Author Archives: Hellenic Roofing

The Ability to Reflect Heat from the Sun Distinguishes Energy Efficient Roofing.

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

TPO and PVC Are Probably the Most Energy Efficient Roofing Choices.

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?

Metal Has Natural Reflectivity That Makes it an Excellent Option for Energy Efficiency.

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.

When Heavy Winds and Hail Strike Your Roof, Will it Be Ready?

Have you ever had the unfortunate experience of dealing with a long-term roof leak? It’s not pretty. On top of having to fix roofing itself, you also have to deal with the consequences beneath the surface, which include:

• Ruined Insulation
• Wood Rot in Your Roof Supports
• Potential Mold and/or Mildew Growth
• Increased Insect Presence

Any of these side effects could result in hundreds of dollars in repair costs. Unfortunately, that’s a reality for many homeowners. Understanding why leaks happen in the first place is the first step in finding a long-term solution from a more durable roof.

Why Do Roofs Leak?

Most roof leaks boil down to two causes: poor installation and weather damage. Believe it or not, even new roofs can experience leaks. When shingles aren’t secured to the roof decking properly, leaks are practically inevitable.

External weather threats are the most common reason for leaks, however. Hail damage can crack the top layer of your shingles and the underlying fiberglass. Extreme wind may tear off entire sections of your roofing, exposing the decking to water damage.

Which Materials Offer the Best Leak Resistance?

If basic asphalt shingles can’t handle weather damage without leaking, what’s the next best alternative? Actually, there are many great options for homeowners, such as:

• Slate
• Wood Shakes
• Synthetics
• Architectural Shingles
• Impact-Resistant Shingles
• Metal Roofing

Both natural and synthetic roofing materials can provide hardy protection for your home. However, if you’re looking for an easy-maintenance solution, you’ll probably want to steer clear of slate and wood shakes.

Don’t fret though! If you’re looking for roofing solutions in the lower price range, start with architectural or impact-impact resistant shingles. Architectural (laminate) shingles specialize in wind-resistance while also creating a beautiful 3D aesthetic for your roof. On the other hand, impact-resistant shingles offer superior hail strike protection. These shingles can withstand a two inch hail stone striking at 90mph without cracking!

If your budget allows, you should definitely consider synthetic shingles or metal roofing for your home. Both options provide sturdy weather protection with a long-lifetime of low maintenance. You can also mimic natural materials like wood, tile, or slate without picking up any extra cleaning requirements.

Ask About an Estimate for Your New Roof!

Investing in a more durable roof material may cost you more in the short-term, but you’ll also enjoy decades of lower repair and maintenance costs as a result. If you’d like to learn more about residential roof installation in Spring, TX, talk with one of our local experts at 832-704-2817. We’d be happy to answer any and all of your questions!

Shingles Aren’t The Only Roofing Material to Face Leaks! Tile Roofs Can Leak Too.

Every year, we work with homeowners that need help fixing their roof leaks. Some call early. Some call too late, and some don’t even know they have leaks until the ceiling has swollen with moisture. We want our neighbors to know how to identify and address a potential roof leak, so here is a quick little guide!

How Do I Know if My Roof is Leaking?

Some signs are obvious. Stains in the ceiling, wood rot in the attic, and the smell of mold can all indicate a potential leak. If you think there may be a leak in your house, make sure you take it very seriously. Try starting in the attic (if you have one) and look around for dripping or pooling water. If you can’t spot anything now, try again during the next rain storm.

Now there are a few other potential leaks in your house that could be confused with roof leaks, such as:

• Wall Plumbing
• Leaking Water Heaters
• HVAC Leaks

Because roof leaks can seep into almost any crevice in the house, it can be hard to know the true source of a leak. Before you call the plumber, make sure to take a look in the attic for any obvious dripping or moisture damage. If you notice moisture or leaking water around your heater however, you should quickly contact your local Texas water heater repair service.

How Do You Fix a Leaking Roof?

Without stomping around on your rooftop, carefully examine your shingles (or tile) for cracks, dislodged or uplifted material, and corroded flashing. The most common cause of leaks is damaged shingles, so this is most likely the problem. You’ll need to have any cracked shingles sealed and any missing (or demolished) ones replaced as soon as possible. Again, make sure your flashing is working well, because damaged flashing will actual direct water into your home.

This is What Prolonged Roof Leaks Can Do.

The most important thing is to act quickly. If you suspect a leak, it’s smart to call for an inspection. Roof leaks can ruin insulation, damage your roof supports and decking, and even cause harmful mold and mildew growth. It’s great to identify the source of a leak if possible, though you may need an expert’s assistance.

Schedule Your Roof Leak Repair Today!

Now that you know how to identify and react to a roof leak, your home can be more easily protected from water damage! If your property is currently dealing with rain leaks, call us at 832-704-2817 for affordable assistance. You’ll soon see why so many Spring, TX locals choose roof leak repair from Hellenic Roofing & Construction.

How Much Does A Roof Inspection Cost?

Roofs have a big job protecting your home or business. Because of that, they take the brunt of damage keeping everything under it safe. If your roof has been damaged from a recent storm, it is important to get a roof inspection to not only repair your roof’s defenses, but to be able to file an insurance claim.

How Much Does A Roof Inspection Cost?

A Yearly Roof Inspection Can Not Only Fix Damages, But Can Lower Energy Bills and Improve Indoor Air Quality With Its Discoveries

Not only can the outside of your roof get damaged, but so can the inside! Your decking, fascia, and soffit can get punctured if shingles have come off and left these spots bare and vulnerable for holes and leaks. If water was able to get past your roof and into your home, you could be dealing with other issues like mold, bad smells, loss of cool air that increases your energy bill, and wood rot. Getting annual roof inspections can locate problems like mold, wood rot, leaks, and other damage that could be affecting your indoor air quality. Getting an annual preventative roof inspection can identify and patch minor holes before they become big enough to lead to serious interior damage. The average cost of a roof inspection is $600, though some roofing companies offer free inspections with another service or free estimates.

What a Roof Inspector Looks For During An Inspection:

• Roof decay signs like moss or algae growth
• Missing, bent, warped, or cracked shingles
• Rusted flashing or metal roofing
• Leaks, rot, or mold
• Loose or shaking gutters
• Sagging roof deck or light visible through the roof
• Checks for proper attic ventilation and insulation

If you are needing a roof inspection in Spring, TX, call Hellenic Roofing & Construction at 832-704-2817 today.

No matter if you have bought a roof before or this is your first time, there are steps that should be followed, in order to have the best roof buying experience. The steps are relatively the same whether the roof is for a residential or a commercial home. The roof that you choose to put on your commercial building or your home is a major investment. It is important that you do the research and don’t skimp on the price for something like this. The saying, “you get what you pay for” has never been more true than when you are buying a roof. Here are a few things to plan for ahead of time to make sure that you get the best roof possible.

Planning Ahead

Budget – This is usually the first thing that you do for anything, so it should be no surprise that when making such a large purchase such as a roof, that you would plan your budget ahead of time. You should first sit down and decide what is the very most that you can spend and then go from there. Know beforehand that roofs are not cheap, but make sure you also do your research so that you aren’t paying too much.

Ask – This brings us to our next topic, ask questions. There is nothing better that you can do than ask a bunch of questions. You will know right away if someone is trying to give you the run around and get your money. Do the research beforehand, but ask around for different professionals advice.

There are many other tips that will help you along the way and when you call Hellenic Roofing & Construction, we can help answer any questions for you. Call us at 832-704-2817.