Asphalt vs Metal Roofing: Which Is Best for Your Home?

When it comes to roofing, the majority of the homeowners do find it tough selecting the type of material to use. For some, asphalt materials make a suitable option. However, others do prefer metal roofing because of various reasons. The truth is, no material is better than the other. It just trickles down to your needs, preference and, above all, your budget. However, if you are stuck on which material is best for your home, here is a list of factors to consider when choosing between these two materials.

Cost 

When investing in your roofing, the cost of the materials will definitely play a factor. Comparatively, asphalt roofing will cost you less money to acquire than metal roofing. Additionally, the latter will also require more skill to install, which will add more to the general cost. That’s said, if you are running on a tight budget, then asphalt roofing will be your option.

Durability

Since roofing projects are expensive investments, you would want to install one that will last for a lifetime. Generally, there are lots of factors that can affect the durability of roofing materials. Nonetheless, with all factors constant, the metal roofing does promise to last long. Note that having a professional roofing contractor do your roof repair or installation can significantly increase their overall lifespan as per the manufacturer’s recommendation.

Maintenance 

One of the factors that are going to increase the durability of your roof is maintenance. That’s said, you should always go for a roof type that’s easy and convenient for you to maintain. Usually, the asphalt roofing will require you to do regular maintenance and care at an interval of approximately one year. Such inspection often includes checking valleys and pipe boots. Comparatively, metal roofing will require little or no regular maintenance. Occasionally, however, you can do an inspection only to check on future pending problems (though not a must).

Weather

Generally, roofs protect us from harsh weather elements such as high temperatures, storms, winds, etc. The asphalt roofing tends to be warmer during summer. However, they offer excellent protection from snowfall and precipitation. On the other hand, metal roofing tends to reflect more heat hence good for hot climates and summer. Also, metal roofing tends to report fewer accumulated snow or precipitation cases. That’s said, if you live in areas with extreme temperature fluctuation, then the metal roofing will take the way.

Final Thoughts

If you have adequate money spared for roofing, then metal roofing is the way to go. However, if you are running on a tight budget but still want something that will make your home valuable, you can think of asphalt roofing. All in all, your choice for the roofing type will solely depend on the above-mentioned factors.

Roof Maintenance You'll Need to Complete to Prepare for Winter Snowstorms

The warmth of summer might be dwindling, but there are still plenty of things to take care of before winter hits. Most people don't get a chance to enjoy their roofs during the season because they're too busy preparing for the snowstorms that will inevitably come. The good news is that you can get your roof ready for winter by completing these few maintenance tasks:

Scrape the Roof

The first thing you'll want to do is scrape off the top layer of your roof. It can be done without causing any damage to your shingles and will help prevent ice dams. Whether you do this yourself or hire a professional, your goal should be to remove as much snow and ice as possible. While you're at it, you should also check the gutters near your roof and clear them out if they contain a lot of snow.

Gutters

Cleaning out your gutters is another thing that can prevent your shingles from shattering when they freeze over. The snow and ice that collect inside your gutters make melting snow and wind easier to break through the roof. So instead of waiting until spring, go ahead and clear the snow out of your drains to help prevent water damage.

Seal the Roof

Sealing your roof is vital because it will help prevent any ice dam issues. It will keep water from getting between the shingles and freezing over so that you won't have to worry when there are significant snowstorms.

Clean the Chimney

It's not only your roof that ice dams could damage, but your chimney can too. The snow that might collect on the insides of your chimney can break off and freeze over, which will cause a lot of damage to your fireplace. Before winter, you should get up there to properly clean out the insides of your chimney to prevent this damage.

Fix Any Issues

You must do the necessary maintenance on your roof before winter hits to help prevent any major issues. If you have any shingles missing, now is the best time to replace them and ensure that everything looks suitable for the cold season. The residential roofing contractor that you choose should help with this and assist you when it comes to your roof.

Like any other home maintenance, residential snow removal is crucial for the safety of your family and the quality of your home. By maintaining your house's roof properly and removing snow regularly, you can prevent a lot of significant damage and make sure you are prepared for all types of winter weather.

Building Your Home May Be Cheaper Now Than Ever

We partnered with a building company for this post. The opinions in the post are honest. All reviews and opinions expressed in this post are based on our personal views. We are excited because we know you will love it.

The pandemic has changed a lot about life as we know it and has even caused some issues with supply chains and the demand for materials. As a result, many building materials have seen a dramatic spike in cost over the last two years. 

But, what if we suggested that building a home now may be cheaper than ever? 

You might think that sounds too good to be true, at first, especially with things like lumber costing so much. But, one thing the pandemic has changed is the way people live and want to live. Thousands of Americans are now working from home and spending more time there. So, many people are moving to more rural areas deemed smaller and safer. 

Unfortunately, that’s caused some house scarcity. It’s currently a seller’s market, so it might be difficult to find a house for sale right now that you can afford. That’s why building is such a viable option, even when you’re on a budget. 

Making the Investment

Whether you build or buy a home, it’s an investment. 

Building, however, is often considered an “alternative investment” because you can consistently boost your home’s value over time. Some key construction features that add value to a home include: 

• An open-concept floor plan (especially in kitchens)

• Ideal lighting

• Smart home technology

• A basement and garage

You can also get the most out of your investment by considering things people might need while working from home and spending time there. Having a specific area for a home office or a gym can make a big difference. If you ever decide to sell the house, putting in that initial money and time will likely get you a nice profit, so it’ll be easier to finance your next house. 

Working With the Right People

One great thing about the current housing market demand is that it’s created competition within the construction industry. 

Streamlining construction processes with a project management firm is a crucial aspect that architects must integrate into their design strategies. Collaborating with experienced project management firms can ensure efficient coordination, timely execution, and cost-effectiveness throughout the construction phase. This not only enhances the overall project delivery but also contributes to a smoother and more successful construction process.

Why does that benefit you? 

The more home builders and contractors in your area, the more they’re going to have to work to make themselves appealing to you. That typically includes things like special offers, discounts, payment plans, or other extras that will make you choose them over a competitor. 

When you hire a custom builder, they’ll work with you from start to finish on everything from the design to the actual construction. Is it another investment? Yes. But, consider the fact that the average sale price of a home in 2021 was over $400,000, and the average cost to build was just under $300,000. Plus, building allows you to customize exactly what you want/need, so you won’t need to make additional upgrades or repairs like you might if you purchased an existing home. 

Make sure, however, that you’re aware of potential scams when it comes to construction companies. Higher demand for home construction means more competition, but it also means there will be people who want to take advantage of you. Avoid contractors who: 

• Won’t provide proof of licensing

• Ask for payment upfront

• Offer limited-time deals or try to pressure you into working with them

• Fail to provide a contract

The last thing you want is to work with a “professional” who is out to scam you and take your money. While the prospect of getting your new home built quickly is exciting, don’t let your enthusiasm cloud your judgment. Pay attention to red flags. 

The bottom line? With a bit of research and a willingness to make a solid investment, you can absolutely build a new home on a budget, and end up spending less than you would on an existing home purchase. If you’ve ever wanted to bring your dream home to life, now is the time to do it! 

Winter Maintenance Tasks That Every Homeowner Should Do This Year

Before harsh winter weather locks you and your family indoors, there are a few maintenance tasks you should do in and around your home. If you ignore these tasks, winter weather can cause damage to your home and increase your energy bills.

Inspect the Roof

You should inspect your roof for damage before winter. If summer storms have caused any damage to your roof, winter weather will cause further damage. Summer hailstorms can dent the shingles, and shingles with dents will lose their waterproof abilities. Melting snow will seep under the shingles and cause water to leak into the attic.

Clean the Gutters

Clean the gutters of leaves and debris. If the gutters are clogged, the water from melting snow will have nowhere to go and could cause an ice dam on the roof. An ice dam forms when water freezes at the edge of the roof and creates a dam. This traps melting snow, which could then leak into the home.

Turn Off and Maintain Air Conditioner Units

Turn off the power to your central air conditioning unit. If the AC is accidentally turned on during cold weather, the compressor could be damaged. If you don’t know where to turn off the power to the AC unit, an air conditioning repair company will show you where to turn it off.

You should then remove all debris like leaves, twigs and grass clippings. You can use a hose to clean it. Use foam weather stripping around any openings in the AC unit to keep cold air out of the home and cover the air conditioner. This is a good time to have AC professionals check your unit for any repairs that may need to be done.

Check Your Furnace

Replace the filter for the furnace. If it is a permanent filter, clean it thoroughly. The furnace filter should be changed every three months or more often if you have pets. Turn on the furnace before cold weather to ensure it is working properly. You can also have an HVAC company perform a maintenance check on the furnace.

Seal Windows and Doors

Drafty windows and doors can make you feel cold all winter and force you to keep the furnace on longer, which raises your heating bills. Check around windows for cracked or missing caulking and apply new caulking. Apply foam weather stripping around all exterior doors and make sure the door sweep is adjusted properly to keep out cold drafts.

These winter maintenance tasks will help you stay comfortable during the winter and prevent possible damage from freezing temperatures and winter storms.