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snow covering roof

March 1, 2023 in Roofing, Tips

5 Signs Your Roof Has Snow Damage

Spring is on the horizon. You can almost feel the heat beating down on your shoulders. And just as you’re looking up, hoping to catch some of those sun rays, you just might find you’re actually surprised at what you see. You might see signs of snow damage to your roof. 

Here are some common signs.

1. Damaged Shingles

Shingles that have disappeared or now look rough, split, or cracked are all signs of a roof damaged by snow. As it melts, water can build up and improperly drain or leak. This can cause a multitude of problems such as bug infestations or mold growth.

2. Warped Walls

Another sign of a snow-damaged roof is a wet attic, damp walls, or paint that has air bubbles under it. These are all likely to be the result of snow melting and leaking from the roof.

3. Downed Tree Branches

This is another sign your roof may have sustained damage. Large branches are likely to be heavy, and the weight of a snowstorm may pull them down onto your roof and cause damage.

4. Clogged Gutters

With a gutter that’s blocked, the water from snow melting simply has no place to go, and it can’t properly drain. It stays put and stagnates on your roof. The weight of the water builds up, attracts bugs and mold, and emits a rotting odor.

5. Lingering Snow and Ice

Lingering snow and ice is an indicator of a long hard winter with heavy snowfall. The longer it’s there, the more time it has to build up and cause damage. It’s something you’ll want to take into consideration when you’re evaluating your roof as spring begins. 

How to Prevent and Fix Snow Damage

While it might not help you immediately, prevention is always preferred over a repair job. At the start of winter and all throughout the season, ensure that your gutters are clear of debris, leaves, sticks, rocks etc. This will allow room for any snow to melt, and then the resulting water will have a way to drain properly, instead of pooling on your rooftop.

Trimming away any heavy tree branches or limbs before the start of winter is a good idea too.  After all, if a branch isn’t there to begin with, it can’t fall on your roof! 

Check your shingles before a single flake falls. If they look beaten up now, snow will only make matters worse. Naturally, that could be hard on your roof. Get them checked before the temperatures drop, and you might be able to prevent further damage.

If your roof can’t handle lingering snow and ice, winter could be harmful to it. If you want to be sure this isn’t the case, have your entire roof professionally inspected before the start of winter. This will let you know how much snowfall your roof can withstand so you can develop a prevention plan. Better safe than sorry! 

Another way to keep snow from building up on your roof is by using heated coils. These work to raise the temperature on top of the roof so the snow melts quickly rather than building up. Since it’s the weight of snow that has potential to cause a great deal of damage, anything that can melt it quickly is something you should consider investing in.

Fix it

What if the worst does happen? What if your roof does sustain snow damage? How do you go about repairing it? The next question that needs to be answered is, “Does the roof need a repair, or does it actually need to be replaced?” Of course, the answer depends on how damaged the roof is. This can be a challenging determination for you to make on your own, so a professional evaluation is recommended. 

Monitor your Roof

So you’ve checked your roof and haven’t found any serious issues. Time to move on, right? Actually, we recommend keeping an eye on it throughout the winter… especially if your roof is flat. Check for snow and ice buildup when you’re walking to or from your car. If it sticks around for a while, waiting may no longer be an option. Remove it before it has a chance to cause damage. That said, it is not recommended that you climb onto the roof in an effort to remove the snow yourself. There are professionals with methods and specialized tools who can work for you to accomplish this task. 

Give a call to the pros at PJ’s Roofing. We’ll evaluate your roof for you and let you know if action needs to be taken. May your roof survive the winter!

brown metal roof

January 20, 2023 in Roofing

Roofing Trends to Watch for in 2023

The importance of a solid roof can never be overstated. It keeps the outside elements outdoors where they belong. Nobody wants rain dripping in on them or wind whistling through their home.

Yes, a sturdy roof protects your home and everyone inside it. A quality, well-maintained roof protects you from uncomfortable temperatures, and it can prevent water damage which has the potential to lead to mold growing inside your house—something everybody wants to avoid!

If you’re in the market for a new roof, you’re likely curious about current standards and roofing industry trends in 2023. Today many want a roof that’s both long-lasting and attractive. After all, a roof protects your home and it can even raise your house’s property value.

Upcoming 2023 Roofing Trends Include…

Flat Roofs

Originally, these were used for commercial buildings, but their practicality has led to them often being used in new homes. They tend to consist of materials that are both high quality, yet less expensive than some more traditional roofing materials.

Metal

This is a traditional roofing material, and is still a popular option due to its longevity. As long as it’s well-maintained, it can look nice and stylish. However, it can be noisy during a rainstorm or other extreme weather. Thankfully, recent advancements in roofing technology have allowed for noise reduction, so rain and sleet won’t keep homeowners up at night.

Asphalt

Despite newer options, some homeowners still prefer asphalt shingles. They do a fine job of providing a home with protection from bad weather. However, many people are looking for more modern choices, and they want to use an older material but in a new way. These styles of shingles have typically been black, but now you’ll see some that are grey. You’ll also find some roofing shingles that truly show the most of a homeowner’s fashion sense by using some exciting color choices and new patterns.

Eco-Friendly Roofs

Modern-day roofs with solar panels have certainly grown in popularity over the past decade, and their usage continues to rise. Technically speaking, a roof isn’t built from solar panels; rather these panels sit on top of the roof. But solar panels are noticeable and very popular as they allow the homeowner to use less energy. As a result, the owner spends less money on electricity. Win/win!

Green Roofs

Another example of an eco-friendly roofing option is a green roof. This style is seen less often in personal homes, more often appearing atop commercial buildings. But a Green Roof basically takes a rooftop garden to a whole new level, as it has a garden or landscaping growing directly on top of it. There are few roofing options more Earth-friendly than this. If you  think this suits your home, it’s important to discuss the design elements with the person or company installing your new roof or building your home.

Hybrid Material Roofing

When considering exterior home design trends for 2023 and what your options you’d consider, don’t discount a hybrid of roofing materials. This trend’s pretty straightforward and is gaining continued popularity. Here, as the name suggests, a roof is constructed by using mixed materials. A common older style of this would be a metal roof that also has asphalt shingles.

Cool Roofs

This newer style of roofing may work best for those who live in warmer places that allow them to take advantage of the sunshine. These roofs utilize lighter color choices in order to best reflect the light’s energy. With this style, a homeowner has plenty of options available to them. As with solar panels, this energy-efficient design may also reduce the dreaded electric bill.

Now that you’ve considered a variety of roofing style options as part of your home remodeling decisions, it’s time to think about who it is you want to install that new roof. At PJ’s Roofing, we’re experts in the industry. When it comes to your home you want the very best from a roofing contractor in Frederick MD. Contact us today. 

selection of different colored roof shingles

December 20, 2022 in Shingles

Picking the Right Color Shingles for Your Roof: Depend on the 3 Ss

The right color shingle is a subtle but significant ingredient in your home’s overall curb appeal. Taking a few moments to hear the experts’ advice on how to choose the right shingle color for your house is a good investment of time and money.

Choosing the right roof shingle color—one that coordinates with your home’s siding and shutters—is key to achieving a cohesive aesthetic. When making the selection, keep in mind the three Ss:  Style, Siding, and Surroundings.

STYLE

Your home’s architectural style plays a key role in selecting a shingle color for your house. Here are a few ideas for finding the right match.

  • A Cape Cod house is a classic style home design originally built of oak and pine and covered with cedar shakes or clapboard with one-and-a-half stories, a high-pitched roof, and a central front door with windows on either side. As a nod to their historical color palette, many modern Cape Cods have retained weathered wood exteriors, making lighter shingles like gray and tan a complementary choice. 
  • Tudor homes are known for their dark brown color palette, often with cream accents. Choosing a shingle color that is a softer shade of brown bridges the gap nicely between the rich brown Tudor beams and the cream stucco accent walls. 
  • Contemporary homes are often distinguished by the use of strong structural angles, resulting in a crisp and clean overall vibe to the design. Emphasize this unique architectural style with dark shingles.

SIDING

Colonial homes are one of the most popular house designs in the US. Built in a traditional style that dates back to the late 1700s–early 1800s, they are usually built on a rectangular foundation, and feature gabled roofs, symmetrical windows, flat exterior walls, and a neutral color scheme. Their look tends to be classic, with light colored siding and dark shutters. When choosing the right color shingles for this style home, taking your cue from the window shutters works well. Grey roof shingles complement a Colonial Home with white siding and black shutters, while a shade of brown roof shingle works well with a more earthy palette.

SURROUNDINGS

The natural colors that surround your home are another key factor in choosing the right color shingle. You don’t want your home to stick out like a sore thumb, but giving it presence without looking out of place is a good design goal. 

For homes located in desert areas, consider choosing colors in a muted shade of red and brown. A cooler palette of pale gray or blue, or earthy tones of light cream, pale yellow, or a sandy brown complement seaside and lakefront homes. Darker toned shingles can make your house look perfectly at home in a wooded setting. Reds, browns, and even black shingles will add a pop of color and style to your home without detracting from the lush green that surrounds a mountain home.  

If you live in a warmer climate, choosing lighter colored shingles may be a wiser choice. Lighter shades won’t absorb as much heat in the summer, saving you money on air-conditioning. If it’s often cold where you live, dark shades will add a bit of heat to your home while also melting snow more quickly—always a plus for the longevity of your roof.

Do the shingles you choose really make that much of a difference in the overall style and appeal of your home? Absolutely! By making a choice that takes into account its style, siding, and surroundings, you can create a bold, dramatic statement or a warm welcoming vibe for your home. And by relying on the efficient and affordable residential roofing installation services of PJ’s Roofing, homeowners in Maryland and Pennsylvania can have a new roof installed without breaking the bank. As a locally trusted contractor, PJ’s experienced team of residential roofing professionals will complete your job on time and on budget, without disrupting your life.

grey house with grey shingles

November 28, 2022 in Roofing, Shingles

Benefits of Architectural Shingles for Your Roof

This is the time of year, we find ourselves feeling incredibly grateful—for the family around us, for the food on our table, and for the roof over our heads. Speaking of the roof over your head, if there’s a new one in your future, you’d be well advised to consider your options carefully. PJ’s Roofing is here to help.

Given their durability, cost, warranty, and aesthetics, asphalt shingles are popular choices for roof materials in Maryland. But choosing an asphalt roof isn’t the end of it. You’ll still need to decide on which type—classic 3-tab or architectural—will be the best choice for your needs.

Let’s compare the advantages of 3-tab versus architectural shingles, as each provides different benefits.  

Composition

Both 3-tab and architectural shingles are made with asphalt, adhesives, granules (for the outside layer), and fiberglass (for the backing). The difference is in the proportions of each element used, which affects the overall quality of the shingle. Architectural shingles are typically about 50% heavier than their 3-tab counterparts. Compared to 3-tabs, architectural shingles are made with a better-quality asphalt and stronger adhesives. They also have a thicker base mat and a denser layer of granules on their outermost surface, making them more substantial overall than 3-tab shingles. 

Aesthetics

Both 3-tab and architectural shingles come in a wide array of colors, textures, and styles. However, these two types differ significantly in their appearance. A standard, 3-tab shingle is flat with a single tab shape and size, giving it a flat, one-dimensional look. Architectural shingles, also known as dimensional shingles, have several layers of materials adhering to the base. This design feature allows them to be installed to resemble cedar shakes, or even slate—adding to your home’s curb appeal without the increased expense or weight.   

Wind Ratings

Standard 3-tab and architectural shingles vary widely in their wind resistance ratings. Since architectural shingles are thicker and of higher quality, they are more wind resistant than the 3-tab variety. Architectural shingles are typically rated to withstand winds of between 80–120 miles per hour, while 3-tabs are generally rated for winds of up to approximately 60 miles per hour.

Durability

With a thicker, higher-quality composition, superior wind rating, and their ability to withstand ice, snow, and high temperatures, architectural shingles generally last longer than the 3-tab variety—usually 18 to 20 years, and sometimes up to 30 years depending on conditions. When 3-tab shingles are exposed to severe summer temperatures, high winds, or extreme winter weather, their lifespan is typically 7–10 years. In mild climates, 3-tabs can last up to 12–15 years.     

Cost

Both 3-tab and architectural shingles are affordable, making them a popular choice for homeowners in Maryland and Pennsylvania. While 3-tab shingles are often less expensive to install, the money you save upfront may not offset the need for them to be repaired or replaced sooner than architectural ones.  

Warranty

Since 3-tab shingles typically have a shorter lifespan, they often have shorter warranties—usually in the 25–30 year range. An architectural shingle installation typically comes with a warranty of 50 years—and in some cases, a lifetime warranty.  

Our team at PJ’s Roofing talks to homeowners in Maryland and Pennsylvania every day about what type of roofing material will best fit their needs. When they decide that a roof using architectural shingles is the best choice for their home, we confidently recommend CertainTeed’s beautiful, durable, color-blended offerings. Available in a wide variety of colors to suit any siding, stucco, or trim color, the benefits they provide make them a solid choice and a great value for many years to come.

skylight above stairwell

October 31, 2022 in Skylights

5 Common Myths About Skylights

Beams of natural light illuminating your home’s rooms. Breathtaking views of the winter night sky or technicolor treetops. Cool breezes on spring afternoons. Traditional skylights placed properly can achieve these transformative benefits in your home’s larger, more open areas.

Just looking to bring some concentrated sunlight to a smaller area of your home? Do you have interior spaces like hallways, lofts, or smaller rooms that would benefit from natural light? A sun tunnel, a rigid or pitched cylindrical skylight, can brighten these smaller areas, making the spaces more livable, saving you money and reducing your carbon footprint.

Choosing the right product for your needs and installing it properly are the keys to making your life a little brighter. You’ll want to consult an expert for advice, and PJ’s Roofing is here to help.

There’s plenty of misinformation out there about skylights, so start by reading a few articles that will help you separate fact from fiction.

This post summarizes the 5 most common myths about skylights:

Skylight Installation is a Nightmare

Modern skylights don’t require custom fitting between rafters and joists. No major ceiling or wall repairs are needed. Instead, newly-designed skylights fit between your home’s framing components using adjustable tubes, angle adapters and a patented fastening system. In the hands of a factory-trained installer, the process is most often trouble-free.

Skylights Need Constant Maintenance

Leaves and other debris do build up on flat panel systems, but skylights with newer design features, like domed panels, are self-cleaning. Their impact-resistant, completely sealed assemblies have no moving parts that need maintenance or repair, giving homeowners no reason to climb up onto the roof for an inspection.

All Skylights Will Eventually Leak

Earlier skylight designs weren’t as water-tight as the modern versions, nor were they always installed with as much knowledge as reputable roofers like PJ’s have today. The innovative systems PJ’s recommends have leading edge moisture controls, including water-tight features that shed rain water, protecting your home from water damage over the long haul.

Skylights Allow Excessive Sun, Causing Interior Damage

Most people enjoy the benefits of the natural light a skylight brings into a home, but too much sunlight can cause furniture, rugs, and other finishes to fade. Now that modern skylights are designed with features that filter out these damaging UV rays, homeowners can enjoy glare-free, even natural light without concern for damage to furniture and finishes.

Skylights Aren’t Adjustable

Modern skylights and sun tunnel systems are engineered for top-notch thermal performance and highly rated by Energy Star for their ability to allow natural light while not causing heat loss in the winter or heat gain in the summer. Concerned about too much natural light flooding in if you’d like to sleep late or watch television during the day? Many skylight systems that PJ’s recommends come with a “daylight dimmer” that allows homeowners to adjust the amount of natural light with the flip of a toggle switch.

Ready to bring more natural light into your home? Reaching out to PJ’s Roofing, a full-service roofing contractor in Frederick, MD with years of experience recommending and installing skylights and sun tunnels, is a great place to start!

gutter filling up with rainwater

September 22, 2022 in Gutters & Downspouts, Tips

Signs of Loose Gutters…And Why it Matters

Loose gutters are a problem. Their job is to whisk away water and protect your foundation and landscape from becoming too saturated. Gutters also prevent rainwater buildup on roofs to help keep them dry. Puddles of rainwater or melting snow can cause shingles to deteriorate faster, rot, or mold. No homeowner wants that, right?

Fixing loose gutters is critical; you need them to prevent damage to your home and foundation. That’s why PJ’s Roofing has put together a few signs your gutters may be loose and why it matters.

Improper Installation

That says it all, doesn’t it? If your roof and gutter system isn’t installed correctly, it will not function as it should––period.

Loose Spikes

Loose gutter spikes are the number one reason most gutters sag. All it takes to correct the problem is to reattach the gutter with new hardware. Adding additional gutter hangers can also relieve the pressure of the gutter’s weight, keeping it close to the structure.

Debris

When gutters are filled with debris, they become clogged. Those clogs prevent water from flowing out. And when these channels fill with gunk and backlogged water, the problem becomes a little weighty. They can become so heavy that they begin separating from the structure. Keeping your gutters clear between seasons, and checking them when you know a big storm is on the horizon, helps tremendously. 

Wear and Tear

Over time, gutters can warp and appear as if they are being opened or pried apart. Some materials are more prone to expansion and contraction due to climate conditions. Sometimes when this happens, homeowners need to replace sections or the entire system. Portions may only require being resecured, depending on their condition. 

Water Behind Gutters

Water buildup behind your gutters can cause wood rot. If you see gaps between the facia board and gutter, give us a call. And if you notice water stains on brick or siding underneath, we need to know about that too. Our highly-skilled technicians can tighten and secure your gutter system in no time.

As a homeowner, you want to ensure that your gutters stand up to the needs of your home no matter the weather. From choosing the proper gutters to having them supported and secured correctly, trust PJ’s Roofing to do the job. Our full-service roofing team in Frederick, Maryland, is happy to assist you. Let us show you why our customer service has helped us maintain an A+ Better Business Bureau rating. Call us today!  

close-up of a copper roof

August 23, 2022 in Roofing

Everything You Need to Know About Copper Roofing

Copper roofing: It’s been featured atop some of the most famous buildings across the world. Its elegance in design and durability make it the perfect choice for those who don’t want just a roof. They want something beautiful. If you’ve ever asked, “What is copper roofing?” PJ’s Roofing has all the answers. 

History

It’s one of the world’s oldest metals. In the Copper Age––an era coined by archeologists––skilled craftspeople used the brown-orange material to create tools and weapons. Later, it became a mainstream building material for cathedral roofs and exquisite domes. 

Homes in the US and historic public buildings constructed in the 1600s and 1700s have seen several renovations. From interior updates to exterior upgrades, historic homes almost always have projects in the works. Yet, copper roofing requires minimal cleaning and touch-up. When properly installed, they endure and are virtually indestructible. 

Different Styles

This material can add an elegant touch that beats any stone walkway or bay window feature with an open mind, a little imagination, and a skilled installer. This roof style can be added to almost any house design, yet there are limitations when it comes to types of copper as a roofing material. Its styles include:

  • Continuous Copper Roofing—This specialty application is usually built to specification for each project and can be the priciest option. Sheets of copper are laid out on a roofing substrate and assembled in one piece without joints or seams.
  • Copper Panels—Less expensive than continuous sheets, these arrive in standard widths and are hand-installed with visible seams. Some seams are crimped while others are brazed or welded. 
  • Copper Roofing Shingles—Commonly used because of their lower cost, they are hand applied like other types of roofing shingles, yet TLC is a must during installation due to their soft surface. 

Benefits of a Copper Roof

Copper has been the choice of builders and architects for hundreds of years. Premium buildings are capped with it because their weather protection is above the rest. The benefits include:

  • Architectural appeal—They’re gorgeous, right? 
  • Durability—They improve with age.
  • Long-run cost-effectiveness—Initially more expensive, yet lasts for centuries.
  • Low maintenance needs—Freshening up the look is a matter of choice––aged patina is gorgeous.
  • Antimicrobial properties—Mold- and rot-free and easy to clean.
  • Lightweight—Easy on trusses compared to concrete tiles or slate shingles
  • High-heat threshold—Minimal expansion and contraction during hot and cold cycles.
  • Fire-resistant—It takes a tremendous amount of heat to distort or destroy it.
  • High-value retention—The visual impact alone gives it stellar curb appeal.
  • Sustainability—Natural and recyclable, they outlast every other product.

That Gorgeous Patina

Unlike iron which rusts and deteriorates over time, copper’s chemical change coats itself with a preservative. Oxide-sulfate patina is the phase where it shifts from glistening copper to a blackish-green. This preserves the underlying metal and prevents it from corroding like other metals. 

The aged green hue is what so many love about their copper roof. Some wonder how long the process takes to morph from shiny and clean to minty green. Several factors are involved:

  • Building location
  • Humidity levels
  • Climate conditions
  • Direct water exposure

Although the initial cost will be higher, the long-term benefits make it a winner in the budget and longevity departments. Copper roofs last several lifetimes, so always choose an experienced contractor to get the job done right. We have extensive expertise installing top-quality roofs and their supporting systems. Give us a call, and let’s design a custom roof for your home or next commercial project.

aerial view of neighborhood

July 20, 2022 in Roofing

Understanding Different Roofing Materials

When it comes to roofing installation, homeowners want it done right. A big part of that process is material selection, and which type caters to a home’s specific needs.

Shingle Roofs

Common and versatile, shingle roofing is the go-to choice for most homeowners. They’re usually warranted for at least ten years. These multilayered, sometimes known as architectural, roofing systems can be a little more expensive than others, yet the durability factor makes the investment worth it.

Built-Up Roof

A technique that’s been around for a long time, built-up roofs (BUR) have three layers within their structure. First comes bitumen, then fabric containing fiberglass ply, and, lastly, a gravel or crushed asphalt layer tops it off. BUR roofs can be pricier than their counterparts, yet are known for their durability and insulation. Good for 15 to 30 years, they’re an excellent choice for homes in warmer climates because of their inherent quality in keeping heat out. The most significant disadvantage of built-up roofs is living in an area that requires snow removal due to the top layer’s loose materials. 

Metal Roof

Popular for function and that famous farmhouse style, metal roofs are a tried and true favorite. They’re a less expensive option than built-up roofs and come in various choices: galvanized steel, copper, aluminum, tin, and stainless steel. Since metal can be compromised by rust, these roofs require a top coat to protect them from rain, snow, and sunlight exposure.

Green Roofs

If you’re curious about sustainable options that are good for the environment, a green roof may be the right choice for you. The roofing material, made up of plants, is naturally efficient at reducing water runoff and insulating your home. Going green can be a stretch for some budgets due to the need for additional structure support, thermal insulation, waterproofing, installing a dedicated drainage system, composting, and purchasing the plants themselves. When properly installed and cared for, green roofs can last 40 to 50 years—longer than traditional roofs and fantastic for the planet. 

Solar Power Roofs 

Shingled roofs with areas covered by solar panels that convert sunlight into energy are what solar power roofs are all about. Although the upfront installation cost can be considerable, many buildings that make the switch harness enough energy to eliminate their need for traditional electricity. Not only are the environmental benefits significant, but property owners in some states can also collect and then sell extra power their system collects to their state and are happy about the tax deduction possibility. 

When properly designed and meticulously installed by an experienced PJ’s Roofing crew, your new roof can reduce energy consumption, provide cost savings, and show an immediate return on your investment. Choose from a broad spectrum of materials, colors, finishes, and gauges that give you the look and performance you expect. At PJ’s Roofing, our experts are ready to help you make the perfect selection for your home.

home with labeled roof basics

June 30, 2022 in Roofing, Tips

Roofing Basics: Everything You Need to Know

When tackling a roofing project, whether it’s repairs or to-the-decking replacement, there’s homework to be done. That’s why we’ve put together a list of roofing basics to keep in mind during decision time.

Roofing Components 101

There are seven integral components to a roof system:

Rafters: Like scaffolding or a skeleton frame for your roof, these wood or metal slats inside the home support both sheathing and shingles.

Sheathing: Also known as decking, this board or sheet material attaches to the rafters and serves as the roof’s ground floor. 

Underlayment: Paper-like and water-resistant, this material is placed over decking to protect your home from the elements. From thunderstorms to snowmageddons, underlayment works in tandem with membrane and vapor barriers to keep air and water from permeating through the layers. 

Shingles: These are made from a variety of materials––metal, wood, slate, and composite materials––and protect the exterior from the weather. Typically, shingles are measured in squares. For example: if your roof is 2,000 square feet, and a square of shingles equals 100 square feet, you’ll need 20 squares of shingles for the job. 

Flashing: Its purpose is to prevent water damage by sealing joints on the roof where they change direction. Typically sheet metal is installed directly on top of the joints. 

Trim: This is installed to protect the seams of the roof’s hip or ridge, which is also known as the peak, or highest point. 

Drainage: Melting snow and rainwater need somewhere to drain. Drainage needs are measured by using the slope of the roof which is determined by the rise in inches for each foot of space that lays horizontally, which is also known as the roof’s “run.” 

Elements of Design

Now that we have an idea of what goes into the function of a roof, the design components are next.

Gable Wall: The triangular parts of the home extending from the eaves to the peak of the roof.

Ridge: The highest point or peak of the house.

Centerline of Ridge: Also known as the verge, this is the wall or rafter underneath the roof’s edge where a gable ends.

Valley: The areas where two sections meet and slope downward. 

Eaves: The edges that hang over the home’s exterior walls. 

Hip: A high point where two roof sections meet.

Abutment: A vertical area, such as a wall or chimney, that meets the roof.

Dormers: The sections of the home protruding from the roof. Not all roofs have them, yet they are designed to bring natural light into an attic or third-floor space. 

Your Roof Replacement/Repair Checklist

This checklist will help you gather information while deciding which system will work best for your home’s needs:

  • Age of roof and when it was last installed or repaired
    • Remember: asphalt shingles typically last 20 years and wood shakers close to 30 years.
  • If original or restored, are there two or more layers of shingles?
  • How is your roof ventilated?
    • Mold and mildew can occur without proper airflow, leaving home air quality unhealthy.
  • Quick attic check for:
    • Gap-free insulation layer in the attic to protect from warm or cool air loss.
    • A vapor barrier under insulation and next to the ceiling to prevent attic moisture.
    • Open, vented spaces for unrestricted airflow. There should be 1 foot of vent space for every 100 square feet of attic space. 
    • A minimum of 1 inch between the layers of insulation and roof sheathing.
  • What type of shingles do you have?
    • Research the warranty
    • Investigate best, durable material for your climate and conditions
  • What is your roof’s fire rating?
    • Class A, B, or C? Class A materials––clay tiles, fiberglass asphalt composition shingles, and metal roofs––have the highest resistance to fires beginning outside your home. 
  • Which shingles are best for your roof’s pitch and slope grade?
    • Low pitch and 1–3 inch slope—steel or water-tight material
    • Medium pitch and 4–12 inch slope—asphalt and composite shingles
    • High pitch and 5–12 inch slope—wood shaker or slate shingles

When you need to know more about the longevity and current condition of your roof, contact the professionals you can trust at PJ’s Roofing. Our full-service team is here to help, no matter the size or scope of your roofing project. Get in touch today!

large house with brown roof in summer

May 18, 2022 in Roofing

Answers to Common Maryland Roofing Questions

PJ’s Roofing has been answering questions for concerned homeowners for over twenty years. We find that some are asked more frequently than others, and we’re always happy to address your concerns. We’ve compiled the most common ones into a helpful blog post!

1. How often does a roof need to be replaced?

The longevity of your roof will depend on wear and tear and the quality of the materials used. Generally speaking, it needs to be replaced every 15 years. Investing a little more in your materials can increase longevity to 20 or 30 years. 

2. What can I expect to pay for a replacement?

There is no concrete answer to the price of a new roof in Maryland until you receive estimates. The final pricing will depend on the materials chosen, the cost of removing the existing structure, replacing any damaged decking, and physical factors such as chimneys and skylights.

Contractors understand that this is a big, often unexpected, expense that homeowners don’t consider until their current roof fails. Look for contractors that provide several different financing options so you can find one with the terms and conditions that suit your budgetary needs.

3. Will a new roof add to the home’s value?

Yes! Not only will it help protect your biggest investment, but it also adds instant curb appeal to the home. If you’re looking to sell the home, a new roof is attractive to buyers on a budget who aren’t looking to spend a lot of money on repairs. Your home will be even more appealing if your contractor includes a transferable warranty on the work and materials.

You may receive discounts on your home owner’s insurance, too, because a new roof means more protection for the structure.

4. Do I need a contractor?

If you’re looking for less expensive options, you may be tempted to do it yourself or hire a general contractor. Either of these options will involve purchasing materials from a big box store or hardware store, which will limit your options.

Initially, you may think you’re saving money, but when you factor in the underlayment, the decking, and the overall quality of the finished project, you won’t be saving as much as you thought. Removing the existing roof and materials from the property is another cost factor that DIYers don’t consider.

Additionally, the work is not guaranteed and the materials will come with limited non-transferable warranties. Hiring a contractor ensures that the project will be completed end-to-end with higher quality materials, experienced roofers, and all cost factors bundled into the final estimate.

5. How do I choose the right materials?

There’s a lot to consider when choosing your roofing materials. Aside from the shingles themselves are water barriers, underlayment, decking, ventilation, and flashing.

Your choice of materials will largely depend on budget, structure, longevity, finished appearance, climate, and availability of supplies. Your contractor is experienced in finding the best materials for your budget and needs at a price point well within your budget.

We can answer all your questions!

PJ’s Roofing has over two decades of experience in the industry. We’ve handled all kinds of projects, from repairs to replacements. Don’t put off your project because you have questions. Contact us today for the answers you need about the roof you want.