All About Roofing Blog

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.

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!

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!

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.

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.

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!

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.

April 19, 2022 in Roofing, Tips

Common Spring Roofing Problems to Look Out For

Spring is here. Look down, and you’ll see beautiful flowers and green grass. Look up, however, and you may see problems with your roof, or even worse, you may not see these problems at all. Here’s what you should keep an eye out for.

Animal Nests

You’re not the only one who thinks your home is a warm and cozy place to spend winter. If you’re hearing noises in the attic or crawl space, seeing animals hanging around one area of the roof or home, or finding droppings, you may have an unwelcome visitor.

You’ll need to find the hole, usually created due to a structural weakness, and block it. Check for points of entry under the eaves, around loose or missing shingles, on the corners of the roof, and even around gutters.

Remember that animals who feel threatened are dangerous. Even squirrels, although small, are fierce when cornered. Never approach these animals on your own.

Leaks

A sure sign of a roofing problem is finding interior leaks. Brown spots, bubbling drywall, paint that’s separating from the wall, mold, and wet surfaces are all indications of a water problem with your roof.

Leaks don’t necessarily start where you’re seeing the issue. Water travels along pipes and internal structures from the source of the leak and makes damages appear elsewhere in your home.

The good news is that a professional roofing contractor can often find the source of the leak and repair it rather than having to replace the entire roof.

Damages Around the Chimney

Chimneys can be an endless source of roofing issues in the spring. From the structure crumbling or cracking to gaps between the chimney and the flashing material, small chimney problems can become big issues fast.

During the winter, any small cracks on the chimney will expand and contract as ice and water gather in them. Signs that it needs attention can include obvious deterioration or loose flashing materials as well as interior leaks. Sometimes the repairs are as easy as replacing or repairing the flashing around the chimney, while other issues may require an overhaul of the chimney structure.

Damaged Underlayment

Gaps and missing shingles can mean damage to the underlayment of your roof. A professional roofing contractor can identify and replace the damaged materials, stopping any leaks or further damage to the roof’s deck.

Misaligned or Missing Shingles

Signs of issues with your shingles can include curling, warping, and cracking. In the most obvious cases, shingles will be missing altogether or there will be obvious signs of them shifting. You may find roofing materials around the home’s exterior. Wind damages and overhanging branches are frequent causes of problems.

Shingles are your roof’s first line of defense against weather. If you note any signs of problems with them, get a professional’s opinion on how to proceed. The repairs may be as simple as replacing materials on the damaged areas of your roof.

PJ’s Roofing is the preferred roofing expert for both residential and commercial projects in and around the Frederick area. Have a question or concern about your roof? Contact us for a consultation.

March 17, 2022 in Gutters & Downspouts

Prepare Your Gutters for Spring

Now that winter is finally releasing its icy grip, it’s time to get outside and start getting your yard and gardens ready for spring. That’s a great idea, but stop and look up. Chances are your gutters need a little love and attention before spring showers hit. Here are a few ways to prepare them.

Check That They’re All Still Attached

Wind and the weight of snow, ice, and debris may have caused your gutters to pull away from your home. Take a moment to visually inspect them to make sure they haven’t pulled loose. If they have, you will need to get a closer look to assess any damage to your home’s siding before refastening them. If your downspouts have pulled away from each other, make sure to seal them after reconnecting them.

Clean and Remove Debris

It’s time to clean debris from your system, either by hand or by power washing. If you opt to pressure wash them, make sure to dial back the pressure to medium (1500 to 2000 psi) before directing the nozzle about 6 inches from the debris. If the debris is loose and dry, you can use a leaf blower to blow it out.

Trim Tree Branches

Tree branches that are leaning over your roof and gutters will eventually break off, and when they do, they can damage both. Trim back any overhanging branches and remove any trees or limbs that will cause damage if they fall.

Check the Eaves for Holes

While you’re on the ladder, inspect your eaves and vents for holes. Wildlife, such as squirrels, love climbing your spouts and finding access to your nice, warm attic. You may also find unwelcome pests, such as bees and wasps, starting to form nests under your roof.

Fix Damages

Take a moment to go outside and take a look at your gutters in action the next time it rains. A closer inspection may reveal holes and cracks in corners and joints. You can fix smaller problems with a sealant. If there’s extensive damage, addressing it may require professional repair services or a complete replacement of leaking sections.

Consider a Leaf Guard

An investment in a leaf guard system will keep debris out of your system all year round. Because wet leaves will cause deterioration of your system over time, installing these guards will extend the life of your system.

Is it Time to Replace Your Gutters?

The average lifespan for these systems is around 20 years. As the system begins to fail, improperly channeled water will cause damages to your home’s siding or roofing. If you think your gutters are nearing their functional end-of-life, call the pros at PJ’s Roofing to evaluate them for you.

February 16, 2022 in Roofing, Tips

Top 5 Tips to Choose the Best Roofing Contractor for Your Home

A simple search of roofing contractors can send you down a spiral of confusion. Is it better to stick with a big name general contractor or an independent roofing contractor? How quickly can they get to my project? How much will it cost? Who has the best guarantee? Your choices can be overwhelming.

Here are a few tips to pick the best roofing contractor for your home:

Tip #1: Start With Online Reviews

The best place to start narrowing down your search is with online reviews and testimonials. Don’t be put off by one or two unrelated bad reviews if the majority of them are glowing; it’s not uncommon to find a customer who is unhappy regardless of the quality of the work. Be more concerned if several reviews are focused on one aspect of the company, such as timeliness, overall quality, or customer service. A pattern of bad reviews surrounding one or two areas of customer experience may be a good indication of a bigger problem with the company.

Tip #2: Pricing Should be Squarely in the Middle of Average

When it comes to pricing, everyone wants a bargain. Unfortunately, with roofing contractors, prices that are too good to be true…usually are. Heavily discounted services may cost you in different ways such as lower quality materials, sub-par craftsmanship, a lack of a warranty or guarantee, hidden fees, poor customer service, and slipshod project management. No one wants to pay too much for a roofing project, but beware of dealing with hidden pitfalls when choosing a “bargain” contractor.

There’s no doubt that a roofing project is usually an unwelcome and unexpected expense. Choose a contractor that offers a wide selection of financing options.

Tip #3: Make Sure You get a Comprehensive Written Estimate

You’re not counting nails, of course, but you need to be aware of hidden project costs. Make sure the company does a thorough inspection of your roof and can give you an honest estimation based on what they’ve found. You never know what unexpected issues the project may uncover, but having a thorough written estimate in hand gives you a good idea of the rough cost of the project. Make sure to get estimates from at least three companies before choosing the right one for your home.

Tip #4: Warranty and Guarantee

Check the fine print for the contractor’s satisfaction guarantee. What options do you have if you’re not satisfied with the work, or if you run into an issue after the project is completed? How long after project completion will the satisfaction guarantee last?

A warranty is a slightly different side of the same coin. A warranty specifically covers the materials used in the project, such as the shingles themselves. To get the most value out of a new roof, look for warranties lasting fifteen to twenty years that can be transferred to a new owner.

Tip #5: Independent Contractor or Roofing Company?

There are differences between independent contractors and roofing companies. Both will be able to complete your project, but a one is far better suited for it. Can you guess which one? Independent contractors will usually take longer to complete the project, may not have access to high volume discounts and high quality materials, and may not provide the guarantees and warranties a roofing company can. Independent contractors typically source materials from a local home improvement store, limiting your choices in everything from quality to color. In addition, independent contractors will most likely subcontract projects to complete them in an agreed upon time frame. There are advantages to using them for various home projects, but a large roofing project usually isn’t one of them.

PJ’s Roofing Checks all the Boxes

We provide residential roofing in and around Frederick County. With a large selection of materials and a history of satisfied customers and over two decades of experience, we bring you the styles, affordability, and solutions you need for any roofing project, large or small. Reach out to us and let’s talk about your needs.

Blog