What Are The Pros And Cons Of A New Roof?

September 22, 2021roofingRIslate15

Roofs protect us from the elements and are extremely durable, but they do not remain flawless for eternity. When you have lived in the same home for a really long time, there will come a point where you wonder to yourself if it is time for a new roof. Whether it is via a roof replacement or an entirely new roof altogether, an upgrade in your roof will be needed at some point or another if you plan on remaining in the same home for a very long time. Here are the pros and cons to consider if you are in the process of determining what to do with your current roof.

Pros:

Increased Curb Appeal and Aesthetics

One of the advantages of getting a new roof is the look of the exterior of your home once the project is finished. A new roof will make your home stand out significantly more than it did before. If aesthetics matter to you, a new roof will make you the exterior of your home even more.

New Material

When you opt to go with a new roof plan, you get to start fresh. If you did not like the roofing material on your home in the past, you get to pick its new course of action. The shingles, slate, tiles, etc, is entirely up to you.

A New Age

If you moved into a home that was constructed a long time ago and has seen very little renovation, the roof may be very old and worn down. By replacing the roof with a new one you are starting the clock again. Roofs usually last 25-30 years so you should only have to replace a roof once.

Cons:

The Cost

Probably the least desirable aspect of getting a new roof is the cost. A new roof has its benefits and it is worth it in most cases, but it will not come cheap.

The Construction

A new roof does not happen or appear overnight. It is a process that typically takes a week or weeks. You have to be willing to put up with the noise or distraction implementing a new roof may cause.

Living Situation

In some cases, it may be best to temporarily live away from the home that is receiving a new roof. Living away from your home, even for just a short period of time is not easy for everyone.

Professional Roofing Services in Smithfield, Rhode Island: Rhode Island Slate Roofing

At Rhode Island Slate Roofing, we can provide roofing installation, roofing repairs, and roofing maintenance. We proudly service many Rhode Island towns and cities. Contact us today if you are interested in roofing services.

The Benefits Of Clay Tile Roofing

August 16, 2021roofingRIslate15

When it comes to the roof on your home, there’s a wide variety of materials to choose from to get the job done. Different roofing materials have different benefits so each homeowner is able to find the perfect fit for their needs and budget. Clay tile roofing is a roofing choice that has been rising in popularity in recent years, and it’s no surprise when you hear all of the wonderful benefits that come along with it!

Long Lifespan

Some roofing materials have lifespans of less than 30 years. That means that before your mortgage is even paid off you may have to replace your roof again! Clay tile roofing truly stands out in terms of the expected lifespan. Clay tile roofing can last for up to a century! Your new clay tile roof will easily outlive your mortgage payments and your time in the home, so you’ll never have to stress about a new roof replacement again.

Low Maintenance

Clay tile roofing requires little to no maintenance at all. The hassle-free design is a major draw for homeowners looking to spend more time enjoying their home and less time maintaining it.

Interior Temperature Control

Clay tiles are great at allowing air to circulate around them. This will make it easier for the interior of your home to remain a consistent temperature because hot air won’t be trapped under your roof, affecting the temperature inside. Improved circulation and easier temperature control lead to lower monthly heating and cooling bills too!

Durability

Clay tiles are one of the most durable roofing materials on the market. They can withstand extreme hot and cold temperatures, as well as high winds and harsh rays from the sun. Clay tile roofing is also great at keeping insects and pests out of your home. If that’s not enough durability for you – it’s also fire resistant! This improves the overall safety of your home and offers extra peace of mind which is never a bad thing.

Great Curb Appeal

Functional and practical aspects are important but having a roof that looks good is important too! Clay tile roofing offers a wonderful curb appeal that can be incorporated into a variety of different design styles. You’ll love the way it looks and so will potential buyers in the future! Anything that improves the curb appeal and functionality of your home helps increase the resale value. If you ever decide to sell, you’ll see a good return on investment for your clay tile roofing.

Professional Roofing Services in Rhode Island: Rhode Island Slate Roofing

Contact Rhode Island Slate Roofing today to schedule a consultation with one of our roofing experts! Our team can assess your current roof, discuss your roofing options, and install a new clay tile roof if you decide it’s finally time to upgrade your home.

What Are The Benefits of Slate Roofing?

August 16, 2021roofingRIslate15

As a homeowner, there are many decisions when it comes to upkeeping your home both inside and out. One of the most important choices you have to make is what type of roofing material is installed on your home. Without a good roof, your home is at risk of being exposed to bad weather, pests, poor interior temperature control, and so much more! Slate roofing is one of the higher-end roofing materials on the market. The higher price tag may seem intimidating, but when you learn about all of the great benefits that come along with a newly installed slate roof, the price tag seems more than reasonable!

Curb Appeal

Slate roofing looks stunning once it’s installed. You can purchase your new roof in a variety of colors to compliment your siding and design style. Slate roofing looks classy, elegant, and truly timeless. You’ll be proud of your home, and your neighbors will be jealous!

Longevity

By far, the biggest perk of slate roofing is the long lifespan. Slate roofs are expected to last anywhere from 100 to 150 years! Your roof will outlive you, so you’ll never have to stress about a roof replacement again. For reference, traditional asphalt shingles last less than half the time, with a lifespan of 20 to 25 years.

Durability

Slate tile roofing is extremely durable under both hot and cold conditions. Since the slate is so heavy, you won’t have to worry when heavy winds strike. Slate is fire resistant and great at shedding water instead of absorbing it. Moss and algae that can easily grow on traditional asphalt roofing won’t be an issue with slate roofing!

Low Carbon Footprint

Since your roof won’t need to be replaced for 100 to 150 years, that means no roofing waste created for 100 to 150 years! Traditional roof replacements create a dumpster’s worth of trash every 20 to 25 years. With the current environmental crisis that’s happening, anything you can do to lower your personal carbon footprint is something that’s well worth the investment!

Resale Value

Home improvement projects should serve two purposes. First, improving the current function and comfort of your home. We’ve established that slate roofing definitely does that! Secondly, any investment you make in the home should increase the resale value of your home. Slate roofing is very attractive to potential buyers. Knowing that they won’t have to worry about a roof replacement for so long is a big selling point! That means you’ll see a great return on investment if you ever decide to sell the home.

Professional Slate Roofing In Rhode Island: Rhode Island Slate Roofing

Contact Rhode Island Slate Roofing today to schedule a consultation with a roofing expert in your area! Our team can answer any questions you have about slate roofing and schedule a new roof installation before winter weather arrives.

The Advantages of Asphalt Roofing

July 27, 2021roofingRIslate15

When it comes to roof repair or replacement, arguably the most important questions lie in your materials.

What is the quality of the materials you’re using? From what brands are these materials? Most importantly, what kind of material are you using?

Popular materials for roofing include:

Asphalt
Slate
Metal
Terra cotta or clay
Concrete

For roofing projects of all kinds, asphalt remains one of the most popular choices for homeowners and contractors alike, and for good reason. Read more to learn about why this popular material continues to be the preferred item of countless roofing projects across America.

Why Asphalt Roofing?

Affordability

It can’t be denied that asphalt roofing has tremendous value. The relatively low price point of asphalt roofing is among the main reasons why it is such a favorable choice. There is also a variety of pricing options to choose from, effectively creating another reason why homeowners and contractors turn to asphalt roofing.

Durability

Fortunately, in the case of asphalt roofing, a lower price point doesn’t necessarily equate to lower quality. In fact, homeowners can enjoy an extensive life expectancy with their asphalt shingles, which have been proven to be resistant against leaking, fire, weather conditions, and other hazards. There is no doubt that asphalt roofing is a bang for your buck!

Attractiveness

One of asphalt roofing’s most positive attributes is the fact that it is certainly eye-catching. Homeowners will be pleased to know that there is a multitude of textures and colors that they can choose from – including styles that look reminiscent of slate, cedar, or wood, if you prefer. However you picture the outcome of your roofing project – it’s likely that asphalt roofing can bring your vision to life.

Convenience

There’s a reason why asphalt roofing is heavily preferred by contractors – it’s convenient to install! In cases of roof repair, too, contractors have a significantly easier time replacing or repairing asphalt roofing.

Sustainability

By design, asphalt roofing is one of the most sustainable roofing materials out there. When replaced, asphalt shingles can be recycled. They are also repurposed for paving!

Contact Us Today

If you’re interested in installing or repairing asphalt roofing on your home this summer, our team at Rhode Island Slate Roofing is ready to assist! You can contact our team today by calling us at (401) 255-2003 or by filling out our team’s online contact form! We look forward to hearing from you and assisting with your roofing needs!

The Importance of Fascia & Soffits

July 27, 2021roofingRIslate15

Behind every dependable roofing system are the soffits and fascia.

Though relatively overlooked, these two components are key to an outstanding roof system.

Why? Because they not only improve the look of your home but also provide concrete support for your roof. This blog will explore why fascia and soffits are an important factor in the integrity of any home.

“But Fascia and Soffits Don’t Seem That Important…”

Of course, upon first glance, the fascia and soffit appear to be little more than an aesthetic element, otherwise unessential to the performance of your roof. While they surely do enhance the appearance of your home, giving it a smooth, complete look, it is undeniable that they can help protect you and your family from damage and decay.

“Why are Fascia & Soffits Important?”

Beginning with fascia, your attic (and entire home) is made a safer place thanks to its protective nature. This is because the fascia is the immediate structure that stands between your home and its roofline.

It endures adverse weather and other rough conditions that impact the exterior of your home. This especially comes in handy during New England winters, where high winds and snowfall can be among the most common occurrences.

Soffits, particularly, can help improve ventilation in your attic by driving out moisture and heat, which is imperative through all four seasons. Consistent heat, moisture, and/or condensation can cause catastrophic damage to your attic or roof, leaving you with immense damage.

Additional Benefits of Fascia & Soffits

As if these benefits weren’t enough, fascia & soffits can help lock out invasive pests and unwanted wildlife from your attic – protecting you and your family from harm.

Sufficient airflow in your home, thanks to fascia and soffits, can help deter spending on energy.

“Is Investing in Fascia and Soffits Worth It?”

The short answer to these questions is yes – fascia and soffits are a no-brainer to provide lasting, proven support to your home’s roofing system. In addition to providing security for you and your family, they can also help save you money in the long run.

Contact Us Today

If you’re interested in installing new fascia or soffits on your home this summer, our team at Rhode Island Slate Roofing is ready to assist! You can contact our team today by calling us at (401) 255-2003 or by filling out our team’s online contact form! We look forward to hearing from you and assisting with your roofing needs!

Benefits of Roof Insulation

July 15, 2021Best Practices, roofing, winter tipsRIslate15

When it comes to your home’s roof, there is quite a bit of maintenance that’s required to keep the system in good repair. From weather damage, to aging, to pests, your roofing system can become damaged in a variety of ways, but your roof maintenance doesn’t end on the exterior of your roof. One of the most important parts of your roofing system is your insulation, but many homeowner’s are unaware of it’s importance, or how to ensure that their roof is properly insulated. Curious in learning more about the benefits of roof insulation? Keep reading below for more information about our services!

Heat Control

Of course, one of the primary reasons that homeowners need insulation in their roof is in order to control the heat gain & loss in the building. Your roof is one of the biggest sources of heat gain & loss in your home, so having proper insulation in place can help make your home more temperate no matter what time of year. In the summer, insulation will keep the heat in your attic, and in the winter it will keep it in your home. Insulation is easily of the the most important aspects of keeping your home comfortable, no matter the season.

Ice Dam Prevention

Another reason that insulation is so important to install in your home is that it helps to prevent ice dams, which can cause plenty of damage to New England home. Ice dams form when the heat escaping from your home reaches your attic, and heats up your shingle roof from the inside of your home. When this happens, it causes the snow on your roof to melt, which leads to it running down your roof, and refreezing in your gutter system

However, proper attic insulation can stop ice dams from ever forming! By insulating your attic, you can prevent heat from escaping into the attic and causing the snow to melt off of your roof. Combined with proper roof ventilation, insulation will prevent ice dams from forming and causing damage to your roofing system. This makes attic insulation as good for your utility bills as it is for your home!

Contact Us Today

If you’re interested in installing a new roof on your home this summer, our team at Rhode Island Slate Roofing is ready to assist! You can contact our team today by calling us at (401) 255-2003 or by filling out our team’s online contact form! We look forward to hearing from you and assisting with your roofing needs!

Signs My Asphalt Shingle Roof Needs To Be Replaced

July 6, 2021Best Practices, news, roof replacement, roofingRIslate15

Determining whether or not your roof needs to be replaced is never easy. However, by knowing which signs you should be keeping in eye out for, you can often quickly determine the best course of action, or get a roof inspector involved who can provide you with a more educated assessment on the quality of your roof. To help you get started, here are a few of the signs you should consider replacing your home’s asphalt shingle roof!

Missing Shingles

Let’s start with the obvious; if you have missing shingles, it’s certainly time to consider a roof replacement. While it’s possible that strong gust of wind, or broken branch, may have caused shingles to fall off of your roof, the more likely scenario is that your roof is beginning to age, and the fastenings are coming loose. In this case, a missing shingle is just a symptom of a larger issue.

Warping or Buckling Shingles

Sometimes the damage to your shingles isn’t quite as drastic as missing shingles. Oftentimes, the signs of damage will be far more subtle. A couple of the most important ones to look out for are warping or buckling shingles. This happens when your shingles, and roof deck, begin to absorb water. This leads to warping & buckling, which gives water more room to infiltrate your roof. If you begin to see signs of warping, you’ll want to have the roof inspected immediately.

Granules in Your Yard or Gutters

Another reason you might want to consider a roof replacement is because you’re beginning to find granules in your gutter system or yard. Your granules are essential for the health of your roof, helping to keep the system protected from UV rays which can otherwise damage the shingles. Once your shingles begin to lose their granules, it’s generally a sign that your shingles are nearing the end of their lifespan and need to be replaced.

The Age Of The Roof

Do you know when your roof was installed? If you can’t answer that question, you should at the very least by inspecting your roof annually. Once an asphalt shingle roof is over 20 years old, the signs of damage will quickly begin to show, and waiting to replace it for signs of imminent failure could mean that you’re exposing other parts of your home to water damage or weathering as well.

Contact Us Today

If you need to replace your home’s asphalt shingle roof this summer, our team at Rhode Island Slate Roofing is ready to assist! You can contact our team today by calling us at (401) 255-2003 or by filling out our team’s online contact form! We look forward to hearing from you and assisting with your roof replacement needs!

Signs Your Roof Needs Repairs

June 1, 2021news, roof repair, roofingRIslate15

Did you know you should be inspecting your roof every spring? Annual roof inspections performed by the homeowner or a roofing contractor are proven to extend the life of your roof. During the inspection, damage and areas of concern can be noted and then repaired by the roofing contractor. Repairs that are done correctly and in a timely fashion can make the difference between a total roof replacement in the near future or a healthy roof that has years of life left in it. Keep an eye out for these telltale signs you need to schedule your roof repairs ASAP.

Shedding Granules

Asphalt shingles have small granules on their surface. These granules stay put until shingles begin to get worn out and old. Granules look like small pieces of black sand and you’re most likely to notice them when you’re cleaning out your gutter system.

Damaged or Missing Shingles

Shingles that are curling, cracked, or showing other signs of damage need to be replaced. Damage and curling typically occurs when asphalt shingles shrink after being exposed to the sun for so long. The shrinking process makes them more brittle and more likely to blow off the roof during a storm too. If you see a spot where shingles should be but aren’t, it’s safe to assume they already went through the shrinking process and blew off in the last storm.

Leaks or Light in the Attic

Go into your attic and look for signs of light or moisture coming in from the roof. Going up during or right after a rainstorm is the best way to look for water leaks. If you see a leak, mark the spot on the floor and ceiling of the attic to show a roofing contractor later. Light that shines through your roof into the attic during the day is a sign that there’s missing shingles that need to be replaced or a hole in one of the existing shingles that needs to be repairs.

Excess Moisture on Shingles

During the roof inspection, if there are shingles that seem to be holding onto moisture, that’s a sign of a bigger problem. Shingles that hold moisture can trap that moisture under the surface and lead to mold or water damage inside the home. You may also see mold or algae growth on shingles that aren’t draining water properly.

Contact Us Today

If you’re in need of a roof replacement this summer, our team at Rhode Island Slate Roofing is ready to assist! You can contact our team today by calling us at (401) 255-2003 or by filling out our team’s online contact form! We look forward to hearing from you and assisting with your roof replacement needs!

Summer Roof Maintenance

May 31, 2021news, roofingRIslate15

The roof of your home is arguably the single most important part of your house. A good roof protects against bad weather, harsh temperatures, pests, and so much more! Maintaining your roof throughout each year will help extend the life of the roof and save you some serious cash. Use these roof maintenance tips each summer to determine how your roof held up over a long winter and keep it in good condition all year long!

Check Your Shingles

If you see shingles that are missing, cracked, or curling, they should be replaced ASAP. Damaged shingles put your roof at risk of water damage and creates a weak spot for pests to enter the home. Checking and replacing shingles may sound like a simple task, but there’s more to it than you’d think. Inspecting the shingles requires close attention to detail and precision to avoid stepping on a damaged area of the roof. Replacing your shingles with the wrong type of shingle or securing it incorrectly leaves your roof at risk for mold or algae growth too. A professional roofer can come out every summer to inspect your roof and make any necessary repairs so you don’t have to!

Inspect the Roof from the Attic

Go into your attic and look up at the ceiling. The ceiling of your attic is just the back of your roof, so this is a great way to get a different perspective. If you see any holes or areas where light is shining through into the attic, your roof is in need of repair.

Remove Debris

Debris and limbs on your roof can lead to water damage and harm your homes ability to reflect light to prevent overheating in the summer. Use a leaf blower to clean debris off the hard to reach areas and take your time removing larger debris to avoid a slip or fall.

Clean and Repair Your Gutters

While you have the ladder out, clean the leaves and other debris from your gutter system. A blocked gutter system will lead to improper water drainage from your roof that can result in water damage, foundation damage, and ice dams on your roof in the winter. Flush the gutter system with a hose after you’re done to ensure there’s no blockages out of your view in the downspout. Gutters that are leaking, cracked, or otherwise damaged will need to be repaired or replaced.

Contact Us Today

If you need to repair your home’s roof this summer, our team at Rhode Island Slate Roofing can be reached at (401) 255-2003 or by filling out our team’s online contact form! Reach out to our team today to get started on your project!

Comparing Slate & Clay Tile Roofs

May 11, 2021roofing, slate roofingRIslate15

When it comes to roofing materials, the first thing that comes to mind for most North American homeowner is asphalt shingles. Long known as the standard of the roofing industry, homeowners across the country have trusted asphalt shingles for decades to keep their home’s protected. However, before asphalt shingles were used, there were other materials, some of which are still used today, including slate & clay tiles. While they aren’t as popular as they once were, both of these roofing materials are still fantastic roofing options, used by homeowners who are looking to give their home an extra touch of ambiance. Are you interested in learning a bit about each material and how they compare to one another? Keep reading below to learn more!

Curb Appeal

When it comes to the aesthetic of each roofing material, they are both beautiful options in their own right. Slate roofing is known for it’s rustic-looking, gray slabs, although it is available in a variety of colors. It is widely regarded as being one of the most beautiful roofing options, and an array of color options ensures you can find the right fit for your tastes. Clay tile roofing offers an ever wide array of color options, as the material can be dyed a variety of different colors, as well as a variety of shapes, including Mission, Spanish, Flat, & French styles! This wide variety of colors and shapes ensures you can always find the right option for your home!

Longevity

Next up, let’s discuss the durability & longevity of each material. Both material have enjoyed long histories as some of the world’s most popular roofing materials due in large part to their incredible longevity. In fact, these two materials are well known for being two the longest lasting materials on the market. Clay Tile is durable and weather resistant, and when properly installed, you can expect a clay tile roof to last up to 100 years, and potentially even longer with a bit of preventive maintenance along the way. Slate is even more durable than clay! Slate roofing is essentially impervious to the elements, and the only way it be truly be damaged is with blunt force, such as falling branches. This means that it’s not uncommon to see slate roofs well over 100 years. In fact, if you drive around the New England countryside for long enough, you’re bound to see a slate roof with it’s year of installation built into the pattern of the roof, some of which may date back two or three hundred years!

Contact Us Today

If you’re interested in installing a new slate or clay tile roof on your home this spring, reach out to our team at Rhode Island Slate Roofing today to get started! You can reach out to our team today by calling us at (401) 255-2003 or by filling out our team’s online contact form! We look forward to hearing from you and assisting with your roof replacement needs!