Pitch Hopper
Pitch Hopper Tool
Steep roofs can be challenging to work on without proper safety tools. Some tools can be hectic to use and carry around, causing fatigue and unproductive. On the other hand, tools like pitch hoppers can be very efficient for steep roofs. A pitch hopper provides a firm grip and helps you move around your roof easily. Learn more about a roof pitch hopper below.
Features of a pitch hopper
A pitch hopper has several features that make it a useful roofing tool. These features include:
- The pitch hopper has a foam pad that firmly grips the roof's surface to keep you safe when working on a steep roof.
- You can use a roof pitch hopper on roofs with different pitches. The tool works with a walking pitch and a 12-12 pitch. This tool is suitable for asphalt shingle roofs and cannot work on metal roofs.
- The tool is lightweight, meaning you can carry it and move around the roof easily.
- A roof pitch hopper has a unique wedge shape that provides two surfaces for different roof pitches. One surface is more suitable for steeper roof pitches while the other can be used for less steep ones.
- This tool is available in different colors, which you can select from depending on your taste.
- The pitch hopper can sustain a weight of around 3000lbs for a single hopper. This makes the tool efficient for large weights without risking your safety. However, you should combine the use of a pitch hopper with other safety tools like harnesses to enhance your safety.
Benefits of a roof pitch hopper
You can get various benefits from pitch hopper roofing. They include:
- The pitch hopper provides a comfortable working surface that helps you work effectively and deliver high-quality results.
- With a roof pitch hopper, you can work on steeper roofs without risking your safety.
- A pitch hopper is easy to carry around and use, unlike bulky roof ladders that might be cumbersome and require more than one person to carry.
- This tool can help you increase productivity because it reduces fatigue. You can work on several projects in a day and increase your profits.
- A roof pitch hopper is durable and can serve you for a considerable period. During this period, your roofing work can be made easier.
- The pitch hopper enhances your safety and reduces roofing accidents. If you mostly work on dangerously steep roofs, you could encounter accidents that might render you unproductive or even incur serious injuries. You can reduce these risks greatly with a pitch hopper.
The pitch hopper is a roofing solution that can help you deliver your services effectively while ensuring your comfort and safety. You can work on different roof pitches without the fear of slipping off because the pitch hopper provides a firm grip and can hold a lot of weight. At Preferred Roofing, we can provide you with a high-quality pitch hopper for your roofing needs. Reach out to us today for more information.
Ridge Pro Safety Tool
Safety in roofing is paramount. You have probably come across steep roofs while conducting roof repairs or inspections. Among safety tools, the ridge pro safety tool provides a firm grip for you to safely maneuver on top of steep roofs. Read more about the ridge pro safety tool below.
What is a ridge pro safety tool?
This is a roofing solution designed to help you easily access a roof and enhance your safety. With a ridge pro safety tool, you can safely transition from your ladder to the roof and back after completing your services.
Features of ridge pro safety tool
This tool has several features that make it reliable and efficient for your roofing activities. Below are some of these features.
- The ridge pro safety tool is made of aluminum, making the tool lightweight and easy to transport and handle.
- This tool has an adjustable pitch selection grid and can be used for 6∕12 to 12∕12 roof pitches.
- The ridge pro safety tool comes with an adjustable extension pole that can help you anchor the tool firmly on the ridgeline without leaving your ladder.
- The tool has wheels that let you easily direct your anchor to the peak of the roof without struggling.
- The ridge pro safety tool has a pair of cross members that firmly attach to the floor of the roof. These cross members help you safely get on and off the roof and are padded to protect the roofing material from damage.
- The cross members each have two holes that you can use to drill bolts and firmly secure the ridge pro to the roof. After you are done with your repairs, you can safely remove the bolts and seal the holes with silicone gel.
- The ridge pro has a stainless steel shackle to which you can hook your rope for safe movement on the roof.
Benefits of the ridge pro safety tool
This tool has several benefits namely:
- You can attach the ridge pro without stepping on the steep roof, which would put your safety at risk.
- The ridge pro safety tool can withstand about 5000 pounds of pulling force, which makes it reliable and effective.
- This tool can be used for different roof pitches and adjusted accordingly
- You can easily access the roof’s peak with the ridge pro safety tool because the wheels make it easy to get the tool to the top
- The ridge pro safety tool is easy to carry and assemble. You can also install the tool single-handedly.
- When the ridge pro is properly anchored using bolts, you can access any part of the roof without risking your safety.
- The tool complies with the OSHA standards when properly anchored and secured.
The ridge pro safety tool is an effective, lightweight, and durable tool that enhances your safety and improves work efficiency. If you are considering getting the ridge pro safety tool you can seek advice from professional suppliers. At Preferred Roofing, we can readily advise you on the best way forward and provide you with a high quality ridge pro tool. Contact us today to get the conversation started.
Most durable materials for roofing
Roofing Materials
Whether you are replacing your existing roof or installing a new one, you need to select a roofing material that will add value and aesthetic appeal to your home. Therefore, while selecting your roofing material, a little research can help you choose the best roofing material based on its durability, cost, and appearance. Read on and learn more about roofing materials.
Most durable materials for roofing
It is easier to choose inexpensive roofing materials like shingles when your old one needs replacement, but you have a limited budget. However, selecting a more durable roofing material might be expensive, but it can save you from paying for numerous roof replacements in the long run. Some of the most durable roofing materials include:
Slate
Slate is made from natural stones, and it is one of the most durable roofing materials on the market today. Because of their durability, slate roofs are more common among historic buildings. Slate roofs can last between 75 and 150 years. They are also fireproof and cannot be easily destroyed in extreme weather conditions.
Clay tiles
Clay tiles are also very durable, and with proper maintenance, they can last up to 100 years. Clay tiles can be made from terracotta clay or fired clay, and they are installed in overlapping layers on the roof surface to increase their durability.
Metal
Metal roofs are also very durable. With proper installation, they can last between 30 to 50 years. Metal roofs are made from either aluminum, steel, copper, or zinc.
Some, including copper, do not rust or crack easily, and their high impact resistance increases their durability. With proper maintenance, the durability of a metal roof can also increase.
Wood
Another durable roofing material is wood. It can last between 30 to 50 years in moderate climates, while it can last up to 50 years in dry climates. If you are in fire-prone areas, like California, your wooden roof needs fire resistance treatment to increase durability. In areas with wet climates, the durability of wood reduces because of water damage.
Benefits of Roof Flashing
What are the benefits?
Roof flashing plays a critical part in protecting your roof and has several benefits that you may not be aware of. Here are a couple of benefits of roof flashing.
- The core advantage of employing roof flashing is that it prevents water from entering your walls through common entrance sites like roof joints, chimneys, vents, or doors and windows. It implies that the step is critical while replacing your roof or building a new home.
- Roof flashing is also a long-lasting process. Copper and steel roof flashing last for years with little maintenance.
Conclusion
Now that you understand the many types of roof flashings and their benefits, it is critical to recognize that roof flashings do not often last as long as the roof. All roofs require roof flashing to be replaced at least once during the roof’s lifespan. It is important to know that rubber boots can deteriorate over time due to frequent exposure to UV radiation and the sun heat.
Strong winds or impact from wind-blown objects might cause some flashing to become loosened. So, be sure to check that roof flashing is installed in the proper areas of your roof and have a roof inspection done as part of your roof’s routine maintenance to be sure that the roof flashing is in good condition. It is always best to take a proactive approach to your roof rather than waiting until you notice signs of damage or water leaks.
What is Roof Flashing
What is Roof Flashing
Roof flashing is a critical part of your roof and the component that helps protect your home from water infiltration and rain run off.
A leaking roof is never a good experience. Not only do roof leaks impact your roof, but they can cause damage to your home as well. And, when you experience a roof leak, there is usually more than meets the eye. Roof flashing is your roof's extra layer of protection. It is typically composed of thin, rust-resistant metal. Roof flashing is a seal that acts as a barrier where joints, vertical features, or structures such as chimneys, half walls, dormers, skylights, vent pipes, and other protrusions lie against the exterior wall. Roof flashing allows rainwater to run off the roof.
A roof is a collection of components and items that work seamlessly to keep you safe from the elements. A properly installed roof typically doesn't cause problems. However, as a roof ages, it is more susceptible to damage from storms, debris, hail, branches, and severe weather. By educating yourself on roof flashing and the various types, you will be able to discuss options with your roofing contractor and ask appropriate questions.
Roof Flashing Explained
Roof flashing is that flattened, thin membrane that keeps water away from a roof's crevices and holes. It sits beneath the shingles on your roof, and directs water from vulnerable areas.
Roof flashing can be made of copper, galvanized steel, aluminum, and stainless steel. Flashing along door edges, rain spouts, windows, and chimneys are installable by a roofing professional. Roof flashing is placed on every external joint or vents at the water exit points.
Do you know which sections of your roof require roof flashing? Take a look:
- Front walls and sidewalls
- Gorges
- Roof extensions (kitchen vents, bathroom vents, and skylights)
- Roof's edging (rakes and eaves)
Types of Roof Flashing
There are various types of roof flashing. Here is a closer look at the eight different types.
1. Step Flashing
Step flashing guards the point at which the roof meets the sidewalls of chimneys and others by stepping up the roof. It is a sequence of right-angled metal parts in the form of shingles. Each part overlaps the shingle below. The vertical border of the flashing is frequently tucked beneath the siding or covered with an additional counter flashing mortared into the chimney or caulked along a skylight to keep out water. . 2. Counter Flashing
Counter flashing, like step flashing, is usable on walls and chimneys. The bit of flashing is on an existing mortar joint, and the metal goes over the head of the brick, unlike step flashing. It is occasionally installable in the same manner as step flashing.
3. Base Flashing
Certain roof elements, such as chimneys, require two parts of flashing. Base flashing ensures that water is always directed away from the roof by a flashing surface. Unlike other forms of flashing, it is simple to install. The roof materials stretch and shrink with weather changes. Because the base flashing comprises two components, it may move with it.
- Skylight Flashing
Most skylights come with flashing, but if yours does not, your roofing contractor will have to order it or make it himself. The first line of defense against leaks and dampness is skylight flashings. They do it without employing sealants, which can break down over time and cause harm.
- Continuous Flashing
Continuous flashing, often known as apron flashing, is a lengthy piece of metal that transports water to the roof shingles beneath. Constant flashing struggles to flex as your house swells and compresses. Expansion joints are placed into extended lengths to prevent continuous flashing from wrapping and breaking.
6. Drip Edges
Put drip edges to keep water from leaking beneath roofing along eave and rake edges. It guides water away from the roof edge, preventing it from getting under your roofing materials or rotting the wood at the edges.
- Valley Flashing
Valley flashing shields the valleys formed by the intersection of two roof surfaces. This W-shaped channel is on the top of the building before installing the roof's finishing material.
8. Kickout Flashing
Kickout flashing, also known as diverter flashing, plugs the gap between where the step flashing finishes and the gutter begins. It diverts water away from your wall and into the drain.
Fiber Cement Siding Cost
HOW MUCH DOES FIBER CEMENT SIDING COST?
If you're looking for a durable, long-lasting siding material, fiber cement siding, also referred to as Hardie Board, is a terrific option, as it can last up to 50 years. In addition, the bulk of cement siding costs are upfront with the installation. The cost of maintaining cement siding is minimal. Let's take a closer look at the fiber cement cost.
GENERAL FIBER CEMENT COST PER SQUARE FOOT
While many different factors affect the cement siding cost, fiber cement generally costs between $4 - $14 per square foot installed, with an average price of $10 per square foot. Expect to pay about $3,900 for a 1,500-square-foot home on the low end. The average cost of cement siding is $12,000 for the same size house, and on the high-end, upwards of $30,000. Most of the cost associated with fiber cement siding is in the installation. It is always best to have fiber cement professionally installed. Considering the product's 50-plus-year lifespan, fiber cement is an excellent investment for your home. Aside from repainting or general maintenance every 10-15 years, the costs of maintaining fiber cement siding are minimal.
FACTORS THAT AFFECT CEMENT SIDING COST
To get a better idea of the cement siding cost for your home, consider the following factors:
- Size of the home
- Is it a build, or are you replacing old siding?
- How many windows, doors, or other openings are there?
- What type of trim is being used?
- Where is the home located?
- What is the energy rating (r-value) of the insulation?
FIBER CEMENT MATERIAL COSTS
If you plan on installing the fibquer cement siding, the cost of materials ranges between $0.80 and $15 per sare foot. While you might save money on DIY fiber cement installation, it should be left to the hands of experienced professionals. Installing fiber cement siding requires specific tools and master carpentry skills, or costly issues such as water damage could arise.
TYPES & COST OF FIBER CEMENT SIDING
Fiber cement siding comes in panels, shingles, and planks. Here’s a break down of costs for the various cement siding options.
Panels
The most expensive fiber cement siding, panels cost between $2- and $16 per square foot. If you are purchasing panels in bulk, talk to your supplier. Many suppliers offer discounts for bulk siding purchases.
Shingles
Shingles are a versatile option as they come in many shapes and sizes. Shingles cost between $1.50 and $6 per square foot.
Planks
The most inexpensive option, fiber cement planks, cost between $0.50 – $7 per square foot or $7 - $50 per plank. While planks are cheaper to buy, they are often more money to install.
Fiber cement siding is a great choice for homes of all styles and sizes. If you want more information, stop by your local roofing supply store, and speak with a professional who will be able to give you an accurate estimate.
What is Fiber Cement Siding?
What Is Fiber Cement Siding? Options
Fiber cement siding is a material used as cladding on the walls. It can be used on walls as a protective or decorative feature. It is made of fiber cement boards.
What is fiber cement board?
A fiber cement board is a material made of cement and fibers. Typically, it is made of Portland cement and cellulose fibers. In some instances, sand is also added to give it extra strength and durability.
Fiber cement boards come in different shapes and sizes, including square and rectangular shapes. They can also be cut into various designs and shapes. However, they are predominantly rectangular with 3ft by 5 ft. and 4ft by 8ft.
Most people have trouble differentiating between these boards and wood because they can be made to mimic natural wood, including adding warm colors.
How to cut fiber cement panels?
Before you begin cutting fiber cement panels, you first need to know what to avoid. Generally, you want to keep dust to the minimum, ensure you get smooth straight edges, and stay safe.
To do that, you need the right tools. You can buy a blade specifically designed for cutting fiber cement boards. Typically, they are circular saws with 4-6 teeth blades, scoring tools, or special siding shears. You can also look specifically for fiber cement board cutting tools.
You also need to wear the right protective gear, such as dust masks. Sometimes you may need to reverse the blade to minimize dust.
Remember, the board's thickness will determine the tool you will need to use. Thin cement boards can be cut using shears or using the old-fashioned way of scoring and snapping along the created weakness. Thick pieces may require diamond or carbide blade saws.
Since this is a dangerous job to try, especially when using wood-cutting blades, it is good to leave it to the experts.
Durability
Cement structures can last for a century when well cured. Fiber cement boards have a combination of cement, sand, and holding cellulose threads. This makes them some of the handiest siding materials you will find in the market.
Barring any catastrophe, they should last for 50 uninterrupted years before they need replacement. What makes them extremely durable is the fact that they resist most of the elements that have the potential to undermine their structural integrity.
They keep water away. If painted regularly, they can remain in tip-top conditions without the combination of cement, sand, and fiber being exposed to the environment keeping them in perfect conditions throughout.
They cannot be affected by extreme heat even when a building is under fire. The color might change but the boards remain in good condition.
That is why the manufacturer's warranties typically range from 25-50 years. Remember, different fiber cement boards will have different endurance levels. You cannot expect thin boards to last as long as the standard siding boards for outdoor installations. For that reason, it is good to know that good-quality boards will give you the best results.
For all your siding board installations, consider using fiber cement boards for their versatility, authenticity, and durability. Give us a call for all your upcoming projects.
9 Benefits of Fiber Cement Siding
What are the benefits of Fiber Cement Siding?
The benefits of fiber cement siding are many. That is why it is one of the most popular siding material. Here are some of the advantages of fiber cement siding.
1. Diversity
You want a material that will not limit you from getting the best out of your design or theme. Fiber cement boards come in almost any color variety that you may need. They can also be shaped in any design to fit your overall intentions. Even though most of them come in square shapes, they can come in other designer shapes and sizes.
2. Longevity
Compared to most other siding materials in the market, fiber cement boards do very well. In places where the weather is not extreme, you can expect good service for 50 years. Even in the most torturous weathers, they still last 30 years. However, only good installation and proper maintenance can help you get the best out of your sidings.
3. Fire resistance
The material is non-combustible. Cement is resistant to fire and heat, making fiber boards equally resistant to fire and heat damage. Even in the wake of a fire and heat exposure, the structural integrity of the boards is not affected. It will not warp or crack even when exposed to high temperatures.
4. Easy installations
These prefabricated materials are designed for easy installations. The boards overlap with each other making it easy for constructions teams to complete the project quickly. This means that you can complete your project quickly and decisively.
5. Cost friendly
Unlike other materials such as wood and vinyl, fiber cement is value for money. Its low cost installations and overall long lasting feature makes it the best siding option. Typically, it will cost less than $10 per square foot because of the ease of installations and cost of the boards.
6. Friendly to the environment
Fiber boards, as the name suggests is made of cellulose fibers and cement, all of which are very friendly to the environment. This is because all of them are naturally occurring or easy to produce. Even after it is replaced, it can easily be released to nature without any harmful repercussions to the environment. It can also be 100% recycled.
7. Keeps insects away
Unlike wood, fiber cement cannot be attacked by insects such as borers and termites. The smooth outer layer also makes it difficult for others insects such as wasps to build on it.
8. Resists water damage
The material has extremely low porosity levels. This makes it resist water damage even in the face of floods. However, during installations, the material is prone to moisture problems. It is advisable to only install the material when it is completely dry. This means that the butt joints will fit snuggly making it impervious.
9. Easy to maintain
Every 7 or so years, fiber cement sidings can be repainted to keep the gloss shine intact. Doing so ensures that the material remains in good condition for many more years.
Standing seam roof pros and cons
Before you decide whether to use standing seam roofing, consider the system’s benefits and downsides. The following are some of the pros and cons of standing seam metal roofing.
Pros
The following are some of the upsides of using standing seam roofing.
Standing seam roof panels are weather-tight
This type of roof is known to withstand unfavorable weather conditions. Do you reside in an area that experiences harsh climatic conditions? Well, if you do, you should consider installing a standing seam roof.
Standing seam roofing is durable.
Due to the roof’s ability to survive through hostile climatic conditions, it can last long. Think of it as a long-term investment. Standing seam metal roofing can last for more than 40 years.
Standing seam metal roofing is fire resistant.
Standing seam roofing is incombustible, making it an option you should consider to prevent fire damage. A fire accident could occur in your house. With the right roofing system, you could probably save a coin when accounting for repairs. Additionally, this type of roofing will derail the fire from spreading, saving you from severe destruction of property.
Standing seam roofing requires minimal maintenance.
This type of roofing has concealed fasteners that are not exposed to the weather. Thus, it is rare for its components to break down. If you are looking for a roofing system that doesn’t require regular repair, consider choosing standing seam roofing.
Cons
There are a few downsides you should consider.
Standing seam metal roofing is costly.
One of the drawbacks of standing seam roofing is its high cost. This type of roof requires a skilled roofing professional since the work involved is complex. Therefore, the cost of installation becomes high. Additionally, the materials required for roofing are expensive.
Standing seam roofing produces a high amount of noise
In the rainy season, you are more likely to experience a lot of noise from your roof. We advise you to insulate your house efficiently to ward off the noise.
What is a slate roof?
This is a type of roofing system that comprises natural slate tiles. If you are looking for a roofing system that adds an aesthetic appeal to your house, a slate roof would be the best option.
Before you decide whether to use a slate roofing system, there are a few factors you should address. They include:
The weight of the roof
Slate roofs are extremely heavy. Therefore, you should find out whether your house can carry the weight of the roof. If the weight of the roof becomes too heavy, it could cave in.
Cost
A slate roof is expensive to install. However, it is also durable. If you are looking for an affordable roofing system, you could consider other alternatives. You could also choose to consider durability and incur the cost.
Skilled contractor
Hiring an experienced contractor is vital to your slate roof investment. Why? They will ensure that your slate roof is properly installed. Additionally, the materials used to install a slate roof are fragile and need to be handled with care.
Deciding on the most appropriate roofing system requires a lot of planning. The cost, durability, weight, and other factors will determine the type of roofing system you choose. If you require assistance regarding roof types and installation, Preferred Roofing will cater to all your needs.
What Is Standing Seam Metal Roofing?
Standing seam metal roofing is a roofing system characterized by vertical legs which have a space in between them. This roofing system consists of concealed fasteners. The roofing system could similarly be referred to as a sequence of panels that are seamed together mechanically.
Different types of metal are used in standing seam metal roofing. Below are some of the variety of metals that could be used.
- Aluminum
- Steel
- Copper
Additionally, the roofing metals come in a variety of colors you could choose from. Some of these colors include:
- Medium Bronze
- Ash Gray
- Matte Black
- Sandstone
Standing seam metal roofs that have deteriorated over time can be retrofitted. Therefore, a retrofit will cut the cost that you could have incurred while tearing down your old roof.
Before installing the roof, there are a few things your contractor will require you to consider.
Roof decking
These are the materials that support your roofing system. Your contractor could help you choose the best material for your roof foundation. These materials include; wood, steel, or concrete. Roof decking protects your building from leaks and other damages.
Lock strips
Lock strips hold the standing seam panels to the edges of your roof. The lock strips protect the seam panels from wind or strong storms.
Underlayment
Roof underlayment is the material laid on the surface of your roof deck before your roof is installed. The material protects your roof from heat, water, snow, and other hazards. Roof underlayment is commonly made of waterproof materials like rubberized asphalt.