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Getting A New Roof? Consider These 4 Things

You know it's time for a new roof when ...

I am sure we could make a game of naming all the things that could go wrong that would cause you to have to get a new roof. But age and significant damage are the biggest culprits homeowners face. And since it's a more expensive home repair, it should be done with due diligence.

Finding a roofing contractor is an excellent start when getting a new roof. But it's also essential to be prepared for all the decisions you will make when installing a new roof. Your contractor will be your roofing guide, but ultimately it will come down to your decision.

Whether you are building a new home or choosing a new roof for your existing home, there are several things to consider to make your experience just a little bit easier. Aesthetics and curb appeal matter, but remember, your roof protects your home and everything in it. Product costs, material weight, and installation should all influence your decisions.

Here are our top 3 things to consider when getting a new roof:

Consideration #1 - Learn the Basic Roofing Terminology

First, roofers talk use squares as their basic unit of measurement.

1 square = 100 square feet in area (the equivalent of a 10-foot by 10-foot square)

Example: A 2000-square foot home with a gable roof will consist of less than 1,500 square feet of the roofing area or about 15 squares.

Next, here are the five most essential terms you should know as a homeowner.

1.Rafters are the wooden beams that create the roof itself (the roof's foundation).

2.Deck/Sheathing is added after the rafters. It's placed along the home's attic, concealing the rafters. The deck/sheathing gives your roof strength.

3.Underlayment is a thin waterproof, insulating layer on the deck/sheathing for shock absorption, water resistance, and extra protection.

4.Flashing is metal strips installed at the angles and intersections of your roof to prevent water from entering into vulnerable spots.

5.Roofing Shingles are flat, rectangular pieces of asphalt, composite, or other roofing material. Shingles are what you see on your roof. They protect from the elements.

Consideration #2 - Determine Your Budget for a New Roof

The budget for your new roof is essential. A wide range of materials is available for your new roof. But materials aren't the only thing to consider. Your current roof and structure will also play a role in the overall cost of a new roof.

Material Costs

Materials and the size of your roof will be a big factor. Prices can begin at $50/square for budget materials and rise to nearly $800/square for more high-end materials.

The Condition Of Your Current Roof

Are you remodeling your home? Does the supporting structure need repairs? Do old materials need to be stripped off? Does your house have multiple chimneys, intersecting rooflines, turrets, or skylights? All of these elements will add to the cost of your new roof.

Consideration #3 - How to Choose the Right Roofing Material

Choosing your roofing material can be fun. It's where you can decide the aesthetic you want your home to offer while providing the protection it needs.

But not all roofs can have any roofing material. For example, a flat or low-slope roof may need a different material than a roof with a steeper pitch. In addition, roofing materials like tile or slate are heavy, so to use these materials, your home has to have an adequate structure to carry the load. That's why it's vital to pick material that works with your current home's structure, or if you are building a new home, to build the structure that can support the roof material you want.

Next, when choosing a roofing material, is the history of your home. Does your home have a traditional style? You may want to stick to that home's style to maintain its history. Traditional homes often use wood shakes, slates, or masonry tiles, while contemporary homes may be better off with metal roofing systems.

Weather endurance and energy efficiency are important factors when picking your roofing material. Some materials last longer or even react better to the elements and climate in your area.

And lastly, you will want to pick a roofing material that fits your budget for long-term maintenance. All roofs require maintenance; some materials cost more than others. So choose a material that suits your long-term budget.

Now to the fun part, find the roofing material that is right for you.

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are the most common and cost-effective roofing material used. The life span is around 20-25 years. These shingles are made of a fiberglass medium infused with asphalt and given a sand-like granules surface.

Wood

Wood used to be the most common material used for roofing. But, some local fire codes forbid the use of it now. The life span is around 25 years and can be twice the cost of asphalt shingles. Usually made of cedar, redwood, or southern pine, shingles are sawn or split. Wood roofs are a great option where the climate has heavy winds or frequent storms because the shingles and shakes are resistant to the wind and the impact of hail and ice.

Metal

Metal is a durable and lightweight choice for a new roof. Metal roofs can be more expensive than asphalt roofs but have a life span of 40 to 70 years. A metal roof is an excellent option if you live in a high-wind zone, a place with lots of snow or rainfall, or a region threatened by hurricanes or tornadoes.

Cement/Concrete Tiles

Cement/Concrete tiles are the least expensive of tile roofting options. However, while they are a very durable option, they are not quite as durable as other tile options, such as clay tiles. And while concrete roofing tiles can last up to 50 years, the underlayment only lasts about 20 years. As a result, replacing the underlayment involves removing the concrete tiles, replacing the underlayment, and then reinstalling the tiles — a tedious, time-consuming, and costly project. And something to factor in when considering it for your roofing material.

Clay Tiles

Clay tiles are one of the oldest roofing materials used "dating back to Ancient China." They are heavy and quite durable, with a lifespan of about 100 years. They are popular in Spanish colonial or mission-style homes. They stand up to heat and sun well and are resistant to corrosion or salt air, making them an excellent choice for coastal regions.

Slate

Slate roofs are built to last. They are high quality and among the most durable and expensive roofing materials. A hard slate, such as a purple or grayish-black Buckingham slate, can last 150 to 200 years. But softer slates have a life span of 75 to 90 years. In addition, slate roofs are non-combustible, meaning it protects your home in the event of a fire. It's also resistant to temperature fluctuations and severe weather. And a big bonus, slate roofs are not affected by fungus and mold.

Consideration #4 - The Installation Process

Now that you have chosen your roofing material, you can talk to your contractor about the installation process. The roofing contractor will walk you through the process, including what you need to do to your property to protect it during installation. Ask your contractor about the time frame for installing the roof. Materials and size of the roof factor again into how long the installation will take.

Asphalt Shingles: 1 to 3 days

Wooden Shingles: 6 to 8 days

Slate Tiles: 6 to 7 days

Concrete Tiles: 8 to 9 days

Metal: 4 to 5 days

Do you need a new roof in the Kansas City metro? That's where Accent Roofing Group comes in.

At Accent Roofing Group, we have provided high-quality roofing services to homeowners in Kansas City, Overland Park, Prairie Village, Mission, Olathe, Lenexa, Leawood, Gardner, Bonner Springs, Spring Hill, Stillwell, Shawnee, Merriam, Raytown, Raymore, and Lee's Summit.

We are licensed, bonded, and insured with an A+ rating with Better Business Bureau (BBB). When you work with us, you will never have to worry about your roof again.

Don't worry… we've got you covered.

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The Best Tips for Roof Maintenance in the Summer

August 17, 2022

Summer in Kansas City is hot and humid, and the weather fluctuations can do more damage to your roof than you might think. Your roof is one of the most critical components of your home, but it's also one that gets neglected until problems arise. That's why summer is an essential time for roof maintenance. Ensure your roof is operating efficiently. Take a short break from your summer activities and follow our roof maintenance tips. Tip 1: Be Mindful During Rainstorms. Perform a Roof Inspection. Kansas City might go through weeks of no rain, but when that rain does hit, make it a habit of watching for leaks in your home. Summer rainstorms are the perfect time to check for weak spots that allow water to drip through your roof. Check your attic, ceilings, and walls for wet or discolored areas. You can also perform a roof inspection on your roof. A DIY roof inspection should be done using proper gear. Make sure you wear shoes that grip, gloves (because it could be hot), and any other protective clothing you might need. Always have someone hold the ladder you climb, and never climb up on the roof when you are home by yourself. And if you are like many homeowners who don't want to do a DIY roof inspection, call your local roofing contractor to come and inspect your roof and follow up with the needed roof maintenance work. A roof inspection and maintenance will check the following: Check the Eaves for Debris & Nests Once on the roof, you will look under the eaves for debris- such as leaves, sticks, or nests. If you find any debris, clean it up. Be careful of insects and birds as they like to nest in open areas in your eaves. Rodents, insects, and birds' nests can cause many roof problems. For example, bird droppings are acidic and damage shingles over time. In addition, roof rats, squirrels, or raccoons can burrow through your roof and chew through your electrical insulation. And bats can squeeze into the tiniest openings and roost in your attic. When you spot an open space in your eaves, repair them quickly. Check for Shingle Damage Check for loose, torn, dented, or missing shingles. Shingles are exposed to various elements daily and can become worn down or torn off over time. Damaged shingles make your home's interior vulnerable to water seepage and rot. If you find any damaged shingles, call a local roofing contractor for a bid on your next steps for roof repair or replacement . Check the Roof's Flashing Check the roof's flashing. The flashing is the thin material that directs water flow away from critical areas. They are installed to surround vents, chimneys, and skylights. If the flashing is loose, it can cause water leaks when not replaced. If you find cracked or loose flashing, it's essential to replace or repair them right away. Loose flashing can be screwed back onto the framing to resecure it to your roof. Small holes or cracks can be repaired by cutting some flashing larger than the hole or crack and securing it with roof cement. Note: We recommend contacting a roofing expert for roof repair services. Check Your Vents Good ventilation guarantees the balance of air circulating in the house. And it prevents roof materials from reaching high temperatures. So, check your vents. You can do this by checking your utility bill for any increase not related to seasonal changes. A steady increase could mean you have issues with your ventilation system. You will also want to visit your roof and attic to check the vents and metal stripping. Replace any damaged metal stripping to prevent leaks. And it can improve roof ventilation! Check Your Skylight Not all homes have skylights, but if your home has them, they should be checked from the roof several times during the summer. A hail storm could damage the glass or even leave a crack that you can't see from inside the home. You will also want to check the metal stripping around it to ensure it's not leaking. If you see cracks or damaged glass on the skylight, call your local roofing contractor to replace it. And in the meantime, it might be worth covering with a tarp until repaired or replaced. Tip 2: Clean the Gutters No matter what season, gutters should be inspected and cleaned. Gutters and drains direct water away from your home. If they are clogged with leaves and other debris, the excess water may be left sitting on your roof. And that stagnant water will eventually soak through your roof and into your ceiling and walls, putting your home at risk of water damage and mold. Structural damage is something that no homeowner wants to deal with, so take the time to check your gutters before the next big storm. First, check the gutters and drains around your house, and realign and tighten all the bolts. Then, clean out the gutters, drains, and downspouts. On the next rain, check to see that everything is flowing correctly. Or, you can run a hose through the gutter system to check for correct flow. Tip 3: Trim Troublesome Trees You may have trimmed your trees in the spring or fall, but don't stop in the summer. Look at your landscape and check for branches leaning on your roof or within 6 feet of your roof. Tree branches can scratch and gouge your roofing materials or, worse, fall on your home. Trim any troublesome tree branches that are getting too close. Tip 4: Be Aware of Mold, Moss, or Algae Guess what thrives in Kansas City's humid summer days? Mold, moss, and algae. Inspect your home's interior and exterior. When temperatures and humidity increase, mold can spread faster. Check walls, ceilings, and the attic for mold. Look for any discoloration like large black or white spots or off-colored wood. And on your roof, you might find moss or algae. Moss and algae can lead to roof decay. Regular roof checks in the summer can help prevent the accumulation of these microorganisms. If you see any signs of moss or algae on your roof, you will want to treat it as soon as possible. While using a power washer might seem great, the wrong tip or spraying too close can clean off the granules which protect your shingles from the sun. A better option would be to spray eco-friendly cleaning compounds. Or have copper or zinc strips installed on your roof as a natural prevention. Ask For Help From Roofing Professionals Roof maintenance is not a fun summer activity, but it is essential to avoid roof-related issues in the future. Hiring roofing professionals to perform regular maintenance can prevent problems from developing, too. Are you looking for roofing maintenance in the Kansas City metro area? That's where we come in. At Accent Roofing Group , we have provided high-quality roofing services to homeowners in Kansas City, Overland Park, Prairie Village, Mission, Olathe, Lenexa, Leawood, Gardner, Raytown, Raymore, Bonner Springs, Spring Hill, and Lee's Summit. We are licensed, bonded, and insured with an A+ rating with Better Business Bureau (BBB). When you work with us , you will never have to worry about your roof again. Don’t worry…we’ve got you covered.

How to Know If Your Roofing Contractor Did a Bad Job

July 22, 2022

Homeowners are in charge of the repairs and maintenance of their homes. Some maintenance and repair projects are minor, some are special DIY projects, and others require professional input. Roof replacements and installations are one type of home repair that requires some professional experience. Unfortunately, not all roofing professionals provide quality work. Sometimes, roofing contractors incorrectly install roofing systems, which can lead to many problems. Asphalt shingle roofs have a lifespan of 15-30 years. If you had a roof installed and a year or two later are already having problems, you might want to consider that your roofing contractor did a bad job. A new roof might look perfect at first, but the imperfections from a poorly installed roof will begin to show after a year or so. Here are common signs of a bad roofing job to look for to safeguard your investment. 7 Signs of a Bad Roofing Job Your Roof Doesn't Look Uniform. Your Roof Has Damaged or Missing Shingles. Your Roof Has the Wrong Nails, or the Roofing Contractor Used an Improper Nailing Technique. Your Roofer Didn't Check the Roof Decking Before Installing the New Roof. Your Roof is Missing Important Roofing Components. Your Roof's Layers Were Completed in the Wrong Order. Your Roof is Already Leaking. Learn more about each sign of a bad roofing job below. 1. Your Roof Doesn't Look Uniform. A new roof installation or roof replacement should have your roof looking fantastic, and it should all look the same. You don't even need to get on your roof to check this. You can look at each side of your roof from the ground to ensure it all looks the same. If one side looks different, you had a bad roofing job. A roof that is not uniform might have sagging rooflines, mismatched shingles, or reused flashing. Therefore, checking for uniformity after a roof installation or replacement is essential to catching mistakes that must be fixed. What's a Sagging Roofline Look Like? Sagging rooflines will curve or dip. However, a properly installed roofline will always be completely straight and even in appearance. If you notice your roofline is sagging, it could mean you have issues with framing or roof deck rot. Why are Mismatched Shingles Bad? Mismatched shingles are typically different in color. Mismatched shingles are bad because it typically means that your roofer ran out of your preferred material and just used what they had instead of ordering more. Don't be afraid to speak up and tell them you noticed and want that changed! Don't Reuse Flashing. Flashing is the thin piece of sheet metal installed on your roof that prevents water leaks into your home. Expert roofing contractors know that the nails installed in your new roof won't always go through the old holes in the reused flashing. So the only way to ensure you won't have leaks is to replace old flashing with new flashing. Besides, a new roof should mean all new materials. So don't let a bad roofing contractor skimp on costs. Your Old Vents Weren't Replaced with New Vents. Roof vents help your home breathe. Breathing, also known as circulation, helps prevent moisture from collecting, which, if it accumulates, can result in mold or rot. When you have your roof replaced, don't use old roof vents because, just like your flashing, the nails in the roof vents might not line up with the old holes, which can lead to leaks. 2. Your Roof Has Damaged or Missing Shingles. Time and weather can cause shingles to go missing or be damaged. A few lost or damaged shingles do not indicate that you need a new roof, especially if you had it replaced within a few years. Damaged or missing shingles come with time and general wear and tear and should not be present following a roofing job. If, after a minor storm , you already have missing or damaged shingles and your neighbor's roof did not, you likely had a bad roofing job. 3. Your Roof Has the Wrong Nails, or the Roofing Contractor Used an Improper Nailing Technique. Nails are just as important as all other roofing components. The wrong nails could lead to your roof leaking. Depending on the roofing material, your nails will differ in type, grade, and size. And just as important is the nail technique, which is how the nail is driven into the roofing material. An over-driven nail will cut into the shingle, which increases the risk of leaks. An under-driven nail won't penetrate through to the deck, increasing the risk of leaks or even missing shingles. And a nail that is driven crooked will increase the chances of damaged shingles or leaks. Bottom line: the wrong nail or the wrong technique could result in your roof le aking. 4. Your Roofer Didn't Check the Roof Decking Before Installing the New Roof. The roof decking is your roof's foundation; if it's damaged, you can guarantee that you have a roof leak. Every component of a roof is attached to your roof deck. Time and weather, like all things, can eventually compromise the decking. An experienced roofer will check the integrity of the decking and make necessary repairs before installing your new roof. 5. Your Roof is Missing Important Roofing Components. Your roof is more than shingles and nails. The proper hardware works together to ensure a healthy, uniform, leak-proof roof. Roofing components impact the integrity of your roof. Whether the roofing contractor uses the wrong materials or doesn't use them will lead to a premature aging roof or could cause other structural problems. A Missing Drip Edge A drip edge is the metal sheeting installed on your roof to protect the board beneath it. Drip edges keep the water moving in the right direction. A good roofing contractor will install a drip edge between the shingles and the underlayment to ensure your home's structural support stays intact and prevents water leaks. A bad roofing contractor won't install a drip edge. A missing drip edge makes your roof susceptible to mold, flooding, stains, and soil erosion on your foundation. A Missing Underlayment A roofing underlayment is a felt-like material installed below your shingles and above your roof decking. The underlayment helps create waterproofing for your roof system. In addition, it ensures that your shingles work efficiently and keep your home water-free. A missing underlayment makes your roof deteriorate faster, and you will have to replace it before the average lifespan is up. Missing Starter Strips A roof replacement should always be done with an underlying starter layer of adhesive strips. Without starter strips, you have to install shingles directly to the frame, leaving your roof susceptible to wind and other elements. Shingles could blow off just a few months or years into the roof's lifespan without starter strips. 6. Your Roof's Layers Were Completed in the Wrong Order. As you see, your roof is more than just shingles. This is because so many components go into your roofing system. Of course, each part is essential, but what's also important is the order each layer is added. Every roofing contractor expert knows the order of each layer necessary for a successful roof installation. To add one layer out of order could compromise your entire roof and the overall protection it's supposed to provide. 7. Your Roof is Already Leaking. Water leaks in your home are never good. Over time they can hurt the structure of your home. For example, water leaks can cause your roof deck to rot, leading to dangerous breakages or collapses. An easy way to check if you have water leaks is to check for stains on your roof. Stains are dark in color and can be spotted on your roof or attic. Multiple stains across your roof likely mean you need to install a brand-new roof. Even if you have had a new roof installed and it looks great, it's important to do periodic roof checks to ensure it was correctly installed and has no leaks. Avoid A Bad Roofing Job & Hire an Expert Roofing Contractor Finding a roofing contractor expert in your area is crucial to ensuring your investment stays an investment and not a catastrophe. Accent Roofing Group is your local expert roofing contractor who has provided high-quality roofing services to homeowners in Kansas City since 2015. We work in all neighborhoods throughout the metro like Overland Park, Prairie Village, Mission, Olathe, Lenexa, Leawood, Gardner, Raytown, Raymore, Blue Springs, Liberty, and Lee's Summit. We are licensed, bonded, and insured with an A+ rating with Better Business Bureau (BBB). When you work with us , you will never have to worry about your roof again.

6 Things to Look at When Hiring a Roofing Contractor

July 22, 2022

Every homeowner needs a good roof over their head. Which sometimes means hiring a roofing contractor for repairs or even a roof replacement . With so many contractors on the market, it can be hard to know whom to trust. There are two kinds of roofing contractors- licensed roofers and unlicensed. Licensed roofers will maintain a good line of communication throughout every step of the project and will deliver the best results. Unlicensed roofers will offer too-good-to-be-true proposals with low prices and a quick timeline. While hiring the least inexpensive contractor is tempting, it's essential to research any roofing contractor to ensure you get quality work that lasts. Are you in need of a roofing contractor? Finding a reputable roofer can be the difference between paying for a job well done or paying extra later for maintenance work because of a poorly done job. To help you save time and money, here are six things to consider when hiring a roofing contractor to save time and money. #1 - Use a Local Roofing Company A local roofing company knows the local installation codes and everything else to ensure your roof is installed correctly and in compliance with your state's requirements. Avoid door-to-door sales pitches when hiring a roofing contractor. Unfortunately, many non-local roofers or door-to-door sales pitches are storm chasers. They are not licensed or insured in your state. Accent Roofing Group is Kansas City-based company servicing surrounding suburbs like Overland Park, Prairie Village, Mission, Olathe, Lenexa, Leawood, Gardner, Raytown, Raymore, and Lee's Summit. #2 - Check that the Roofing Company is Licensed, Bonded, & Insured A roofing company should be licensed and insured in your state. If they are bonded, that is a bonus. Being licensed and bonded certifies that a company knows what they are doing. And it verifies that they are legally allowed to practice roofing in that state. Never hire roofing contractors that don't have proper licensing and insurance because if something goes wrong, you have zero recourse. Accent Roofing Group is fully licensed, bonded, and insured. What does each term mean? Licensed A roofing contractor with a license knows the latest and best practices for roof installation, repair, and maintenance, including all relevant permitting rules. In addition, they will follow all codes and ordinances for your state. Finally, a licensed contractor means they will get the work on your roof done right the first time. Bonded Bonded is like insurance against incomplete work. Bonding protects you, the homeowner. Being bonded means a bonding company backs your company, saying they know you do business correctly and ethically. In addition, the bond ensures the homeowner some protection in their investment if a company goes out of business during the middle of a job or there is a problem with the work, and it's not fixed. Insured Ensure your contractor has property protection insurance, general business liability, and worker's compensation coverage with clearly stated limits and minimum coverages. Insurance covers all legal bases if an accident, damage, or dispute occurs. #3 - Ask What their Workmanship Warranty Is Not all roofing companies will provide their warranty information to you. But a reputable company will. When researching and talking with roofing companies, ask what their workmanship warranty is on roof repairs and replacements. Protect your investment and ensure you are getting quality roofing services. At Accent Roofing Group, we provide a five-year workmanship warranty. Your satisfaction matters to us. #4 - Find Out What Materials the Roofing Contractor Uses When choosing a roofer, be wary of contractors who give low quotes as it could mean they are using low-grade materials. Using low-grade roofing materials could eventually lead to more significant and costly issues, from minor leaks to the entire roofing system collapsing. Note: Price should not be the only thing you look at when hiring a roofing contractor. Often, if one company is significantly cheaper than others, there is a reason. For example, the company may not be licensed, the workers may not be insured, or the materials may be of lower quality. Accent Roofing Group uses reliable TAMKO and GAF construction materials. #5 - Ask for References Never hire roofing contractors that can't provide references. A reputable roofing contractor should have online reviews visible to the public. But don't just look at the number of reviews; look at how recent they are. It's good to base your research on reviews within the last year to ensure you get an accurate reference of completed work. When reading reviews from the last year, remember that people tend to go super positive or negative. When a roofing company stands behind its work, interacts positively with customers, and does things the right way, it will show in their reviews. Accent Roofing Group has a 4.7 rating on Google My Business from client reviews and an A+ rating on Better Business Bureau (BBB). #6 - Consider Experience Levels Experience speaks. The more experience a roofing company has, the better results you could get. A seasoned contractor will provide access to their first-hand knowledge of how your roof system will perform and what needs to be fixed. At Accent Roofing Group , we have over 25 years of experience. Even though we have only been a company for seven years, we are built and work on the pillars of honesty, integrity, and reliability. #7 - Get Your Contract in Print Always, always, always get a contract for a roofing job (or any home improvement project) in print! Your agreement should have details on payment terms and details of what the work is. Most contractors only require a 10% deposit to start work. You should run away from any company wanting full payment before work is complete. At Accent Roofing Group, our trusted process will set your minds at ease for a roofing job well done. Once your appointment is set, we will do a thorough inspection and discuss your property and project goals. We will then discuss options with you. Finally, a contract will be presented based on the discussed action plan, cost, and timeline. And then work can begin. Avoid A Bad Roofing Job Since 2015, the team at Accent Roofing Group has provided high-quality roofing services to homeowners in Kansas City, Overland Park, Prairie Village, Mission, Olathe, Lenexa, Leawood, Gardner, Raytown, Raymore, and Lee's Summit. We are licensed, bonded, and insured with an A+ rating with Better Business Bureau (BBB). When you work with us , you will never have to worry about your roof again.