Patio Roofing - Your Best Option

If you're looking for patio roofing options, you've come to the right place.

First off, if you're at the design stage of the project, you are best served by putting the patio under the main roof of your home. Typically, that would have a sloped roofing system such as asphalt shingles. This strategy eliminates low-sloped roofing products entirely, along with their high cost and relatively short life.

If you are adding a patio, avoid the type of lightweight metal roof panels that are typically attached to manufactured homes for carports and such. Not only are these products vulnerable in high winds, they won't withstand foot traffic. And if you can't walk on it, you can't service it when needed.

But there is a structural metal panel that words pretty good for patio roofing. It is a composite of polyurethane foam that is sandwiched between two layers of aluminum. The foam provides insulation and the panels can withstand some foot traffic. To be safe, I walk on plywood when working on this type of roof to distribute my weight.

Moving onto a more conventional option for your patio roofing, the most important thing to remember is that you need to have positive drainage. This can be accomplished with a slope that is as low as 1/4" per foot. If you don't have it in the structure, install a tapered system between the roof deck and the roofing. Almost any low sloped roofing system can succeed with proper drainage. Virtually none will succeed without it.

For over a hundred years, the traditional choice for low-sloped roofing has been a built-up roof (BUR) with gravel surfacing. The multiple layers of felt, each set in a layer of hot asphalt make for a thick, heavy-duty roof system that is tough to beat. But this type of roofing is on the decline due to the hazards associated with hot asphalt. Insurance companies are demanding outrageous deductibles for hot tar accidents, which is cooling the market for BUR, especially on small residential jobs.

A popular alternative for patio roofing is torch-applied modified bitumen, or just "modified" as it is commonly called. It is a rolled roofing product that is specially formulated to accommodate temperature changes. Unfortunately, the torch application can easily start a house fire... and often does.

There is a family of plastic and rubber roofing products called "single-ply" that can be installed without torch or kettle hazards. But the inherent problem with single-ply roofing is just as the name implies: There is just one layer of waterproof protection. Something as simple as a dropped tool or a discarded cigarette butt can cause a leak. And if there is any ponding at all, the seams must be PERFECT to prevent water intrusion. Perfection is a lot to expect from anybody, including us roofers.

Fortunately, there is an excellent option for your patio roofing. It's a hybrid that combines the best features of two different systems. It starts with a nailed down base sheet over a tapered roof deck. Then a smooth-surfaced, self-adhering mid-ply of modified bitumen is installed. Finally a self-adhering modified cap sheet with white granular surfacing is installed.

This system gives you the back-up protection of a built-up roof and the flexibility of modified, without the dangers of torches and kettles.

For more information on these patio roofing options, check out Chapter Two of "Roofing Secrets: How to Avoid Leaks and Save thousands of Dollars!" by John C Bishop.

For details, go to: http://www.roofingsecrets.com

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Stair Building Video For Great Advice

Stair building tips for installing lights and decking, handrail tips and some deck advice.

For more helpful home improvement information visit: http://www.gregvan.com

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Home Improvements - Getting Them Done on a Budget

If you are a typical homeowner, you have probably thought about remodeling. If you are getting ready to sell, it might be a good idea to do a bit of updating, and improve the value. You have to be sensible, though, so of course you will want to get the upgrades done for the lowest amount. Not spending too much is an important consideration, but that does not mean you want a cheap result.

Real estate is a serious undertaking, and if you don't do things right, you could over-invest. This is just as true for a remodel of just a single room as it is for a renovation of the complete property and everything on it. For most of us, hiring a professional contractor is a necessary part of getting the job done. The criticality of choosing the right service firm for the job cannot be emphasized too much.

According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), homeowners should be aware of the scams of bogus firms. The FTC has published warnings about these red flags that your contractor might be trouble:

* Insists on a quick decision
* Wants full payment up front
* Offers you a cheaper price for finding other customers
* Accepts only cash payments
* Has to ask you to obtain the necessary city permits
* Offers you a discount due to having extra material for some random reason

Those are some of the warnings that you should walk away from the deal. Sometimes a bogus contractor will try to get you to borrow from a company that they suggest. The worst case scenario of a home improvement loan scam could leave you out in the cold.

There are several things you can do to keep from being taken. Interview your prospective contractors carefully. The FTC recommends that you ask about the length of time they have been doing business, their license details, and insurance coverage. Check with your city building office. To put it simply, ask around. These steps are not unlike the normal steps you take for any significant purchase.

Another important technique is asking for recent references. Not only should you collect a list of former customers, but you should call and checkup on them. Ask these references about the quality of the work and service.

Ensure that your payment terms are clear and agreed upon before they start. Some local laws do set limits on how much higher the actual cost of a project is allowed to be above the estimate. Check into the laws in your area. In any event, don't pay until you are satisfied with the work.

Joel D McDonald recommends AutomatedHomefinder.com when you are looking for your perfect home in Colorado. For Louisville real estate or anywhere in the Front Range area, try Automated Homefinder.

Asphalt Shingle Roofing - The Facts

Is it any wonder why almost 80% of homes in North America use asphalt shingles as the roofing material of choice. The prevalence of asphalt shingles has created a vast assortment of fittings and fixtures designed to work with them. Items such as a multitude of flashing configurations, edge products, and almost every skylight manufactured has an appropriate base configuration for a weatherproof connection with asphalt shingles. All of the material that you need for a proper installation, such as the shingles, tarpaper, nails, vent boots and chimney flashing are available at any home improvement retailer.

The primary attributes of asphalt tiles are:

• reasonably priced (economical),
• require very little maintenance,
• versatile,
• provide excellent protection on steep sloped roofs,
• are weather and sunlight resistant,
• easy to cut,
• can be nailed by hand or with powered nailers.

There are two different types of asphalt shingle base material construction - composition and fiberglass. Composition shingles use a base material termed organic felt, which is a blend of paper and wood fibers. Fiberglass, on the other hand, uses a base that is comprised of a fiberglass mat. In both cases, once the base material is produced it is soaked in an asphalt compound. In numbers sold, fiberglass leads the market. They are less expensive, weigh less because they are thinner, have a longer wear life and have a better fire rating than the composition base shingles.

Average cost of a shingle roof is $50 to $150 per square, installed. Removal of old shingles will cost between $30 and $50 per square.

Both types of asphalt shingles are manufactured with embedded mineral granules. Seeing the granules in your eaves trough (after the initial installation) is a sure sign that you need to repair or replace the shingles.

Where just a few years ago asphalt shingles were only available in simple tab configurations in blacks, grays and browns, the manufacturers have expanded their product lines to include a vast array of colors, profiles and with the use of laminate coatings have created as assortment of eye pleasing textures. Special chemicals are also being blended into the shingles to make them mold and algae resistant. Although these additional features do increase the price per square, asphalt shingles are still the most economical roofing material available.

Drawbacks:

The serviceable life of asphalt shingles is the lowest of all the roofing materials. Although they are available in numerous grades designated by the expected life, from 15 to 50 years they often need repair or replacement long before their supposed life has expired. The hotter the climate, the shorter the life of asphalt shingles. Many of the asphalt shingle problems that are encountered by homeowners are a direct result of two factors:

• poor initial installation
• damage due to sever weather

Poor installation usually occurs in the area of deck preparation, and not providing adequate flashing around items that are protruding through the roof such as vent pipes and chimneys. Other poor installation methods are not using the required amount of nails per shingle and nailing in the wrong area of the shingle. There are many fly-by-night roofing companies that will quote low prices, because they won't be around to stand behind the workmanship. Choose a roofing contractor carefully.

Roof Repairs:

You should inspect your shingled roof and all the flashing at least once a year and after any major storm such as a hurricane. Hurricane winds will remove entire shingles and lift others. Sun and rain can cause asphalt shingles to crack. You should also go into the attic and look up, any sign of daylight means that there is a hole. When inspecting the roof look for shingles that have lost the granule minerals - bald spots, cracked and/or curled.

If you have to make a roof repair, choose a warm day so that the shingles will be flexible and unlikely to crack when lifted. The roofing cements also spread easier in warmer temperatures.

You will know when you have a roofing problem when you see beige spots appearing on ceilings and walls close to the ceiling. Beige spots are a sign of water damage.

Maintenance:

Roofing cement is the equivalent of duct tape for roofs. It will repair most leaks, cracked or torn shingles, patch flashing around vent pipes and chimneys. You can also use the roofing cement to cover nail heads that have been exposed.

Shingles fade with age so any replacement shingles used will most likely be visually obvious. Shingle over damaged ridge shingles, by nailing down all the corners of the old shingle first - do not remove them.

If you have to replace an entire shingle, lift each of the tabs and pry the nails out of the shingle of the one that needs to be replaced. Remove the top corners of the replacement shingle and very carefully, without damaging the tarpaper, slip it under the existing shingles.

Use roofing nails (large head, galvanized) to fix the new shingle to the roof decking. Use roofing cement to cover the nail heads.

Planning and knowledge are the keys to any successful home improvement, remodel or landscaping project!

For additional information on roofing materials for your home or other renovation projects, including landscaping, visit Renovation Headquarters

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Durable Metal Roofs - Many Affordable and Long Lasting Options For Metal Roofing Materials

Metal roofing in today is the perfect alternative to traditional roofing materials. In fact the new metal roofing materials serve as one of the best answers to the need of fire-resistant, lightweight and durable roofing that looks smart on your house. Metal roofs are favored by many home owners because they last for a long time and in addition offer many added advantages. Metal roofs are extremely cost effective and also very energy efficient.

Metal roofs come with a life expectancy of at least 30 years if not more, so if you plan to live in your house for a long time, your best option will be to go for durable metal roofing materials. Not only is metal roofing a good investment, it can also get you a discount on the homeowner's (fire) insurance.

The price of metal roofing materials may vary; it may start at $100 per square and go up to $600 per square depending on the material. Although the installation cost may be more than regular shingle roofs the re-roofing costs are very much the same. One major benefit of installing metal roofing materials is the fact that there is no need to tear-off old shingles; the new material can easily be applied over old layers of shingles.

There are some popular metal roofing materials which are commonly used like steel, aluminum, alloys etc. In this article we provide a brief look at the common choices to help you decide which option would be better for your home:

Steel: It is heavier than aluminum. For people who enjoy the look of slate or tile, lighter steel can present a similar look while being supported by your roof structure. Steel is also much sturdier than aluminum. In order to prevent corrosion or rust, many manufacturers make use of coating to protect the material.

Aluminum: Aluminum roof is a popular choice as it does not rust and also helps to reduce the sound of rain. Although you may feel the need to paint or coat it in order to enhance its appearance. This material is very lightweight and hence it is commonly used for residential metal roofing purposes.

Copper: It does not rust like aluminum and is soft which makes it easy to tool. The only drawback of this material is the fact that it is quite expensive and not everybody can afford to install this metal roofing material.

Stainless steel: This is a very expensive material. It will not rust or corrode. Also Terne coating helps to give it a natural matte gray finish which looks exquisite.

Alloys: Alloys guarantee durability and strength. In addition to that, you shall also find that they have the ability to weather gracefully which adds to the beauty of your home.

The above are the metal roofing materials that you can opt for. Although you might feel the need to hire professionals to install these, do not think twice about purchasing metal roofing as the benefits it offers are more than worth each penny you spend.

Now that you have a good idea about different metal roofing materials, go ahead and choose the best suited option for your home to give it an exquisite appeal and modern look for decades to come.

Click to learn more about Metal Roofing Materials and the Advantages of Installing a Metal Roof.

Toilet Paper Under The Bathroom

Roof Repair - Why Repair Your Roof After a Long Winter?

Every winter, your roof gets bombarded with wind, snow, ice and continual thaw-freeze conditions. This can result in severe and often hidden damage to the roof. Your roof can then leak during spring months when the heavy rains begin. Without a roof repair check-up and required repairs to your roof, a flood of water can cause thousands in damages - damages that could have easily been prevented.

Older roofs are especially vulnerable. Why? Because the shingles are already broken down from years of abuse from Mother Nature, and even if your roof has 5 or 10 more years of warranty life ahead, repairs to your roof are sometimes a must to get the most from your roof. Roof repairs are often mandatory.

Some of the areas your roof may require repairs are the loose or missing shingle that were damaged from hard winter winds. Shingles are extremely brittle in cold temperatures, and hard driven cold winds can easily break shingles. Flashing repairs are also important to repair because exposed nails and sealants such as caulking often dry out and fall apart. This creates open gaps for water to easily cause an enormous leak. The worst danger areas are around chimneys, skylights, and anywhere shingles butt up against a wall. These are all very crucial roof repair areas during the new raining spring months.

Most spring roof repairs, check ups (or tune ups) cost from $200-$500. $400 is a good price. It is always a good idea to hire a respectable roof repair company that can supply good repair references. Always check these repair references and make damn sure they are recent. A good roofing repair company will also deduct the cost of the roof check up from any additional roof repair costs. For example, if your roof requires $1500 of repair, the cost of the initial roof check-up will be deducted. Be sure to ask ahead of time to be sure this deductible is a part of the roof repair process.

Always be sure that a roofing company performing the roof repair check up looks in your home's attic. The underside of your roof deck tells a huge, accurate story of everything that is happening on your roof. Stains, rust where the nails are poking through the wood roof deck, water marks on the insulation, wet insulation, everything shows in the attic. Repairs are accurate using this method.

Your eave troughs also play an important role in any good spring roof repair tune up. Water can collect in the eaves due to plugged drainage. When water freezes it expands and bends eave troughs out of shape and out of position. Ice dams can also form playing real havoc to wood and shingles. A good roof repair tune up will check for and solve the damage before it is too late.

Spring is here. Now is the time to do repair to your roof. Roof repairs during the early months of spring after a hard blistery winter can literally save you thousands of dollars of damage and can keep your roof in tip top shape.

William Woolsey is the owner of Brookside Roofing and a Roofing/Attic Ventilation Specialist Serving Toronto Home Owners for Twenty-Five Years. Brookside Roofing Offers Residential Roofing Services and Roof Repair for Asphalt, Slate Tiles, and Cedar Shake Roofs

What Does A Gfi Do

Why Every Home Needs a Faucet Water Filter

You might disagree, but here me out on this. Every home needs a faucet water filter. There are so many contaminants in our drinking water that our health is being threatened every day when we turn on our faucets and drink unfiltered water.

USA Today reports in How Safe Is Your Water? "Each day, millions of Americans turn on their taps and get water that exceeds the legal limits for dangerous contaminants." And that report is only talking about the 85 contaminants that the federal government has set limits on. There are thousands other contaminants in our water that don't even have a limit set on them.

Faucet water filters will filter out these thousands of dangerous contaminants. If you are thinking that you mainly drink bottled water so you are safe, then you might want to take a look at bottled water.

First, let's look at the cost of bottled water, versus the cost of water from a kitchen faucet water filter. Let's say you buy the store brand of bottled water when it is on special. The least expensive I've found cost about 20 cents for a 20-ounce bottle, when you buy 24 bottles at a time. That makes a gallon of bottled water $1.28 cents per gallon. And if you buy it by the gallon, I've seen it as low as 49 cents a gallon.

That sounds like a pretty good price, but if you compare that to the water that comes out of kitchen faucet water filters, you would only have 9 cents per gallon. So the cost alone would be good enough reason to invest in a faucet water filter.

Second, let's look at the quality of the water. There are no government standards that require bottled water to be any better, purer or safer than tap water. You might want to think that the water in those bottles come from some pristine mountain, where the water is absolutely pure, but that is not the case.

I think we can agree that we would want our bottled water to be safer than tap water, but we have no guarantee that it is. If you're not convinced yet, read and think about the following statement by Jacquelyn Warren from the National Resources Defense Council. "The one thing we know for sure about toxins in our drinking water, is that the more we look, the more we find."

After reading that, you should agree with me that you want your water safer than tap water. So I think it is safe to say that bottled water is not the quality you are looking for.

When you look at water that has been through a faucet water filter, if you shop correctly you can be assured that the water you are drinking is safe and free from all contaminants. What I mean by shopping correctly is to look for certain things when you are looking at faucet water filters.

What you need to look for is a faucet water filter that uses more than one media or technology to filter out all contaminants. The different types that you need are a granulated carbon filter, a sub micron filter, and a multi block filter, and an ion exchange.

These filters combined will remove all dangerous chemicals and contaminants out of your drinking water, so you will be sure to have safe healthy water to drink. Don't settle for a filter that just uses one type of media to remove all contaminants. It just won't work.

If you are not sure what the faucet water filters you are considering to purchase remove from your water, ask to see the Performance Data Sheet. If you are buying online a reputable dealer should have that available for you to download and read before you buy.

If you disagreed with me in the beginning of this article, hopefully I've been clear enough and you now agree that every house needs a faucet water filter.

Juanita Ruby is passionate about health. She knows our bodies contain 70% water, thus the quality of our water greatly affects our health. Visit her website at http://www.your-best-water-site.com/ to discover which faucet water filter she trusts for her health.