All About Roofing Blog

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.

January 14, 2022 in Roofing, Tips

6 Cold Weather Tips to Help Your Roof Survive This Winter

Winter is here, bringing with it snow, wind, ice, and other threats to your roof. Here are 6 tips to help your roof survive this winter.

1. Ice Dam Prevention

Ice dams are one of the biggest threats your roof will face during the winter. These occur when snow begins to melt as it warms, then refreezes into a top layer of ice when temperatures drop. This creates a barrier which traps snow and water beneath its icy surface. Eventually, this trapped moisture will penetrate your roof and drain into your home. Ice dam prevention involves snow removal from the roof, and stopping dam formation before it starts.

2. Ice Dam Mitigation

If your roof already has an ice dam, you can take steps to break it up and allow normal water flow. Don’t ever get on your slippery roof, and never use hammers or chisels to break up ice dams! Here are a few safer methods:

Fill panty hose with ice melt and lay it across the dams from roof point to gutter, allowing the tubes to overhang your gutters. This will melt snow and ice and create a clear path for water runoff.
Refreeze the trapped water by directing cold air, such as created by a big fan, at the roof from inside your attic or crawl space.
Plug in snow melting mats or cables to keep the ice and snow moving by warming roofing surfaces from the outside, melting the icy surface and releasing trapped moisture. Having these in place prior to icy conditions will keep the dams from forming.

3. Snow Roof Rake

Snow weighs over 20 pounds per cubic foot. That’s a lot of weight to ask your roof to support! Snow roof rakes are designed to remove snow from the roof. Featuring long poles and wide heads, some of these even have wheels on the rake head to make them easier to maneuver. They are lightweight and durable, extending to 20’ or more for a better reach. Proper snow removal from roof surfaces is one of the best ice dam prevention methods and will lessen the weight burden on your roof.

4. Trim Overhanging Tree Branches

If you didn’t do this already when readying your roof for fall, it’s not too late. Tree branches become brittle with heavy snow and ice, and are more likely to break off and cause damage to your roof and gutters, especially in windy conditions.

5. Clean Gutter Debris

Debris in your gutters will stop them from draining properly, resulting in a build up of ice and snow. While icicles on gutters may look pretty, collapsed or damaged gutters are costly to replace and can cause significant damage to your roof and your siding.

6. Fix Roof Issues Now

Missing shingles, uneven roof surfaces, sagging sections of the roof, and water spots on your ceilings all indicate major issues with your roof that need to be addressed immediately. Professional roofing contractors are trained to spot potential problems and repair them before they cause significant damage to your home.

Contact PJ’s Roofing, servicing homes in Frederick and the surrounding area, for a winter roof inspection to make sure your roof will survive winter’s icy grip.

December 16, 2021 in Roofing, Solar Panels

Top 7 Roofing Design Trends for 2022

As we enter 2022, one thing is certain: roofing design trends throughout this year and beyond will embrace the concepts of environmentally friendly, energy efficient materials and designs. What do these designs mean for your new roof in 2022?

1. Money Saving Materials

With the prices of utilities going through the roof (pun intended), you will see more and more designs and materials used with the purpose of reducing energy bills and environmental impacts.

These can include solar roofs, cool roofs coated in energy reflecting and/or absorbing materials, and synthetic shingles made of more affordable recycled products such as plastics and rubber.

2. Simplistic Designs

The days of complex rooflines are behind us, with more homeowners turning to simplistic, clean designs that can also be incorporated with energy saving features such as solar panels.

These roofs not only provide cleaner lines to your roof, they can also be less expensive to design since they use less materials.

3. Metal Roofs

Metal roofs are a great option for any home. They can be another eco-friendly choice because they incorporate recycled materials while lasting decades longer than other traditional roofing choices. Metal roofs are less prone to leaking than asphalt shingles, and they encourage snow and rain to just slide off slanted surfaces far easier than their asphalt counterparts.

4. Green Roofs

Similar to a cool roof, green roofs (also known as garden roofs) provide an extra layer of energy efficiency. These are flat roofs that are covered with vegetation, providing shade to the structure underneath them and an efficient use of rainwater.

5. Solar Roofs

Solar roofing is a trend that has been growing over the past few years, but 2022 will most likely see these roofs gain even more popularity. And why not? Solar panels generate electricity without the pollution of traditional energy sources, eliminate the need for fuel, and produce no noise as they generate power.

6. Recycled Synthetic Roofs

Synthetic roofs require no petroleum products in the manufacturing process, making them far more eco friendly and affordable than traditional roofing materials. One of the more popular synthetic options is synthetic slate, offering a clean and classical slate appearance to any home.

7. Skylights

As energy prices continue to soar, homeowners are looking for ways to use less electricity to save on utility bills. Skylights are a great way to enhance the natural lighting in your home. Available in star-gazing skylights or tubular versions that add some light to your space, skylights are a great way to help trim your electric bill.

PJ’s Roofing Has the Experience You Need to Keep Up with 2022 Roofing Trends

Whether you’re looking to replace your roof now or sometime in 2022, call PJ’s Roofing to get an estimate and guidance in choosing the right design and materials for your project. We handle both residential and commercial roofing needs, from flat roofs to gables, asphalt shingles, synthetic slate, and everything in between. We also specialize in gutter replacement and skylight installation. Contact us now to schedule an appointment for your free estimate. It’s your first step in making sure your roof is the trendiest one on the block in 2022.

November 16, 2021 in Skylights

How To Repair a Leaking Skylight: Diagnosis & Repair

Into everyone’s life, some rain must fall…but what if it’s falling into your hallway, dining room, or bathroom? Skylights are a great source of natural lighting and letting in a little fresh air, but what happens when it leaks? With winter right around the corner, it’s not just rain you need to worry about. Sleet, ice, and snow are common sources for this headache.

When these windows leak, it’s usually because of poor installation techniques, including improper flashing and sealing. Sometimes you notice it right away, but other times it can take quite a while before the leak is apparent. Remember that, unless you built the window into your roof during construction, skylights rely on cutting holes into your roof.

How to Repair Leaking Skylights

Before you panic, take a closer look at your skylights. Is it actually a leak, or has condensation built up inside the window, like a car’s windshield on a cold day? Many skylights have a tray to catch condensate moisture, but it’s possible for this to overflow. If this doesn’t seem to be the problem, it’s time to take a look at the window’s installation.

Carefully get up on the roof if you’re able to do so safely, and have a trusted partner with you. Check the skylight, looking for:

Damages to the roof itself
Previous repairs that are now failing
Open seams
Flashing fails such as gaps, cracks, and pinholes
Signs that the window seams are failing, such as torn or worn seals

If it’s unclear where the leak is originating, you can pour water from a bucket or hose over the skylight and have someone inside see where the leak seems to be. Remember that water travels, however, and sometimes for quite some distance from the original leak source.

Let’s look at a few ways you can tackle a leaking skylight.

Clear Debris

Debris that has built up along the window can trap moisture, so make sure the roof is free of leaves, moss, and branches.

Cement Roof Flashing

Cement roof flashing will help repair the damaged existing flashing around the skylight. Follow the manufacturer’s directions for proper application.

Spray Foam

This is always worth a try, but again, may only be a temporary fix. Spray foam expands and hardens, making the skylight more leak resistant. Apply it at the base of the window from the outside, and add a bead inside around the window for good measure.

Replace Missing or Damaged Shingles

If the skylight’s surrounding shingles are missing or damaged, the gaps around it will increase and allow water to come in. If this is the case, you can replace the surrounding shingles and the flashing, but again, this is only a temporary fix. Missing shingles can also mean damages to the roof’s structure as well, and you may need to have that section replaced and the window reseated.

Check for Interior Issues

If you can’t locate the source of the leaking, there’s a possibility that there’s a problem with the drywall around the skylight. If this wasn’t properly insulated when the window was installed, it could be letting water in. Expose the area behind the drywall, and use your expanding spray foam in this area.

Call the Skylight Pros

Unfortunately, the fixes we mention above are only temporary and in time, you’ll have the same problems you have now. Ultimately, a professional needs to come and look at the skylight’s installation and recommend permanent repairs. These can be difficult even for the best roofing contractors. In certain situations a complete uninstall and reinstall of the window may be necessary.

October 14, 2021 in Roof Replacement

7 Reasons Fall is the Perfect Time for a Roof Replacement

When you think of fall, what do you think about? Football, colorful leaves, an end to your yard work, and bundling up in your favorite chair in front of a fire? We bet you never thought about replacing your roof this fall, but if you have been waiting for the right time, it’s already here. Why is now such a good time for this? Well…

Lowered chances of extreme weather: Cooler temperatures and drier weather make fall the perfect time for replacing or repairing your roof.
Off-season pricing: Roofers begin to see a drop in projects after the summer is over, and many offer special fall discounts and savings. This is the time to shop around for deals on roofing services.
Winter ready: Installing a new roof in the fall gives shingles and other materials time to set properly before winter weather strikes. Summer’s heat makes adhesives less sticky, and winter’s cold can make shingles brittle, both of which can complicate your job.
Shorter wait times: Off-season roof replacements mean your contractors can get to your project faster than during peak season. This decrease in projects may mean you get more roofing technicians on your job so it can be completed faster.
Just in time to save on energy costs: When it comes to decreases in energy efficiency in your home, your roof is your biggest culprit. Getting your project done in the fall means you’ll save money on your energy bills this winter.
Mitigate spring and summer damages: If your roof was already the worse for wear this year, chances are it was damaged even more after the storms of spring and summer. Fall is the perfect time to evaluate your roof to make sure it’s ready for winter.
You may want a gutter replacement at the same time: If your gutters are leaking, they need some attention, especially before winter hits. A full-service contractor like PJ’s roofing can upgrade your gutters while replacing your roof.

Take Advantage of Fall for Your Roof Replacement

Whether you’re looking for minor roofing repairs or a complete roof replacement, fall is here. We’re a locally trusted contractor with an experienced team of residential roofing professionals to complete your job on time and on budget this fall, just in time for winter.

If your wallet isn’t quite ready for a new roofing project, take advantage of our financing options, including 12-month interest-free and 84-month reduced interest payments.

We provide a large variety of shingles, including slate and metal roofing options, that will boost your home’s curb appeal while improving its weather resistance. Contact us today for a quote or to schedule an appointment for an evaluation of your roof.

September 16, 2021 in Roofing, Underlayment

Synthetic or Felt? A Simple Guide to Choosing the Right Roof Underlayment

Choosing your roof is complicated enough; architectural shingles or slate? Brown, black, gray, tan, or red? While your mind is spinning from the number of options in front of you, your contractor wants to discuss something else: synthetic underlayment, or felt underlayment?

You’ve seen roofing underlayment before, and maybe even called it roofing tar paper or roll roofing. You probably never knew there were two types of underlayment, and you probably have no idea which to choose.

Here’s a simple guide to roofing underlayment to take away the mystery so you can get back to focusing on the important stuff…like adding a skylight while you’re getting your roof done.

What is Roof Underlayment, and Why is it Important?

Roofing underlayment is placed over the bare plywood (or OSB) deck just prior to placing your shingles. Its purpose is to add another protective layer to your roof for increased weather resistance to rain, ice, or snow. Without underlayment, you risk water soaking into the roof deck and causing serious issues including leaks, rot, mold, and mildew.

Underlayment adds another layer of insulation, creates a seal around flashing, gives roofers a more even surface to lay your shingles, and even acts as a sound barrier.

There are two primary types of roofing underlayment: felt underlayment and synthetic underlayment.

Felt Underlayment: Pros and Cons

Many homes have asphalt-saturated felt as an underlayment. Felt underlayments are thicker and heavier than synthetic, making them harder to work with. It’s a good choice for a tight budget, however, and has a relatively quick installation time.

Pros of Felt Underlayment

By far, the best reason to choose felt underlayment is its lower cost vs synthetic underlayment. Additionally, it is water resistant and readily available at most roofing supply companies, making it easy for a contractor to get.

Cons of Felt Underlayment

Felt underlayment has its downsides, though. It isn’t as durable as synthetic and is prone to tearing during installation. It’s absorbability means it can soak up water and wrinkle, which makes shingle installation harder. On the flip side, if the felt is left in the sun or heat it can dry and lose its efficacy as an underlayment. It’s recommended that shingles be placed immediately after the felt is laid to avoid damage to the underlayment material.

The thickness and weight of the felt make it harder to work with, including difficulties when roofers need to drag it up the ladder. The weight also means that the rolls of material are smaller, so there is a potential to have more seams when it’s installed.

Finally, ff shingles are lost, the felt underlayment offers less weather-proofing and water resistance to the deck below it.

Felt underlayment may be a good choice if you’re on a limited budget and can guarantee that the shingles will be placed immediately after the material has been placed on the roof deck.

Synthetic Underlayment: Pros and Cons

A popular alternative to felt, synthetic underlayment is made from long-lasting polymers, which add to its durability both during the installation process and throughout the life of your roof. It adds better weather protection to the roof deck than felt, but it is a more costly option.

Pros of Synthetic Underlayment

Synthetic underlayment is more durable and lightweight than felt, making it far easier to work with. Lighter than felt, synthetic underlayment comes in larger rolls and is easier to maneuver. Larger rolls also means more complete coverage with fewer seams.

Since synthetic options aren’t prone to damage from rain or heat like felt underlayment, your roofing project can be extended beyond the date the material is installed, if necessary.

Synthetic roofing underlayment is water resistant and will not soak up water the way a felt underlayment does. The material itself is less prone to mold or mildew, and increased water resistance means it will offer more protection to the roof deck if shingles are lost.

Cons of Synthetic Underlayment

There really aren’t many disadvantages to choosing synthetic underlayment over felt. The initial price may be an issue for some budget-conscious homeowners, but the trade-off is an underlayment that is durable, longer lasting, and more weather resistant than felt.

Synthetic underlayment is a great choice if durability, ease of use, and improved weather resistance is important to you for your roofing project. While it may be more expensive initially, it will save you money in the long run in increased protection.

PJ’s Roofing Will Help You Choose the Right Underlayment

With over twenty years in the roofing industry, PJ’s understands the importance of choosing the right material for your underlayment. Contact us and let us look at your roof and help you decide whether felt underlayment or synthetic underlayment is a better choice for your project.

August 19, 2021 in Roofing, Tips

Financing a Roofing Project? Here’s What You Need to Know

The need for a roofing project usually presents itself when you least expect it, and chances are your finances aren’t ready for this type of expenditure. Your roof isn’t something you think about until it causes problems, such as leaking, rotting, and general wear and tear. Luckily, there are options available for financing a new roof, but what should you know before signing the dotted line?

1. Fees

Just because a company accepts financing doesn’t necessarily mean that they will do so without charging fees, often a small percentage of the finance agreement. These fees are in addition to fees charged by the lending bank, including early repayment fees, origination fees, and late payment fees.

2. Interest Rates

Whatever financing option you choose, you’ll be repaying with interest. How much interest the finance company charges will largely depend on the terms you choose, your credit score, your income, and other factors.

Beware of the 0-interest options. These are fantastic if you can pay more than the minimum payment each month. Paying only the minimum payment will most likely not allow the balance to be paid in full by the end of the term, and after the term expires, finance charges and interest will be levied against you from the initial date of the loan.

Divide the balance by the term and pay that amount rather than the minimum balance. For instance, a $12,000 loan, interest free for two years, will require monthly payments of $500 to be paid in full within the two year term. This is what you should pay, regardless of what the “minimum payment” would be, to ensure the balance is paid off by the time the 0-interest term ends.

3. Terms

Choosing the right payment terms is an important consideration. Terms that are too long will incur higher interest rates, but terms that are too short may financially hinder your ability to repay the loan. Find a happy medium: what’s the most you can afford to pay per month? Once you’ve established a budget, you can find the best terms for your financing plan.

4. Saving Money on Your Loan

If you can, find a financing option that will allow discounts for things such as autopay and paperless billing. You may also consider a credit card instead of a financing option if you can find a zero interest card, or one with a lower interest rate than offered by the financing company.

In addition, if you belong to a credit union you may find financing options through your bank that can save you money in the long run.

Need a New Roof? PJ’s Roofing has You Covered!

PJ’s roofing is a proud partner with GreenSky Financing. We have two options to make financing easier for you, so you can get the roofing services you need right now:

Reduced Interest Rate for 84 months: Enjoy seven years of reduced interest rates on your roofing project.

No Interest if Paid in Full in 12 Months: Take a year to pay back your loan with interest free financing for up to a year.

Ready to learn more? Contact PJ’s roofing for a free consultation and quote, and make sure to ask about our special financing options.

July 21, 2021 in Roofing

5 Signs you Need a Roof Replacement…Now!

Roof replacement is one term that fills homeowners with fear. Enough fear, in fact, to keep them far away from the vital roofing services they need. But homeowners, take heart; you’re not alone. It’s estimated that 90% of roofing services involve roof replacement.

There are significantly more existing homes than those being built new, and it’s only natural that an older home’s roof is more likely to need repair and replacement. Your roof is the only thing keeping you safe from the elements, so it’s time to give it a little more attention. Do you need roof repairs or a complete roof replacement? Here are five signs that your roof needs more than just a little TLC; it needs to be replaced.

1. Damaged Flashing

Flashing is placed around the joints of your roof to complete a water-tight seal. Usually made of metal, you’ll find flashing at the base of areas that extend upwards from the roof, including:

Roof ridges
Vent pipes
Roof pitch connections
Skylights
Chimneys

When your roof’s flashing is damaged, it allows water to penetrate underneath…and right into your home. Flashing can be damaged due to weather, branches, or age. Common signs of flashing damage are corrosion and rust, bending or separating, leaks around chimneys and vents, and holes of any size.

2. Bats in the Belfry? Unwanted Critters in Your Home

If you’re finding wildlife in your home and you’re not Snow White, the odds are quite high that you have a breach in your roof. Squirrels, birds, and, depending on the size of the hole, even raccoons, will take advantage of an easy entry into your home and cause hundreds of dollars in damages. Once in the home’s attic or crawl space, they can easily chew holes through ceilings and walls to make unwelcomed appearances in other rooms.

On top of gnawing and nesting, these animals carry diseases and can be quite aggressive. If you’re hearing the pitter-patter of tiny feet above you, it’s a sign that you need a roof replacement.

3. Curling or Missing Shingles

Shingles that are effectively doing their job should lay flat on the roof. If your shingles are curling and separating, they have outlasted their usefulness. Eventually, these shingles will come off the roof entirely, leaving your wood exposed and increasing the odds of a major leak.

If you’re finding pieces of shingles or the granules that coat them, in your rain spouts or even washed into your yard, don’t waste time. A major breach is right around the corner.

4. Signs of Water Damage on Ceilings or Walls

This one seems obvious, but there’s a little more to it than just finding discoloration on your ceilings or walls. Water is unpredictable; the damages you’re seeing on one spot of your ceiling may not be coming from an obvious source, such as the roof right above it. Water will find a way to travel along rafters and pipes, often pooling in spots you might not expect. This is why it’s important to replace your roof rather than try to repair it yourself.

You may find leaks following large weather events that aren’t apparent during lesser ones. Hail, rain, and high winds may all play a part in where signs of a leak show up within the home. Even if you only notice the signs of leaking during heavy downpours, your roof is failing.

5. Your Asphalt Roof is Fifteen Years or Older

They say all good things must come to an end, and your asphalt roof is no exception. Did you know the average asphalt roofing material only has a lifespan of around fifteen years? Many people are turning to synthetic, slate, tile, and metal roofing to increase their roof’s life expectancy.

Not only are these alternative roofing materials durable, but they are also timeless and elegant, adding to your home’s curb appeal.

Do You Really Need a Roof Replacement?

Before committing to a total roof replacement, reach out to us and schedule a roof inspection. Your roof’s life expectancy could be extended with a few repairs. With several financing options available, a huge selection of styles, materials, and colors, and two decades of experience, your roof is in good hands with PJ’s roofing. Contact us today for a quote or to schedule your roof inspection.

June 18, 2021 in Roofing, Tips

How to Choose the Right Color Roof

Nothing enhances the curb appeal of your home like the condition and color of its roof. Replacing a roof is one of the largest investments you make, and it’s a decision you (and your neighbors) will have to see every day for the life of the roof.

Your roofing contractor can make suggestions and provide samples, but the decision will ultimately depend on your individual tastes and preferences. Here are seven tips on how to choose the right color roof for your home.

1. Your Roof Can Impact Your Energy Usage

Dark colors will absorb heat, while lighter colored shingles will reflect the heat and help to keep your home cooler. Your roof alone will not make a huge difference to your energy usage, but when combined with good ventilation and effective insulation installation, it may help.

PJ’s Roofing Pro Tip: Some geographies may have specific guidelines when installing a roof, such as using lighter or more reflective materials to meet environmental standards.

2.Your Roof Color Can Hide or Enhance Your Home’s Features

The color you choose for your roof can change the perception of the home, making it appear smaller or larger. Light colored choices, for instance, will make the house appear larger and accentuate its positive features. On the other hand, dark colors may draw attention away from your home’s imperfections.

PJ’s Roofing Pro Tip: There is no one-size-fits-all approach to choosing a color for your home. An experienced contractor will be able to help you choose a great color to enhance your home’s best features.

3. Test Drive Your Samples Before You Choose

The quality of outdoor light varies widely depending on your home’s location. What seems to be the perfect color may not be as perfect as you think it is if your home has an unusual lighting situation, such as direct sunlight exposure all day on an otherwise bare lot, or exceptionally shady and surrounded by trees.

PJ’s Roofing Pro Tip: Never choose the color of your roof based on looking at samples inside. Choose your favorite colors and take them outside throughout the day to make sure they look as beautiful outside against your exterior as they do on your kitchen table.

4. Go Dark for Light

The idea of a roof’s color is to enhance your home. Your roof provides attention-grabbing contrast to your home’s exterior. Unless your exterior is very dark, a good rule of thumb is to choose a color that is darker than the rest of your home. Likewise, if your home is dark, choosing a lighter colored roof will give your home a contrasting “punch.”

PJ’s Roofing Pro Tip: Neutral colors may seem like an easy choice, but if your exterior is neutral as well you’re missing an opportunity to add a beautiful contrast.

5. Let Your Home’s Style be Your Guide

Traditional colors tend to work best on historically styled homes, while modern houses are more versatile for roofing colors. No matter what your home’s style, however, you are looking for a color to add contrast and complement your exterior aesthetic. Avoid monotone themes where the roof is the same color as the rest of the home.

PJ’s Roofing Pro Tip: Take a drive and look at homes that match your own home’s architecture. What color roofs are on them, and do you like the look?

6. Mixing and Matching is Not Always a Good Strategy

Ever notice how some homes have a perfect match of facade and roof while others look awkward? You’d never wear plaid pants with a checkered shirt, and the same concept applies with your roof color. If your home is finished with multicolored stone or bricks, for instance, it will most likely look better with a solid colored roof. Conversely, if the home has a solid colored facade you may be able to add a beautiful contrast with a multi-colored roof choice.

PJ’s Roofing Tip: Multi-colored roofing choices can include shades of grays and browns that will add a ‘pop” of color to a solid colored exterior.

7. A Dark Colored Roof Will Not Hide Algae or Moss

The dark streaks and stains on your roof aren’t flaws with the shingles themselves, they are signs that a moss or algae is growing on your roof surfaces. You may be tempted to go with a dark colored roof to hide these stains, but the truth is that the streaking and patchy coloration will eventually show up on any color of roof. In other words, choose a dark color because it will complement your home, not because you think it will hide moss or algae stains in the future.

PJ’s Roofing Pro Tip: Don’t give in to the temptation to try to powerwash the roof. Roof algaes and mosses aren’t inherently damaging to the surface, just unsightly. Your roofing contractor can help identify the invading algae as part of a seasonal roof inspection, and eliminate it.

Ready for a Roof Color Change? PJ’s Roofing Can Help!

When it’s time to consider a new roof, don’t be overwhelmed with the wide choices of materials and colors available. PJ’s Roofing is your trusted partner for residential roofing needs, providing you with a wide selection of styles and colors, along with the expertise to help you narrow down your choices and make a decision that you (and your neighbors) will enjoy for years. Contact us today!

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