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3-Tab vs Architectural: How to Choose the Best Shingle for Your Roof

by Frank Dixon | Mar 28, 2023 | Asphalt Shingle Roofing, Blog, New Roof, Portage

Your new roof should last for many years, so choosing the right materials is essential. The materials you purchase should meet your needs and expectations in terms of durability, warranty, cost, and aesthetics. Asphalt shingles in Portage have much to offer. They come in an array of colors, textures, and styles. They are also affordable, making them a cost-effective solution for countless homeowners across Portage, IN.

Before you make a buying choice, you may find it helpful to compare the advantages of 3-tab shingles versus architectural shingles. Both are varieties of asphalt shingles, and each type provides different benefits.

Aesthetics

These two types of asphalt shingles also differ in their appearance. 3-tab shingles are flat, and they have a single tab shape and size. They are uniform, which gives them a flat look.

Architectural shingles are also referred to as dimensional shingles. This is because they provide a more dimensional look to the roof. Each shingle appears more dimensional because it is; multiple layers of materials adhere to the base. These shingles can be made to resemble cedar shakes, which may add much to a home’s curb appeal. They can also be constructed to simulate the look of slate, but without the added weight that slate would bring to a roof.

Cost

The overall cost of both types of shingles is relative. Although 3-tab shingles may be less expensive to install, they usually need to be repaired and replaced sooner than architectural shingles.

Lifespan

Because of their durability and high-quality composition, architectural shingles generally have a longer lifespan than the 3-tab variety. They stand up better to weather conditions such as heat, snow, ice, rain, and strong winds. Their average lifespan is about 18 to 20 years. However, they may last up to 30 years under optimal conditions. When 3-tab shingles are exposed regularly to severe weather, they may last about 7 to 10 years. In areas with mild climates, they may last as long as 12 to 15 years.

Physical Composition

Because 3-tab shingles and architectural shingles are both asphalt shingles, they are similar in composition. They are both made with asphalt and adhesives, as well as granules for the outermost layer and fiberglass for the backing.

The primary differences between the two are the amount of material used, as well as the overall quality of each product. Architectural shingles are about 50 percent heavier and more substantial than 3-tab shingles. The base mat on an architectural shingle is thicker than that on a 3-tab shingle, making the architectural shingle a sturdier roofing material. Architectural shingles also comprise stronger adhesives, and they have more granules on their top surface. They are also made from asphalt of a finer quality than 3-tab shingles.

Warranty

The warranties that come with these shingles are reflective of their overall value. Since 3-tab shingles have a shorter lifespan, they have shorter warranties. 3-tab shingles generally have warranties of 25 to 30 years. Architectural shingles typically come with warranties of 50 years, and some of them may even have lifetime warranties.

Wind Ratings

The two shingle types yield different wind resistance ratings. While there may be some subtle variations, 3-tab shingles are generally rated for winds of up to approximately 60 miles per hour (mph). Since architectural shingles are thicker and of higher quality, it makes sense that they have higher wind ratings than 3-tab shingles. They typically are rated for winds of between 80 mph and 120 mph.

Finding the Right Match for Your Home

The suitability of each of these shingle varieties is also relative. 3-tab shingles are more economical in the short term, so they may be ideal for rental properties and budget homes. Architectural shingles may be a better choice for high-end homes, as well as for homeowners who value aesthetics and longevity over lower initial costs.

The team at Alamo Roofing Contractors can help you determine which asphalt shingles might work best for you. Don’t hesitate to give us a call. You’re also welcome to contact us online for further details.

Maintaining Your Roof: How to Prepare for Spring Weather in Northwest Indiana

by Frank Dixon | Mar 14, 2023 | Blog, Northwest Indiana, Portage, Roof Damage, Roof maintenance, Roof Repair

Spring is finally here in Northwestern Indiana, and as you start the process of spring cleaning and beautifying your yard, you should take time to check how your roof handled the winter. Winter months can be hard on your home and if your roof has endured any type of damage it could lead to even greater problems in the spring. Now is the perfect time to make sure your home is ready for a beautiful spring. There are things that you, as a homeowner, can do to ensure your roof is prepared for the spring and summer storms ahead.

Check And Clean Gutters

It’s important to maintain clean and clear gutters in your home. Clear out any debris that has gathered in them over the winter months. You should also check the walls around your gutters and under the eaves for water stains or spots. This could be a sign that your gutters are not allowing water to flow freely to the ground.

Check Your Attic

Scanning the attic is an easy task you can do on your own. Inspect the underside of the roof deck and rafters in your attic for water stains, black marks, or mold, and check the insulation in your attic for mildew. Finding mold or mildew could indicate that your roof has a leak.

Trim Your Trees

Spring is a good time to inspect the trees around your house for branches that are weak or broken. Any limbs that are at risk of falling onto your roof should be removed to avoid damage to your roof. Now that you’ve done this, you could also consider contacting a professional roofing contractor for a thorough inspection. For safety reasons, it’s not recommended that a homeowner gets on the roof. Leave that to the professionals. When your roofing contractor arrives, they are going to. (You might want to know the cost for tree removal.)

Examine The Shingles

Inspect your roof for shingles that look loose, cracked, curling, or missing. Depending on what they find, you might need to have some work done. It is best to let a qualified roofer make any repairs to prevent costly damage or even more extensive repairs in the future.

Look For Signs Of Water Damage

Roofs are vulnerable to ice dams during the winter. Some of the damages may be visible and at other times they could be difficult to spot. This is why having a professional inspect your roof once or twice a year is incredibly important. It’s possible you wouldn’t find any concerning signs but the substrate layer of the roof or the roofing deck may have significant damage. Ice dams can lead to rotting of the underlayment, it can also damage the insulation. Any of these issues can cause potential leaks that would cause havoc during rain.

For your peace of mind and to avoid possible expensive future maintenance issues, calling an experienced roofer to perform a full roof inspection and maintenance is a good idea. If your roof is damaged by mother nature, take a look at your homeowner’s insurance policy, some policies may cover the costs of repair. Contact Alamo Roofing Contractors today to help put a spring in your roof’s step!

New Year, New Roof: Why a New Roof is Just What You Need in 2023

by Frank Dixon | Jan 11, 2023 | Blog, Portage, Roof Repair

As the calendar turns to the beginning of a new year, the plan for upgrading and creating new projects becomes a line item on the to-do list. One of those new and exciting projects may be an updated roofing system. How do you know if this should be included in the new year? Let’s review some signs that it may be time for a new roof!

Leaks

Are you noticing discolored spots on your ceilings? Stains on the walls of your attic? This could be an indication of a damaged roof. Perhaps the underlayment and sealants are failing to do their intended jobs and will need replacing.

Missing Shingles

If you have noticed missing or buckling shingles, the repair could be easily fixed. However, if the area is too large, or the shingles have become old, then a new roof should be installed.

Uneven Roofline

This could be an indication of a deeper problem. When the supports no longer are strong enough to carry the weight of the roof, they bend, buckle and break causing the roofline to be jagged. Perhaps rot has taken over and the damage is extensive. Have an inspection done to review what the problems are and the best way to bring a roof back to life.

Bare Shingles

Asphalt shingles are created by ceramic-coated mineral granules applied to a base mat. When the shingles age or are destroyed by fierce winds, the granules no longer adhere to the mat and become bare. This shows signs of future complications. These shingles have come to the end of their lifecycle and a new roof should be considered.

Rust on a Metal Roof

Do you have a metal roofing system? Make sure you keep an eye out for areas of rust or damaged fasteners. This can create huge areas of damage if not addressed properly.

Age

How old is your roofing system? Asphalt roofs can last approximately 20 years, while metal can last closer to 50 years. Tile and slate roofs last closer to 100 years when properly installed and maintained. You may want to consider replacing your roof if the current system is near the end of its life span.

Holey Attic

Are you able to look up through your attic and see daylight? This means you have a large number of leaks and the insulation has deteriorated. After a new roof is installed, your electric bills should diminish and the comfort of your home increase. Not to mention, the peace of mind a secure solid roof can provide.

Take the time to seriously consider the condition of your current roofing system. Contact a trusted local roofing contractor to assess any damage and learn if a new roof should be considered.

Alamo Roofing Contractors in Portage are available to meet and discuss your roofing problems and concerns. We strive to listen carefully and find a reasonable solution to a failing roofing system. It is important to secure your family and possessions with a solid secure roofing system.

We provide every customer with sincere outstanding customer service and we treat each home with the care it deserves. Give us a call today to see how we can help improve your home!

What is the Best Siding for My Home in Portage?

by Frank Dixon | Oct 16, 2022 | Blog, Portage, Siding

There are nearly limitless options when it comes to choosing new siding for your home. Between material types, colors, designs, and warranties it can get overwhelming, especially if you’re dealing with siding for the first time! Below you’ll find information on all the siding types we offer to help you figure out what’s right for your Portage home.

Portage Siding Options

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Vinyl Siding

If you’re looking for a low-cost, low-maintenance siding option, vinyl is the cheapest and easiest material to work with. Once installed, you won’t have to deal with maintenance again until you’re ready for a new look. Cleaning vinyl is as simple as washing away dirt and grime with just a bit of water, and you won’t have to worry about rust or decay. Plus, vinyl siding is so versatile, coming in various colors and textures, that it can give you any style your heart desires.

Vinyl siding is an affordable material that not only saves money during the easy installation process but also requires little to no maintenance. It’s lightweight, cost-effective, and easy to ship while having the ability to be installed right on top of your current siding. Because vinyl is human-made material, you can pick and choose precisely what you want your home’s siding to look like. Vinyl siding can emulate wood, stucco, brick, and stone in virtually any color under the sun. Similarly, you can easily have it cut into the exact sizes you want, whether you’re going for long planks or small squares. You’ll be able to fully customize the siding on your house when you choose vinyl siding.

Hardie Board Siding

Hardie board has emerged as a popular form of siding in Portage. Its ability to resemble almost any type of material means you won’t have to worry about being restricted when it comes to designing the exterior of your home. Hardie board’s versatility provides homeowners with plenty of unique advantages. You can customize the Hardie board to resemble a wide variety of materials. Whether you want a wood, stone, or synthetic appearance, Hardie board can deliver. This siding is an excellent choice if you want the appearance of a particular material without the burden of sourcing a natural product.

Hardie board siding is also extremely fire and weather-resistant. While this will depend on the type of Hardie board that you choose, it’s an excellent feature that can help you keep your family safe. Many building materials have the unfortunate characteristic of being prone to house fires — Hardie board is an excellent alternative. While many people invest in siding that must be replaced every 10 to 15 years, Hardie board allows you to keep your siding for the lifetime of your home. This is a great way to save money. Also, using building materials that last longer than a decade is an excellent way to stay environmentally responsible.

best Portage, Indiana LP smartsidel siding installation company

LP Smartside

LP SmartSide is a low-cost, low-maintenance siding option that looks just as good as real wood. Installing LP SmartSide not only gives new life to the outside of your home but also protects its contents. LP SmartSide looks like wood but is an engineered combination of wood fibers and resin. It can be cut into any shape and size and comes in several more varieties than natural wood. Our customers love its versatility and customizability, so you’re bound to find the siding style that you desire. When you use LP SmartSide siding, you’re choosing beautiful and cost-effective. Not only are the materials themselves far cheaper than their real wood counterpart, but LP SmartSide installation also takes less time and therefore less money to complete.

While LP SmartSide looks like real wood, it never runs the risk of being infested with termites or carpenter ants and never runs the risk of decay or water damage. It’s designed to endure harsh weather conditions and is completely waterproof, protecting your home from harsh elements. Contrary to real wood, LP SmartSide siding comes in a wide variety of colors, textures, and styles. The sky is the limit in terms of what you can choose.

Give the trusted Portage roofing company Alamo Roofing Contractors a call to get your personalized quote today and find out what siding option is right for you.

How Much Will a New Asphalt Shingle Roof Cost in Portage?

by Frank Dixon | Sep 5, 2022 | Asphalt Shingle Roofing, Blog, Portage

You can expect to pay between $4000 and $10,000 for an asphalt shingle roofing replacement in Portage. On average, asphalt shingles in Portage cost $4 to $5.50 per square foot. The total cost of your asphalt roofing replacement project depends on the size of your home, the type of asphalt shingles you install, and the labor costs of your trusted Portage roofing company.

If you’re looking for exceptional asphalt shingle roofing services for your Portage home, give Alamo Roofing Contractors a call today.

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The Cost Of Asphalt Shingle Roofing In Portage

Asphalt shingle rooftops have a lifespan of about 15 to 30 years. How long they last are mainly dependent on the type of shingles you choose to install, how accurately they were installed, the quality of your maintenance plan, and the environment in which you live.

If your asphalt roofing system has reached the end of its life, this is how much you can expect to pay:

3-Tab Shingles

A 3-tab shingle rooftop costs about $4000 to $15,000. You can expect to pay $4 to $4.50 per square foot.

1,000 sf. roof / 10 squares = $4000 to $4,500
1,500 sf .roof / 15 squares = $6,500 to $6,750
2,000 sf. roof / 20 squares = $8000 to $9000
2,500 sf. roof / 25 squares = $10,000 to $11,250
3,000 sf. roof / 30 squares = $12,000 to $13,500
3,500 sf. roof / 35 squares = $14,000 to $15,750

Architectural Shingles

An architectural shingle rooftop costs about $5000 to $19,000. You can expect to pay $5 to $5.50 per square foot.

1,000 sf. roof / 10 squares = $5000 to $5,500
1,500 sf. roof / 15 squares = $7,500 to $8,250
2,000 sf. roof / 20 squares = $10,000 to $11,000
2,500 sf. roof / 25 squares = $12,500 to 13,750
3,000 sf. roof / 30 squares = $15,000 to $16,500
3,500 sf. roof / 35 squares = $17,500 to $19,250

Request a quote here (link) to receive a more accurate estimate for your asphalt shingle roof installation.

Here you’ll find some details on the types of asphalt shingles that you can install on your rooftop:

Three-tab Asphalt Shingles

These lightweight and energy-efficient shingles are the most common and easy to maintain and are named for the cutout form that gives them a distinct three-piece look. With proper care, three-tab shingles can last up to 20 years.

Architectural Asphalt Shingles

For the longest-lasting shingles, and for the home where curb appeal matters most, architectural shingles are a great choice. With a wider range of color options, dimension-adding laminated styles, and reflective versions to reduce summer cooling costs, you can enjoy the look and feel of these shingles for up to 50 years.

Luxury Asphalt Shingles

For those who value both style and cost, luxury shingles are a worthwhile investment. Cost-effective premium versions of asphalt shingle roofing, the luxury style is designed to emulate high-end cedar or slate roofing with the benefit of costing only 1/10th of the cost of cedar shingles.

trusted Portage, IN asphalt shingle roof replacement and repair

The Pros and Cons of A New Asphalt Shingle Roof

We understand that the roof you choose for your home or business is an important decision. Below you’ll find some points to consider to inform your choice better.

Pros of Asphalt Shingles

Affordability: Asphalt is the go-to answer for homeowners on a budget. With proper installation and maintenance, a quality roof doesn’t have to break the bank, especially with our financing options.
Color Variety: From neutrals to statement colors, there are a variety of options to choose from. Based on your budget, you can even choose asphalt shingle roofing that emulates wood or slate.
Simple Installation: Asphalt shingle roof repair is simple and the most cost-effective. Should the job require it, new shingles can be installed on top of existing shingles with little difficulty. Asphalt shingles last a lifespan of up to 20 years with proper maintenance.

Cons of Asphalt Shingles

Not Environmentally Friendly: Asphalt shingles are non-recyclable, due largely to the harmful emissions they release. As the shortest roof lifespan, asphalt shingles contribute a lot of waste.
Susceptible to Weather: Wide-ranging temperatures and extreme weather conditions can cause cracks and warping of some asphalt shingle types.

Have questions about whether or not an asphalt shingle roof is right for your home? Are you ready to start your Great Falls home’s new asphalt shingle roof installation? Don’t delay, give Alamo Roofing Contractors a call today!

Seamless Gutter Installation Cost in Portage

by Frank Dixon | Aug 16, 2022 | Blog, Gutters, Portage, Seamless

If you need new seamless gutters, you may be afraid to ask how much this home improvement project will cost. But knowing the average price homeowners pay for professionally installed seamless gutters can help you prepare once the time is right to install your new gutter system.

Seamless gutter pricing extremes range from $172.00 to $268.00. This translates to an average of $3.00 – $5.00 per foot of material. Keep in mind that this does not always take into account the cost of installation and labor or various project costs, so please speak to your roofing company of choice to get a clearer picture when getting an estimate.

Other Factors That Affect the Cost of Seamless Gutters

Think of the gutters on your home as a small-scale version of the Roman aqueducts: Gutters take water from one place (the roof) and channel it to a much more useful place: away from the house or in a rain barrel. Seamless gutters are a relatively inexpensive way to prevent major damage to your home and can be a stylish addition to your home’s façade. They also come in different styles (half-round and K-style) and are available in a plethora of different colors.

Image via barrybest.com

Gutter Materials

Seamless gutters are most commonly made from aluminum but are sometimes made from galvanized steel or copper as well. Vinyl seamless gutters are much less common. The gutter material you choose will affect your total cost more than the length of guttering your project requires, so choose wisely.

Other Considerations

As with any home improvement project, there are often additional pricing considerations. Aluminum gutters account for a large majority of all seamless gutters, but vinyl, galvanized steel, and copper are two other options. You should also ask if options such as gutter guards and gutter cleaning services are available where you live. A well-maintained gutter system can serve your home dutifully for years.

FAQ for Seamless Gutters in Portage

What are the main advantages of seamless gutters?

Seamless gutters are much more aesthetically pleasing than other kinds. If you want gutters that work well and look good on your house, seamless gutters are definitely worth taking a close look at. These days a lot of homeowners in Portage have started to get seamless gutters installed because they work very effectively to reroute rainwater away from the foundation of their homes.

Are seamless gutters expensive?

The cost of seamless gutters varies depending on the material they are made of. Despite what people may think, seamless gutters don’t cost any more than regular gutters, and they look a lot better. If you want seamless rain gutters on your home that will blend in perfectly with the edge of your roof, seamless gutters are definitely worth taking a close look at. It is very important to at least explore this option, especially if you need new gutters on your roof.

Can professionals install my new seamless gutters?

You can and should hire professionals to install seamless gutters around your roof, simply because doing so will guarantee that the job gets done properly. Attempting to install these gutters on your own can be dangerous, so you will want to leave this work up to the local Portage professionals. Alamo Roofing Contractors will be able to ensure that your new seamless gutters are installed properly so there aren’t any problems with them. There are many benefits associated with getting seamless gutters installed on your home, so you will want to carefully consider this option before making a decision.

trusted Portage, Indiana seamless gutter installation services

Have questions about whether or not seamless gutters are right for your home? Are you ready to start your Portage home’s seamless gutter installation? Don’t delay, give Alamo Roofing Contractors a call today!

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