Choosing the right type of roof for a new house or a complete roof replacement can be quite difficult. There are so many options available on the market, but which one is the best for you?
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are the most common residential roofing material in the U.S. They are readily available, relatively inexpensive up-front, and easy to install. Tearing down a shingle roof can be quick, making replacement easy and affordable. Depending on the materials and construction, asphalt shingle roofs last up to 20 years or more. They are available in a wide range of colors, patterns, and styles, so you can find something to match your home’s exterior and increase curb appeal.
The main disadvantage is they can crack more easily upon impact and when exposed to extreme temperature fluctuations. They’re also more vulnerable to wind damage and can be susceptible to mildew and moss issues.
Metal
Metal roofs are becoming increasingly popular among homeowners. They’re known for their toughness and can last between 40 to 70 years. They’re extremely lightweight, low-maintenance, and environmentally friendly.
They’re non-combustible and perform well against strong winds, moisture, and pesky insects. Through integrated thermal breaks and reflective coatings, metal roofs can reduce your home’s energy costs by up to 25% or more.
Metal roofs are more expensive than most other roofing materials. They can be noisy during heavy rains or hail storms and are prone to expansion and contraction. The installation process for metal roofs can be longer.
Tiles
Whether made of molded concrete, fired clay, or slate, a tile roof will add a lot of character in your home. They come in many shapes: flat, curved, interlocking, fluted, and in many styles.
Quality tiles should last 50 to 100 years or more. Roof tiles are generally durable, fireproofed, and resistant to fading. They are low-maintenance, can withstand strong gushes of wind, and are impervious to rot and insect damage.
Tile roofing is a great option for areas exposed to hot weather. They are energy efficient because they’re designed to reflect light and their heavy thermal mass helps provide insulation during colder temperatures, helping you cut down on heating and cooling bills.
Tile roofs tend to be expensive and are heavy and difficult to install. What’s more, they are fragile and unsuitable for climates with fluctuating weather.
Wood/Cedar Shake
A traditional cedar shake roof is made from split logs. These roofs have a very distinctive and natural look because every shingle is of slightly varying thickness and length. Cedar shake roofs have been around since the colonial times for many reasons.
They’re reliable in any climate and can withstand harsh weather conditions. Cedar is a natural insulator and can cut down on energy expenses. With proper maintenance, a wood shake shingle roof will have a useful life of 20 to 40 years.
While fire-resistance is a concern, cedar shake roofs usually have a fire-resistance coating for safety. Wood shake roofing is about double the cost of popular roofing materials such as asphalt shingles. They also require a great deal of professional maintenance to prevent the growth of algae and moss, insect infiltration, and to keep it from deteriorating too quickly.
Flat Roof
Flat roofs are becoming increasingly popular among homeowners because of their modern aesthetics and unique look. PVC, single-ply TPO, and torch down are some of the most common types of flat roofing materials.
Flat roofs are affordable and easier to install because they need fewer materials, come in large sheets, and there is no pitch to the roof. They also offer extra space at the top, which you can use for solar panels or air conditioning units or you can have a rooftop deck or patio.
The materials offer excellent protection against UV rays, water, insects, and inclement weather. Some of the membranes can reflect UV rays to keep the home cooler; others can absorb heat to lower heating bills.
Flat roof materials generally have a lifespan of 15 to 20 years. Membranes can be easily punctured by falling tree debris, foot traffic, or storm damage. They require more maintenance because water will collect over time, especially when the weather is rainy.
When it’s time for a new roof, look to Guardian Homes. We specialize in residential roof repairs, replacement, and maintenance. Our roofing technicians are uniquely qualified to give you accurate information about every type of roof material to help you choose the best option and style for your home. Get in touch with us for an appointment and/or estimate.
The roof plays a critical role in protecting your property and family from the elements regardless of the prevailing weather conditions. With proper installation and maintenance, your roof should keep you safe and dry for decades. Unfortunately, your roof will suffer from wear and tear over the years, but when you keep up to date with preventive maintenance, you can solve issues quickly and easily. Here are the top three residential roofing practices you can do:
It is an excellent idea to periodically carry out visual inspections of your roof. After heavy storms, try to walk around your home to see if there are any visible signs of damage or if debris has accumulated on your roof. Rotting tree branches and leaves can cause damage to shingles and clog your gutter system.
If you spot any signs of damage, you should call a reputable local roofing contractor and arrange for repairs as soon as possible. It’s recommended you have your roof inspected twice a year by a professional and after heavy storms. This way, you can identify minor issues and fix them early before they escalate into major, costly problems requiring a full roof replacement.
Keep comprehensive records regarding your roof, including when it was installed, maintenance done on it, and any other pertinent information. Other than helping you know when to schedule periodic inspections and maintenance, keeping clear records about your roof can help keep your warranty intact. Records of dates and details of roofers who stepped on your roof can also help you identify the cause of roofing issues and show due diligence with your roof maintenance plans.
Although you can regularly conduct visual inspections of your roof or clean any debris on your roof and gutters from a ladder, it’s never advisable to go on the roof yourself. Let a professional roofer carry out any work. Roofing is one of the riskiest professions due to the heights involved.
From the ground level, you can, however, carry out visual inspection of your roof and look out for the following:
Only an experienced roofer has the training, expertise, and equipment to safely climb up roofs and carry out detailed inspections and necessary repairs. Typically, early discovery of issues can lead to cheaper and more manageable solutions.
At Guardian Homes in the greater Puget Sound Area, we have the experience to maintain your roof and provide you with invaluable tips on how to care for it. Our roofing specialists will also give you a rough estimate of how much longer your roof will last. Contact us today to schedule your roofing inspection.
Repairing or replacing your roofing system can be a costly proposition. So, it’s important as a homeowner to understand the life expectancies of different roofing materials to make an informed choice when investing in a new roof. Here is a quick roundup of how long various residential roofing materials last.
An asphalt shingle roof lasts around 15 to 25 years when properly maintained and barring significant storms or disasters. However, you will need to have your roof thoroughly inspected by a professional around the 15-year mark, especially if your roof has faced a major weather issue.
If you suspect your asphalt shingles might need repairs or replacement, look out for major cracks, curled shingles around the edges, or missing granules. A hailstorm, tornado, blizzard, or other catastrophic weather event could shorten the lifetime, prompting untimely repairs or replacement.
Metal roofing systems are becoming increasingly popular for residential homes, thanks to their longevity. With proper installation and maintenance, metal roofs can last for decades. Typically, a metal roof can last for up to 50 years or even longer if it is well cared for and no major storms or other problems occur. In fact, copper or zinc can remain beautiful and fully functional for 100 years, making their high upfront cost well worth the investment.
If your home has a flat or low-sloped roof, a roofing membrane such as EPDM can be an ideal choice due to its low cost and ease of installation and repair. However, EPDM roofs only last 5-15 years and are prone to leakage due to their glued or taped seams. TPO or PVC roof membranes are more costly but relatively more durable alternatives for flat or low-sloped roofs.
Cedar roofing offers an elegant and timeless appearance. It’s highly rot and insect-resistant, making it last for decades or even longer with proper maintenance. Typically, cedar shingles or shakes can last 30-40 years depending on the climate, level of maintenance, and presence of any overhanging trees which can cause faster deterioration. When you begin to notice cedar shingles or shakes peeling or cracking, then you know it is time to consider repairing or replacing your roof.
Tile roofing systems are popular in warmer, wetter climates due to their impressive heating and cooling efficiencies and water resistance. The lifespan of your tile roof will largely depend on the specific type of tile you choose and the prevailing weather conditions in your region. Overall, tile roofs can last 100 years or longer with proper care.
While the lifespan of your roof will largely depend on the specific roofing material you choose, the installation technique and maintenance routines will significantly shorten or prolong the life expectancy of your roof. Always work with a reliable, local roofer for all your roofing and maintenance needs. Guardian Homes is your ultimate roofing partner in the greater Puget Sound Area. Contact us today to schedule a free inspection!
TACOMA, WA, September 06, 2020 /24-7PressRelease/ — Local Roofing Contractor Guardian Roofing has made a commitment to go greener and be more environmentally friendly into 2020 and beyond. The Auburn based company has recycled 370 tons (that’s 740,000 lbs.) since the start of the new year and they have no plans to stop. “Most of us at Guardian are outdoor enthusiasts,” say’s Guardian President Lori Swanson. “We love being in nature and want to ensure we do our part to keep the earth healthy and sustainable.”
By partnering with DTG Recycling (the largest commercial recycler of construction, industrial and manufacturing waste in the PNW) Guardian is able to lessen their environmental footprint. The materials recycled range from basic cardboard and plastics, all the way to asphalt shingles, shake, metal, and tile. Sorting of these materials sends them to their respective destinations; wood shingles and shakes become fuel for mills, old cardboard remade into new cardboard, brick and asphalt shingles can be repurposed for the paving of roads, and plastics, depending on their type can be recycled into new plastic, or reborn as clothing through DTG’s own Planet Obsessed clothing line.
Taking their commitment to recycling a step further, Guardian has earned Owen’s Corning “Pink Goes Green” accreditation by pledging to keep shingle and shingle materials out of landfills. “Guardian doesn’t just want to extend the life of your roof,” says Swanson. “We want to extend the life of the earth as well. By changing our practices maybe we can contribute to a greener future.”
Guardian Roofing is trusted by homeowners and businesses from Tacoma to Seattle and beyond. As full-service residential roof contractors for repairs, replacement, minor and major roofing projects, Guardian Roofing has established itself as the premier roofing contractor in Seattle and surrounding areas. Founded in 2005, Guardian has helped thousands of clients in Western Washington protect their homes and families. Trust the Roofing Contractor who makes your roof last! Call Guardian today!
Gale force winds. Pouring rain. Golf ball-sized hail. When a storm blows in over Puget Sound, we all know our homes better be ready for it. One of the keys to always keeping your home prepared is preventative maintenance. Here’s how you can stay ahead of the next storm with a well-maintained roof.
Routine maintenance is the most effective way to extend the lifespan of your roof, and help it get through major storms unscathed. This is especially true in a region known for drastic temperature fluctuations, ample rainfall, and abundant tree coverage.
Storms often come with high winds and even hail. They can send leaves, twigs, and tree limbs crashing onto your roof. If it happens, you’ll sleep more soundly knowing your roof has been properly maintained and looked after. It’s also a good idea to have your roof looked at by a professional after a big storm to make sure it didn’t receive any hard to spot damage.
When you contact a roofing professional for a maintenance visit, don’t forget to ask them what their services include. A good company will perform a thorough inspection and will be upfront about exactly what they will be looking for. Scheduling a roof inspection and maintenance visit from a trusted roofing contractor should include:
Roof maintenance can be done any time your roof needs it, and if your roof is over 5 years old and hasn’t been checked recently, then the sooner you schedule your roof for an inspection the better.
Otherwise, it is generally recommended homeowners have roof maintenance done at least once a year, although twice is preferable. Early spring and late fall are the ideal seasons for this, for a variety of reasons:
One of the most important aspects of roof maintenance is working with a qualified, experienced roofing contractor who understands the challenges faced by homes in coastal Washington. Working with the same trusted contractor over and over again also allows them to get to know you and your roof, which helps them take better care of it.
Contact Guardian Home today to learn more about working with us. Our founders have 60 years’ combined roofing experience and our team is committed to providing the best craftsmanship and customer service in the greater Puget Sound area.
It truly has been a beautiful August and I feel blessed to have been able to spend several weekends outside in nature. While the events of the last several months have been unexpected to say the least, they have forced me to think about what I hold most dear and how I spend my energy. This time of reflection has brought about a renewed appreciation for my health, my family & friends, my team, and my clients. Thank you for your support of Matt, myself, and all of the Team here at Guardian. We want you to know that your overall satisfaction and safety continue to be our top priorities and we look forward to serving you throughout 2020 and beyond. I encourage to get outside and enjoy the last days of August, one of the most beautiful months here in the PNW!
By Guardian Roofing
Like most things, the roof over your head needs maintenance to keep working at peak performance.
Guardian Roofing not only installs new roofing and new roof replacements, the company sets itself apart by offering curative services for each stage of your roof’s lifecycle…
Guardian is excited to welcome English Bryant to the Team as our new Sales Coordinator!
With almost 10 years of retail and sales experience she’s excited to bring her knowledge and skills to the Guardian Team where she will aid customer’s in securing funds for their dream roof!
When she’s not in the office she enjoys spending time with her husband Jake and her Golden Retriever named Mashed Potatoes and will look forward to being able to travel again in the future.
Book a roof replacement before August 31st 2020 and we’ll send you a FREE top-of-the-line Austin Air Purifier, valued at over $800!
Enjoy fresh air inside and outside of your home!
Woohoo! Another Great Review-
“Very thankful Guardian Roofing helped with our metal roof. After being told by several roofing companies they dont work with metal roofs. The company was very responsive and came out right away and let us know what we needed to do. Was very professional and didnt push any unnecessary fixes on us. Would highly recommend and will use this company in the future.”
We are so grateful for our customer reviews. A kind review is one of the greatest gifts the Guardian team can receive from a client. Each month we reward three clients for their positive accolades.
This month, we are rewarding Adele T., Faith P., and Michael S. Be on the lookout for a amazon gift card to arrive in your email inbox soon!
Are the kiddos schooling from home these days! Running out of things for them to do?
Have them draw their roof! Print out the page below and have your little ones fill in their roof! Post their masterpiece to our Guardian Facebook Page and we’ll include it in September’s newsletter!
Happy July My Friends!
I hope you are enjoying what has proven to be a warm month after all! I don’t know about you, but I’m thrilled to see the sunshine after such a rainy June!
This month has flown by for the Team here at Guardian! Not only did we finish the 2nd and final Halo Project for the Year, but we have also been putting together services with your health and home in mind!
Keep on reading to learn more about what Guardian Roofing and Pest Control can do for you!
Guardian Halo Project #2 is a wrap! We are so excited to announce that Recipient Andrea B. of Issaquah WA is the owner of a brand new roof! We are so proud of our team who gathered together to work on Andrea’s roof!
We couldn’t ask for a better team and better recipients in 2020! Stay tuned on our Halo Project page to see videos of the 2 special projects!
If you know of worthy homeowner in need of a major roof repair or total replacement, consider nominating them for the Halo Project! The nomination platform will reopen in November 2020!
We understand that right now, your health and the health of your home is your #1 priority! That’s why we are excited to introduce you to our Health of Your Home Department, a series of services focused not only the health of your home, but the health of you and your loved ones as well.
One way to better support your health is to limited exposure to toxic or polluted elements. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, indoor air quality is among the top 5 environmental risks to public health. And considering the average American spends up to 87% of their life indoors, that adds up to a ton of indoor air exposure! While there are many contributing factors to poor air quality, improper roof/attic ventilation and airborne contaminants from pest infestations play a large part and are often overlooked. comes to comes to the health of your home and family, Guardian Roofing and Pest Control is on your side. Since 2005 we’ve been home health experts, helping homeowners protect their properties, families, and wallets.
If you feel like the health of your home is up in the air, call us today to schedule an inspection. We’re standing by, ready to help improve your home’s health, from the attic to the crawlspace!
Book a roof replacement before August 31st 2020 and we’ll send you a FREE top-of-the-line Austin Air Purifier, valued at over $800!
Enjoy fresh air inside and outside of your home!
Watch the video below to find out why homeowners love working with Guardian!
Woohoo! Another Great Review-
“Joe was informed, professional and nice. He presented me with three difference options on what I was wanting done. No pressure to do any specific option. He was great about answering my questions so I could make an informed decision. Thank you!”.
We are so grateful for our customer reviews. A kind review is one of the greatest gifts the Guardian team can receive from a client. Each month we reward three clients for their positive accolades.
This month, we are rewarding Megan H, Colette B and H.M. Be on the lookout for a amazon gift card to arrive in your email inbox soon!
Last month we asked our readers to send us uplifting stories of positivity and goodwill found in their local communities. Right off the bat one of our clients encouraged us to check out Lisa Gillotti and Build a Bus Home, a not-for-profit project that provides basic hygiene services to low income individuals living in Thurston County. We had the opportunity to speak with Lisa and learn more about the Build A Bus Home Project and how it got started. Cutting straight to the issue, Lisa explained how the lack of affordable housing in Olympia, Yelm, and surrounding cities is adding to the surge of homelessness. In it’s original form, BABH was designed to act as a mobile lounge and business center for those in need, but since the outbreak of Covid-19, Lisa and her team have shifted their focus to provide hygiene based services like mobile showers and sinks. By giving a retired Fire Department Shower Trailer new life, BABH is able to provide the homeless community of Thurston county with 6 separate shower stalls, all socially distanced for the user’s safety and privacy. To further promote cleanliness guests are provided with a personal bottle of Briotech gifted by Briotech.Inc, one of BABH primary sponsors.
The impact Lisa and Build A Bus Home has had on the community is astronomical in value! Not only are they providing people within the community with the gift of a warm shower and hot water, but they are helping stop the spread of potential disease and illness. This non-profit doesn’t plan to stop with just providing mobile shower stalls- they are actively seeking funding to complete the renovation of the lounge and business center bus. Lisa’s long term goal is to bring much-sought-after resources into a central place, making it easier for people obtain the services they need without having to travel long distances.
To learn more about Build A Bus Home visit their Facebook page or website.
We love hearing inspirational stories like Lisa’s! If you know of someone who has a story worth sharing, please email m.roth@yourguardianroof.com with the details!
