Make a Roof Last With Maintenance

If you think you can put a new low-slope roof on a building and then it’s out of sight, out of mind, think again. A roof should not be ignored; in fact, it needs to be maintained regularly in order to protect your investment.

Proper maintenance can potentially add years to a roof’s life, uncover minor problems before they become major issues, and save an owner money in the long run. Here are more reasons it’s important to have a maintenance program and how property owners can manage it and keep track of their service:

Most building owners make the wise decision to require a comprehensive manufacturer-backed NDL guarantee to ensure their new roof is protected against leaks. Depending on the system and guarantee, it could provide up to 35 years of coverage to a newly installed roof. Roof maintenance programs pay for themselves in the long run. It’s comparable to spending $20 on regular oil changes for your car or waiting to get a bill for a $2,000 engine replacement. Small fixes will cost a fraction over neglecting the roof and shelling out thousands of dollars to pay for significant repairs.

In addition, a leak doesn’t just affect the roof. Water damage can affect the building’s interior tile, walls, flooring, furnishings, fixtures, office equipment, inventory, and electrical systems. Hidden costs include lost revenue and income, lawsuits, slip and fall accidents, mold problems, and employee productivity issues. All of these consequential damages add up and can easily wreck an annual maintenance budget.

To protect a building’s roofing system, here is a list of steps that a building owner should perform:

Maintain records. Keep on file the guarantee, inspection reports, repair and maintenance bills, and original construction specs and invoices.

Conduct routine inspections at least once per year. (although, spring and fall are optimal). Inspect after severe weather. Don’t wait for a leak to appear; go out after a hailstorm, heavy rain, and high wind and check for yourself.

Repair correctly. In order to protect the warranty, make sure repairs are performed by an authorized contractor and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for repair and installation.

Always remove debris from the roof. Leaves, branches, rocks, and trash can cause a safety hazard and harm the roofing system.

Keep metal in good condition. Examine all the flashings for rust, damage, or deterioration, as these are common points for water entry.

Make sure masonry is in good condition. Examine walls for cracks, loose stones, or deteriorated sealant.

Maintain rooftop equipment. Check out air conditioners, vents, duct work, skylights, satellite dishes, and antennas. Eliminate spills of coolant, oils, or grease and repair if necessary.

Minimize rooftop traffic. Long-term traffic can wear out a roof and cause damage. Maintain a rooftop log so you know who has been on the roof from other trades.

Tips for Hiring the Right Roofing Contractor

The biggest obstacle homeowners face when looking to fix or replace their roof is choosing the right person to do the job. After a damaging storm, they need to quickly get back to normal and get the necessary roofing repairs completed. But that doesn’t mean they should just choose the first contractor who knocks on their door.

Finding a contractor who is trustworthy, honest, and professional may sound difficult – but that’s where you come in. Contractors should share these 10 important tips with homeowners to show them that your company is reputable and can be trusted to protect their home and their wallet:

Get local referrals. There is less chance of potential issues or scams when you choose a contractor from your community. They are more familiar with local rules and code regulations and have a relationship with area crews and suppliers.

Look for manufacturer designations. Manufacturer designations are considered a badge of honor because the contractor must pass certain minimum requirements to be factory-certified (although, some manufacturers have more stringent requirements than others). Some contractors blow in (no pun intended) right after a storm looking for work, so it’s important to look them up on the BBB website or equivalent and make sure they have a good score.

Stay away from contractors who do not exist on BBB.org. or equivalent. Trudel and Sons Contractors are required to maintain satisfactory ratings  in order to retain their certification.

Get an extensive warranty. Not all contractors can offer manufacturer warranties that include coverage of the contractor’s workmanship. If a contractor installs the roof incorrectly, it may take months or years for the damage to show up and insurance won’t pay for it. If the contractor won’t fix it (or worse, has gone out of business), your only recourse is to pay for their mistake yourself.

Be concerned about safety. A contractor without a training or safety program may not be the best person for your job.

Check for proper licensing and insurance. The contractor should have insurance for all employees and subcontractors and be able to provide a copy of their insurance certificate for validation. Not having adequate insurance could potentially lead to litigation between a contractor and homeowner if a roofing employee sustains an injury at the home. Most states and provinces require licensing for contractors, but that does not stop unlicensed contractors from attempting to do the roofing work. In states or provinces where licenses are required, make sure your contractor provides you with a copy of their license and confirm their status online.

Pay your deductible. Any contractor who claims that they can handle the repair without having the homeowner pay their insurance deductible is committing insurance fraud and endangering the homeowner. The insurance deductible is the responsibility of the insured, and the contractor should reflect that in the quote without inflating the estimate to cover all or part of the deductible.

Handle your own claim. A contractor who says they are “a claim specialist” or can “handle your insurance claim” may be breaking the law. In most states or provinces, it is illegal for contractors to act on behalf of the homeowner when negotiating an insurance claim. Any contractor who opens the door to potential legal action is not acting in your best interest.

Don’t give in to pressure. Watch out for a contractor who pressures you to sign a contract before the insurance company has estimated the damage. Some contractors say they can work with whatever your insurance company settles upon, but the homeowner needs to ensure it’s not just any amount, but the right amount. The contractor should thoroughly examine the home and check that their insurance adjuster didn’t miss any damages.

Know your material choices. A contractor who does not offer you different shingle options is not looking out for your best interest. The style and color of the shingles you install can affect the resale value of your home.

Always remember - Knowledge Is Power!

Hiring a Metal Roofing Contractor

Growing Popularity of Metal Roofing

Metal roofing is a versatile roofing material that is durable, attractive and long-lasting. The average lifespan of a copper, aluminum, or steel is between 35 and 50 years! Metal roofing styles and colors vary widely. Choose aluminum shingles for a “classic” roof look, or opt for the modern look of steel sheets.

Other benefits of metal roofing include a high resistance to mildew, mold, and other debris, as well as lower heating/cooling costs. And when installed correctly, a metal roof will reflect the sun away from your home, keeping your house cool and comfortable.

Hiring a Metal Roofing Contractor

Once you have decided to install a metal roof, it’s time to find a reputable, qualified contractor who knows the ins and outs of metal roofing installation. Just as in other professions, not all roofing contractors are equal.

When you shop around for that perfect roofing contractor, there are some obvious questions you want to ask before hiring any roofer. There are also things to consider that are specific to metal roofing installation and experience in that particular material is a must.

Metal roofing is laid directly on top of the existing roof. Although this technique may be less labor-intensive than ripping out the old materials, the job must be done right. Spending a lot of money on a metal roof is a fantastic investment, but improper installation will cost you down the road. Make sure you hire a metal contractor with proven experience to avoid common installation pitfalls.

Additional tips to consider when hiring a metal roofing contractor

• Get everything in writing. Make sure you understand the terms of your contract before you seal the deal.
• Understand where your money is going. The majority of roof installation costs are to purchase the copper, steel, or aluminum materials.
• Ask for references before you hire. Speak to former customers who have had metal roofs installed to get a feel for your contractor’s skills.
• Take your time. Don’t let a roofer pressure you. Make the final decision regarding your home improvements on your own schedule.

Thinking about a metal roof replacement?

If you’re considering installing this increasingly popular material, contact Trudel and Sons Roofing for help. We have nearly three decades of experience installing and repairing Ontario roofs and can handle all your metal roofing needs with dedication & skill. Each of our metal roofs comes with an extensive warranty, and is designed to accent and protect your home for decades to come.

Battling a Leaky Roof? You May Need Flashing Repairs!

Leaky roofs are often tricky to diagnose. At best, they’re a nuisance—and at worst, a costly structural nightmare. There are many reasons for roof leaks, and flashing damage is near the top of the list if you’ve ruled out shingles, valleys and ice damming.

What is Flashing?

Metal flashing is often made of tin-coated steel, galvanized steel and copper, and is the material used to “bridge the gap” between roofing materials and non-roofing materials. For example, flashing is found between roof planes, around chimneys, at the termination of roof slopes, around skylights and in roof valleys.

When properly installed, flashing will prevent water from seeping in to your home at the base of chimneys and vent pipes, in roof valley areas, or around exposed windows.
To prevent expensive flashing leaks, make sure you install the appropriate amount and type of flashing. It’s also important to inspect flashing 1 to 2 times a year. Below, you’ll find additional maintenance recommendations.

Flashing Maintenance 101

Over time, flashing may corrode or become loose. Before your roof begins to leak, look for damage to flashing during semi-annual roofing inspections. Here are some tips:

While inspecting your roof shingles and gutters, look for loose nails, fasteners and seals at your shingle edges, around the chimney and in sloped areas where flashing has been applied. As the caulking and silicon sealant applied to the flashing ages and is exposed to weather, it may crack, crumble or pull away. Flashing may simply need to be tacked down or resealed. If you recognize loose flashing, don’t allow it to go unrepaired. Water can literally stream down into your home through improperly sealed joints.

To help new or existing flashing last longer and withstand the elements, prime flashing with a metal primer and seal it with corrosion-proof metal paint that matches your home’s roofing material. This will help to prevent damage due to rust, and will lengthen the life of your roof flashing.
Seal improperly covered seams with urethane roofing cement. This type of sealant is designed to be applied between flashing and shingles or siding to prevent seepage. Remember, if you see a lot of dry, crumbling caulk at the seam, scrape it away with a wire brush before applying a new sealant layer.

Remember that while there are many do-it-yourself ways to maintain the integrity of your flashing, severe flashing damage or home leaks are best left to an experienced roof repair specialist.

Give Your Roofer a Call!

If repairing your leaky roof seems overwhelming, contact Trudel and Sons Roofing, a family-owned & operated Stoufville-based roofing contractor in business since for more than 30 years! Whether your roof needs an inspection, a little patchwork or an overhaul, our insured and licensed professionals are trained to get the job done right—and our work is always guaranteed!

Call (905)642-3515 or visit www.trudelandsons.com to schedule your inspection today!

10 Things to Do in Common Leak Areas

It’s important to make sure a roof is protected at critical areas to avoid coverage problems and not all roofing manufacturer warranties are the same. In order for the homeowner—and the roof—to get the most out of a warranty, it’s important that the contractor ensures a home is well protected from leaks. The right materials can make the difference. Here are 10 things a contractor should do to ensure warranty coverage for a homeowner:

Install waterproof leak barriers at critical areas that are prone to leaks including valleys, side walls, penetrations, chimneys, dormers, and eaves.Use edge metal at rakes and eaves to help protect from water infiltration at the roof’s edges. This is especially critical in high wind areas and colder climates.Install premanufactured flashing at all pipe penetrations to help prevent water entry.Install roof deck protection, also known as underlayment, to ensure shingles will lie flat and to protect against wind-driven rain that can blow under the shingles.Install proper attic ventilation to help manage the attic temperature and prevent moisture from being trapped in the attic space. Shingle roofs last longer when attics are properly ventilated.Install hip and ridge cap shingles to help protect those areas since they get more wind pressure than other parts of the roof. The finished look of hip & ridge cap shingles can also help increase curb appeal.Check skylight conditions. Old skylights should be replaced to better match the new roof’s age; also, new skylights will probably have better energy ratings.Install a single roofing system, like GAF’s Lifetime Roofing System.* When installing components from different manufacturers, mismatches in warranty coverage can occur. A complete system with shingles, leak barriers, hip and ridge cap shingles, roof deck protection, starter strips, and attic ventilation from the same manufacturer will allow all these components to be covered by one warranty and help to avoid finger-pointing in the event of an issue.Take advantage of problem-prevention inspections by factory-certified roof inspectors, when available. For example, when a homeowner buys a GAF Golden Pledge ltd. warranty**, they are entitled to an inspection by a GAF inspector. These inspectors are technical experts who also provide feedback on the installation.Install systems that have transferable warranties. This is a valuable feature to have if you ever sell your property in the future.

For more information on GAF’s residential warranties, see our comparison.

5 Questions to Ask About a Roof Before Buying a Home

Buying a home can be stressful and the last thing you want to end up with is the previous owners' problems.  You want to make a smart purchase, and being armed with the right questions to ask can help you avoid a nightmare when purchasing your dream home.  First things first, look at the roofing system.  Here are five questions we highly recommend you ask before making an offer:

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1.  What is the roof's condition?  Ask if the homeowner is aware of any recent damage.  Do you see any noticable damage you can see from the ground? Check the roof for any cracked, curled, or missing roof shingles. Are there any areas that look worn, or damaged?  

2.  How old is the roof?  Knowing the roof's age will help you determine about when it will need replaced again.

3.  Who did it, and why? Was it the cheapest option? This will give you a good idea of the home's past problems and possibly gauge the quality of work performed.  Cousin Joe probably was not as thorough as a professional contractor when it comes to proper roof installation and its longevity.

4.  How many layers? How many layers of shingles are currently on the roofing system?

5.  What type of roof is on the home?  There are so many choices available today.  This information will help you better understand the needs and cost to maintain the home's roof.

 

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These are all great questions to ask when you find a home or property that you are interested in potentially purchasing. The answers will provide you with a clear picture of the roofs true condition, and whether or not you want to factor that valuable information into your bargaining on the purchase price.

If any answers to the above questions have you somewhat concerned or still in questions, it's a good idea to call on a licensed, professional roofing contractor to perform an inspection. The more information you have on the home's roof, the closer you will be in determining when it will be due for maintenance or replacement. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us! Don't forget to connect on social media as well:

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Raising the Roof When it's Time to Sell Your Home

                                   

Are you aware of an issue with your roof? Are you in the process of selling your home? If so, it makes good sense to repair your roof before potential buyers begin to walk through. While you may think you are pulling off a fast one, most buyers are going to order a home inspection. In turn, the problem will show and you will be forced to fix it at a later date –  only this time on the buyer’s terms instead of your own.

Also, keep in mind that a major roof problem can lead to other issues. For instance, a small leak can lead to insulation and structural issues if ignored. The last thing you need while trying to sell your home is water damage.

It is very important that you show potential buyers just how great your home is. A roof in good condition is a huge plus for anybody looking to buy a home. The smartest move you can make as a homeowner and seller is to have your roof inspected before placing it on the market. 

By contracting with a company like Trudel and Sons Roofing, you get the option of getting a full Assessment Report on your roof that you can show to your prospective buyers proving to them that you have nothing to hide.

The Benefits and Risks of Replacing Your Roof During the Winter

It's a story that most roofers and contractors experience regularly every season... A customer calls in because of a leak, the roof is then assessed, and it requires a full replacement. It’s the middle of winter and the homeowner asks if this can wait until spring. Intuitively, roofing in the winter doesn’t seem to be such a good idea, right? Let’s sort this out by looking at three components that affect the final result: the human factor, the tools’ capacity to perform, and the shingle product itself.

First, there are human beings that will work on that roof. Morale in roofing is very important, as it is in many other trades—when people hate their job, they cut corners. Especially if those corners can make them go home faster! Starting the day shoveling and ice-breaking on the roof doesn’t help the morale of the crew. Nevertheless, it is imperative to install on an “appropriate substrate”—and snow and ice are not on the list. We need to reach the bare deck, especially in new construction. Any kind of precipitation will render the slope slippery, adding to the level of hazard and reducing the speed and comfort of the workers. The temperature is not to be neglected, as roofing is very physically demanding. Would you run a marathon carrying 30 pounds of gear? Wearing a winter jacket, pants, boots, hat, etc., can add another 15 pounds to your body weight. Because of the need to use your fingers precisely and bend your toes, a contractor can only wear small gloves and boots. For most roofers, it is uncomfortable below freezing and impossible with temperatures below that.

Second, the roofing crew uses many different tools. Some of them aren’t affected by temperature; but some, like compressors and nail guns, are certainly affected. When compressing and releasing the air in your system, humidity will turn into water. If the temperature is close to freezing, this water will freeze in the airlines and reduce the airflow that the installer receives on the roof. Nails needs to be installed flush with the shingle, not overdriven or under driven. When the airline is obstructed by ice, nails are not pushed as deep as they should, which introduces a risk for under driven nails. This situation will require extra attention from the roofer to constantly set the depth adjuster on the gun and from the crew to monitor the presence of humidity or ice in the system.

Third, there’s the question of whether shingles should be installed in cold weather. The short answer is yes, but with some precautions. The asphaltic material in the shingle will lose its flexibility and resistance as the temperature goes down. It will become harder to bend the shingles and to cut them straight. Being more “brittle,” they’ll be more likely to be overdriven by nails when using regular pressure in the system. The "sweet spot” adjustment in pressure will become smaller and smaller. However, providing that the crew is extra conscious of that and takes the time to do it right, there are ways to deliver a proper installation. Another important consideration is if cold weather application increases the chances of blow-offs. All shingles are equipped with a self-sealant strip, a line of glue that activates with the sun and tabs the shingles together, preventing the wind from catching them. If the shingles are NOT tabbing properly because of temperature, they should be hand-sealed. This will prevent the wind to lift them before there is sufficient heat for them to self-seal.

The manufacturer is responsible for the self-seal to properly bond to the roof when activated. The roofing contractor is responsible for making sure the crew is comfortable enough to apply the shingles properly and that the temperature or countermeasures taken are sufficient to have a constant airflow to avoid overdriven or under driven nails. Finally, the crew leader or site supervisor is responsible for deciding if the roof is tabbing or not and if cold weather precautions (hand seal) should be taken. Sometimes, the seriousness of the roof situation outweighs the risk of doing the job in winter, but in most cases, when replacing your roof during the winter - it’s wise to wait until the temperature is above freezing.

How Much Snow Can Your Roof Handle?

During a big winter snow storm people often are asked to stay inside and off the impassable roads. Your roof is then left to endure the elements and expected to keep you and your family safe... But what happens if your roof can’t handle the pressure? Here’s some information to share with your homeowners while they are stuck inside.

Signs that a roof may be at risk from bearing the weight of the heavy white stuff:

● Visible Sagging

● Noises that sound like creaking or popping

● Leaking coming from the roof

Flat or low-pitched roofs are more vulnerable, but pitched roofs can still be at risk when the snow is very heavy.

When it’s safe to travel, contractors in the area or within driving distance have an opportunity to help homeowners repair an unsafe roof. Unfortunately, there are never any guarantees when it comes to the strength of a roof due to factors including: age of structure, age of roof, slope of roof, (in)effective roof installation, etc. In general, as much snow as possible should be raked off their roof, but leave a few inches to avoid damaging the shingles. Also, make sure the snow is thrown away from the building and be careful using metal tools around power lines. Contractors should advise homeowners to call their insurance company to see if they are covered in the event of a roof collapse. 

Call Trudel at (905) 642-3515 if you have any reservations about the condition of your roof this winter, we will provide you with peace of mind with our comprehensive roof inspection including a full detailed report on the condition and life expectancy of your roof.

Weighing the Pros and Cons of Aluminum Siding

Aluminum siding is a tried, tested, and true siding product. For more than 50 years it has been sought after for its status as the most cost effective, maintenance free, and effective siding on the market. Nearly every other building material has yet to surpass it in efficiency, and if you're aware of its few shortcomings and willing to work around them - you're sure to purchase a long-lasting, nearly maintenance free siding that will beautify your home for years to come.

Why Choose Aluminum Siding? 

This is one of the easiest questions to answer in the siding industry. For starters, aluminum is a weather and corrosion resistant material. It won't rot, rust or otherwise let you down. It's also incredibly cost effective when compared to other siding materials. Include the facts that it can be repainted if you're looking to improve the curb appeal of your home, and that it can mimic wood siding - and you're talking a siding material that stands on the heads of others.

What about Its Faults? 

As with any material, aluminum does have a few downsides as a siding product. First and foremost, it isn't as tough as some of the other materials on the market. It can dent and scratch easily in the hands of careless homeowners. Take care with your ladders and keep a can of touch up paint handy to treat any potential blemishes. The other criticism of aluminum siding is that it has a tendency to corrode at times. That shortcoming is more often than not the fault of the homeowner. If you regularly clean your siding, perform maintenance on any dents and scratches, and re-paint your siding every 20 to 30 years when it becomes necessary, you shouldn't have any problems with this popular material.

A Few Installation Tips...

Another benefit of aluminum is its ease of installation. Whether you're a dedicated "DIY-er", or are concerned about what it will cost to have aluminum siding installed by a contractor, you can rest easy that this is one of the most straightforward installation projects in the industry. Due to its relatively lightweight make-up, it's easy to work with, and if you know the ins and outs of the material, it's really easy to put up.

Put Up a Sufficient Backing. Foam board coupled with the appropriate furring not only ensures an even and seamless installation, it increases your home's insulation value as well.

Don't nail the product fast to the structure. Instead, use aluminum nails and be sure never to sink the nails in completely. That extra wiggle room is important since aluminum siding expands and contracts significantly with weather changes.

Plan for Expansion as you cut the materials to size. Remember, aluminum will expand 1/16 to 1/8 inch per 10 foot length in adverse weather, so be sure to account for that when you measure siding material and install it on your home.

By anticipating these common aluminum installation mistakes, you can be sure your aluminum siding will serve you well for years to come. If you have doubts about your ability to install this siding correctly, don't feel shy about contacting us at (905)642-3515 in order to get your new siding installation project underway as soon as possible!

Benefits of a Metal Roof During Winter

Winter is here, as we all know too well, but it's never too late to begin a roofing project - or least begin planning for one. There are many myths about metal roofing, however; one thing is true - metal roofing has many advantages. 

Metal roofing is an optimal roofing composite because it does not deteriorate and is very visually appealing. The material will end up costing you less in the long run due to its durability and resistance to the elements. In addition, it can truly increase the financial value of a home. Here are three reasons that metal roofing is a great winter option for your home or business:

1. It seals in the heat. Metal roofs can actually insulate your home and keep cold air from entering. In fact, the material might even lower your heating bills! A fun fact about metal roofing is that it can be installed over a roof you already have which will further prevent warm air from leaving and cool air from entering. This will keep your house cool in the summer as well.

2. Metal roofs can be installed during the winter. It's true that other roofing composites can be installed during the winter, however; the process will not be as simple. Metal roofing can be installed and the winter elements will have no affect on the process. In fact, a non-metal roof often weakens from heavy snow and cold weather.

3. It can shed the snow. This is especially true if you have a sloped roof. When snow melts during the spring, you will see it quickly slide off of your roof. The metal will prevent ice from building up and ruining your gutters. In addition, the chance of having leaks is extremely unlikely because metal will stand up to the harsh winter climate without breaking.

If your home or business is in need of a new roof, but you feel that it's too late in the season, we hope this article negates any misconceptions that you may have. The truth is - metal roofing is great for winter as it can be installed throughout the year, reduce your heating costs and shed snow. If you have any questions about winter metal roofing installation, feel free to contact our experts at (905)642-3515. We’d love to hear from you!

How to Make Your Shingle Roof Green

Your roof should be near the top of your home improvement list when it comes to going green.The constant exposure to the elements make your roof the perfect candidate to reap the benefits of the energy efficiency that comes with a green roofing system. Since your roof is one of the more important structural features keeping you and your family safe, it's easy to see why homeowners are quickly being drawn to the workmanship and highlights that green remodels are best known for.

Taking Your Asphalt Shingle Roof Green:

Despite the fact that roofing looks good in green, homeowners ought to know that asphalt roofing shingles are not the greenest product around. They are a petroleum-based product, require a lot of energy to manufacture, have a relatively short lifespan, and account for a shockingly large percentage of the construction waste that is shipped to landfills every year. On the other side of the topic, asphalt shingle roofing is probably the most cost-effective roofing solution on the market when it comes to materials and installation; which ultimately secures their status, for the time being, as a cornerstone of the roofing industry. The key is making your asphalt shingle roofing installation as green as you possibly can by installing 40- or 50-year rated shingles.

Energy Savings and Green Asphalt Roofing:

Choosing a greener asphalt roof almost always translates into cheaper energy bills down the road. Here are a few things that will get you the most out of your green conversion:

Install Light Colored Roofing:

Light colored roofing is will reflect heat from the sun rather than absorb it. The result is a cooler home, and reduced cooling bills (especially if you have air conditioning ductwork in the attic). Light colored shingles also make for a longer lasting roof, thanks to the fact that a lighter roof will experience less contraction and expansion over its lifetime than a dark one.

Install Radiant Heat Barriers:

Radiant heat barriers are a thin layer of metal insulation, which can reduce radiant heat transfer into your attic up to 95 percent when installed to the underside of your roof. Radiant heat barriers are a great addition for any home, but they are especially effective for reducing air conditioning costs if your ductwork is located overhead.

Environmentally Friendly Asphalt Shingle Roofing:

As mentioned before, the terms "environmentally friendly" and "asphalt shingles" don't generally show up in the same sentence very often. Nevertheless, here are some things that you and your contractor can do to make sure that your asphalt shingle roof is as green as they come.

Install Recycled Content Asphalt Roofing:

Recycled asphalt shingles contain recycled waste paper and/or use reclaimed material slag in their aggregate surfaces. Since discarded, asphalt shingles are a major source of construction waste. Anything you can to do to offset that, such as cutting down on the waste of raw materials on the manufacturing end, is a plus.

Energy Savings:

Since energy savings mean reduced fossil fuel consumption, any energy savings you incur by adopting green remodeling methods with your asphalt roofing shingles is good for the environment, and your pocketbook.

Minimize Waste & Recycle Building Materials:

Measure your roof and order roofing materials carefully to minimize the waste sent to landfills. Also, remember that 85 to 90 percent of construction waste is recyclable, either by reusing it or disposing of it at facilities that will recycle the materials.

Purchase Roofing with a Longer Life:

Asphalt shingle roofing can last as little as 12 years before needing replacement. By purchasing shingles with a longer lifespan, you'll reduce the amount of waste that goes into landfills and probably save yourself money in the long run since you won't have to spring for a new roof every 10 to 20 years.

Calculating the True Value of Going Green with Your Asphalt Shingle Roof:

By now you're probably wondering what it's going to cost you if you go green with your asphalt shingle roofing? Probably not much more than if you don't. You may pay more for a radiant heat barrier, recycled content asphalt shingles, and higher quality, longer lasting roofing materials, but when you factor in energy savings and going longer between re-roofing projects -- you're going to break even, if not save a little in the long run. The focus here is that going green is worth a lot more than you can measure in dollars and cents. Green roofs are healthier, longer lasting, lower maintenance roofing solutions. If you think green is the right choice for you, be sure to talk to your contractor about adopting a green building philosophy. At Trudel and Sons Roofing we specialize in Green Roofing, and we are always willing to help you plan and design the most efficient and green roof possible.

Slate Roofing: The Good, The Bad, and The Cost.

The history of slate roofing is definitely a lengthy one. On one hand, slate roofing is generally known as one of the highest quality, longest lasting roofing materials on the market. On the other hand, the high cost, difficult installation, and fragile nature of slate roofing can leave little to be desired for some. Here's the good, the bad, and the costs that come with slate roofing:

The Good:
Due to the fact that it's a natural stone product, slate tiles have some huge upsides. In addition to being unique and appealing, slate roof tiles are known for their longevity among other roofing systems. Slate roofing tiles also offer more choices with regard to size, colour, and thickness which also contribute to their longevity factor; and in a world where a standard roof can be expected to last just 20-30 years, longevity is crucial. While on the topic of longevity, slate roofing tiles are regarded as the most fire resistant and environmentally friendly thus adding to their desirability.

The Bad:
Unfortunately, many contractors know very little about slate roofs. What's even more unfortunate is despite that fact, some contractors will advance with your slate roof installation anyway. When hiring your roofing contractor, be sure to inquire about experience and ask for references. A well installed slate roof could last you and your home a century, however, a poorly installed slate roof could feel like not having a roof at all. With regard to durability, slate roofing can be a big negative for homeowners. When it comes to your slate roof, the understanding of its delicacy cannot be stressed enough. Before you or any type of contractor ventures on to your slate roof, it is of the utmost importance to be aware of the proper precautions that need to be taken such as proper footwear. Always remember, the less time you spend on your slate roof - the better. It's also important to note that slate roofing is sold in lots, and those can change over the years. So if you have slate roofing damage any number of years after installation, there will never be a guarantee that your new tiles will match your old ones.

The Cost:
The most notable con when it comes to installing a slate tile roof on your home is its high cost. $1000-$4000 per square tile can seem a bit daunting upon initial investment, however, when the options are weighed against an asphalt roofing system that will need to be replaced more frequently, it makes more economical sense.

How to Recognize and Prevent Ice Damming

The cold winter season is the time when many homeowners see icicles hanging from their eaves or water coming in the house due to ice damming on the roof. An ice dam is a ridge of ice that forms at the edge of a roof and prevents melting snow/water from draining properly off the roof. The water that then backs up behind the dam can leak into your home and cause damage to walls, ceilings, insulation, and other areas. 

There are three main causes of ice damming:

• Poor insulation from a house ceiling. An attic with inadequate or deteriorated insulation can cause ice damming.

• Lack of ventilation. A house with proper ventilation allows the necessary cold air to mix and cool the hot air from the house, which slows the snow melting down.

• Leaking gaps between the living space and the attic. These spaces allow extra heat to “escape” into the attic, which warms the space and melts even more snow.

Here is what you can do to prevent ice damming:

• Seal the living space.

• Install adequate attic insulation.

• Make sure that the attic is properly ventilated.

Shingle roofs are designed to shed water; they are engineered and installed to reject freestanding water. That is why a good quality leak barrier is needed at the eaves. The most important thing a contractor can do to help homeowners with ice dam problems is to first clean the snow off the roof (following strict safety rules) and then create exits for the trapped water.

Preventing ice dams and icicles may not be possible at all times, but these are measures that can be taken to help stop water from entering the house.

10 Signs You Need a New Roof

If you're like most homeowners, getting a good look at your roof happens from your vehicle as you move in and out of the driveway shuttling kids or running errands. However, inspecting your roof on a regular basis and mending areas that need repair can prevent unexpected costs later on. Not to mention, keeping your roof in good condition will also benefit you if you decide to put your home on the market.

"What should I be looking for, then?", you ask. Well, the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) recommends inspecting your roof at least twice a year - spring and fall. The best place to start is inside your home, so, grab a flashlight and venture up to the attic.

While at the highest point of the inside of your home, here's what you want to look for:

1) Signs of water damage/leaking.

2) Places where the roof is sagging.

3) Exterior light shining through the roof.

4) Dark spots/trails.

Once you make your way outside and to the tip top of your home, make sure to pay extra attention to things such as missing shingles, damaged flashing, rotting or algae growth, curling, blistering, or buckling. Areas where some shingles are darker than others are a huge concern for bigger problems as that's where moisture has already begun to collect. Here's some tips for inspecting/handling these issues outside of your home:

5) Scan the roof for loose material/wear around the chimney, vents, pipes and other exposed penetrations.

6) Check all kitchen, bath and dryer vents and ensure they run completely outside of your home - not just into the attic space.

7) Check for signs of moisture, mold, or rot. Water can travel down to its lowest spot before it starts dripping inside the home and mold, fungi and bacteria can grow within 24-48 hours of a water related issue.

8) Visually inspect your roof for cracked, bald, torn or missing shingles.

9) Be aware of an excessive amount of shingle granules in your gutters - a sign of advanced wear.

10) Examine your drainage and make sure all gutters and downspouts are securely attached. Also ensure drainage is open and allows water to flow out freely.