When an Orange County roofer installs a skylight atop a commercial building, this professional is doing more than suppling increased illumination. Of course, you say, the roofing expert also is providing a great view of the deep blue sky (assuming rain clouds have not gathered). True enough. But the other benefit resulting from the installation of a skylight is a potential increase in business performance. How exactly can this rooftop window make a difference to the bottom line? Well, there are several ways.

First, there’s the mood enhancement principal. When a commercial roofer installs a skylight on a business structure, the admitted sunlight has a positive effect on everyone inside. This is difficult to dispute. Ample research suggests that light from our nearest star generally has a cheering effect on people. The sunlight phenomenon has a special significance for workers. Bathed in solar illumination, staff members are more inclined to feel upbeat and positive. Stimulated in this way, employees are more likely to feel energized. Increased productivity often is the favorable result. Additionally, ample sunshine enhances visibility. This benefit is particularly important in a retail environment, where clearly-seen merchandise is more likely to grab attention.

Who should consider the installation of a skylight? Good candidates are those who own or operate a commercial building in a busy Orange County city, such as Irvine. Simply contact an Irvine commercial roofer (or appropriate professional for your city) to get a detailed overview of benefits and other pertinent information. It very well may be the first step to an unexpected business windfall.

If you have questions about getting a skylight for a commercial building, 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.

A qualified Orange County roofer knows the territory and can install a variety of roofing types. Among the current possibilities is the slate shingle. This material has a special appeal to certain Orange County homeowners. A big part of the attraction is its appearance. For fans of the material, slate is the epitome of aesthetic appeal. And not only for a certain kind of home. The material seems to fit a variety of residential styles. Additionally, slate is known for strength and durability. But remember – it isn’t invulnerable. Despite the material’s inherent strength, homeowners must take precautions. Preventative maintenance is the best means of ensuring slate’s acclaimed performance and durability.

If Slate is So Strong, Why Maintain It?

Homeowners might wonder why there’s a need to maintain slate shingles. After all, the material has been known to last beyond a century in some cases. But conditions vary, especially from season to season. And the changed conditions can impact slate in a most negative way, as it would any other roofing material. Basically, it’s best to be sure. Therefore, homeowners will benefit from a routine inspection conducted by a qualified Orange County roofing company. During this look-see, the inspectors may discover shingle problems or potential problems. Naturally, repairs may be needed. But don’t worry. With proper maintenance, slate shingles likely will provide many years of outstanding performance.

Slate is Everywhere

Slate roofs may be found in virtually any Orange County community, including San Clemente. If your San Clemente home has a slate roof, don’t leave yourself vulnerable to roof surprises. Enlist the services of a San Clemente roofer to inspect your shingles. Should the professionals discover serious issues, they’ll have plenty of time to implement early solutions. As is true in many instances, advanced preparation is the best course.

If you have questions about maintaining slate shingles, 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.

Rain, especially so far this year, isn’t always a problem for residents of Orange County. Nevertheless, those drops do fall on occasion. Which means your rooftop may be vulnerable – especially during a fierce downpour. The typical Orange County roofer experiences some of the heaviest activity in the aftermath of an extended storm. Perhaps accompanying winds have blown shingles away. Or maybe undetected leaks have become open doorways to moisture. The puddle in your living room is clear proof of entry. No matter what the situation, however, a heavy rain is an alert to have things checked out. This means an inspection is in order.

Outdoor Inspection Required

If you really trust your expertise on these matters, conduct a preliminary inspection yourself. If you’re less than confident, rely on the assistance of an Orange County roofing company. What are the danger signs that inspections reveal? One of the most obvious is fragments of shingles littering the ground. Something sent them there. And that something likely is wind and rain. But rain damage isn’t always limited to shingles. Also impacted are other parts of the house, such as siding. During an inspection, all possibilities should be covered.

Indoor Issues

Attics are notorious for springing leaks. Therefore, it’s crucial to inspect these upper regions of the home. A variety of Orange County homes have attics. Perhaps you reside in an Aliso Viejo home with an attic. If you want to be sure about this area, have an Aliso Viejo roofer check yours out after a storm. Naturally, you can do it yourself. Hopefully, you enjoy holding a flashlight while crawling through dark spaces.

If you have questions about inspecting your roof after a rainstorm, 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.

If you own or manage a commercial building, chances are good that sooner or later roof access will become necessary. Access may be needed for a variety of reason. For instance, for the transporting of equipment and supplies into the structure, or to permit the entry of maintenance personnel. Fortunately, a qualified Orange County commercial roofing contractor can help provide this necessary access with an excellent solution. That solution is a roof hatch. This is a common site on commercial structures. Easily installed by an Orange County roofer, it basically is a horizontal door that fits snugly over a roof opening. A roof hatch may be opened and closed as needed.

Depending on the type of roof to be serviced, roof hatches may vary to fit the situation. Commercial roofers often install one of these doors to replace an existing one. As with other components, the previous hatch may have deteriorated or become damaged. A qualified Orange County roofing company also may install a hatch as part of a new building.

Clearly, a well-sealed, watertight hatch is a high priority. To ensure a secure seal, an Orange County commercial roofer often will employ a flanged design. This precautionary measure is applicable, no matter where a commercial building is located. For instance, you may be considering a new or replacement roof hatch for a commercial building in Newport Beach. Should this be the case, be sure to consult with a qualified Newport Beach commercial roofer before committing to an installation. The firm's professional input can offer you a complete assessment of your roof and a solid basis for a sound decision.

If you have questions about roof hatch installation for a commercial building, 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.

Once you decide to enlist the services of an Orange County roofer to inspect your roof, you’ve taken an important and beneficial step. A professional evaluation of your roof’s overall condition can reveal potential or existing problems, which easily can prove quite costly down the road. Leaks, for instance, might be forming or already marring your roof, without you being any the wiser. An inspection can unveil these hidden issues well before problems such as penetrating rain drops ruin your evening. But don’t expect a professional look-see to limit itself to the exterior. A full roof inspection is performed on the inside and out.

During an interior roof inspection, an Orange County roofing company will take a close look at potential problem zones, such as your attic. What the professionals will be searching for are evidence of leaks and deterioration. Sunlight streaming through the roof is one of the telltale signs of an unwanted opening. During this phase, the question of insulation also may come up. If your home lacks this protective material, or if it is unacceptably worn, an Orange County roofing contractor likely will advise the acquisition or replacement of insulation, as the situation demands.

Once the interior phase is completed, an Orange County roofing company will shift to the roof’s exterior. Again, the professionals will be looking for leaks, and their causes – such as missing shingles. Even if you live in a sunny, rain-limited region such as Aliso Viejo, don’t dismiss the value of an inspection. If leaks are present, it takes only a single rainfall to create floor puddles. It’s best to call an Aliso Viejo roofer to check things out.

If you have questions about roof inspections, 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.

If you appreciate the warmth and cheer of natural sunlight in your home, a qualified Orange County roofing company can help provide that benefit. This professional team will do so by installing a skylight on your roof. As its name implies, a skylight invites beautiful natural sunlight into your residence. For anyone seeking happier living spaces, this option clearly is the right move. Bright, cheerful sunlight is a proven mood-elevator.  Without stepping outdoors or even flicking a switch, you can enjoy the mood-enhancing light of our nearest star, easily and comfortably. There are, however, other benefits derived from skylight illumination.

The first of these benefits is the obvious one -- lower electric bills. Yes, with the sun supplying abundant illumination, the need for electric power is proportionately reduced. So is the need to get up from a comfortable position to flick on the nearest lamp. With solar illumination shining throughout your living space, you can stay put. And let’s not forget about all that wonderful fresh air flowing into your home, along with the sunshine. An open skylight installed by an Orange County roofer is a great way to improve ventilation.

Bear in mind that, depending on your geographical location, the installation of a skylight also may entitle you to certain energy-related tax savings. Clearly, residents of Orange County should investigate available tax-saving programs associated with such an installation. This could be great news for people living in a sunny locale such as San Clemente. If things seem to work out in your favor, ask a qualified San Clemente roofer about available skylight options.

If you have questions about installing a skylight in your home, 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.

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.

When rumors spread, they spread fast. This fact of life certainly holds true in the realm of roofing. Because of the persistent myths, homeowners sometimes make uniformed decisions regarding their rooftops. Occasionally, an Orange County roofer must be summonsed to remedy the results of their misguided actions. A far better policy would be to separate fact from fiction as quickly as possible, thereby reducing the possibility of a misstep – a sometimes expensive misstep. Thus, to set things right once and for all, here are several roofing rumors that homeowners should disregard without hesitation.

The Eternal Roof is perhaps the most common of roofing rumors. Many people mistakenly believe that roofs will last indefinitely. Nothing more need be done once those sturdy shingles are strategically positioned atop the happy home -- particularly when said roof is composed of the world’s most durable shingles or tiles. Nothing could be further from the truth. Roofs do wear out. And sooner or later, you’ll require the intervention of a qualified Orange County roofing company to remedy the problem. Those who count on luck also can count on bothersome leaks sooner or later.

Homeowners also fret about the time supposedly needed to repair or replace a roof. In their minds, endless weeks are required for job completion. This is a pure myth. While a certain amount of time will be needed to repair or replace, a qualified professional can expedite the process with little trouble – especially in a warm climate generally free from weather interference. You may, for example, reside in a sunny community such as Laguna Beach. Should you need roof servicing, a qualified Laguna Beach roofer can complete the assignment with incredible efficiency. You can count on it. 

If you have questions about roofing, 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.

Somewhere, sometime, a wise person arrived at this conclusion – good things come in pairs. Well, that may not be true in all instances, but the wisdom certainly applies to the benefits of roof eaves. Two very definite advantages are offered by these overhangs. When an Orange County roofer installs a roof with eaves, this professional automatically provides these benefits -- along with a great addition to the house. Homeowners, however, aren’t always aware of the advantages intrinsic to the overhangs. Therefore, to provide some insight and a deeper appreciation of the sometimes-neglected eave, here is an overview of what they bring to the table. 

First, is their aesthetic appeal. An Orange County roofer that installs a roof with eaves is providing a house covering that universally is appreciated. People the world over typically enjoy the stylish look they lend to a home of any size. In their minds, fans of these overhangs see a roofing choice that makes a home look more like a, well, home. The alternative, of course, is a roof that comes to a stop flush with the exterior wall. This alignment gives homes a boxy, geometric appearance. Naturally, preferences are a personal matter. But if a ‘homey’ residence is your heart’s desire, eaves are the way to go.  

The other benefit offered by eaves is comfort, particularly during the blistering summer months. If you own a home in a sunny locale, these overhangs are a true blessing. Why? Because they provide welcome shade to a home’s exterior. Anyone who owns a home in a sunny community such as Irvine will appreciate the shady comfort they supply. Those considering a new roof in this city (or any other city) may want to consult an Irvine roofer to learn more about the advantages of the stylish, shade-providing eave. 

If you have questions about roof eaves, 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.

A qualified Orange County roofer is well-prepared to solve a full range of roofing problems.  These problems can be anything from a loose tile to a gaping leak. The latter, of course, is especially troublesome during the generally wetter winter season. Leaks don’t play favorites with roofing locations. They can be found anywhere and everywhere. One of the most common places these openings may be discovered is your roof’s valley. As the name suggests, a roof valley is region where two downward sloping sections of a rooftop meet. Ironically, the downward angle is designed to guide water off the roof and into the nearest rain gutter. But alas, things don’t always go as planned. When you least expect it, a small (or occasionally not-so-small) opening forms in this joining of roof sections. And the next thing you know, it’s raining indoors. 

One of the biggest culprits behind the valley leakage phenomenon is leaf bundling. Over time, fallen leaves can accumulate in these junctures, causing corrosive rust to form. The corrosion, in turn, wears away the tiles beneath, finally creating a hole and the perfect opening for unwanted water drops. A qualified Orange County roofing company can help prevent leaf accumulation by inspecting your roof for the debris. Thereafter, a simple and quick leaf removal can prevent costly problems before they arise.

Right now, you can take advantage of the sunny Orange County weather to check for leaf accumulation. If, for instance, you reside in Newport Beach, enlist the services of a Newport Beach roofer to perform this important task. Or tackle the job yourself if so inclined. Either way, this simple preventative measure could eliminate the need for costly leak repairs and prove very beneficial to your personal finances down the road. 

If you have questions about preventing leaks in roof valleys, 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.

There may not be a ‘get-to-know your roofer week’ (not yet). Nevertheless, a certain familiarity with the track record and character of a prospective Orange County roofer is crucial. This means get to know all you can about the qualifications of this dedicated professional.

The path to knowledge here is something we do or have done at some point – research. Yes, homeowners on the hunt for a person capable of installing or repairing their beloved roof should probe all available informational sources. Barring an uncanny ability to foretell the future, such research is the best way to gauge the reliability of a roofing candidate.

Homeowners can avail themselves of numerous informational resources. Consider, for instance, the current favorite of people everywhere – the online review. Many an Orange County roofing company will post glowing reviews on their website, and satisfied customers will do the same on popular zones such as Yelp.

The counterpart to these reviews is the testimonial, which often may be found shouting good and loud on a provider’s website. Homeowners also may step outside the digital domain and go directly to local business-monitoring organizations and bureaus for company-related data. Possible grievances and other revealing insights are recorded at these facilities and are readily available to the curious.

Another key qualifier is the existence of an actual office or other physical structure housing the roofer’s business. Whatever you do, don’t rely on a P.O. box to prove legitimacy. Confirm the company’s physical location, even if you must take time out of your day to drop by for a look-see. This is easy to do. Perhaps you live in a coastal city such as Laguna Beach. Once you’re interested in a roofing company, visit the facility of this Laguna Beach roofer at your convenience. It won’t take long. And it will help ensure you make a safe and reliable choice.

If you have questions about selecting a roofer, 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.

A qualified Orange County roofer can do much to improve your roof. The list of possibilities includes everything from minor touch-ups to complete roof replacement. But one improvement that seldom gets mentioned is painting. That’s right. It’s entirely possible to improve the aesthetic appeal of your rooftop by giving it a coat of paint. If up to the task and feel especially artistic, homeowners can do the job themselves. Often, this is done with the assistance of family and friends susceptible to pleas for help. Or homeowners can bring professionals on board to carry out the mission. Either way, the results can be quite pleasing.

Whether you do the job yourself, hire an Orange County roofing company, or call in professional painters, you’ll likely have questions about the process. One of these is: will paint have any negative impact on my roof? In most cases, the answer would be ‘no’.  Paint has very little impact on shingles. In fact, many an Orange County roofer would say that paint provides a protective coating that enables shingles to last longer. It’s important to remember, however, that not just any type of paint will serve the purpose. The recommend kind for rooftops is latex-based.

The great thing about painting your roof is that the improvement is suitable for virtually any type of roof in any type of community. But no matter where you live, it’s beneficial to get professional advice early-on. If, for example, you reside in Anaheim, consult with a qualified Anaheim roofer about the painting process. The professionals there will offer top-flight guidance that can help you make the very best decision.

If you have questions about painting your roof, 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.