Article Title: How to Find a Professional Roofing Contractor

Excerpt: Check for a permanent place of business and telephone, tax I.D. and California roofing contractors license (license C39) numbers. You can contact the California State Licensing Board at (800) 321-2752 or www.cslb.ca.gov for more information. Insist on seeing copies of the contractor's liability and workers' compensation insurance certificates. Make sure the coverages are in effect through the duration of the job. Look for a company with a proven track record that readily offers client references and a list of completed projects. Call these clients to find out whether they were satisfied. Insist on a written proposal and examine it for complete descriptions of the work and specifications, including approximate starting and completion dates and payment procedures. Check to see if the contractor is a member of any local, state, regional or national industry associations, such as the Roofing Contactors Association of California and NRCA. Call your local Better Business Bureau to check for any complaints that have been filed. Have the contractor explain his project supervision and quality-control procedures. Request the name of the person who will be in charge, how many workers will be required and the estimated time of completion. Carefully read and understand any roofing warranty offered and watch for provisions that would void it. Keep a healthy skepticism about the lowest bid. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Remember, price is only one criterion for selecting a roofing contractor. Professionalism and quality workmanship also should weigh heavily on your decision.

Article Title: Hendricks: 'It's all about treating people right'

Excerpt: You could back up a red, white and blue ABC Supply Co. semi-tractor trailer and likely not have enough room for the awards the Beloit-based distributor of roofing and building supplies has racked up.

Excerpt: That's not news to ABC founder Ken Hendricks. It's more of an affirmation of what he's believed since starting the company 25 years ago. The company has one guiding principle: Take care of contractors better than any other distributor by understanding their businesses and offering products and services carefully selected to meet their unique needs.

Excerpt: "We have no hierarchy here," he said. "I talk with people all over the country, and many of them are always asking me where I find all these great employees. "I really don't; they're the same people as those working everywhere else." But the main difference, he said, is that each employee is respected, paid fairly and is actively involved in the wild success of ABC, the largest wholesale distributor of roofing in the United States and one of the nation's largest distributors of siding, windows and other building products.

Article Title: BBB says roofer fabricated report

Excerpt: The BBB offers the following advice before hiring a roofing company: # Check with your Better Business Bureau for a reliability report before doing business by calling (615) 242-4222 or check online at www.gobbb.org. # Ask for proof of a contractors license and insurance coverage %u2014 and verify the information with the Contractors Licensing Board by calling (615) 741-8307. # Never do business with a repair crew that knocks on your door unless you can verify their contractors license. # Never pay for the entire job in advance or give cash to a sales person or contractor. # Ask for identification, such as a driver's license %u2014 do not accept business cards or name badges as identification.

Article Title: Jailed roofer is back on job

Excerpt: James Moran Jr., the Concord roofer who was jailed in 2004 and ordered not to own, operate or manage a home contracting business for 10 years, has recently begun working for a contracting business established by his girlfriend.

Excerpt: Since 1999, more than a dozen customers have sued Moran, accusing him of taking money and not finishing the job or doing such shoddy work they had to hire someone else to redo it. Many won court-ordered settlements against Moran, but few, if any, have collected because he has declared bankruptcy twice since 1995.

Article Title: Cool Tile Roofing

Excerpt: Cool roofing continues to be a hot topic as more building efficiency standards are implemented at the state and federal level. Builders, architects, and consumers are seeking new and innovative ways to help reduce energy costs. The Tile Roofing Institute (TRI) has been working to develop test data that shows the natural energy-saving benefits of tile roofing systems.

Excerpt: What the public doesn’t yet understand is that an attractive dark-color roof can be made to reflect light just like that of a white roof in the near-infrared spectrum. Newly developed complex inorganic color pigments can be added to darker roofing products in order to improve solar reflectance. These pigments or Cool Roof Color Materials (CRCMs) will ultimately increase the range of available products that meet new energy-saving code standards.

Excerpt: Field tests indicated a 70% drop in heat flow crossing the deck of a clay tile roof as compared to a direct-nailed asphalt shingle roof. In addition, with the clay tile roof there was a 60% higher reduction in the amount of heat penetrating the ceiling of the attic. For concrete tiles (flat and medium-profile), solar reflectance and thermal emittance levels were closer to those of asphalt shingles. However, the heat transfer through the roof and ceiling of the attic with tile roofing was half that of the asphalt shingle roof. This is due to the air channel that exists under tile, which dissipates heat away from the deck.

Article Title: Cool Clay Tile

Excerpt: But all tiles are not created equal. With an increasing demand for environmentally-friendly and energy-efficient products, MCA%u2019s clay roof tile, in an array of colors, has earned a Cool Roof rating by the Cool Roof Rating Council (CRRC).

Excerpt: Maruhachi Ceramics of America (MCA) is one of several industrial partners who participated in a California Energy Commission Public Interest Research (PIER) project that made cool-colored roofing products a market reality. Clay tiles contain complex inorganic color pigments that boost their reflectance in the infrared spectrum. A matte glazed process is used to add color to the surface of a clay tile. Once matte glazed, the clay is kiln-fired. The firing temperature, the atmosphere, and the pigments affect the final color and solar reflectance, which can be further increased with the help of new “cool roof” colors. The color is permanent and does not fade over time. In a report prepared by the Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) for the U.S Department of Energy, Dr. William Miller’s research concluded that certain clay tiles exceed in solar reflectance. Tests also showed that after three years of exposure the clay roof tiles still met, or exceeded, California’s Title 24 Cool Roof standard of 40% solar reflectance and thermal emittance requirement. MCA offers 33 colors rated by the Cool Roof Rating Council that meet or exceed the 40% requirement.

Excerpt: The 2008 update to California’s Title 24 is expected to prescribe new design criteria to reduce energy consumption, with residential cool roofs being one of the options. According to Bob Hale, sales manager at MCA, “While other roofing product manufacturers may scramble to meet the conditions, MCA clay roof tiles, recognized by CRRC, LEED’s qualifying, and Energy Star approved, already satisfy the requirement.” Rich in history and recognized all over the world for its renowned beauty, clay roof tile is at the forefront in energy efficiency in an environmentally conscious modern world.

Article Title: Concrete and Tile

Excerpt: Concrete tiles are made of extruded concrete that is colored. Traditional roofing tiles are made from clay. Concrete and clay tile roofing systems are durable, aesthetically appealing, and low in maintenance. They also provide energy savings and are environmentally friendly. And, although material and installation costs are higher for concrete and clay tile roofs, when evaluated on a price versus performance basis, they may out perform other roofing materials.

Excerpt: Concrete and clay tile roofing systems are also energy efficient, helping to maintain livable interior temperatures (in both cold and warm climates) at a lower cost than other roofing systems. Because of the thermal capacity of roof tiles and the ventilated air space that their placement on the roof surface creates, a tile roof can lower air conditioning costs in hotter climates and produce more constant temperatures in colder regions, which reduces potential ice accumulation.

Excerpt: Tile roofing systems are made from naturally occurring materials and can be easily recycled into new tiles or other useful products. And, they are produced without the use of chemical preservatives, and do not deplete limited natural resources.

Article Title: Decay Resistance

Excerpt: # Roof overhangs: These are not just for shade but are an effective investment in the longevity of doors, window framing and siding. Two-foot-wide overhangs provide the best balance of water shedding and shade benefits without creating wind load uplift challenges; 18-inch overhangs can suffice. # Roof pitch: Although roofs should be sloped, a very steep slope does not shed water away from the house as well. A roof flatter than a 3:12 slope (3 inch rise per foot of horizontal run) is at greater risk of both leaks and high wind loads; one steeper than 6:12 can increase moisture problems and wind loads. Avoid details and trim that allow puddling and collection of water. Make sure decks, balconies, trim and all other protrusions are sloped. # Gutters: Where overhangs are inadequate to shed water from walls, screened or specialized clog-free gutter and downspout systems are helpful to reduce splash-back on the walls and direct water away from the foundation.

Excerpt: * Design: Choose a simple roof design and avoid flat roof segments. Complex “designer roofs” are more prone to leak problems than simple designs without valleys and roof/wall intersections. Simple hip roofs offer several advantages. * Drip edge: The outer edge of all roof decking should be protected with a metal or plastic drip edge to direct water away and prevent it from clinging and moving under the roof. * Flashing: All flashings should be integrated shingle fashion with the roofing as well as sealed. Where a roof segment ends against a wall, install step flashing on each course of shingle and apply an adhesive membrane strip over the step flashings along the wall sheathing. This will keep water that runs down the wall from seeping under the shingles. At the bottom of that roof-wall intersection, use a kick-out flashing to divert the water running off the roof away from the wall. (Step flashing & Kick-out flashing-Image 1) * Underlayment: Roofing underlayment is an important second line of defense against water that gets under the roofing. Consider using a heavier roofing felt or membrane under curved tiles (Spanish, Mediterranean tiles) and v-crimp or corrugated metal roofing.

Excerpt: # A drainage plane can be created by using housewrap or building paper installed shingle fashion, or by sealing the seams of foam sheathings with foil tape. Non-perforated housewraps are recommended behind wood siding and brick veneer because wood and mortar can leach surfactants that allow water to penetrate the tiny perforations. Special attention is needed to make sure the drainage plane provides complete protection at windows and doors. # Window and door flashing: All openings in wood frame walls must be properly flashed, especially window sill corners, but this is often omitted or not detailed correctly. Water should not be able to drip behind the housewrap or flashings or seep into the corners of a window or door opening. Shingle-fashion installation must be maintained throughout. For example, the top of a window flange (nail-on frame) should be slipped behind the drainage-plane housewrap or paper, but the bottom flange should be on top of the paper. Recently developed window and door flashings products and techniques provide fast, easy and dependable long-term performance. Effective sill flashing systems should include a back-dam or slope to drain outward under the window unit, seamless corner protection and shingle-fashion integration with the housewrap.

Article Title: Gutters and down spouts

Excerpt: The purpose of gutter and leader (downspout) systems is to collect rainwater from the roof and direct it away from the building foundation by means of leader extensions, splash blocks, or underground drain lines.

Excerpt: A variety of products are available to retard the build-up of leaves, twigs, dirt, and asphalt roofing granules in gutters. Historically these have been galvanized or vinyl-coated metal or plastic screening material, but recently a host of "gutter guard" products has emerged.

Article Title: Perfect Roofs, Gutters And Grading

Excerpt: Remember These Points About Gutters - Your gutter can be made of plastic, aluminum or galvanized steel - The placing of the gutters is very crucial; lower the gutters as the roof steep rises - Check the position and functioning of the hangers and fasteners where the gutter is exposed - Make sure that the gutter joints are soldered and sealed with mastic - Ensure uniform path and slopes for smooth flow of water in the gutters to the lower downspouts. If there is a screen makes sure it does not hinder the drainage - If the gutter is without screens make sure that you have installed basket strainers at each downspout - In extreme cold weather, it is essential to see that ice dams are not forming on the pitched roofs blocking the flow of water. Also check the edges and the attic. If you detect a problem use a de-icing cable - Check the roof, interior walls and ceilings for water damage - The water should always be directed to a gutter and the flow should be from higher to lower gutters to downspouts

Article Title: Flat Roof Leaks - Try the Newer Rubber Roofs!

Excerpt: The new single ply membranes are actually synthetic compounds that can be mechanically fastened or glued down to your roof deck. Some of the materials are synthetic rubbers while others are special PVC plastics. There are several other types as well. All seem to have very respectable life spans. Warranties of 20 or more years are not uncommon.

Excerpt: The cost of the single ply membranes is not too bad. A typical job that requires no removal of old roofing might cost between $250 - 400 per square. One square of roofing equals 100 square feet of roofing area. This cost will vary depending upon how many obstacles are in or near your roof, whether you decide to upgrade your insulation, and the overall quality of the roofing membrane you choose to use. For sake of comparison, a standard shingle roof on a house might cost between $60 - 80 per square.

Article Title: Selecting a Roofing contractor

Excerpt: Buying a new roof system is an important investment. Before you spend your money, spend time learning how to evaluate roofing contractors. You should insist on working with a professional roofing contractor. The National Roofing Contractor's Association has developed the following guidelines for selecting a professional roofing contractor.

Excerpt: Check for a permanent place of business, telephone number, tax identification number and, where applicable, a business license. Don't hesitate to ask a roofing contractor for proof of insurance. In fact, insist on seeing copies of his liability coverage and workers' compensation certificates. Make sure the coverages are in effect through the duration of the job. Many building and home owners have been dragged into litigation involving uninsured roofing contractors. Also, if a contractor is not properly insured, you may be liable for accidents that occur on your property. Check to see if the roofing contractor is properly licensed or bonded. Some states have specific licensing requirements, and others do not. Your state's Department of Professional Regulation or Licensing Board will have this information. Make sure the contractor is financially stable. A professional roofing contractor can provide current financial information about his company. Look for a company with a proven track record that offers client references and a list of completed projects. Call these clients to find out whether they were satisfied. Insist on a detailed, written proposal and examine it for complete descriptions of the work and specifications, including approximate starting and completion dates and payment procedures. Have the contractor list the roofing manufacturers with which his firm is a licensed or approved applicator. Most roof systems require special application expertise to achieve lasting quality. Have the contractor explain his project supervision and quality-control procedures. Request the name of the person who will be in charge of your project, how many workers will be required and estimated completion time. Check to see if the contractor is a member of any regional or national industry associations, such as the National Roofing Contractor's Association. Being a member of industry associations demonstrates a commitment to professionalism. Call your local Better Business Bureau or Department of Professional Regulation to check for possible complaints filed against the contractor. Carefully read and understand any roofing warranties offered, and watch for provisions that would void it. Choose a company committed to worker safety and education. Ask the contractor what type of safety training he provides for his workers and what industry education programs they have attended. The best roofing contractor is only as good as the workers who install the roof system.

Excerpt: Keep a healthy skepticism about the lowest bid. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Many fly-by-night contractors' below-cost bids seem attractive, but these contractors often are uninsured and perform substandard work. Remember, price is only one of the criteria for selecting a roofing contractor. Professionalism, experience and quality workmanship also should weigh heavily in your decision.

Article Title: Why Roofs Leak

Excerpt: For their part, architects are notoriously adept at brushing off the leak problem. Wright once received a call from an irate client who complained that the roof was leaking all over her dinner guests. "Tell him to move his chair," he responded. To the complaint of another waterlogged client, he calmly declared, "If it didn't leak, it wouldn't be a roof."

Excerpt: Given that architects have such a hard time designing watertight roofs, what chance does a layperson have? You'd be surprised. Here are a few simple, common-sense suggestions that can help minimize the likelihood of leaks:

Excerpt: Keep the roof design as simple as possible. Leaks seldom occur out in the middle of a roof's flat surfaces, or field, in roofing parlance. Rather, they tend to develop in the many nooks and crannies formed where roof planes intersect, or where roofs abut walls. Hence, the simpler the design, the fewer the intersections, the lesser the likelihood of leaks. Be especially wary of those craggy alpine roofscapes favored by current architectural fashion. All those cute little peaks and dormers can become a major leakage headache a few years down the road.

Excerpt: Minimize penetrations. In roofspeak, this term refers to pipes, vents, chimneys, skylights, and any other openings that interrupt the roof's membrane. Like intersections, they're far more likely to develop leaks than the field of the roof. Minimize the number of vents and flues penetrating the roof surface, and use a few large skylights rather than a lot of little ones. And don't locate skylights in roof valleys, where it's difficult to seal or flash them properly.

Excerpt: Avoid built-up flat roofs whenever possible. Granted, built-up roofs are cheap, easy to construct, and great for covering oddly shaped floor plans. However, without conscientious maintenance, which they seldom get, built-up roofs simply won't stay watertight. A half-century of painful experience has borne this fact out, suggesting that our pitch-roof loving forebears were probably right after all.