4 USEFUL BENEFITS OF INSTALLING A NEW ROOF

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A solid and watertight roof is essential for the all-round integrity of the home. If the roof appears to be damaged or has missing shingles, the first thought is to have the problem repaired as soon as possible. However, this doesn’t always provide a solution for the long-term. In certain situations, it can be more practical to invest in a new roof. Let’s take a look at four benefits of installing a new roof:

Latest technology

The new roof installation will mean the very last technology is used to ensure the shingles, gutters, flashing, vents, underlayment, etc. are able to complement each other to provide greater value and functionality to the home. Also, the old roof is likely to be less efficient at saving energy, which will be easily addressed once the new one is installed.

Pick a preferred style

A new roof can be installed with many different designs, styles and colors. For instance, it is possible to replace the old and tired shingles that have been on the roof for decades into something a lot more stylish, such as the cedar shakes. They not only look great, but also provide excellent insulation and withstand even the most extreme weather conditions.

Also, the ability to convert the roof to cedar shakes is certain to be appreciated by those that have the environment on their mind. A new roof is better for the planet because the most sustainable materials are used which can offer greater energy efficiency.

Improve the home value

The market value of the home is certain to see a significant gain after the installation of a new roof. If you aren’t planning to put the home on the market, you will still get to personally benefit from a boost in the look and the worth of your home. However, if you are looking to sell your home in the near future, a new roof is certain to be a very attractive selling point. On average, the home value will increase by about 15 to 40 percent.

Professional installation

Many of the mass-produced homes in the past were built with less diligence and low quality materials. This can lead to a roof having a shorter life than expected. With a new roof installed by a professional who used the highest quality materials, there is no reason why it shouldn’t last for many decades without any issues. The typical lifespan of a new roof can range from 15 to 50 years. The shortest lifespan is for a material like asphalt shingles and the longest for concrete tile.

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HOW TO ENSURE YOUR ROOF IS READY BEFORE INSTALLING SOLAR PANELS

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It’s an exciting experience when you finally decide to switch to solar energy. After plenty of research, you’ve determined that you want to invest in solar panels. You’re so excited that you’ve already started to research solar installers in your area. Still, one little question currently holds you back from making the move to solar: “What else should I do before asking for a quote?”

We suggest checking to make sure your roof is as ready for a solar panel installation as you are. There are three important questions you consider before you make the move to solar energy:

  • What does your roof look like?
  • What is the condition of your roof?
  • How much shade does your roof get throughout the day?

Your answers can help you determine if it’s time to get quotes for solar panels. Let’s dig into each question, shall we?

What Does My Roof Look Like?

A quick inspection of your roof is a big first step in determining whether it’s ready for a solar panel installation. There are three major factors you should consider:

  • The age of your roof
  • The roofing material
  • Potential obstacles for solar panels

Age of the Roof

The older your roof, the more likely it is that you’ll need to do some work before you invest in a solar array. If your roof will need to be replaced within the next 10 years, it’s best to replace it before solar panels are installed. This will save you from having to remove and reinstall them when the roof is replaced.

Roofing Materials

While solar panels are routinely installed on metal and asphalt roofs, some roofing materials, such as slate and Spanish tiles, require more care when installing solar panels. If your roof is made of a delicate material, you should talk to a professional roofer for their recommendation on mounting panels on your roof.

Potential Obstacles

Solar panels need to be laid down in straight rows. This means obstacles, such as vents and dormers, can limit how many panels can fit on your roof. A good solar consultant can potentially design around these obstacles, but it can still impact your overall solar potential.

What is the Condition Under My Roof?

Depending on the condition of your roof, you may need to replace it before you install new panels. Inspect your roof for the following signs:

  • Damaged rafters or trusses
  • Leaks or stains in the attic or on walls
  • Mildew
  • Dark, “dirty-looking” spots on the roof

If your roof is showing any of these signs or hasn’t been replaced in the past 10 years, consider getting a roof repair estimate from a professional. Shop around and see what you can find. If the area you want to install panels is inaccessible, consult your home’s blueprints for the structure of your roof.

How Much Shade Does My Roof Get?

Shade from trees and other buildings can limit the production of your system. Because of this, it’s best to avoid installing panels in shady areas on your rooftop, if possible. If necessary, trees can also be trimmed to optimize unshaded area on your roof. Use Project Sunroof to see an estimate of how much sunlight your roof sees each year and which areas of your roof would be best for panels.

Make Sure Your Roof is Ready for Solar Panels

A little preparation can make a big difference for your solar energy system. By considering three simple questions about your roof, you can put your panels in the best position for maximum production.

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SOME TIPS ON ROOF INSTALLATION AND REPAIRS, AND HOW TO CHOOSE A ROOFING CONTRACTOR

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Our home is one of the must important assets that we own and often it requires maintenance and remodeling of one kind or another. We all dream and aspire to have a place where we can retreat from the stresses of the out side world and connect with ourselves and with our family. This necessity it is not a cheap one but rather something that takes time and money as well as a good home remodeling & repair company to achieve. A home is as personal and as precious as a beautiful piece of jewelry and just like an expensive diamond is handled by a professional jeweler so too a home should be given to a good home building contractor to remodel or maintain.

Roof maintenance, unlike other home repairs and remodeling, is not something you can just put off for next year. When one finds a roof leak it needs to be fixed right away or at least before the next winter shows up, otherwise the water damage caused by the leaking roof can be substantial and can lead to unnecessary expenses in the long run. The urgency of roof maintenance is important also for making your home more energy efficient and for reducing high energy bills. As a matter of fact professional craftsmanship in roof repairs and installation is the first step in improving energy conservation and efficiency for your entire home and you’ll be amazed at the positive effect this will have on your utility bills.

Most roof types and materials are very durable and can last for many years, but because at least 40 % of your home’s front elevation is the roof, it is constantly exposed to changing weather conditions that can cause damage and can make the roof look dirty and neglected. Thus, whether it’s a tile roof, shingle roof, or even steel roofing, periodic roofing services would be necessary and when it does it needs be taken care of by a professional roof contractor.

In addition to natural causes, sloppy craftsmanship is another common reason for leaking roof and other roof related issues. If the roof installation was not done properly, by winter time you will surely know about it. For example – If the parameter edge is re-roofed without a starter shingle or if the starter shingle is improperly installed, you definitely have a problem there. Exposed fasteners and nails that are not sealed will eventually cause a roof leak. Improper installation of counter flashing or missing counter flashing under the step flashing, no underlayment, debris in the gutters, rough cut shingles are also examples of bad roofing that one should watch for.

Some general rules to follow when considering the type and color of your new roofing is also in place. Today what we predominantly see in terms of roofing materials are tile roof & steel roof or metal roofing systems, as well as the fiberglass shingle roofing system. In the shingle roof system you have the standard fiberglass roofing or you have what is called dimensional roofing which is becoming popular and is considered as high-end roofing. In selecting your roofing it is really going to depend on what is predominant in you neighborhood or if you are looking for a unique look you would want the roofing to match in with the bricking or sidings of your house. If you have lighter shad bricking or sidings you don’t want go for a really high contrast where you have a really dark roof but rather you should go with a lighter shad approximate to your sidings. Basically the roof needs to blend with the color of your brick, sidings and the gutter system. For instance if the sidings are of a lighter shade tone you need more or less a lighter shade color for your roof, like light grey or a light brown.

In a last note – remember that cost does not determine quality, and not all of kinds of roofing will meet the needs of your specific home. But by carefully selecting the right roofing material and making sure it’s installed properly by a licensed roofing contractor and by performing maintenance occasionally, you can have a roof that functions properly for 20 to 30 years or even longer.

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ROOF INSTALLATION – CHOOSING METAL

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There are many benefits to using metal for your next roofing application. Metal is waterproof, has a top fire safety rating, and holds its own under dangerous weather conditions. Many homeowners opt to go with metal materials not only for its durability, but safety as well. And while a metal roof installation may cost a bit more than other options, it’s well worth the investment. In this article, we will provide a basic list of tips and tricks to help you along the way.

To begin, take a look at the various materials needed to install your roof, including shingles, hand tools, nails, flashing, and counterflashing. You can even obtain the look of a wood or tile system through employing the use of shingles.

A variety of color options and patterns are available to those choosing metal as their roofing material. If you are looking for more expressive options in terms of contours and samples, you may choose to select panels instead. Consider the purchase of recycled products such as steel and copper panels as they are just as durable and less expensive overall.

A great way to save money, is through purchasing your materials through a dealer or manufacturer. As an added bonus, many of these companies will also walk you through the installation process.

Be sure to use name-brand materials used by homebuilders. Stick with a company with a proven track record for quality and reliability.

Install your materials directly over your old roof. In many cases, this is a wonderful way to save time and resources. Check with your manufacturer to see whether this technique is a possibility in your application.

As a means to prevent leakage, attach the starter flashing. Adhere strips of securing flashing by nailing it down into the sections of the roof, and fascia trimboard. Be sure to apply strips of counterflashing as needed.

Install a roofing system with hidden gutter channels. These will provide superior drainage for your home as well as a more appealing appearance overall.

During your installation, keep your safety a top concern. Brace the ladder and wear rubber-soled shoes.

Purchase protective aluminum or zinc sealant in order to avoid rust down the road. Many of these coatings come with long term warranties.

It’s important to remember that not everyone is qualified to take on an application such as the one described above. If you find yourself in over your head, your best bet is to consult a trained professional. In the long run, the choice to ask for help may even save you a sum of time and money.

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PROS AND CONS OF BUILT-UP ROOFS VERSUS RUBBER MEMBRANE EDPM ROOFS

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There are various types of flat roof systems to choose from for your home or building. Many options are well-suited for new construction homes and roof replacement needs, making it more difficult for you to decide which style is best for your property. Two of the most common choices in the flat roof market are built-up roof systems (BUR) and EDPM rubber membrane roof systems. Continue reading to learn more about both systems by comparing the pros and cons of each.

Built-Up Roofs (BUR)

Built-up roofing (BUR) is a customary choice for flat roof systems. These systems are built in layers, starting with several waterproof ply sheets, followed by a layer of hot tar and gravel (hot bitumen or asphalt-based), and then ballasted by a layer of smooth river stone. This top layers works as an effective reflective coating for increased energy efficiency, while the hot asphalt mix provides durability and doubles as a fire retardant.

Although traditionally made from hot tar and gravel or tar paper, industry innovations continue to rise and more advanced materials are being used for BURs, such as fiberglass membranes. The total cost of BUR procurement and installation varies from client to client, as it depends on a wide variety of factors. Some of the most influential factors include total square footage and quality of material. On average, BUR systems generally cost between $5 and $7 per square foot installed.

PROS:

Inexpensive in Comparison to Alternative Flat Roof Options

Visually Appealing for Windows and Balconies That Overlook a Roof

Reflective Coating Improves Energy Efficiency and Reduces Heat Gain

CONS:

Requires More Frequent Routine Maintenance in Comparison to Alternative Systems

Materials are Heavy and Increase Installation Time

Installation Can Be Tedious; Improper Installation Can Clog Gutters

EDPM Rubber Membrane Roofs

EDPM rubber membrane roofs (“EPDM” stands for “ethylene propylene diene monomer”) are another common flat roof option that work very well for large, flat rooftops. This material is a true flexible rubber that can be installed in a number of ways. The most traditional installation methods include using fasteners to mechanically anchor it, ballasting it with stone, or using adhesive. They come in wide rolls that must be rolled out with the utmost precision and care to avoid air bubbles and other structural defects.

EDPM roofing systems provide a wide range of benefits, including higher durability, UV damage resistance, and much more. Property owners also admire the ease of installation and lower routine maintenance needs, as well as, its resistance to natural wear and tear like scuffs and scratches. In terms of cost, the total amount will vary depending on the unique factors and circumstance of your property. On average, you can expect EDPM rubber roofing to cost anywhere between $4.00 and $7.00 per square foot installed.

PROS:

Low Maintenance and Easy to Patch Up Water Leaks

Resistant to Water Leaks and Surface Blemishes Like Scuffs and Tears

Can Last Up to 20 Years or More With Good Care

Renders a Clean, Uniform Look

CONS:

Absorbs a Large Amount of Heat, Making a Reflective Top Coating a Necessary

Reflective White Top Coating is an Additional Cost to Procurement and Installation

Excess Heat Absorption Can Increase Energy Costs by 30% or More

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WHAT ARE SOLAR ROOFING SHINGLES?

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With all the incredible innovative advancements achieved over the past decade in solar technology, solar roofing is now more affordable than ever. This is thanks to solar shingles, which are a new roofing material that saves energy and reduces electricity costs for property owners. Continue reading to learn more about solar shingles, and where to get trusted roof installation advice for your home or building.

The Advent of Solar-Powered Roofing

In the past, most people would imagine big, blue, incandescent panels on the top of a house or building when thinking about solar power. But in today’s world, that is not the only option for home-based solar power anymore. On the other hand, that technology has been the inspiration for the dawn of a new and improved type of solar power known as solar shingles.

Solar roof shingles are basically photovoltaic cells that have been specifically designed to look like asphalt roof shingles. Their advent was a result of improvements made in the field of thin-film photovoltaics. Homeowners are pulled toward this technology for many reasons, as solar shingles provide a long list of benefits.

Benefits of Solar-Powered Roof Shingles

Solar shingles are flexible and lightweight, making them easy to install. When it comes to integrating them with customary asphalt shingles, the incorporation is virtually seamless; you can hardly tell the difference between one shingle and another, especially on roofing systems that are dark in color. In fact, they tend to look better on darker rooftops.

Not only are solar roof shingles aesthetically pleasing compared to the old, bulky solar-powered technology, they are also economically beneficial. They can save homeowners money on energy costs by increasing their home’s energy efficiency. Homeowners may even be eligible for certain solar tax credits.

Installation

In most cases, solar shingles are applied with an existing power grid to ensure that your home is powered even when there is no sun. In the fortunate case that you generate more power than you actually use, you might have the option of selling it back to the power company. Although solar shingles are known for their ease of installation, they can only be installed by qualified roofing contractors who are licensed and experienced in the industry.

In addition to a licensed roofing company, you will also need an electrician to hook everything up to your electrical system for you. Generally, you can expect them to install an “inverter,” which will convert the generated electrical current to standard AC power.

Talk to a Pro

Solar-powered roofing systems are costly upfront, but can render homeowners a lifetime of savings. Since it is a big investment, it is important to fully weigh your options before making a final purchasing decision. Talk to a local and trusted roofing contractor for professional advice and recommendations you can trust.

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INSTALLING LEAK BARRIERS ON YOUR NEW ROOF

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Weather Watch or StormGuard Leak Barriers.

Use either Weather Watch or StormGuard Leak Barriers. Weather Watch Leak Barriers offers these features…a mineral surface for better traction, Fiberglass reinforced for added strength, 1.5 squares or 2.0 squares per roll, split back release film which makes for an easier installation, Repositionable Weather Watch Leak Barrier is designed to be set in place and repositioned if need be, it is less likely to stick itself, it uses a time released adhesive that reduces hassles if material folds on itself during the installation, seals to almost any surface, seals to all the critical areas, seals nails, staples, and seals to plumbing vent pipes.

StormGuard Leak Barrier features a good traction in heat film surface, it is fiberglass reinforced for extra strength, 2.0 squares per roll, split back release film which makes it easy to install, of course it is repositionable if need be. And as it will seal itself to many different surfaces, deals to roof decks, nails, staples, and roof vent pipes.

DIRECT SUNLIGHT: Important Fact
Leak barriers are not designed to hold up to direct sunlight for any long periods of time. Weather Watch or StormGuard Leak Barriers are never to be installed if the exposure could exceed for 60 days.

LEAK BARRIER LOCATIONS
Leak barriers should be installed at the eaves to give protection from wind-driven rains and ice dams, in all valleys, a full 36″ width throughout the entire valley length, around all plumbing vent pipes, 20″ square section applied tight to the pipe, around the dormers for added protection under the flashing areas, around all chimneys to safeguard against any leak sources, at roof slope transition areas when a roof pitch flows to a lower pitch, there is a danger of ponding water, around the skylights to seal off critical areas that may leak, and at the rake edges, hips, and ridges from protection from wind-driven rain.

When installing GAF-Elk Leak Barriers at eaves, install anywhere there is the threat of a snow load, most building codes require installing Leak Barriers at the eaves, extend up the roof to at least 24″ inside of the warm wall, the “warm wall” is the interior finished wall, two courses of 36″ are needed on a typical structure, lap second course over first by 3″ using the selvage edge to keep straight, and hand roll lap for adhesion purposes.

When installing Leak Barrier on top of drip edge cut into 10′-20′ lengths so it is easier to handle, examine the deck, make sure it is clean, dry, and free of debris, install the gutter and remember to re-attach all leader pipes, install non-corroding metal drip edge, aluminum or galvanized steel, nail every 8″-10′, install full width of the membrane and flush to the drip edge, roll back the top half of the membrane to remove and to release the film, seal the membrane to using a roller, for safety reasons, back every nail 18″ along selvage edge, roll bottom front half to remove release film, remove release film to install to the deck and drip edge, seal the membrane, again, using a roller.

Extend laps 6″ minimum at any seams, hand roll these laps to seal. Do not leave the membrane exposed for longer than 60 days because it is not designed to be exposed for long periods of time. And for any additional courses, waterproof roof deck protection should reach a point 24″ inside the interior wall line. If any extra courses are needed or required, the top lap must be at least 3″ and hand rolled for good adhesion purposes.

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ROOF VENTILATION – INSTALLATION, IMPORTANCE, AND COSTS

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Before we dig any deeper on how much does roof ventilation cost, let’s have a look at its importance. When a roof is built without air intake and exhaust vents, the sun’s heat can cause a buildup of warm air in the attic. This heat could radiate to other areas of a house, which could lead to unbearable indoor conditions during summer. On a typical day’s heat of 90°F, the temperature could rise to 140°F when there is poor airflow. In addition to heat, the existence of moisture in the attic could lead to serious problems in the future if proper venting is not installed.

Shingles and roof decking could suffer and prematurely deteriorate. Radiating heat could also mean air conditioning units and other cooling units need to work harder to keep the temperature down, ultimately increasing the electricity bill.

Uncovering how vents work

There are benefits to having a fully functioning ventilation system for the entire year. Roof vents work by allowing air to freely move from one point of the roof to another. This ensures that no moisture and heat is transferred out of the roof, keeping the house cool. These systems typically have several components systematically placed for optimal function. This air movement can be achieved in two different ways: mechanical and natural. Natural air movement is driven by either stack or wind effect. Meanwhile, mechanical vent systems utilize electrical motors.

Mechanical systems are the most effective. A powered system can effectively transfer hot out and cold air in. However, there are a few tradeoffs to this kind of venting solution. First, some fans require more than 100W of electricity to run. This could increase your electricity bill significantly. Installation is also more complicated, and in most cases, may require professional help. There are also solar-powered fans that allow off-grid operation but are a little bit costly.

How much roof ventilation do I need?

Having enough airflow in your attic definitely, keeps the electricity bills down during summer. Expelling hot air not only keeps the entire house cool, but it also protects the roof structure from moisture-caused damage. However, most homeowners are oblivious about how much airflow they need in their home. It is best to know how much you actually need. This is to ensure that you would have enough airflow to keep the temperature in your attic relatively tolerable.

It’s relatively easy to know just how much ventilation you need for your attic. Generally, you would need 1 vent area (around 1 square foot in size) for every 150 square feet. Assuming that your attic has around 450 square feet of space, you would need to install at least 3 roof vents.

The recommended allocation of vents is at 60% and 40%. The 60% vents would be located in the soffit area and in as cited in the example above, there should be 2 soffit vents installed. The other 40% is for a ridge vent. The type of ventilation may depend on the climate as well as your preferences. If you are still undecided, you should consult a professional to get a second opinion.

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HOW TO CHOOSE AND MATCH BRICK VENEER FOR NEW CONSTRUCTION AND ADDITIONS

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My neighbor spent well over $200,000 to add a beautiful addition to her traditional brick veneer Cape Cod home. But when the masonry contractor put up the brick he failed to even come close to matching the color of the mortar to the original part of the house. Even worse the new bright white mortar clashes with both the new brick and the old. The house now has a garish and jarring appearance and the cost of repair is prohibitive.

Brick veneer is the most durable and beautiful material that will protect your home from the elements. Brick is virtually maintenance free and will last for generations. Living in the Detroit area it is plain to see the brick in all the dilapidated buildings is still in beautiful condition and in most cases can be salvaged and reused. Brick veneer is more costly and you will have to live with your choice for as long as you own your home. If you’re planning an addition or building a new home the money, time and effort invested in choosing the design, brick, mortar and most importantly the contractor will be returned many times over in long-term value.

These are some ideas to consider when choosing or matching brick veneer

• Cost: maybe it would be better to sacrifice square footage for quality and beauty

• Design: Long, high walls need to be broken up with a vertical course of brick, a ledge of stone or by brick that varies in color and texture. Design in offset walls with interior or exterior corners to give vertical definition to the house.

• Use “offset” (brick that protrudes from the wall in patterns or randomly)of bricks to create interest

• Make the addition narrower or wider than the existing home for interior or exterior corners to make brick and mortar matching easier

• How does the house fit into the neighborhood? A traditional styled house needs darker reds and more texture with gray mortar. Fieldstone, granite or sandstone can be used carefully

• Contemporary houses can use whites, blushes or neutral colors and smooth to glazed brick. Mortar can be bright white

• A skilled and experienced mason will take the time to try out various mixtures to match the mortar. Remember it is the SAND in the mortar that must match. Ask to see other work the mason has done and be prepared to pay a little more

• There are many sizes and profiles of brick available. We have a ranch house built on a slab in our neighborhood that used long, low profile brick with a subtle wavy texture. Along with a double-hip roof and deep eves this house would be the envy of Frank Lloyd Wright himself!

• Design the roof and gutters so the downspouts can be used to hide the seam between the old and new brick. There are many decorative gutter and downspout products available. Visit a local siding and gutter supply house

• A faux copper downspout with an elegant leader head (or conductor) can be used to hide a seam too

• Many faux half columns are available in various metal and paintable materials

• Use high quality beveled horizontal or battened vertical siding carefully in your design

• More and/or larger windows, entry doors, shutters and small round or octagon shaped windows can be used to breakup large brick walls

• Be careful using brick up into gables. Because of the roof slope at each end of the brick courses, the careless mason will loose his way; the vertical joints will not line up and the wall will have an undulating and amateurish look. A small window high in the gable would be good in this circumstance

• And remember to choose your roof shingles and materials at the same time. As an example, using a metal roof on an addition can be a way of making the addition “compliment” the original house instead of trying for an exact “match” (for the few of you that are self-confident, brave and daring you can use a combination of materials and design to “contrast” the original house; I’ve seen it done and to wonderful ends!)

And finally a special mention when using stone. A cobblestone cottage looks the way it does because it’s a cottage! A cottage is a small house. A large stone house must be very carefully designed. Avoid long, tall walls of stone veneer.

Mixing stone with brick veneer can produce a pleasing effect. Try to imagine you are building your house on the ancient ruins of stone fence or an old country manor. The lower corners, some around the entry door and a few randomly chosen places in the wall are all that is needed.

Brick has been made in local kilns using clay dug up from nearby river banks for centuries. The brick you find made in New England may clash with landscape of the house you build in Texas. The same is true if you use that blush pink brick that you loved in Florida for a house built in Wisconsin. The brick must be from the same origin as the house. Contemporary or traditional; single story ranch or two story colonial; split-level or townhouse; new construction or addition, all need the appropriate brick veneer to enhance long term value and style.

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DO YOU REALLY NEED GUTTERS?

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Sometimes, you have to ask yourself if gutters are necessary. They cost a fair amount and don’t look like the most attractive of home additions, but they do in fact play an important role for the home. Whether its copper gutters or GRP gutters, many homes can benefit from them and there are only certain circumstances where gutters are perhaps not entirely necessary.

Check Your Location

The first thing you have to do is to analyse where you live. ask yourself if you get a lot of rain in your location? Take note if your home is on a hill, as this will probably help prevent your home from getting flooded if there is a heavy amount of rainfall. Homes that have slopes either side do not necessarily need gutters, copper gutters or otherwise, as the rainfall will simply drain away. You’re relatively fortunate if you live in such an area, as you are unlikely to be subject to flooding. The important thing is to find some way for the rain to drain away, and if you don’t have any suitable means to do this then gutters are going to be the answer. Copper gutters are a fine choice and a worthy consideration if you do decide gutters are necessary and therefore need to be fitted on your home.

US vs UK

Interestingly, the need for gutters is often determined by the country in which you live. Those in the US, for example, will find that there are certain areas which don’t get much rainfall at all, whereas the UK is known for its heavy flood-risk months. It’s no surprise then that the majority of the UK residents have gutters installed, so they can prevent their homes getting flooded. Copper gutters are perhaps the most popular choice in the UK, as they are supremely durable and long lasting, which is a necessity. After all, with the amount of rainfall the UK gets on average per year, there is no doubt that homes need strong gutters put in place to cope! Think of it this way – if there is more than 15 inches of rain that falls each year, then chances are you could do with some guttering. It’s certainly not something you can put down to ‘chance’ since flooding is a risk everyone should be aware of.

The Basic Guttering Purpose

Gutters are necessary to control the flow of rain and they are fitted under the roof ledge on the front and back of the home. You will notice a pipe that is positioned on the side of the property, and this is where the rain flows down. On larger buildings, there are often a number of downpipes in position across the building frontage. The downpipes help to relieve the water accumulation in the gutters and the contents then flow down the pipe and down the ground, draining away successfully and preventing damage to your home.

If you’re still in doubt about whether or not you should get guttering on your home, bear in mind that it could make the difference between a flooded property and one that stays perfectly dry. If you’re thinking about durability and gutters that will last a long time, copper gutters are the best choice.

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