Category Archives: GAF

The Effects of Hail on Your Home

Posted by Andy Lindus on May 22, 2013 – 5:38 pm
Filed under Construction, GAF, GAF Roofing, Midwest LeafGuard, Storm Damage, Uncategorized
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A hail storm can have devastating effects on your home.  Each year, the effects of hail damage cost Americans around $1 billion dollars.  Throughout your home’s exterior, hail damage manifests itself in different ways.  Here’s what to look for:

Roofing-When hail hits your roof; it can cause the granules on your shingles to loosen.  One of the main purposes of the granules is to safeguard your roof from the sun & precipitation.  Granule loss will accelerate the deterioration of your roof as it is no longer protected from nature’s elements.  In some cases, this can mean a leaky roof.  A quick way to verify whether your shingles have been damaged is to look at your gutter’s downspouts. If you notice a significant amount of roofing granules collecting, it’s a sign that your roof may have been damaged in a hailstorm.  Your roof vents and flashing will often show indentations if hail has occurred.  Even without seeing this, it is a good idea to work with a reputable professional to evaluate whether your roof has been compromised.  Some effects of hail are not immediately evident; a roof can be weakened by hail, but not fail for a year or two.  Hail can void your roofing manufacturer’s warranty, another reason it’s important to have your roof evaluated if you suspect hail damage.

Siding- Because siding can be fabricated from different materials, the way that hail damages it can vary.  Vinyl siding holds up quite well to denting, however, if hit hard enough its pliability may be compromised and breaks, cracks or holes can occur.  Wood and metal siding can dent from hail; the amount is determined by the size of the hail, angle that it falls at and how fast it is traveling when it makes contact.  The best time to inspect your siding for damage is early in the morning or at dusk.  This will make indentations easier to see.  The winds that often occur during hailstorms can also cause your siding to pull away from your home.

Windows- Hail storms can damage windows.  Signs that your windows have been affected by hail are: a damaged window frame, broken glass, holes and cracks.  Denting of your window sashes, wraps and frames is not always easily detectable.  A trick is to run your hand along these areas to see if you feel any indentations.  However, when in doubt, consult a professional.

Gutters- Gutters are placed close to your roof line and are susceptible to damage.  If you find that you have hail damage on your roof, it’s likely that your gutters were damaged as well, though it may be tricky for you to tell standing on the ground.  Be sure to have them evaluated by a professional who will be able to detect indentations caused by the storm.

We would be happy to come in and help you restore your home to its natural beauty. Call us now at 1-800-873-1451 or check us out on the web at www.lindusconstruction.com to schedule a free in-home. Tune into AM 830 WCCO on Saturdays from 9:00-10:00am hosted by Denny Long and Andy Lindus to ask questions regarding your home improvement projects.

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More than Just Shingles-The Components of an Asphalt Roof

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Posted by Andy Lindus on April 15, 2013 – 12:16 pm
Filed under Construction, GAF, GAF Roofing, Home Construction, Home Maintenance, Lindus Construction, Uncategorized, WCCO, WCCO Home Improvement Show
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When researching what you need to know before hiring a professional to assist in a home improvement project, you’ll oftentimes find that it’s recommended that you contact at least 3 companies to give you an estimate.  Price is one of the driving factors many homeowners consider when choosing whom to hire.  It can often be a cause for bewilderment when an estimate for a project such as a roof, varies widely between companies.  Unless you encounter storm damage, it’s unlikely that during your tenure as owner of a home, you’ll replace your roof more than twice.  So it’s no wonder that confusion is likely to arise when bids come in vastly different.  It’s important to take to heart that your roof is more than just shingles.  When installed correctly, your roof is an entire system that has several layers in order to maximize the system’s lifespan and protect your home from Mother Nature.

Here, at Lindus Construction, we have chosen to align ourselves with GAF which is North America’s largest manufacturer of residential and commercial asphalt roofing.  We appreciate the thoughtfulness behind their approach to roofing and the fact that they lead the industry with a 50 year non-prorated warranty on labor & materials. Here are the elements contained in a GAF asphalt roofing system:

Weather Watch Leak Barrier Ice & Water Shield: This is the first thing to be installed.  All leak barriers have a backside that is tacky which helps it adhere to the roof decking.  An advantage of the Weather Watch system is that it contains a special adhesive that allows for one-time repositioning, something not commonly found in other brands.  It aggressively adheres over time.  The advantage of having the adhesive take time to adhere is that if the underside is too sticky from the get-go, air pockets can occur during the application process.  Eventually these air pockets will be punctured which creates an opportunity for a leak.

Tiger Paw Roof Deck Protection: The purpose of this product is to provide a crucial additional layer of protection between your shingles and your roof deck.  It assists in deterring water, ice and snow from penetrating the underside of your shingles which can compromise your roof’s structure and your home’s interior.  Typical “felts” are less thick and are susceptible to tearing while workers are hammering on your roof.  This can cause tears which are prone to leaking.  Tiger Paw Roof Deck Protection will also assist in shingles being laid flat and uniform which will give your roof more aesthetic appeal.

Flashing: Flashing is metal that aids to protect your roof from water intrusion where your roof meets a wall in your home.  The intention of flashing is to defer the flow of water away from the home, rather than allowing your roofing and underlayment to absorb it which can cause water damage.  There are several different types of flashing including: kickout, valley step, etc.  Failure to utilize the correct amount, placed in the right areas can lead to leaking in your home, mold and a shortened lifespan of your roof.

Venting System: Without adequate ventilation, heat and moisture can build up in your attic which can cause your heating and cooling bills to increase.  Another side effect of inadequate ventilation is ice dams.  Ice dams usually occur after a heavy snowfall and several days of freezing temperatures. Warm air inside your home leaks into the attic and will warm the underside of the roof causing snow and ice on the roof to melt. The melted water will drain along the roof, under the snow, until it reaches the cold overhang. The overhang tends to be at the same temperature as the outdoors and the melted water will refreeze and form an ice dam and icicles. The ice dam can cause damage to the roof, which will result in water leaks to the inside. Frequently the result will be a water spot on the ceiling under the roof damage.  It’s also important to note that many roofing manufacturers will not warranty a roof that is not ventilated correctly.

Lindus Construction offers both asphalt and metal roofing options. In 2011, they were named the #1 Roofer in the United States by GAF, which is North America’s largest manufacturer of residential and commercial roofing. Call us now at 1-800-873-1451 or check us out on the web at www.lindusconstruction.com to schedule a free in-home estimate today. Tune into AM 830 WCCO on Saturdays from 9:00-10:00am hosted by Denny Long and Andy Lindus to ask questions regarding your home improvement projects.

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Flashing-A Roof Leak Preventative

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Posted by Andy Lindus on April 8, 2013 – 12:30 pm
Filed under GAF, GAF Roofing, Roofing, Roofing Installation, WCCO, WCCO Home Improvement Show
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When it comes to replacing your roof, homeowners spend a lot of time selecting shingle style and color.  There’s nothing wrong with this, especially when you consider that companies like GAF put out roofing systems that have non-prorated warranties that last 50 years.   But it’s also, if not equally more important, to understand the components being installed in conjunction with your shingles because they act as additional protectors for your home from issues such as water damage.  One of these protective components is called flashing.  Likely, flashing is not something that is top of mind when it comes to re-roofing your home, but failure to pay ample attention to it can dramatically shorten the lifespan of your roof and lead to water damage in your home.

What Is Flashing:  Flashing is metal that aids to protect your roof from water intrusion where a roof meets a wall.  The intention of flashing is to defer the flow of water away from the home, rather than allowing your roofing and underlayment to absorb it which can cause water damage.

Types of Flashing:

Kickout- Itsprimary purpose is to protect your home’s structure, windows & siding.  Additionally, it prevents water from going behind your siding where your roof meets a wall.  This type of flashing is installed over the edge of your roof.  Without it, the water that drains down your roof will come crashing down your roof and splash onto your windows & siding.  As this process repeats, mold, rot and structural damage can occur.

Valley- On a roof, a valley is an area where two adjoining sloped roof planes intersect on a roof creating a “V” shaped depression.  Valleys can be common sources of roof leaking because they catch water speeding down two roof planes; they disperse more water off a roof than does any individual roof plane.  Inadequate or improper installation of valley flashing can result in circumstances such as your roof caving in or your roof decking rotting.  Valleys come in two varieties.  They are: closed valley & open valley.  A closed valley is where the metal flashing is installed first and then the shingles are placed on top of it.  An open valley is where the flashing is laid first, followed by the shingles.  The tin is left exposed.  Additionally, three rows of ice and water shield are placed in this area.  Some homeowners feel that the closed valley is better because the metal is hidden from sight, therefore making the roof more aesthetically appealing.  An argument can be made for the open valley because the valleys of your roof handle more water than any other part of your roof.  Over time, this can cause the granules on your shingles to erode off.  Open valleys add an additional protectant so that this process is slowed.Some homeowners feel that the closed valley is better because the metal is hidden from sight, therefore making the roof more aesthetically appealing.  An argument can be made for the open valley because the valleys of your roof handle more water than any other part of your roof.  Over time, this can cause the granules on your shingles to erode off.  Open valleys add an additional protectant so that this process is slowed.

Step- Step flashing gets its name because it is comprised of several pieces of flashing that “step up” the roof with each progression of shingles and when the process is completed, the flashing looks like steps going up a wall.  Step flashing is important because it is a protectant against leaking where a roof & wall come together.  Improper step flashing can also lead to leaking where a chimney and wall meet.

Vent Pipe- It’s not uncommon to see a vent pipe sticking out from numerous places along your roofline.  Vent pipes can be for bathroom vents, sewer vents, hot water heaters, furnaces, etc.  Over time, due to nature’s elements, the seal between the pipe and roof begins to erode.  Installing vent pipe flashing defends against water damage to your home.

Chimney- Like its name states, chimney flashing is positioned around a chimney for the purpose of sealing it off against water.  One type of chimney flashing is called “chimney cricket”.  This piece of metal is installed on the back side of the chimney with the intention of diverting water away from it, as chimneys are an area that can easily leak.  If you notice stains on the walls that are in close proximity to your chimney, it’s quite likely that your chimney flashing has been comprised.  Prompt attention should be paid to this matter to avoid further damage, including mold growth.

Skylight-When a skylight is installed, a hole is cut in your roof to accommodate it.  Skylights must have flashing installed around them.  Without it, leaking can occur, damaging the interior of your home.  Many skylight companies offer flashing kits that are specifically designed for their product.

Drip Edge-Drip edge flashing can be installed on your roof’s gable edges and eaves. It will preserve the fascia board from windblown rain.  Additionally, it assists in bolstering roof shingles from sagging into your gutters or being broken should a tree branch fall on it.  Drip edge flashing also serves as a preventative for shingles being pulled off the roof during heavy winds.

Sidewall-This type of flashing should be installed where a section of roofing meets a vertical wall.  This will add an additional level of protection to prevent water from leaking behind your walls, 01siding, etc.  This can lead to rot, mold, etc. which can end up causing a homeowner thousands of dollars.

Lindus Construction offers the #1 selling roofing systems in North America, GAF Asphalt Roofing and was recognized in 2011 as the #1GAF roofing contractor in the country. Tune into AM 830 WCCO on Saturdays from 9:00-10:00am hosted by Denny Long and Andy Lindus to ask questions regarding your home improvement projects. Call us now at 1-800-873-1451 or check us out on the web at www.lindusconstruction.com to schedule a free in-home estimate.

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Your Home’s Moisture Levels-When Wetter Isn’t Better

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Posted by Andy Lindus on April 2, 2013 – 2:30 pm
Filed under GAF, GAF Roofing, Lindus Construction, Roofing, Sweaty Windows, WCCO, WCCO Home Improvement Show, Window Condensation
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It’s no secret that moisture in your home can be a leading cause of health ailments such as asthma & upper respiratory conditions.  With this year’s winter dragging on and on and on, it’s a good idea toexamine your home for moisture related issues that may have presented themselves over the winter months.

Beyond the health issues that excessive moisture in your home can create, it’s also vital to address issues with moisture before they negatively affect your property. There are several places where moisture can present itself, all of which can end up directly affecting your wallet & your health.

Windows & Doors: Leaking often first occurs near the corners.  Telltale signs of impending water damage include paint that is discolored or peeling.  Windows that sweat can also be an indicator that moisture is occurring when it shouldn’t.  (For more on sweating windows: (http://www.lindusconstruction.com/blog/2012/11/why-are-my-windows-sweating/)

Roof: Any shingles that permit water to saturate your roof’s underlayment should be replaced.  Areas where this is more likely to occur are attic vents and chimneys.  Water that is visible through your ceiling may have already coated your attic floors and trusses which is why it’s so important to address any loose shingles as soon as you see them.  Another preventative measure that can be taken is investing in quality flashing.  Flashing is a slender metal bar found in roofing that acts as a water intrusion preventative in spaces where two different surfaces fit together.

Foundation: A cracked foundation is the perfect vessel to deliver water into your home.  As soon as cracks are identified and the damage has been evaluated, the cracks should be filled.

Clogged Gutters: The purpose of rain gutters is to divert rain water away from your home.  If they are clogged, the water will spill over which can result in a multitude of issues including: damp basements, destroyed landscaping, rotting wood (around windows) and icy sidewalks.  Invest in clog-free gutters such as LeafGuard and never experience this issue again.

Exhaust Fans & Venting: Exhaust fans are designed to redirect moisture from your home’s interior to the outdoors.  Be sure yours is in good working order or risk excessive moisture which cancause mold to grow, which will negatively affect your family’s health.

Sprinkler System: The purpose of your sprinkler system is to water your grass, not your foundation.  Make sure that your system’s misting pattern is directed away from your home so that water does not land near your foundation.

Lindus Construction offers free no-obligation estimates on home remodeling projects. Call us now at 1-800-873-1451 or check us out on the web at www.lindusconstruction.com to schedule a free in-home estimate. Tune into AM 830 WCCO on Saturdays from 9:00-10:00am hosted by Denny Long and Andy Lindus to ask questions regarding your home improvement projects.

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Can I Install a New Roof Over My Old One?

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Posted by Andy Lindus on February 18, 2013 – 3:09 pm
Filed under GAF, GAF Roofing, Lindus Construction, Roofing, Roofing Installation, Uncategorized, www.lindusconstruction.com
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Installing a new roof is a sizable investment and most homeowners want to ensure that they’re being wise with their money.  As a cost-saving measure, some may look to eliminate the cost of the tear-off of the old roof by simply roofing the new roof over the old one.  It may seem like a good idea to put new shingles over the old ones, thinking that it may offer additional protection.  We believe this mentality to be a pennywise and dollar foolish for the following reasons:

Legality

Most homes in the Midwest are classified as “moderate hail zones”.  When a home receives this classification, it is illegal to install a new asphalt roof over an existing one.  Check your local ordinances to see whether this is even a possibility before moving forward with the project.

Weight

Asphalt shingles are heavy and adding a second layer of them to your roof may compromise your home’s walls and roof structure.  Even if your area does permit shingles to be placed on your roof in multiple layers, eventually you will incur the cost of removing them because your roof can only support so much weight before its integrity is compromised.

Manufacturer Warranty

Roofing manufacturers have warranties in place to protect consumers from the cost of replacing a roof should their product malfunction.  Manufacturer warranties oftentimes will not cover new shingles being layered on top of old ones.  The reasoning being that it is unlikely that the new shingles will be able to lay flat.  If the shingles are not laid on a flat surface, they won’t conform to each other the way they are supposed to.  Winds that the shingles should be able to stand up to may cause them to loosen.  This leaves the homeowner with repair bills or the cost of replacing the roof sooner than they should have had to.

Sealing Issues

It’s improbable that your current shingles will line up with the existing ones.  This will prevent the current shingles from sealing properly and as a result, they may come off during high winds easier than they normally would.

Roof Deck Inspection

A roof deck is the underlayment that shingles are laid on top of.  By adding shingles on top of the old roof, there is no opportunity to inspect the roof deck to ensure that the current wood is not wearing out.  Worn out portions of the roof deck can cause leaking.  Stripping the roof down to the roof deck, also give the nails being used in the new roof a better chance to hold.

Lindus Construction offers both metal & asphalt roofing systems. In 2011, they were recognized by GAF (North America’s largest manufacturer of commercial and residential roofing) as the #1 GAF Roofer in the country. Lindus Construction’s successes of past recognitions include winning all 6 of GAF’s excellence awards in 2011 & 2010. Only the top 3% of all roofing contractors have qualified as Master Elite™ contractors. To become a factory-certified GAF Master Elite™ roofing contractor, companies must be fully licensed, adequately insured, have a demonstrated reputation for providing quality roofing services and be committed to on-going professional training.

Call us now at 1-800-873-1451 or check us out on the web at www.lindusconstruction.com to schedule a free in-home estimate today. Tune into AM 830 WCCO on Saturdays from 9:00-10:00am hosted by Denny Long and Andy Lindus to ask questions regarding your home improvement projects.

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Ways to Void Your Roof Warranty

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Posted by Andy Lindus on January 29, 2013 – 3:23 pm
Filed under Construction, GAF, GAF Roofing, Home Construction, Home Maintenance, Lindus Construction, Roofing
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Every roofing manufacturer is a little different when it comes to warranties.  Some warranties are prorated while others aren’t.  Some cover labor and materials while others only cover materials.  Certain warranties are transferrable while others only cover the current homeowner and of course, the length of the warranty varies.  Just like the terms mentioned above, each manufacturer has different criteria when it comes to what voids a warranty and what doesn’t so it’s important to understand what’s covered in your roof’s warranty and what actions you can take to not void that warranty.  Below, we’ve outlined some of the more common reasons a roofing warranty claim may be rejected.

Improper VentilationA roof ventilation system works by pulling in outside air from intake vents that are placed on the lower part of the roof.  The air that is taken in is displaced through higher parts of the roof.  The result of inadequate venting is moisture and heat being trapped in your attic.  Additional heat on the bottom side of shingles can cause them to wear prematurely and fade.  It’s important to have proper ventilation which regulates the intake and outtake of air in your attic and keeps your shingles at an ideal temperature.

Incorrect Installation-Roofing manufacturers have strict regulations regarding their roofs are installed.  This can include things like number of nails per shingle, length of nail, etc.  Because of this, it’s strongly recommended that home owners work with a contractor familiar with the type of roof they are installing.

Hot Roofs-A hot roof is a roof that lacks ventilation because the roof sheathing is coated with spray foam insulation.  Industry studies show that shingle temperature is only raised by a few degrees with a hot roof.  However, these few degrees can lower shingle lifespan by up to 10% and cause shingles to fade.  GAF (North America’s largest manufacturer of residential and commercial roofing) offers a “Golden Pledge” warranty which covers roofing material and labor for 50 years.  This warranty is not pro-rated.  However, those with a hot roof are not eligible for GAF’s highest level of warranty because a hot roof does not have the insulation standards that their asphalt shingles were designed for.  Before moving forward with a hot roof, check with your roofing manufacturer to make sure that doing so will not void your roofing warranty.  Be sure to check with your city to see if they have restrictions on hot roofing before proceeding with your project.

Antennas & Satellite DishesIt’s important to understand that satellite dishes and antennas can affect your roofing warranty.  While the fine print varies between manufacturers, oftentimes you’ll find that a satellite dish or antennae will not completely void the roofing warranty but it may void the portion that covers leaking since drilling holes into a roof make it more susceptible to leaks.

Pressure Washing Moss on a roof can damage it over time because it can trap moisture against the roof’s surface.  This can cause premature wear on the roof because it can lead to increased frost damage which causes cracking to shingle granules.  To eradicate moss, some homeowners choose to pressure wash their roof.  Doing this at a high setting can void the roofing warranty because shingles are not designed to withstand the effects of close range pressure washing and the roofing granules can start to deteriorate or separate from the shingle. Should you find yourself in a situation where moss is growing on your roof, it is recommended that you use metallic zinc strips near your roof’s peak.  This method works because rain water will run off the zinc strips and kill the moss.

Installing the New Roof over the Old Roof Doing this in most cases will void or shorten your warranty.  There are a couple reasons for this.  The first is that a second layer of shingles will expend heat more slowly which will shorten the shingles’ lifespan.  It can also cause the new shingles to fit to the old shingles, causing bulges.  This can cause the roof to wear unevenly.

Why we’re a Fan of the GAF Golden Pledge WarrantyGAF is North America’s largest manufacturer of commercial & residential roofing.  They lead the industry with a 50 year Golden Pledge Warranty that covers both labor and materials.  To ensure that your claim isn’t rejected because of subpar installation, GAF will send a representative to come out and inspect the roof after a GAF certified contractor has installed it, to ensure that the roofing was done correctly.  The warranty can be transferred to a future homeowner at no additional charge.

 

Lindus Construction offers both asphalt and metal roofing options. In 2011, they were named the #1 Roofer in the United States by GAF, which is North America’s largest manufacturer of residential and commercial roofing. Call us now at 1-800-873-1451 or check us out on the web at www.lindusconstruction.com to schedule a free in-home estimate today. Tune into AM 830 WCCO on Saturdays from 9:00-10:00am hosted by Denny Long and Andy Lindus to ask questions regarding your home improvement projects.

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Can a Roof Be Installed in the Winter?

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Posted by Andy Lindus on December 31, 2012 – 1:26 pm
Filed under GAF, Home Construction, Home Maintenance, Lindus Construction, Roofing, Roofing Installation, www.lindusconstruction.com
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In our industry, the busiest times for roofing installation are first thing in the spring and in the fall.  Those in the spring may have prolonged the project longer than they should have and those in the fall likely are trying to get the project completed before the cold sets in.  While we certainly don’t see an influx of roofing inquiries in the winter, the question has been asked whether roofing can be installed in the winter.  The answer, in one word, is yes.  However, we feel a longer explanation is necessary so that the homeowner understands the ins and outs of installing a roof in the winter.

First Things, First

Just because you can, doesn’t mean you should.  By no means are we encouraging everyone to get a roof installed year-round in the Midwest.  A new roof in the winter involves some additional challenges.  The temperature needs to be taken into consideration because at extremely cold temperatures, asphalt shingles can become brittle and break.  To avoid this issue, a roofer can keep most bundles of shingles in a warm, dry place and only pull out a few bundles at a time.  Because days are shorter in the winter, roofers have less daylight to get the roof complete.  Installing on a windy winter day can easily rip off newly installed shingles, especially those with self-sealing strips which can be compromised in cold temperatures.  As an extra precaution, hand tabbing (adding quarter size spots of adhesive to the bottom of shingles) is encouraged.  This will keep the shingles in place until warmer temperatures arrive which will help the adhesive work.  It’s also important to keep in mind the safety of the roofers since the roof can be a slippery surface to work on in the winter.  As with any roofing job, it’s important that roofers are tethered to the roof so that if they were to slip, they would be stopped before they went over the edge.

It’s Not All Bad News

On the bright side, there are a few advantages to roofing in the winter, should you find yourself in need.  In the winter, unlike the summer, meteorologists have an easier time forecasting the weather.  This allows roofers to make strategic choices about when to install a roof so that it’s not left open when snow is on the way.  One of the hazards of roofing in the summer is worrying about debris accidentally falling on your landscaping and damaging your plants.  In the winter, there’s less chance for damaging landscaping.  Windows are also closed in the winter which prevents any falling roofing materials from accidentally ending up in your home.

The Bottom Line

While winter isn’t an ideal time to install a roof, with the proper steps taken to ensure the workers’ safety and preservation of the new roofing materials, a roof can successfully be installed in the winter months. 

Lindus Construction offers both asphalt and metal roofing options.  In 2011, they were named the #1 Roofer in the United States by GAF, which is North America’s largest manufacturer of residential and commercial roofing.  Call us now at 1-800-873-1451 or check us out on the web at www.lindusconstruction.com to schedule a free in-home estimate today. Tune into AM 830 WCCO on Saturdays from 9:00-10:00am hosted by Denny Long and Andy Lindus to ask questions regarding your home improvement projects. 

 

The Facts About Cedar Shake Roofing

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Posted by Andy Lindus on December 26, 2012 – 3:36 pm
Filed under GAF, GAF Roofing, Home Construction, Home Maintenance, Lindus Construction
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What is Cedar Shake Roofing?

Cedar shake roofs use wooden shingles that are made from split logs.  The roofs have a distinctive look because the thickness and length of each shingle can vary.  This type of roofing has been in existence in North America since the days of the colonists.

Lifespan:

The average lifespan of a properly cared for cedar shake roof is approximately 7-15 years.  This may sound like a lot until you understand that manufacturers, like GAF, offer non-prorated warranties covering both labor and materials, up to 50 years on metal and asphalt roofs.

I’m Considering Purchasing a Home with Cedar Shakes; What Should I Know?

  • Cedar shakes can be a poor choice in humid climates which can cause the shingles to  age prematurely
  • Because cedar shakes are made out of essentially the same material used in a campfire, your insurance company may charge a premium for this type of roofing since it is not fire retardant.  (Retardant chemicals are available but most need to be reapplied every time it rains.
  • Cedar shakes need to be cleaned every 4 to 5 years to maintain their appearance.  The process often involves pressure washing.  Beware that using to high of a setting on the pressure washer which can damage the roof and cause premature aging.
  • Roof should be inspected annually by a professional for signs of aging wear, insect infiltration, rot, etc.
  • Cedar shake roofs are prone to algae & moss growth which can endanger both your family’s health & safety.  When it rains, moss traps moisture and prevents the cedar shake roof from ever drying out.  As time goes on, this can cause the roof to leak.  In the winter, the roof’s moisture freezes and thaws repeatedly which does nothing except cause damage.

Environmental Impact:

Trees are a renewable resource.  However, cedar does not grow as fast as other types of trees.  Experts estimate that the time it takes for a cedar tree to reach the maturity level needed for cedar shake roofing can be anywhere from 200-400 years.  As cedar becomes more and more rare, the price of this type of roofing will be driven up due to the rules of supply and demand. 

   Lindus Construction offers both metal & asphalt roofing systems. In 2011, they were recognized by GAF (North America’s largest manufacturer of commercial and residential roofing) as the #1 GAF Roofer in the country. Lindus Construction’s successes of past recognitions include winning all 6 of GAF’s excellence awards in 2011 & 2010. Only the top 3% of all roofing contractors have qualified as Master Elite™ contractors. To become a factory-certified GAF Master Elite™ roofing contractor, companies must be fully licensed, adequately insured, have a demonstrated reputation for providing quality roofing services and be committed to on-going professional training.

Call us now at 1-800-873-1451 or check us out on the web at www.lindusconstruction.com to schedule a free in-home estimate today. Tune into AM 830 WCCO on Saturdays from 9:00-10:00am hosted by Denny Long and Andy Lindus to ask questions regarding your home improvement projects.

 

Become an Expert When Choosing Your Next Roofing Contractor

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Posted by Andy Lindus on May 23, 2012 – 6:17 pm
Filed under Andy Lindus, Construction, Energy Efficient Homes, GAF, GAF Roofing, Home Construction, Home Maintenance, Home Safety, Remodeling, Roofing, Uncategorized, WCCO, WCCO Home Improvement Show
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Stability of your potential contracting company
When choosing a contractor to work with for your new roofing project you want to make sure that it is a reputable company. Make sure it is a permanent place of business and when you call you are able to speak with someone rather than leaving a voicemail message as your only option. Any reputable contracting company will come out free of charge to give you an estimate rather than charging an upfront fee. Be sure to ask your family and friends of companies they would recommend and also make sure to do your homework online. There are many websites such as Angie’s List and GuildQuality where you can read online reviews of potential contractors to put on your list. When you have narrowed down your search ask them for a reference list of past customers. If you are working with a professional they will have one readily available and be happy to do so.

Insurance Coverage
You should always ask for a copy of a contractor’s insurance policy; not only to make sure that they do carry insurance, but what kind and how much. There are a lot of contractors that have coverage but it is sometimes not enough to even cover your property. You want to make sure that their insurance not only covers your property, as well as a good amount of worker’s compensation coverage. Be sure to check that the coverage is effective through the duration of your roofing project. The last thing you want when thinking of replacing your new roof is being dragged into litigation involving and uninsured roofing contractor. This does happen if the contractor is not properly insured and you could be liable for any accidents or injuries that occur on your property if you have not done your legwork.

Research their reference list
When asking for a reference list ask for recent customers as well as ones that are a few years older. The reason to ask for ones that are from a few years ago is then you will be able to see how well that contractors work has held up over the years and for their most recent you will get an accurate account of what they liked and disliked because it is fresh in their mind. Here are some basic questions you can ask their references to get quality information to help with your decision making easier.

  • Would you hire the contractor you worked with again?
  • Were you satisfied or dissatisfied with the quality of the work and employees?
  • How did the contractor handle cleanup of the work area each day and at the end of the project?
  • Was the contractor easy to talk to about your ideas or were they only on their agenda?
  • How did the contractor handle any challenges or work modifications happened during your project?
  • Was the job completed on time and did they abide by the estimate they gave you in the beginning?

Check them out on the Better Business Bureau (BBB)
Any respectable and upright roofing contractor will be a member of the BBB. There is a wealth of information and knowledge on contracting companies that you can research on here. You will be able to see if there have been any complaints filed against a particular business as well as how the company you are researching handled a possible mishap. The BBB also has a lot of helpful tips when it comes to hiring a contractor so it is a great resource for factual information.

What brand of roofing material should you use
Most homeowners would like the most inexpensive roofing material, which has the best warranty and requires no maintenance. In a perfect world that would be ideal, but this does not really exist. If your focus is concentrated on the most inexpensive roofing material do not expect for it to last a lifetime. There is a lot to be said about the cost of roofing materials and why consumers choose one over the other, but take our advice that price should be lower on your list than quality and warranty. When it comes to brands of asphalt shingles, being a nationally renowned manufacturer is a very important aspect. Asphalt shingles on the market today are vastly superior than the ones used 30 years ago. Typically most asphalt shingles come with a 25 year warranty, but there are also some now that have 50 year warranties. If you know the brand of shingles a contractor uses do not be afraid to call the manufacturer as well and ask any questions that you may have about the product.

Make sure your contract is in writing not verbal
Replacing your roof is an investment in your home and the future of your property value so you need to be sure and have your contract in writing. You need to have detailed information on your proposal so you are aware of the scope of the project, cost, roofing materials to be used and a timeline of the work to be done. Below are some important factors that you need to make sure are on your contract before you sign anything and if they are not you must insist they be added or chose another contractor.

  • The scope of work that will be done on your home
  • The type of roofing material that will be used, the manufacturer and your choice of color
  • Agreement of who will be removing your existing roof
  • Whether or not existing flashing on your home needs to be replaced or can be re-used and the type of flashing metal
  • Will there need to be anything done regarding your current ventilation
  • Who will replace or repair any damage to landscaping or the exterior of your home if any occurs during the installation process by accident
  • A timeline of when your project will start and end
  • What type of payment you will be using to pay for your project whether it is a personal check, credit card or even possibly financing through your contractor of choice
  • Detailed warranty on your new shingles and the workmanship of the job
  • Who is responsible for disposal of your old roofing materials
  • Any extra fees and or discounts that will be applied to your contract

Why you should choose Lindus Construction as your roofing contractor
Lindus Construction is a family owned construction company that has been in business for the last 33 years. We offer free no-obligation estimates and you can look us up on Angie’s List, our A+ rating on the Better Business Bureau as well as view our GuildQuality page to read customer reviews. We provide all of our customers with a copy of our insurance policy before we start your scope of work so you are able to see our coverage. We not only will provide you with a reference list, but we have even gone a step farther and will provide you one from the area that you live in. We use the #1 one selling brand of roofing system in North America, GAF. Only the top 3% of all roofing contractors have qualified as Master Elite™ and Lindus Construction is proud to be among them. With a proven reputation for providing quality roofing systems and ongoing professional training, Lindus Construction is one of the most experienced and respected roofing companies serving Minnesota and Wisconsin. If you are worried about the design of asphalt shingle and color to use on your home we have you covered because we offer a home virtual remodeler where we will import a picture of your home into our program so you can see what the finished project will look like before we even start. We provide detailed written contracts to all of our potential clients and will answer any questions that you have before, during or after your project completion that you may have. We strive to keep the lines of communication open with you far after your project is finished to ensure a lifetime of satisfaction.

Tune into AM 830 WCCO on Saturdays from 9:00-10:00am hosted by Denny Long and Andy Lindus to ask questions regarding your home improvement projects. Call us now at 1-800-873-1451 or check us out on the web at www.lindusconstruction.com to schedule a free in-home estimate and get your roofing project started today!

Is Your Roof Past Its Peak?

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Posted by Andy Lindus on March 26, 2012 – 6:30 pm
Filed under Construction, GAF, GAF Roofing, Home Construction, Lindus Construction
Tagged as , , , , , , , , , ,

It’s imperative to keep your roof in good working condition because it protects your home and its contents from rain, snow and sunlight.  Because your roof is a complex structure exposed 24/7 to nature’s elements, there are a variety of issues that occur with it.  It’s important to address small problems before they lead to larger ones.  Early spring, after the snow is melted off the roof is a great time to access your roof to see if replacement or repair is needed.  Below are details on common roofing issues and what their presence can suggest:

1-Buckling Shingles: This can occur when new shingles are placed on top of old shingles or the roof was not properly installed.  It can also be a sign of poor ventilation.  When the shingles buckle, it means that moisture is underneath them.  This can often signal that a whole new roof is needed.

2-Water Spots on Your Ceiling: Discolored spots on your ceilings are caused by leaks in your roof.  The damage doesn’t stop with the unsightly spots.  Left ignored major damage can occur and a homeowner can be forced to also replace their ceilings and/or drywall.

3- Curling Shingles: There are several reasons this can happen.  One is that the roofer disregarded the manufacturer’s nail per shingle recommendations.  If a roof is inadequately insulated, moisture may build up in a home’s attic.  Because it needs to go somewhere, it will slowly become trapped between the underlayment and shingles.  Each shingle has an adhesive strip that connects it to the row below it.  If that strip, called back coating, is not properly attached to the row below it curling can occur.  Weather elements cause your roof to expand and contract.  During this process, the nails holding your shingles down can be forced upwards which can cause shingles to curl.

Curling Shingles

4- Roof Rotting: Roofs begin to rot when the shingles have absorbed moisture all the way to the core.  This is a serious matter and should be addressed as quickly as possible by a roofing professional.

5- Missing Shingles: This problem often occurs in the spring and cast be the result of high winds, ice and snow damage.  Another possibility is that shingles were not installed correctly.  Regardless, it’s important to call a roofing professional to get your roof back to its original condition.  An untrained person trying to do this on their own can incorrectly replace the shingles which can cause your roof to leak.  

6-Missing Granules: When a roof is first replaced, it’s normal to have some granules (small ceramic coated rock specs that cover an asphalt shingle’s surface) dislodged from the shingles.  However, if this continues, your roof’s lifespan will be greatly decreased because the asphalt on your shingle has been exposed to weather elements.  If you are noticing this problem on an older roof, it’s likely that it needs to be replaced. 

7- Blistering: Blisters which look like bubbles just under the surface of your shingle’s granules are caused by moisture trapped in a shingle.  The shingle may not need to be replaced until it breaks open.  Once a shingle breaks open, it may become discolored and water leakage may become as issue.

8- Flashing that is damaged: Roof flashing is a piece of sheet metal placed on the joints in a roof to keep water from seeping into the structure.  It is installed before the shingles.  Flashing that has not been installed correctly or is damaged can cause leaking.  In some cases, flashing is able to be replaced in the damaged area only.

Lindus Construction offers both metal & asphalt roofing systems.  In 2011, they were recognized by GAF (North America’s largest manufacturer of commercial and residential roofing) as the #1 GAF Roofer in the country.  Lindus Construction’s successes of past recognitions include winning all 6 of GAF’s excellence awards in 2011 & 2010.  Only the top 3% of all roofing contractors have qualified as Master Elite™ contractors.  To become a factory-certified GAF Master Elite™ roofing contractor, companies must be fully licensed, adequately insured, have a demonstrated reputation for providing quality roofing services and be committed to on-going professional training.

Call us now at 1-800-873-1451 or check us out on the web at www.lindusconstruction.com to schedule a free in-home estimate today. Tune into AM 830 WCCO on Saturdays from 9:00-10:00am hosted by Denny Long and Andy Lindus to ask questions regarding your home improvement projects.

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