Roofing Information...

How do I insulate an old house built in 1750 with an old metal roof?

August 11, 2023

QUESTION: I live in a house built in 1750, which originally had a slate roof. It’s had a metal roof for at least the last 100 years. Currently, it’s a standing seam gable roof with no soffit, gable, or ridge venting, and the only material between metal and attic is the wide rough-cut roof batten… ( read more )

A Homeowner asks about Metal Roofing Underlayment & Condensation

March 1, 2023

Ron M. of  North Carolina writes:  Before I get an estimate from a contractor, I want to learn more about roofing underlayment and condensation. I am considering replacing the 23-year-old screw-down metal roof of my home. Here’s some information about the construction of my house and the current roof: I want to replace the asphalt… ( read more )

How to Deal with Your Roof: Ice & Snow

September 10, 2021

Severe winter weather brings dangerous ice dams that accumulate on rooftops. These ice dams can damage roof systems and also allow melted snow to enter the home. They can also form dangerous icicles and ice packs on the home’s perimeter, posing a hazard to pets, people, and shrubbery. How Ice Dams Form Ice dams most… ( read more )

Hail:Metal Roofs Offer Resilience

August 16, 2021

Each year, hail storms in the United States are responsible for billions and billions of dollars of property damage. Much of that damage happens to roofs and vehicles. Insurance companies are continually taking steps to minimize their liability for hail-damaged roofs. Things like large deductibles and age pro-rating have become common. Even in high-frequency hail… ( read more )

Metal Roofing and Wind Resistance for Homeowners

July 8, 2021

Over the past few years, weather changes have brought longer and more violent storm seasons to coastal areas and further inland. Our country has responded with requirements like stricter building codes and Fortified Housing guidelines. While Mother Nature can dish out a lot, homeowners can protect their properties, families, and belongings.  Usually, after a major… ( read more )

Your Roof: Fire Resistance and Fire Ratings Explained

June 15, 2021

Every summer sees its share of devastating wildfires threatening or consuming residential developments. But, if there’s any glimmer of hope from these tragedies, building science is developing better fire-safe ways to build homes. In particular, scientists have devoted effort to keep burning embers from entering homes through air vents, soffits, and walls. And, of course,… ( read more )