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Aside from protecting your home, did you know that your roof plays a major role in its energy efficiency? By choosing high-quality, energy-efficient roofs, you can significantly lower your energy expenditure and save up on energy bills. With summer coming around the corner in the next few months, you'll be glad you had energy-efficiency focused roof replacements.

Let's learn more about them in today's post.

Choosing the Right Energy-Efficient Roofing Material

When selecting an energy-efficient roofing material, consider the following options:

Cool Roofs: These are made of reflective materials that deflect sunlight and absorb less heat than traditional roofing materials. Most metal, tile, and asphalt shingle manufacturers have roofing systems that have the traits of a cool roof.

Metal Roofing: Despite being made from highly conductive material, metal roofs are highly reflective and effectively reduce heat transfer into the building. Using special coatings, they can reflect heat and absorb less of it during summer. Furthermore, they're widely popular because of their durability and lifespan.

Green Roofs: Green or living roofs are specially constructed roofs with plants and greenery to reduce your roof's heat absorption. With a layer of soil and trees keeping your home in good shape, you can conveniently insulate your home. Moreover, well-constructed ones will also improve air quality and provide additional environmental benefits.

Solar Panels: While not a roofing material, solar panels can be installed on the roof to harness solar energy and reduce reliance on traditional energy sources. They also reduce heat absorption by acting as a secondary protective layer above your existing roof.

Related: A Roofing Maintenance Checklist for Spring

Other Ways to Reduce Energy Consumption in Spring

Aside from roofing quality, other components also reduce energy consumption by improving insulation or indoor temperatures. 

Excellent insulation systems material reduces heat transfer from the roof to your attic and vice versa. Insulation materials such as fiberglass, cellulose, or foam board can be installed under the roof deck or between the rafters to improve energy efficiency.

Next, consider having adequate roof ventilation to prevent heat buildup in the attic and improve the lifespan of both your heating and cooling system and your roof. By letting hot air plenty of avenues to escape from your roof, you extend your roof's lifespan and reduce your cooling bills at the same time.

Related: Prevent Small Animal Attic Infiltration During Spring

Lastly, be vigilant about sealing gaps and cracks can prevent heat loss in the winter and heat gain in the summer. This can be a tricky problem as many of them are typically hidden from sight – but not to a professional roofing company such as SJ Winn Construction.

If you need quality roofing services in Torrington, CT, you can always count on us at SJ Winn Construction, a reliable GAF-certified roofing company in the neighborhood. Call us today or visit our social media page to know more about what we can do for you.

One often overlooked yet highly impactful area is the roof. Asphalt shingle roofs, a favorite among many homeowners, can be transformed into energy-efficient systems with thoughtful upgrades. In this article, let's learn how you can improve your roof energy efficiency this New Year.

Energy-Efficient Shingles

One of the most effective ways to boost the energy efficiency of your asphalt shingle roof is by investing in energy-efficient shingles. Traditional asphalt shingles absorb and retain heat, contributing to increased indoor temperatures and higher cooling costs. Energy-efficient shingles, on the other hand, are designed with reflective materials that bounce the sun's rays away from the roof, reducing heat absorption and keeping the home cooler.

These shingles typically have a higher solar reflectance and emissivity, meaning they reflect more sunlight and release absorbed heat more efficiently. This helps maintain a comfortable indoor temperature, reducing the reliance on air conditioning, and consequently cutting down energy bills.

Attic Ventilation

Proper attic ventilation plays a crucial role in enhancing the energy efficiency of your asphalt shingle roof. Inadequate ventilation can lead to heat buildup in the attic, causing the shingles to age prematurely and reducing the overall energy efficiency of the home.

Installing ventilation systems, such as ridge vents and soffit vents, helps create a balanced airflow through the attic space. This prevents the accumulation of hot air, reducing the strain on your cooling systems and promoting a more comfortable living environment. Additionally, a well-ventilated attic helps prevent moisture buildup, preventing potential issues like mold and mildew, which can compromise both the structural integrity of the roof and indoor air quality.

Home Insulation

To create a truly energy-efficient roofing system, addressing insulation is paramount. Proper insulation not only helps regulate indoor temperatures but also minimizes the transfer of heat between the interior and exterior of your home.

Consider upgrading your attic insulation to materials with higher thermal resistance (R-value). This could include fiberglass, cellulose, or spray foam insulation, which are all effective at reducing heat transfer. Adequate insulation not only keeps your home warmer in winter and cooler in summer but also diminishes the load on heating and cooling systems, leading to significant energy savings over time.

If you need high-quality roofing solutions, you can always count on us at SJ Winn Construction. We're a company that goes above and beyond your expectations. Call us today to know more about what we can do for you.

Replacing a roof before selling your home can offer numerous benefits that can significantly impact the sale process and the overall value of your property. Here are some key advantages of investing in a new roof before putting your house on the market:

Enhances Curb Appeal

A new roof dramatically improves the overall appearance of your home. Potential buyers are often attracted to properties that look well-maintained and aesthetically pleasing. A new roof can instantly enhance your home's curb appeal, making it more enticing to prospective buyers.

Increases Property Value

A well-maintained and structurally sound roof adds value to your property. Appraisers and real estate agents often consider the condition of the roof when determining the market value of a home. By investing in a new roof, you can justify a higher asking price for your property, potentially increasing your profits.

Boosts Buyer Confidence

A new roof gives buyers confidence in the condition of the home. It assures them that they won't have to deal with costly roof repairs or replacements soon after purchasing the property. This confidence can lead to a quicker sale and a smoother negotiation process.

Prevents Delays and Negotiation Hurdles

If a potential buyer's home inspector identifies issues with the roof, it can lead to delays in closing the sale. By proactively replacing the roof, you can avoid these last-minute complications and negotiations, making the selling process more efficient and less stressful.

Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings

 Newer roofing materials often come with enhanced energy-efficient features. This can be an attractive selling point for eco-conscious buyers. Additionally, a well-insulated roof can help regulate the home's temperature, potentially reducing energy bills for the future homeowners.

Attracts a Wider Range of Buyers

A new roof appeals to a broader audience, including first-time homebuyers, families, and even investors. These potential buyers may be willing to pay a premium for a property with a new roof, as it saves them the hassle and cost of dealing with roof issues post-purchase.

Faster Sale

Homes with recently replaced roofs tend to sell faster than those needing roof repairs or replacements. The improved condition of your property can attract more buyers and lead to a quicker sale, allowing you to move on to your next chapter more swiftly.

Peace of Mind

Lastly, knowing that you're selling a home with a new roof provides peace of mind. You can confidently market your property, knowing that you've taken the necessary steps to ensure its structural integrity and appeal, making the selling process less stressful for you as a seller.

In conclusion, replacing your roof before selling your home is a wise investment that can pay off in terms of increased property value, faster sale, and a smoother transaction process. It not only attracts buyers but also gives them confidence in their purchase, making your home a more desirable and valuable asset on the real estate market.

Spring is the perfect time to ensure your roof is in top shape. Winter can severely damage various roof components, leading to premature aging and deterioration. With a reliable local roofing contractor, you can determine your roof's issues and take action as quickly as possible. Learn more about why you should have a roofing inspection during spring in this post.

No Rains and Snow

Rain and snow are disruptive to roofing operations. Roofers can't tread over your roofs safely and securely when it rains or due to slippery snow. During spring, the weather is clear, and it isn't too hot on most days. The contractor can conveniently set up their scaffolding to reach every part of the system for inspections and repairs.

Inspection Hindrances Are Nowhere

Snow and ice buildup could soak your asphalt shingles and cause blisters and cracks during spring. Roofers can easily find hidden damage among the visible ones you've seen after the snow has melted. With an inspection, roofers can also perform minor repairs that restore their performance and lengthen their lifespan. They can also tell you how much life and dependability your roof has left until it needs a replacement.

Be Ready for Summer Heat

Summers can bring in extremely hot temperatures and severe storms that could crack or split your asphalt shingles. Spring inspections and repairs ensure your roof is ready for anything. Schedule an inspection with your contractor to prepare your roof before heavy rains get clogged on your gutters. Roofers can repair and replace damaged shingles and your gutter system to keep your home safe from extreme summer and autumn weather.

Available Contractors

You can find plenty of contractors available to inspect, repair, and service your roof during spring. In this season, some roofers also have discounts for their services to attract more business. The only downside of spring roofing is the number of people you're competing with; many homeowners want to have their roofs inspected before summer arrives. If your favorite local roofer didn't accommodate you, it would be a huge problem.

Suppliers Are Stocked

Alongside roofers, suppliers also know that many homeowners would order high-quality materials and other supplies to restore their roof's functionality. If you plan to replace the entire system after winter, now's the best time to ask the hardware supplier if they have your preferred roofing style and manufacturer. Before anything else, work with a certified contractor to install the roof under warranty.

Tip: You Can Get Winter Roofing Help

Winter might be difficult for roofers, but it doesn't mean they won't provide services. If there's no blizzard or extreme weather, they can inspect your roof on a clear day and perform repairs or replacements where necessary. In some cases, roofers can even give you discounts on their services.

SJ Winn Construction is a reliable roofing company with decades of experience, knowledge, and equipment that can inspect, repair, and install your roofs. Let us help you ensure your roof system works well and handles any difficult weather coming your way. Call us today to learn more about what we can do for you.

Roof contractors may bundle your gutter and roof material replacement in a single offer, often at a sweet price you won't find elsewhere. It's tempting to take this offer immediately, but you may save more if you decide not to replace your gutters and roof. Carefully evaluating your gutter's condition, age, and other factors will help you avoid unnecessary costs and tearing down a completely capable system.

In this post, you'll learn about various factors to consider before replacing your gutters and your roof.

Condition

See if your gutter is underperforming and needs replacement. A reputable roofer will suggest replacing your gutters with your old roof material because they assume it was installed simultaneously. They may have also inspected and seen signs that your gutter is in bad shape and may not last long during heavy summer rains and extreme snowfall.

To know for sure, you can ask your roofer to conduct a deep evaluation of your gutter's status. Don't let the roofer's suggestion color your decision – let the facts, such as deep gutter holes that caulk or sealing cannot fix or rotting soffits due to prolonged moisture exposure, speak for themselves.

Age

As mentioned in the previous section, you can replace your gutter with your roof if installed simultaneously. For many homes, this is the case. A roof and gutter system about 20-25 years old will need replacements immediately because it is a huge leak risk and will cause significant leaks and structural damage if you leave it unattended.

Costs

Receiving a bundled offer to replace gutters and roofing might sound wonderful at first. But, you should consider the cost of replacing roofing materials and gutters individually. Sometimes, the difference between bundled and individual service offers is insignificant, making it better to consult your roofer again the month after to replace your gutters.

Delaying your gutter replacement for weeks or months can be helpful. You can apply for a loan to cover the costs, especially if replacing your gutters before winter is critical. You can also get quotes from other roofers in your area to get a fair price on your upcoming gutter replacement.

Limitations

Delaying your gutter replacement until after the roofer replaces your roof overcomes several limitations than if you did otherwise. First, certified roofers can only install products from their partner manufacturers. If you prefer GAF roofing systems over the roofer's manufacturer, they can't install that for you – they're uncertified to do so.

Second, roofers may offer the service cheaply because they can source affordable but subpar gutter materials to replace your roof. You might think you're paying less for an efficient system, but the lower cost is likely due to poor materials.

If you need to evaluate your gutter's condition before planning a gutter and roof replacement, call experts who care about your roof genuinely. SJ Winn Construction is a GAF-certified roofer with decades of experience and knowledge in improving and maintaining the roofs of homes in your area. Call us today to learn more about what we can do for you.

If you've just moved into the neighborhood with questions about the seller's roof, have a roofing contractor inspect it to learn about your roof's age and benefits. Learn more about why you should know your roof's age below.

The Time for Roof Replacements

A timely replacement ensures your home has optimal protection at all times. The timing and material used for the replacement ensure the roof has a long lifespan and outstanding performance. Any wise and helpful roofer would recommend replacing your roof with a system guaranteed to last for decades. Excellent systems from renowned asphalt shingle manufacturers, such as GAF, can provide 50 years of protection against storms and extreme weather conditions. 

Issues You Can Expect

Well-manufactured and installed roofs can protect you against anything, but they will deteriorate in performance as they age. During the first five years of a roof, you can expect it to handle any snow and hail storm with minor damage that local roofers can fix.

By its tenth year, you may notice cracks and splits into various areas of the roof. You might also see missing shingles after a windstorm passes because of the shingle's weakened integrity protecting your home for a decade. Lastly, your roof will need replacement within a year if it has already crossed its 20-year mark.

Warranty Assessments

Pay attention to the manufacturer's terms and conditions. You might have a lifetime prorated warranty, which is usually the case. These warranties consider the age of your roof if it fails before its expected end of life. Thus, a roof that failed within five years can expect a full roof material replacement than a roof that becomes dysfunctional by its 15th year.

Property Sale Investment

Knowing your roof's age helps you decide to invest in replacing it before selling the property. Homebuyers are willing to invest higher in properties with a new roof. It eliminates the hassle and time of having a roof replacement. Furthermore, sellers who go for a roof replacement make it easier for them or their realtors to market the property and find viable leads.

How to Know Your Roof's Age

You can learn about your roof's age through a roof inspection, a roofer's records, or with the help of the local government. If there's no existing roof record with the previous seller and local government, roofers can inspect and estimate the system's remaining lifespan. Otherwise, you can contact your seller's trusted roofing contractor to know about the roof's history of installation and repairs. The local government should also have a record of the property's initial building date.

Need quality roofing services from top-notch roofers in your area? SJ Winn Construction is a trusted name by many homeowners in your neighborhood. We provide best-in-class roofing installation, repair, and replacement. Our team also looks after numerous buildings and homes in your area. Get first-class roofing quality from a GAF Master Elite team. Call us today to learn more about everything that we can do for you.

The roof protects against direct hailstone impact, heavy rainfall, snow, and severe heat. If a small part fails, it can fall apart and cause immense damage to your interiors. This post shows why roof repairs should be a top priority for many homeowners.

Save More on Repairs

Emergency roof repairs are expensive. Roofers must remove huge sections of damaged roof materials and replace them. In some cases, you might have your entire roof replaced if the damage is extensive enough. 

Regular roof maintenance allows roofers to repair hidden damage on your roof. These can appear minor, then worsen when left without professional attention. Roof maintenance repairs cost about 10% of an emergency roof repair and replacement.

Ensure Your Insurance Claims

You might break your insurance or warranty contract requirements if you don't have regular roof maintenance and repairs. Insurers and roof material manufacturer contracts often require homeowners to maintain their roofs regularly to ensure full coverage. 

Typically, insurers and roofing manufacturers ask you to install your roof with a qualified roofer as part of the requirements. They'll likely ask you to maintain your roof with regular inspections to ensure it's working well and roofers can address its minor issues quickly.

Improve Curb Appeal

Damaged roofs can leave buyers with a poor impression. They might also think that your living rooms, bathrooms, and other areas might suffer from neglect. Properties that look great from the curb are easier to sell and highly valued than otherwise, so make roof repairs and replacements a priority if you plan to sell the property in the next few years. 

A Longer Roof Lifespan

A well-maintained roof has a longer lifespan than a neglected one. Addressing any damage ensures it can withstand any extreme weather event. Furthermore, no small damage is severely exacerbated after rainfalls or snowstorms.

Roofers also spend less time on well-maintained roofs. Their inspections and repairs are faster, saving money in the process. 

Common Damage to Roofing Materials

Here are a few explanations of common roof damage on roofing materials.

Blisters

Blisters occur due to moisture infiltration in the asphalt shingle. These roofing materials expand under hot weather and poor attic ventilation and insulation and absorb moisture from the air. The heat then evaporates the water, which pushes against the asphalt shingles to escape and cause blisters. 

Splits

Diagonal splits on asphalt shingles occur due to expansion and contraction. Their adhesive joints start to deform as the shingles age and go through hot and cold temperatures. Once it shrinks, the asphalt shingle will crack diagonally.

Hailstone Impact

Hailstorms can shower roofs with ice debris of varying sizes. Pea-sized hail causes negligible damage to roofs, but softball-sized hailstones can cause blisters and force granules to shed from asphalt shingles. When this occurs, a roofing expert should inspect and address the issue.

If you have yet to find a reliable roofer, count on SJ Winn Construction. We are a renowned roofer with decades of experience helping homes in your neighborhood have well-installed roofs that protect them from the elements. Call us today to learn more about what we can do for you.

Your roofers can repair your roof if it has minor damage and a few missing shingles. On the other hand, they may recommend re-roofing or replacing the entire system when the damage is much to contain, and plenty of asphalt shingles are missing.

Re-roofing and replacing a roof has different benefits and suitable applications. You can learn about each of them below.

Re-Roofing

In case of emergencies, re-roofing is the best option. It has its respective pros and cons. Roofers will recommend it because it takes about a small percentage of the time it takes to replace an entire roof.

Pros

It's faster to re-roof than replace a roof. Your contractor will nail a new layer of asphalt shingles over the old system. This works much better than wrapping it in tarpaulin because it looks great and fills the roof area's missing and damaged shingles. Furthermore, its labor costs are much more affordable.

Cons

On the other hand, re-roofed materials only have a short lifespan and are prone to damage. The moisture from old asphalt shingles that transfer will soften the new shingles, affecting their integrity and performance. The moisture will soon dry, causing blisters, cracks, and splits in various areas of the roofing material.

When to Use

If you want to repair your roof fast and want to use something other than tarpaulin, re-roofing is a good alternative. It may cost more, but it improves your home's performance and curb appeal. However, we strongly recommend having a complete roof tear-off and replacement instead.

Roof Replacement

Replacing a roof is a practical investment rather than re-roofing. The service lets roofers inspect the entire roof system for damage. Roofers will remove all your asphalt shingles. Then, they would check the rafters and sheathing for wood rot and moisture damage. Aged roofs typically endure much structural damage due to moisture, and a roof tear-off restores their performance efficiently.

Pros

A roof replacement is the intended way to fix a roof. Roofers can examine the roof structure, ensure it can withstand the new roof material's weight, and replace them when necessary. Then, new asphalt shingles won't absorb any moisture from old shingles that were removed from the roof.

One more advantage is you will receive the material's full warranty benefit. For example, your roof's materials and labor will have full manufacturer coverage. If the roof material has defects or the labor failed due to specific issues, the manufacturer and roofer will address it for you.

Cons

Roof replacement has its downsides. The service takes a few weeks to a month to accomplish, making it slower than the week-long average re-roofing replacement period. 

This service is also noisy, especially if you intend to stay in your home throughout the project. You and your family will remain relatively safe during a roof replacement, but the hammering and loud noises can wake you up or disrupt your work in the home office.

When to Use

It is highly recommended to have roof replacements than a re-roof. The service lets roofers check the roof's actual condition and suggest ways to improve and upgrade it. Furthermore, it gives you full warranty coverage and a guaranteed long-term roof lifespan and performance.

With SJ Winn Construction, your roof is in good hands. Numerous houses and neighborhoods in your area trust us because of our dedication to high-quality roofing services. As a GAF-certified roofer, you'll always see top results with our team of professionals, so call us today.

Buyers look deeply into the quality of the roof of a home up for sale. Put yourself in the shoes of a buyer: as one, would you buy a property with a poor roof condition that may break down in the next year or two? Surely, you would not. As a seller, improve your roof before selling the property and benefit from the following.

Attract More Eyeballs

Putting your home with a beautiful roof on an online listing will attract more eyeballs because of its charm and personality. A new roof enormously impacts the entire property's aesthetic. Most buyers will pay extra for a home that will only have them move in and enjoy its benefits rather than buy a more affordable one and have contractors look into, repair, or replace it eventually.

Increase Value

Most real estate agents highlight the roof's capabilities as a major selling point to their buyers. They can mention its brand, the system's benefits as the manufacturer published, and beyond. A roof replacement will cost thousands, but you'll also get higher than your investment. 

Provide Outstanding Protection

Buyers want a home that protects them from extreme weather conditions. There is great value emphasized in having a roof above your head every day. One that won't give you headaches is also valuable because it will lead rainfall straight to gutters, protect against hailstones, and more.

Reduce Maintenance Costs

Yearly roof maintenance can cost higher if the roof has significant damages. For example, a leaking roof with cracked or missing shingles will increase moisture inside the attic and cause mold growth. Repairing this may be much more expensive and cause grave health issues due to black mold.

Improve Energy Efficiency

Prospective buyers want a roof that protects them from the elements and can maintain their home's temperatures in any season. Real estate agents will highlight your roof's energy efficiency. For example, energy-efficient roofs like GAF systems will protect your home from the elements and reduce the need to increase your thermostat settings.

Give Yourself and Your Buyer Peace of Mind

Buyers want a home that will give them peace of mind. Sellers need to sell at a fair price. A new roof solves this problem by attracting more buyers to view your property. A newly installed one justifies a higher asking price because you're selling convenience and peace of mind aside from a house that won't fall apart after a single rainstorm.

We strongly recommend having your roof replaced to gain the following benefits. Make your home greatly attractive from any angle by improving its vibrant colors that show off its aesthetics. Ask your local contractor to learn the best ways to improve your roof before selling it.

SJ Winn Construction is a renowned contractor with decades of experience and knowledge in roofing. They have spent many years taking care of homes in your local area with high-quality roof repairs, replacements, maintenance services, and installations. You can count on us to achieve the best roof replacements to increase your home's value. Call us today to get started.

Roof replacements give you a fresh roof to protect against harsh weather and environmental harm. A sturdy roof can prolong your home's lifespan and increase its value because buyers know its worth. That said, you'll want a top-notch roofer to install a new one for your property. But be sure they're certified, insured, and licensed companies that can perform their tasks properly. Many neighbors may recommend a roofer who has no certification but can install a roof – think twice before hiring them.

Companies who lack the qualifications to install roofs will offer to do the job at a bargain price. They may have the skills of professional roofers or may even be made up of members from a former certified and insured company, but their lack of proper license and insurance will leave you with problems. For instance, if one of their team surfers an accident on your premises through no fault of your own, they can still hold you liable. Without workers compensation, you'll be the one to pay for their hospitalization and personal accident bills.

That said, high-qualified roofers with certification, insurance, and license always offer a contractor's liability insurance and workers compensation.

Contractor's Liability Insurance

A contractor's liability insurance ensures the company will pay for any damage to your property due to their worker's actions. It establishes the roofer's recognition of extreme danger in their occupation and importance of effective training for their team members.

Insurers only cover companies with contractors' liability insurance by asking about their licenses and certification. Well-trained and extensively knowledgeable roofers understand the right way to install the roof, keep themselves safe, and ensure there's zero damage to anything on the property.

Certification from manufacturers gives professional roofers further ways to drive down their contractor's liability insurance premiums. In-depth certification programs, especially at the elite level, reduce the risk of error and any accidents on the homeowner's premises. Plus, certified roofers give homeowners the maximum manufacturer's warranty available.

Workers Compensation Insurance

Contractor liability takes care of any damage to your property, while workers compensation ensures you won't be at fault when a contractor's worker is injured in your home. Uninsured roofers may have you pay for any personal injury that can happen. That said, workers compensation protects homeowners and roofers.

Roofing is a dangerous occupation mitigated by proper training and mentoring by professional companies. Workers compensation is a recognition by your roofer that accidents can still occur despite their safety operating procedures, knowledge, and experience. 

Your contract should explicitly state the name of the company and the homeowner's name. It should mention that the homeowner isn't responsible for any accident that happens to any worker, and then your roofer must write the name of the workers compensation provider that would handle all employee-related accidents in terms of compensation and hospitalization.

You probably want to work with a certified, licensed, and insured roofer at this point. Turn to the best in the business. SJ Winn Construction is a dependable roofing contractor with decades of experience servicing homes in your neighborhood. Our roofers are ready to go above and beyond your expectations. Call us today to get started.

CONTACT INFORMATION

156 Torrington Rd., Winsted,
Connecticut 06098

Phone: 860-379-8863
Email: [email protected]

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