Does your roof need repairs or replacing? Whether it's tile, shingle, or metal, how do you know what roofing company to choose? With hundreds of roofers in the Central Florida area to choose from, the decision isn't always easy.
Just because you see a commercial or find a company on the internet doesn’t necessarily mean they are a reputable contractor. Making a decision just because of the low price, generally means you will get poor quality workmanship and products.
GAF is North America’s largest roofing manufacturer, known for their advancements in asphalt roofing shingles.
GAF understands the gap in today's contractors. Which is why they have made it easier for consumers to know they are hiring a roofing contractor who is qualified, has the expertise, provides exceptional service, and use the highest craftsmanship, and superior products.
What does it mean to be a GAF Certified Roofer?
Installation Excellence Award:
Signifies that this contractor has been awarded GAF’s Installation Excellence Award. Indicates that the contractor has had multiple "perfect" roof installations, based on GAF quality inspections.
Training Consumer Protection Award:
Signifies that this contractor has been awarded GAF’s Consumer Protection Excellence Award. Indicates that the contractor has an exceptional understanding of the benefits of installing complete roofing systems with superior warranty protection — for your peace of mind.
Training Excellence Award:
Signifies that this contractor has been awarded GAF’s Training Excellence Award. Indicates that the contractor has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to ongoing technical training and continuous improvement — for superior roof installation.
Schick Roofing is proud to be your local GAF Master Elite Roofing Contractor
Knowing your family and home are protected is priceless! Schick Roofing is highly reputable, dependable, delivers the highest quality installation, and able to offer GAF’s top warranties, which are backed by North America’s largest roofing manufacturer.
Contact Schick Roofing today for an appointment.
Whether your Orlando area home or business roof needs repairs or a replacing, it is an investment worth doing a little bit of homework on to get the best deal at the best price.
The fact is, the roof plays a critical component of every building, from the structural integrity, to preventing interior damage.
Choosing the best contractor isn’t always easy. The industry itself can be a confusing market. Just because you see a commercial or find them on the internet doesn’t necessarily mean they are a reputable contractor. Making a decision just because of the low price, generally means you will get poor quality workmanship and products.
What credentials set roofing contractors apart?
That's easy, make sure your contractor has a GAF Master Elite Roofing Certification. In business since 1886, GAF is North America’s largest manufacturer of commercial and residential roofing materials.
Their products are ranked #1 by third party associations, home owners, and even contractors.
GAF understands the gap in today's contractors. Which is why they have made it easier for consumers to know they are hiring a roofing contractor who is qualified, has the expertise, provides exceptional service, and use the highest craftsmanship, and superior products.
Why you should hire a GAF certified roofer?
GAF takes the guesswork out of hiring a roofing contractor. GAF certification has very high standards and is very demanding. Will will know the roofer is fully licensed and carries adequate insurance for the customer's protection. They will have an excellent reputation from both their customers and throughout the community. They will have the latest techniques and technology through a commitment to ongoing education.
Their trusted work has access to exclusive and longer warranties, as well as advanced products. Saving you in the long run from common roof problems and costly repairs.
Schick Roofing is proud to be your local GAF Master Elite Roofing Contractor, contact us today for an appointment.
Though roofing shingles in Central Florida may all similar, it couldn't be further from the truth. Manufacturers are constantly developing new technology and trends that set shingles apart. The quality of contractor repairing or replacing your roof is also important.
What do you need to know about asphalt roofing shingles?
A new roof is a big investment and since it should last 20 to 30 years of protection from the elements, it should be carefully considered. The style, texture, and color of the roofing material that fits the personality and character of the home and neighborhood.
In Orlando on average, four out of five homeowners make the decision to have asphalt shingles.
Shingles are made from crushed durable igneous rock, coated with a clay silicate mixture, in which pigment is added, fired at a high temperature, then cured the coating into a ceramic.
These granules add a unique depth and visual appeal, they are also the source of color and add to the longevity, durability, and UV protection.
GAF Shingle Comparison Chart and Reviews from Research Roofing
GAF makes a gigantic assortment of shingle lines/models to choose from. There definitely exist something for everybody here from the inexpensive but decent to high end luxury requiring specific architecture. Ruberoid was their first roofing product ready to lay starting in 1892 that rich history has led to GAF operating at least 2 dozen manufacturing plants in the United States. If you ever need a GAF shingle a dealer/supplier isn’t far away. They started the “lifetime warranty” trend back in 2011 and every major asphalt shingle producer followed suit shortly there after.
Favorite Shingles From GAF
Timberline: A huge color selection, energy efficient and impact resistant options. The Timberline is often the best selling shingle in America with nationwide distribution and a lifetime warranty. It’s a solid choice just make sure you hire a competent contractor to install them.
This is the thickest and highest end dimensional shingle offered by GAF. Also comes with great color options and a Lifetime Warranty. A true winner.
Pros include:
Very thick and heavy long lasting
Great colors
Multilayer design improves durability
Duragrip adhesive helps give 130 MPH wind warranty
Slateline: While an expensive asphalt product not too bad when compared to real slate. Of all the imitation slate shingles out there this one shines
What do you need to know about the roofing contractor?
The quality of the roofing contractor plays a significant role in the lifespan of your roof. GAF is the largest roofing manufacturer in North America, their roofing contractors and roofing companies are factory certified.
Schick Roofing is proud to be a GAF certified shingle installer in Central Florida, we offer Systems Plus lifetime warranty system. Contact us today for more information.
Is it time to have your Orlando area roof repaired or repairs? If so, there are many things to consider, one of them is the roofing underlayment. With the rainy season just around the corner, it is important to make sure you're prepared.
Roofing underlayment protects your home from wind driven rain and rising moisture
Heat and moisture is created in every home from everyday activities such as cooking, showering, and laundry. Exhaust fans take most of the moist air into the attic, then vents in the attic take it outside. The rest of the heat rises and ends up going through building materials and your roof deck.
Some of this warm moisture escapes completely through the asphalt roofing, while the rest is trapped between the roof deck and asphalt shingle. This consistent wet environment can wreck havoc and rot the wood roof deck. That's where roofing underlayment comes into play, it acts as a vapor barrier, protecting your roof. It is also an additional layer of protection against wind driven rain that can end up under asphalt shingles.
Traditional felt roofing underlayment was at one time considered a good way to protect a roof against the elements. With the advancements in technology, it has led the way to synthetic underlayment, such as GAF's Tigerpaw, Certainteed Diamond Deck and Atlas Summit 60. Designed to aid in the ventilation process and prolong the life of your roof.
"They last a lot longer than tradition roofing felt and provide some extra benefits such as improved water tightness and traction control(for when your roof is being installed). It is highly recommended to use a synthetic underlayment for metal roofs or any shingles expecting to exceed 40 years in life," according to Research Roofing.
At Schick Roofing our goal is to provide the best materials at an affordable price. We pride ourselves in offering the best customer service of any roofing company in Central Florida. We're so serious about offer excellent service that owner Paul Schick makes daily visits to each and every job, big or small, to ensure that only the highest quality work is being done.
Contact Schick Roofing for more information and an estimate.
There are many factors that affect the cost of repairing or replacing a roof. Many of which an online roofing calculator doesn’t take into account.
A new roof is an investment that not only protects your home from Central Florida’s harsh environmental elements, it can boost your curb appeal, adding to the overall value of your home, and save you money on your energy bill.
There are some key factors that determine the cost of a new roof
Every roof is unique, an accurate estimate requires a trusted roofing contractor.
Roof size
Replacement cost is directly impacted by the size of your roof. The more surface area, means you will need more materials, plywood, underlayment, shingles, ext.
Square foot of the roof
The square foot of your home is not necessarily the same as your roof. Not only does the square foot of your roof include the living areas, but also the garage, overhangs, walkways, front entryway, and lanais. When measuring, it should run all the to the edge of each surface, including any areas that go beyond the house, overhangs or eaves.
Slope of the roof
According to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors, “Slope is the incline of the roof expressed as a ratio of the vertical rise to the horizontal run, where the run is some portion of the span. This ratio is always expressed as inches per foot.”
Slope Ratio
A roof that rises 4 inches for every 1 foot or 12 inches of run is said to have a “4 in 12” slope. If the rise is 6 inches for every 12 inches of run, then the roof slope is “6 in 12.”
The slope can be expressed numerically as a ratio. The slope ratio represents a certain amount of vertical rise for every 12 inches of horizontal run. For example, a “4 in 12” slope can be expressed as the ratio of 4:12. A “6 in 12” slope is expressed as 6:12.
A good rule of thumb, the steeper the roof, the more the project will cost.
There is quite a bit that goes into determining the cost of a new roof, check back with us next week for more key factors. Until then, Contact Schick Roofing for more information.
As we enter hurricane season, it seems like it brings out unscrupulous contractors. Especially in the roofing industry, attempting to take advantage of the situation.
Your roof is a big investment and a vital component to every home and business. Unfortunately, some salespeople today prey on homeowners who are in need of roof repairs. Over the years, these tactics have become increasingly bold and cunning.
“Severe weather brings more than dark clouds, heavy rains and overly exuberant TV meteorologists. In the wake of nasty thunderstorms and hurricanes come crooks hoping to swindle unsuspecting homeowners. These types of scammers pose as legitimate contractors and have bucket loads of false promises that they’ll repair your storm-damaged roof.” Forbes Advisor
Consumers Should Be Cautious Of Individuals Who:
Demand a Full Payment Up-Front
If a company approaches you and ask for the down payment before they begin work, it's usually a scam. Often time unscrupulous contractors will say they need the down payment to pay for labor or material, but once they have the check they don't return. It's also not a good idea to give them your insurance check before the work has started.
Request Cash Only
Asking for cash is typically a huge red flag something is not right. Either they take the money, never to be seen again, not paying insurance or taxes. Either way, it’s not on the up and up.
Solicit Door To Door
Beware of someone showing up unannounced at your door, making promises of free repairs or even a new roof, it's a scam. These types of people usually show up after a storm and target neighborhoods with older home or senior citizens.
Lack a Written Contract or Advertise Without a License Number
The Better Business Bureau warns to always get a written contract and, "Make sure the company has a current and active state license with the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation by calling (850) 487-1395. Check with your county contractors’ licensing board to make sure the company is also registered with them."
Use High Pressure Sales Tactics
Guard yourself against those who want you to make a decision on the spot. They have perfected their tactics, preventing homeowners to take the extra time to do some research over or talk it over with their spouse.
Not All Roofing Contractors Are The Same!
Whether your roof has damage, leaking or showing signs of age, the professionals at Schick Roofing can help you make the best cost effective solution for your roof. We are proud to offer accurate and honest roof assessments at an affordable price.
Schick Roofing is proud to be one of the few roofing companies here in Central Florida who have earned the GAF Master Elite Certification. It is such a distinguished achievement that only 2% of all roofing contractors have qualified.
Contact Schick Roofing for an estimate
If you have a lifted or missing roofing shingle that needs replacing, you’re probably wondering how much work is involved and how much is it going to cost. It is important to understand, the longer you wait, the damage it will cause. Your roof is left vulnerable to the elements if a shingle is missing, curling or lifted.
Is your roof missing a shingle? Here is what can happen
Since there isn’t a shingle protecting your roof, rainwater can start seeping into the roof. This can negatively impact everything from the insulation to the structural beams and foundation.
Even if it’s just one shingle, rain and moisture can enable the exposed layers of the roof to get wet and damaged. Which can lead to cracks, wall damage, and caving.
Changing temperatures and hot air can cause the weatherproofing to stretch and were down the adhesive beneath the shingles. Enabling them loose their ability to protect your home.
If you have missing shingles, how can you make sure your home safe
To keep your home safe, take steps to repair the problems sooner, rather than later. Nobody wants to think about the damage taking place on their roof, but preventing further destruction can save you money and frustration.
Before you get out the ladder and hop up on your roof, think about safety. The CDC reports roofing related injuries has over 150,000 Americans seeking medical treatment every year.
Hiring a professional roofer means they will have the proper equipment to get the job done right and safely. They will also be to identify any other issues, not visible from the ground.
Replacing missing shingles
Avoid superficial “band-aids” or patches, quick fixes that will only last a short time.
Hire an experienced team, such as Schick Roofing. You wouldn’t believe how many homes we’ve been to where a friend or family member tried to fix a roof and just ended up doing more damage.
Find a roofer you can trust. There are a lot of contractors in the Central Florida area, but not all of them are the same.
At Schick Roofing, integrity and a high standard work ethic is paramount to our business and the way we treat our customers. Our customer testimonials say it all.
We are proud to be a GAF Master Elite Certified, have an A+ BBB rating, great reviews, licensed and insured. We're happy to provide an estimate and take the time to show you and explain any damage to your roof before asking you to sign anything.
When was the last time you really looked at your roof? It's a big investment, protecting it can save you money. Even if you got out the ladder and climbed up on the roof, would you know what to look for? There is an easy way you can give your roof an inspection without even having to get up on the roof.
Five Signs Your Roof May Need Repairs or Replacement
Number 1
Step back from your house, near the sidewalk. Look at your roof, you may need binoculars if you have them, are there any missing ridge caps or shingles? Take a good look from all sides of your home. Missing, lifted, or displaced shingles is an indication your roof may need to be replaced.
Number 2
Look for any rust marks, staining, or streaks. This can indicates metal flashing has been exposed and has started to rust. This causes holes in the roof where water can leak through. Metal flashing has to be maintained, wind and the elements can can lift and damage the metal.
Number 3
After a windy or afternoon thunderstorm, look for any roofing material on the ground. If you find any, it needs to be repaired before the roof is damaged and starts to leak.
Number 4
Look near down spouts for any roofing granules. The tiny stones on asphalt shingles are there for protection. If they become dislodged, they leave the mat exposed to destructive UV rays of the sun. If not repaired in a timely manner can reduce the life expectancy of your roof.
Number 5
Look inside your home, even in the closets, for any stains on the ceiling. A dark closet can have a leak that can go undetected for years. Also look around the roof overhangs. Dry rot is a good indication you may need a new roof, but can be repaired if caught early.
To extend the life expectancy of your roof it is best to have it professionally inspected, especially if your roof is older. Contact your local professionals at Schick Roofing for an appointment.
Your roof is a big investment, and though you may not think of it very often, there are a few things you can do to extend its lifespan. In this weeks blog we continue our article on what compromises the life of your roof.
High Heat
Intense heat can be particularly hard on your roof, especially the sealants and caulk. Warping and cracking typically occur, which leaves your roof vulnerable to moisture and damage. The effects can be more evident when the cool nights meet with high temperatures during the day, causing contraction and expansion of metal and other materials.
Wind Damage
Strong winds are prevalent here in Central Florida, it is important to check for misplaced or missing shingles. As the saying goes, “Your roof is only as strong as the weakest shingle”. When one shingle is damaged, the whole roof is compromised.
Hail Damage
Our weather is unpredictable, hail can come out of nowhere and the damage to your roof isn't always visible. Look for dents or depressions (which aren't always evident), on asphalt shingles, metal flashing, chimney caps, siding, and skylight flashings.
GAF, North America's largest manufacturer of residential and commercial roofing, explains the most common types of hail damage?
Granule loss at points of impact, which may be accompanied by surface depression. Loss of mineral granules as an immediate or gradual consequence of storm damage can lead to the asphalt coating being directly exposed to the elements. This may lead to accelerated aging of the shingle. Therefore, granule loss is NOT just cosmetic damage, and “sugaring” — the process of adding loose granules to damaged shingles with asphalt cement — is not a permanent solution.
Cracks in the granule-asphalt surfacing, which may radiate outward from points of impact.
Cracks may be present especially if high winds blew the shingles back.
Exposed fiberglass mat, where hail shattered the granule-asphalt surfacing causing it to break away from the fiberglass mat.
Fractured fiberglass mat, which may or may not be immediately visible. A fractured mat may result in tears radiating out from the points of impact. Furthermore, hidden damage to the mat may later develop into cracks and tears in time as the shingles age.
Loosening of the self-seal strip. This damage may or may not be immediately visible and may weaken the seal integrity, creating the possibility of future shingle blow-off
Your best protection is a professional roof inspection
Having an experienced roofer inspect every aspect of your roof, ensuring the shingles are in good shape, remove any debris, and check the gutters, can save you time, money, and injury. Climbing up on the roof can be dangerous. In fact, in the United States over 2.1 million people went to the emergency roof for ladder related injuries, according to a study done by the American Journal of Preventive Medicine
Choose a quality roofing company
As a leader in the industry, Schick Roofing is proud to provide quality roof roof repairs and replacement at an affordable price. Our integrity and a high standard work ethic is paramount to our business and the way we treat our customers.
Schick Roofing is proud to be one of the few roofing companies here in Central Florida who have earned the GAF Master Elite contractor certification. It is such a distinguished achievement that only the top 3% of roofers throughout the country have obtained such an accomplishment.
At Schick Roofing, we have a policy of no hidden fees. This helps to build and maintain trust with our customers, set appropriate expectations for the project, and ensure you are happy with the end result.
How long should my asphalt roof last? Is a question we often get here at Schick Roofing. While the answer depends on several factors, roofs don't last forever. Especially when it is exposed to Central Florida’s elements, intense heat, rain, hail, high winds, and humidity.
Surprising to many people, quality can drastically extend the lifespan of your roof, type of materials, installation/workmanship, and maintenance.
Your roof is a big investment, extending its life is paramount. We suggest regularly checking your roof for any issues several times a year, and especially after a strong storm.
Trees
Leaves and pine needles can quickly pile up on the roof, trapping moisture, eventually seeping into the shingles, the underlayment, and then the support beams, causing warping, rotting, and leaks.
Overgrown branches can break, damaging your roof. A good rule of thumb, is to trim branches within a 10 foot radius of your roof. Many insurance companies may require more.
Gutters
Pine needles, leaves, and debris can cause gutters to clog and water to back up. This water ends up flowing back under the shingles, which generate leaks. Make sure your gutters are cleaned out and water flows smoothly.
Long Term Damage from humidity
With our beautiful tropical environment comes the heat and humidity. This means the components of your roof will stay wet for a longer period of time. Fostering mold, mildew, and eventually rotting. Pay special attention to standing water or pooling on the roof.
Check back with us next week for more information about how long your asphalt shingle roof should last.
At Schick Roofing our goal is to provide the best materials at an affordable price. We pride ourselves in offering the best customer service of any roofing company in Central Florida. We're so serious about offer excellent service that owner Paul Schick makes daily visits to each and every job, big or small, to ensure that only the highest quality work is being done.
Contact Schick Roofing for more information and an estimate.