The Fabral Grandrib 3 and Grandrib 3 Plus metal roofing are, in Fabral’s words, “manufactured from only the best prime quality structural steel available—no seconds ever!”  The end is with another Fabral product, Enduracoat (TM) 2000 “Whether your application is new or ancient, commercial, agricultural or residential, Fabral’s panels and paint systems are designed to exceed your requirements and expectations.”  What’s the warranty?  For Grandrib 3 it’s a lifetime integrity warranty, a 30-year warranty against fade and chalk for walls and roofs, and a 10-year edge rust warranty against acid rain.  As expected the Grandrib 3 Plus warranty is even better.  It’s a lifetime film integrity warranty, a 30-year warranty against fade and chalk for walls and roofs, a 15-year edge rust warranty against acid rain, and a 25-year non-perforation warranty against acid rain for walls, 20 years for roofs.

Fabral describes its Horizon 16 product in the following manner.  “The elements can be tough on roofing materials, but Fabral’s Horizon 16 is up to the task. Horizon 16’s tough, metal construction brings maximum protection, low maintenance, long-lasting beauty and distinctive value to residential properties. Horizon 16 is incredibly energy efficient; many colors reflect the hot rays of the sun to keep homes cooler in the summer. While Horizon 16 weighs considerably less than a shingled roof, it is extremely durable—the fire resistant material can withstand strong winds yet maintain a silent, soothing sound during a rain storm. Horizon 16 can be installed over any solid decking, or in many cases, right over an existing roof.”  Since it’s a Fabral product, the warranty is as sturdy as expected; a Lifetime warranty, a 30-year chalk and fade warranty for painted, a 15-year edge rust warranty against acid rain, and a limited 20-year paint warranty on Bright Copper Penny.

Ultra-Loc is another in Fabral’s line of residential roofing materials.  “Ultra-Loc’s tough, metal construction brings maximum protection, low maintenance, long-lasting beauty and distinctive value to residential properties.”  The warranty includes a 30-year chalk and fades warranty for painted, a 15-year edge rust warranty against acid rain, and a limited 20-year paint warranty on Bright Copper Penny.

The picture is clear.  The Fabral roofing warranty is solid, for any product.  More information on all of Fabral’s products, including the Fabral roofing warranty for each, can be found at their web site http://www.fabral.com.

EPDM is ethylene propylene diene M-class rubber with a benefit of not polluting run off water.  This means the water falling from the roof can be re-used for sanitation purposes.  Since harvesting rainwater is an element of the green movement, EPDM roofs are well loved in green projects.  EPDM roofing, like TPO roofing is a membrane product.  It is commonly used in huge box stores with large open areas.  Chances are if there’s a Walmart around it uses an EPDM roof.

First used as a roofing material in the 1960’s, efforts to recycle it started in the early 1990’s.  Currently there are more than 1 billion square feet of EPDM new roof coverings installed every year, with over 20 billion square feet already installed.  In 2007 the EPA raised the recycle bar calling for 50% of roofing materials used in any new project to be recyclable.  The EPA conducted a study in 2007 to determine if EPDM could be recycled to that level.  Although the results were positive, some questions remained as to whether the material could be produced in enough quantity to be useful.

The EPDM Roofing Association, or ERA, is a trade association for EPDM.  According to this group,  “Since the early 1960’s, EPDM single-ply rubber membrane roofing products have gained wide industry acceptance and respect by providing long-term, economically efficient, dependable roofing solutions for the construction community. Their attributes include long-term warranties, low life-cycle costs, reduced labor costs, minimal maintenance and user-friendly code approvals. The sustained growth of EPDM roofing systems is attributed to the development of complementary technologies that have made it possible for EPDM roofing systems to be beneficial in a wide number of applications. Architects and contractors have come to depend on this proven track record of performance. As environmentalists and code regulators place more emphasis on the long-term performance of building materials, EPDM has become an increasingly obvious choice. The need to provide the construction and roofing communities with current and accurate data documenting the many benefits of EPDM roofing systems led to the formation of ERA”.

Wind resistance is one EPDM benefit heavily highlighted by the EPA.  For buildings in hurricane prone areas, EPDM roofs that can resist winds of 120 MPH or more are highly desirable.

Metal roofs are made from a variety of metals.  These include the traditional aluminum and steel, as well as copper and a variety of alloys.  Modern metal roofs can be formed into shapes that imitate Spanish tiles, wood shakes, and even slate.  They can be given a variety of finishes such as granulated stone topcoats to complete a realistic imitation of nearly any other material.  

There are some negatives to a metal roof.  One consideration is the cost, with a typical square running from $150 to $600.  Another is the necessity of professional installation and maintenance, again adding to the overall cost of a metal roof.  But even with these negatives many people feel that metal roofs have benefits that make them worthwhile.  Speaking of cost, a properly installed and maintained metal roof can last as long as the house.  That means, over a typical home’s expected life, the cost of a metal roof is low compared to the cost of other roofing materials that might require replacement after 15 to 20 years.

Metal roofs are lightweight, fifty to one hundred fifty pounds per square compared to seven hundred fifty pounds per square foot for tile or 900 pounds per square foot for concrete tile.  Metal roofs can be installed right over existing roofs without installing additional support.  Metal roofs withstand high winds, snow slides off them, and they are resistant to mildew, insects and rot.

Pitch is another vital factor with roofs.  Many materials require a steep pitch to ensure water flows off the roof so that the roof won’t leak.  The pitch for a metal roof can be more shallow, with a typical recommended minimum being 3-in-12, which is three inches of height for every horizontal foot.  Consider the benefit of a less steep roof next time you have to climb onto it to clean the gutters, or retrieve a ball or Frisbee thrown there by a child.

Just as with other home projects that require a professional, the best way to find a metal roof contractor is through word of mouth.  Talk to friends and neighbors, or look for metal roofs around the neighborhood and question the home owners for the name of their contractor.  The Internet is a excellent source for pre-screened metal roofing contractors, as are architects who design homes with metal roofs.  The National Roofing Contractors Association can also help.  Their number is 1-800-USA-ROOF.

A cat on a hot tin roof may not be a excellent thing.  But if you want a long lasting roof for your home, consider that traditional wood and shingles are excellent, but metal is better.

The MRCA or Michigan Roofing Contractors Association, is one of the top information sources for Michigan roofing.  This groups includes many chapters which are the ARCWM,  Associated Roofing Contractors of Western Michigan; the Flint PRO, Professional Roofing Organization; JLWRCA, Jackson, Livingston, Washtenaw Roofing Contractors Association; LRCA, Lansing Roofing Contractors Association; RIPF, Roofing Industry Promotion Fund; SVRCA, Saginaw Valley Roofing Contractor Association; and the SMRCA, Southeastern Michigan Roofing Contractors Association.  The MRCA maintains lists of roofing contractors and consultants, has information on roofing, and holds yearly meetings to keep its members updated on the latest in roofing techniques and technologies.

Michigan is one of the leading areas when it comes to the use of metal roofing materials.  This includes not only the older tin barn roof style, but modern styles that mimic the look of other roofing materials. Michigan’s cold, snow filled winters and hot summers test not only the shrinking and expanding ability of metal roofs, but their ability to shed water and snow.  But never walk barefoot on a metal roof.

One local Michigan roofing company is Hansons, a family owned company that prides itself on customer service and treating customers like family.  Hansons not only honors the manufacturer warranties on all its product, they add their own additional warranties.  These include a 10 year guarantee all the way up to a 30 year fully transferable guarantee.

Green roofing is becoming a more well loved subject, and Michigan State University leads the way in researching green roofing.  Green roofing is growing plants on a roof to replace the lost plants when the structure was built.  Soil, plants and even trees are elements of green roofing.  Research continues to determine the benefit of green roofing to the environment, the benefit of green roofing to a roof and a structure, and any negative impacts a green roof may have on a structure.

I’m rubber you’re metal, we’re both part of the wild world of Michigan Roofing.

There are other advantages to metal roofs.  In addition to those already mentioned, metal roofs are quick to install and fantastic at reflecting the heat from the sun.  It’s a common misconception that because it’s hot on a metal roof it will be hot under the roof.  But that heat is reflected away from the home.  If it’s hotter on top, it’s cooler down below the roof. 

Metal roofs are made mostly from aluminum and steel, but alloys such as copper are also used.  While the new metal roofs can mimic the look of other traditional residential roofing materials, some well loved styles retain a decidedly commercial look found by architects to give home clean lines. 

Surely it’s not all peaches and cream for metal roofs.  Metal roofs do have drawbacks which each homeowner must evaluate in relation to the advantages.  At about $150-$600 per 100 square feet, a metal roof is expensive.  But this expense can be recovered if the homeowner remains in the home for a long time, and metal roofs help save money by minimizing the need for maintenance of the supporting structure.  In a rain storm having a metal roof can be a small like living inside a drum.  A metal roof can be much louder than other types of roofs.  Using sound deadening insulation can help minimize the extra noise of a metal roof.  Metal roofs, particularly aluminum and copper materials, are soft and prone to denting from hail stones.  Some metal roofs, but, are guaranteed against denting.  Metal roofs can also be slippery when wet, something to keep in mind for gutter cleaning, inspection, or other maintenance that requires walking on the roof.  Some metal finishes can chip and peel, although again they’re generally guaranteed for many years against such marring.

A quick note on lightning for residential metal roofing is, don’t be worried. Metal roofs don’t attract lightning even though metal conducts electricity.  Metal roofs can also be grounded for extra protection.

When you wish upon a star, and residential metal roofing is where you are, look up at the bright light, and be pleased your choice was right.

Location, location, location is often discussed as the #1 rule in real estate, it’s just as vital when it comes to residential roofing.  Roofing needs vary by region and include such elements as ability to withstand tree limbs, wind resistance, fire resistance, ability to withstand or to allow snow to slide off, and even color when it comes to a excellent looking roof for the area.  Residential roofing needs are quite different in New Hampshire than they would be in Los Angeles.  For those who buy homes it’s vital to know the features and maintenance needs of the roof.  For those who build homes, particularly if they serve as their own general contractor, selecting the right roof for the region is a key.

Since purchasing pre-built homes is more common, let’s examine some of the maintenance issues that are vital to ensuring the best performance and longest life from the roofing system.  First amongst these issues is timing.  Proper maintenance should start as soon as the roofing system is complete.  Such maintenance will save money in the long run.  Immediate maintenance includes inspecting the work and checking the contractor’s license, insurance, and whether all aspects of the roofing system were installed to manufacturer’s specifications or to local government guidelines.

After six months to a year the roof should be inspected for debris such as sticks, leaves, and even garbage such as aluminum cans and that debris removed.  This should be repeated at least once a year.  Also further ensure proper drainage by cleaning gutters at least once a year.  If the residential roof can’t drain, it will develop leaks.  Leaks cause a fantastic deal of hurt, including the possibility of mold that can completely ruin a home.

Pipe boot, the material at the bottom of vent and other pipes on the roof, often require replacing after only a few years.  This is particularly right in states like Oklahoma that don’t require pipe jacks to be made out of long lasting lead.

Many roofers convince home owners that the entire roof needs replacing even when there’s only a tiny leak. That’s nonsense.  And the best way to avoid the scam is to have the roof inspected twice a year, once in the spring and once in the fall.  An simple way to remember to have the residential roofing inspected is to do it when the clocks spring forward and fall back.

A base of glass fibers covered with ceramic coated granules is fiberglass asphalt shingles.  This is an inorganic shingle with a high fire rating and often a longer warranty (and life span) than other types of shingles. This shingle resists water and cracking.  It also tends to resist high winds, as tested by the Underwriters Laboratories.  Sounds like a winner!

Architectural shingle is an inorganic, three dimensional shingle.  It is made of multiple layers which gives it a depth and thus an appearance close to wood or slate roofing.  Disadvantages are weight and cost, both more than other shingles.

Roll roofing is less expensive than shingles.  It can be used on roofs with shallow grades or on steeper roofs as a compliment to shingles.  Most people have seen this type of roofing, most often on industrial buildings.  It has a heavy felt base, saturated with asphalt, covered by a smooth or mineral surface.  Simple to install, this type of material will last between 10 and 20 years.

Steel panels used in place of shingles, metal roofing, are also well loved.  The best steel panels are made with zinc. Like roll roofing this is most common on industrial buildings.  It is durable, withstands fire, and lasts a long time. 

Wood shingles are the oldest type of shingle.  Cedar is the most common wood used for these shingles, but many consist of a variety of woods.  These are more hard to install than asphalt shingles. As expected wood shingles are susceptible to fire. A fire-retardant coating reduces the flammability, but does not eliminate it.

A roof has other elements in addition to the shingles.  These are not shingles or tiles or total roof coverings, but nevertheless are elements of a roof.  Flashing consists of strips of sheet metal or roofing material used to cover joints, to make the joints waterproof.  The boot is a flashing made to fit around the base of a vent pipe.  The boot is sometimes plastic.  A Drip Edge is an “L” shaped, weather-resistant material placed at exposed roof edges to shed water and protect the roof’s wood parts. Felt paper, or building paper, is a sheet with a tough, fibrous base saturated with asphalt installed under shingles. Building paper helps keep water away from the wood frame under the shingles.

A fantastic source of information on roofing materials is the Internet.  The more you know the less likely you are to get wet.

In the ancient days wood roofing shingles were considered excellent.  But eventually asphalt and asbestos cement replaced wood as common materials.   Today fiberglass based asphalt shingles are the most well loved roofing shingle used in the United States.  The obvious issue with wood is fire, and fire is the reason wood and paper backed shingles are used infrequently in modern construction.

Most people have seen a special type of wood shingle, but wouldn’t be able to identify it.  It’s called a shake, a wooden shingle made from split logs.  Shake roofs were commonly used in building log cabins, and with many wood frame homes.  They’re still in use today, most commonly transported by helicopters, but it wasn’t always done that way.  Before the invention of helicopters the shakes were tied into packs and transported by pack animal or even by human power.  Often cut in hilly areas, they were carried down the slope with the help of a long line run from the bottom to the top.  This line served as a hand hold so people carrying the shake packs wouldn’t fall.

The main difference between a shingle and a tile is flexibility.  Tiles are generally made from ceramic.  They’re brittle and ill suited to locations where tree limbs might impact a  roof.  Shingles are flexible and therefor better able to stand up to tree limbs.  Wood shingles rot, while ceramic tiles don’t., but modern materials such as the asbestos base for most shingles don’t rot.  Another main difference is the shape.  Roofing shingles are flat, while ceramic tiles commonly have an “S” profile to allow them to interlock for strength.

Believe it or not slate is also used for roofing shingles.  Because of both cleavage and grain slate can be easily split into thin sheets.  Such sheets, the slate shingles, make for an rustic look for a roof.  Slate roofing shingles are installed by a slater, a tradesman trained to work with slate.  The same qualities that make slate brilliant for roofing shingles, it is fireproof and an electric insulator, made it useful for early 20th century switchboards and relay controls on large electric motors .  Imagine that, making a phone call on your roofing shingles.

Nothing beats a slate cutter for cutting slate and shingles.  It cuts through most roofing materials like a hot knife through butter.  Industrial versions cut 1/2” thick shingles easily.  Some models have a punch to get them started, which also offers better control in the cutting process.

Shingles and refuse can be disposed of by trekking to the edge and tossing them to the ground, right?  Incorrect!  Use a ridge bucket.  These buckets are designed to hug the roof so they don’t slip even on a steep incline.  It’s safer and quicker to use this bucket to dispose of materials.

Use a hip runner to install ridge cap and hip ridges perfectly straight every time.  Of all the roofing tools this is one the contractors always have, but do it your self enthusiasts rarely consider.

Seaming pliers are another vital roofing tool.  They’re for yanking shingles, especially stubborn shingles that seem to have a mind of their own intent on staying in place.  Seaming pliers have teeth to grip the shingle without tearing it.  Add a excellent pair of thick work gloves to save your fingers and hands from scrapes, bruises and blisters from gripping and pulling rough shingles.

A slater’s hammer has a hammer head, as well as a small ax and a blade on the opposite side.  This roofing tool can be used both for removing the ancient roof and installing the new roof.  It’s also useful as a regular hammer and with the ax and blade for other projects besides roofing.

Most local hardware stores rent these tools as well as sell them.  This way a roofing novice can use the best quality tools rather than one that’s cheaper to buy.  Keep in mind too that knowledge is a roofing tool as vital as any other.  Local hardware stores, as well as the Internet, are fantastic sources of information on roofing and roofing tools.  Between books they carry and staff on hand who can give you advice, they can prepare a person for every step of the roofing process.

First it’s time to dispel a rubber roofing myth .  It’s perfectly fine to install rubber roofing over an existing roof.  After all, it saves time from removing the ancient roof.  And in areas where the ancient roof is intact there’s double protection.  Incorrect!  Whatever the other reasons, no roofing manufacturer will honor a warranty of a roof that has not been installed on a completely clean surface.  Removing the ancient roof is a necessary step one, even with a rubber roof.

Rubber roofs are simple to self install.  They come in a variety of styles of both rolls and shingles.  An ideal material for large flat roofs, rubber roofing will last for years, and won’t split or crack.  Rubber roofing breathes and expands in response to weather changes, so it experiences less stress than other roofing materials.  In fact the first rubber roof, which was installed in Wisconsin in 1980, is still in perfect condition after nearly three decades of service.

Both rolls and shingle rubber roofing is attached to the roof surface with adhesive.  Therefore make sure the roof is as clean as possible with nothing sticking up which could pierce the rubber.  The surface must be dry and free of oils or dirt.  Use a blower or broom to clear away dirt and debris.

Once the base is clean, the rubber roof can be rolled out onto the area being covered, and cut to fit over vents and pipes.  Do not apply adhesive until the rubber roofing is cut and shaped.  Reckon about it, you’ll know why.  {Once|When} it has been fit then apply adhesive to about one half the roof at a time, rolling it back to apply the adhesive.  Apply it evenly and give it time to set up, to become tacky.

The roofing will be nearly impossible to lift once it’s stuck.  So once the adhesive has set carefully roll the rubber roofing into place.  Let the first half dry for about an hour before repeating the process with the second half.

The home or building now has a rubber roof.  Imagine that.