Virgina Color Matters: Choosing The Right Roof Shingle Colors For Your House
Little did I know when I arranged to get a new roof that I quickly be faced with the decision about what color roof I wanted. Who knew that roof shingles came in so many colors? Not me — all roofs looked alike as far as I was concerned. But it turns out that choosing the best roof shingle colors for your house is critical.
There are many variations in roof shingle colors. If you’re a bit color blind, as I am, shingle color variations really don’t stand out. In fact, shingles come in several different color families with various shades and mixtures of colors and tones. When you look at a shingle up close you’ll see that the grains that make up the asphalt covering are often several different colors. You can actually use those color combinations when choosing a paint scheme for your home — selecting the paint for the body, trim, and doors from the shades on your roofing shingles.
The roof is a dominant feature on your house. Most roofs can be seen from the street and from your neighbor’s homes. Since you’re going to be living with your choice for some twenty years or more it’s important to put some thought into the selection.
The appropriate color for your roof shingles depends in large part on the color of the body of your house. So if you’re planning to also paint your house you’re going to need to make that color choice in advance in order to choose the appropriate shade for your roof. You want to consider both the color of the home’s siding and the color of the trim on the house.
Here are some color combinations that work well. If your house is:
Yellow — black shingles will look sharp
Red — consider brown tones
Green — a brown or gray roof works well
White — looks best with dark gray or black
Blue — dark gray or black shingles
Tan or cream — shades of brown work best
Natural wood — green is a good choice
Daring or offbeat choices are not wise when you’re re-roofing. It’s too big an investment and too long-lived a house feature to opt for the trendy or highly personalized choice. Your goal should be to harmonize with the neighboring properties rather than call attention to your home with an unusual choice. Look around your neighborhood to see what colors have been used. If you see a color that you like point it out to your roofer. He’ll be able to suggest colors that are popular in your area.
Best roof color choices are also impacted by the climate and weather in your area. Light colors will reflect sun and lessen heat build up, important in areas where high temperatures are the norm. In some areas white or very light shingles are popular choices to deflect heat. In colder climates a darker color will absorb heat and ensure that snow on the rooftop is quicker to melt.
Don’t be afraid to get some help when selecting your roof color. Some shingle manufacturers’ websites have online tools that show you how different color combos will look. You might consider enlisting a color specialist to advise you. It’s a small investment before this major purchase. Your neighbors might be able to help — pull over and ask if you pass a house with a striking roof and siding combo. And remember, your roofer does this for a living — he’s probably your best source for advice on what colors his clients have been most pleased with in the long run.
Virginia Maintaining Your Cedar Shake Roof
A cedar roof can give buildings a lovely natural appearance, and while wood is somewhat resistant to adverse weather effects, it experiences somewhat more of them than most other roofing materials.
If you have a roof made of a material like cedar shake maintenance is going to be a routine part of the upkeep of your roof. Most minor repairs can be done with basic tools and knowledge, and in this article we’ll go over the general aspects of basic upkeep for your wooden roof.
The first thing to do in cedar shake maintenance, as with any type of roof maintenance, is to clear off any excess debris that may have accumulated. Debris, especially of the organic variety like tree branches, leaves, garbage and dirt, can help water accumulate on the roof, thus causing damage to sealants and under layers.
Fungus and algae are a common problem on cedar shake roofing, and should be cleared off after debris. Flashings, which are long, thin strips of metal that are used to waterproof seams and angles, should be checked for holes or damage and replaced if necessary. Gutters and drains can also get clogged with debris and kept from working properly, and should be cleared out.
If there are overhanging tree branches, they should be trimmed back to minimize the amount of debris. Cedar shake maintenance will sometimes require you to check the chimney mortar and the mortar on surrounding surfaces, but if it is damaged it will likely require the attention of a professional mason.
The open valley metal should be checked for rust, and if rust is present, it should be brushed with wire and then primed, repainted, and coated with a protector.
There are numerous other hazards that can damage wooden roofing, such as falling heavy debris, which can crack or completely break cedar shake tiles. Cedar shake maintenance consists largely of keeping an eye on your roof for any signs of damage, and doing a few routine checks a year to look for water damage or cracked shingles.
Green Roof Replacement for Virginia home owners
If a home or business owner needs to replace their roof now is the time to go green. Replacing an existing roof with an environmentally friendly roof will cut heating and cooling costs. Another plus for a green roof is that the air conditioning units will have a longer service life.
One of the building materials that is being used is metal. Metal roofs can be laid right on top of the existing roof. The shingles wouldn’t need to be removed. This would make less waste for the land fills.
Metal roofs are more energy-efficient then the traditional shingle roofs because they draw less heat from the sun. They will emit the infrared rays resulting in less carbon emissions. The home or building will be easier to cool which will save energy.
Metal roofing comes in many colors. The lighter the paint colors the cooler the roof. Darker colors draw more solar energy from the sun. When choosing the building supplies make sure the paint is lead free. Lead contamination will lead to health problems. Also buy recycled metal if possible.
Styles of metal roofing materials vary. There is metal shake, metal tile, metal shingle/slate, or vertical panels available. The paint texture can be granulated or smooth.
If the roof does not need to be replaced it can still be made green. There are coatings that can be applied to make it more energy-efficient. White thermoplastic vinyl is one of the coating being used. It will reflect eighty percent more of the suns rays and emit seventy percent of the infrared heat.
Another way for green roof replacement is to use a solar reflective coating on the surface. The ceramic coating usually only comes in white. They are applied by professionals and mainly used on industrial buildings and warehouses. This application reflects up to seventy-five to eighty percent of the suns rays.
Nanotechnology heat reflective paints come in several different shades. They reflect up to ninety-five percent of the suns rays. The building stays cooler in the hotter months.
Reflective metal panels are specially coated to send heat back into the atmosphere. The material is durable to withstand weather.
Another kind of roof coating is made of recycled rubber and glass. This is a durable sealer that will reflect heat and be waterproof. Using it will make the existing roof more cost-effective. It can be applied by the home owner with a paint brush. The ingredients are non-toxic and non-carcinogen.
The flat roofs of commercial buildings can be spray coated with white, elastomeric, polyurethane coating. This type of coating prevents air infiltration because of the thermal barrier it provides. It will last many years with proper maintenance.
Urban areas typically are heat islands because of the black roofing materials they use. By treating existing roofs with lighter materials the temperatures would be reduced by five percent. This will also cut back on carbon emissions.
Going green with roof replacement is a good way to be Eco-friendly.
Virginia Roofing Options
When choosing the material for the roof on your Virginia home take the material’s lifespan into account because this dictates how long your roof will last before having to be replaced. And that has an impact on long term cost.
Roofing style, materials, and the climate in the area where the home is located are amongst the factor that affect the lifespan. Selecting roofing products with nearly the same lifespans will avoid piece by piece repairs over a ten to fifteen year period. In most cases, roofing materials last for about twenty years. That is if the roof has been maintained properly and there has been no significant weather damage. Some materials have a lifespan of as much as 50 years while some others last as little as 10 years. Here are some of the common roofing materials and their lifespans.
A properly maintained asphalt roof will last between 15 and 20 years. Because of the low cost and the ease of repairs, they are one of the most common types used throughout the nation.
The average lifespan of fiberglass roofing is from 15 to 20 years. Little maintenance is required and they come in many different styles and colors to match almost any desired look. Fiberglass roofs resist water and mold because they don’t have organic components.
Many homes in the northeastern portion of the nation use wooden shakes and shingles. These roofing materials will generally last for about 15 to 20 years, and can even last for as many as 30 years if they are well maintained.
With an average lifespan of 40 to 75 years, slate roofing materials are amongst the longest lasting roofing products.
Metal roofing can last nearly 50 years. They come in a wide variety of different colors, finishes, and styles to resemble other types of roofing materials such as tiles or wooden shingles. These products are nearly indestructible from weather and can be installed over the current roof.
A less well known option is rubber roofing. It’s easy to install, easy to maintain, and long lasting. It comes as a roll or as individual shingles. The very first rubber roof ever installed was in 1980. It’s still going strong after nearly 30 years.
You should contact your roofing contractor for more details.
Vinyl Windows – Should You Get Your Virginia Windows Replaced?
Windows in any building play important role in the environment and put in more beauty to it. In fact for me, the most sensitive point of the room is the window. Because it not only provides us with fresh air and beautiful view of out side but it gives a classy look to the building. As windows are the most important feature I have replaced all my old windows with vinyl windows for certain reasons and if you haven’t replaced your windows then must read on to understand my point of view.
If you don’t have much time and energy to spend on maintenance and cleaning of your windows like me, then you must think of replacing your old conventional Virginia windows with conveniently used vinyl windows. As they require no maintenance and they resist weather. Vinyl is a smooth material which can be cleaned with water or detergent. These windows are light in weight, give your room a light look and make the place roomier and brighter. These are made of non porous material so it will not absorb moisture during wet weather and breed mildew etc.
If you want to give a style and new look to your house, then you find the style that appeals you from the large variety available in these windows. These windows are designed to be eye catching and to fit in the style of almost any kind of home. They are durable and can be used for a very long time. This material has the capability to block out the harshest of weather conditions and offer insulation to your home and help save energy.
These windows are highly affordable, if you go for wooden windows with carved frames they will cost you much more, and maintenance would be another problem; energy saving and no painting requirement make them more economical, so it is better to install Virginia vinyl windows. Vinyl surface is smooth and reduces the damage of splintering and its assembling does not need exposed nails and metal attachment so they are safe in use. These windows are not only easily accessible, but are available in different variety and styles. As they are simple and easy to install so people love to bring them home, the professional window installers also prefer to install these windows as they get quickly installed with much hassle.
Vinyl windows are really a wonderful option for new homes and for the existing homes too, if you compare the benefits with your existing windows, then you will realize that you should get your windows replaced with vinyl windows.
Virginia Roof Repair Or Roof Replacement?
Here is the scenario that many Virginia homeowners have been in: The roof is leaking, it’s been on for 12 years and this isn’t the first time you’ve dealt with it leaking. The question going through your head is: Should I repair or replace my roof?
There are several points to consider when trying to make this decision and keep in mind that no two roofs are the same. So while there are general guidelines you can follow to help you decide, keep in mind that you know your roof the best and whether there are other considerations that you should make such as if you know that the roof was not installed properly.
Special Considerations:
o If more then 30 percent of the entire roof is damaged, or if there is extensive moisture damage to either the existing roofing layer or the structural deck, you should consider Virginia roof replacement.
o If your roof damage occurred as a result of a storm such as a tornado or hurricane, then you should certainly consider replacing the entire roof. In these situations, there are is often damage that you cannot see and it’s important to go ahead and replace the roof. Safety for you and your family is the most important factor.
o Is there a pre- existing condition on your roof that would make it beneficial to go with a full roof replacement?
Consider replacement if:
o You think your roof has a faulty design
o Improper material was used while constructing the roof
o There were past problems with mold or algae growth
Factors to consider:
o Interior Walls- Two sure signs of major Virginia roof repair are if the walls and ceilings in your home have moisture marks and if the paint on your walls and ceilings are peeling.
o Torn or Missing Shingles- Torn or missing shingles could be caused by many variables from heavy sun to tree branches being improperly removed from the roof. Sometimes torn or missing shingles are a sign of a simple roof repair but there are times that it is the clue that there are more serious roof issues. It’s always important to consult with a skilled roofing contractor who can help you determine the severity of the problem.
o Roof Layers- If you have more than 3 layers on your roof and are again experiencing problems then it’s time to replace.
o Roof Age- If you have an asphalt shingled roof of good quality material and installation than it should last between 15-20 years. If your roof is over 12 years and experiencing roof leaks associated with other roofing problems too then you should seriously consider replacement.
The Costs of Metal Roofing in Warrenton is Worth It
When it comes to Warrenton home renovation projects, nothing quite equals the enormity of replacing the roof on your home. There are materials to compare, prices to collect, and most often contractors to hire. As far as materials go – and which products offer the most bang for the buck – metal roofing often rises to the challenge. While the cost of metal roofing may be initially high, it eventually pays for itself in durability and a long life span.
Metal roofing differs from traditional roofing material in a number of ways. Metal is a durable material that is both fire and water resistant. Further, metal roofing can hold up to climatic changes as well as stressors it encounters under severe weather. For those who choose to install such material, the cost of metal roofing is a small price to pay for the piece of mind that comes with such durability.
Additionally, while the cost of metal roofing may be high upon installation, the roof itself can easily last in excess of fifty years. While traditional roofs often have to be replaced in twenty-five years, the metal roof can easily give you double the life span for a little more of an investment in the beginning. Also, unlike traditional roofing materials, metal roofing retains its color and authenticity in the face of weather conditions and sun exposure.
Like other roofing material, metal roofing is offered to customers in a variety of styles and colors. Of course, the final cost of metal roofing will depend on the amount of roofing material that you need to purchase for the specific size of your home. Installation is part of the cost of metal roofing. And while many homeowners will attempt to install the metal roofing themselves because of the ease of handling the metal sheets, installation is most often best left to a professional roofer. You will pay no more for installation of metal roofing then you would for any other roofing installation.
Work with reputable roofing companies that are experienced in handling and installing metal roofing. It’s always a good idea to find those homeowners that have used particular roofing companies in the past and have had good experiences with them. In this way, you can get a first-hand account of the company’s reputation, as well as check out the work they did on another home.
In the end, the cost of metal roofing – while clearly a little more than you would pay upfront for traditional roofing material – is well worth its price; giving you more than double the lifespan than you would normally receive from traditional roofs.
What is Liquid Siding and Should Virginia Residents Care?
Vinyl siding is used in nearly 40 percent of new, single-family Virginia homes, followed in popularity by brick, stucco, cement, and wood. But now, liquid siding has joined the competition for homeowners examining their options. This spray-on vinyl siding material is said to resist rot, corrosion and denting known to wood or aluminum siding products. So far, it is offered through professional liquid siding contractors and is not currently good candidate material for home do-it-yourselfers (DIY). That’s because its overall effectiveness is based on the preparation of the base surface and precision application.
Wondering how to apply this type of siding? If you’re considering a DIY project, think twice. All exterior fixtures must be removed, landscaping must be draped or protected, wall bases must be trenched to allow full coverage, and the exterior walls must be prepped through a pressure wash cleaner designed for liquid siding installations. Exterior surfaces showing moisture damage must be repaired, surfaces should be scraped and sanded, and all parts of the surface that won’t be sprayed (windows, soffits, etc.) must be covered, sealed, or caulked. This is all better left to a professional roofing or siding contractor.
Four-Step Application
At some point, there may be a DIY installation kit, but for now the process is handled by licensed siding installers. Much of this is due to the need for proper surface preparation. Manufacturers say that application is completed in a four-step process including surface conditioning, primers and sealers, thermal-coating, and a topcoat application. Liquid siding is said to resist chipping and peeling, as well as fighting off mold, water, and mildew. It’s produced in hundreds of color choices and can be maintained by water from your garden hose.
While today vinyl siding prices are reasonable, liquid siding offers a potentially even more cost effective alternative – even when factoring in labor.
Choosing the Best Replacement Windows For Your Virginia Home
If you’ve already made the decision to replace the windows in your Virginia home, you are probably well aware of the energy and cost saving benefits replacement windows can provide. Perhaps it is time to replace your old windows because the glass is shattered. Or maybe the there are leaks and gaps in the aged window frame that are beyond repair. Or, quite possibly, your energy bills have gone up tremendously in the past few years due to the poor insulation quality of your old windows. No matter what the reason you wish to replace your current windows with modern energy efficient ones, it is important that you choose the right Virginia replacement windows for your home.
There are certain factors that you should consider when shopping for new replacement windows. It is important to understand the different parts of a window and their function to make an informed decision and a smart purchase.
Take into account how you would like your new replacement windows to open. There are windows that open with the use of a crank and windows that slide up and down on the sashes. Many modern replacement windows can swing open from the top inwards to allow for easy cleaning. Double hung windows are the most popular, with a top and bottom panel. Both panels should be able to slide up and down. Crank-style windows (or casement windows) are not as prevalent in today’s homes because they are cumbersome to open and usually not made with energy efficient glass and materials.
Once you have made the decision on the type of replacement windows you want for your Virginia home, you must next determine the way you wish to install them. If your home has had damage to the existing window frames – including mold, rot, warping and termite infestation – you should remove the entire interior trim and total window unit completely. You will have to replace all aspects of the window in order to get the most energy efficiency, safety and security from your new replacement windows. In other cases, you may not have to remove too much of the interior unit if the wood is in good condition. Replacing a window can be as easy as removing the old and replacing it with the new, as long as the interior structure is in sound condition and has not been subject to moisture or pest infestation.
You can also replace windows by doing a sash replacement. This keeps your existing window frame in tact, but adds new sashes so the updated windows can tilt outwards or inwards for easy cleaning. You can install energy efficient windows with double or triple pane glass into the new tracks and receive the benefits of new replacement windows without majorly renovating your Virginia home.
Talk to a window installation professional to discuss window replacement and installation options that are right for your home. Once your new windows are installed, your home will be better insulated with a modern look, all while saving you money on energy bills.
Changing Your Virginia Home’s Look With Vinyl Siding
Changing the look of a home’s exterior is much easier than it sounds, especially in Virginia. There are several different coverings now available in vinyl siding to replace other finishes on homes. Installing vinyl panels on the exterior gives a clean, fresh appearance. There are many colors and finishes to choose from and there is less maintenance and upkeep.
Finishes
Vinyl finishes come in a myriad of styles. They are molded to imitate the look of other finishes while sustaining the durability of vinyl siding in Virginia. Visitors cannot usually tell the difference from the street. Wood veneer is one of the most popular types of designs with wide and fine wood grain patterns available. Also notable are brick patterns. The deterioration of bricks and mortar are eliminated and replaced by a solid panel instead.
Replacements
Many homeowners making the switch to vinyl siding in Virginia are replacing another material presently covering the exterior. For one reason or another, the former surface is not performing satisfactorily or it is simply time for a change. Many houses built with wood or metal siding are not ready for a new surface. After several years, wood does not wear well, especially in damp climates on the Mid-Atlantic that are prone to thunderstorms, hurricanes and winter sleet storms. Stucco finishes frequently develop moisture problems and must be replaced. One durable solution is vinyl siding.
Colors
The most popular feature about this material is the wide variety of colors available. While the standard white, gray and tan hues are mainstays of every vinyl siding company’s repertoire, shades of medium blues, bright yellows and deep reds are easy to find. They dot many neighborhoods and give a splash of color on a mundane street. The color is now baked through and through on the paneling. In the event of a scratch on the surface, it will not peek through with another color from underneath. It will blend in instead.
Maintenance
Colored vinyl siding does not have to be repainted every five to 10 years like most other home exteriors. However, it does require some maintenance. The house should be hosed off or power-washed at least once a year. This helps to protect the luster and shine. It does not every have to be repainted ever. In the case where a homeowner decides they do not like the color of the paneling after several years or after buying a new home, it can be painted over to another color. At this point, it will need regular painting maintenance thereafter. Other necessary maintenance for vinyl siding includes inspecting the home annually or after severe storms for loose siding and openings in seams at the roof and gutters. Caulking may be necessary from time to time as well.