Pitched Roofs vs. Flat Roofs: Which is Better?
Whether you’re constructing new property or planning an extension to an existing building, you have two basic choices to choose from: flat or pitched. Before heading down to your local roofing supply company in Atlanta, you should know the differences, advantages, and limitations between the two designs.
Flat Roofs
Firstly, it’s critical that you understand a flat roof is not 100% level. All roofs are constructed with a pitch of some degree to drain rainfall down and away from a property. So, a flat roof generally has a 3-in-12 pitch—meaning that the roof rises 3 inches for every 12 inches of horizontal run—or less.
Over recent years, flat roofs have become more popular for commercial properties. Due to their compact designs, flat roofs are ideal for smaller structures and extension projects; however, this doesn’t make them unsuitable for larger, more residential estates.
Advantages
If you’re working with a tight budget or want to save money, then a flat roof is the better option. Due to their simpler frames, flat roofs require fewer roofing supplies and demand less construction and labor costs than a pitched alternative. Furthermore, they boast a shorter turnaround time for installation, which makes them appealing for business construction.
With their nearly level design, flat roofs provide an ideal surface for an eco-friendly green roof. However, this depends on the construction of the roof and your property in general. If you can maintain a green roof on your property, they offer many benefits for drainage and general efficiency for roofs of any size.
Disadvantages
The primary disadvantages of flat roofing are related to maintenance and drainage. Flat roofs often require regular hands-on maintenance to perform at their peak potential for as long as possible. The drainage of flat roofs is often less efficient when compared to that of pitched roofs, so owners who live in areas prone to rainfall and snow should think twice.
Pitched Roofs
Formed from two or more slopes that rise in the center to create a peak, pitched roofs are considered by many people the more traditional design of the two. Because of this, you’ll find them more often in residential than commercial areas.
Advantages
As a more residential roofing design, pitched roofs are popular between homeowners for a variety of reasons. Versatility and space are two of them. While flat roofs are constructed to accommodate foot traffic above, pitched roofs are erected in ways to create extra living space below. Attic bedrooms, storage space, offices and more can be designed to fit well under a pitched roof.
Pitched roofs often have more longevity and require less maintenance than flat roofs, leading many home and business owners to choose it for their properties. The materials used are generally more durable; though, with recent advancements, this disparity is shrinking. Due to their steep-slope design, pitched roofs are also better-equipped for high rainfall areas.
Disadvantages
The main drawback of pitched roofs is the initial cost of installation. Because they have a more complex design than flat roofs, pitched roofing requires increased labor and time and additional materials. However, in exchange for the higher initial cost, you receive a roof that has a longer lifespan, a more efficient drainage system, and a more traditional appeal.
How to Clean Algae Stains off Asphalt Shingle Roofs
Algae stains are often mistaken for mold or dirt on 3-tab asphalt shingles in Atlanta. Although some of these dark streaks on the shingles may be dirt or mildew, algae is a more common explanation, because the spores are airborne and grow easily on the shingles, especially in humid areas. While algae stains don't harm the shingles themselves, if you want to get rid of the unsightly stains, here are a few tips.
Cleaning
You can clean your roof using either a store bought solution that's specially made for removing algae stains, or you can use a solution of soap and water. The results will be even better using oxygen bleach. Chlorine bleach has the best results, but you'll have to be very careful to protect any surrounding vegetation when rinsing the solution off. If your roof is under warranty, carefully read the paperwork to be sure you don't use anything that would void the warranty, such as a power washer. The easiest way to apply the solution to the roof is with a pump sprayer. Spray the roof in about 4 foot sections starting at the top of the roof, allow the solution to sit for about 15 minutes, and rinse with a hose. You may use a scrub brush if necessary. It's best to clean the roof on an overcast day so that the cleaning solution doesn't evaporate as quickly.
Special Shingles
Although cleaning does effectively remove the stains, they will end up returning because of the humidity that Atlanta asphalt shingles are exposed to. So if these stains really bother you and you're thinking of replacing your roof anyway, you may want to consider special algae resistant shingles. These are basically made by mixing copper granules into roofing products to limit or prevent algae growth. If replacing the roof isn't an option, you can install a strip of copper just below the ridge of the roof or special zinc strips made for algae prevention.
Reasons Why You Shouldn't Delay Roof Repairs
Roof repair is inconvenient and often costly. It’s why so many homeowners put off making small repairs such as replacing broken shingles, repairing damaged flashing, and fixing holes. However, allowing a damaged roof to exist without getting the proper repairs needed is never a good idea. It puts you on the hook for added repair costs due to water damage and mold growth. It also makes your home look shabby. Check out these 5 reasons why you should never delay roof repair:
- Mold Growth: A leaky roof is the perfect breeding ground for mold growth. When mold forms,m it creates health hazards and gets expensive to remove.
- Energy Costs: Holes in your roof mean higher heating and cooling bills. Your heating and cooling costs will, literally, go through the roof.
- Premature Replacement: The longer you put off getting roof repairs, the weaker your roof becomes. It’s more susceptible to the elements and might need to be replaced earlier than normal.
- Structural Issues: Your roof provides structure for the house. When repairs aren’t done in a timely manner, it puts other parts of the home at risk of needing repairs.
- Expensive Repair: Not taking care of small roof repairs now means higher costs later. Yes, roof repair is inconvenient, but so is shelling out more money than you needed to.
Finding affordable and convenient roof repair is always in your best interest. At Preferred Roofing Supply, we aim to deliver exceptional roof repair in Atlanta and surrounding areas. Our goal is to make sure that our customers get fast roofing service at exceptional prices, so you’re never inconvenienced or hit with a big bill. As Atlanta’s top roofing service, we work on all types and sizes of roofs. We offer the highest quality materials from today’s leading roofing supply manufacturers. From small homes to sprawling estates, our team of qualified roofers is ready to fix that leaky roof today. Call us at (678) 395-6880 to schedule an inspection.
Facts You Should Know about Roofing Nails
For many homeowners, nails are just nails. There’s not of technology that goes into most nails, as they have largely been unchanged for centuries. Nails represent a rudimentary type of fastener in most cases, and for the average homeowner, there’s not a lot of mystery involved in the humble nail. However, when it comes to roofing, nail selection isn’t as simple as you may think. In fact, the types of nails for shingles that you use can mean the difference between a solid roof that will last for decades and one that is destined for premature failure. Choosing the right roofing nails in Lawrenceville, GA, can be tricky if you don’t know what qualities are important.
Before you can determine which nails, you should use on your roof, you need a basic working knowledge of roofing nails in general. Some types of nails perform better with roofing shingles than others, so it’s important to put some thought and research into selecting the best roofing nail for your roof type. Keep reading below to learn everything you need to know about nails for roofing.
Nail Materials
Because there are more roofing materials on the market than ever before, there must be a diversity of nails to meet the needs of the various types of roofing. For example, a standard galvanized flat-head roofing nail may be appropriate for 3-tab asphalt shingle roofing. But for slate or tile roofing that may last a century, you need nails that can weather the elements that are made of stainless steel. You also must consider environmental factors when selecting the right roofing nails. Aluminum roofing nails are helpful in reducing the overall weight of your roof, but they can quickly corrode and fail if used near saltwater or other chemicals.
Nail Shapes
Again, the type of nail you require is determined by the type of roofing material you plan to use. Nail shape is an important selection criterion because certain nail shapes are adapted specifically for some roofing materials and are inappropriate for others. For example, screw shank nails are twisted nails with diamond-shaped tips that allow them to penetrate and hold in wood roofing. They are especially effective in areas that receive frequent severe weather as they can help a roof withstand high winds better than other types of nails. The ring-shank nail features a head that is larger than the standard nail head. They, too, feature enhanced wind resistance when used with asphalt shingles, but they’re not ideal for use with wood shingles because the point doesn’t penetrate as well. If cost is a concern and you’re simply installing a traditional 3-tab asphalt roof with no frills, smooth-shank nails will do the job and save you money in the process. The trade-off is that these simple nails, made from galvanized steel, aluminum, or stainless steel, don’t offer the strength of other types of roofing nails, however.
Nail Sizes
You may think that any size of the nail can be used to affix roofing. However, there are some specific standards applied to the length of roofing nails that can help ensure that they are long enough without being too long. Roofing nails can vary in shank length from one to six inches. As the length of the nail increases, so too does its shank diameter or gauge. The longer the nail, the bigger the gauge. The length of the nail needed depends on the roofing material used and the thickness of the wooden roof decking beneath it. For 3-tab asphalt shingles, fiberglass shingles, and architectural shingles applied over standard thickness decking, nails ranging from one to two inches are fine. Wood shingles, however, will require nails from three to six inches in length since wood shingles are much thicker than their asphalt or fiberglass counterparts.
Before you head to your local provider of roofing supply in Lawrenceville, GA, make sure you understand the differences in nails and how to determine what kind is appropriate for your next roofing project. To learn more facts about roofing nails, contact Preferred Roofing at (678) 395-6880.
Best Roofing Shingles for Warm Climates
In regions where the temperatures get hot, roofs take a lot of punishment. It’s not just the heat alone that roofs must tolerate, but also the effects of ultraviolet rays. It takes rugged materials to handle such harsh treatment. Another concern is how your roofing material contributes to heating up your house. The type of roofing material you use makes a difference, which affects both your comfort and cooling costs. It’s important that you ask questions before replacing your roof. It will pay off if you know things like “are metal roofing materials in Stockbridge a good idea?” Here are a few of your choices for roofing materials.
Terracotta
Buildings with a Spanish or Mexican architectural style often have terracotta roofs. There are good reasons that terracotta has traditionally been used in warm regions. The lighter color of terracotta absorbs less heat than dark shingles, which keeps homes and commercial buildings cooler in the midst of summer. Terracotta is also resistant to fading, so it will still look attractive years after being installed. Terracotta tiles are also non-combustible.
Slate
There's a growing popularity with natural materials, and slate fits that description perfectly. Slate is real stone. It’s the ideal material that’s both waterproof and fireproof, meaning it won’t allow water to soak in and it can’t burn. If you’re looking to invest for the long run, slate is a great choice as a roofing material. It’s one of the most durable materials used for roofs, sometimes reaching the century mark in service life.
Reflective Metal
If your primary objective is to keep your home cooler, reflective metal roofing may be your best choice. As the name suggests, metal roofing reflects heat instead of absorbing it. Metal cools in the evening when the sun goes down. This cooling effect saves on energy costs for the homeowner. Metal roofing is practically maintenance free, long lasting, non-combustible, and recyclable. Contractors offering metal roofing in Stockbridge can offer advice on the benefits of this type of roofing.
Concrete Tiles
As you might guess, these roofing tiles are made from cement. To give them extra durability, the tiles go through a heat-treatment process. Concrete tiles are resistant to damage from heat, ultraviolet rays, and even hail. Concrete, of course, is also non-combustible. These tiles are very low-maintenance, requiring little in terms of repair once they are set. Concrete can be formed to many shapes and textures, giving consumers a lot of choices in styles.
Solar Shingles
The roofing materials described so far have been touted for reflecting light and heat. These shingles do just the opposite, and that’s the benefit of using them. Also known as photovoltaic shingles, solar shingles look like traditional shingles but have the capability to absorb sunlight and convert it into electricity. People who want to harness the power of the sun without installing large solar panels on their house are taking a look at these types of shingles.
Many Choices in Roofing Materials
When replacing a roof, you’ll want to consider many factors, including heat reflection, durability, and aesthetics. To see your options, you might consider visiting a supplier of discount building materials in Stockbridge. After all, the best roof shingles in Stockbridge are the ones that serve your needs.
6 Facts about Asphalt Shingles You Didn't Know
Your roof is an important part of your home that can easily be overlooked. It is a shelter that keeps you dry, warm, and safe. Maintaining your roof can increase the value of your home and prevent expensive damage. Asphalt shingles are one of the most popular kinds of roofing material and are relatively inexpensive and easy to install. Despite their popularity, there are many things about asphalt shingles many people don’t know. These facts will help you pick out the perfect asphalt shingle in Atlanta.
Waterproof
The reason these types of shingles are called asphalt shingles is because the asphalt seals and waterproofs the roof when activated. Asphalt shingles are effective for both the walls and roof of your house.
History
Asphalt shingles were invented in the United States and first used around 1900. They quickly grew in popularity and replaced the then-common wood shingles. They have changed a lot in makeup and look over the years.
Different Types
The two main types of asphalt shingles are organic and fiberglass. Fiberglass shingles have multiple layers consisting of a bottom layer of a fiberglass mat, a second layer of asphalt, and then a top layer of ceramic bits. Organic shingles are made from recycled felt paper that is soaked in asphalt. Most people use fiberglass since they are easier to make, cheaper, and last longer.
Different Designs
The two options you can choose from are dimensional shingles, also known as architectural or laminate shingles, and 3-tab. Dimensional shingles are thicker and therefore last longer, but are also more expensive. 3-tab are flat and come in a consistent shape and size.
Sealed by Heat
Though asphalt shingles don’t seal immediately after being nailed down in place, they quickly seal by heat from the sun. The duration it takes for the asphalt to activate and seal together depends on the climate, roof slope, and the direction of the roof compared to the sun.
Attributes
Asphalt shingles come in all shapes and sizes, but most have certain qualities that make them a great choice for many homes. Shingles reflect sunlight, helping reduce the temperature inside the home. They can be wind, hail, fire, and algae resistant, keeping your home safe, and they are durable and last a long time, anywhere from 20 years to a lifetime, depending on quality.
If you are considering reroofing your home with asphalt shingles, contact a local roofing company for more information on the type of shingles best for your roof. No matter if you are looking for dimensional shingles, fiberglass, or 3-tab asphalt shingles in Atlanta, the experts can help with any questions you may have.
The Benefits of Investing in a Fire Escape Ladder
No one wants to consider the possibility of a devastating fire at their home or place of business. However, in most cases, an ounce of prevention and forethought can go a long way toward saving lives and mitigating the damage done by such fires. After all, property can be restored with relative ease, but life is a far more precious commodity.
Fortunately, there are many safety features such as fire alarms, sprinkler systems, and illuminated exit signage that has proven to increase chances of survival during a fire. As a result, they are widespread and common in the homes, offices, and businesses of the present era. Another tool that has proven especially helpful for saving lives in multi-floored structures is the humble fire escape ladder. Whether fixed to the building or deployed from storage in a moment of need, a fire escape ladder can be a tremendous lifesaving device in the event of a fire. Fire escape ladders can be purchased from an industrial ladder vendor or ladder supply company in Atlanta, GA. Keep reading to learn a few of the many benefits offered by fire escape ladders.
Customizable to the Need
Fire escape ladders are almost as diverse as the types of buildings upon which they are deployed. There are numerous styles that can be purchased depending on the need, the type of structure, and the expected load when deployed. Some fire escape ladders are steel staircases that are affixed to the outside of multi-story buildings. Common in multi-family dwellings and office buildings, they provide a quick, speedy exit to those who are on upper floors when a fire breaks out below. Those ladders can be custom fabricated to complement the design and size of the building. There are also ladders that roll up and stow away beneath windows that are designed for residential or business use in buildings that are three stories or less in height. They take up little space but offer an additional escape route if a fire breaks out.
Gives Safe Exit Options
One of the most dangerous aspects of a fire in a multi-story building is the potential for a fire on a lower floor to cut off avenues of escape for those stuck on upper floors when the blaze breaks out. It’s a terrifying proposition, but a realistic one, since heat and smoke could seal off the building’s usual paths of exit. Fire escapes provide a great option for escape since they are outside of the building, away from the confined heat and smoke. While the fire burns inside, the outside path on the fire escape remains open so that people on upper floors can escape.
If you live in or frequent a multi-story building, consider installing a fire escape ladder that is appropriate for the style, size, and use of your building. The cost of installing a fire escape ladder is fully justified when you consider the many benefits associated with them and their lifesaving potential. To learn more about the benefits of investing in a fire escape ladder, contact Preferred Roofing at (678) 395-6880.
Does Improper Nailing Affect the Roof Shingle Performance?
Roofing a house or commercial building is a big investment, so naturally you want the job done right. That’s why choosing quality roofing materials in Fairburn is important. But did you know that your selection of quality shingles could become meaningless if the nailing is done incorrectly? That’s right. Something seemingly simple like nailing could result in an inferior roofing job if done the wrong way. For this reason alone, it’s essential to hire experienced roofers who use best practices in doing their job. Here's why proper nailing is so important.
Roofing-Grade Nails
First of all, it’s important that you use the right kind of nail. You can’t simply use any nail off the hardware store shelf. To protect against the corrosive effects of weather, only galvanized nails should be used. In addition, roofing nails need to have a large head and heavy-duty shank to hold shingles securely.
Adequate Nail Length
You'll also need to consider the length of the nail you’re using. The nail should be long enough to go through the shingles, sheathing, and into the decking. Before choosing nails, you should consider how many layers of shingles are already on the roof and the thickness of the new shingles you’re installing. Professional roofing contractors can recommend the appropriate length for roofing nails in Fairburn.
Too Few Nails
Using too few nails can result in shingles separating from the roof or being vulnerable to strong winds. The temptation to use too few nails is often not the cost of the nails, but rather the effort it takes to do the work. Nailing is one of the more labor-intensive parts of the job, and some workers may be tempted to cut corners to reduce workload. It’s not a wise move to be stingy with the number of nails used. It can directly affect the lifespan of the roof.
Incorrect Nail Placement
Proper nail placement will secure the top shingle and the edge of the shingle directly below. The most common error is nailing too high on the top shingle, which often then misses the shingle underneath.
Nails Driven Too Far
When nails are driven in too deeply, they break through the mat of the shingles. When this happens, the integrity of the shingle to protect against rain is compromised. It also makes the shingles less secure and more susceptible to wind damage. With the use of pneumatic nailing guns, it’s easy to overdrive nails if the pressure is too high. Roofers need to monitor their work and adjust gun pressure if necessary.
Nails Driven at Angles
For the most secure hold, roofing nails need to be driven straight. Sloppy nailing can result in nails being driven at angles, causing less secure anchoring of shingles.
Staples
Some people may wonder if staples can be substituted for nails. Most roofing contractors now consider staples to be a less desirable choice for attaching shingles because staples have less holding power than nails. In fact, using staples to attach shingles is now prohibited by some jurisdictions.
Contractors Committed to Quality
It’s important to use a roofing contractor with the expertise to do the job right. The best roofing companies have quality control practices in place to monitor their work. Because a roof is your first shield of defense against the elements, a poor-quality job can lead to expensive water damage inside a building. That’s why you don’t want to compromise on the quality of your roofing.
Go with the Roofing Pros
When you’re ready to install a new roof, contact Preferred Roofing. They don’t miss a detail in doing the job with high professional standards, including using the right nails for shingles in Fairburn. They make no compromises because your satisfaction is their top concern.
Choosing the Right Roofing Nails for Your Next Project
Whether you're replacing or repairing your home's roof, it's important that you use nails made for roofing, rather than generic nails that are used on a variety of projects. There are many different types of nails for roofing, so here is some information to help you choose the right roofing nails in Atlanta.
Nail Material
Since Atlanta roofing supplies come in different materials, roofing nails must also be made of different material to best suit the type of roof you're working on. Tile or slate roofs will have more longevity when stainless steel nails are used. Aluminum nails are a good choice for shingles and metal roofs, but can be weakened if exposed to salt or chemicals. Galvanized steel roofing nails that are coated with zinc are more resistant to rust and an excellent choice for asphalt shingles.
Nail Size
The shanks of roofing nails are available in lengths from one inch clear up to six inches. Shorter nails are more standard and usually 1-2 inches. This length of nail is good for fiberglass or asphalt shingles. Wood shingles require a nail with a longer shank since wood shingles are much thicker than asphalt or fiberglass. Roofing nails also come in different gauges, so the longer the nail is, the thicker it will be as well.
Nail Shape
Along with differing nail sizes, roofing nails have slightly varying shapes that are best suited for different types of roofs. Screw shank nails are twisted and have sharp diamond-shaped tips. This allows the nail to fasten tightly into wood roofs. This makes the roof more durable in bad weather. Ring shank nails have a larger head than screw shank nails. They hold up well in strong winds because they are made of galvanized steel, but they are not the best choice for wood shingles because they are not as sharp. Smooth shank nails are a less expensive option because they are not as strong. They are made of copper, stainless steel, or aluminum.
The Checklist for Installing Asphalt Shingles
When it’s time to install three-tab asphalt shingles in Lawrenceville, it’s always a good idea to hire expert roofers. Keep in mind that the following information merely highlights the basic steps and is offered for informational purposes always. Before attempting any sort of roof repair, make sure that you’re comfortable working on the roof and that you consult with trained roofing contractors.
Safety Always Comes First
Whether you have a one-story home with a flat roof or a two-story home with steep pitches, all roofing projects present risks. That’s why it’s important that safety always comes first. Hiring professional roofers to install roofing shingles in Lawrenceville guarantees that the job is done safely. It also gives you peace of mind that the job is done according to local building codes.
Know How a Sloped Shingle Roof Works
Asphalt roofing in Lawrenceville, GA, relies on gravity to remove water, including snow melt, from the roof. In order for this process to work, all roof shingles must overlap. Installing shingles in a single line is incorrect. Make sure to arrange the shingles in an overlapping manner, so water runs off the roof successfully to prevent damage.
Prepare the Deck
Unless you’re putting a new roof on a brand-new home, you’ll be laying shingles over an existing roof deck. For proper installation, the roof deck must be free of damage. Any holes or gaps need to be repaired, and the roof deck must be secured to the roof trusses. Additionally, the roof deck should not be wet. When the deck is prepared correctly, the shingles go on well and you get a flat, smooth finish.
Start from the Bottom
Find the bottom-most layer to begin installing the asphalt shingles. This is the drip edge, which is installed at the eave. This area makes a great starting point for laying shingles because it’s at the lowest edge and prevents water damage during roof installation.
Install Ice Dam Protection
It’s important to have ice and water protection. You don’t want puddles from snow melt to damage your roof, right? Ice dam protection is a self-adhering membrane installed over the drip edge.
Add Underlayment for Extra Protection
Underlayment material is either asphalt-saturated felt or synthetic roof underlayment. Regardless of which one you choose, they both offer peace of mind that the roof is protected under the shingles. Not only does the underlayment provide extra weather protection, but it also meets Class A fire ratings.
Use the Right Nails
Nails are not universal. When nailing in asphalt shingles, make sure you use the correct nails for shingles in Lawrenceville. Choose nails that are made from corrosion-resistant stainless steel to ensure longevity.
It feels good to save money and complete a roofing job yourself. If it’s a minor repair such as replacing a couple of shingles, a do-it-yourself job isn’t a big deal. However, replacing a whole roof takes time. In Lawrenceville, asphalt shingle installation needs to be done quickly, especially when the temperatures soar. When you hire Preferred Roofing, the job gets done fast and correct the first time. Call today to schedule an estimate.