Archive for date: September 12, 2012

Although it is true that your roofing style will certainly not be the first thing you pick out when designing your home, it is undeniable that the design of your roof is extremely important to your home’s overall look and feel. Roofs come in a wide array of types and styles, and your roof of choice can dramatically change your home’s appeal; it can even make it look like a different home altogether. For that reason, you need to be considerate of the decisions you make when it comes to your roof’s design. Want to know some of your options? Here are the three most popular roofing designs:
Gable roof. This is easily the most common type of roof. It is also the easiest to build. A gable roof is a simple structure created by adjoining two roof lines at an obtuse angle (think of a wide, upside-down V). For houses that are not square or rectangular in shape (L-shaped homes, for example), two or more gable roofs may converge. There a many benefits to having a gable roof; namely, water runs off easily and there is plenty of ventilation. This design may be applied to any type or style of home.
A-frame roof. This style is very similar to the gable roof. It is basically the same thing, except the two roof lines are joined at a smaller angle, creating a more defined upside-down V shape (or, an A | hence the design’s name). The difference between an A-frame roof and a gable roof is that, with an A-frame roof, the roof also creates the walls of the home. Originally used solely in the design of cottages, the A-frame is now a popular roofing choice for houses of all types.
Hip roof. Again, the gable roof may be considered the basis for this type of roof. The difference is that, with a hip roof, the ends (where you would normally see the upside-down V shape) are capped off at an angle, creating a triangle shape (with the point at the top). Hip roofs are appropriate for any style home, but are a little more difficult to construct than the previously mentioned roof types. They are not the best roof style for ventilation or water drainage; however, they are considered a higher-end roof, as they are more complex than many alternative styles.
There is a lot to think about when it comes to caring for your roof. Experienced professionals can advise you on the best ways to maintain your roof. To put your roofing project into the hands of a contractor you can trust, contact Legacy Roofing. We can be reached by phone, at 720-541-5000, or by email:[email protected]

If you are in the market for a new roof, then you already are asking “How Much should you spend for a new roof?” know that a new roof is a big expenditure. However, what you may not know is that the small choices you make here and there can dramatically impact your cost. How much should you spend for a new roof? Here are some things to consider:
Roofing material. The type of roofing material you choose will have a great impact on the overall cost of your roof, as roofing materials vary drastically in price from one to the other. For example, asphalt shingles may cost you $75 a square foot, while slate can cost you upwards of $2000 a square foot.
Other materials. In addition to the roofing material itself, there are other materials associated with the job of roofing that you will have to consider. The type and quality of underlayment, fasteners, flashing, starter strip, and more will determine part of the cost of your new roof. Be sure to ask your contractor about these materials, as well as for guidance on how to cut some costs in that area without undermining quality.
Complexity of the job. Are you replacing an old roof? If that is the case, then you will have to either tear away the old to make way for the new, or install the new roof over the old. If you must remove an old roof first, you can count on having to spend more in labor costs. Also, consider the type and style of your roof. The more cuts, planes, and angles there are, the more you can expect to spend on your new roof. Additionally, if you need new ventilation, gutters, or other options, you will have to pay more for it. All of these things will be factored into the labor cost for the project. Therefore, when you get bids, make sure all of the job’s complexities are outlined thoroughly, and in plain language.
Labor. When it comes to choosing a roofing contractor, it pays to shop around. If you do your homework, you will find that labor costs can vary greatly from contractor to contractor. Generally speaking, you can expect to pay anywhere from $65 to $350 per square foot for labor. While you should never use labor cost alone as the sole determining factor when choosing a contractor, you should definitely choose the lowest bid out of the contractors you deem to be worthy for the job.
There is a lot to think about when it comes to caring for your roof. Experienced professionals can advise you on the best ways to maintain your roof. To put your roofing project into the hands of a contractor you can trust, contact Legacy Roofing. We can be reached by phone, at 720-541-5000, or by email:[email protected]

Replacing a roof is a fairly hefty expenditure. For that reason, people often put it off for as long as possible. Unfortunately, there are some circumstances in which you should replace your roof right away, no matter what, and whether you want to or not. Do you fit into this category? Here are three ways to know you need a new roof:
Dips in the roof. It is easy to spot dips in the roof if you back far enough away from your house and look carefully. Dips in the roof are exactly what they sound like: areas in the roof that are dipping below other areas. They are often indicative of either rot or water swell in the foundation of the roof | both signs that it is time to replace your home’s topper. Also, remember that your entire roof should be one flat surface. Otherwise, your roofing material will have a hard time holding and it will be easy for puddles of moisture to build up. For this variety of reasons, you should consider replacing your roof if it is dipping.
Damaged shingles. Shingles that are curling up generally indicate that a roof has reached the end of its life. This is because it is easiest (and most likely) for shingles to curl when they have lost the entirety of their UV coating. You also need to pay attention to the amount of granules your shingles are losing. If it is an excessive amount, then that is a tell-tale sign that your old shingles need to be replaced for new ones.
Leaks. You may be able to stretch the life of a leaky roof with repairs, but if you notice that the leaks seem to be larger, or multiplying, it is likely that you will need to replace your roof altogether. Keep in mind that some leaks are easier to spot than others. While a puddle in the floor is obvious, you also need to be on the lookout for discolorations on your ceiling. Any brown spots are indicative of moisture, which could be coming from a leaky roof.
There is a lot to think about when it comes to caring for your roof. Experienced professionals can advise you on the best ways to maintain your roof. To put your roofing project into the hands of a contractor you can trust, contact Legacy Roofing. We can be reached by phone, at 720-541-5000, or by email:[email protected]

Are you looking How to know what type of roof to choose for your home?There are numerous factors to consider when purchasing a new roof. For that reason, the decision can be a confusing one, especially if you don’t know where to begin. Need some guidance?

Here are tips for how to know what type of roof to choose for your home

Style. The type of home you have will have a lot to do with determining which roof style you should choose, and different roof styles can dramatically alter the appearance of your home. You may choose from a gable, hip, A-frame, flat, or other less common style; additionally, you will need to decide how steep of a pitch you want your roof to be. Consult with a designer or architect to help make these important structural decisions.
Material. There is a variety of roofing materials to choose from, and the material you use will go a long way toward your home’s aesthetic appeal. Consider shingles, wood shake, tile, and metal when weighing out your options. Also, remember that each material may come in an array of colors and textures. Again, ask a designer for guidance if you are having a hard time visualizing your choices.
Cost. Each type of roofing material comes at a different price point. Asphalt shingles are by far the least expensive roofing material you can choose. Slate is the most expensive. Although cost should not be your deciding factor, it is definitely something you want to consider when weighing out the pros and cons of each type of roof.
Lifespan. It goes without saying that roofs are expensive, and that you will probably want to avoid replacing your roof for as long as possible. Therefore, you need to consider the lifespan of the type of roof you choose . . . and there is a big difference between different materials. For example, you may get over a hundred years out of a slate roof, but only fifteen years out of a cedar roof.
Maintenance. How often do you want to be cleaning your roof? Do you have a lot of overhanging trees that may cause the buildup of debris? Do you live in a humid climate where mildew growth is likely? Are you willing to make small repairs yourself, or will you need to hire a professional? These are all questions you need to consider when weighing out your roofing options, as you will be the one responsible for caring for your roof.

There is a lot to think about when it comes to caring for your roof

Experienced professionals can advise you on the best ways to maintain your roof. To put your roofing project into the hands of a contractor you can trust, contact Legacy Roofing. We can be reached by phone, at 720-541-5000, or by email:[email protected]

Roofs are expensive to begin with. Replacing them can be even more expensive, when you consider the tough job of removing the existing roof to make way for the new one. If you’re a homeowner, then it is in your best interest to avoid a roof replacement for as long as you possibly can. The best way of doing that is to maintain your roof properly. That means cleaning it regularly and repairing it as needed, before small problems erupt into larger, more expensive problems. If you notice that it might be time to pay your roof some TLC, then you will be thrilled to know that fixing a leaky roof is simple enough for you to do yourself. Here is a guide to roof repair in three easy steps:
Find problem areas. Of course, the easiest way to find a roof problem is to identify the source of the leak from the inside of the home. However, you can also easily spot roof problems on the outside of the home, especially if you know what to look for. Carefully examine every row of shingles and look for shingles that are curling up, out of place, or missing altogether. Also, if a shingle comes right off when you pull on it, then it needs to be replaced.
Reshape curled shingles. This part is super easy. Shingles that are curled due to extreme weather conditions are often structurally sound and just need to be reshaped with your hands. If the weather is warm, the shingles should be malleable and fairly easy to bend back into their appropriate shape. During cold weather, shingles become brittle; if this is the case, heat the curled shingles with a blow dryer before reforming them.
Replace damaged shingles. To do this, simply remove any nails that are holding the damaged shingles in place and slide the old shingles out to make way for the new ones. Slide new shingles into place and attach them at the corners (as the previous shingles were attached) using galvanized roofing nails. Cover the back edge of the shingle, as well as the nail heads, with roof cement to seal them and prevent water leakage.
There is a lot to think about when it comes to caring for your roof. Experienced professionals can advise you on the best ways to maintain your roof. To put your roofing project into the hands of a contractor you can trust, contact Legacy Roofing. We can be reached by phone, at 720-541-5000, or by email:[email protected]

The 3 Most Popular Types of Roofing for Your Home

Your roof makes a tremendous impact on your home’s look and feel, although it may very well be one of the last things you think about when making design choices for your home. Regardless of the type and style of your home, there are countless roofing options to choose from, and your decision now will make a lasting impression on everyone who sees your home for years to come. Because roofing is such a big deal, you need to put some serious thought into what you want your roof to say for your home. Need some guidance? Here are the three most popular types of roofing for your home:

Shingles. This is quite possibly the most popular roofing material used today. Whether your home is a traditional plantation style or an ultra modern contemporary style, there is almost an endless variety of shingle types suited to your project. Shingles come in an array of styles, materials, colors, and price points. They can be some of the most inexpensive roofing materials available, and are relatively easy to install and repair. Depending on the type of shingles you choose, they can also be extremely durable, lasting several decades.

Metal roofs. Although traditionally used on old Southern-style homes, this roof type is an increasingly popular choice for homeowners today, for all styles of home. Available in steel, aluminum, or copper, metal roofs are a little pricier than shingles to install, but they require very little maintenance. They can also last for as long as you live in the home, and depending on your choice of material, can change over time to add to a home’s character. It is also good to know that metal roofs can be installed over existing shingles roofs, so it can be much less complicated to choose a metal roof if you are trying to replace an old roof. Just beware that metal roofs can be quite noisy when it rains.

Tile roofs. Generally speaking, this is the more expensive roof to install. However, tile is very durable and can lend your home a distinctive feel that is unmatched by other roof types. This type of roof is prevalent in Mediterranean and South-American style homes, but there are tiles that mimic slate and wood, which work with any of a number of popular housing styles.
There is a lot to think about when it comes to caring for your roof. Experienced professionals can advise you on the best ways to maintain your roof. To put your roofing project into the hands of a contractor you can trust, contact Legacy Roofing. We can be reached by phone, at 720-541-5000, or by email:[email protected]

Are you in the process of making choices for your new roof, and pulling out your hair over the myriad options? If so, then you could definitely benefit from a clear break-down of the different roofing materials available to you. Fortunately, you’ve come to the right place. Here are roofing materials explained:
Shingles. Shingles are the least expensive option you have when it comes to roofing materials, and they come in a wide array of styles and colors. For example, you may choose simple asphalt shingles, plastic polymer shingles that look like slate, or super-thick architectural shingles. While shingles are inexpensive, they also carry the shortest life spans and may require more maintenance and repairs than many alternative materials.
Tile. Generally made of clay (but sometimes concrete), tile is one of the more expensive routes you can take when choosing a roofing material. However, tiles are very durable, and can last fifty years or more. Tile is well suited for Mediterranean or Spanish style housing, but there are also tiles made to look like slate or wood, which would be suitable for any style.
Wood. Wood shingles and shakes are made of rot-resistant wood, and they give a warm, natural look and feel to any home. Wood is in the mid-range when it comes to price, and it requires perhaps the most upkeep of all the roofing materials. Additionally, wood does not carry a very long lifespan and it is not very fire resistant (unless you have it specially treated).
Slate. This is the most expensive roofing material you can go with, but it is also the most durable and long lasting. As a matter of fact, a slate roof’s life span may be one hundred years or more. Slate is very heavy, and is only suitable for steeply pitched roofs. Therefore, you will need to ensure that your home’s foundation walls are strong enough to carry a slate roof before you commit. Your builder or architect can give you guidance in that arena.
Metal. Available in aluminum, steel, copper, or zinc alloy, metal roofing is a mid-range material when it comes to both cost and life span. You may choose to purchase the material in its natural finish, or even to install a sleek, painted version. Either way, metal roofing is a suitable option for virtually any type or style of home.
There is a lot to think about when it comes to caring for your roof. Experienced professionals can advise you on the best ways to maintain your roof. To put your roofing project into the hands of a contractor you can trust, contact Legacy Roofing. We can be reached by phone, at 720-541-5000, or by email:[email protected]
 

Everyone loves the idea of having a maintenance-free roof, and many roofing manufacturers aim to meet that need by offering products that are as low-maintenance as possible. However, regardless of the type of roof you have, the fact of the matter is that you will inevitably have to perform some routine upkeep on your roof if you want it to continue to look and function at its best for as long as possible. What does it take to keep a roof in tip top shape? Here are some tips for the best way to keep your roof clean:
Apply a roof cleaner. You may purchase roof cleaner from any home improvement store. It is likely that you may have to mix it with water before applying it. Just follow the manufacturer’s instructions, mixing in an insecticide sprayer or power washer. If you can, climb up onto your roof so that you can be sure to give it a thorough spray. If you do decide to use a power washer, be sure to use it on an extremely low pressure setting, so as not to damage your roofing material. Allow the cleaner to sit on your roof for as long as the manufacturer suggests- usually about 25 minutes.
Rinse the roof cleaner. After you have allowed the roof cleaner to soak for the specified amount of time, rinse the cleaner off using a garden hose or a power washer set to a very low pressure. If there is any mildew or stains left, blast these away using the force of the water, or scrub if necessary.
Clean your gutters. It is likely that there will be a good deal of waste in your gutters after a thorough roof cleaning. Prevent the gutter drains from clogging by removing large debris by hand, then use your garden hose to flush out the remainder of the waste.
Adhere to a regular cleaning schedule. You don’t have to clean your roof all too often, but a cleaning every one to three years is a good idea, if you want to keep your roof looking its best. Also, keep in mind that the better you care for your roof, the more likely you are to see it to its fullest possible life span.
There is a lot to think about when it comes to caring for your roof. Experienced professionals can advise you on the best ways to maintain your roof. To put your roofing project into the hands of a contractor you can trust, contact Legacy Roofing. We can be reached by phone, at 720-541-5000, or by email:[email protected]