Orange County

Thinking of ways to save money in 2015? One excellent option could be going solar. According to multiple sources, California is one of the least expensive places in the country to install solar panels. With government incentives, it's possible to spend as little as ten to fifteen thousand dollars on some residential solar systems. Often, solar energy systems can save 50 - 90% of your electricity bill in California homes and the return on investment is quicker than it's ever historically been.

So there's many obvious reasons for installing solar - saving money and helping the environment - but what makes 2015 a great time to install solar panels on the roof of your home or business?

Home solar power is easier to install than ever. And with Orange County solar panel installers, you can work with a local business to set your own home or business up with money-saving solar power.

SELECT ShingleMaster^TM Orange County Roofing Contractors

When you’re looking for Orange County roofing contractors for your roof repair or replacement, do you know what to look for? One obvious place to begin is with licensing information. You definitely need to ensure that the contractor you hire is licensed in the State of California.

While licensed professionals have a certain level of expertise and experience, not all professionals are excellent at what they do. So how do you find the best contractors out there, who can offer excellent products, excellent service, and excellent guarantees?

One option is to look at third party certifications, such as those offered by renowned roofing products company CertainTeed. This company offers extra certifications to businesses who sell its products - which are known for their high quality and great warranties. So if you’re looking for a roofing contractor in Orange County, check to see if they have additional CertainTeed certifications.

The Best Orange County Roofing Company is State Licensed

These days, it’s easier than ever for SoCal individuals and companies to find a roofing company. A quick Google search turns up literally hundreds of options in the area. So the problem isn’t just finding someone to fix your roof. The problem is ensuring that you’re using the best Orange County roofing company for your needs.

Obviously, there’s plenty to think about when it comes to shopping for a roofing contractor. But one of the top requirements on your list should be that your contractor is licensed with the State of California.

In fact, any company that doesn’t provide potential customers with a current, verifiable license number isn’t worth your time. Here’s why:

Orange County Roofing Company

Want to resolve something besides “lose weight” and “pay off debt” this New Year? In 2015, make some New Year’s Resolutions for your roof. These five resolutions can save you money in the long run by keeping your roof in great condition. Here are five resolutions SoCal residents should make about their roofs:

1. Install a clay tile roof

 There’s a reason clay tile roofs are ubiquitous in the Southern California area: they’re incredibly energy efficient. The curve of the clay tiles creates a space for air between the tile and the roof. This air space creates a natural thermal barrier, so that less heat transfers from the roof tiles to the inside of the home. 

When less heat transfers into your home, it makes your home easier and more affordable to cool. So check with your local Orange County roofing company to get a quote for installing a clay tile roof in 2015.

There’s a reason that clay tile roofs are some of the most popular options here in Southern California: they’re very energy efficient. These roofs are energy-efficient in both cold and warm climates, but they’re particularly well-suited to the hot SoCal air. Here’s why you might want to talk to a roofing company in Orange County about this roofing option:

Extra air makes for a cooler roof

The main reason that tile roof of any sort is cooler for your home or business is that it traps air. The curved tiles don’t sit right on the roofing underlayment. This means that air gets caught in between. And air is a surprisingly good insulator. It keeps heat from conducting from the tiles themselves to the interior of your home, which keeps the roof cooler.

Opt for cooler colors

While traditional tile roofs are red, they don’t all come in that color these days. Today, you can get clay or concrete tiles in a variety of colors, including cooler colors. These cooler colors - like light gray or even white - reflect the sun’s rays.

When it comes to your commercial building, the roof is one of the most expensive - and most essential - pieces. A leaky roof can mean serious damage to other systems in your commercial building. This is why it’s essential to hire professionals for commercial roof repair.

What if you have a maintenance person or even an entire crew in your building? Shouldn’t you just let them do the repairs?

Well, that depends. If your maintenance workers have experience in commercial roofing, they may be able to do the repairs themselves. But if this isn’t the case, hiring a professional Orange County roofing contractor can actually save you money in the long run. Here’s why:

Inexperience can lead to mistakes

Even if your maintenance crew has a bit of experience installing and maintaining roofs, they may not have all the experience necessary to truly do the job right. Mistakes with commercial roof repair can lead to larger consequences down the road - like leaks that cause problems with other systems.

Even simple mistakes like using the wrong equipment to get onto the rooftop can cause damage to your gutters or to the roof itself. Even walking on the roof incorrectly can cause problems that you have to pay to fix down the road. Then, you’ll find yourself shelling out more cash to fix those problems, snowballing the costs of the roof repair.

How often should you maintain your commercial roof?

Roofs are one of those things that we tend to think about only when they malfunction. As long as the roof is doing its job - protecting your building - you may not give it much thought. But as soon as a problem arises and the roof is no longer working properly, it’s an emergency situation!

One way to avoid these emergencies is obviously to maintain your commercial roof on a regular basis. Commercial roof maintenance may not be the most exciting thing on your business’s to-do list, but it’s important. After all, your roof protects the rest of your building, which protects your business’s assets from weather and other problems.

So commercial roof maintenance from an Orange County roofing contractor is actually pretty important. But how often should you pay someone to inspect your roof and do routine maintenance? Well, industry standards suggest that twice-a-year inspections are ideal, especially for commercial roofs.

Replacing a roof isn’t cheap. That’s why it’s important to repair your roof - rather than replacing it - whenever possible. Unless the shingles or tiles on your roof are completely worn out, repairs are able to fix many issues you might be having - including leaking. Orange County roof repair often addresses a group of very common problems. Here are some of the most common repairs that we do:

1. Damaged flashing.

Flashing is a piece of metal that adds extra protection to your roof’s extra vulnerable points. It’s found around skylights, around chimneys, and sometimes in the valleys of your roof where two surfaces meet. These areas are more prone to leaks, and are harder to get shingles and tiles into properly.

Are you preparing to re-roof your commercial or office building? A commercial roofing job can be quite similar to a residential one. But it can also be quite a bit more complex. The key to getting a great deal and good value on your new roof is to hire the right Orange County commercial roofers for the job.

Wondering exactly where to begin when it comes to hiring a commercial roofer? Here are our top X tips to get it done right:

1. Do your research

As with any major business purchase, you definitely need to start this one with plenty of research. Get online and start looking at what’s available in Orange County.

Don’t just look at contractors in the area, either. Do some research on the available materials and processes for your commercial roof. Just because your current roof uses certain materials doesn’t mean that you have to go with that same option this time around. Educate yourself a bit on what’s available for commercial roofs in your area.

If you’ve been experiencing leaks, or just know that your roof is in need of some TLC, you may be wondering how much the repairs will cost. Who doesn’t want to know the bottom line, right?

Unfortunately, it’s impossible to give an online estimate - even a ballpark - of how much it will cost to repair your roof. It’s easier to give a ballpark cost for roofing replacement, actually. At least then we know we’re starting from the studs up, and can give you a ballpark idea of the cost of replacement per square foot of roof.

But when it comes to roofing repairs in Orange County, there are just too many factors influencing the cost of your repairs to give you a solid idea of your actual costs. What we can do, though, is tell you a bit about the six major factors that will influence the cost of repairs for your roof. That way, you’ll be educated enough to know when you’re getting a great deal with an Orange County roofing contractor.

Here are the six main factors that influence the cost of roof repairs in Orange County:

Flat roofs can be a great option for businesses and homes alike. They’re more efficient and cheaper to build, and they can give you usable space on the roof of your home. But flat roofs can also require a bit more maintenance than their traditionally-sloped counterparts. It’s important when you have a flat roof to perform regular maintenance.

One key to maintaining a flat roof is regular inspection. Even if you don’t notice any leaks right now, inspect your roof at least twice per year. This will let you keep on top of potential problems, catching leaky spots before they even start.

If you already notice an issue with your roof - like a leak or an area where the roofing material is peeling or bubbling - it’s time to call in the professional Orange County roofing contractors. A professional contractor will know how to look for underlying issues, and will be able to tell you whether your roof needs replaced or can simply be repaired.

Tile roofs are some of the most popular options in Orange County, California - and for good reason! They’re long-lasting and incredibly energy-efficient in hotter climates. Plus, they’re a classic look with the area’s typical Spanish-inspired architecture. (But they also look great with more traditional types of architecture.)

Orange County roofing companies install many of these types of roofs each year. And the best roofing company will walk you through all your available options when it comes to a tile roof. While you’ve got many choices to make when it comes to your new tile roof - from style to color - the first and most basic choice is which type of tile you’ll use.

Tile roofs come in two basic options: concrete and clay. So what’s the difference between the two? Here’s an outline of the basic differences between these two types of tile roofs:

Cost

First, let’s look at the bottom line. Typically, clay tiles are more expensive than concrete. The average cost per square (100 square feet) for clay tiles is $700-$1,000. The average cost per square for concrete tiles is typically $400-$900 per square.

Of course, when comparing costs, it’s important to ask the Orange County roofing companies you’re vetting about the total costs of each type of roof. Also, ask which brands and types of tile they offer in each option. The goal should be to get an idea of overall costs - including installation - and not just costs for the raw materials.

One of the benefits of installing a tile roof on your home is that they’re virtually maintenance-free. But “virtually” maintenance-free doesn’t mean the same thing as totally maintenance-free. You still need to do some maintenance with your clay tile roof - or hire OC roofing companies to do it.

Luckily, maintaining a clay tile roof is relatively simple. Here are the steps you should take to keep yours in excellent shape:

1. Inspect regularly

First, make sure that you regularly inspect the clay tiles on your roof. This is especially true after a storm or strong wind. While clay is very durable and not likely to break, it does happen sometimes. And you definitely want to replace a broken tile as soon as possible, before more damage occurs.

If you do notice broken, slipped, missing, or chipped tiles, be sure that you call a qualified Orange County roofing company, like Luke Roofing, Inc. to fix the problem. Clay isn’t as simple for DIYers to fix as asphalt shingles.

2. Power wash

Like all roofs, you definitely need to be sure that you keep your clay tile roof clean. Dirty roofs invite all sorts of problems - from nesting critters to mold growth. So make sure that you regularly clean your roof, especially if it gets debris on it from nearby trees.

One of the easiest ways to clean your clay tile roof yourself is with a power washer. Power washing can be done in an afternoon. If tiles are growing algae, rinse them in a special roof rinse that will break down the algae without harming the environment around your home. Talk to OC roofing companies about how best to wash your roof.

Asphalt shingle roofing is one of the most popular options nationwide, and with good reason. It’s cheap, easy to maintain, and simple to repair. But this doesn’t mean you’ll get good results from your asphalt shingle roof - even the high-end kind with a warranty - by leaving it completely alone.

Proper roof maintenance will ensure that your roof lasts as long as possible. So whether your asphalt shingles are brand new or several years old, here are five tips for keeping them in top shape as long as possible:

1. Know your warranty.

This isn’t a maintenance tip, per se, but it’s still essential. The best Orange County roofing company will be up-front about any warranties for your new roof. Hang on to any paperwork surrounding your warranty, so you’ll have it in case a problem arises.

The best roofers in Orange County know a thing or two about clay tile roofs. After all, they’re some of the most popular roofs around this area. They fit right in to the Spanish-inspired feel of many Orange County homes. But clay tile roofs can work well with many other home styles, too, and they have tons of advantages.

Getting ready to replace your tile roof, or thinking of a switch to tile from another type of roofing material? Here are some of the most frequently asked questions the best roofers in Orange County are asked regularly:

1. Isn’t tile expensive?

Yes and no.

The answer to this question is yes because, on the front end, tile roofs are more expensive than their asphalt counterparts. Typically, concrete tiles cost about three times more than high-quality asphalt shingles, and clay tiles cost a bit more than that. This type of roofing is much less expensive than the increasingly-popular slate, however.

3 Telltale Signs that Your Roof Needs Replaced

Has it been a while since the roof on your home has been replaced? Do you think it’s time to replace your shingle or tile roof in Orange County? Here are 3 signs to look for that will let you know if your roof needs to be replaced:

1. Signs of water damage or leaking

If you don’t have an attic - or if you use your attic as living space - this one will be obvious. You’ll suddenly feel a drip or see water coming down the ceiling or into the walls. But if your only in your attic twice a year to take down and then put away your holiday decorations, you might need to check out that attic.

Hiring roofers in Orange County is a big deal for a homeowner. Getting your roof repaired or replaced can cost big money. And you want to be sure you’re spending your cash wisely and well. So before you sign a contract with a roofer, ask these 9 questions to be sure you’re hiring the right roofing company:

1. Are you licensed?Roofers in Orange County should be licensed by the state. A license doesn't guarantee excellent work, but working with an unlicensed contractor is sketchy, at best.

2. Are you a member of any roofing associations? Again, the fact that a roofing company is a member of a roofing association doesn't guarantee that they do good work. But those who are association members tend to be more up-to-date on the latest methods and products on the market. Association membership can prove that a roofing company is serious about its work.

Roof Repairs in Orange County

Most homeowners prefer to DIY fix at least some of their home repairs. After all, doing simple repairs yourself can save you lots of money. But when it comes to your roof, there are certain repairs you simply shouldn't attempt on your own. 

While you may be able to repair a small leak yourself, here are X common roof repairs in Orange County you should leave to the professionals:

1. Fixing faulty installation. If your roof was improperly installed in the first place, it’ll be more likely to leak. And the lifespan of your roof could decrease dramatically. Unfortunately, it can be difficult to tell if your roof was installed improperly, or if the problem is more localized. If you suspect your last roofing guys did a number on your roof, call a professional to assess and fix the problem.

Choose The Right Roofing Company

If you’re getting ready to drop a few grand on a new roof or roof repairs, you definitely need to be sure you’re choosing the right roofer. The wrong Orange County roofer can spell disaster for your home. Repairs that don’t hold up, fines from permits not pulled, or wildly off base estimates are just a few problems that might crop up.

So before you shell out cash for those Orange County roof repairs, be sure to thoroughly vet the roofing companies you're considering. Look for these five things as you do:

1. An education

You want to hire a roofer who has the time, inclination, and communication skills to really educate you on your roof. Roofing companies that can’t - or won’t - thoroughly answer all your questions are trouble. 

Orange County Roofers

Roofs and roof repairs cost homeowners a huge chunk of change - between $4,000 and $15,000 for a full replacement. So you definitely want to be sure to get your money’s worth when hiring an Orange County roofer. Here’s how:

Know How They Charge

Typical roofers charge according to “squares” - ten-by-ten sections of roof. The average roof has between 28 and 32 squares, which may or may not need replaced, according to your needs.

When it comes to actually replacing a roof, Orange County roofers will start by charging for the removal of the old roof. And your costs will depend on how many shingle layers are on the old roof. And if your roof is extra high or extremely steep, expect to pay more.

The Orange County roofer will also charge for installation of the new underlay and shingles. And, of course, you’ll have to pay for the actual materials used to complete your new roof or roof repairs.

Know Your Options

When it comes to roof repair and replacement, you’ve got plenty of options. For instance, you could have the roofer install new shingles over the old ones, instead of removing the old shingles. This is cheaper, but it also reduces the lifespan of your new shingles. However, if you’re on a really tight budget, this is an option to consider.