Virtually every homeowner would welcome a reduction in property insurance premiums. But few in this group realize that a qualified Orange County roofer can facilitate such a discount. More on this in a moment. But first a look at one of the possible factors insurance companies consider when writing a property insurance policy. Many people would not guess that this important factor is the roof. Yes, those shingles and tiles do more than shield your living room from leaky rain drops; they also influence the price of your premium.

First and foremost, an insurance company will consider a roof’s age. The reason for this is the value an insurer places on risk. The older the tiles and shingles, the greater the risk of leakage – and therefore internal damage. Insurers work in a world of probabilities, examining and calculating every variable. Not surprisingly, the probability of damage increases with every passing year. So, most likely, will the premium required to cover the rising risk. Over time, the added payments can swell to a tidy sum. And now the reason that an Orange County roofer can prevent this brutal surcharge –

A qualified Orange County roofing company can work this bit of magic by either refurbishing or replacing an aging roof. This, in turn, lowers leakage risk. Down go your premiums. An investment, to be sure. But one that almost certainly will pay off in the long run. Do the math. You can start by getting an estimate from a qualified professional. It’s easy, no matter where you live. Maybe you call Anaheim home. Great! Just call a trusted Anaheim roofer to get a detailed estimate. Then crunch the numbers. It’s that simple.  

If you have questions about how the condition of your roof affects property insurance premiums, be sure to reach out to Luke Roofing. A long-established Orange County roofer, we provide prompt, reliable expertise for every residential roofing and commercial roofing need. No matter where you live in OC, you can count on Luke Roofing for the most efficient, reliable roofing solutions.

How to Find the Best Roof Repair Company for Your Home

Is your home in desperate need of a roof repair? We're telling you how to find the right roof repair company to complete the job. Click here for more.

Keyword(s): Roof Repair Company

Let's face it: as a homeowner, one of the most important (and expensive!) parts of your house is the roof.

A roof not only keeps you dry and warm, but it's a key visual aspect of your house, too. A good roof can also add to your home's resale value.

The kicker? In addition to being a crucial part of your home, a roof is also one of the most expensive to maintain or replace. This means that a good roof repair company is crucial - and plenty of people take the time to do their due diligence. You should definitely be one of them!

Here, we tell you how to start your search for a good roof repair company, and what questions to ask once you've narrowed down the list.

Finding A Roof Repair Company: Starting the Search

Google "roofing contractors in your area", and the search results are probably overwhelming. So, where to start?

Ask neighbors or friends for referrals. If you're new to the area, another option is checking Angie's List. Once you have a few names, run the company against the BBB and the National Roofing Contractors Association. Check out the company's website, too: it should be professional-looking and, hopefully, have some firsthand reviews.

Another option? This may seem obvious, but hop in the car and take a drive to look at roofs! What style of shingles do you like, and what's popular in your area: asphalt? wood? tile?

If you think the workmanship of a roof is particularly outstanding, consider knocking on the door and asking about the contractor. The homeowner will be flattered!

And don't forget to stay local: local roof repair companies will be up-to-date on the city's laws and requirements for pulling permits. In some areas, a permit is only required if you're changing the home's roofline; in other areas, it's required even for moderate repairs to the roof's material.

Lastly, roof repairs often require repair or replacement of gutters, too. If you think this may apply to you, ensure you work with a company who can handle gutters.

You've Narrowed It Down: What To Look For Now

Licensed & Insured

Ensure your roof repair company is fully licensed and insured (workman's compensation and liability.) This includes all employees as well as any subcontractors. Ask to see the insurance certificate so you can validate.

In the event that a roofing contractor is injured on your property, you need to ensure that the roofing company has their own insurance to cover associated costs - otherwise, you can quickly find yourself dishing out the dollars.

Warranties

Any good roof repair company should offer a warranty (though it will vary by shingle type and location.) This shows that not only does the contractor believe in the durability of his own work, but the warranty also protects you in the event that your roof starts leaking prematurely or wasn't properly installed.

Cost & Payment

Get at least three bids for your roof repair or replacement. And remember: roofs are not cheap. If the cost seems too good to be true, it probably is. Also, make sure the contractor does not require 100% payment upfront: bad contractors have been known to take the money and run, so the final payment shouldn't be made until after the work is complete. And get everything in writing! Cost, payment terms, etc.

Go With Your Gut!

A good contractor won't leave you feeling pressured to make a quick decision, and they won't charge you for a bid/quote. If you get a bad vibe when you meet a contractor, or if you find that they aren't returning your calls in a timely manner, move on to the next one.

Questions to Ask a Roof Repair Company

Once you've chosen a roof repair company, there are a few questions you'll want to ask to ensure that you don't encounter any hidden surprises:

• When can you make the repairs? Ask this one upfront: it would be disappointing to select a great contractor, only to realize they can't work on your house for three or four months.

• How long will the repairs take? Some smaller homes may take only a day or two, but larger homes can take well over a week. Also, you may choose to stay with friends or family during this time: roofing repairs can be loud, and scary for pets or kids.

• What kind of mess will you make? Remember, the roof repair company may have to tear off your old roof and the protective materials underneath. This means that your yard and driveway may be unsafe and unusable for a period of time. Things like nails and other debris will be present. Ensure you're comfortable with the contractor's clean-up plans.

Don't Forget About Insurance!

Prior to agreeing to any repairs with your chosen roof repair company, it's recommended that you contact your insurance company if you plan on making a claim. The insurance company may request information from the contractor (e.g. insurance certificate or photos.)

Working with your insurance company early can also prevent headaches (and money!) down the road. Imagine if you spent several thousand dollars on a new roof repair, only to learn that your insurance company won't cover the claim because you didn't follow protocol. Most insurance companies have some limitations to roof repair claims, so ensure you understand them before you sign on the dotted line.

Start Your Search Today!

Now that you know the ins and outs of finding a great roof repair company, start asking friends or neighbors for a few recommendations. Do your homework and ensure you're considering only professional, licensed roofers.

Although it's an expensive investment, a good roof can last thirty or more years. This is not the time for you to cut corners or procrastinate. In fact, waiting too long to replace a leaky or damaged roof can cost you thousands more in the long haul.

Here at Luke Roofing, we can promise you quality workmanship at an affordable price. Contact us today for your roofing repair needs!

Choosing the Right Roofing Materials for Your Home

Choosing the Right Roofing Materials for Your Home

Different homes in different climates will require different roofs, but which kind is the best? Here's how to choose the right roofing materials for your home.

Keyword(s): roofing materials

Need a new roof?

The choices can be overwhelming.

The roofing materials you choose must protect and insulate your home. But you also have to consider the cost and appearance.

The best choice will be affordable and give you a good return on your investment by increasing the value of your home.

Keep reading to learn what's available, and the types of materials that work best on a residential roof in Orange County.

Roof Style

The roof style of your home may determine which type of materials you can consider.

If your home has a low slope or a flat roof, you may use a different material than a home with a roof that has a very steep pitch.

The structure of the home must be able to support the material you choose. If you want a slate roof, which is very heavy, the house has to be able to carry the load.

Consult with a professional to learn which types of roofing materials will work on your home.

Cost

After you determine the type of roof your house can support, you'll need to figure out the cost.

There are several things that determine the price of a new roof.

• Roofing Materials
• Condition of Existing Roof
• Removal of the Previous Roof
• Structure Repair
• Type of Roof (Steep, Flat, Intersections)
• Skylights, Chimney, Turrets
• Solar Panels

A home with chimneys, dormers, and skylights will cost more than a home with a simple roof. This is because it's labor intensive and requires more materials.

If the structure of the roof has rot, termites or other damage, you must repair it before you put on a new roof. That will add to the cost.

Types of Roofing Materials

Below are the best types of materials for Southern California weather.

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are light in weight, easy to install and fit most budgets.

Most asphalt shingles are fiberglass. They're fiberglass mat that's saturated with asphalt and coated with colored ceramic granules. A roof covered in asphalt shingles can last up to 30 years.

A shingle roof has lower insulation quality than other roofing materials. But, they are available in many colors and are the cheapest option.

In fact, most Americans choose asphalt roofing materials for their homes.

Asphalt shingles used to be one of the least energy-efficient materials. They absorbed a lot of solar heat.

Now they are shingles with reflective granules that reflect most of the sun's heat.

Asphalt shingles are recyclable.

Wood Shingles and Shakes

Wood shingles and shakes are cedar, redwood, and southern pine.

Shingles are machine made. Shakes are handmade and often have a rougher look. Both have a natural look that adds character to a home.

Wooden roofing materials can grow mold in heavy rainfall areas. There has also been concern over fire resistance for wooden materials.

You can find shingles and shakes treated with fire retardants to reduce risk. Check with your local building officials to determine any restrictions on installing a wood roof in your area.

Metal Roofing

In the past, metal roofing covered warehouses more than residential homes.

Technological advances, and changing styles, make it easier for people to use at home. The choices today include copper, aluminum, alloy strips, and stainless steel. Many of the metal materials include recycled content.

Copper is the most expensive of the metals. As it ages, the copper takes on a green patina.

Metal roofs can be textured to look like wood shakes, shingles, slate or tile. The materials are long-lasting, lightweight, and resistant to bad weather. Metal also won't burn.

Besides their good looks, metal roofs are easy to install because they are so lightweight. A metal roof reflects the sun so it stays cooler inside in the summer.

Clay Tile

Clay tile roofing is natural clay that's fired in a kiln.

You've probably seen the half cylinder shaped tiles that are popular in Spanish and Mission style homes.

Clay tiles are durable, expensive and heavy. Your roof may need reinforcements to support the weight of a clay roof.

Overall, clay tiles provide many of the same benefits as slate, but cost less and offer more color choices. Clay tile is fire resistant.

Concrete Tile

Concrete tile is made of sand, cement, and water. It's available in different colors and textures.

The color is incorporated into the cement. It's not just a coating. Some color may fade after a few years.

Concrete tile is available in flat profile, low profile and high profile. Each profile has a different appearance. Low profile has small curves and high profile has larger curves.

A concrete tile roof is one of the most difficult roofing materials to install correctly. But, when properly installed with the right underlayments, battens, and flashings it will be a very good roof.

Concrete tile roofs are more expensive than asphalt shingle but less than a clay tile.

Slate

Slate is a beautiful natural material that lasts for hundreds of years.

If you are roofing a house with slate, you must reinforce the roof to carry the heavy load.

The color of slate comes from it's chemical and mineral composition. It will vary depending on where the slate is from. The slate may also change color after exposure to weather.

Slate is one of the prettiest types of roofs. But, installation is labor intensive and should only be done by skilled professionals. The installation and the raw materials make a slate roof expensive.

Simulated Slate Roofing Shingles

If you want a slate roof at a reduced cost, you can choose a composite material that looks like slate.

It is similar in weight to asphalt, so you won't need to reinforce the structure.

The simulated slate shingles are made of plastic/polymer, clay, rubber or asphalt.

This composite material looks like the real thing. However, it may crack under impact. It also may fade. Although it doesn't cost as much as real slate, it is more expensive than other choices.

Get an Estimate

If you need help with a new or replacement roof, contact Luke Roofing for an estimate. We're a long-established Orange County roofer.

You can count on Luke Roofing for prompt, reliable expertise for every residential roofing need and situation.

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.

The Pros and Cons of Orange County Roofing Materials

Until you build a custom home or re-roof your existing home, you might not even think about all the types of roofing materials that are available today. But take a cross-country road trip through America, and you’ll see many different types of roofing materials - metal, asphalt shingles, clay, cedar shake shingles, and more.

Orange County homes can use any of these types of roofs, but before you choose your ideal roofing material, you need to know the pros and cons of all of your options. Here are the pros and cons of the most common Orange County roofing materials:

Asphalt shingles: Because they’re easiest to install, about ¾ of American roofs are covered in asphalt shingles. They come in a variety of colors, and they’re less expensive than other types of roofing materials, costing between $50 and $150 per 100 square feet.

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.

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.

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.

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:

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.

You look up in the spring and notice that the shingles on your roof are looking a little curled-under or wavy. That’s not good! If your shingles look like that, or if you’re missing lots of clay tiles, it may be time to replace your roof.

This is a project no homeowner looks forward to. But tackling your roof replacement sooner rather than later may actually save you money. If you can replace the roofing material before the underlying plywood is damaged, you’ll save a ton!

The actual cost of replacing your roof will depend on a number of factors. And only a qualified contractor can tell you exactly how much your roof replacement project will cost. The best Orange County roofing company will be up front with a quote, and will detail exactly what goes into that final cost.

When it comes to southern California roofing, the primary choices are shingle and tile. Both options have their advantages, and the most important thing is to ensure that you’re using the best Orange County roofing contractors for the job.

But if you’re wondering about the major differences between these two types of roofing, we’re here to help. Here are the main differences between shingle and tile roofs:

1.Eco-friendliness

These days, many Californians are looking for eco-friendly home options, including roofs. As far as eco-friendliness, tile roofs win hands-down in California. Shingles can actually be better in some colder climates, but concrete and clay tiles are generally more energy-saving with our warm weather.

Most of the time, homeowners think of their home’s roof as nothing more than a utility. It’s just something that has to be replaced once in a while to be functional. But depending on your roofline, your roof could account for nearly half of what people see when they walk or drive past your home. That’s some serious real estate for the eyes, and you want to be sure that it looks great!

Luckily, adding curb appeal with a new roof isn’t that difficult, especially with all of the options on the market today. Here are a few ideas for updating your roof to create more curb appeal:

No homeowner likes to hear that they need a new roof. Roofs, after all, are expensive. So it can be tempting to skimp on roofing costs. A little here. A little there. What can it hurt?

So you use less expensive materials, or hire a contractor at a cut rate. What difference does that really make, in the long run? This is especially tempting if you’re not planning to stay in the home for more than a few years anyway. You’ll never see the return on investment for a more expensive roof, or so you think.

But when it comes to roofing, it’s one of the biggest and most important investments that you’ll make in your home. After all, a roof is what protects and covers the rest of your home, which makes it a pretty important part of the whole.

As the environment and environmental concerns come to the cultural forefront - especially here in California - more homeowners are asking how to go green with home renovation and repair projects. One great place to begin going green is with your roof. But which roof is the most eco-friendly? And how green can you get with your roof? We’re here to answer these questions and more.

What does “green” mean for a roof?

When it comes to your roof, there are plenty of ways to go “greener” than you already are right now. One of the most eco-friendly options is probably a truly green roof, which grows heat-deflecting, oxygen-producing, air-cleaning plants on the roof. But you don’t have to get quite that out there when choosing a greener option to replace your home’s roof. Instead, just think about these factors:1.Energy savings

Your roof is a huge part of your investment in your home, since it protects literally every other part of your investment. So you want to take extra time and care when repairing your roof, and making decisions about roof repairs. On that note, here are five things to avoid when it’s time to repair your roof:

1.Hire a cut-rate contractor

It may seem tempting to hire a less experienced contractor, or one who quotes a too-good-to-be-true low price. Cheaper contractors - especially those who don’t give a solid reason for being significantly cheaper than your other quotes - are often cheaper for a reason. These contractors might cut prices by hiring less experienced laborers, or by using lower-quality materials. None of these things are good for you or your home!

Instead: Shop around and get quotes, but choose a contractor who offers the most value for your money. Experience counts in this business, so opt for a more experienced contractor who has a crew of well-trained workers. You’ll save money in the long run.

When it comes to the exterior of your home, some problems can be let go for a while. Maybe your home needs a good cleaning, but you want to wait until next summer. No problem. But when it comes to your roof, there are plenty of issues you definitely don’t want to wait on fixing.

Remember, your roof protects the rest of your home. So when there’s damage to your roof, you’re putting your entire home at risk. No, roofing repairs aren’t necessarily the things you want to spend money on. But without a solid roof in excellent shape, you stand to lose much more in your home.

Chances are that your roof takes up quite a bit of the overall square footage of the outside of your home. In fact, it could be up to half of what people see when they pull up on the curb, depending on the design of your roof. So one of the simplest ways to add curb appeal to your home is to add some appeal to your roof.

There are plenty of ways to do this, including upgrading to a tile or slate roofing option, or choosing a roof in a unique color. But one of the best options for upgrading the look of your roof is to talk to your Orange County roofing contractor about architectural shingles.