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The Duration Of Your Roof Replacement

Recognizing that your home’s roofing system has deteriorated is the first step in the replacement process. However, before your roofing company sets up camp on your property for the next few days, there are a few matters that need to be considered first.

The first step is having your roof inspected to determine the state of your roof and whether it requires a replacement. If it does, you need to get a quote for your new roof from your trusted roofing company.

Once you and your roofing company have decided on the best roofing materials, cost of these materials, and labor, all you need to do then is determine a date for when the project is set to commence. Setting a date is vital for your own peace of mind. It will give you a time frame to remove any objects that could get damaged during construction, as well as make provisions should you and your family have to relocate during the re-roofing project temporarily.

You may also be curious to know how long a roof replacement project takes so that you can return to your regular schedule and enjoy the benefits of your new roof.

Below we break down the duration of your roofing project and what influences it:

Tear Off Process

To install your new roofing system, your old roof needs to come down first. Your professional roofer will use this opportunity to determine the health of your roofing deck as well as the rest of your roofing structure. This analysis is important before any new materials are installed.

Depending on the materials and the size of your roof, removing your old roof can take between 1 to 2 days to complete.

Installation

The duration of your roofing installation usually depends on the size and complexity of your home and rooftop, as well as the materials being installed.

An average-sized roof is about 2000 square feet. A roof this size can take about a day to complete, depending on the roofing materials.

Asphalt shingles can be installed in 1 to 2 days; flat roofs take about three and metal roof installations about two to four days. A natural slate installation sometimes requires a full week due to the intricacies involved in its installation.

Things That Can Prolong Your Installation Project

The Weather

Severe weather conditions can drastically affect the schedule of your roofing installation project.

Things like heavy rains, hail, or lightning can make working on your roof challenging and dangerous for your roofing team. Some materials also need to be installed in more moderate to warm weather conditions to set accurately.

Working in the scorching sun may be less difficult for your roofing team than storming weather. But to get the most out of their day, it is recommended that they start earlier and avoid severe heat conditions as this can lead to lethargy and dehydration.

Significant Roof Damage

If your roof is severely damaged, the repair process may prolong your roof replacement project. Some damages can be mended with nails and plywood, whereas others may need an entire construction team.

If damages have spread to the structures of your roof and your home, you can expect significant delays in your roofing replacement project.

Injuries

While every precaution is taken to ensure that your roofing company performs your roof installation in a safe, danger-free environment, roofing, in general, is one of the most dangerous occupations.

Injuries are common on a roofing job, but your roofing company should have replacement roofers to come in and complete the job.

If you’re ready to replace the roof of your home, don’t hesitate to call Certified Roofing.   Proudly serving the cities of Bethesda, Chevy Chase, Clarksville, Columbia, Elkridge, Ellicott City, Frederick, Fulton, Gaithersburg, Germantown, Green Valley, Highland, Hunt Valley, Hyattsville, Kensington, Laurel, Lutherville, Montgomery Village, North Laurel, Olney, Owings Mills, Potomac, Rockville, Silver Spring, Takoma Park, Timonium, Towson, Wheaton, Woodstock, Washington, D.C., Northern Virginia, and all surrounding areas.

4 Benefits of Asphalt Shingle Roofing

Asphalt shingles are one of the most popular roofing materials in the US. They’re found on about 70% of American homes, and their numbers keep growing year by year.

If you’re considering installing an asphalt shingle roofing system for your home, but you’re not quite sure what all the hype is about, well, then carry on reading as we detail the benefits of a professionally installed asphalt shingle roofing system.

 

Versatility

If you have an aesthetic preference in mind, you’d be happy to know that asphalt shingles are available in just about any color scheme that you can imagine. They allow homeowners to customize their rooftops in any which way they please.

 

Easy Installation

Asphalt shingles are practically available in every roofing and hardware store across the country. If you decide to start your roofing project tomorrow, you wouldn’t have to wait weeks for an order to arrive the way you would have to wait for materials like tile or metal.

Installing an asphalt shingle roofing system takes about one to two days, so your daily routine won’t be drastically interrupted by your roof installation project.

 

Affordable

For those of us with limited financial means, an asphalt shingle roof is the most affordable option on the market. If you need to replace your roofing system urgently, this material is perfect for you.

The material’s versatility affords homeowners various price points, and because of their popularity, many roofers offer fantastic discounts, upgrades, and sometimes even free repairs.

 

Environmentally Friendly

Keeping the environment in mind, asphalt shingles have become an eco-friendly roofing option. These roofing materials can be recycled to create new roofing shingles as well as be incorporated into the asphalt mixtures used to create roads and sidewalks.

 

If you’re looking for a professional asphalt shingle roof installation, who better to call than Certified Roofing. As Maryland’s leading residential roofing company, we guarantee excellent customer and roofing services every time!   Proudly serving the cities of Bethesda, Chevy Chase, Clarksville, Columbia, Elkridge, Ellicott City, Frederick, Fulton, Gaithersburg, Germantown, Green Valley, Highland, Hunt Valley, Hyattsville, Kensington, Laurel, Lutherville, Montgomery Village, North Laurel, Olney, Owings Mills, Potomac, Rockville, Silver Spring, Takoma Park, Timonium, Towson, Wheaton, Woodstock, Washington, D.C., Northern Virginia, and all surrounding areas.

Why Lichens Should Be Removed From Your Roof

Living roofs are all the craze for modern homes and those with a flair for unique architecture. Living roofing systems have different types of plant life, adding a natural flare to homes in need of something new that will also help keep your home cool come summertime.

However, if you have moss, algae, and lichen growing on your roof, please note that these are not green roofing features. These plant organisms can cause significant damage to your roofing systems and should be removed immediately. Today, we’ll be taking a look at how lichens can affect the roof of your home and why you should get rid of them when first spotted.

 

What Are Lichens?

Lichens are an organism that evolves from the interaction between algae and fungi. These organisms can grow on basically any surface, even harsh elements like extreme ice and heat conditions! According to research, they’ve been found in almost every environment possible, so no matter where you live, your house is susceptible to lichen growth.

 

How Lichen Affects Your Roof

 

Ruins Your Curb Appeal

Lichen growths on your rooftop can create quite an unsightly image. They’ll make your roof look like it is poorly maintained and deteriorated. If you plan on selling your home, significant lichen growth on your rooftop can affect your home’s selling price.

 

Harm Your Shingles

Lichens can eat away at your roofing shingle and effectively remove its top layer. This will dramatically reduce the ability of your roof to protect you from harsh weather conditions, potentially damaging it irreparably. Lichen will also significantly reduce your home’s exterior color by creating uneven patches across the roof and building’s surface.

 

Loosen Shingles

If lichen can grow beneath your roofing shingles, it may loosen the shingles over time and eventually cause them to detach completely. If the lichen growth on your roof is quite significant, you may lose quite a bit of roofing shingles, which will expose the roof deck of your home to the elements.

 

Difficult to Navigate Across Your Roof

Trying to walk across your roof if you have lichen growth can be pretty tricky. This is because the wet, slimy surface will make it hard for anyone to stand up there without slipping and falling.

 

For information on lichen, moss, or algae growth on your roofing system, give Certified Roofing a call today!   Proudly serving the cities of Bethesda, Chevy Chase, Clarksville, Columbia, Elkridge, Ellicott City, Frederick, Fulton, Gaithersburg, Germantown, Green Valley, Highland, Hunt Valley, Hyattsville, Kensington, Laurel, Lutherville, Montgomery Village, North Laurel, Olney, Owings Mills, Potomac, Rockville, Silver Spring, Takoma Park, Timonium, Towson, Wheaton, Woodstock, Washington, D.C., Northern Virginia, and all surrounding areas.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Metal Roofing

Metal is a high-performing roofing material. Its weather resistance, durability, and longevity have made it a favorite amongst commercial business owners for years. Homeowners have often been reluctant to install a metal roofing system on their houses due to its reputation of being incredibly loud and dull. However, the roofing material has developed in leaps and bounds over the years and has become a leading roofing option for residential and commercial purposes.

Metal roofing systems are tough and durable. They also work well for people seeking a contemporary look, but they have their drawbacks too. Read on to find out more about the advantages and disadvantages of metal roofing.

 

Advantages

 

Durability

Metal roofing is often praised for its weather resistance and sturdiness. The roofing material can withstand most weather conditions and offers homeowners long-lasting protection from the elements. They’re able to resist wind speeds of up to 140 mph, their high reflectance shields your home from harmful UV rays, and they’re capable of shedding large snow loads quickly.

 

Low Maintenance

Why deal with the headache of maintenance when you don’t have to? Metal roofing is not only durable but also practically indestructible. If rust and oxidation are your concern, we recommend steel or copper as they both come equipped with natural protective layers that will ward off any corrosion for years on end without a single touch-up.

 

Versatility

A large percentage of homeowners are two-minded about installing a metal roofing system because they believe that the roofing material only comes in one shade and one style. You’d be happy to know that due to metal’s malleability, you can have metal shakes, shingles, as well as tile and slate metal imitations installed on your home. You can hone in on the strength and durability of a metal roof while enjoying the benefits of other more expensive roofing materials.

 

Disadvantages

 

Initial Cost

The initial cost of a metal roof might scare homeowners away, but it is a long-term investment. It has a lifespan of more than 50 years and requires minimal maintenance, making it the most cost-effective in the end.

 

Require A Specialist

To get the most out of your metal roofing system and ensure that it lasts as long as possible, you would require a metal roofing specialist to install your rooftop. Inexperienced roofing contractors may take shortcuts or not know what to do should when a problem arises. Using a non-specialized roofer may also impact your material’s warranty and your roofing insurance.

 

Denting

While metal is a highly durable material, if you live in an area that experiences golf ball-sized hail, chances are, over time, your roof may be covered with dents. But it’s important to note that any roofing system will suffer significant damage when exposed to such big hailstones, and rather than having huge holes through the ceiling, which you’re likely to experience with any other roofing material, one or two small but annoying dents is easier to deal with.

 

Thinking about installing a metal roofing system for your home? If you’re ready to commit to the best roofing material on the market, then give Certified Roofing a call today!  Proudly serving the cities of Bethesda, Chevy Chase, Clarksville, Columbia, Elkridge, Ellicott City, Frederick, Fulton, Gaithersburg, Germantown, Green Valley, Highland, Hunt Valley, Hyattsville, Kensington, Laurel, Lutherville, Montgomery Village, North Laurel, Olney, Owings Mills, Potomac, Rockville, Silver Spring, Takoma Park, Timonium, Towson, Wheaton, Woodstock, Washington, D.C., Northern Virginia, and all surrounding areas.

Why Is My New Roof Leaking?

Investing in a new roofing system can be quite exciting but pretty expensive at the same time. A new roof installation can give your home a new look and feel, adding significantly to your home’s curb appeal.

But installing a new roof is not just about visual aesthetics; it’s also meant to give your home the strength and durability necessary to withstand whatever mother nature throws at it.

By installing a new roof, it’s natural to expect all these advantages from your new roof. Therefore, there’s probably nothing more frustrating than experiencing roofing issues, like leaking, shortly after installing your new roof.

A new roof that’s leaking is a combination of poor workmanship and cheap materials. This is why it’s important to not go for the contractor that underquotes you, they could be inexperienced, unsure how long roofing installation takes, or the best materials to use.

At Certified Roofing, we will always provide you with a thorough roofing quote, transparent advice, and professional roofing services. If your new roof is leaking, don’t hesitate to call Certified Roofing.

 

Why Your New Roof Is Leaking

 

Your Shingles Were Incorrectly Installed

If your shingles are not accurately installed, there may be gaps between the roofing materials that will allow water to get in and soak through. If you’re unlucky enough for rain or snow to come by during this time, then these poorly installed shingles can easily fall off with no hope whatsoever, leaving a gaping hole where one was originally supposed to keep out the precipitation.

Your roofing materials need to be correctly installed and tightly fastened onto your roof for you to reap the benefits.

 

Your Flashing Isn’t Properly Installed

The point of roof flashing is to guide water away from critical points in your roofing system. These areas include the area around your chimney, skylights, and vents.

If it is not installed correctly, this may lead to water seeping into your home and damaging its interior.

 

Your Gutter System Is Faulty

Your gutter system is one of the most important features on your roof that help to protect your roof and home from water damage. If your gutter system hasn’t been installed improperly or is clogged due to a build-up of dirt and debris, there may be an increase in standing water on your roof. This often leads to leaking.

When installing a new roof, always make sure that your gutter system is in working order.

 

Your Roof Deck Is In Poor Condition

There may be leaking in your home due to your roof deck being in poor condition. If you’ve just had a new roof installed and there’s still leaking occurring, the chances are that your shingles were installed on a dysfunctional roof deck.

Roofers should be sure to inspect your home’s roof deck before installing the new material on it.

 

For professional roofing services that you can always rely on, give Certified Roofing a call today!   Proudly serving the cities of Bethesda, Chevy Chase, Clarksville, Columbia, Elkridge, Ellicott City, Frederick, Fulton, Gaithersburg, Germantown, Green Valley, Highland, Hunt Valley, Hyattsville, Kensington, Laurel, Lutherville, Montgomery Village, North Laurel, Olney, Owings Mills, Potomac, Rockville, Silver Spring, Takoma Park, Timonium, Towson, Wheaton, Woodstock, Washington, D.C., Northern Virginia, and all surrounding areas.

How To Make Your Roofing System A Little More Eco-Friendly

The green movement is on the rise with Americans learning more and more ways to reduce their carbon footprint. Even if you’re not ready to make a drastic lifestyle change, there are still many simple adjustments that everyone can easily incorporate into their everyday lives such as recycling aluminum cans instead of throwing them in landfills or replacing an old light bulb with one made from LEDs which will last much longer than traditional incandescent bulbs.

The embracing of environmentally conscious lifestyles has become increasingly common among US citizens who want to find new tips and tricks about how they can live sustainably while reducing waste simultaneously.

 

Today, we’ll break down how your roofing system can help you reduce your carbon footprint.

 

Installing Recycled Asphalt Shingles

Recycled Asphalt Shingles (RAS) is a new roofing material on the market. Developed by GAF, RAS is made up of 15% recycled asphalt materials that were sourced from tear-off roofing processes.

Every year, 12 million tons of asphalt roofing waste end up in landfills. By installing a RAS roofing system, you would not only be making your roofing system a little more eco-friendly, but you would be reducing the amount of asphalt waste produced every year.

 

Metal Roof Installations

Metal roofs are certainly the eco-friendly roofing system worth considering. Not only is metal made from recycled materials, but it can be easily recycled once your current roof reaches its end of lifespan – which is in like 30 – 50 years.

Metal reflects UV light better than any other material out there meaning you’ll spend less on energy bills and enjoy more natural heat protection for those cold winter months ahead.

 

Collect Stormwater

Usually, when an area experiences significant rainfall, this rain is efficiently transported away from your home via your gutter system. This water then flows into the nearest drain and is then taken away by the municipal stormwater pipes.

However, what if we told you that you could collect this water and use it for things like watering your garden or washing your car. Using this water, you can reduce your water bill and help save the planet at the same time.

 

Invest in Solar Panels or Solar Shingles

Solar panels or solar shingles are a great way to power your home with the sun’s energy. Embracing this clean form of renewable electricity in our homes can reduce how much we rely on heavy and polluting fossil fuel-powered plants, which produce billions of tons worth of carbon dioxide each year.

The federal government offers homeowners who have installed these technologies nearly $2000 in tax breaks as well. That means that not only will you be saving money from installing them but doing your bit to save the environment as well.

For tips and tricks on how you can make your home more energy-efficient and eco-friendly, give Certified Roofing a call today!   Proudly serving the cities of Bethesda, Chevy Chase, Clarksville, Columbia, Elkridge, Ellicott City, Frederick, Fulton, Gaithersburg, Germantown, Green Valley, Highland, Hunt Valley, Hyattsville, Kensington, Laurel, Lutherville, Montgomery Village, North Laurel, Olney, Owings Mills, Potomac, Rockville, Silver Spring, Takoma Park, Timonium, Towson, Wheaton, Woodstock, Washington, D.C., Northern Virginia, and all surrounding areas.

4 Non-Aesthetic Factors to Consider For Your New Columbia Roof

When you’re choosing a roofing material for your home, there’s a considerable spread of factors to take into consideration. Of course, you want a visually pleasing roof, but there’s so much more to your roof than its aesthetic value. You should take into account durability, as well as the weather conditions it is likely to endure.

Many homeowners don’t even know where to begin when it comes to these things, though. At roofing company Certified Roofing, we’re here to share a few important things to consider when choosing materials for your roof.

 

Weight

Not many people take the importance of their roofing materials into account, but it is relevant. A lightweight roof can significantly decrease roofing installation costs. Choosing a lighter material than your current roofing material can prevent you from having to shell out too much for a replacement. The best lightweight options are asphalt shingles and metal roofing. These materials are durable, so you won’t need to worry about further work for some time.

 

Durability

Your roof must be able to stand up to the elements. Durability should be one of your most important considerations when choosing a material. The best material choice depends mostly on where you live in the country. Strong winds, extreme temperatures, insect infestations, torrential downpours, and risk of fire are possible anywhere in the United States.

Homeowners should opt for a roofing system that can tolerate all kinds of weather but is also optimal for the unique climate challenges of their region. The best performing materials are tiles made from clay and concrete along with metal roofing.

 

Maintenance

Because roofs are exposed to the elements, they will wear down over the years. Winds will tear shingles off, and animals can get in and cause damage. Flashing can go missing, and tiles can break. All these issues will need to be promptly remedied to protect your roof and your home.

You should periodically check your roof to see if it requires any repairs, especially after storms. Expect to spend money on maintaining your roof throughout the years. You can shave off some of the costs by choosing a low-maintenance roof. Metal roofs are a winner here, along with asphalt shingles. Both choices can stand up to the elements and remain functional while still being a highly attractive roofing material to set off your home.

 

Energy Efficiency

Your home’s roof directly impacts how energy-efficient your home is. To keep heating and cooling costs low, you’ll want a highly reflective roofing material. Also, consider how well ventilated your roof is.

Certain materials like ceramic or clay tiles can also provide an extra layer of insulation through the air pocket they create. Metal roofing solutions are an excellent choice for reflectivity, and asphalt shingles are ideal for helping your attic stay cool.

If you need some help choosing the right roofing material for your home, get in touch with our team of roofing professionals in Columbia today for a free consultation.   Proudly serving the cities of Bethesda, Chevy Chase, Clarksville, Columbia, Elkridge, Ellicott City, Frederick, Fulton, Gaithersburg, Germantown, Green Valley, Highland, Hunt Valley, Hyattsville, Kensington, Laurel, Lutherville, Montgomery Village, North Laurel, Olney, Owings Mills, Potomac, Rockville, Silver Spring, Takoma Park, Timonium, Towson, Wheaton, Woodstock, Washington, D.C., Northern Virginia, and all surrounding areas.

4 Warning Signs Your Columbia Roof Is In Disrepair

Many people don’t give much thought when it comes to their roofs. Often as soon as it is installed, it is pretty much never thought of again. That is until it starts causing little inconveniences in your daily life. Minor leaks and spots of light in your attic are some warning signs that the roof of your home may be in disrepair.

At Certified Roofing, our trusted roofing experts are there to see to all your residential roofing needs. We offer fast and efficient roofing services to the local Columbia community. Give Maryland’s top-rated roofing company a call today for your free roof inspection.

 

These are some of the main warning signs that your Columbia roof may be in disrepair:

 

Curling or Missing Shingles

Curling or missing shingles result from wear and tear and the onslaught of severe weather conditions. Curling or missing shingles can leave your home further exposed to the elements and offers reduced protection from the outside world. Your house is now highly susceptible to leaks. This water exposure can damage the inner structures of your home.

 

Holes

Holes in your roof means that there may be missing shingles on your roof or gaps in between the roofing material. Gaps in your roofing material mean that your roof was inaccurately installed. It is best to have this seen to, to prevent further damages to your home.

Holes also allow an increase in water leakages in your home.

 

Age

An old roof, especially one that hasn’t been adequately maintained, provides your home with less protection than a newly installed one. You can tell that your roof is old once you start to notice your shingles peeling back or an increase in water exposure and dust in your home. A well-maintained roof can last you anywhere between 30 to 80 years, depending on the roofing material.

 

Sagging Roof

A sagging roof means that your home’s inner structures are significantly damaged. A sagging roof is caused by years of exposure to severe weather conditions, water damage and poor roof maintenance. A sagging roof poses a significant physical risk to you, your family and your home. It is best to tend to this matter as soon as possible.

 

Columbia MD’s #1 Roofing Contractors

At Certified Roofing, we take the time to install your residential roof perfectly. We don’t cut corners or waste your time and money. Our professional roofer will guide you throughout the entire roofing process so that you know exactly what to expect when working with us. For roofing that you can rely on, give roofing company Certified Roofing in Columbia a call today.  Proudly serving the cities of Bethesda, Chevy Chase, Clarksville, Columbia, Elkridge, Ellicott City, Frederick, Fulton, Gaithersburg, Germantown, Green Valley, Highland, Hunt Valley, Hyattsville, Kensington, Laurel, Lutherville, Montgomery Village, North Laurel, Olney, Owings Mills, Potomac, Rockville, Silver Spring, Takoma Park, Timonium, Towson, Wheaton, Woodstock, Washington, D.C., Northern Virginia, and all surrounding areas.

The Top 4 Residential Roofs On The Columbia Market

There are many different materials to choose from when it’s time to replace your home’s roof. You can select from man-made materials, such as asphalt, or natural alternatives like wood. Though you’re certainly not limited to just those two examples.
Every kind has a range of benefits and aesthetic properties, and it’s undoubtedly worthwhile finding your perfect match.

Because there are so many options, making a choice can be overwhelming for many homeowners. Our team of roofing experts here at Certified Roofing in Columbia is happy to help reduce the stress that can come with roof replacements.

Let’s discuss the benefits and drawbacks of the four most popular residential roofing materials.

 

Asphalt Shingles

This material has withstood the test of time and is still extremely popular today. Even as other new alternatives come and go, asphalt shingles can be found on nearly 80% of homes in the United States. Asphalt shingles are affordable, making them ideal for any homeowners on a budget.

This material can also be attached in different ways to create various aesthetic outcomes. Asphalt shingles are highly resistant to wind and fire and are easily replaced if lost. While they can last up to 20 years, they are not as durable as other materials

.

Flat Roofs

While not the most popular choice for traditional homes, flat roofs can wonderfully complement modern houses. Flat roofs allow easy accessibility for roofing company, meaning that getting the job done is quick and cost-effective. Inspections and repairs can be carried out quickly, as well. Flat roofs offer a sleek look to your home, and they are an easy, low-maintenance roofing option.

 

Metal Roofing

Though asphalt shingles remain the most popular choice, metal roofing is gaining popularity. While this material will cost you more upfront, metal roofing systems have a lot more to offer than other materials. They have superior resistance to wind and fire, and they’re very eco-friendly. They can also reduce your energy costs thanks to their reflective abilities.

There are various metal roofing options, such as copper, aluminum, zinc and more. Metal roofing systems have a long lifespan, too, averaging around 70 years.

 

Tile Roofing

When it comes to longevity, clay tiles top the list. With proper care and maintenance, clay tiles can last up to 100 years on your home’s roof. They are also fireproof and highly resistant to wind, rain, and hail damage.

The way clay tiles are laid on your roof creates an air pocket that forms an additional layer of insulation, too. Concrete tiles are another attractive option, though they aren’t quite as durable as clay. You can expect about 50 years out of concrete tiles.

If you are a homeowner considering a roof replacement, the experienced team at Certified Roofing’s is here to help. Give the reliable Columbia roofers a call today, and we’ll happily give you a free estimate for all your roofing needs.  Proudly serving the cities of Bethesda, Chevy Chase, Clarksville, Columbia, Elkridge, Ellicott City, Frederick, Fulton, Gaithersburg, Germantown, Green Valley, Highland, Hunt Valley, Hyattsville, Kensington, Laurel, Lutherville, Montgomery Village, North Laurel, Olney, Owings Mills, Potomac, Rockville, Silver Spring, Takoma Park, Timonium, Towson, Wheaton, Woodstock, Washington, D.C., Northern Virginia, and all surrounding areas.

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