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Archive for the ‘Energy Star®’ Category

Solar Roofing at a glance

Wednesday, April 28th, 2010 by Mark Vance

Solar Roofing offers homeowners the opportunity to generate power from their roof.

Different types of Solar Roofing are available, but among the most common are BIPV (Building Integrated Photo Voltaic) and Crystalline.  Both systems are effective, and send power back into the Power Grid reducing your energy costs. However, these systems also need to be considered from the viewpoint of your current roofing style.

BIPV Solar Roofing is typically used with metal standing seam roofing, such as the Interlock Panel Roof . This roofing is common to commercial developments, and is used selectively by homeowners desiring an architectural appearance typically thought of when customers think  of metal roofing.  Crystalline Solar Roofing can be used with most common roofing materials, including shingle, slate, tile, and Interlock Metal Roofing.

BIPV needs to be used on “Flat” metal roofing, since it actually adheres to the metal roof surface.  Crystalline systems  “stand up” from the surface of your roof, and are separate from the roof underneath.

Crystalline Solar Roofing

Crystalline Solar Roofing

Solar Roofing needs to be considered in light of the energy you will save. In some markets, energy costs are high and make these systems economically feasible.  Geography is also a factor, as these systems are more effective in areas of greater sunshine and where  daylight hours are longer. And, government grants are often available to help offset the costs of installation.

Others may choose Solar Roofing as environmental rather than a monetary decision, as reducing energy consumption also reduces pollution.

BIPV Photovoltaic Solar Roofing

BIPV Photovoltaic Solar Roofing

Pro-rated Vs. Non Pro-rated Roofing Warranties

Thursday, February 11th, 2010 by Mark Vance

Roofing products typically come with warranty coverage that is “Pro-rated”. A pro-rated warranty is one that diminishes in value over time, and is designed to financially protect a roofing company at the expense of customers. A pro-rated warranty means the cost of roofing failures are reimbursed at a small fraction of the real replacement costs in an amount that declines over the length of the warranty. Customers may find that their 50-year warranty only covers a small fraction of the replacement value of a roof in the event of a failure.

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Wood Shingles and Shake Roofs | Common Roofing Materials Comparison Pt. 3

Wednesday, November 25th, 2009 by Mark Vance

Wood Shingle RoofWood shingles and shakes provide a natural look to your home. They are commonly made out of cedar, red wood or cypress.

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Clay Tile and Slate Roofing | Common Roofing Materials Comparison Pt. 2

Monday, October 5th, 2009 by Mark Vance

Slate Roof Clay Tile and Slate is commonly chosen for its appearance. Tile is often chosen for the ability to provide homes with a southwestern, Italian or Spanish Mission look, and Slate is often seen on more upscale homes.
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