Category Archives: Building Management

Roof underlayment is a strong protective layer or barrier that goes between the roof deck and under the roof deck. It is out of sight and often goes unnoticed, but it is a very important component, because in addition to providing longevity to the roof it serves as insulation against damage from the outside elements and protects the home from moisture, water and debris in the event of a storm that dislodges part of the roof. Depending on the type of underlayment you use for the roof, the performance depends. Both synthetic underlayment and felt underlayment are required to stay within Building Code requirements.

Synthetic and Felt Roof Underlayment: Pros and Cons

Each type of underlayment both acrylic and felt has its advantages and disadvantages, the use of them will depend on the geographical area where the house is located, the materials used for the roofing, the design of the roof, the contractor’s suggestion according to the convenience and finally the budget.

Advantages

Being made of polypropylene laminates or polyethylene plastic , it offers greater longevity and resistance to water, moisture and other external elements of nature such as mold, it is a lightweight material its presentation is in wide and long rolls which translates into greater performance of installation time, It is resistant to tearing, boot traffic which makes it safer when walking on the ceiling, it is suitable for prolonged exposure to UV rays, its weight is 40 to 100 grams per square meter, its cost varies between 17 and 25 cents per square foot. Synthetic underlayment can last between 25 and 40 years.
Disadvantages: It is not a standardized product so it can have different performance levels depending on the manufacturer, its cost is higher for the advantages it offers.

Felt underlayment for roofing

Advantages: it is one of the oldest roofing products on the market, it is manufactured by saturating paper or fiberglass with asphalt, it is available in two types of felt 15, its weight is from 7.5 to 12.5 pounds, its cost is 5.5 to 10.5 pounds. 5 pounds, its cost is 5 cents its weight and cost calculated per square foot of roof and 30 felt whose weight is 16 to 27 pounds, its cost is 10 cents, its weight and cost calculated per square foot of roof, the 30 felt is stronger and offers greater resistance to tearing at the time of installation, its cost is lower compared to synthetic underlayment, for this reason it is the required by owners concerned about the budget of their home.

Disadvantages

At the time of installation it cannot be left exposed for more than a few hours as the heat can dry the material or leach oils, allowing greater exposure to moisture and water absorption, which wrinkles the felt producing unevenness in the roof to place the tiles, it is prone to tearing against winds, its weight makes it difficult to drag the rolls to the roof, in terms of amount of coverage it is less material per roll, which implies greater seams to join the rows and greater weight to cover areas, its surface is slippery.

Conclusion

Seen the characteristics of each type of underlayment, the biggest disadvantage of synthetic underlayment is its cost, despite its competitive prices compared to felt underlayment, however making a general balance of its advantages and seeing the quality of synthetic underlayment, the choice of this ceiling could save you money and inconvenience for your peace of mind and future expense planning.
If you still have doubts or questions about it, do not hesitate to call us to provide you with the required support and advice.

Proper roof maintenance will ensure that its components, such as asphalt shingles, panels and the layers that make up the roof, have greater resistance to the harsh elements of nature, increase the life of the roof, save you money on unexpected repairs, save energy due to greater efficiency, look more attractive, and provide security for you and your family.

Things to keep in mind when maintaining an asphalt roof

Inspect the roof on a regular basis

The safest way to inspect the condition of a roof is to have a professional roofer, as a specialist will make sure to identify in detail the entire roof area, taking into account all the components and giving a report on the problems that need to be addressed. We recommend roof inspections at least twice a year, taking into account the fall and spring seasons.

Perform debris removal

This should be done on a regular basis taking into account all roof components and roof systems. Remember that weather conditions affect roofs on a larger scale. Remove all debris and debris from shingles, vents, flashing, gutters, solar panels, skylights, so that water can run off unhindered to avoid future moisture and leaks that may damage the roof.

Take into account the tree branches near the roof

It is common to find on roofs the remains of branches of nearby trees or plants that grow because of the humidity in that area, the remains of debris that are dragged by the air or storms, which represents a danger because of the damage they can cause both to the tiles that may suffer breakage and to the roof in general, the ideal is to keep cutting branches that are near the roof to avoid damage to it.

Clean the gutters

Gutters free of all dirt will guarantee a roof in good condition, both gutters and downspouts require maintenance to prevent corrosion and sagging, this maintenance includes application of roofing cement or patching and caulking.

Ventilated Roof

A roof with adequate all-weather ventilation, especially during the winter, prevents moisture from accumulating and damaging the roof, good insulation allows for proper energy consumption and no energy waste.

Flashing Maintenance

To maintain a roof in good condition, caulking and flashing are of valuable importance because it prevents roof leaks that are generated because there is water obstruction by the roof tiles, with caulking the cracks in the flashing are sealed where water runs causing damage to the roof.

Don’t delay in making roof repairs

Your home’s first defense against the weather elements is the roof. Keep a close eye on the roof, as missing or broken shingles can leave the roof vulnerable to wind that can tear off sections of the roof, which can expose your home to any external elements that affect the structure of the house and its safety. If you want to keep an asphalt roof in good condition you should check and maintain it, if it does not meet this requirement, you may find signs that indicate you should repair or replace the roof without delay and out of budget.

In Pittsabana we offer you the support you require without having to worry, since we are specialists in the roofing area. We attend you through our contacts. If you’re in the market for new roofing in Allegheny County, PA, turn to Pittsabana Contracting Services LLC Roofing Contractor in Ross Township, PA This local roofing company employs team members who are certified by CertainTeed and committed to delivering premium service on every job, from repairing storm-damaged commercial buildings to fully replacing residential roofs. Call (412) 580-6567 to speak with a friendly staff member to schedule service or visit the website to learn more about how they’ll help you.

Roofers are construction workers who are specifically dedicated to the construction or maintenance of roofs. Searching for and choosing a professional roofer is a decision you can make through the Home Owners Association (HOA) or through a referral. Generally speaking, check to see if they are a roofing contractor in Pittsburgh, if they are licensed according to state and local requirements, ask for a list of clients, if they work with their own workers or under a subcontractor, the reputation they have in the area where they work, and the reputation they have in the area where they work. Compare these requirements with other competitors where they highlight the quality of the materials, the valuation of the work, the time of execution and the guarantee that they offer. Here we offer you the information you need to make the right choice and be satisfied with the result.

What to look for when choosing a roofing contractor

Roofing contractor ratings

Before hiring the professional services of a good roofer check what qualification he has and if he is registered in the state roofers directories , checking his online reviews through Google, Facebook ,. Among the qualities that stand out the most are: Proven experience, Licensed for roofing projects, present insurance registration, offer references on previous works, offer estimates. If the roofer is registered in a manufacturer’s program, they will offer more benefits such as extended warranties and guarantees on their business practices.

What services a roofer offers

Common services offered by a roofer will vary depending on the contractor or company. The roofing service if it is maintenance should first offer general inspection of the roof: check for water leaks, general roof damage, shingles, waterproofing, ventilation, insulation, removal of ice or snow debris, roof cleaning to remove debris buildup, debris removal. If the roofs are made of wood or metal, they offer the service of painting or sealing treatment. If the roofer does the service in addition to the roofing service of checking or replacing window siding and gutters, it can save you money on future work.

What to ask the roofer

At the time of the interview, keep in mind what you want to know to avoid details or inconveniences that will affect the job or the budget:

• Is he licensed related to the area and the service they provide?
• At the time of a claim, do you have homeowner’s insurance, what other insurances do you carry and what is the coverage (the roofer should explain the differences in your coverage/policies, liability on workers vs. general liability)?
• What types of roofs and what materials do you use in the installation?
• Is the roof inspection free of charge or is there an additional cost?
• Can you provide me with references to qualify your work?
• Do you provide written estimates?
• What is your estimated completion time?
• How do you deal with weather conditions?
• What are the conditions for handling and disposal of debris?
• What care do you offer to the surrounding areas such as gardens, garages?
• What are the payment conditions, do you offer financing?

How to hire the services of a roofer

Once you have concluded the qualification, service offered, questions related to the work performed, you can choose the services of the roofing contractor that best suits you to perform the roofing project or roof maintenance. You should consider that there are two types of roofing companies or independent contractors, compare the benefits and bids they offer. Regardless of the bid you choose, make sure that your roofer meets the right conditions.

If you’re in the market for new roofing in Allegheny County, PA, turn to Pittsabana Contracting Services LLC. Roofing Contractor in Sewickley, PA. This local roofing company employs team members who are certified by CertainTeed and committed to delivering premium service on every job, from repairing storm-damaged commercial buildings to fully replacing residential roofs. Call (412) 580-6567 to speak with a friendly staff member to schedule service or visit the website to learn more about how they’ll help you.

Did you know that there are many brands of shingles, and sometimes it is difficult to choose which brand is the best, each brand of shingles that we are going to provide, are made with excellent products and in a great variety, which have considerable impact on the cost of installation, as well as the warranty and service life. The choice of a shingle brand should be oriented to the roof style according to the house and the type of climate where it is located. Roofs are a high-value investment because every homeowner

wants the roof to offer strength, durability and safety for the home.
Don’t let choosing the best brand of shingles be an annoying and uncomfortable task for you. Here we are going to offer you a detailed list of the best asphalt shingles so that from the comfort of your home you can choose the one that suits your needs and budget.

CERTAINTEED

They are the best known in the market for their high quality. Within their range of products they offer asphalt, copper and fiberglass shingles, in a variety of styles and colors. The great benefit of this brand is that all their shingles are manufactured with a fiberglass base, with a double coating of waterproof asphalt and topped with ceramic coated granules. Certian Teed shingles have a SureStart protection plan that covers 100% of factory defects, as well as a warranty against algae. Created with wind resistance in mind, their architectural and design lines have an average weather rating of 110 mph with the option to increase to 130 mph. Certian Teed roofing shingles brands offer a warranty on the work of the contractor who installs these shingles and can be purchased to insure your roof for 50 years. As advantages Certain Teed roofing shingles offer options for more than 2 levels of roofing, variety in the Landmark architectural line, greater wind resistance and better warranties.

GAF

One of the oldest brands in the roofing shingle construction field, GAF has been in business since 1886, offering high quality and competitive pricing for every need and budget. Its most popular line of architectural asphalt roofing shingles in the U.S. is Timberline. GAF offers a wide variety of roofing shingles, grouped into three classes

Wide Selection: has 15 lines of asphalt shingles with a variety of high-quality, affordable architectural shingles
Complete roofing system: Roofing system that gives you complete lifetime protection and full warranties. This system includes starter shingles, Cobra attic vents, , ridge vents and shingles, Deck Armor deck paper, , GAF Timberline shingles, and Weather Watch leak barrier.
Certified technicians: GAF offers certifications to roofing contractors who take the proper courses to install all GAF products correctly. It ensures that you get a certified roofer with the right experience and the best warranties.
Gat Warranties: As the market leader with the best protection plans, its five limited lifetime warranties with exclusions and requirements are transferable if made within the Smart Choice protection period. Pricing: a good economical choice in the asphalt shingle line that fits your budget.

OWENS CORNING

Is a well known brand that offers luxury, durable, high quality fiberglass roofing shingles, known for its eco-friendly shingles with great variety in its weather resistant architectural line, not the best shingles for competitors, however the best selling Duration line of architectural are tough competition. It offers a protection system that qualifies as the best roofing warranty. Its slogan is “Seal, Defend, Breath” in reference to the seal that is for the underlayment, is defended with shingles and roof ventilation.

ATLAS

Atlas is a factory that offers asphalt shingles for architectural roofs of three deluxe tabs, which are the main point of this company also manufactures metal shingles and battens, this factory has registered a process for their scotch type shingles carry a protection, which leads to StormMaster Slate shingles and Pinnacle Pristineo shingles, offering a total guarantee that never scratches

TAMKO

This brand that offers luxury asphalt, architectural and tri-tab shingles, also offers MetalWorks steel shingles, which include three types of stone, StoneCrest metal shingles for luxury style roofing that are made with metal instead of asphalt, some of its product lines offer limited warranties. For its popularity of leading shingle production, the ratings it gets for performance, wind resistance, few lines of architectural shingles, lack of algae protection, are low compared to other manufacturers.

If you’re in the market for new roofing in Allegheny County, PA, turn to Pittsabana Contracting Services LLC Roofing Contractor in Ross Township, PA This local roofing company employs team members who are certified by CertainTeed and committed to delivering premium service on every job, from repairing storm-damaged commercial buildings to fully replacing residential roofs. Call (412) 580-6567 to speak with a friendly staff member to schedule service or visit the website to learn more about how they’ll help you.