If you read our first installation in the series, you know how important a strong roof and exterior is to your home’s value. A healthy exterior protects your home inside and out. These projects also offer high return on investment (ROI)- a great renovation choice for homeowners interested in increasing their home’s value. 

But when it comes to these big repairs and renovations, how do most homeowners pay for them? 

Many homeowners plan on insurance covering the big repairs. Others plan to take the expense out of their home’s equity. 

But there are several external factors to consider when finding the best way to make a large renovation purchase for your home.

Today, we take a look at these factors and offer a few options to consider.

First, let’s take a look at homeowners insurance. 

Insurance Will Cover it, Right? 

Imagine this: 

It’s been storming all night, the wind howling outside your windows. Leaves and debris fly across the sky. You wonder if you should make your way to the basement. After a full night of non-stop rain- you walk outside to see the aftermath. 

Shingles are scattered on your lawn and you know your roof is in trouble.

It’s a disaster…but insurance will cover it, right? 

Although this scenario is made up, thousands of homeowners find themself in similar situations every year. In 2020, 6% of all US homes filed an insurance claim. Roofing and exterior damage makes up a large percent of these claims. 

But homeowners insurance isn’t a catch all and doesn’t always cover you as you’d expect. 

Imagine the scenario above but with a roof over 20 years old. 

You’re going to be disappointed with the insurance payout.

The age of your roof limits your coverage. Need a complete replacement? Insurance will only cover the actual cash value of your roof… not the entire replacement. 

Other factors that can affect your insurance coverage include: 

• Improper installation methods, like layered shingles 
• Roofs showing pre-existing signs of decay 
• Issues classified as “cosmetic” (missing shingles) 

If your roof qualifies for full insurance coverage? Don’t overlook your policy deductible. The average deductible cost falls between $500-$1,000. Yes, this is nothing compared to the full cost of a new roof. But do you have $1,000 readily available for a deductible payout?

Don’t get us wrong- you should absolutely have home insurance. Just aware that, depending on the age of your exterior and your specific policy, you may not be as fully covered as you think.

So let’s talk about what you can do to give your roof the maximum qualifications for insurance coverage:

Maintenance- And Inspections- Are A Homeowner’s Best Friend

When it comes to insurance- regular roof inspections are your best friend. 

We’ve stressed the importance of spotting damage when it’s at an early stage before. This doesn’t just save you money on replacement costs, it guarantees your insurance will cover larger issues down the road. 

With regular inspections from a qualified professional, you have the paperwork to show your roof is fully eligible in the event of a catastrophic failure. 

Here are a two other tips to increase your home’s eligibility for maximum coverage:

#1. Take photos of your roof before damage occurs. Photos are a powerful tool when it comes to insurance. Before-and-after photos prove your roof was healthy prior to the accident in question. It’s a testament to your good stewardship. 

#2. Keep your receipts. Replaced damaged shingles last year? Keep every record. Had a roof inspection? Hold on to the paperwork. Just like before-and-after photos, this proves you perform regular maintenance on your roof and that the damage came from the storm- not your neglect.

When was the last time you had your roof evaluated for damage? 

If it’s time for a check-up, we’re happy to help. We offer free roof evaluations and would love to get you on our schedule. Our team can spot signs of damage before they get out of hand, saving you thousands on repairs. 

Did Insurance Cover a New Roof AND Give You $3k “Leftover”? 

Have you heard stories of insurance covering a new roof with thousands left to spare? Sounds like a good deal after all you’ve paid into the company over the last few decades, right?

While this might seems like something to celebrate- it’s actually a cause of concern.

Yes, under most policies, you can keep money leftover from your insurance claim. But more often than not- money leftover means you haven’t replaced your damaged exterior with the same quality of material that was once there.

Long story short: Don’t take the insurance money and run with the cheapest bid so you can go buy a new tv!

When discussing how to read contractor bids we warn against taking the lowest option. You get what you pay for! And if you’re paying a lowball number, it’s almost always because your contractor is cutting corners or using an inferior product. 

Cheaper materials have shorter lifespans: Take architectural shingles vs 3-tab. Architectural shingles cost more but last longer, have added durability, and increase your home’s insulation. By opting for the cheaper option you’re putting your roof and home at risk. 

Your insurance company isn’t just handing you a pile of cash to say “thanks for being a great customer”. They’ve evaluated your exterior and carefully calculated what it would cost at market value to protect your home. 

Enough about home insurance. Next, let’s take a look at the other option: Home equity. 

What is Home Equity?

In simple terms? Home equity is what you’ve already paid on your home vs. what you owe. 

For example, if you owe $80,000 on your home but it’s valued at $100,000- your equity is $20,000. 

There are a couple of ways to increase your equity. The first is by making mortgage payments. If the money your debt goes down but your home’s value remains the same- your equity in the home goes up.

You can also make improvements to your home that increase its value- and therefore your equity. In the first installment in this series, we discussed how roof and exterior projects can raise your home’s value. 

The last way you earn equity is through appreciation. Appreciation is determined by market trends and inflation. Here in Schuylkill County, homes are worth 19.3% more than they were last year. While this may present a headache for homeowners looking to buy, it’s a powerful tool for those building equity. 

So how do you take out home equity?

A quick google search will tell you the easiest way to get home equity out of your house is to sell it. While this is the fastest (and sometimes easiest way) it’s not the only option. 

Have you heard of the term home equity loan?  Or a home equity line of credit? This is one way you can borrow against what you “have” in your home. 

Let’s use the same example as before. You owe $80,000 on your home, but it’s valued at $100,000. A lender may allow you to borrow some of that $20,000 in equity. With this you’ll be making two payments; one on your mortgage, the other on the HELOC (Home Equity Line of Credit) or HELOAN (Home Equity Loan).

This process of deciding how much a lender will give you is called Loan to Value (or LTV for short). The higher your LTV, the riskier it looks to a lender. This chart from Lending Tree offers a helpful look at the different between a high and low LTV: 

Every LTV and equity loan is different. But with so many fluctuating factors? There’s no one size fits all. 

Interested in home equity loans? This loan-to-value calculator is a helpful tool in the decision making process. 

Need to make a big home improvement purchase but don’t want to deal with the headache of a bank? There are other options.

Short Term Third Party Financing

Let’s be honest; the unexpected is scary. 

Whether it’s market trends, inflation prices, or even something as simple as the weather, these are factors out of our control. 

But this doesn’t have to be a cause for anxiety. Being aware of fluctuating costs and potential upcoming repairs helps you prepare for the future. 

Not prepared for a new roof? Or don’t have quite enough savings for the new kitchen remodel? Some qualified contractors- Martin Roofing and Siding included- partner with suppliers or lending companies to offer their own private financing. 

In 2022, we began to offer our clients several options on financing. Why? Because paying for a small repair is often much less risky than waiting for a catastrophic storm and just hoping the insurance pays out enough.  

We want everyone to have access to a safe, strong, and gorgeous home. So whether you need financing for an unexpected problem or you want to enjoy home improvements now and pay for them over time? We have options available for you.

Take the Risk out of Home Protection

If you’ve started to notice signs of damage or cause for concern on your exterior, give us a call at 570-345-0436 and we’ll assess the damage. Catching warning signs early is the best way to save for the future. 

In our next installment, we’ll take a look at fun home projects and the return on value they carry. If you missed the first in the series, you can read up on it here.

The post How To Pay For Home Improvements appeared first on Martin Roofing & Siding.

We talk about changes- in life, in business, in politics- as ‘ups’ and ‘downs’. It fuels our drive as Americans. Hard work and bootstraps? This is our identity. It’s made us who we are.

But after 30 years of seeing how grace has carried us through tough times, boom times, and crossroads? I can’t look back and see periods of ‘good and bad’, ‘up and down’. 

Instead, we live and work in seasons of growth and rest.

Martin is heading into 2023- three decades of running a family construction business- against headwinds of inflation, housing shortages, and interest rates. We’ve already seen a shift in our conversations with homeowners. Some clients are getting a head start- leveraging their equity to invest in the long-term value of their home. 

But many others are struggling to cover essential repairs.

These conversations don’t feel like a great foundation for a bright and sparkling Christmas. We’ve started to ask ourselves- does that mean there’s a “down” ahead of us?

While our business is strong we’ve heard reports from our suppliers. The construction industry is in a lull and I admit these “what ifs” can be a dull lens covering the joy of wrapping presents or decorating cookies. With the sun setting early? It can feel like literal darkness edging in around the best time of the year. 

My heart goes out to our neighbors and community. The last two years have been boom times for nearly every business- but personally? Our lives have been collectively rocked by pandemic-provoked job changes, divisive politics, relocation, and family loss. 

But there is a light in it all.

When you shift into the mindset of growth and rest? You discover something beautiful about the winters of life: God’s plan has always been seasonal. 

“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.” – Ecclesiastes 3:1 

The modern world fights against seasonality (keeping up with the Joneses really means getting ahead of them, right?) It’s easy to get caught in a “more! more! more!” mindset. If we aren’t outpacing last year’s sales, scaling up our house and travel, and continually displaying signs of success? It can feel like we’ve failed. 

But the universe was created in seasons of more and less. It was darkness and light, creation and rest that brought us here- to another Christmas with each other. 

30 years in business has given me the hard-won wisdom to understand this: pushing ahead without rest or reflection doesn’t work in the long term- because the very framework of God’s plan is seasonal! 

There is growth and rest. We all love sunny days! But let’s not undersell the miracle of cold, dark, and silent nights…nights like that very first Bethlehem Christmas. We’re called to surrender to times of peace and reflection, to rest for the promised seasons of growth ahead. 

I don’t know what the year ahead looks like for you, but my prayer for you is this: Whether 2023 is a season of growth or rest? May you be filled with the divine and quiet strength to carry you through. If rest has never come naturally to you, I understand. May this be the year you discover the joy in peace and reflection. 

With love from our family to yours-

Jenny Martin

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13

The post A Christmas Wish: Growth & Rest appeared first on Martin Roofing & Siding.

Chris, a close family friend of ours, recently sold his home. Before talking with a realtor, he was worried about listing it. He’s lived in the same house for the past 40 years. How we buy and sell homes has changed dramatically in an internet age!

“What if it sits on the market for months?” he asked. 

But after talking once with a realtor? The home sold for $5,000 over asking price, before he even listed it. 

Chris’s story isn’t an outlier- it’s the current norm. In fact, Schuylkill County homes are, on average, worth 19.3% from last year. 

Let’s zoom out, too. According to The National Association of Realtors, the first quarter of 2022 showed single family homes are worth 15.7% more year over year. 

Some say this bubble will burst in 2023. Others say while buying and selling will slow with rising mortgage rates? Home values will remain high. 

These trends can leave homeowners feeling just like Chris did- anxious and overwhelmed. But while you can’t control the market? You can protect the value of your investment.

In this first part of a three part series, we’ll explore the role your home’s exterior plays in your home’s overall value. We’ll also highlight 

• roofing and siding, 
• the best time for a replacement, 
• and the best materials to select when you want the greatest addition to your value. 

Before we get too far ahead, let’s take a look at the key role your exterior plays in your home’s longevity…

“Does Exterior Contribute To My Home’s Value?”

If you’ve read any of our previous resources, you know how often we bring up the importance of curb appeal. But caring for your home’s exterior does more than make a good first impression. 

Your exterior is the face of your home and its first line of defense. 

We often say some of the most important home systems are ones we don’t think about until there’s a problem. That is why we encourage our clients to think about preventive maintenance- and longevity of materials- when we install a new roof or replace a home’s siding. 

Your gutters are a perfect example of this. 

Smart homeowners know their gutters need to be cleaned twice a year. This is regular maintenance with a huge impact. When your gutters are clogged, it can lead to: 

• Ice dams in winter
• Cracks in your foundation (and water damage in your basement) 
• Siding rot

This one small system is responsible for the safety of your entire home!

In a nutshell? Exteriors are critical to the health of your home. So, what does that mean for your home’s ultimate value?

Do You Know The BEST Age To Replace A Roof?

Heard the saying, “if it’s not broken, don’t fix it?”, right?

Unfortunately, the sentiment doesn’t carry over to your roof. A standard asphalt roof will last 25-30 years, but will often start to show signs of wear before this time. 

Even if your roof makes it to its 30th birthday without damage, that doesn’t mean you’re in the clear. 

Ask yourself these two questions:

• When does your roof warranty end? 
• What are your long term home plans? 

While some roof warranties last for 50+ years, most only cover the first 25 years. While your roof may not be leaking right now, if it’s older and still under warranty? You might consider replacing it before you lose access to that resource. A qualified roofing professional will be able to assess the strength of your roof and give you a good estimate on how much life it has left. 

You should also know your own ten year plan. If you plan to remain in your current home, you may be able to stretch out until closer to your warranty’s end. 

But if you plan to sell? We recommend replacing your roof first for the best return on investment. 

Ready for a new roof? Here’s the best material choices to maximize your investment:

Asphalt VS. Metal: Short Term and Long Term Solutions

The best thing you can do when planning for a new roof? Know your budget. But this also comes into play when calculating how to maximize your investment. 

But before we delve too deeply into this, let’s have a brief refresher on return on investment (ROI). 

Your ROI refers to how much money you’ll get out of what you put in. Take a kitchen remodel, for example. Full-scale kitchen remodels have an average 53.9% ROI. If you spend $25,000 on the remodel, you’re increasing your home’s value by about $13,500. 

Different roofing materials have different ROIs.

This circles back to the importance of knowing your ten year plan. If you’ll remain in your current home for the long haul? Metal roofing is the best use of your investment. Metal has:

• 70 year lifespan 
• Class A fire rating 
• And one of the strongest defense against harsh weather

But if you plan to move? Metal carries a higher price tag than asphalt… and a lower ROI. 

Metal has an average 60.9% ROI. Asphalt, on the other hand, has a 68% ROI, And when it comes to price? Metal costs $6-$13 per square foot, whereas asphalt runs between $5-$8. 

To summarize, asphalt is the best short to mid-term stays….and metal is best for your forever home. 

If you’d like more information on pricing, we’re happy to offer a free roof evaluation and estimate to get the ball rolling on your next investment. 

Next, let’s apply these same questions to the rest of your home’s exterior. 

Strengthen Your Home’s Armor

Your siding is like a suit of armor. It protects your home from water damage and pests. Weak points along your siding don’t just threaten the outside, they put the inside at risk.

Siding deviates from roofing when it comes to warranties. Most vinyl siding carries a 50+ year warranty, despite its average 30 year lifespan. This means your warranty will most likely outlive your vinyl siding. 

However, you still might not want to ‘wait it out’. The costs of damaged siding can add up over time.

If you’ve noticed: 

• Increased energy/power bills 
• Small warps in the siding 
• Loose or missing shingles

These are all warning signs your siding is beginning to fail. 

The difference between an early replacement vs. late stage isn’t just having a home that looks nicer. It’s saving countless hours of frustration and thousands of dollars in repairs down the road. 

Choosing Siding Materials Like a Pro

When it comes time to replace your siding, ask these two questions: 

• What’s the best siding for your climate? 
• Which material matches your home’s existing style? 

Climate plays a huge role when it comes to any exterior upgrade- but especially siding. 

Here in Schuylkill County, we know the importance of a solid raincoat! All joking aside, due to the high levels of precipitation our area receives, we work with and recommend Ply Gem’s siding to combat high rain levels. Their Quest line is incredibly strong with wind resistance as high as 190mph!

And while other materials like stone veneer and slate may have longer lifespans, vinyl is generally the most practical option for our clients. 

The other thing to consider is your home’s style. While we don’t often recommend wood siding, some historic neighborhoods require it. If you’re matching the aesthetic of a historic home? Check out this home’s use of imitation cedar shake: 

It has the look of real cedar shake for a fraction of the cost.

A second budget friendly exterior option is manufactured stone veneer, like on this home: 

Another way to spruce up your home without breaking the bank? Utilize different siding materials for a mixed facade. This gorgeous home is a perfect example of this:

Interested in talking more about the right color or style for your new siding? We’re happy to help! We utilize GAF’s visualization software to let you see your home in a new look. You can view multiple options before we even order the materials!

Start Protecting Your Home’s Value

The housing market will always have its ups and downs. Isn’t it comforting to know your biggest asset is protected with a smart and solid exterior? 

If you found this information insightful, make sure to read the next two installations in the series! Next, we’ll take a look at how to plan financially for taking on big projects.

And as always, if you’ve noticed signs of wear on your roofing or siding, give us a call at 570-345-0436. We’re happy to assess your exterior, and offer expert advice on your next installation. 

The post Increase Your Home’s Value, Part One appeared first on Martin Roofing & Siding.

I’m on the phone with a new client in Pine Grove. She and her husband have made the decision to downsize to a smaller home. But with all the new builds and modern subdivision homes available, she’s nervous. Their family home was built in the 1980’s. Will it be overlooked on the market?

So, we’re on the phone, reviewing their budget and deciding the best way to use it to get this house sold to a new owner fast. 

Instead of a new bathroom or a kitchen remodel, I suggested installing a new roof. 

If you’re getting ready to list your house on the market, I’m sure you’ve run across dozens of articles on “The Best Way to Increase Your Home’s Value” and “Realtor Secrets for Selling Your Home.” Most of them will recommend updating the kitchens and bathrooms.

Which is funny because…those are the two things new homeowners are most likely to re-do once they purchase your home!

In this article, I want to show you how investing money inside your home isn’t always the best answer when it comes to boosting its listing price.  

Let’s take an in depth look at what really matters when it comes to calculating your home’s ROI (Return On Investment) and how to spend wisely when it comes to improving your home to sell.

Not planning on selling? This article is still for you! I’ll also share some information on how roof age and material can affect your home’s value, which can be very helpful if you plan on leveraging its equity in 2023. 

Ready? Let’s dive in!

“What is Return on Investment (ROI)?” 

Imagine this: You’ve decided to renovate your small bathroom. The project will cost an average of $6,500. But after the contractor sweeps up…is your $6.5k just gone? 

Cue: Return on Investment (ROI). 

“Return on investment” is a fancy way of saying- how much money are you going to get out of what you put in. If you buy a classic car for $1,000, spend $5,000 restoring it, and then sell it for $15,000? You just got a $9,000 return on your $6,000 investment. That’s a 150% return on your investment (or- sometimes you’ll see it written as 1.5X)

Some things don’t increase in value just because you put money into them. Your classic car was a special case. You were able to get more money out of it when you sold it than what you put in. 

But with most cars? They start to lose value the moment you drive them off the lot. So if you spend that same $5,000 on changing the upholstery or customizing the paint? You won’t be able to get your $5,000 back out of the car when you sell it. 

Let’s leave the car talk on the road and head back home.

You’ve spent $6,500 on a new bathroom. If you put this home on the market, your bathroom renovation is anticipated to receive a 70% ROI. That means, because of your renovation, your bathroom is worth 70% of your renovation cost more. You spent $6,500 in order to increase your home’s value by $4,550.

“That’s crazy!” you might be thinking- and a lot of homeowners do. “Should my bathroom be worth at least the $6,500 I put in…if not more??” 

Unfortunately, no. To make things even more complicated? That ROI doesn’t last forever. If you spent $6,500 renovating your bathroom in 1999? Your outdated bathroom may actually decrease the value of your home!

And this math doesn’t just matter for homeowners looking to sell. This ROI is how smart homeowners determine what projects to do now- and what to save for later. 

We’ve discussed planning a renovation in phases before, and calculating ROI is an extension of that conversation. If both your roofing and siding need to be replaced and you don’t have the cash to fix both? ROI can help you think about the best project to start with. 

Home renovation ROI is very important for new homeowners, and we’re seeing quite a lot of them! Last year, Pennsylvania home prices rose 14.6%. This number continues to grow. If you’re one renovation short of calling a realtor, calculating ROI is a genius math secret you can use to make the most of your budget.

Now that you’re familiar with the meaning, let’s circle back to the importance of a new roof when increasing home value. 

Can A New Roof Sell Your Home Faster…and For More Money?

Ever heard the saying, “If it’s not broken, don’t fix it’? Although an average asphalt roof needs to be replaced every 30 years, most homeowners won’t bother with such a massive project unless there’s substantial damage. 

If your roof’s still under warranty? This isn’t the article for you. But if your roof’s older than you are? It’s time to consider a replacement. 

According to this 2019 Cost vs. Value Report, a new roof has an average ROI of 68%. Not quite as high as that new bathroom, right? Yes… and no. The National Association of the Remodeling Company found new roofs receive higher appraisal values, by about 109%. 

Your new roof increases your curb appeal, which in turn, increases your home value. (Something as simple as updated landscaping can have a 5-11% increase in value.)

And that’s not all. A new roof also saves money through: 

• Lower insurance rates (Average 20% drop)
• Save on your electric bill (10% decrease) 
• Added protection from water damage (Costs homeowners an average of $2,852 each year) 

But how do you know the best roof replacement for your home?

When choosing a new roof, there’s hundreds of material and color options available. You can read a thorough cost and breakdown of pros and cons of the various options, here. 

But let’s take a look at the factors which affect a new roof’s ROI. The two biggest deciders? Material and color. 

What Roofing Material Has The BEST ROI?

If you’ve read any of our earlier articles, you know we’re big fans of metal roofs. They’re incredibly durable with a lifespan of up to 70 years.

But when it comes to ROI? Asphalt roof comes out on top with a 68% ROI vs Metal at 60.9% ROI. 

The biggest reason for this gap? We all know and love shingles! Asphalt shingle is popular, which means homeowners are more comfortable with it overall. Plus, if all the houses around yours have asphalt shingles, fitting in increases curb appeal. 

People like what they know! 

While material is the largest value factor, it’s not the only one. The color of your roof also plays a huge role. 

Can A Roof’s Color Increase Home Value?

Your roof makes up 40% of your home’s exterior. When a potential buyer is pulling in for that first showing, the color of your roof can have a big subconscious impact on their first impression. 

Potential homeowners look for roofs that 

• Match a home’s facade, 
• Match, or at least complement, neighboring houses
• and have great energy efficiency. 

General perception is that “lighter” equals more efficient. While we’ve debunked that here, your home shoppers likely aren’t reading our blog. 

With production shortages and limited supply, choosing a roof color has been difficult for Pennsylvania homeowners in 2022. GAF just announced it will be reducing its product line to focus on keeping core colors in stock, which makes choosing a color even more of a challenge. 

This is why we offer all of our clients free “mockups” using our visualization software. With this system, you can see your roof in a new color before we ever order the materials. 

We also offer resources on choosing the right roof color for your home. You can read up more, here. 

Selling Your Biggest Investment

You’ve decided it’s time to sell your home. It can be hard to realize you may not get everything out of it you’ve put into it. Trends and tastes change, and that all affects your listing price. Fortunately, everyone recognizes the importance of a quality exterior- and we can help you make great decisions on how to get your home buyer-ready. 

Decided you’d like to talk about a new roof before listing your home? Modernize offers a free ROI calculator for your new roof investment. This handy tool is a huge asset for homeowners interested in selling. 

Even more so, our team is here for you every step of the way. 

Interiors, exteriors, we do it all. To book time on our schedule this winter, give us a call at 570-345-0436. We’d love to hear from you! 

The post Will A New Roof Help You Sell Your Home? appeared first on Martin Roofing & Siding.

No shame if you just plugged that crazy word into google. The hypothalamus is the part of your brain that regulates internal temperature. It works together with skin, sweat, and even blood vessels to keep your body at a consistent temperature. 

It’s a powerful and complex system… but it’s not something we really think about. 

Some of the most important systems in our body are ones we just don’t consider. And that’s okay! When everything works right, there are more important things to occupy your mind. 

I know what you’re thinking: 

“What does this have to do with my home?”

Short answer: A LOT. 

A well maintained home is filled with systems we never think about. Systems that regulate temperature, air quality, and humidity. Your house doesn’t have a hypothalamus, but it does have an undercover- and underappreciated- system that keeps everything else healthy: your ventilation system. 

Your ventilation system is much more than your roof or attic vents. These are just a small part of a system that can be tricky to get right- especially as your home ages or you make changes to its insulating properties. 

Today, I want to show you the incredible advantages a good ventilation system can have to your home’s longevity and what you can do to make sure your existing system is a great fit. But first? How does ventilation work?

Hot Attic? Your Home May Have A Ventilation Problem.

Have you ever had to go into your attic in July to pull out a long-forgotten piece of campaign equipment? Did you feel like you were going to melt before making it out alive? You might have a ventilation problem on your hands!

In the summer, your attic should only be +/-20 degrees hotter than it is outside. 

Hot air rises, so it’s only natural for your attic to be the hottest room in your house. But higher temps than this can affect your home’s structure…and your energy bill!

When your ventilation is sized right, you’re protecting your home from: 

• Shingle damage 
• Mold and Mildew
• And issues with HVAC systems

This protection carries through in winter, too! Ice dams are one of the most dangerous winter roof threats. These blockages happen when melting snow refreezes on the edge of your roof, pushing water up under your shingles instead of allowing it to drain off. 

A good ventilation system keeps your roof remains at a safe and consistent temperature year round. 

But ventilation is a “more is better” type of situation. Having the right size is just as important as making sure you have enough. 

Is your ventilation sized right for maximum protection? Let’s find out! 

Your attic can be too hot when not ventilated properly.

Does Your Home Have The Right Amount of Ventilation?

Ventilation is one of our favorite topics. We’ve covered types of roof vents, and how they work, here in this article. 

The question we want to answer today is: How do you know if your ventilation is sized right? 

The best way for a homeowner to get a simple estimate is by using a tool like this: An attic ventilation calculator. By measuring the square footage of your attic, you can get a ballpark feel for how much your home needs. Most basic calculators will recommend 1 sq ft of ventilation per 300 sq ft of attic space. 

But if you’ve noticed: 

• Ice dams in winter
• High HVAC bills
• Damage to your asphalt shingles

You might not have the right level of ventilation, even if you do have that recommended ratio installed. 

Why You Might Need More…or Less…Ventilation 

Every home, and ever era of home, is different. 

Modern homes don’t ‘breathe’ the same as pre-1970s construction. Advancements in insulation, window construction, and even design preferences like ceiling height can play into just how much airflow is moving through your home and into your attic.

It’s not uncommon for us to fix or replace damaged roofing on a modern build that could have been prevented through increased ventilation. Development contractors don’t always think about the amount of ventilation a new build will need for longevity!

The good news? If you do live in a new home, a professional roofing specialist (like Vern Martin!) can take a look at your home to make an expert assessment. Adding ventilation is easy and a very affordable preventative measure to protect your home. 

Another reason you may need to add more ventilation? Modern updates to your older home. 

If you’ve replaced your single-pane windows with energy efficient alternatives, added interior or attic insulation, or installed weather-proof siding? Your older home may not be getting the air flow it once did. 

Big improvements- like additions, insulation, and windows- should always trigger a ventilation check. After all, you don’t want to spend all that money you saved on air conditioning on replacing your roof!

Safe Through Every Season

Ventilation is tricky to evaluate on your own. The good news? We’re here to help! 

We’d be happy to drop by and give you a free evaluation of your roof’s health. We’ll make sure your ventilation is sized right, and check the current state of your roof so you know what to expect in the years ahead. 

If you’re ready to install ventilation designed to last, give us a call at 570-345-0436. We’d love to get you on our schedule so you can start seeing those savings on your heating and cooling bills. 

The post Does You Home Need More Ventilation? appeared first on Martin Roofing & Siding.

Or read this statistic from Trading Economics on how housing starts saw a 12.2% month over month jump? 

Here’s an interesting fact for Pennsylvania homeowners; did you know that 3,743 new homes were built in Chester County last year? Chester County hasn’t seen that many new builds in the last 20 years!

My point? New builds are at an all time high. You probably didn’t need all these stats to know this. As our trucks head down the roads of Schuylkill County we see new developments popping up every day. 

Today’s homeowners are offered so much flexibility when it comes to design. The problem? Most of us think about the inside- without ever considering the yard. We go back and forth over the right flooring or kitchen backsplash…by the time a family moves into their new build? They realize they’ve bought a beautiful home in a completely exposed mud pit. 

If you’re waiting for the grass to grow in?

Let’s Talk About Trees

Shade plays an important role in keeping your roof cool. Roofs with properly regulated temperatures are an incredible passive investment that will-

• Lower your power bills
• Protect against mold and mildew
• And increase your roof’s lifespan 

And the best time to plant a tree? It’s during these beautiful autumn weeks. 

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), complete shade can lower surface and air temperature by up to 45°F. While you may not be seeing the investment back on your baby tree for a few years, it’s the perfect time to think ahead.

In this article? I’m going to give you a few professional tips from- of all places- a roofing expert. 

You might be thinking “Martin Roofing and Siding isn’t a landscaping company, why would it matter to you!?” 

Well, because we love healthy homes! And the amount of sun exposure your roof handles over the next 10 or 20 years can make an incredible difference in the integrity of your home’s structure, your power bills, and even your family’s quality of life. 

Before we take a look at which trees are best for Schuylkill County homeowners, let’s familiarize ourselves with a few gardening terms. 

Schuylkill County: Meet Grow Zone 6B

Ever heard of a grow zone? Before we bought our current home and settled in, I never thought about what plants worked best for our yard. As it turns out? Knowing your grow zone is essential to making solid long-term landscaping choices. 

This term refers to the hardiness of certain plants and helps you find what varietals thrive in differing climates. The United States has ten zones, each based on an area’s average minimum winter temperature.

For example, Pottsville reaches a minimum low of 22°F in winter. Because of this, it falls in the 6b growth zone. Here’s a breakdown across the US: 

Across Schuylkill County, we fall in growth zones 5-6. All of the trees we’re discussing today will fall under this range. 

Growth zone is by far the biggest factor, but it’s not the only one to consider! In this article, we’ll also take a look at: 

• Average tree height 
• How long until the tree reaches maturity
• And how far to plant each tree from your home 

Ready to get started? Here’s the three best trees for Schuylkill County homeowners: 

#1. Red Maple: The Most Resilient Choice

If you have a hard time just keeping houseplants alive- don’t worry! A red maple is the perfect tree for you.  

These trees are the most popular in the US. They can tolerate extreme highs and lows in temperature and can survive in most soil conditions. They span across 3-9 in the growth zone, which makes them perfect for Pennsylvania homeowners. 

Just like our roofs, red maples remain strong against extreme weather. I’d like to think they have another thing in common with our crew’s work: Red maples are gorgeous. 

If you’ve ever looked across the Pennsylvania hills in wonder at the glorious colors? It’s likely the red maple you’re admiring. 

In spring, these trees show off their bright fiery red leaves, accompanied by clusters of flowers: 

In summer the leaves change to green, and then to yellow in the fall: 

Red maples can grow up to 60 feet tall, and 40 feet wide. To account for the size of its mature root system these trees should be planted 20-30 feet away from your home. 

You might be thinking “That’s a long way from my roof! Are you sure this tree will help with energy savings?” 

Trust me. Though this seems like a huge gap, the maple will still provide full coverage at maturity, without threatening your home. For the best natural protection, plant the tree in the direct path of the sun so, at maturity, it shades your house for half the day. 

Most trees take 30 years to reach maturity. However, red maples are fast growers and can reach maturity at just 20 years in optimal conditions.

In a rush for full shade? 

This next tree hits maturity at almost twice the speed of a red maple. 

#2. Weeping Willows: Fast Growers

I’ve always been in love with weeping willow trees. Just look at how dramatic they are: 

These fairy-tale trees are just as well known for their fast growth as for their beauty. Weeping willows grow an average of 2 feet each year, taking 15 years to reach full maturity of 40 feet. 

These trees fall in a 6-9 grow zone and love moist soil. When planted in flat or on low-lying lots, Pennsylvania’s average rainfall of 49 inches offers the ideal climate for weeping willows. 

The only drawback? Weeping willows should be planted 50 feet away from your home. This tree can offer shade by blocking how much sunlight hits your home and keeping ambient temperature down in your yard. It’s full height isn’t often the best fit for direct roof protection. 

If you have a small yard, this isn’t the tree for you. But with ample room to grow? A weeping willow is a gorgeous addition to any style of home.

#3. Birch Trees: Best of Both Worlds

Birch bark is a beautiful tree with deep roots in world history. 

In ancient times, birch bark was used as paper. It’s the national tree of both Russia and Finland. And Native Americans used the bark for the construction of canoes, due to its lightweight and waterproof qualities. 

The reason for its worldwide popularity? Birch trees can grow in almost every climate! With a growth zone range of 2-6, birches thrive in Pennsylvania’s weather. 

Birch trees offer the best of everything, they…

• Can be planted as close as 20 feet to your home 
• Grow at a rate of 12-24 inches per year
• And some varieties grow as high as 70 feet, offering a 30-60 foot range of shade!

There are hundreds of birch varieties to choose from! Wondering the best type for your home? Check out this handy guide to growing birch trees here in Pennsylvania!

Caring for Your Shaded Home

Congratulations- you found the best tree for your home! 

We’ve talked in depth about care for your full-shade roof in the past but let’s take a closer look at how partial shade assists the health of your home’s exterior. 

The shade from a new tree will lengthen the life of your roof but the tree should never touch or scrape against it. While it’s normal for your asphalt shingles to lose granules (known as fall-off) this process becomes dangerous when unnaturally accelerated. Branches scraping against your roof can create bare spots, leading to weak points, and eventually water damage.

Smart homeowners know clean gutters promote a healthy roof. When planting additional trees for coverage, it might change just how often you need to clean them out. For this reason, I’d recommend installing gutter guards. These guards will minimize the amount of debris in your gutters and help protect your roof for years to come. 

Last piece of advice: look out for algae growth on your siding! Additional shade offers the perfect climate for its growth. 

Untreated algae can…

• Create permanent stains
• Lead to wood rot
• And damage your roof’s underlayment

The good news? Algae stains are easy to clean off. You can read how to clean algae from your siding here. 

Protection and Beauty

Did you know planting a tree is one of the most common ways to boost curb appeal? 

Besides aesthetics, you’re also improving air quality, lowering your AC bill, and promoting your roof’s longevity. 

The benefits are endless and the beauty lasts for generations to come. 

Have more questions about protecting your roof? We’d love to hear from you! Give us a call at 570-345-0436 and guarantee your roof remains beautiful and durable for years to come. 

The post Best Trees to Cool Your Roof appeared first on Martin Roofing & Siding.

I’m having a new roof installed! I’m so excited but I still need to choose a color. I was originally thinking of getting a dark gray shingle- but asking for ‘gray’ didn’t narrow down my choices!

Then a friend of mine chose a light beige color for their new roof- saying it’ll keep the roof cool. Is a light roof the right call? Do you have any tips to make the decision easier? And will different color shingles save money in the long run?

Thanks, 

Mary from Pottsville, PA

Mary, you’re not the first homeowner to ask this question- and definitely not the last! After choosing the right installer, most homeowners breeze through choosing what quality of product they want for their home. But color choice? That’s the most difficult part for homeowners selecting a new roof. 

With current asphalt shingle supply? It’s only gotten trickier. I’m glad to hear you’re open to options. Right now? It’s best to have a few in mind when making a selection with any contractor!

Our roofing manufacturer, GAF, carries hundreds of different colors and styles of asphalt shingles. Sometimes just choosing between Sandalwood and Shakewood is overwhelming. 

Your roof makes up 40% of your home’s exterior. When done well? Your roof will boost your home’s curb appeal and increase your home’s value. But when selected without an eye toward your home’s existing exterior? You’ve just made a 25 year commitment to a roof that doesn’t help your investment hold. 

You mentioned both color and weather. Since you’re open to color, let’s take a look at how weather affects your choice. 

The Albedo Effect

Somewhere back in the fifth grade I remember learning about how light colors reflect sunlight and darker colors absorb light (and heat up). This is known as the Albedo effect. 

The same reason you don’t wear black on a hot summer day is the same reason why black isn’t the best choice for a roof in Arizona: It heats up fast and holds that heat!

Roof temperature is important to us. At Martin, we always make sure our roofing installations take into account right-sized ventilation to regulate attic and interior home temperatures. Good ventilation keeps your roof safe from summer heat and protects against ice dams in winter. 

The color of your roof protects your home (and energy bill!) in the same way.

If you’ve read our past articles on roof colors, you know location matters. Pennsylvania doesn’t have the friendliest climate. Did you know we receive an average of 38 inches of snowfall a year? That’s 10 inches more than the national average! 

Because of this, I have two recommendations for your new installation: 

1. Choose a darker color to combat the winter weather
2. Let a professional examine your attic ventilation to guarantee your roof is safe in the summer as well. 

A dark colored roof paired with proper ventilation will guarantee your new roof will last for decades. 

I know you’re now thinking “What about my friend with the light tan roof?” 

Let’s talk about that next…

“Can My Roof Color Save Money?” 

Yes… and no. 

Light tan might have been the most beautiful color for your friend’s architecture and exterior style. The summer energy savings may have just been the icing on the top they were chatting about when you brought up your own new roof project. 

Lighter color roofs can decrease your energy bill in the summer. But what you save for the summer? You make up for in the winter. 

If you’re looking for a way to save money on your new roof, attic ventilation is always the answer. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) proper attic ventilation saves an average of 11% of energy costs. 

Another great way to save money with your new roof? Work with a certified and insured contractor. 

Did you know when you work with a GAF certified contractor, you have access to additional warranties? When you work with our team, you have access to: 

• 50 year protection period (compare this to 10 years with uncertified contractors) 
• Complete disposal coverage for tear-off, including our clean lawn guarantee 
• Our personal extended warranty on our teams professional workmanship 

Martin Roofing and Siding not only keeps up on GAF certification but personally guarantees our workmanship. We want to create lifelong partnerships with our clients!

Ready for Your New Roof?

Mary, I’m so glad you reached out and I hope you found this guidance helpful. 

Still unsure of the right choice? We can help. Ana, our in-house architect, can upload photos of your home and show you how your top selection look in real life. I like it because it takes the guesswork out of the decision. 

I’d love to find time to chat about potential roof colors. If you have idea books or Pinterest boards dedicated to your project? Show them off! The more inspiration, the better. 

Give me a call at 570-345-0436 and we’ll help make the best decision for your home. 

Until next time, 

Vern Martin

The post Ask Vern: Can My Roof Color Save Money? appeared first on Martin Roofing & Siding.

And maybe there’s something to it: They say it only takes seven seconds of seeing something to make a first impression. 

Crazy to think: in the time it takes you to walk to the front door and turn the knob? You already have a “feel” for the house.

Even if you aren’t selling your home you might be surprised by how far a facade refresh can go toward changing the way you feel about your home. Today, we’re looking at how mixed facades can bring back that first-love feeling and change your home’s personality without breaking the bank. Ready to dive in? Let’s go!

What is a Mixed Facade? 

Take a drive through the suburbs and you’ll see the neighborhoods lined with ranch style homes. The name seems like a misnomer, right? 

Despite the style name, these homes weren’t born out of Wyoming or Montana. The style originated in California, inspired by Spanish Colonial homes of the region. In the mid 20th c? Ranch style homes became the most popular single family architectural style for new builds. 

These homes are an early example of mixed facades. Ranch style homes often utilize two different siding materials to create an exterior with depth in spite of their flat proportions. Style isn’t the only selling point for this material use: mixed facades offer a fresh look for a fraction of the cost. 

When using two different materials, you can create an elevated design on a budget- only using the more expensive material where it makes a strong visual impact. We see this often in Pennsylvania with stone veneer and cedar shake. On their own, these materials are high scale…and high budget. But when paired with the right style of vinyl? The overall cost of the project shrinks while still keeping the luxury look. 

Curious on how to use a mixed facade to elevate the exterior style of your own Pennsylvania beauty? Let me show you how!

Mix and Match Your Home’s Exterior

In love with cedar shake siding? We are too! This material is a classic beauty, known for its sustainability, 40 year lifespan, and gorgeous look. 

But it’s also notorious for its high price tag- ranging anywhere from $7-$14 per square foot. 

Using cedar shake alone can max out a budget. Here’s the secret: pair it with vinyl instead of using it as a full facade. They combine perfectly: 

This light gray board and batten is complemented by the cedar shake. Notice how little cedar shake is in use, too. Vinyl siding typically costs $3.50-$8 per square foot. By using the cedar shake so sparingly these homeowners are saving without compromising on beauty.

Here’s another great example of matching a high end material with vinyl siding: 

Authentic stone veneer ranges from $28-$50 per square foot. Notice how little is in use here, and yet it’s absolutely stunning!

If you’ve read our ultimate guide to stone facades, you may remember another great design secret: stone veneer. Manufactured stone costs $6-$9 per square foot, and- unlike authentic stone facades- it can be installed on most homes without worry of structural weight. 

Take a look at this home: 

If I hadn’t told you, you wouldn’t have known the bricks are manufactured. I love the earthy tones of the brick against the dark gray siding!

Our vinyl siding manufacturer, Ply Gem, has a popular cedar shake alternative at the fraction of the cost of real cedar:

Who wouldn’t want a gorgeous facade…and a little spare room in the budget for a nice patio set or landscaping?

Mixed Maintenance for Mixed Materials

Choosing colors and styles isn’t the only thing to consider before mixing your siding. It’s important to understand the maintenance needs of each material.

Take real cedar shake for example. This material requires regular maintenance. Think:

• Scrub/Cleaned every year
• Resealed every 5 years
• Regular insect repellent coating

By choosing an alternative material? You’re also saving the headache of maintenance. Vinyl siding needs only occasional scrubbing for algae and has no other regular maintenance requirements. 

What about durability? 

I have great news: Authentic brick veneer can last for centuries. Even manufactured stone lasts up to 50 years. 

Vinyl siding, on the other hand, has an average lifespan of 30 years. That means you’ll need to replace it long before your other materials.

I like to think of this as another budget bonus: By replacing the siding at different points in time you break down the cost in segments. 

Time to Give Your Home a New Look? 

Whether you’ve found a style you love in your budget, or still have questions about mixed facades, we’re here to help! 

When it comes to upgrading your exterior, there are hundreds of different colors and material combinations to consider. We offer in depth resources on choosing siding colors, but we’re also happy to hop on a call and discuss your options one-on-one.

When you work with our team, we take the anxiety out of every project. We’re happy to answer any questions you have, and look over your Pinterest boards or idea books. 

Your home is unique, and we treat each new project as such. Ready to set up your free consultation? We’d love to hear from you! Give us a call at 570-345-0436 to get on our schedule. 

The post What are Mixed Facades? appeared first on Martin Roofing & Siding.

Did you guess it’s due to damage? 

You’d be right! A recent survey by Alside, (a siding manufacturer) found 39% of the 1,300 homeowners surveyed replaced their siding due to damage. 

The shocking part? 36% replaced their siding solely to boost curb appeal, and 23% did because they just didn’t like their home’s look. Here’s a complete breakdown of the survey’s findings: 

After a decade in this business? The results come as no surprise here. Your siding makes up 70% of your home’s exterior. It’s the face of your home- the first impression for friends and neighbors. We all want to take pride in where we live, and that means loving how your home looks when you pull in from work!

But what do you do if you want to refresh your facade but you don’t have vinyl siding? Homeowners with brick homes, or mixed facades with a brick foundation, find opting for a total replacement isn’t just out of budget. 

Which is why we get this question so often:

“Can I paint my brick facade?” 

Chip and Jo Say No

In season 1, episode 2 of HGTV’s “Fixer Upper: Welcome Home” Chip and Joanna Gaines are asked this same question. Homeowner John wants the couple to paint his historic home white and they reluctantly say they will.

But after a deep clean? 

Chip and Jo decide they just can’t paint the historic brick. It’s too beautiful! Once the homeowner sees the clean home, he also falls in love. Here’s a photo- what do you think?

But is painted brick always a bad choice? As far as aesthetic is concerned, it’s a decision you should be 100% confident in: Once you paint brick, there’s no going back. 

When homeowners come to us asking about painting their brick I recommend doing this first:

Powerwash your home’s brick exterior. Unlike vinyl siding, brick can safely be power washed. If your brick looks streaked, dirty, or worn, sometimes the solution is as simple as cleaning it. If after washing it you’ve fallen back in love with the historic look? No need to change it. 

Still craving that fresh white brick? Read on for tips to safely paint your brick. But first let’s take a look at how painting bricks can affect your brick’s lifespan.

“Does Painting Brick Cause Structural Damage?” 

There’s a fine line between updating your home and spending thousands on a trend that will date it in five years. If you’ve read about our 2022 siding trends, or our kitchen remodel trends, you know we always look at styles backed by history. 

Painted brick siding may seem like a new craze, but it’s been a stylistic choice since the 1870’s. Back then bricks weren’t as hard as they are now and often required a protective paint coating. From there, the style was born. 

But what was once done for added durability is now known to weaken the bricks.

The truth is painting modern brick- even if done correctly- will weaken the material. 

When a professional tackles the job, there is a lot of time sunk into preparation. We dry, prime, paint, and apply a protective coating. But even with these additional steps? There’s no way to guarantee moisture hasn’t been trapped in the layers at some point in the process. The best methods can only minimize the potential. 

Overtime, any amount of moisture will cause erosion. Working with a skilled contractor is the difference between eroded brick over decades instead of in the first ten years.

Future damage is the biggest downside to painted brick but it’s not the only drawback. Keep in mind that if you make the transition to painted brick: 

• You’ll need to repaint the bricks every 5-10 years
• Dirt and algae show easier on painted brick 
• And- here’s the real kicker- painted brick is not ideal in rainy climates (that’s us Schuylkill county homeowners!)

If you’re interested in painting your brick facade, don’t try and DIY. This is a decision best carried out by a professional. 

Decided the risks outweigh the results? There are other ways to spruce up your home without threatening its structural integrity. 

The Safe and Stylistic Upgrade

Is your home ready for a new look? Let’s talk about safe and long-lasting alternatives to painted brick! 

Does your home have a mixed facade? Mixed facades aren’t limited to ranch style homes. We’re seeing them more and more in new builds, too. Instead of painting your brick foundation and risking a headache down the road, consider a facade update. 

Homeowners Bob and Karen traded their weather worn vinyl siding for a warm cappuccino color, and it looks like a brand new house! 

Here’s what it looked like before: 

And after our team renovated it: 

Is your home a complete brick facade? If you’re looking for an exterior overhaul that won’t break the bank, consider manufactured stone veneer. Take a look at this home: 

Manufactured stone is cost effective and lightweight. Authentic stone facades cost $28-$50 per square foot. But manufactured stone? This material ranges from $6-$9 per square foot. 

Want to know more about the benefits of stone facade? You can read all about it here!

Want to talk about your options for upgrading your brick facade? Whether you’re set on painted brick and want professional help, or want to explore more options, our team is here to help. 

Bring in your idea books and show off your Pinterest boards. We’ll make sure whatever upgrade you make, you fall back in love with your home. 

Give us a call at 570-345-0436 to start the conversation and schedule your free consultation!

The post “Can I Paint My Brick Home?” appeared first on Martin Roofing & Siding.

It’s a hot one! I am looking for ways to cut back on our AC bill while still keeping the house cool. 

When I brought this up to my neighbor, he said he used a “cool roof coating” on his garage. It’s a white paint coating he put on last summer and says it’s working. Now, I’m not one to get out the ladder for something like that unless it really pays off. So my question is:

Can you really paint shingles white to keep your house cool? Is this something I can use on my house- or is it just for garages/sheds/etc?

Thanks,

Dale from Tamaqua, PA

Dale, I’m glad you reached out before stopping by the hardware store. While I can’t inform you too much on the state of your neighbor’s roof, I can tell you this is NOT the answer for the asphalt shingle roof of your own home. 

Painting anything on your shingles is a bad idea: let me tell you why.

This coating is a type of paint known as elastomeric. The paint was designed in the 1950’s but the practice of using it on roofs has grown more prevalent in recent years. In fact, in some misguided circumstances even authorities have encouraged the use of this product to try to make roofs more “energy efficient”. In 2010, Florida Power and Light reimbursed contractors who painted roofs with elastomeric coating… only to be sued when the roof’s started leaking as a result. 

The white coating is believed to protect against water damage and reflect UV rays to keep your roof cool. But much like layering shingles, it causes more harm than good. 

Let’s take a look at the potential threat it poses to your roof. 

Do Elastomeric Coatings Help or Hurt Your Roof?

Do elastomeric coatings decrease energy bills?

Yes…and no. 

In the summer, the coating can decrease energy costs. 

But what you’re saving in the summer, you’re repaying in the winter. The coating affects heat absorption on cold days. Even more, when your roof can’t regulate heat you increase the risk of ice dams. 

More bad news if you live in a rainy place like Schuylkill County: Roofs painted with “cool paint” are more susceptible to moisture damage. Mold and algae grow on top of the coating, as well as inside and under when the coating cracks. 

Still considering painting your roof white? Here’s the big reason to stay far away from this product: Elastomeric coating is known for voiding manufacturer’s warranties and insurance claims against early roof failure.  

All this adds up to a weakened roof and a lot of potential out-of-pocket expense for you. 

Other downsides to the coating include: 

• Decrease in curb appeal 
• It locks in dirt and contaminants
• Requires regular maintenance and yearly re-application

Don’t do it, Dale! If your HVAC is struggling to keep up and you think your roof’s temperature is to blame, let’s check your ventilation sizing instead.

Overheating Roof? A Job for Attic Ventilation

The most important parts of a home’s structure are the unsung heroes we never see. Soffit and fascia keeps bugs and rodents out of your attic. Your home’s foundation keeps water from flooding your basement. And your attic ventilation? It regulates your home temperature. 

More times than not, we don’t think of these systems until there’s a problem. Dale, if your home is unable to regulate its internal temperature? There’s a problem. 

So what is attic ventilation? And how does it work? 

Ventilation works by utilizing one of two systems: passive and active. Both are based on the fact that heat rises. Passive ventilation uses convection to cool your home. The intake vents pull cool air into your attic, while the exhaust vents on your roof’s ridge filter the air out.

Active ventilation does the same thing but utilizes powered fans and vents to get the air moving. 

When you ventilation is sized correctly to your home, it:

• Protects it against mold and mildew
• Increases your home’s indoor air quality
• And keeps your shingles at peak performance for longer

Interested in learning more about your ventilation system? Our previous article offers a further breakdown on how ventilation works and the benefits of the system. 

You might be thinking “My roof already has vents- that can’t be the solution.” And, you may be right. But more often than not? I’ve noticed many roofing installers don’t size ventilation appropriately to the structure’s build, age, and sun exposure. 

Good news: You may be just a vent or two away from the comfort you’re looking for! 

Ready to Safely Keep Your Home’s Roof Cool?

Dale, I’m so glad you reached out about this! Not enough homeowners know about the danger of “cool roof” or elastomeric coatings when applied to shingle roofing. 

Give me a call at 570-345-0436 when you get a chance. Let’s assess your home and learn what’s really going on with your roof. 

Until next time, 

Vern Martin

The post Ask Vern: Can Elastomeric Coatings Cool My Roof? appeared first on Martin Roofing & Siding.