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Archive for the ‘Uncategorized’ 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

Aluminum Roofing and the Environment

Wednesday, February 10th, 2010 by Mark Vance

Aluminum is a roofing material that can be used in all climate conditions, and is well suited to applications requiring strength, durability, and a lightweight. And, aluminum fits the “cradle-to-cradle” environmental criteria. Simply put, this means that existing aluminum materials can be recycled an indeterminate number of times, thereby reducing the pollution required to manufacture and the landfill space needed for disposal. It is worthwhile to note that studies have shown that composition shingles buried in landfills will take over 300 years to decompose.

Unlike heavy tile and slate roofing, aluminum roofing does not require structural reinforcement. Aluminum is also highly resistant to corrosion, making it suitable for coastal roofing applications. Being malleable, Aluminum also lends itself nicely to intricate and detailed patterns, and can easily be formed to replicate classic profiles such as natural Slate, Clay Tile, or even Wood Shakes. Aluminum Roofing can be designed to as Interlock Roofing, meaning it may be locked on all four corners for ultimate durability and protection.

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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Asphalt Composition Shingle Roofing | Common Roofing Materials Comparison Pt. 1

Tuesday, September 15th, 2009 by Mark Vance

Asphalt Roof Composition shingles are the most common roofing material in North America. They are commonly made of either fiberglass or recycled paper based products mixed with asphalt, which is then covered with colored mineral granules. While they have a low installation cost, composition shingles will usually protect your home for about 10-15 years. Some composition roofs require maintenance or repair in as little as 8 years.  (more…)