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Can You Claim Roof Damage on Insurance?

This is a great question. Homeowners insurance will cover a roof leak if it is caused by a covered peril. If a peril is identified and accurately attributed to the damage, then the homeowner’s policy will pay for the related roof repair. Once again, it is important to stipulate that insurance companies are very stringent in their discourse: they will not pay for any symptoms that relate to lack of maintenance.

What is Roof Depreciation in Insurance Claim?

Roof depreciation is an important term to remember as it relates to your insurance claim. Recoverable depreciation is the amount of money that you can recover from your insurance company after making a claim on a policy. The money stemming from such a roof insurance policy will be paid by the insurer in two increments. There are certain systems in the home that need to be continually functional. Having regular hot water is one of them. If your water heater is malfunctioning, water heater repair can help.

Are Missing Shingles Covered by Insurance?

When the damage that has resulted from a covered peril is significant enough, a roof replacement could be covered. There are a number of factors that contribute to whether a roof replacement will be considered. The first is whether or not the damage is extensive enough. The second is whether or not the identified peril is accurate. Usually, missing shingles will be replaced in identified patches when a roof replacement isn’t merited.

Will a Roof Leak if Shingles Blown Off?

When the shingles on your roof are missing, it’s time to immediately secure a roof repair. This is because shingles are your primary defense against inclement weather. When these shingles are missing, water has easier access to the underlayment of your roof. If you’re wondering whether or not your roof will leak if the shingles are blown off, the answer is assuredly yes. This is because, over time, water can penetrate even the toughest membrane. In order to accurately ascertain the condition of your roof, please be sure to contact a verified roofing company.

How Does Roof Insurance Claim Work

Sometimes it can seem like the roof insurance claim process is difficult and hard to process. Here is a review of what you should expect during the roof insurance claim process.

1. Request a roof inspection from a verified, insured, roofing company. Ask a friend or neighbor for a referral. Consult the internet to see how many positive reviews can be accounted for.
2. If damage has been identified on your roof, and if is worth more than your deductible, it is time to file an insurance claim.
3. Next, you will meet with an insurance adjuster.
4. Then, you will receive a check from your insurance if the claim has been approved.
5. After that, you can then have your selected contractor fix the roof.
6. If you have replacement cost coverage, you will then receive your second check.

How to File Roofing Insurance Claim

Okay, so the first natural step for your roofing insurance claim is to get an estimate from a verified roofer in your area. That means that you have had to be very selective in your choice of a roofing company. A handyman, for instance, will not be able to provide the same level of expertise or professionalism as a roofing company that is insured and has many years of experience in the roofing industry. The next thing that you will have to do is secure documentation that roofing damage does exist, and if it is indeed more than your deductible, it is time to file an insurance claim. After that, you will meet with an adjuster provided by your insurance company. At that point, it will be deduced whether coverage can be provided.

Insurance Roof Claims for Hail Damage

The insurance roof claims that you will have to submit for hail damage follow exactly the same cycle as previous entries. It is worthy of stipulating that you will need to account for all signs of damage. That includes roof leaks. If you have a roof leak on account of hail damage, it’s important for you to get help.

Our company can help you with roof insurance claim help. Our staff at Vision Roofing LLC are ready to take your phone call at (404) 410-1060. Discover more about what we can do for your roof insurance claim in Alpharetta, GA can do for your home!

Benefits of a Roof Inspection

Why get a roof inspection at all? If there are no obvious signs of damage, everything should be fine, right? That’s the general idea most property owners have when it comes to their roofs. Unfortunately, this mindset can lead to some pretty significant problems. Having your roof inspected regularly will provide many, much-needed advantages that you may not be aware of.

• Detect Damage: A great benefit with inspections is finding and preventing roof damage. When you are regularly checking the structure and the materials, you’ll be able to spot leaks, mold, problems, and much more. You’ll also be able to prevent future damage as well. 
• Cost-Effective: Believe it or not, inspections are much more cost-effective than you may realize. While with some contractors, an inspection may run you a few bucks, it is much less in comparison to roof repair or roof replacement services. Those can run you well into the thousands of dollars, easily. 
• Life Extension: With regular inspections, as mentioned, you’ll find and prevent possible damages. By finding, repairing, and maintaining this structure, you’ll find that it really will last longer.
• Insurance Booster: If there has been any damage to your roof, having a detailed roof inspection before filing an insurance claim will be very beneficial. You’ll have a good amount of information to provide them with detailed information and move the process along faster. 

Whether you need asphalt shingle replacement or nothing at all, a roof inspection will give you a whole host of information that you can use to your advantage. Always make sure you are working with a company that will provide you a certified inspection report. What is a certified roof inspection report? It’s a detailed description of your structure, by a licensed contractor, stating it meets specific standards and guidelines. At Vision Roofing LLC, we can offer you a certified roof inspection in Alpharetta, GA.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is included in a roof inspection?
  • What’s included is a breakdown of the overall condition of your roofing structure. Most reports look at four major areas: structures, interiors, materials, and workmanship. This will give you an idea of what is needed for your roof.
• What should I look for when inspecting a new roof?
  • There is a lot to look for on a new roof, however, there are a few key areas to pay attention to. Look for any shingles that may be bent or pulling away from the base. Look at seams and seals, check that there is no cracking or peeling. 
• How long does a roof inspection take? 
  • It will depend on how large your roof is, but on average, roof inspections can last between 45 minutes and several hours. Don’t be alarmed if it takes longer than an hour. A good inspection will take a while to compile a thorough report. 
• How do you know if your roof is damaged? 
  • You’ll know your roof is damaged based on a few different signs. One of the most obvious signs is loose granules. These may be found piled up in the gutters. Another obvious sign is missing, cracked, or bubbling shingles. 
• How often do you need to get a roof inspection?
  • It’s a good idea to have your roof inspected at least once a year. If possible, twice a year. Doing so will provide you a clear understanding of the condition of your roofing structure. Additionally, you’ll be able to stay on top of problems and avoid costly repair or replacement needs. 

Does roof coating stop leaks?

While roof coating to stop leaks is a process that is sometimes used in certain types of roofs to stop trivial leaks, it is recommended by industry experts that proper repairs should be done before applying roof coating. If a leak is obvious, a roof coating should not be used as a replacement for sealing the leak and repairing the roof.

How do I seal my roof?

If the location of the leak isn’t obvious, a professional roofing service will need to search for the exact area of the leak. This can be done by crawling through the attic with a flashlight, look for black marks, mold, water stains, etc. If they can’t access an attic, they will climb up on the roof and look for obvious signs of penetrations around the boots, flashing, vents, etc.

Once they have located the leak, they may do a temporary fix and apply caulk to the area, or apply plywood and plastic tarp until they have discussed a more permanent repair with you.

Do Rubber roofs need to be coated?

A properly installed rubber-coated roof will not require to be re-roofed for years, even decades, and should only need insignificant maintenance on rare occasions. Rubber roof coating is frequently sold by those in the roof construction industry as roof insulation. Rubber coatings can provide a level of protection from UV rays and infrared radiation.

How often should you coat a flat roof?

There are many factors to be considered in answering this question. Typically, for longevity sake, maintenance is necessary for a flat roof more than a pitched roof, which is usually done by applying a roof coating. Without a routine schedule of roof coating, usually every 5 years, a flat roof’s lifespan is approximately only 10 years.

With a proper roof coating though, a flat roof can last for many more years as well as save you the expense of costly repairs.  If your structure has a flat roof, remember that when it comes to choosing between roof coating and repair, a roof coating is the more expense of the two. But repairs time and time again, can add up with the budget taking an unexpected hit at the most inopportune times.

Which roof coating is best?

When it comes to roof coating, there are many different choices, and each one is the right one, depending on the material that it will be applied over. Each type is efficient in cost and energy-efficient and can be a respectable solution to repairing a roof until you are ready for a full roof replacement.

On a commercial structure, a roof coating is often the right way to go based on the expense of labor, and today, because of the environmental concerns, the more popular choice.  A roof coating provides a barrier from the elements and is a layer of UV protection that helps the cost of cooling or heating a building.

Because a roof coating needs to be water-resistant as well, there are some materials that will perform better in preventing pooling water. Some of the coating materials available are:              

• Acrylic Roof Coating – This water-based material is a cost-effective solution and good for use on an assortment of roofs for most climates.  It offers cost and performance that is highly reflective and UV resistant. However, applying it is weather sensitive and can affect the results is applied when temps are under 50°F.
• Polyurethane Roof Coating – Polyurethane roof coat has a higher resistance to impact and traffic. With two key types: aliphatic and aromatic, with the first being the most expensive but better resistance to UV Rays so the coloring holds up better and the roof stays cleaner longer. The aromatic coating isn’t as expensive, and since it isn’t as strong against UV rays, it is often used for a base coating and not the main coating. Either coating has a strong smell when being applied.
• Silicone Roof Coating –
• Silicone roof coating is moisture-cured, which is aided in curing by humidity. This type of coating eliminates the need to apply a primer and has minimal to no erosion. Because it doesn’t turn brittle and hard, it is strong against any water pooling. It does hold dirt but self-cleans in the rain, which lessens its reflectiveness over time. It doesn’t adhere well to silicone and requires any previous coating to be completely removed before applying.

What Do You Do If Your Roof Is Leaking

Water stains on the ceiling are one of the tell-tale signs of a roof leak. If you would like to know how to address a roof leak, please read on.

• Stop the water damage. Try to minimize the water damage as quickly and as fast as possible. Accomplish this by moving or covering anything that can be damaged by water.
• Water containment. It is recommended that homeowners place a bucket, or similar waterproof container, beneath the leak. This will help catch any falling water and further reduce the capacity for water damage.
• Procure different roof quotes. Do a search in your area for local, reputable roofing companies. Then, select the roofing company with the best quote for your repairs.
• Licensed and insured. Make sure that your selected roofing company is both licensed and insured to proceed with your repairs.

How to Repair Roof Crack

Energy efficiency is one of the first things that is impaired when roof cracks occur. One of the ways to lower energy bills to investigate energy efficient hvac systems. If you happen to find that your roof has a crack in it, it’s important to know that you have options. If homeowners would like to attempt to repair the crack themselves, they will need to take the appropriate safety precautions in addition to purchasing the right roof crack materials. Using a ladder, homeowners may safely climb up on the roof. Once the roof crack is located, roofing mastic may be applied to the crack. The compound is sticky and typically black. Using a trowel, spread the mastic over the entire crack and add some extra material beyond the edges of the crack to ensure a good seal.

When to Repair Roof Tiles

Elegant and timeless, roof tiles are one of the most durable forms of roofing material. When determining when to repair roof tiles, homeowners are advised to first check the condition of the tiles. If there are any broken tiles, please count them. Next, assess how damaged the tiles are. If more than fifty percent of the roof tiles are broken or cracked, a full roof replacement is recommended. Otherwise, roof repairs are a satisfactory conclusion. The underlayment system will also need to be addressed. If your roof has not been built in the past twenty or thirty years, there’s a high probability that some sort of organic underlayment, such as felt paper, will have to be replaced.

What Roof Repair

Receiving a roof inspection from a qualified roofing company can help assess the level of repairs that are necessary for your home. Roofs provide shelter from the rain, protection from damaging ultraviolet rays, and an increased level of insulation for the home. Homeowners are advised to date their roof, and the roofing material, in order to accurately ascertain whether or not a roof replacement is in order. If a serious weather pattern has passed through your area, a roof inspection will help determine the scope of the damage, and whether you qualify for coverage with your insurance provider.

Roof Repair with Flashing

Have you selected a roofing company yet for your roof repair? Before you give them a call, it’s important for you to request that your roof flashing be inspected for any signs of damage. One common issue with roofing maintenance is the fact that the roof flashing needs to be systematically addressed. If there is a roof repair near a chimney where the flashing is located, it will need to be replaced. Reusing old flashing in an area of the roof that is already experiencing problems is a big ‘no-no.’ Putting in new flashing is a fairly inexpensive process that is entirely beneficial for your roof. 

Roof Repair or Replacement

When it comes to your roof, preventative maintenance can make all the difference. Scheduling annual roof inspections will prolong the life of your roof for years to come. Regular roof inspections ensure that when storms come, your roof will remain steadfast and resilient. Whether or not regular roof maintenance has occurred, there is a distinct difference between the need for a roof repair and the need for a roof replacement. If the damage to the roof is focalized in one distinct area, the best probable solution would be a roof repair. If there are several parts of the roof that are experiencing missing shingles, roof leaks, and more, it may be time for a roof replacement. Check with your homeowner’s insurance to see what provisions apply for your roof repair or replacement.

Roof Repair and Siding

There are many different roofing companies that offer siding repair in addition to roof repair services. The siding of a home becomes damaged over time, and with that damage comes to rot, mold, mildew, and peeling paint. One of the best ways to increase the curb appeal of a home is to repair or replace the siding.

Your roof repair should be handled with proficiency. Our staff at Vision Roofing LLC are always ready to assist. Please give us a call at (404) 410-1060. Discover more about how we can help you with your roof repair in Alpharetta, GA!

Finding a Roof Leak and Repairs Needed

Dealing with a roof leak can be frustrating and scary. If it is caught early enough, you may not have to complete a costly roof replacement. Many homeowners are concerned about the roof leak repair cost and that is understandable. But the cost to fix minor repairs versus replacing a whole roof because of extensive damage is big. If you do happen to find a leak in your roof, the best thing you can do is start preventing further damage. That means working on roof leak repair from inside your home. Cover the damaged area with a tarp and some plywood. This will help keep more damage from occurring. Once that is done, contact a reliable roofing company like Vision Roofing LLC. We specialize in all kinds of roofing needs, including roof leak repair in Alpharetta, GA. Rely on our team to expertly complete a roof leak repair or replace the damaged area.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is a leaking roof covered by insurance?
  • It will depend on the cause of the leak. If damage sustained during a storm is causing the leak, then insurance will more than likely cover it. If the damage is because of lack of maintenance or old age, then insurance will more than likely not cover it. Call your agent to go over the covered perils if you want to know more.
• How do you know if your roof is leaking?
  • There will be signs like brown or black spots, peeling paint, soft spots on the walls, and more.
• What happens if you don’t fix a roof leak?
  • You could risk serious damage to your home and roof. Neglected leaks can lead to water damage, material deterioration, and damage to your roof decking. If any should happen, your home and health could be at risk.
• What to do if your roof is leaking?
  • Do what you can to identify where the leak is originating from. Once you’ve found it, cover it with tarp or plywood to prevent further damage and contact a roofing company like Vision Roofing LLC for immediate and emergency service.

What type of roof is cheapest?

The cheapest roofing material for roof installation on the market today is asphalt roofing. Asphalt roofing ranges around $1-$4 per square foot and is easily replaceable. However, this type of roof installation is not as durable or protective of outside circumstances and impacts. Yet if you’re not too fussy about upkeep and maintenance it is the basic standard of roofing material most residences rely on and can get the job done.

Roof Installation Cost

Roof installation costs will vary depending on the roofing material you choose, the age of your home, and how expansive of a roof installation project you will undergo. Roof installations are known to range between $4,000-$10,000 yet prices can vary beyond or below depending on specifications and other factors.

How long should a roof last?

The average roofing job should last at least 15 years minimum as is seen with the most basic roofing materials with asphalt roof installation. More sturdy roofing materials will have longer life spans and can last generations with 50+ years of durability!

What type of roof will last the longest?

According to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) the longest lasting roof installation material is slate roofing as this material is projected to last 150 plus years! This material is followed closely with concrete and clay roofing materials that are projected to last roughly 100 years.

What is the most durable type of roof?

Luckily, roof durability is something improved upon over the years with many roof installation options. However, the more benefits you get from a roof the higher the cost will be to reflect the upgrades so make sure that you are keeping your costs in mind for your roof installation project. With higher upfront costs you will see better protection with minimal requirements for upkeep and maintenance. Thanks to a higher quality the benefits can often outweigh headaches that could be seen down the line with cheaper roofing materials. Generally, any roofing material with 30 plus years of life has good durability, once it passes the 50-year mark then you can expect features and improvements. The most durable roof can be viewed to tie between solar glass and slate with the latter often being heralded above the rest. Both are expensive to install yet hold many improvements over other options. A solar glass roof should be able to last the lifetime of your home and has a lifetime tile warranty with very high hail protection ratings. It has very high energy efficiency ratings due to it’s unique and rare self-generating energy which can make it the option to choose above the rest. Since it’s so good for the environment it is ultimately eligible for a tax credit to offset the high costs of roof installation. As far as slate, this roofing material is heralded for its fireproof abilities and being able to withstand even the most severe inclement weather! As it is one of the densest roofing materials it’s able to regulate the internal temperatures of a home. Slate roofs can last from 75-150 years and with proper construction even last more than 150 years!

The roof installation process can be very specific depending on the roofing material you choose so if you’re interested in installing a roof it’s important to rely on a qualified roof installation company for your next residential roofing project! With a professional roofing contractor, you’ll be able to avoid such accidents that can affect other home systems which could cause a need for fixes like pipe leak repair! If you have any questions regarding which roofing material would be right for your home or business your contractor will work with you on options so you can have the best results for your next roof installation project!

If you’re interested in roof installation in Alpharetta, GA call (404) 410-1060 with Vision Roofing LLC!

As a homeowner, you want the best for your home, whether that be an upgrade on an appliance or the maintenance of the actual structure of the home. When it comes to your roof, maintaining its health can be a lot of work and can be pretty costly. Investing money into a roof restoration project by getting a roof coating can help maintain the health of your roof without costing you as much as a whole roof replacement.

What Is A Roof Coating?

A roof coating is a roof restoration technique that creates a protective shield that is placed over the top of your roof to aid in its defense against inclement weather and natural aging components, such as sun damage. Before they are installed, a roof coating comes in a liquid form that looks almost like paint. It is then spread over your roof and is left to dry into an elastic membrane, allowing your roof to continue to expand and contrast with the changing elements, preventing it from breaking.

Types of Roof Coating

There are many different types of roof coating out there. Depending on what your roof needs, the type of coating you may choose can be different. In order for you to choose the best type of roof coating for your roof restoration project, it is important to understand the differences between them.

Silicone Coating

Silicone coating offers fantastic protection for homes that are located in areas that receive heavy amounts of rainfall and inclement weather. They also add extra protection from sun-damage, as they have a reflective surface that is great for keeping away UV light.

Silicone coating can usually be installed in one coat, meaning that you will save on the cost of labor. In the same spirit of saving, silicone coating also doesn’t typically need a primer, as it is pretty adhesive in its own right. The only thing the roof would need is a good old power washing to rid the roof of any impurities. (The only roof that does not follow along with this, is a single-ply roof, as the filmy residue that comes naturally from the material cancels out the adhesiveness of the silicone coating. Your roofer will be able to do an adhesive test to see if your silicone coating needs a primer.)

One of the major downsides to silicone coating is its cost. It is on the pricier side but it does greatly extend the longevity of your roof which will allow you to rebuild that investment by saving on repairs and maintenance.

Acrylic Coating

Acrylic coatings are a great choice for those whom’s home suffers from getting extremely hot over the summer. An acrylic coating can increase the energy efficiency of your home by its highly reflective nature, which helps keep UV rays from your home. This will help lower your interior temperature and decrease the level of work your A/C unit has to do.

Acrylic coatings are also durable in most environments and are even dirt resistant. As every homeowner is aware, a dirty roof can make your home look unkept, and decrease its value. With an acrylic coating, you don’t have to worry about constantly maintaining your roof with cleanings, and instead, you can enjoy the beautiful clean look that is created.

Cost efficiency is easy with acrylic coating, as it is one of the more common coatings on the market. It is easy to install which helps labor costs. Despite this, the acrylic coating does have some disadvantages that you should be aware of. It is highly prone to ponding water, especially with flatter roofs, as the acrylic catches the water instead of allowing it to just run off. This can lead to your home becoming damaged from leaks later on, as acrylic also becomes thinner with age. This means that receiving maintenance to apply a new coat is important to keep the durability of the material.

Polyurethane Coating

If you are in an area where impact damage from storms is a huge concern, then polyurethane coating may be right for your roof restoration project. This particular coating has a high impact resistance, making the threat of dents a thing of the past. They are also known for their high adhesiveness and stick to almost any material without needing to be pre-treated first.

The downside to this type of roof coating is the fact that it doesn’t fair very well against UV light. The heat causes the material to break down and thin out over time, which causes it to lose its effectiveness. If you live in an area with a lot of sunlight and decide to go with this material, you will have to keep maintaining it to reap the material’s benefits.

Bituminous Coating

Though this is one of the more cheaper options of coating, it doesn’t offer your roof much protection. This type of coating is more commonly found on pipes, such as copper pipes, as it has water repellant properties which aid in stopping leaks. If your area experiences a lot of rainstorms, it could be useful, but if not, it might be best to go with another option.

Elastomeric Roof Coating

Probably among one of the strongest roof coating materials, elastomeric roof coating is an elastic coating that helps protect against leaks, as it is waterproof, and prevents weathering from impact damage and sun damage.  The cost of this coating is between acrylic and silicone, but the upside is that the extended longevity in your roof will help you make back your investment by saving on costly roof repairs.

What Should I Look For When It Comes To Choosing A Roof Coating for Roof Restoration?

When you are choosing a roof coating, you want to make sure you are getting the most bang for your buck, as the whole point is to make your roof stronger to avoid paying more for repairs or a replacement. Here are some properties you should consider when choosing the coating for your roof.

Elasticity, you want your roof coating to be able to stretch while also being able to return to its original shape. While some coatings, such as elastomeric roof coating are able to bounce back after being stretched, other materials, like acrylic stay stretched out, which over time will cause it to become thin and break.

Tensile Strength refers to the materials ability to avoid breaking. It is always important to ask about the strength of it being new and after it has aged some, as some materials age more quickly than others. (Different manufacturers of coatings also have different strengths, so it is important to get all of your facts together before committing to one.

Ability to repel water vapor is important for a roof coating, as you do not want to have a roof coating that allows water vapor to become trapped within. This could cause your roof to soak up the vapor, which will then cause the aging of your roof to speed up.

Does it Peel? You want to make sure that your roof’s new coating sticks firmly to the surface, and doesn’t chip away easily. A roof coating cannot do its job properly if it is no longer snuggly fitted onto your roof.

Reflectivity refers to the coating’s ability to repel sunlight. The higher reflectivity the better your coating can help your roof protect you and your family from harmful UV rays and keeps your roof from sustaining sun damage.

Contact Us

You can always ask a team of qualified roofers which coating they think would be right for your roof restoration project. If you are looking for a roof coating in Alpharetta, GA area, then you call the expert team at Vision Roofing LLC. We will help you find your perfect roof coating solution that will help you increase the longevity of your roof and make the most out of your investment. Call us today at (404) 410-1060 for a free consultation. 

More Commonly Asked Questions

Can You Tint Elastomeric Roof Coating?

Yes! Elastomeric Roof Coatings come in a variety of different color tints, allowing you to better match your home’s aesthetics.

Can Roof Coating Be Applied Over Shingles?

A roof coating can be applied over shingles, but a coating is more used for metal roofs and wooden roofs than asphalt shingles. If you are thinking about placing a coating over asphalt shingles to try and prevent further damage, you are only extending the life by a few years. It would be more beneficial to get your roof fixed instead of messing with roof coating for an asphalt shingle roof.

How Long Does Roof Sealant/Coating Take To Dry?

Depending on the material that is being used, it can take anywhere from 8-24 hours for the roof coating/sealant to dry.

Could I Get Away With A Roof Coating Or Should I Get A Replacement?

This all depends on the state of your roof. If your roof is absolutely falling apart, then getting a replacement is better and safer for you and your family. If your roof is just showing signs of wear, then getting a roof coating can help you extend the longevity of your roof. Also, a roof coating is considered restoration and could help you receive a tax deduction, depending on the state you live in.

Can You Spray Roof Coating?

Elastomeric Roof Coating has the ability to be sprayed on, and in fact, most of the time it is. This helps it get around corners on your roof.

Energy efficiency has long since passed from buzzword status, into common parlance. Essentially, energy efficiency relates to something’s ability to not waste energy. You can find many appliances and building materials advertised as energy efficient, and the federal government has actually instituted manufacturing guidelines that require a minimum level of energy efficiency. An energy efficient house comes with many benefits, not the least of which is conservation of the environment.

Assuming your home operates through municipal power, energy efficient elements will help reduce your overall energy usage. This means that less fuel is burned to sustain your home, and that which does get used is not wasted. Of course, this leads to the primary benefit of energy efficiency: it can save you a lot of money on your utility bills. At Vision Roofing LLC, we encourage energy efficiency through the use of efficient roofing materials. If you’d like to learn more about how roofing can contribute to energy efficient homes in Alpharetta, GA, give us a call today at (404) 410-1060.

The Benefits of an Energy Efficient House

Energy efficient homes come with a host of benefits. If you are building a home, or looking to renovate or expand, the inclusion of energy efficient materials and appliances can represent one of the best decisions you’ll ever make.

Save Money on Energy Bills: As mentioned above, energy efficient housing elements will reduce you monthly energy bills. For example, energy efficient homes that actively incorporate energy efficient components and habits can save 30 percent or more on utility bills.

Improved Comfort: Energy efficient homes do not lose HVAC-treated air to gaps around doors and windows, nor does it escape through the roof or walls. This also means you’ll experience fewer drafts, and remain warmer in the winter. As for the summer, a roof constructed of energy efficient materials will reflect the worst of the sun’s radiation to keep your cooler and less dependent on the AC.

Reduced Greenhouse Emissions: Energy efficient homes can accomplish this in a couple different ways. If on a municipal power grid, there’s a good chance your energy is provided through the use of fossil fuels. The more energy your home demands, the more unsustainable fuel it consumes. Furthermore, all homes produce some amount of greenhouse gases. This contributes to the size of a home’s carbon footprint, which is the measure of its emission of carbon dioxide and other dangerous compounds. The  more energy efficient your home, the smaller its carbon footprint and contribution to environmental change.

How to Make Your Home More Energy Efficient

If you’d like to accrue the benefits of an energy efficient home, we can offer a selection of energy efficient home ideas. The following elements of your home are all available in energy efficient forms. To know what to have installed, checked for the Energy Star certification. Energy Star is a program from the Environmental Protection Agency that studies and rates housing materials, appliances, and more for their energy efficiency. The purpose of the program is to help individuals and companies alike save money on energy costs, and also help protect the environment. Energy Star ratings can appear on:

• Windows
• Doors
• Skylights
• Appliances
• Computer Monitors
• Ceiling Fans
• Siding
• Roofing
• and More!

If you have the privilege of designing an energy efficient home from the ground up, you can go even further in your selection of materials. The most energy efficient building materials include:

• Spray Foam Insulation
• Radiant Barrier Sheathing for Walls and the Roof
• Bamboo Plywood
• Insulated Concrete Forms

Among all the structural elements of your home, nothing has a bigger impact on energy efficiency as your roof. Roofs affect energy efficiency in a few different ways. Perhaps most importantly, an energy efficient roof should reflect the worst of the sun’s radiation away from your home. Some roof materials do this better than others. Traditional asphalt shingles, for example, are fairly inefficient. Usually dark colored, these petroleum-derived products absorb the sun’s UV rays, then radiate them down into the home. A more reflective roof reduces the workload on your AC, and thus increases your home’s energy efficiency. Roofs can also increase energy efficiency through their contribution to a thermal envelope effect. This means that a well-designed and installed, energy efficient roof should help contain your HVAC’s air within the structure. Roofing materials known for their energy efficiency include:

• Energy Star-Rated Asphalt Shingles
• Clay Tiles
• Synthetic Shingles
• Slate Tile
• Metal

Energy Efficient Home Heating and Cooling Systems

When it comes to appliances that affect energy efficiency, there’s no bigger contributor or detractor than your heat and cooling system. If you have owned your HVAC for 10 years or longer, newer models will provide huge upgrades in terms of energy efficiency. For example, a new Ruud HVAC air conditioner provides a SEER rating of at least twenty. The SEER rating represents the unit’s seasonal energy efficiency. The higher the number, the more energy efficient your appliance. A minimum SEER rating of 13 is necessary for any appliance manufactured as of 2018 in the United States. A rating of 16 is considered energy efficient, while the Ruud’s minimum rating of 20 represents exceptional efficiency.

Other Energy Efficient Home Appliances

Aside from the HVAC, other home appliances are also available in energy-saving models. Replacing older units of the following appliances can have a dramatic effect on your home’s overall efficiency.

Clothes Dryer: Aside from the HVAC, your clothes dryer is the hungriest consumer of energy in your house. A dryer can actually consume, on an annual basis, more energy than a refrigerator, clothes washer, and dishwasher combined.

Clothes Washer: Energy Star-certified washers use 50 percent less energy, and 55 percent less water than other units. They also require less detergent, which can save you money on a weekly basis.

Refrigerators: A modern, Energy Star-certified refrigerator consumes 40 percent less energy than a unit produced in 2001.

Energy Efficient Homes FAQ

How Can I Make My House More Energy Efficient?

There are many ways to improve the energy efficiency of your household. You can employ the efficient structural elements described above, or replace your older appliances. You can also practice certain easy habits. You can lower your thermostat in the winter, and raise it in the summer. Even a couple degrees will make a huge difference to energy usage. You can also practice mindfulness in regards to your water usage. For example, cut a minute or two off your shower time, and turn off the tap as you shave or brush your teeth. You can also replace outdated, incandescent bulbs, and unplug electronics when not in use.

What Are the Most Energy Efficient Home Ideas?

If money is no option, you can pursue several major changes for a more energy efficient home. You can install solar panels, for example, and through energy exchanges dramatically  lower your energy bill. The type of roof you have is a huge player, with materials like metal, clay tiles, or slate offering greatly improved efficiency. You can also replace your old fiberglass insulation with SPF spray foam, a material that can create a comprehensively sealed thermal envelope.

What Are the Most Energy Efficient Home Building Materials?

Some of the most energy efficient building materials you can employ are bamboo plywood, spray foam insulation, radiant barrier sheathing for your walls and roof, and insulated concrete forms. This last material is created through the integration of insulation into concrete. As the material dries, you will have a building component that offers truly permanent energy efficiency.

How Can I Lower My Electric Bill in the Winter?

If you have an electric furnace, lowering your thermostat by a few degrees will have a major impact. Instead of turning up the heat when you’re cold, you can put on a sweater or other layer of clothing. Hiring a professional HVAC technician to perform maintenance and clean your furnace can lower this device’s energy consumption. You can also open your curtains during the day to take advantage of the sun’s light and heat. Closing curtains at night also has a positive impact, in that it helps your home retain heat.

At Vision Roofing LLC, we are huge proponents of energy efficiency, and help contribute to more energy efficient homes in Alpharetta, GA through our roofing installations. To learn more about what we can do, or to schedule a roof inspection, repairs, or replacement, give us a call today at (404) 410-1060.

Is the real deal always the best deal? Maybe not. For hundreds of years, homeowners across the U.S. and Europe have utilized slate for its extensive life cycle. Unfortunately, this natural material is difficult to come by, and it comes with a steep price tag. That’s where synthetic slate comes in!

What is Synthetic Slate Made Of?

Synthetic slate tiles are born from a mixture of plastic and rubber. The rubberized aspect is why the material is so resilient against impact damage. In fact, many synthetic slate products are classed at Class 4 impact resistance, the highest standard for roofing systems. The mold is often cast from natural slate, which is why synthetics are hardly distinguishable from the real deal.

Why Choose Synthetic?

Natural slate boasts over one hundred years of protection, so why choose a roofing system that only lasts for fifty? While slate comes with some wonderful benefits, these come with extensive maintenance requirements and a hefty price tag. Natural slate is so heavy, that it requires extra support reinforcement for your house to handle the additional weight.

Enter synthetic slate. The material comes in at a fraction of the weight of natural slate tile, and it costs half as much. Sourcing synthetic material is much, much easier than trying to find natural slate. Synthetics also won’t require specialized installation procedure. On top of the simplified installation and sourcing, you can also expect hardy weather protection and Class A fire resistance. 

Get Your Estimate on Synthetic Roofing Today!

There are countless materials that synthetic roofing can emulate, including:

• Clay Tile
• Slate Tile
• Wood Shakes
• Ceramics
• and Many More!

Maybe new roofing is just one item on your homeowner list with bedroom, kitchen, and bathroom remodeling in Georgia. If you’re ready to enhance your home with premium roofing, consider a new synthetic shingle material. Synthetics are manufactured for convenience and higher function. If you’d like to learn more about our Vision Roofing LLC synthetic roofing, talk with one of our specialists at (404) 410-1060!

It’s a project that every homeowner eventually has to face eventually, so why not take it head on? With a little planning, you can turn a scary roof replacement into a fantastic opportunity to improve the value of your home and enhance your property’s weather protection! Here are some tips to help you discover your perfect roof replacement material.

Popular Roofing Materials in the Residential Market

There are countless roofing materials in the residential market alone, but there is a popular handful that rises to the top. These include: traditional asphalt shingles, architectural shingles, metal roofing, tile, and synthetics. For first time homeowners, asphalt shingles and architectural shingles are highly cost-effective and simple to maintain. Experienced property owners often prefer reflective metal roofing (for its energy efficiency), though synthetics have also been rising in popularity.

What Type of Roof is Best for My House?

The answer to that question depends on your specific goals and priorities. When selecting a roofing material for your home, you’ll need to answer a few key questions first.

• Does this material fit within my budget?
• What are my expected maintenance and repair costs after installation?
• Will this material improve the value of my home?
• What is the expected lifespan of this roofing?

Your budget of course is one of the easiest ways to determine what roof alternatives are immediately off the table. Just make sure you factor in the predicted cost of maintenance and repairs spread out over the lifetime of the material. As an example, synthetic shingle installations have a higher starting cost, but they provide sturdier protection over a forty year lifespan. That means lower maintenance costs and more time before the next roof replacement. If you have the budget for a premium roof installation, consider what sort of material compliments your home’s current styling.

Get an Estimate for Your Roof Replacement!

Are you thinking about installing a new roofing system in the near future? We’d love to help you find your perfect roofing material! You can talk with one of our knowledgeable Vision Roofing LLC professionals at (404) 410-1060.