How to Avoid Being Scammed When Getting a New Roof

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Getting a new roof is a big investment. Some unscrupulous roofers or individuals claiming to be roofers might try to rip you off. This is especially common after a severe weather event that damages a lot of roofs in the community. Paying a deposit only to find that the roofer takes off with your money, starts the job and doesn’t finish or uses inferior materials and shoddy practices put your finances and home at risk. Here are some tips on how to check the references of a roofer and avoid getting ripped off by a con artist.

Getting a New Roof- Check the Roofer’s References

Before making any deposits or signing any contracts for getting a new roof, check the roofer’s references. You can ask for some past customers and their contact information. However, a scam could involve the roofer giving you the names and numbers of their friends or family. You could also ask for a list of roofs they have done in the past year in your neighborhood. With that information, you could contact the homeowners and ask for their review of the roofer. You could also check references from the roofer’s suppliers. Find out if they pay their bills on time and how well they communicate. When contacting the roofer’s recent customers, ask about the estimate versus actual cost, if the job was done on time, if the customer was satisfied and if they would choose the same roofer again.

Verify the Business License and Insurance

You should also verify that the roofer is licensed to do business in your city, county or state. An ethical roofer will have no problem giving you their business license number. Also, ask for their liability insurance policy information. You can verify that the roofer is insured for any injuries incurred by their workers. Be sure to verify the policy’s coverage if the roofer causes any damage to your home, the neighbor’s home or any public areas, such as a right-of-way or sidewalk.

Check With the Better Business Bureau

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) offers online information about businesses. Especially when getting a new roof, its important to check out the BBB. If a customer files a complaint with the BBB, it will be listed on the website. BBB listings are by location. Keep in mind that some scam artists will list their location as a different state in order to avoid getting reported to the BBB. They may also change their business name frequently. On the BBB website, you can read through customer complaints and the business’s response. You can find out if the complaints were resolved to the customer’s satisfaction. If a business has a lot of unresolved complaints, it will have a poor BBB ranking.

Look at Online Review Sites

Not all customers with a problem will go through the BBB. Some might choose to leave an online review elsewhere. Consider perusing the reviews on sites including Yelp, Angie’s List and Google. Keep in mind that unhappy customers are more likely to leave a review than customers who were satisfied. Getting a new roof?  Contact Steele Restoration for a local company you can trust.

Home Roof Designs: Why It’s Important to Choose Right

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Home roof designs can vary. The roof is one of the most important parts of any home. However, it’s also one of the most underestimated. Strong winds, severe thunderstorms and hail can cause significant damage to a home’s integrity. In fact, even the sturdiest of roofs can be damaged. And depending on the roof design, certain areas can weaken and components may start to loosen and rust.  Understanding why roof design is important is the first step to replacing your roof. Although they make them look similar, all roofs are not the same.

Here’s why it’s important to choose from the best home roof designs.

Types of Home Roof Designs

Deciding on types of home roof designs involves more than aesthetics. Certain types of roofs are designed specifically with a purpose in mind.

  • Gable Roof: Gable roofs, also called a pitched roof, is probably the most popular type of roof. Known for their triangular shape, gable roofs withstand heavy rains and snow well. Note, gable roofs are not the best choice in areas that are prone to heavy winds. Tornado-force winds can actually cause roofing material to pull away, if it’s not installed properly.
  • Hip Roof: A hip roof has slopes on all four sides. The sides are all equal length and come together at the top to form the ridge. Since the slant allows easier water and snow run-off, these roofs are an excellent choice in areas that have heavy snowfall. However, hip roofs are usually more expensive than traditional gable roofs. In addition, if installed incorrectly, hip roofs are more prone to leaks, especially around the dormers. These types of roofs must also be slanted correctly to avoid leaking.
  • Slant Roof: A slant roof is a type of roof that offers more effective drainage. Due to the increase in the slope, things like water, leaves and debris will fall off more easily. However, the unique design of a slant roof may cost more than the other options.
  • Shaker Roof: Shaker roofs are roofs that are primarily made of wood. However, most shake shingles are made of fiberglass and asphalt. This is to make it more durable and increase the aesthetic of the house. But shaker roofs aren’t easy to install, they can cost a lot of money and are prone to fires.

 

It Can Save Homeowners Money

Roof installation is a huge investment. In fact, even the least expensive type of roof can cost thousands of dollars. When looking at home roof designs, you need to think about the type of materials you want to use, how large your roof is and how much you are willing to invest.

 

It Will Last Longer

On average, roofs should last somewhere between 20 to 25 years. However, the longevity of a roof depends on both the design and the materials used. Some roofs can even last up to 50 years. However, not all types of home roof designs are compatible for every home. Without the right roof design, homeowners may be opening the door for catastrophic damage to not only the roof, but the interior of their home as well.

In addition, some roof designs may not be as durable as others. It’s important to research the different types of roof designs while keeping the following points in mind. Where you live plays a huge role in your choice of roof design. If you live in an area with turbulent weather, like scorching summers or heavy snow in the winter, you need to choose a roof design specifically made for these conditions.

It Lowers the Need for Maintenance

Regardless of style or design, every roof requires maintenance. However, when a roof starts to need more than routine maintenance, that’s an indicator that something isn’t right. The right roof design should only require maintenance once a year.

It’s worth pointing out that the design of a roof is more than the way it’s laid out. Again, you need to consider the materials as well. You may love the way a stucco roof looks, however, it might not be structurally sound.

If you’re having trouble deciding home roof designs, be sure to consult a professional roofing company like Steele Restoration. We can help you come up with the most effective and affordable options. Contact Steele Restoration for more information on new home roof designs.

Design a Rich-Looking Roof on a Budget

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A rich looking roof would be great! Roof designs face limits of budget and imagination. With enough money behind the idea, almost all plans are possible. However, it will take a bit more planning to achieve the look you want with a smaller budget.

Six factors are essential for choosing a new roof design:

  • Aesthetics and your personal preference
  • Total cost
  • Roof functionality
  • Building geometry/design
  • Adjacent building and surrounding geometries
  • Zoning and planning regulations

Keep these in mind when deciding on your next roof.

Gable Roofs With Fake Dormers Pack a Punch

One design that looks fantastic but doesn’t break the bank is a gable roof that’s augmented with fake dormers. Gable is a traditional roofing style known for its versatility and low cost. Using this design and adding aesthetic touches like the faux dormers give any home a classic appeal.

 

A Flat Roof Is a Rich Looking Roof

Most people who think of roofs picture soft sloping materials that finish at a peak. However, modern designers are moving away from that aesthetic and turning towards cleaner lines. An example is the current flat roof, which is gaining popularity. A flat roof is becoming very popular and is definitely rich looking.

Naturally, this type of roof works primarily with modern homes and is not a suitable replacement for many. However, for new builds, it’s worth considering how a flat roof can benefit the homeowner.

 

The White or Cool Roof Is an Option

White roofs, or very light-colored ones, are considered to be cool roofs. They significantly reduced the average roof temperature by reflecting the sun rays away from the home. That keeps the roof itself and the interior of the house cooler.

 

Cooler temperatures are fantastic for reducing energy bills during the summer months. Fortunately, white asphalt shingles are inexpensive, making this type of roof an excellent choice for multiple reasons. Depending on the budget, it’s also possible to purchase white metal roofs that are more durable but that offer similar advantages.

A Sustainable Wood Shake or Shingle Roof Makes Sense

Consider wood shake or shingles if you’re looking for an eco-friendly roofing material with strong curb appeal. These wood shingles come from sustainably managed forests and are biodegradable and natural. They provide a classic cottage look of shingles and make your home stand out.

 

Sustainable materials may cost a few extra dollars initially, but having them is a strong selling point. If you plan on getting the most out of your house when you put it up for sale, it may be worth using more in-demand materials.

Rubber Roofing for a Rich Looking Roof

An affordable and eco-friendly option is rubber roofing, which is gaining mass acceptance among homeowners. This material comes from recycled vehicle tires, which once all went to landfills.

Now, contractors can use recycled materials to create attractive roofs for clients. An average roof uses 250 to 1,000 rubber tires and can look like many different traditional roofs. The shingles look like a wood shake but last up to 50 years under warranty. Roof roofing systems are worth a look for people who want to gain the most from their long-term investments. Contact Steel Restoration for a rich looking roof today!

Defaulting on a Note After You Get a New Roof

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Owning a home is a rather expensive endeavor. Homeowners pay yearly property taxes, monthly mortgage payments, and also finance general upkeep for their property. This is why so many people choose to finance the work they do on their roof. The cost of replacing or repairing a roof costs on average $7,500.

Sometimes loans sneak up on us, however, and it becomes difficult to stay up to date with a payment schedule. Unfortunately, it’s not an uncommon instance that homeowners will finance the work they’re doing to a financer and cannot keep up with the loan costs. Because of this, homeowners end up defaulting on the loan.

So, what happens when a homeowner defaults on a loan they’ve taken out for work on their roof? The short answer is that it depends on what kind of loan you take out.

Unsecured Personal Loans

Home repair loans can take many different forms. You may take out a personal loan to finance your roof. This is an option worth considering because an unsecured personal loan does not put up your house as collateral.

Since this loan is unsecured, homeowners are not guaranteed a lower interested rate. However, if you can’t pay the loan back and end up defaulting, you’re not at risk of losing your new roof or your new home.

Home Equity Loans

Home equity loans are attractive loans for homeowners to consider because they allow you to borrow money against the worth of your home. Most often, homeowners can’t borrow more than 85% of their equity in the home. Home equity loans are secured, which means that homeowners will receive a lower interest rate than with an unsecured loan.

However, home equity loans tend to come with fees, and if you default on a home equity loan, you’re at risk of losing your house.

Home Equity Line of Credit

A home equity line of credit is very similar to a home equity loan in that you need to put up your home as collateral for the loan. It is also a secured loan so interest rates should be reasonable. But instead of receiving a lump sum of cash, you’re given a line of credit, which can make payments easier to keep up with. However, one catch to keep in mind is your budget. If you borrow more than you can pay back, you’ll risk foreclosing your home. Contact Steele Restoration if you need a new roof.

Building New Home Versus Upgrading Your House

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The question of whether to build a new home versus renovating your current one is challenging. Both are expensive, and each has benefits and drawbacks. Your primary responsibility is to balance your needs against project costs and what you hope to achieve.

Renovating with metal siding is an alternative to building a brand-new home, and doing these jobs requires investing in the long-term viability of the structure. Metal siding and roofing are excellent in that capacity because they improve the house and bump up the resale value.

At $9 to $12 per square foot, adding a metal roof is viable for most homeowners. Metal roofs add support to the overall dwelling and need replacement much less often than traditional materials.

Costs of building a new home

Buying a new home costs about $31 more per square foot than purchasing an existing one. The question, then, becomes whether that amount saved would be enough to use for investing in upgrades. If it is, and the house has all the amenities you desire, you may want to go that route.

Keep in mind that newly built houses contain a profit for the builder. They are also brand new, so there’s no sort of discount for normal wear and tear. That’s why people spend more on average. They also want to get a house built for their precise needs, and custom building a home is the best way to achieve that goal.

Ultimately, which one is a better deal will not always come down to strictly costs, although that factor should be crucial. If you pay too much for a new build or upgrade, selling at a profit becomes impossible.

Consider the Benefits of Your Current Home

If you love the location of your house or have kids in a school system they enjoy, you may be less likely to build. If your home is annoying to you, and you can’t stand certain aspects, then creating something ideal for you is an option.

Ultimately, your decision to upgrade or build new will come down to what you want most. It’s worth deciding on your budget because that factor will determine what you’re able to accomplish. If you have the funding to achieve either goal, you must decide on your long-term plans for life. Contact Steele Restoration for more information today.

An Introduction to Engineered Wood Siding

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Whether you’re building a new home, putting on an addition, or upgrading your home’s exterior, you’ll need to make a choice about siding. Decades ago, many homes used aluminum siding, which is no longer available. You will be left with a choice between vinyl siding, wood, fiber cement, and engineered wood. Here is what you need to know about engineered wood siding so that you can make an informed decision.

 

What Is Engineered Wood Siding?

Engineered wood siding is a composite material. It consists of strands of different types of hardwood mixed with other fibers and adhesive materials. These strands are compressed and formed into sheets, which are then sealed, scored, and cut. The siding planks are available in sheets measuring four by eight feet or in lap panels, which can be connected piece by piece. This type of siding has a lifespan of 20 to 30 years, depending on your home’s location, the amount of sunlight and precipitation, and the temperature range.

 

Cost of Engineered Wood Siding

The installation costs range from $3.58 to $8.58 per square foot. The cost of natural hardwood siding is $8 to $12 per square foot, so you would spend considerably less. The cost of vinyl siding is $2 to $8 per square foot.

 

Benefits for Your Home

There are many benefits to choosing this type of siding for your home. It requires virtually no maintenance. If you notice that it is dusty or dirty, all you need to do is spray it with your garden hose. No detergents, painting, or sealing are required in order to keep it in pristine condition. The color is uniform, so less of the material goes to waste. This siding is available in a range of colors and textures. Choose a style that mimics cedar, yellow pine, or other type of natural wood. It does not split, crack, or warp. The engineered wood siding is resistant to mold, mildew, wood-destroying insects, rot, decay, fading, hail damage, and wind damage. Most engineered wood siding offers a 20- to 30-year guarantee from the manufacturer. Engineered wood siding is environmentally friendly, too. It makes use of sawdust and fiber strands from wood that would otherwise go to waste.

 

Drawbacks of

Before you decide on this type of siding for your home, there are a few drawbacks to consider. When you look at it closely, you can tell that it is not genuine hardwood. Its planks are too perfect and lack some of the natural variation and faults of hardwood, such as notches and discolored areas. Modern engineered wood siding is a relatively young product. Some early versions, which are no longer made, had issues with moisture intrusion. There is not a lot of information about its durability, but you can rely on the manufacturer’s warranty for peace of mind. Contact us, here at Steele Restoration for more information.

3 Common Roof Problems and DIY Ways to Fix Them

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Keeping your roof in excellent shape is important in avoiding costly repairs in the future. However, your roof may eventually have a few problems, so it is a good idea to understand how to fix these problems yourself before they turn into more significant issues. Here are a few tips for how to repair common roof problems yourself.

 

1. Leaky Roof Problems

 

A leaky roof is an all-too-common problem for many homeowners and businesses. Getting the leak fixed as soon as possible is essential in limiting damage inside your home or building. A roof can be leaking due to a variety of reasons, whether it is due to damaged shingles, flashing issues, or curled shingles. You can re-secure a curled back shingle by coating it with asphalt roofing cement, and you can replace a damaged shingle. You can easily repair the metal flashing around your chimney by using a caulk gun to reseal the joints to prevent additional leaks.

 

2. Missing Shingles

 

Severe weather conditions can cause your shingle to blow off your roof. These missing shingles can cause significant damage to the structure of your roof if you do not replace it in a timely manner. All you need to do to replace a shingle is to purchase a new one and put it in the place of the missing shingle by using roofing nails. Applying a small amount of roof cement is also important to help you seal the shingle to the roof.

 

3. Roof Punctures

Fallen tree limbs during a storm can create significant punctures in your roof. Getting a tarp to cover these holes is critical in limiting further damages to your home. You can nail several pieces of lumber to secure the tarp on the roof to keep your home temporarily protected. Typically, it is a good idea to reach out to a professional roofing contractor to handle significant damages to your roof unless you have experience working in the roofing industry.

 

Understanding how to handle these common roofing problems is important for extending the lifespan of your roof and avoiding costly repairs. The average lifespan of an asphalt shingle roof is around 20 years, a wood roof can last up to 30 years, and a metal roof can last nearly five decades. While it is a cost-effective investment to fix minor roofing issues yourself, it is always a good idea to reach out to a professional roofing contractor for more complex repair work. Contact Steele Restoration for more information.

How Your Roof Affects Your Homeowner’s Insurance Premiums

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Homeowner’s insurance premiums are a real concern. Your home’s roof is an essential part of the structure. It protects the exterior walls, foundation and everything inside. When you’re shopping for quotes for a homeowner’s insurance policy, the insurance company will want to know about the roof. There are many aspects of a roof that go into the calculation of your premium.

Why the Roof Matters to Insurance Premiums

A rooftop is a considerable amount of the exterior surface area of a house. If it is old, worn out or damaged, an insurance company will assume that you will need to make a claim on it soon and increase your insurance premiums. A roof that is at the end of its lifespan has missing parts or is damaged will likely need to be replaced. A weak or damaged roof is also at risk of even more damage, especially if high winds or a heavy rainstorm come through the area. Because a bad roof increases your chances of making an insurance claim, the agents will quote you a higher premium than you would pay if your home had a brand-new roof or a young roof free of defects.

Type of Roofing Material

Many insurance companies will send an assessor or inspector to your home in order to give you a quote for a premium. Some will simply ask you questions. In either case, the type of roofing material will be an important consideration. Asphalt shingle roofs are the standard material in many places across the United States. They have a lifespan of 15 to 25 years. They’re also prone to problems, such as shingles blowing off, hail damage, and popped nails. Tile roofs last longer, typically around 25 to 50 years. They’re a great choice for withstanding fire, heat, hail and high winds, but they’re a poor choice for cold environments. Metal roofs last for at least 50 years, and they can handle any conditions. Slate is similar to tile, but it usually lasts longer and costs more to install or replace. Wood shakes are the riskiest roofing material and will increase your premiums. They are prone to rot, mold and mildew, fire damage, wind damage and pest damage.

 

Roof Condition and Insurance Premiums

Once your roof is at two-thirds of its life expectancy, your chances of a claim denial increase, so your homeowner’s insurance premiums could increase. For example, if you file a storm damage claim on a 10-year-old asphalt shingle roof, your insurance company might deny it. If they accept it, you may only get a pro-rated amount after your deductible and the 10 years of wear and tear are considered. The insurance agent could argue that your leak was caused by the roof’s age rather than the storm’s wind gusts and hail. Your homeowner’s premium will also consider the way your roof was installed. Improper installation, including lack of adequate ventilation, missing flashing, no gutters or downspouts in a rainy area or too many layers of asphalt shingles, could increase the premium you pay for homeowner’s insurance. Contact Steele Restoration for more information.