Author Archives: Hellenic Roofing

What is the Best Asphalt Shingle?

Would you like to discover more about asphalt shingle roofing? To begin with, it will be important for you to consider your asphalt shingle options. Please review the following examples of asphalt shingles to find out more about this important roofing material.

• 3 Tab Asphalt Shingles. Affordable and stylish, 3 tab shingles are a staple for roofs across America. These particular shingles can be differentiated from architectural shingles due to the fact that they have tabs or cutouts. These are made along their long lower edge. Each tab looks like three separate pieces when they are installed, however, they are part of one whole piece.
• Architectural asphalt shingles. Architectural shingles are generally known to be more durable than 3 tab shingles. They also come in more luxurious roofing options. Architectural shingles can be made to appear like other roofing materials such as wood or slate.
• Different grades of asphalt shingles. There are different grades of asphalt shingles that vacillate between the 3 tab variety and the architectural shingles variety. The best way to find out which asphalt shingles will be best for your residential roof installation is to give your local professional roofing company a call.

What is the Difference Between Architectural Shingles and Asphalt Shingles?

As alluded to previously, there are some significant differences between architectural shingles and asphalt shingles. Three-tab shingles are roofs that are made up of a single shingle tab size that is composed of three separate tabs that are twelve inches wide. In contrast, architectural shingles are distinguished as dimensional or laminate and come in lots of shapes and sizes. As homeowners determine what they want the facade of their home to look like, they have the choice to use different colors and shapes for their home exterior. A nice roof can add both curb appeal and increased home value.

How Long Do Asphalt Shingles Last?

Are you wondering how long asphalt shingles last? The answer is quite positive. Asphalt shingle roofs are both affordable and can last about twenty years. With a proper roof installation with good tools and materials, asphalt shingle roofs can have increased longevity. Over the years, it will be important to secure regular roof inspections and roof repairs as necessary. Storms can ravage all roofs, including asphalt shingle roofs, which is why it’s important to get a proper roofing company to help you with storm damage repairs. Your homeowner’s insurance can generally help with such repairs.

Is it Ok to Put New Shingles Over Old?

While it may seem tempting to place new asphalt roof shingles over old shingles, it is not advisable. This is because shingles are heavy. Placing unnecessary weight on the roof of your home will negatively impact the framework of the home. If you don’t need the old shingles, it is important to have them professionally removed before the re-roofing process begins. Old asphalt shingles can be recycled in the right circumstances. To find out more about the re-roofing process, and whether your old shingles can be recycled, please be sure to contact your local professional roofing company.

Who Buys Recycled Asphalt Shingles

Are you actively looking to recycle your old asphalt shingles? You are in luck. In many cases, shingle recycling is available in most major markets in America. As a matter of fact, new sites are continuing to open for recycled asphalt shingles. Additionally, there are multiple resources for finding an asphalt shingle recycler online. In order to find out more, a simple internet search should yield results.

Where are Asphalt Shingles Made

Asphalt shingles are made, predominantly, in North America. Whether the shingles are black, red, green or orange, they are all made in the same way. Asphalt shingles are made in a continuous web process that uses a shortlist of raw materials.

Where to Start Asphalt Shingles

When you are installing asphalt shingles, you can start by laying a narrow row of shingles at the bottom of the roof along the edge. After that, a roofer can lay down the first row of shingles to that they are covering the starter row. After that, you can lay your shingles horizontally on the roof.

Are you shopping for asphalt shingles? Our friendly operators at Hellenic Roofing & Construction are available now at 832-704-2817 to schedule your installation or repair for asphalt shingles in Spring, TX.

Imagine a rainstorm and the wind is blowing; the rain is pouring down. The shingles keep the rain off out of your house, blowing rain and wind would run down the walls interior if the roof flashing wasn’t there keeping the rain moving on down the roof and to the gutters. 

Do all roofs have flashing?

If a house doesn’t have roof flashing or has damaged flashing, there is likely water has leaked down the exterior and interior walls, possibly inside the walls. This kind of damage can cascade, going beyond roofing or roof flashing damage. The walls will weaken, the flooring will weaken, and eventually, the roof can begin to sag and sink.

How long should roof flashing last?

With no unexpected acts of nature or accidents, roof flashing has a life expectancy of up to twenty years. Roof flashing made from high-quality materials with perfect installation has lasted anywhere between fifty years to eighty years. Three reasons why roof flashing and the roofing itself can last longer are:

• Quality of materials
• Quality of installation
• Frequency of inspections and maintenance

By choosing a roofing contractor with a reputable history and solid customer service, you will get the first two things on that list from them. As a homeowner, the inspection and maintenance are up to you to do or schedule to have it done.

Another component of roofing and roof flashing lasting beyond their life expectancy is the use of polyurethane as a flashing sealant. This sealant forms a water and weatherproof bond that is permanent. It fills in any gaps and secures the joins around the protrusions and valleys where the roof flashing is installed.  When it is noticed during a regular inspection, the roof flashing is leaking, this is the product that you want to secure the flashing back in place and stop the leaking.        

Do roofers replace flashing?

The roof of your home is a major investment that protects your home and family. When it comes time to get a new roof, choose a roofer that doesn’t oversell you on the job nor do they cut corners to save a few dollars, like the roof flashing. Most roofing jobs will include roof flashing and trim work. You should verify what is in the estimates you get and confirm if it is an extra charge or included in the price quote.

If you’re getting a new roof, it only makes sense to replace the roof flashing at the same time, unless any of it is in pristine condition. Like the drip edge flashing and the penetration flashing, which comes in ten-foot strips. It should be installed prior to the underlayment and attached to the roof deck.

Your local building code may allow the reuse of roof flashing, but shingle manufacturers recommend always replacing the roof flashing with the new roof. Why? When roof flashing is re-used, there is no way to be certain the nails go in the previous holes, which means you could have leaking roof flashing. For a roof that is older than 15 years, the roofing contractor won’t know if the original roof flashing was installed correctly, has it been patched or replaced, and other concerns.

A manufacturer may state exception in their warranty they must install all new roof flashing with the new roofing. If you get any quotes that do not include new roof flashing, request it be added into the quote using new materials.

How to do a Roof Inspection

What many homeowners want to know is how to do a roof inspection themselves. While we absolutely encourage homeowners to take a look at their roof on their own, personal inspections will never be the same as professional services. That in mind, if you are interested in completing your own roof inspection, there are a few things to look out for.

• Seals and Caulking: One of the first things to look for are the seals. Anywhere there may be a seal, caulking, or even flashing. These are areas that can be prone to leaks or other damages that could result in serious problems for the rest of your home.
• Missing Shingles: An obvious thing to look for is missing shingles. When high winds kick up if there are previously damaged or lose shingles, they can easily be ripped off. This will leave your roof decking exposed to the elements. If this happens during a storm, you’ll likely have a severe leak that you’ll have to deal with.
• Broken, Bent, or Curling Shingles: Sometimes shingles aren’t fully removed from a roof. Instead, they are bent, broken, or so damaged they buckle and curl away from the roof. This is just as serious as if they were completely taken off. These shingles can let water in without you knowing, resulting in expensive leaks.
• Cracked Boots: Around chimney’s and other roofing protrusions usually have a rubber boot around the base. These boots are not everlasting. They can wear down, become cracked, damaged and more. When that happens, you’ll likely have a similar situation to damaged or missing flashing. Water will easily be able to enter the underlying decking and material.
• Moss or Mold: One of the biggest threats to a roofing structure is moss or mold. These can form when bent shingles, as mentioned, are not repaired. Water can get trapped under these sections of roofing and rot the material. The water can also cause mold or moss to grow which will create even more problems for you. 

While this is not a comprehensive roof inspection checklist, it is a great place to start. If you are wanting to know more, connect with the professionals at Hellenic Roofing & Construction. We can help you with a roof inspection for any reason.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is involved in a roof inspection?
  • What’s typically included in an inspection is a variety of services. The contractor will likely examine your roof from the ground level as well as on the structure itself. They’ll take their time to look over all seams and connections to make sure everything is properly maintained. 
• How much does a roof inspection cost?
  • It will depend on the roofer you choose. There are many that offer free inspection services and there are some that charge for it. Those that charge usually ask for about $75-$200 per appointment. 
• Why do I need a roof inspection?
  • The reason you would need an inspection is to determine the source or cause of damage to your home. The most common and needed time for this type of service is right after a major storm. In our area, we can see incredibly high winds, hail and more, all of which can cause serious damage to your roof that you may not be able to see. 
• How often do you need to get a roof inspection?
  • Professional guidelines state that a roof inspection should happen about once every three years. That’s enough time to feel like you aren’t wasting money but that you are also getting the most out of your roof. 
• How do I know if my roof is bad?
  • There may be several signs that you can see on your own. This would be things like missing shingles, granules in gutters, and more. If you are starting to notice these signs, they could be indications of a damaged roof. The best way to know is to schedule an appointment for an inspection. 

Lifting is another result of wind damage to the roof, and from the ground, you wouldn’t know this. This is caused by the suction that high winds create when blowing over the roof and “lift” the shingles up and loosen the nails and break the sealant.

High winds collect and throw debris around and they break off tree limbs, all of which lands on rooftops. A falling limb can puncture your roof and destroy the shingles.  It is important to cut all the trees around your home back to minimize this from happening.

At what wind speed do roofs come off?

You should be concerned to check for wind damage to the roof when the winds reach 45 to 50mph according to the National Weather Service. Today, most homes have a roof rating of 90mph, yet there is not any roofing material on the market that is guaranteed to withstand the winds from hurricanes or tornados. 

Why are roofs blown off during storms?

During severe weather like a hurricane, thunderstorm, or a tornado, winds with high velocity can cause the air pressure to shift and create a suction that will literally raise a roof of the house.

While there are always the stories of a roof being lifted and set back down on a house, in most cases, the roof is carried off by the wind and deposited elsewhere. Sometimes it is deposited on vehicles or other structures, resulting in wind damage to roof and whatever it lands on. 

If the roof of your home is ever blown off, evacuate immediately and contact your insurance company and a roofing contractor. Staying in a house, or any structure, with a missing roof, leaves you vulnerable to a weakened structure that could collapse. 

What happens when wind hits a wall?

No, because air performs like an uninterrupted fluid, it cannot rebound the flow back through itself. It will be displaced sideways, and the front of the wall will have a higher wind pressure.

How do you fix wind damaged shingles?

Having a solid and sound roof is crucial to your home. This keeps you, your family, and your belongings dry and safe. As soon as you realize there is any type of wind damage to the roof, immediate action is needed to keep your roof protected from water seeping under the shingles and into the attic or walls, rotting the sheathing and more.

A roof that is 20 years old or older that has any damaged, loose, or missing shingles should be entirely replaced. However, a roof that is sound and has experienced wind damage to the roof like a damaged, loose or missing shingle, the following steps will temporarily repair it until you have a professional roofing contractor inspect it.

1. Using a flat pry bar, slide it under the damaged or loose shingle and pop out any roofing nails there.
2. Slide new shingle into that place, or a piece of metal or wood will suffice, making sure it is lined up with the other shingles around it.
3. Carefully secure the new or replacement shingle with roofing nails as you lift the upper shingle.

How do I know if my roof is bad?

One way you’ll know is when there is water dripping, or pouring, through the ceiling. Hopefully, you’ll see one of the following signs before that happens though:

1. Loose or missing shingles: This can happen after a round of high winds or it can be the result of storm damage. This also happens when a roof has reached or exceeded its life expectancy. Loose or missing shingles lessens the protection value a roof should provide your home, and is more obvious with wood shake roofing. If the loose or missing shingles result from storms, check with your homeowner’s insurance agent for a roof replacement with an insurance claim.
2. Blistered, cracked, curling, or dried shingles: Any of these can indicate normal wear and tear of a roof, they are typical indicators of a roof that has reached its life expectancy and a roof replacement is needed sooner than later. A roof is exposed to the climate and elements 24/7/365, meaning it takes a lot of abuse. High humid weather can speed up blistering if there isn’t adequate ventilation in the attic.
3. Sagging roof: A sagging roof is a strong indicator that a roof replacement is needed immediately. It indicates the roof is deteriorating and weak, which can be caused by a few different things, one being the last roof replacement job was not installed properly. Houses that are in climates where there is a lot of ice and snow can cause a roof to sag from too much weight sitting on it for an extended time.  
4. Dark stains: Dark stains are typical when shingle granules begin falling off, an indication that the roof has reached its prime. Dark patches also can be algae, lichen, or moss growths that need to be professional washed off to stop them from eating the shingles.
5. Gutters filled with granules: Over time, the shingles on your roof will lose granules. When the downspouts and gutters start having too many granules, it is time for a roof replacement.
6. Loose or exposed nails: If you notice nails are popping up, this means there are holes in the shingles that will allow water to penetrate to the underlayment, work its way to the attic, and create a leak.
7. Water damage: If you notice wet spots on the ceiling or any walls, or during a routine inspection you notice wet spots in the attic, a roof replacement may be needed. These are indications that water is leaking through the shingles or the ventilation is not enough in the attic to keep the moisture out.
8. Damaged or missing flashing: Flashing is an important feature for a roof for areas where the roof intersects, like around the chimney, HVAC and plumbing piping, or the roof pitch changes. When there are loose or missing pieces, the roof is missing an important sealant and water can penetrate in those areas, creating a leak.
9. Cooling and heating bills increase: This indicates that attic ventilation is inadequate. A leaking roof that you’ve not noticed yet may damage it, or there isn’t proper ventilation.
10. The 20^th anniversary of last roof replacement: Most asphalt shingle roofs have an expected life of 20 to 25 years. By the time your roof reaches its 20^th anniversary, it is time to get quotes on roof replacement. If you aren’t sure of the roof’s age, any of the things we’ve talked about in this article are what you need to work within considering roof replacement.

Can you replace a roof yourself?

With basic common sense, a good hammer, a few boxes of roofing nails, and simple gabled roofing, you can most likely do a decent, fair job. The question you need to ask yourself is, should you? Whether you’re looking a total roof replacement or making a few repairs like replacing loose or missing shingles, it will require climbing up a ladder. The danger in climbing a ladder alone is enough to reconsider this, then when you consider you’ll be carrying supplies too, it gets trickier.

There is also the question of why there are loose or missing shingles, or why there is one area of the roof sagging. There could be extensive damage that the untrained eye can’t see. Hiring a professional roofing contractor is always the best way to go. The unknown that is unattended can cause you more damage, headache, and money later if not addressed at the same time. 

How long does a new roof take? 

The process of a residential roof replacement is labor-intensive. The time to install a new roof will depend on several factors:

• The size of the house
• Various roof angles
• The weather
• The unexpected, i.e., repairs beyond the roof itself such as the attic

Can you live in a house while the roof is replaced?

Basic roof replacement jobs typically take a few days, so remaining in the house isn’t an issue. You need to know that there will be dirt, dust, and a lot of loud noises. Depending on the occupants in your home, these are things to consider. 

Infants and small children need to be watched with extra care. If you have pets, a roof replacement job could make them anxious with all the noise and strangers around the house. If there are any occupants with breathing issues, the dirt and dust could aggravate that.   

You should also take precautions by covering your furniture and putting away any valuables that could get accidentally broken, like china, family heirlooms, and pictures, etc. Place your outdoor furniture away from the house and cover any landscaping that could be damaged.

Most roofing contractors will take into consideration roof replacement and rain possibilities when scheduling jobs. They follow the weather forecast closely and schedule jobs accordingly. Though the weather can be unpredictable, you should have a back-up plan in case inclement weather and your roof replacement job overlap each other. 

• Longevity: Depending on the type of metal roof that you get, metal roofing can last anywhere from 40 to 70 years.
• Resilient: Again the metal material will determine that sturdiness of a roof, but most metal roofs can withstand strong winds, fire, corrosion, and cracks.
• Sustainable: Not only are metal roofs made up of recyclable materials but by the end of their lifespan, they can be completely recycled.
• Safe: Because they are able to to stand up to severe weather and fires, this is a very safe roofing option.
• Cooling: A lot of people ask, “Do metal roofs keep house cooler?” and the answer is yes. Because metal roofs have a reflective material, then can reflect the sun off the roof, which makes the inside of homes a lot cooler.

Metal roofs have a lot of great benefits, but a lot of homeowners still ask, “Is a metal roof worth the cost?” One way to decide is to ask yourself if you are planning on being in your home for a long time. If you think that you will sell your home within the next couple of years, then you might not want to invest in metal roofing. However, because a metal roof installation does increase the value of your home, then it might be worth it when you sell. If you think that your home is your forever home, then why not invest in this type of roofing system?

Is It Cheaper to Get a Metal Roof Or Shingle Roof?

As stated before, one of the most common roofing systems that are used on homes is asphalt shingles. When considering a roof, many homeowners will most likely consider this type of roof. If you are interested in metal roofing but asphalt shingles also sound good, then most people will look at the cost of both. In metal roofing vs asphalt shingles cost, which one is cheaper? Asphalt shingles are definitely the least expensive out of the two, with metal roofing being significantly more expensive. However, you have to remember that metal roofs also last up to 40 or 40 years; asphalt shingles on the other hands only last 20 to 25 years at the most. Sure you will spend less money upfront for asphalt shingles, but they aren’t going to last as long as metal roofing. So is metal roofing the best? Again, you do need to consider if a metal roof installation is worth it based on how long you plan on staying in your home.

What Is the Cheapest Metal Roofing?

For homeowners who are interested in metal roofing, you might be wondering what is the more affordable metal roof that you can get installed. As far as affordability, galvalume steel is the clear winner. There are a couple of steel metal roofs to choose from, like stone coated, galvanized, galvalume, and stainless steel, but out of all of them, galvalume steel roofing is the most affordable. Another cost-effective option is aluminum roofing, but its still more expensive than galvalume steel. The most expensive metal roofs on the market are copper, stainless steel, and zinc. Cost is a big factor when choosing a roofing system, but you should also look at the other components that different metal roofs can offer. Even when a roof is cheaper, that doesn’t mean that its better.

Metal Roof Installation On House

Tile roofs are just one kind of premium roofing in Spring, TX that Hellenic Roofing & Construction offers. To find out more about our roofing services call 832-704-2817. 

What is the best roof tile to use?

If you are planning to install a tile roof, you’ll have several types of roof tiles to choose from. Each type of roof tile has its advantages and disadvantages.

Different types of tile roofs:

• Clay or ceramic: These roof tiles are fireproof and good for moderate to high-sloped roofs. Though low maintenance, they can be brittle and prone to breakage.
• Concrete: Highly durable, these roof tiles are some of the most common on the market today. Requires a roof structure that can support the heavy weight.
• Metal: Metal can be shaped into roofing tiles of all shapes and styles. They are lighter weight than concrete or slate tiles.
• Slate: Though among the most durable of roof tiles, slate is also heavy and expensive. Installing slate will require a roof structure strong enough to support its weight.
• Synthetic: A lighter weight and less expensive alternative to slate, synthetic tiles are just as durable as their stone counterparts. 

Are tile roofs better than shingles?

When replacing or installing a new roof, you’ll have plenty of options available for materials, though most commonly for homes, the decision comes down between roof tiles vs. shingles. When deciding between the two, you’ll have to weigh their advantages and disadvantages. One of the most noticeable differences between shingles and tile will be initial cost of installation. Overall, it’s much cheaper to install a shingle roof than it is a tile roof. 

Tile roofs, however, will generally last longer than shingle roof. How many years does a tile roof last? You can expect to replace a shingle roof within about 20 to 25 years, whereas a tile roof can last anywhere between 50 to 100 years, depending on the material used and how well the roof is maintained. Tile roofs are also generally low maintenance, and can generally withstand harsher weather conditions than shingles. 

While they last longer, tile roofs are also heavier than shingle roofs, which may prohibit some roofing structures from supporting them. In other cases, the cost of installation may increase if the roofing structure has to be improved to support the weight of the roof tiles. 

Roof tiles energy efficiency

While tile roofs are valued for their beauty and durability, they are also advantageous when it comes to energy efficiency. The materials used have a natural resistant to heat, which is why they are often seen in warmer climates. But, the way they are layered on your roof helps with roof ventilation because natural air spaces are developed. This natural ventilation, research has shown, can reduce heat transfer from the roof deck to the attic by 70%.

Energy efficiency is also affected by how well-maintained your HVAC system is. If you have an American Standard air conditioner, it may require American Standard AC repair for good maintenance.

Which is better clay or concrete roof tiles?

While there are several types of roof tiles to choose from, most homeowners will usually decide concrete roof tiles vs clay. In general, both types of tile will usually outlast and outperform other roofing materials, each type has various advantages and disadvantages to consider. If cost is a consideration, concrete tiles usually cost about 30% less than clay tiles. While clay tiles tend to cost more than concrete tiles, concrete tiles tend to weigh more, so the roof’s structure will have to support the extra weight. Both types of roof tiles are very durable and aesthetically pleasing, although clay tiles may be more prone to breakage under certain conditions. Both are also highly fire resistant, and both help protect the roof from leaks. 

When it comes to tile roofing and affordable roof tiles in Spring, TX, check with the professionals at Hellenic Roofing & Construction. Find out how we can help with all your roofing needs by calling 832-704-2817.

Roof restoration v. replacement

• Lower cost: Roof restoration costs much less than a replacement.
• Extends roof’s life: If your roof is in good repair, the restoration can add 15 or more years to the roof’s life expectancy.
• Sustainable: There is no waste material because the roof is not removed.
• Less intrusive: The restoration is less time consuming that a replacement and less likely to disrupt business operations.
• Seamless: The roof coatings are seamless, which helps protect the roof from problems like leaks.

If you are thinking of getting a roof restoration and looking for a roof restoration service in Spring, TX, we are the professionals to call at 832-704-2817.

How long does a roof restoration take?

Now that you’ve contracted a roof restoration service, you’ll want to know how long the roof restoration will take. Usually, the restoration will take no more than 2 to 3 days, depending on the size of the roof and the weather. At Hellenic Roofing & Construction, we ensure minimal disruption to business operations.

How long does a roof restoration last?

A full roof restoration, when properly applied by a roof restoration service, should last anywhere between 15 to 20 years, and the roof coating can be reapplied after that time frame has passed. The coating’s lifespan will depend on sun exposure and other problems like mold or mildew growth.

How long do roof coatings last?

As noted, roof coatings should last anywhere between 15 to 20 years but may be affected by sun exposure or mold and mildew growth. Some coatings like silicone will prevent problems like mold and mildew growth.

Should I paint my roof?

It is possible to paint your roof though certain precautions need to be taken, especially with material like asphalt shingles. When you paint shingles, they tend to wear out faster than if they were left unpainted and they will need to be repainted about avery 5 to 7 years. Paint also fades quickly and puts your roof at risk for moisture problems, especially mold, algae, and mildew growth.

What is involved in a roof restoration?

When you get your roof restored by a roof restoration service like Hellenic Roofing & Construction, the roofers will go through a detailed process. The first step is to inspect the roof to check for any damage or other problems that may need to be repaired or taken care of before the roof coating is applied. Following that, the roof is thoroughly cleaned and any repairs are made. The roof is then sealed to prepare for the coating application. The final step is for the roof coating to be applied.

Because many commercial buildings have their air conditioners on their roofs, before you get a roof restoration, you may want to get AC maintenance to make sure your AC is working properly.

Roof restoration is it worth it

If your roof is in good condition and has been well maintained, a roof restoration performed by a professional roof restoration service can prove to be worthwhile. Getting your roof replaced can be an expensive and disruptive process. On the other hand, a roof restoration is low cost, takes very little time and causes little disruption. At the same time, your old roof gets its life extended for anywhere between about 10 to 20 years. Once that time frame has passed, the roof coating can be reapplied to extend your roof’s life another few years. As long as the roof is in good shape, you can benefit from a roof restoration.

Additionally, in warmer climates especially, the roof coatings help cool your roof. The coatings are highly reflective and decrease the amount of heat transferred to your building. This will improve your overall energy efficiency.

If you are looking for quality roof restoration in Spring, TX, we are the roof restoration service to call. We can be reached at 832-704-2817 to schedule services.

When your roof is aging, instead of a roof replacement, you may consider a low-cost roof restoration instead. If you are interested in roof restoration and need a reliable roof restoration service in Spring, TX, then give our team a call at 832-704-2817.

Energy efficient roofing has become a buzzword in construction, as more and more homeowners and commercial structure owners have begun to appreciate the possibility of saving money on their bills. This makes sense, as energy costs continue to steadily rise. More people have also become cognizant of the environmental benefits of energy efficient structures, and want to do their part to help the planet. To have a fully energy efficient structure, however, requires attention to a few different areas. Components that contribute to energy efficiency include low-e windows and proper insulation, even in the attic. You will also need aenergy efficient appliances, along with efficient HVAC elements such as a Day and Night heating system.

Arguably the biggest contributor to energy efficiency, however, is your roof. A roof spends all day baking in the sun. Throughout this time, it will either absorb all this heat and radiate it down into the structure; or it will reflect the heat away from the structure. The latter type of roof represents an energy efficient choice. If you’d like to learn more or schedule installation of energy efficient roofing in Spring, TX, call 832-704-2817 today for the team at Hellenic Roofing & Construction.

What Is Energy Efficient Roofing?

Energy efficient roofing performs two functions. Throughout the hotter time of the year, when businesses and homes everywhere run their air conditioners nearly non-stop, energy efficient roofing reflects the heat of the sun. This leads to a cooler indoor environment, which lessens the demand on air conditioners. In this way, an energy efficient roof saves money, and lowers a structure’s energy demands. This means fewer emissions, and a smaller carbon footprint. Ideally, energy efficient roofs will have a positive impact in the winter, as well. A properly insulated attic and a roof with quality underlayment will prevent the loss of heat, thus lessening a structure’s demand on its furnace.

Rebates for Energy Efficient Roofing

Many homeowners are surprised to learn about the existence of tax credits for roofing. If you install energy efficient roofing, as defined in the government’s outline for roofing tax credits, you could receive savings up to 10 percent of the roof’s cost. In order to qualify for this, however, your roof must meet certain conditions. The basic rules require that:

• The Property Is Your Primary Residence
• The Property Is NOT New Construction or a Rental
• You’ve Installed a Reflective Roof
• You’ve Achieved This Without the Use of a Roof Coating

For homeowners, the two most common ways to gain this credit come through the installation of either a certified Energy Star metal roof, or the install of asphalt shingles that feature a pigmented coating or cooling granules. Commercial structure owners can explore the availability of credits for the installation of a cool roof. Aside from federal tax credits, building owners should also check for credits on the state or local level.

Energy Efficient Roofing Options

In answer to the question of what is the most energy efficient roof color, the only correct answer is “white.” Just as white clothing will keep you cool on a hot summer day, a white roof will reflect a great percentage of sunlight to keep a structure cooler and more comfortable. Many types of roofing materials, even asphalt shingles are now available in white. Coloration does not represent the be-all, end-all of energy efficient roofing, however. Certain roof systems, known as cool roofs, are specially manufactured with energy efficiency in mind. If you want the most energy efficient roofing option currently available, you will choose either a TPO or PVC roofing membrane.

While they are certainly the most effective available option, TPO and PVC are not the only energy efficient roofs available. A complete list of energy efficient roofing materials would include:

• TPO
• PVC
• White EPDM
• Metal
• Specialized Shingles, such as Owens Corning Shasta White
• Concrete Tile

Another way to achieve a cool roof is through the application of an elastomeric roof coating. There exist four different types of elastomeric roof coatings — silicone, acrylic, butyl, and polyurethane — and each comes with its own specific benefits. Any elastomeric coating, however, will reflect a great percentage of UV radiation. They will also expand and contract with temperature changes, a feature that prevents their degradation in extreme heat or cold.

Energy Efficient Efficient Roofing FAQ

What Is the Most Cost Effective Roofing?

This depends on many different factors, including what you mean by “cost effective.” From one perspective, the most cost effective roofing would be the type of roofing with the highest durability and longest lifespan, since it would save you money on repairs and replacement. If this explains your criteria, then the clear winner would be slate tile, since it can last for 100 years or more. At the same time, slate tile is the most expensive roofing material you can buy. For many people, this fact would not jive with their definition of “cost efficiency.”

If you’re looking for a roofing material that is cheap and provides decent service, you would go with traditional asphalt shingles. Three tab shingles are the cheapest roofing material you can buy, and will last for 15 to 20 years. However, basic shingles are among the least energy efficient roofing materials, as they soak up heat like a sponge and radiate it downward into a structure. Overall, metal would serve as a good nominee for most cost effective roofing. Metal has an excellent lifespan of 40 years or more, is cheaper than slate tile, and reflects a large portion of the sun’s heat.

Does a White Roof Save Energy?

Yes. Just as with white clothing, a white roof will reflect heat and lessen the energy demands on air conditioners.

Are Metal Roofs More Energy Efficient?

Metal roofs are very energy efficient. They achieve this naturally thanks to their reflective surface, which directs heat away from a structure.

Which Is Better, a Metal Roof or Shingles?

In terms of energy efficiency, metal roofing greatly outclasses typical asphalt shingles. Metal roofing also lasts at least twice as long, and typically longer, without the need for roof replacement. Also, metal roofing is highly durable, and resists damage to a much greater degree than asphalt shingle roofing. At the end of the day, the only ways in which asphalt shingles outshine metal roofing are pricing and appearance. Asphalt shingles represent the cheapest roofing option on the market, whereas metal is one of the more expensive. As for appearance, many people prefer the traditional look of shingles to the shine of metal.

Are Metal Roofs Noisy?

Contrary to popular belief, metal roofs are not noisy in the least. Roofing system technology has come a long way since the days of tin roofs. Today’s metal roofing systems benefit from underlayment materials that buffer out noise.

At Hellenic Roofing & Construction, we are the local experts for Spring, TX metal roofing. If you’ve settled on metal roofing in your search for an energy efficient option, we can provide impeccable service with installation and repairs. To learn more about the types of metal roofing we offer, or to schedule service, give us a call today at 832-704-2817. The team at Hellenic Roofing & Construction is the local source for energy efficient roofing in Spring, TX.