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Benefits of Slate Roofing

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Mario’s Roofing provides homeowners with other roofing options outside of asphalt. From rubber and metal to slate roofing, we suggest that homeowners explore all the ways they can remodel there home. Today, we want to go into detail and educate our customers with some of the benefits of slate roofing. What is it? Why is it special? Read below to learn more!

Main Benefits From Having a Slate Roof

The Unique Appearance: One of the main reasons that so many homeowners are drawn to slate roofs is the beauty. There is no other roofing material on the market that has the ability to class up a house like slate. Explore all the sizes and colors that you can use for your slate roofing installation.

Lifespan: The average asphalt roof needs to be replaced every 20 – 30 years. Slate roofs are built to last a century! In fact, you can reasonably expect for your roof to last up to 150 years.

Eco-Friendly: Roofing waste accounts for nearly 5 percent of all waste that gets put into landfills. With a majority of the waste being thrown into landfills is asphalt, slate is a more eco-friendly choice.

Fire Resistance: While many roofs do a good job against fire, slate is the most fire-resistant option out of all of them. Slate, being a type of rock is actually completely fireproof. There are extra things like this that add another level of protection for your family.

Contact Mario’s Roofing to learn more about how slate roofing can help transform your home. For more information, please feel free to reach out. We can be contacted over the phone at (781) 344-2420 or through our online contact form.

 

Common Reasons Why Roofs Fail

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The bottom line is that every roof that a house has will eventually fail and need to be replaced. However, many roofs fail far earlier than others and there are reasons for that. If you’re wondering why your roof hasn’t lasted as long as your neighbors and they were installed at a similar time explore below:

1. Faulty Installation 

If you’re paying an inexperienced company to save a couple bucks, we hope you understand the serious risk that you are taking. There are bound to be mistakes made during the installations process causing your roof to falter after some period of time.

2. Neglect

Proper maintenance on all facets of your home will ensure that they last for as long as possible. If you don’t take care of your roof it will fail. That means making timely repairs when needed, cleaning your gutters and removing debris and branches that accumulate on your roof.

3. Lacking Ventilation

Adequate ventilation in your roof allows your roof and attic area to stay at a reasonable temperature. With improper ventilation, the temperature can warp and damage your roof over time. A trusted and skilled contractor will ensure that ventilation is set up properly during a roof install.

4. New England Weather

Living in New England, we all know that the weather can be harsh at times. This is one situation that you can do the least about. To reduce the chances of a snowstorm or thunderstorm from damaging your house, make sure you don’t have any branches hanging over your house. A tree limb can cause some serious damage to your roof.

Regular roof inspections, not holding off on roof repairs and making sure a skilled and trusted roofing company similar to Mario’s Roofing is working on your house will all ensure that your roof lasts as long as it can. This will save you money in the long run and will reduce the amount of stress in your life.

For more information about our services, please feel free to reach out. Mario’s Roofing can be contacted over the phone at (781) 344-2420 or through our online contact form.

How Can Hail Affect Roofing Shingles?

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Hail isn’t the most common thing in the North East but when it happens, it’s a sight to see! For a homeowner, after you dodge falling hail, you need to understand that hail can damage your home and in particular, your roof’s shingles.

Hail damage isn’t always noticeable which can be extremely frustrating. It can cause latent damage which over time can result in your shingles to prematurely damage. Without visual damage, there is no real way to tell how much damage has occurred.

In other instances, you can tell if your roof has been damaged because of hail. Damage can be seen as indents on your roof or shingles breaking apart.

Most Common Types of Roof Damage: 

Loss of Granules: Parts of the roof that get hit by hail can see the individual granules start to fall off the shingles.

Cracks: Points of impact may radiate the shingles outward and cracks can be even more noticeable if high winds blow shingles back.

Exposed Fiberglass Mat: When hail shatters an asphalt roof, it could cause it to break away from the fiberglass mat.

Fractured Fiberglass Mat: Similar to exposing the fiberglass matt and creating cracks in the shingles, but the underlayer of fiberglass mat can also break apart due to hail damage.

The quality of roofing install and the level of shingles that are protecting your house both directly impact how any roof handles nature day in and day out. Whether you want to protect your house against hail or are looking for repairs or a replacement, be sure to work with a trusted company.

Within 2017, there was only 1 hail report around the Boston area but it was one that caused damage.

For more information about how hail could have damaged your roof or to talk with us about roofing repairs or replacements, we can be contacted over the phone at 781-344-2420 or through our online contact form.

Why Summer is the Best Time to Install Replacement Windows

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It seems obvious that window replacement should be done during the warmer months. Homes are open to the outside air, and a bulk of the work will be performed outside. In those conditions, houses will maintain a more comfortable temperature if window replacement is performed in the summer. However, there are other reasons that make summer the best time to install replacement windows. Read on to find out more.

Caulking adheres better in the warmer weather than in the cold: Ideally, caulking should be applied when the temperature ranges from 40 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. If this is not the case, silicone may be used to apply it, but you will need to warm the caulk before applying so it will flow smoothly and evenly. If you are hiring a contractor, all this can add to time and labor costs.

Movement of substrate: Certain materials that are used in window replacement, like vinyl and aluminum, expand in warmer weather and contract in the cold. If caulk is applied to windows when the weather is cold, it could crack and split when the materials expand as temperatures increase.

Keeps Heating Bills Low: If you replace windows during the winter, and allow cold air into your house, it will make your heater work harder, driving up your heating bill.

If you do need window replacement done in the winter, do your best to try and schedule work to be done on a relatively warm day. Try to make sure your contractor is using silicone-based caulking and encourage them to use a sealant with high joint movement capability. This will help with performance as the weather gets cold.

Replacing windows during the summer is a good choice for maintaining comfort in your household and getting the most out of your installation. Aim for this season when you are thinking about window replacement. Here’s to great new windows that provide an updated appearance to your home!

Mario’s Roofing Registered the Most SureStart PLUS Warranty Jobs in 2017!

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Mario’s Roofing is happy to receive some great news from CertainTeed!

Out of all the companies in Massachusetts, we registered the most SureStart PLUS warranty jobs. We also registered the 26th highest amount in North America!

SureStart PLUS™ Coverage Details

In order to qualify for SureStart PLUS extended warranty coverage, the roof system must be installed by a contractor with an up-to-date ShingleMaster™ or SELECT ShingleMaster™ credentials

It’s important that our customers get the warranty they deserve. We are proud to have such a skilled and experienced team that installs the best asphalt roofing in the area!

Click here to learn more about this accomplishment.

Advantages of Fiber Cement Siding

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At Mario’s Roofing, we work with James Hardie for all fiber cement siding projects and customers LOVE IT! James Hardie is the leader in the fiber cement siding industry, but so many people are uneducated about the material as a whole. So… what is fiber cement and what are the advantages of choosing it?

Fiber cement siding is a wonderful alternative to traditional siding, and it’s a great replacement option for siding that is seriously weather-beaten. This kind of siding is applied to the exterior of your home, just like conventional siding. There are a wide range of colors to choose from and a number of styles. The shingles are mostly made from sand, cement, and wood fiber, and sometimes even recycled wood fiber. What you get is an incredibly durable material that can withstand the elements.

Durability: 

Fiber cement costs more than vinyl, but it’s still more affordable than cedar wood. It’s also seriously going to outlast the competition. It puts up a great defense against rain, wind, insects, and even fire. Not only is it durable, but it’s also recommended for all climates. Did you know that no matter how wet it gets, fiber cement siding will never rot? It’s also termite-resistant.

Maintenance Free: 

Thanks to this durability, fiber cement siding lowers your maintenance costs. It’s also a material that does not harm the environment, even though it cannot be recycled. Homeowners are just now opening their eyes to the benefits of fiber cement. But this material has actually been around for almost 100 years or more!

Visual Options: 

The most popular form of fiber cement planks that you’ll find today are either wood-grained or come with a smooth finish. They also come in widths of 4 to 12 inches. Because there is so much variety, it’s possible to match the current siding on your home when building an addition. You can also replace patches of your current siding without noticing the difference. It’s possible to find wall panels with vertical grooves and soffit panels.

Painting Options:

You can choose to either prime and paint your siding on the building site, or it can be done at a factory. That being said, factory-primed and painted siding comes with a warranty of up to 25 years, so that’s a huge bonus. If you’re doing the priming and painting yourself, manufacturers will ask you to use an alkaline-resistant primer, as well as a 100% acrylic top coat.

Another great thing about fiber cement is that you can change the color at a later date. Be sure to choose a water-based acrylic paint. You’re going to find that fiber cement does not contract or expand as much as wood siding, and that means that the paint is just going to endure longer. Lastly, fiber cement is available in a number of different home improvement centers and lumberyards. James Hardie is a great manufacturer to start with.

Angie's List Service Award

Angies List Super Service Award

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Mario’s Roofing is happy to announce that we have been awarded the 2017 Angie’s list Super Service Award. Customer service, high-quality results and a long lasting product are extremely important in our eyes! Achieving this award from Angie’s List provides additional confirmation that offer the high level of service that we strive for.

5 Must-Ask Questions for Your Roofing Contractor

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With home remodeling contractors, specifically roofing, you should make sure that you do your homework. Before going ahead and picking someone, try and ask them these questions.

Do You Have Experience?

Okay, let’s start out with the essential question. Do you know what the heck you’re doing? You want to be guaranteed that the person working on your roof has knowledge, expertise, and certifications. A roofing contractor needs to be diverse in their skills, able to replace, repair, and maintain things. If the contractor is not experienced in what they do, then you simply need to look elsewhere.

Are You Local?

It can’t be emphasized enough how important it is to find someone who is a local contractor. They know your area, they know the weather, and they have a solid track record. Finding a local isn’t that hard. You can ask around and see who everyone else trusts their roof to, and you can also check through the Better Business Bureau. When you find a roofing contractor that is established in your area, then you can be guaranteed that they’re going to provide the highest quality work.

Do You Have a Presence Online?

These days, it’s essential that your roofing contractor have a website. Why is that? You want to be able to read reviews. By asking the contractor if they have a social media stamp, or even just reviews on home advisor sites or consumer review sites, you’re taking matters into your own hands and learning the truth. Be weary of contractors that have absolutely no online presence.

Are You Certified?

It’s a simple question, but you’d be surprised how many contractors are actually not certified. Be sure to find a roofing contractor who has the necessary credentials to get the job done, and that they’re able to handle the size and scope of your project. Find out what licenses they have, insurance, permits, etc. Also check for GAF Master Elite certification and Green Roofer certification.

How Long is My Roof Warranty?

This is one of the most important questions that you can ask your contractor. There are usually two kinds of coverage on your roof. One part covers errors in workmanship and the other covers materials. Know the length of these warranties, and the extent.

How to Tell if I Need New Windows

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Windows undoubtedly transform your home in several ways, but all too often, homeowners don’t recognize when they need new windows. While windows allow natural light into the home, they also boost curb appeal and they improve energy-efficiency. However, older windows can make your home drafty which can easily increase your energy bill.

Let’s explore some signs that your home needs new windows:

  1. Energy Bills

If you notice your energy bills have been consistently higher, this could indicate that your windows aren’t doing their job. If you stand near the window on a cold day, does it feel much cooler than the rest of the home? If so, consider replacing your windows.

Another way to test out your windows is by placing a candle near a closed window and if the candle flickers or the smoke moves, this most likely means a draft is coming through.

  1. Difficulty Opening the Window

When your windows are consistently difficult to open, it’s absolutely time to have them replaced. Not only is this a major fire hazard but it’s incredibly challenging to let fresh air into your home. A sealed window could be due to the paint job, warped frame, or a shift in your home’s foundation.

  1. Condensation

One of the biggest signs that it’s time for a new window is when condensation begins to form. If you notice ice in the window even when it’s shut and locked, consider purchasing new windows. Mold will most likely grow which will rot the window frame.

  1. Outside Noise is Much Louder

There’s nothing more frustrating than hearing traffic at all hours of the day, your neighbor’s dog barking, or any other outside commotion. If these sounds appear as if they’re directly in your home, this is a clear indication that your windows are poorly insulated. Again, this will lead to an increase in energy bills.

  1. Outdated & Unappealing

Although your windows could be functioning properly, an outdated window is quite unattractive. If you’ve recently updated your home or you have a beautiful exterior, you may want to upgrade your windows to match the aesthetics.

Contact Mario’s Roofing for Energy-Efficient Windows

The team at Mario’s Roofing has years of experience providing homeowners with new energy-efficient windows. With our expertise and guidance, we’ll provide you with new windows without going over your budget. If you’re ready for new windows, give us a call at 781.344.2420.

Ice Dam on Home

How do I prevent Ice dams?

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Ice dams can be devastating for your roofing system. They occur when some portions of your roof are above thirty-two degrees Fahrenheit and other portions are below that temperature.

As snow that is on the portions of the roof above freezing melts, it flows down onto the colder parts of the roof and refreezes into ledges of ice at the edge of the roof. Though these ledges are quite beautiful, they can cause a real problem.

The water caught behind these dams remains right where it is, unable to flow off the roof. It can then seep into your attic spaces or into your walls under the siding. So, how do you, as a homeowner prevent this icy disaster? By the time you have finished reading this blog post, you will know exactly what to do.

Freeze Your Roof

Ice dams occur when a part of your roof is above freezing while the rest is below. This usually happens because heat rises up into your attic, warming the roof shingles above.

This warming causes the snow to melt and run down the roof before refreezing at the edge. Therefore it’s necessary to keep your roof and attic cold. But how do you do that?

The first step is to close all the attic bypasses. A third of the heat lost from a house is through the ceiling into the attic. Close up any gaps in the drywall. Stop up any cracks around light fixtures or windows, and make sure your walls, ceilings and roofs are properly insulated. Doing all these things has a bonus, too. By stopping ice dams, you also will lower your heating and cooling bills.

Insulate the Attic

Check the levels of attic insulation. Building codes say it should be twelve to fourteen inches deep. However, if it is less than eight inches deep and you’ve had ice dam issues, you need to apply more to reach building code specifications. Blown-in fiberglass or cellulose is better than that which you place by hand as it wraps more easily around joists and other attic obstructions. Also, you won’t save very much money by doing this yourself. It’s definitely time to call in a professional.

Ventilate The Attic

Adding roof and soffit vents can actually cool your attic and roof. They do this by pulling in cold outdoor air. This air expels the less dense warm attic air. This displacement of heat also cools the attic and the roof in the process, which keeps ice dams from forming and condensation from damaging your roof’s decking.

Conclusion

Ice dams can cause a lot of damage, wasted money and problems for you. That is why it is necessary to prevent them. You stop ice dams in their tracks by keeping the roof cold. This will keep the snow from melting and refreezing in the first place. If your roof has no ice dams, then it is a truly beautiful winter.