Top Two Options for a New Roof

When a property needs a new roof, generally there are two options. They can choose to tear off the old roof and have it completely replaced, or they can have a roof overlay installed, also known as “re-roofing.” Continue reading to learn the difference between the two, including whether or not re-roofing is an accepted roof installation practice.

Indianapolis Rubber Roofing and Siding Contractors
Indianapolis Rubber Roofing and Siding Contractors 317-454-3612

Choosing Between Roof Replacement and a Roof Overlay

There are many factors that come into play when making the decision to tear off or overlay, which is why it is so vital to hire a dependable Indianapolis roofing company for professionalism and workmanship you can trust. As for installing a new roof, most properties have the option of either ripping off their old roofs and replacing them entirely, or re-roofing right on top of the existing roof.

Tear Offs

Many home and property owners opt to have their entire roof stripped down to the wooden beams. This is known as a “tear off” in the roofing industry. Many roofers firmly believe that the only true method of locating and repairing vulnerable areas of a roof is to strip it down to the plywood sheathing and start over. These are common areas where hidden water damage is discovered. These same roofers caution that there is a possibility that overlays add too much additional weight to a rooftop, which can increase even more with snow fall.

Re-Roofing

Re-roofing refers to roof overlays, which entail installing new roofing directly over the existing roofing. There are many debates on whether or not this is a good practice, but according to both the National Roofing Contractors Association and the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturer’s Association, re-roofing overlays are a approve as a general practice when permitted by local building codes. Furthermore, it is suggested that property owners can save up to 25% in installation and materials costs by opting for a roof overlay.

What General Contractors Recommend

Roofers are more on the side of tear offs than overlays, and for many good reasons. As mentioned, several roofing contractors believe that an overlay is just a waste of time and money since underlying damages cannot be seen or repaired. At the same time, roofers that are willing to provide overlays even warn that the job is more difficult and may take longer, especially for roofs that need flashing installed around chimneys and other potential entry points for water.

Are you interested in learning about the benefits of rubber roofing? Contact Restoration By L & B, LLC at 317-454-3612 for affordable rubber roof general contractor service in Indianapolis, Indiana. We also provide residential and commercial siding work.

You Should Also Like:

4 Ways to Finance Your Roof Repair or Replacement
Three Reasons Why SPF Roofing is a Disappointment
3 Good Reasons to Power Wash Your Siding

Indianapolis Indiana General Contractors
Indianapolis Indiana General Contractors 317-454-3612

4 Ways to Finance Your Roof Repair or Replacement

When it comes to major roofing repairs or replacements, you might not know much, but you do know one thing; it’s going to cost a lot of money. However, that does not mean that a new roof is not affordable. In fact, there are several financing options for paying for roof work in Indiana, so you are bound to find a funding method that works for you.

Continue reading to learn some of the best finance options for roof repair and replacement in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Indianapolis Roofing Contractors 317-454-3612
Indianapolis Roofing Contractors 317-454-3612

You Can Get Financed for a New or Repaired Roof

The average roof replacement costs between $5,000 and $10,000. Major roof repair comes in just below those marks. So, what does a homeowner do when they need costly roof work done? They can turn to one of these popular funding methods:

?☑ Credit

Credit payment is always an option for anyone who has good credit. If your income is sufficient and you have a good credit score, you can take the straightforward approach and put the purchase on credit. Making monthly or periodic credit payments for roof work can be convenient for those who meet these standards since you don’t have to work with a third-party lender or wait for loans to come through. Just be aware of APR’s, high-interest rates, and other related credit terms and conditions.

?☑ Personal Loan

Taking out a personal loan from your bank of choice is another common and workable solution for funding roof work. In addition to banks, homeowners also have the option of working with credit unions or online lenders. Personal loans do not require any equity, so they are well-suited for someone who has good credit, but wants to improve their credit, and has a steady income flow. Just be sure to pay attention to repayment schedule and interest rates terms.

?☑ FHA Loan

An FHA loan, or Federal Housing Administration loan, is another common fixed rate loan option for roof repair and replacement, but it is not suited for everyone. The federal government offers financing schemes for real estate owners looking to make certain renovations, but you must meet certain requirements to qualify for the program. To see if such a loan is a good fit for your home remodeling needs, start by looking for FHA-approved lenders, and request a consultation.

?☑ Home Equity Loan

You may have the option of securing a home equity loan or a home equity line of credit (HELOC) from your bank in order to fund a roof repair project. A home equity loan is much like a second mortgage in that you use your home as collateral to borrow more money, and then continue by making payments to pay it all off over time. A home equity line of credit (HELOC) is like a credit card that your bank gives you so that you can spread the cost of roof repair out over a longer period of time.

Indianapolis Roof Repair and Installation Contractors

Call Restoration By L & B, LLC at 317-454-3612 for roof repair and installation services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our general contractors service both residential and commercial clients. We use a comprehensive inspection and measurement process that ensures we are well-prepared to meet the exact needs of your roofing project. From start to finish, we stay in constant communication with our clients to confirm they are well-informed of our time-lines and agendas. Licensed general contractor, Lee Elliot, is happy to take your call and answer your questions about roof repair, rubber roofing, and more. Call 317-454-3612 for information about Indianapolis roofing repair or installation, today.

Top Reasons Why Roofs Leak This Time of Year

When your roof is leaking, it is not a good feeling. As a proud homeowner, you care about the structural integrity of your home and cringe at the thought of a major repair. Fortunately, a leaky roof is not always a disaster. Sometimes, they are a simple fix. By hiring professional roofing services, you can properly address any and every leaky roof issue you have. But in order to prevent future leaks, it is important to understand what causes them in the first place. This knowledge can help you improve your skills as a hands-on homeowner by giving you information about proper preventative maintenance.

There are many causes for roof leaks, but continue reading to learn the most common for this time of year.

Rubber Roofing and Siding Contractors 317-454-3612
Rubber Roofing and Siding Contractors 317-454-3612

Top Causes for a Leaking Roof

Attic Condensation – So often, a roof leak appears to be a problem with the roof, when in fact, it is a problem with the attic. Improper attic ventilation can cause excess moisture in the air from the bottom floors to buildup in the attic. This leads to an accumulation of moisture that seeps into your ceilings and walls.

Broken Shingles – Broken or cracked shingles is another common cause for roof leaks. This means it is imperative to repair broken or missing shingles right away!

Clogged Gutters – When gutters are clogged, they cannot perform their primary duty of directing rainwater away from the roof. Clogged gutters lead to water accumulation underneath shingles, which causes roof leaks.

Cracked Chimneys – Roof leaks are commonly caused by cracked or broken chimneys. When bricks and mortar around a chimney are in poor condition, they could cause water to seep in from the outside.

Cracked Flashing – Although a home’s chimney and skylights may be in good shape, the flashing around them can cause roof leaks if cracked or broken. In fact, it is one of the most common causes for leaky roofs.

Defective Skylights – When skylights are not properly sealed or installed, they can lead to water penetration through the roof. Whether worn sealant, cracked glass, or improper installation, defective skylights are a vital repair to have done immediately.

Fractured Vent Booting – Any sort of crack or fracture in a roof system can cause roof leaks, and vent booting is no different. Whether your roof has a gas vent or stack line, there is a boot around the base to prevent water penetration. When this fails, leaks may occur.

Ice Dams – In the winter when snow and ice are at their prime, ice dams may form on roofs. When snow melts, runs down a roof, collects at the edge, and then refreezes, it creates an ice dam. Although not an early spring issue, it is still something to consider.

Insufficient Sealing at Roof Valleys – The v-shaped valley that is created when two roof slopes meet is a common place for water to pool. For this reason, proper sealing is vital to prevent water penetration. If this sealing is insufficient or wears down, a leak can occur.

Natural Wear and Tear – Natural wear and tear is every exteriors enemy. Overtime, roofs will incur several types of wear and tear, such as the loss of the protective granules on your shingles. This and more can lead to roof leaks.

Local Indianapolis General Contractors You Can Trust

Call Restoration By L & B, LLC at 317-454-3612 for professional rubber roofing repair and siding work in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner and general contractor, Lee Elliot, is happy to answer all your questions about home remodel planning, prices, and process. And don’t forget; we guarantee to BEAT any prices quoted by our competition! Request a written estimate, today.

Home Remodeling Contractors 317-454-3612
Home Remodeling Contractors 317-454-3612

The Benefits You Get From Rubber Roofs

Flat and low-pitched roofing systems are not always the best candidates for conventional asphalt shingles. Fortunately, the roofing industry caught on to this disadvantage some time ago, and now offers a terrific alternative for homeowners in need of a long-lasting, dependable roof system! Of course we are talking about rubber roofing!

Continue reading to learn more about the various benefits of rubber roofing, and how you can find a rubber roofing contractor near you.

Indianapolis Rubber Roof Contractors 317-454-3612
Indianapolis Rubber Roof Contractors 317-454-3612

What is Rubber Roofing?

Rubber roofing is a modern, innovative solution for a long-lasting and durable roofing system for homes and structures that have flat or low-pitched roofs. Flat roofs have a slope below 10 degrees, while low-pitched roofs have a slope that is nearly level, but still slightly pitched. Roof pitch refers to the slant, angle, and slope of a roof.

Since flat roofs have special requirements, namely in terms of drainage and waterproofing, it is important to use a quality material that is effective against these elements of roofing engineering and more. Rubber roofing is the perfect solution for homes with flat and low-pitched roofs because it provides a water-tight seal and is visually appealing, all at the same time.

Rubber roofing is referred to as EDPM roofing, which stands for ethylene propylene diene terpolymer. This material is a highly effective roofing option because it is waterproof, lightweight, quick and easy to install, highly durable, long-lasting, and inexpensive. Furthermore, rubber roofs are low maintenance and easy and inexpensive to repair.

Additional Benefits

A more tightly sealed and secure roof means less wasted heat and air, which cuts monthly energy costs little by little, each year. Rubber roofs are also energy efficient because the materials used in the process reflect sun and heat. This keeps a home cooler in warmer climates, and saves on energy costs. Aside from all of these delightful benefits, rubber roofs are great alternatives because they are fire-resistant and less likely to crack. Their durability allows them to withstand harsh weather conditions and changing climates, year after year.

Indianapolis Rubber Roofing Contractors

Call Restoration By L & B, LLC at 317-454-3612 for rubber roofing repair and installation in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our company uses a comprehensive inspection and measurement process that ensures we are well-prepared for the project at hand. From start to finish, we stay in constant communication with our clients to confirm they are well-informed of our time-lines and agendas. Licensed general contractor, Lee Elliot, is happy to take your call and answer your questions about roof repair, rubber roofing, and more.

Residential and Commercial Remodeling

Top 3 Reasons Why You Shouldn’t Hire a Roofer Who Subcontracts Work

Are you planning on having any type of roof repair or maintenance done soon? If so, it is wise to avoid roofing companies that subcontract their work. There are countless disadvantages to hiring such companies, from minor aggravating issues to major financial downfalls. However, the top three reasons why you should not hire a roofer who contracts out their duties have to do with accountability, uncertainty, and postponements.

Continue reading to learn how these three disadvantages can come into play when working with a roofer who commissions their roofing work.

Indianapolis Rubber Roofing Contractors
Indianapolis Rubber Roofing Contractors 317-454-3612

✅ Accountability

Insurance and workmanship liability are two vital factors in choosing any type of contractor to perform any type of work on your property. When it comes to roof work, this is especially important. A roofer who subcontracts work leaves you at risk of being liable for injuries or damages, as well as, any structural errors made on the job.

✅ Uncertainty

There is a vast degree of uncertainly involved on your end when a roofer subcontracts their work, so you don’t know what you are getting in terms of certification, skill, dependability, and liability. Although you did your research to find a roofer of your choice, you have no idea who is behind the work they subcontract.

✅ Postponements

Roofing contractors who outsource their work to other contractors are often known for project delays and postponements. A roof repair or replacement that is projected to take a few weeks can end up taking several months or more as a result of your roofer poorly coordinating and managing their selected subcontractors.

How to Find a Reliable Roofer

The fundamental attributes of any roofing contractor is licensing, insurance, and experience. These three aspects are among the most important because they indicate that the contractors are adept professionals who specialize in roofing service. Top insurance coverage is equally important so that homeowners are never liable for any accidents or injuries that may occur on the job. But aside from these baseline attributes, finding a quality roofing contractor requires that you look for more. See out blog, “Tips for Hiring a Reputable Roofer” for a great place to get started.

Local Rubber Roofing Contractors You Can Trust

Call Restoration By L & B, LLC at 317-454-3612 for professional rubber roofing installation and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner and general contractor, Lee Elliot, is happy to answer all your questions about home remodel planning, prices, and process. And don’t forget; we guarantee to BEAT any prices quoted by our competition! Request a written estimate, today.

Residential and Commercial Remodeling

How to Decide Between a Nail and a Screw

When it comes to home renovations and handyman projects involving wood, nails and screws are staple supplies to have on hand. But how do you know which one to use and when? Although the debate is ongoing, there are some facts and considerations that can help you decide which fastener is best for your particular home improvement application.

Continue reading to learn a few pointers for choosing between a nail and a screw, as well as, what to do if you are stuck making progress on your home repair or project.

Indianapolis Handyman 317-454-3612
Indianapolis Handyman 317-454-3612

Nails or Screws?

The truth is, both nails and screws are excellent fasteners for wood so they can usually be incorporated interchangeably. So long as you size your unit correctly and install it properly, you should have success with either one. Ultimately, the unit you choose to use on your particular application depends on personal preference and availability of tools and supplies.

First, consider how strong and lasting you need the connection to be. Screws are stronger by nature of installation, and therefore, are good choices for heavy or large items, such as drywall. Nails are slimmer, but come in very long size variations, making them good choices for aesthetic applications, thinner materials, and lightweight items like picture frames.

Next, think about the tools you have on hand. You want to match the type of screw or nail with the proper tool. If you only have a hammer, you may want to stick with nails, but if you have a power drill or screw driver, you can choose screws. Likewise, if you only have a Philips Head screw driver, you would need to use Philips screws. Phillips screws deliver a tighter fit compared to flat head screws, making them more popular among factories and handymen.

Third, take into consideration the size and shape of your wooden building materials. Screws tend to have more tensile strength, while nails have shear strength. Nails, although can bend under pressure, are quite strong and rarely snap. Screws are more brittle, but they connect wooden boards together, tighter and stronger. Screws also work better with wood’s natural structural propensity to expand and contract.

Common Nail Applications:

▻ Roof and Wall Framing
▻ Plywood Sheathing
▻ Hardwood Floors
▻ Siding/Roofing
▻ Interior Moldings
▻ Solid-Wood Edgings for Plywood Shelves
▻ Stiles and Rails for Cabinets
And anywhere else you don’t want to damage wood with a screw.

Common Screw Applications:

▻ Drywall Hanging
▻ Wood Deck Fastening
▻ Cabinet Installation
▻ Wooden Toys
▻ Bookcases
And any other wooden connection that you wish to take apart.

Stuck on a Home Renovation Project?

Call Restoration By L & B, LLC at 317-454-3612 for affordable residential remodeling services in Central Indiana and its surrounding areas. Our Indianapolis general contractors provide a wide range of services for both commercial and residential properties, from general handyman services and home remodels, to full-on renovations, additions, conversions, and more. Request an estimate, today!

Why Choose Rubber Roofing for Your Home Remodel?

Rubber roofing materials are a wonderful alternative to using standard shingles for flat and low-sloping roof systems. Even though traditional roof shingles can last anywhere from 15 to 50 years, they are typically made from materials like asphalt, ceramic, tile, metal, slate, and more; and these materials are not always satisfactory enough to provide long-term defense and an impenetrable seal against water leaks.

They also require continual maintenance and upkeep, which can be costly and time-consuming. For this reason, and several others, roofing manufacturers have developed a new kind of material called rubber roofing, which is quickly gaining popularity as a go-to solution for simpler roof repair and maintenance.

Continue reading to learn more about rubber roofing and its many advantages for residential and commercial properties.  

Indianapolis Rubber Roof Contractors 317-454-3612
Indianapolis Rubber Roof Contractors 317-454-3612

Materials and Measurements

Rubber roofs are made from PVC plastic polymers or rubber polymers. Single-ply synthetic roofing is another term commonly used for this as well. Since these shingles can replicate slate or asphalt shingles in appearance, and can be easily installed over existing roofing. Roofing material is usually always measured by the square, which means 100 square feet. For example, 4 squares of roofing material equals 400 square feet. They typically come in rolls for flat roofs, and shingles for custom projects and repairs.

Overall Cost and Installation

You can expect rubber roof material to cost anywhere from $300 to $400 per square, so 4 squares of rubber roofing can add up to $1,600 or more, not including labor and supplies. Although initially costly, rubber rooftops can last a homeowner twice as long as traditional shingles and won’t need as much routine maintenance and repair. There are several more benefits to rubber rooftop installation as well!

Rubber shingles or flat rolls can be installed over existing rooftops, making the typically dreaded roof repair project much less complicated and time-consuming. Existing roof shingles are sprayed with a roofing foam to provide a fresh surface and added installation. Then a water-proof membrane is applied to the entire surface before the rubber materials are installed. The simplicity of rubber-roof installation reduces labor and time, which cuts costs.

Notable Benefits

A more tightly sealed and secure roof means less wasted heat and air, which cuts monthly energy costs little by little, each year. Rubber roofs are also energy efficient because the materials used in the process reflect sun and heat. This keeps a home cooler in warmer climates, and saves on energy costs. Aside from all of these delightful benefits, rubber roofs are great alternatives because they are fire-resistant and less likely to crack. Their durability allows them to withstand harsh weather conditions and changing climates, year after year.

Indianapolis Rubber Roofing Contractors

Residential and Commercial Remodeling 317-454-3612

Call Restoration By L & B, LLC at 317-454-3612 for professional rubber roofing installation and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner and general contractor, Lee Elliot, is happy to answer all your questions about home remodel planning, prices, and process. And don’t forget; we guarantee to BEAT any prices quoted by our competition! Request a written estimate, today.

Install Rubber Roofing Before Winter Weather is Here

If you are planning to replace the roof on your property, you may want to consider rubber roofing. There are numerous advantages to rubber roofing, many of which are most helpful during seasons of inclement weather and increased precipitation. This means right now is the perfect time to install new roofing before the harsh winter weather is upon us and home remodeling projects are forced to be put on hold. Continue reading to more about rubber roofing and the many benefits it offers residential and commercial properties.

Rubber Roofing Contractors 317-454-3612

Rubber Roofing Contractors 317-454-3612

Rubber Roofs

Rubber roofing is 100% eco-friendly because it is made from recycled materials. These materials generally include recycled tires, saw dust, and slate dust. It is tremendously durable and can withstand harsh weather conditions and drastic temperature changes over a long period of time. In fact, rubber roofing is manufactured to last between 30 to 50 years with little needed maintenance; while standard roof shingles only last up to 20 years at the most, and require exhausting maintenance on a regular basis. Some rubber roofing manufacturers are so sure of their product’s dependability that they offer lifetime warranties!

Rubber roofing is fire resistant, as well as, highly resistant to water leaks, cracks, ruptures, sun fading, sun damage, drafts, air leaks, and more. It is a high quality roofing material that offers so many options and advantages for all property types. Rubber roofing comes in a variety of shapes, colors, textures, and styles. It comes in seamless rolls for flat roofs, and shingles for all other roofs. Rubber roofs can also be customized in terms of style, color, and design. There are endless options that allow property owners to express their individual style. And installation is much easier and quicker than standard roof replacement! It is more expensive to purchase in comparison to standard shingles, but it pays for itself in the long run, making it worth the initial investment.

It is important to hire a professional general contractor or roofing company for accurate and reliable rubber roofing information, sales, and installation. Although installation is quick and easy, it must be performed by professionals that retain the proper tools, equipment, and training. By choosing a professional roofing contractor for rubber roofing installation, you can rest assure that our property is in good hands. Be sure the service you choose is licensed, experienced, and insured in case of liability issues or incidents. This not only protects you, it protects your assets as well.

Indianapolis Rubber Roofing Installation

Home Repair Service 317-454-3612

Residential and Commercial Remodeling
317-454-3612

Call Restoration By L & B, LLC at 317-454-3612 for rubber roofing installation in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our company uses a comprehensive inspection and measurement process that ensures we are well-prepared for the project at hand. From start to finish, we stay in constant communication with our clients to confirm they are well-informed of our time-lines and agendas. Licensed general contractor, Lee Elliot, is happy to take your call and answer your questions about roof repair, rubber roofing, and more. Call 317-454-3612 for information
about rubber roofing installation, today.

Three Reasons Why SPF Roofing is a Disappointment

Rubber Roofing 317-454-3612

Rubber Roofing 317-454-3612

Many thermal roofing enthusiasts, manufacturers, and resellers will argue that sprayed polyurethane foam roofs are a misunderstood and beneficial commodity. They will insist that SPF roofing materials are safe, long-lasting, and require very little maintenance. In some cases, this could absolutely be true, so long as all the variables and external conditions are just right; but when does that ever really happen? In real life, properties need real solutions for roof installation, protection, and repair. Although SPF roofing is widely recognized and esteemed for its low-cost and quick installation qualities, keep in mind that cheaper and faster does not always mean better, especially in the long-run.

Continue reading to learn the truth about sprayed polyurethane foam roofing and suggestions for trusted roofing alternatives that work for everyone.

SPF Roofing Disadvantages

There are three principle parts involved in SPF roof application: the roof deck or substrate, the layer of sprayed polyurethane foam, and the top coat. When it comes to low-slope roofs, many experts do not recommend SPF roofing for the following reasons, and more:

Poor Drainage and Insulation

SPF roofing is applied by hand, so it is not easy to do. It takes years of practice to learn how to apply it uniformly. For this reason, many SPF applications are not evenly administered, leading to insufficient insulation, uneven layers, and water-collecting trenches. Poor insulation is a catalyst for several other home and property issues, mainly involving excessive energy consumption and increased utility bills. And a low-slope roof that cannot drain properly is a big problem to have as well. Water accumulation on roofs causes several structural damages and long-term wear and tear.

Safety Concern

The application and installation process of sprayed polyurethane foam roofing releases several fumes into the atmosphere, including its main ingredient, isocyanate. These chemicals implicate the well-being of humans, pets, wildlife, and the surrounding Eco-system. Because of this potential threat, strict OHSHA guidelines must be followed during the application process.

Time Restriction

Although SPF roofing is known for its quick installation times, there is only a limited time-frame in which the application process can proceed. Weather conditions have to be just right for the project to take place, like on a day that’s dry, warm, and no wind. This is because of the strict and stringent installation specifications that must be followed by all contractors and roofers. This type of roofing material can only be sprayed when the humidity and climate permits. Not only can moisture cause the foam to not adhere properly, high levels of heat or humidity can cause a blistering-effect in the surface if the roof.

A fantastic alternative to SPF roofing is rubber roofing. There are several benefits of rubber roofs for both commercial and residential properties. Ask your local roofer for advice about rubber roofing services and products.

Restoration By L & B, LLC

General Contractors Indianapolis Indiana 317-454-3612

General Contractors Indianapolis Indiana 317-454-3612

Call Restoration By L & B, LLC at 317-454-3612 to learn about rubber roofs in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner, Lee Elliot, is happy to answer your questions about rubber roof installation services and more, any time. Call 317-454-3612 and speak with our Indianapolis rubber roofing contractors about rubber roof installation and repair, today.