SB Roofing Blog

Remember the home energy tax credit? That was extended through the end of 2011. If you need to fix a roof, or need a new roof, now is the time. If you have not had a roof inspection for a while, have it done now. If you need any roof repairs, or if you need a new roof as a result of your roof inspection, get it done while you can take advantage of the home energy tax credit.

You may claim a credit for 10% percent of the total cost of the metal roofing or asphalt shingles, or new energy efficient skylights for your existing primary residence.

There are a few rules and restrictions, however:

• The maximum combined credit is $500 (10% of $5,000 in total cost) for all allowable products purchased between 2006 and 2011.
• The credit is for the price of the product only, not labor.
• Energy tax credits are nonrefundable, which means you can only claim a credit to offset taxes you owe for the year.
• Tax credits may only be claimed once and are limited to the year in which you purchased the item.

If you are in need of a new roof or need a roof inspection, or if you are installing energy efficient skylights, contact SB Roofing.

Metal Roofs are increasingly common not only due to the fact of cost but for the reason that of versatility and green capabilities.

Whether you want to replace your old roof or are considering the what roofing material to add to your newly built home, a metal roof will complement any home.

What makes metal roofs more attractive to homeowners is its long-term durability. Metal roofs are “green” and aesthetic. There are many colors to select from. The characteristics of metal roofs, from price to longevity to durability to aesthetics are what draw architects, homeowners and builders to metal roofs.
 
Metal can survive the high winds seen in Virginia and keep out water. They can also effortlessly shed winter snow. But metal has another benefit, they keep houses cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter, generating more energy efficient and environmentally friendly homes.

Resistant to fire, mildew, insects, and rot, metal roofs last a life time. Contact SB Roofing for more information on metal roofs.

Residential metal roofs provide energy savings, beauty, and protection for your Virginia Beach home for a lifetime. Metal roofs are also available in a wide variety colors to complement any style home. Metal roofs last 2 to 3 times longer than most other roof types. A metal roof will probably be your last roof.

The main benefit of metal roofing is that it can help to increase the efficiency of your home.  This increase in energy efficiency saves you money. Residential metal roofs utilize reflective pigment technology.  It reflects heat away from the home rather than absorbing it like other roofing materials thus lowering utility bills.

All metal roofs are made from 30-60% recycled material, so by choosing a metal roof, you'll do your part for the environment. Traditional shingles add an estimated 20 billion pounds of waste to U.S. landfills annually. Metal roofs can often be installed over an existing roof, no more tear-off and disposal.

Contact SB Roofing for an estimate on a metal roof for your home.

Hire the right roofer. Being selective and ensuring that you do your research on the company you choose to do your roofing is very important. When we were thinking about what to blog about this week it came to us on a Google search. Some of the top roofing headlines from around the country say:

"….Roofer agrees to refund homeowners"
"…XXX Roofing used deceptive practices"
"…XXX-Based roofer agrees to pay restitution"
"…Roofer to pay for misleading homeowners"

This is true; these are the headlines we found. These types of roofers put all roof installers to shame. Did you know that most roof issues are a result of bad installers? Poor installation around the chimney, seams where two roof sections meet, and skylights are the cause of most roof leaks.

SB Roofing is committed to providing our customers with the highest quality residential roofing materials, service and workmanship available in Hampton Roads. Our goal is to offer you the most economical solution for your roofing needs.

From simple roof repairs to completely new roofing systems, SB Roofing, Inc. would appreciate the opportunity to become your roofing company. Contact us.

Overall, metal roofs perform better in hurricanes than asphalt or other types of roofs. In fact, Sal Alfano of Remodeling Magazine reported that homes renovated with standing-seam metal roofing show a rate of up to 95.5% cost recouped for homes in the Eastern states, and 6% resale value gain over homes roofed with asphalt.

Over time you'll save money on metal roofs too even though the initial cost is higher than most other roofing materials. The good news is, metal roofs lasts a lifetime, asphalt requires reproofing every 10 to 20 years. And as stated above, a metal roof can increase the resale value of your home.

But, it’s hurricanes that are on people’s minds, so you should know that most metal roofs have been tested to 90 psf uplift testing. That is very strong. Overall in a wind storm, metal will generally do better than asphalt. The best new though, is that metal roofs are just as wind resistant old as they are new. You won’t find that with shingles.

If it is time to replace your roof, contact SB Roofing, Virginia Beach.

Because of affordability and ease of installation, asphalt shingles have long been the first choice in residential roofing. However, metal roofs have slowly been increasing in popularity.

Though metal roofs may cost more up front than asphalt shingle roofs, they can be much more durable. Their lifetime spans anywhere from 40 to 60 years, as opposed to 15 years for asphalt. By choosing a metal roof, it's the last time most homeowners will have to put on a roof.

Besides longevity, metal roofs also can be more energy efficient - a "cool" solution because reflective coatings can be applied to the base metal and reduce how much heat enters a home.

Aesthetics are another plus. Standing seam roofs can also add vibrant color that withstands strong sunlight for decades.

Be sure to hire an experienced pro to install it since it takes more skill than putting on asphalt shingles.

Architectural shingles are also known as laminated or dimensional shingles. They are some of the highest quality shingles because they are heavier, and do not require additional support under the roof. They are used by homeowners who like a distinctive, upscale  look to their roofs. Their weight and design give a three-dimensional appearance. Some are nailed on, while others in addition to nails, have interlocking tabs. They are also attractive to builders because of ease of installation.

What are they?
Architectural shingles are made using a heavier base than a standard asphalt shingle. The base is made from fiberglass or organic materials, with some asphalt added. The back of the shingles are coated with a special material and granules are added to the top layer.

How long do Architectural shingles last?
In most cases they're designed to last for 30-50 years. They contain asphalt and minerals, are strong and flexible. They withstand extreme temperatures and other weather events. They are often available with a lifetime warranty.

Metal roofing is becoming a popular alternative to shingles because it is strong, aesthetically pleasing and exceedingly durable. Should you consider metal roofing for your Virginia Beach home? Other than a great appearance, metal roofing offers many benefits.

Long lasting
Metal roofing offers exceptional longevity compared to other roofing materials. Metal withstand adverse weather conditions much better than other roofs. Metal roofs look great for years with little to no maintenance.

Better Energy Efficiency
The main benefit of metal roofing is that it can help to improve your home's energy efficiency. It reflects heat away from the home rather than absorbing it like other roofing materials, so the home's attic stays much cooler. This increase in energy efficiency will lower your utility bills.

Value
Like many energy-efficient additions, a metal roof can also boost your home's resale value while making your home look great, boosting curb appeal and helping it stand out in a crowded real estate market.

Let's face it. Roof repair or replacement is job number one when considering home upgrades. Everything you do, from remodeling to painting to renovations, will be ruined without a functioning roof. Roof replacement is probably one of the most “boring” home renovations, but certainly is one of the most essential.

Roof Replacement is the process of removing the existing roof when in disrepair. Nailing over the existing roof is not recommended due to the added weight and increased chance of leaks. There are many factors that may cause a roof to fail, such as poor workmanship, faulty materials, inclement weather, age, and improper maintenance.

Your choice of roofing materials depends on your own personal taste and on the style of your home.

• Asphalt Shingles: Cheap and easily obtainable, but less attractive than other options due to "flat" appearance.
• Wood Shake: more expensive, but an attractive shingle.
• Metal Roofing: Metal roofing is less common, and few roofers install it; great for heat reflection and snow shedding.
• Architectural shingles or "Faux" Slate - Recycled post-industrial synthetics gaining in popularity.