors contribute to a lower product cost, and faster installation means lower labor costs. 
  • Traditional Aesthetic. Exposed fastener metal roofing has been around for a long time, so it’s what many people think of as a “traditional” metal roofing style. If you like rustic, industrial, and farmhouse styles, you’ll probably appreciate the appearance of an exposed fastener metal roof. 

 

Exposed Fastener Metal Roofing Cons:

 

  • Greater potential for leaks. To install this type of roof, roofers literally drill a metal fastener into your roof. When installed properly, fasteners are designed to keep water out, but springing a leak is one of the most common problems associated with exposed fastener roofs. 
  • Problems with fasteners. Because fasteners are exposed, they can create some problems that potentially shorten the lifespan of your roof. For example, if a fastener is installed slightly off-center, too far into the roof, or not far enough, all of these issues can create the potential for leaks. Additionally, a fastener’s gasket has a much shorter lifespan and is more greatly affected by UV rays than the fastener itself. Unfortunately, this means the gasket can wear out and create a gap that allows for water to leak in. 
  • Frequent maintenance. Exposed fastener metal roofs require a great deal more maintenance than other roofing types, simply because the fasteners are exposed. This leaves your roof very vulnerable to leaks, which means you’ll need to complete regular maintenance to check and replace any faulty fasteners and to clear away any dirt, rust, leaves, or debris that might catch on the fasteners. 

 

 

Though exposed fastener metal roofs are a more economical investment upfront, the amount of maintenance they need and the potential for leaks and water damage does present concerns to some homeowners. 

Standing Seam Metal Roofs

Standing seam metal roofs sound pretty much like what they are: metal roofs with panels that intersect at raised seams. Unlike exposed fastener roofs, standing seam roofs have hidden fasteners in order to eliminate some of the common problems associated with exposed fastener roofs. 

 

Standing seam roof panels are either attached to the roof using a clip, or they are fastened to roof decking using a fastener flange. Either way, this little bit of additional installation care makes standing seam roofs a bit more secure when it comes to leaks. Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of a standing seam metal roof. 

Standing Seam Metal Roof Pros:

 

  • Hidden Fasteners. Standing seam metal roofs hide fasteners. This eliminates all of the holes in the roof that an exposed fastener roof presents. Though standing seam metal roofs do take a bit longer to install, fasteners are hidden which eliminates many of the concerns of water leaks. There’s also the added benefit of a clean, sleek look that’s uninterrupted by the sight of fasteners. 
  • Energy Efficiency. Metal roofs are naturally very energy efficient, but a majority of standing seam metal roofing panels are finished with a cool roofing coating that works to better reflect hot UV rays from the sun. This helps keep your home at stable temperatures year-round and can help you save on those energy bills, too. 
  • Sleek Look. Because standing seam metal roofs have hidden fasteners, they offer any home a sleek, modern look that’s uninterrupted by fasteners sticking up out of the roof. Some homeowners prefer this look over the more traditional, rustic look of the exposed fastener roofs. 
  • Minimal Maintenance. When compared to other types of roofs, and even other metal roofs, like exposed fastener metal roofs, standing seam roofs need significantly less maintenance. While it’s still a good idea to have an annual inspection completed by a roofer, standing seam roofs don’t need to be checked yearly for leaks around fasteners, rust, or anything else. 

 

Standing Seam Metal Roof Cons:

 

  • Higher Cost. When compared to an exposed fastener metal roof, a standing seam metal roof will certainly cost more. That said, a standing seam roof will still cost less than a stamped profile metal roof, and is certain to last longer than most other roofing styles, including asphalt shingle roofs. 
  • Longer Installation. Standing seam roofs do take a bit longer to install than other metal roofs because they do require careful installation. You’ll want to find a roofing contractor who is qualified to install standing seam metal roofs because their crew will have the necessary certifications to install that new roof properly. 

 

 

If you’re planning to invest in a metal roof, and want an option that looks great, but that won’t totally break the bank, a standing seam metal roof might be for you. They offer the beautiful, traditional look of a metal roof, with the added benefit of sleek, fastener-free seams. They’re also a super-durable and long-lasting roofing option that’s perfect for any home. 

Stamped Profile Metal Roofs

If you love the look of slate or cedar shake roofs, but can’t justify the cost of slate or the maintenance of shake roofs, a stamped profile metal roof just might be the solution for you. Stamped profile metal roofs offer you all the benefits and architectural style of a shingled roof, without the drawbacks.

 

 We’ve written a bit about these in a previous blog about awesome metal roofing styles, but it’s good to know that stamped profile metal roofs can be made to look like anything from slate and wood shakes to ceramic, tile, and even the traditional asphalt shingle roof. Let’s dive into the pros and cons: 

Stamped Profile Metal Roof Pros:

 

  • Aesthetic. First and foremost, you have to love stamped profile roofs for their style. They offer homeowners some of the most luxurious roof looks like slate and tile for a fraction of the price of what the original material would cost. Stamped profile metal roofs can be made to look like a variety of materials, and they also come in a variety of colors and textures to suit any architectural style. 
  • Low Maintenance. Like any metal roof, stamped profile metal roofs are fairly low maintenance. A stamped profile metal roof will need less maintenance than an exposed fastener metal roof because it’s constructed much the same way as a traditional asphalt roof. There aren’t any exposed parts to cause potential water leaks. 
  • Durability. Stamped profile metal roofs offer all of the benefits of a shingled roof, without the drawbacks of a short or fragile lifespan. Metal roofs, when properly maintained, can last anywhere from 40-60 years, which significantly outlasts an asphalt or cedar shake roof. 

 

 

Stamped Profile Metal Roof Cons:

 

  • Cost. Though stamped profile metal roofs are much cheaper than something like a tile or slate roof, they’re still fairly costly when compared to a more traditional standing seam metal roof or asphalt shingle roof. 
  • Can be difficult to find a roofer. Because stamped profile metal roofing is still relatively new, you might have trouble finding a roofer in your area who has the product and the crew to install a stamped profile metal roof for you. 

 

 

If you’re considering a metal roof for your new home, or as a replacement for your older roof, Werner Roofing would love to help! We’re one of West Michigan’s premier metal roofing installation experts, and we can install a variety of attractive metal roof types. For more information give us a call at 616-844-5382, or leave us a message online today. 

5 Benefits of A Tear-Off Roof

5 Benefits of A Tear-Off Roof

If a roof replacement is in your home’s very near future, you’ve probably heard that you have two main options when re-roofing an asphalt roof: tear off and overlay. Last month, we wrote a blog about all things overlay roof, and this month, we’re going to tackle the topic of tear-off roofs. In nearly every situation, a tear-off roof is the better choice, and we’re going to tell you why. Though it might cost you just a little bit extra, a tear-off roof replacement has so many benefits that really outweigh the slight additional cost. Here are 5 of the most important benefits of a tear-off roof instead of an overlay re-roofing project. 

#1 Long-Term Solution

When you opt for a tear-off roof replacement, your roofer will tear everything off your existing roof. That means old shingles, old underlayment, and even any decking that’s been compromised or is starting to rot will be removed. Then, everything is replaced with brand-new materials. By completely tearing off the old roof, your home gets to start fresh. This is a long-term solution that can last you anywhere from 20-30 years, depending on the new asphalt shingles you choose, and the materials your roofer uses. 

 

A tear-off re-roofing project is the closest you’ll get to a brand new roof, which means it can offer you the most benefits for the longest amount of time. For years, you won’t have to worry about potential leaks, structural problems, etc. And because your home only has one layer of shingles, you’re putting a lot less stress on the structure of the home. That means you’re helping extend the lifespan of your home itself, too. 

#2 Upgrade your Roof Structure

Since a tear-off roof project literally means that your roofer will tear off any old material, this project gives you the opportunity to upgrade your roof structure if necessary. Let’s say you live in an older home that’s seen quite a few years. If you’re working with a roof structure that’s anywhere from 50-100 years old, a tear-off roof project gives you the opportunity to make serious upgrades. 

 

Roofing technology has come a long way in the last few decades, and if you’re hoping to make your home more energy efficient with new insulation in your attic or reinforce older structures, a tear-off roofing project gives you the access you need to make those upgrades happen. 

#3 Looks Brand New

One key concern that comes with an overlay roof project is that they don’t always come out looking brand new. To complete an overlay roof, your roofer will add another layer of shingles on top of your existing roof. If your roof has any sort of sway or buckle to it, an overlay roof is only going to accentuate those problems. When you opt for a tear-off roof, you’re pretty much investing in a brand new roof. From the shingles to underlayment and even the decking of your roof, if necessary, every component of your roof will be brand new, and it will look it, too. 

 

#4 Added Home Value

If there’s one thing a new homeowner definitely doesn’t want to worry about, it’s roof replacement. A new roof can provide as much as a 105% return on investment. That’s a serious value. An overlay roof, on the other hand, can actually decrease the value of your home, as it can negatively affect your curb appeal, and it’s a negative point for sellers, who won’t want to deal with removing two layers of the roof instead of just one. So, if you’re planning on selling anytime soon, a tear-off roof replacement is certainly in your best interest.  

#5 Simple Maintenance

A key benefit of a brand new roof is that you don’t have to think about it for a while. A new tear-off roof offers the exact same benefits. When your roof is replaced by a trusted roofer, and with high-quality materials, you shouldn’t have to worry about any troublesome leaks or problems for years to come. Overlay roofs, on the other hand, can compound maintenance problems, making them more difficult for roofers to identify and fix. With a tear-off roof replacement, if you do need any maintenance completed down the line, leaks and problems will be easy to spot, and equally as easy for your roofer to fix. 

Time for a new roof? Werner Roofing is a trusted, local roofing company holding the prestigious Master Elite Certification. That means whether you’re looking for a brand new roof or a tear-off roof replacement, we can provide you with the highest quality GAF asphalt shingles on the market. Give us a call, we’d love to schedule your roof replacement.