In the United States, four out of five homes are covered with asphalt shingles. These shingles are
beautiful, affordable and reliable, and are constantly raising the bar in protecting your most
valuable asset.
What is Cool Roofing?
“Coolness” is measured by two properties, solar reflectance (SR, or reflectivity) and thermal
emittance (emissivity), or a combination of the two, called the Solar Reflectance Index (SRI). Cool
roofs can also be referred to as “highly reflective roofs” and “high albedo roofs.” A cool roof
reflects and emits the sun’s heat back to the sky rather than transferring it to the building below.
What are the benefits of Cool Roofing?
There is a great deal of information regarding cool roofing as an environmentally friendly choice.
Cool roofs are an energy efficient choice that can simultaneously reduce the impact of the “Heat
Island Effect,” which refers to a metropolitan area that is significantly warmer than its rural
surroundings.
Benefits include:
• Increased energy efficiency
• Improved comfort
• Reduced energy bill
• Reduced capital cost
• Longer roof life
• Reduced “Heat Island Effect”
The Energy Efficiency Discussion: Warmer climates, such as Southern California, New Mexico,
Texas, Arizona, and the South East Gulf States, where the heating days exceed the cooling days,
a cool roof will reduce the transfer of heat from the sun’s rays into your home or building by
reflecting the heat rays back into the atmosphere, thus causing your air conditioning system to
run less frequently.
The Heat Island Discussion: Cooler climates, such as Chicago, New York, Baltimore, and San
Francisco, the benefits of reflective roofing as a sound energy-efficient choice are specific to
the particular region and its climate.
• Many states are instituting building code changes to require roof systems to be energy
efficient.
• There are many rebate programs available in the market place. To learn about potential
energy efficiency rebates in your state please visit: http://www.dsireusa.org
What does ARMA believe about Cool Roofs?
ARMA views roof surface reflectance as only one component of the approach as an appropriate
regulatory policy and design principle for energy conservation, mitigation of urban heat islands,
and improved air quality. The “Whole Building Envelope” approach is the best option for
designing and optimizing performance-based, proven and cost effective commercial and
residential buildings. It allows flexibility and consumer choice in the selection of roof systems.
What options are available to make my steep-sloped asphaltic roof more
energy-efficient?
• Asphalt Shingle with Cool Granule Technology
With the new roofing granule technology, these shingles reflect solar energy and radiate heat far
better than traditional roofing shingles. Visit CRRC and Energy Star for more information.
• Proper Attic Ventilation
Attic ventilation is green. A balanced ventilation system requires no energy to run and can help
reduce bills and damage to your home. Be sure to ask your contractor about proper ventilation
before sealing your attic structure.
• Added Insulation
By adding roof insulation to your home, you will be able to save money because your furnace
will no longer have to run as often, keeping your energy bills low. Although you may already
have installed attic insulation, it doesn’t hurt to occasionally inspect this area. Or, try a
combination of them. However, ARMA highly discourages the uses of a field-applied coating over
an asphalt shingle roof.
What options are available to make my low-slope residential asphalt roof more
energy efficient?
Choose the asphalt roofing system you like and consider the following:
• Factory surfacing with reflective performance (e.g., adding granulated cap sheets)
• The insulation factor:
o Increased insulation
o Ballasted system affording extra protection
• Reflective coatings over some non-reflective low-slope membranes, such as a built-up roof or fieldapplied bitumen rolled product
• Vegetative or garden roofs may also help meet energy-efficient building codes; however, it is rare to
find these in residential re-roofing due to the cost and potential maintenance aspects of the system
o These systems often have special considerations so be sure to contact the manufacturer
Tag Archive for: Flat Roofing in Chicago
Why is the color of a roof so important?
Asphalt roofing systems provide homeowners with years of beautiful, affordable and reliable protection.
Choosing the right roof color is critical because it is a decision that most homeowners will only make once,
and one that will have a lasting impact on the value of a home.
So how do manufacturers create different color blends for asphalt shingles? The secret lies in the Science of
Color.
How are asphalt shingle colors created?
Asphalt roofing manufacturers use consultants who are experts on current design trends to help
formulate color blends. Unlike other roofing materials, asphalt shingles are composed of multicolored granules which create a wide palate of choices, including different colors, styles and
designs. The granules are produced from durable igneous rock which has been coated with a clay
silicate mixture for color. Before application, they are coated with a highly-durable ceramic and
surface treated for improved long term adhesion.
Finished granules on asphalt shingles
create a unique, visual appeal to
coordinate with virtually any home
design. Along with color options,
granules also provide shingles with:
• UV protection
• Durability
• Longevity
Are there any trends in asphalt roofing color?
Consumers have literally hundreds of different color combinations to choose from. Asphalt
shingle roofing can be used to match a wide variety of exterior styles and neighborhood looks.
Some design trends include:
• Deep, strong colors are being used on home
exteriors. When the body color of the house is
strong, a neutral roof color will allow the body
color to showcase a home.
• Architects and designers are increasingly
making use of dark body colors. Instead of a beige
color, consider darker roof colors that harmonize
with deep blues, greens and browns for a quiet
drama that adds stability.
• Roof colors should be simple and neutral when
two or more body colors are combined, with
varied trim colors.
Remember, combining trendy colors with conventional choices
on a home’s exterior ensures that the design will have balance
and remain appealing for the life of the roof.
What is the best way to choose a
color?
Choose an asphalt shingle which provides a
color and design that matches a home’s
neighborhood. Take the time to do research
and find the shingle color that works best.
Homeowners have a variety of resources to
assist them:
• Request to see multiple shingle color
options from a roofing contractor;
• Consult with a roofing manufacturer to
review different sample boards;
• Utilize online design tools to visualize how
an asphalt roof would look once installed.
Stages of Asphalt Shingle Deterioration
Introduction
The lifespan of asphalt shingles depends on the type you choose, the manufacturer, and where you live. Some shingles last longer than others; for example, those made with a higher percentage of granules tend to last longer than those made with fewer granules. The first thing to do when trying to determine whether your roof has reached its end-of-life is take a look at it yourself or hire someone who knows how to inspect roofs professionally. If you’re not sure what signs of wear and tear mean that it’s time for replacement—or if your roofer isn’t telling you—then read on!
Aging
As asphalt shingles age, the effects of weather can become more pronounced. The shingles will become discolored and may develop cracks or ripples. The granules that comprise your roof’s surface may also begin to separate from the asphalt backing as they come apart over time.
The lifespan of a typical residential asphalt shingle is about 20 years, but this is dependent on many factors: where you live, how heavily it rains in your area and what kind of environment you have around your house (e.g., trees, other buildings). Shingles typically deteriorate faster in areas with heavy rainfall due to their exposure to moisture and sunlight—especially if they’re not covered by other structures like roofs or eaves.
Loss of mineral granules
Asphalt shingles are covered with a layer of mineral granules that give them their color. These tiny rocks are made of natural resources like quartz or feldspar, and can be washed away by rainwater or sun rays. When this happens, the shingles lose their appearance and color, leaving only the asphalt underneath.
Cracking and cupping
When asphalt shingles crack and cup, it’s an indication of their age. Cracking is normal, but if the cracks are too large or have spidered out to cover a large portion of the roof, it needs to be fixed before water can get in. Cupping is caused by uneven exposure to weather, which can result in problems like mold growth or algae growth.
Some roofers believe that cracking and cupping are not an immediate threat to your roof; others believe that they are causes for concern because they allow moisture into the attic space where it could damage other components of your home (such as insulation).
Blistering and splitting
Asphalt shingles are prone to splitting and blistering, both caused by different factors. Blistering occurs when water gets trapped under the shingle during installation or precipitation events. Splitting is caused by temperature changes that cause the asphalt in your roof to expand and contract, which causes it to crack.
The best way to prevent these issues is by making sure you apply enough granular material at the time of installation and by choosing a high-quality brand of asphalt shingle that has been properly designed for your climate zone. If you’ve already discovered this problem on one section of your roof, then calling a professional contractor can help fix it before it spreads across other areas as well
Curling and buckling
Buckling shingles can occur when the shingle is exposed to heat. This can be caused by improper ventilation, improper installation or poor quality asphalt.
Incorrect ventilation causes buckling by locking moisture in between the shingles and preventing it from drying out properly. If your roof does not have proper ventilation, this may cause buckling to occur sooner than expected.
Algae growth
Algae growth is also a common problem, especially in coastal areas. While algae can be removed by scrubbing the shingles with a stiff brush and bleach, preventing algae growth will save you time and money in the long run. One way to prevent algae from growing is by keeping your roof clean. You should clean your roof every three months with a pressure washer.
Older shingles are more susceptible to damage than newer ones.
The age of your roof is a factor in whether or not you will experience damage. Shingles are made from asphalt and mineral granules, which are bound together by resins. Asphalt gets brittle with age, while the minerals break down. This aging process is accelerated in high heat and humidity, so if your house has been sitting in the sun for years on end, it’s likely that its shingles need to be replaced before they become dangerous to walk on.
Conclusion
Asphalt shingles are a popular choice for residential roofs, and they can last a long time if they’re properly installed and maintained. But as weather conditions change, so do the needs of your roof. If you have older asphalt shingles that need replacing or repairing, don’t hesitate to call us at 773-251-9422 for an estimate.
Quincy Sizemore
Third Coast Exteriors
Owner
CertainTeed Asphalt Shingles
Introduction
CertainTeed shingles are some of the most popular roofing materials on the market today. We offer a wide range of CertainTeed shingles to fit any homeowner’s needs.
CertainTeed Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are made from asphalt and are available in a range of styles, including:
- Architectural shingles
- Architectural slate
- Decorative cedar shakes
CertainTeed shingles also come with a limited lifetime warranty. This means that if you’re not satisfied with your roof, CertainTeed will pay for the cost of replacing it—no questions asked.
Dimensional (Architectural) Shingles
Dimensional (architectural) shingles are a popular choice for roofing because they’re available in many styles, colors and textures.
Dimensional shingles come in several different styles:
- Smooth
- Tabbed
- Weathered Wood® Shingle (wood shakes)
Designer Shingles
Designer shingles are the most popular type of asphalt shingle on the market. They come in a wide range of colors and styles, from traditional wood-look to exotic finishes like slate or stone. Plus, they have a textured finish that looks like natural wood shake siding so they’re less likely to blow off during high winds. Designer shingles are available in a variety of sizes (see chart below) and all the materials used in their production meet CertainTeed’s stringent quality standards.
- Shingle Style: Wood Look (6″ and 8″)
- Shingle Color: Charcoal Gray
- Shingle Size: 6″ x 24″; 8″ x 36″
3-Tab Shingles and High-Performance 3-Tab Shingles
If you’re looking for good quality and durability in an asphalt shingle, then CertainTeed’s 3-Tab shingles are a great option. The company has been producing these shingles since their inception in the 1930s and they have proven themselves to be durable and reliable throughout the years. They still remain one of the most popular types of shingle on today’s market.
High-Performance 3-Tab Shingles are a newer version of standard 3-Tab shingles that provide enhanced performance with higher levels of reflectivity to help keep your home cooler by reflecting sunlight off your roof instead of absorbing it like traditional asphalt shingles. These high quality products are backed by CertainTeed’s Lifetime limited warranty against cracking, peeling, splitting or curling; free from defects caused by manufacturing errors; free from defects caused by poor installation practices; free from manufacturing defects which cause premature failure within 30 years (when installed properly); protection against wind uplift at 130 mph sustained winds (at 60 pounds per square foot); 100% waterproof under all conditions including freezing temperatures down to -20 degrees Fahrenheit (-28 degrees Celsius).
We offer a range of CertainTeed shingles for your home.
CertainTeed’s recycled asphalt shingles are available in a wide range of styles, colors and sizes. CertainTeed’s three-tab shingles come in black, grey, tan and mocha. CertainTeed’s architectural shingles come in single-color or dual color selections that include black, grey and tan. All CertainTeed shingles are made from 100% virgin material with no added fillers or binders to provide you with more durability and energy efficiency for your home.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a new roof, we have the shingles for you. Our team of experts can help determine which type of shingle is right for your home and provide installation services as well. With all the different styles and types available from CertainTeed, there’s sure to be something that fits your needs perfectly!
Quincy Sizemore
Third Coast Exteriors
Owner
Roofing Contractor
Introduction
We at Third Coast Exteriors take pride in being a full-service roofing contractor and will be happy to help with any residential and commercial roofing projects you may have. We are so confident in our workmanship that we provide material & labor warranties on all roofing services. Our roofers are professionals and know your roof is an integral part of the structure of your home or business, therefore we believe a well-constructed, long-lasting roof is worth investing in because it will save you money in the long run.
We pride ourselves in being a full-service roofing contractor and will be happy to help with any residential and commercial roofing projects you may have.
From a small repair to a complete roof replacement, our expert staff will be happy to help with any residential or commercial roofing projects you may have.
Roofing is an integral part of the structure of your home or business. A well constructed roof will save money in the long run by protecting your investment from weather damage and extend its life significantly.
We pride ourselves on being a full service roofing contractor and can complete your project quickly and efficiently – call us today!
We are so confident in our workmanship that we provide a material and labor warranties on all roofing services.
We are so confident in our workmanship that we provide material and labor on all roofing services. This warranty applies only to the original purchaser of the service. It does not cover damage caused by storms or other natural disasters.
Third Coast Exteriors is a trusted Chicago roofing contractor helping homeowners and property managers with their residential & commercial roofing needs including replacement, maintenance, repairs, and more.
We have been in business for over 2 years and are a full service roofing contractor. We provide complete roofing services for residential and commercial properties. With our extensive experience, we understand that it is important to offer the highest quality products backed by warranties for each of your projects. We also keep up with all of the latest technologies in order to make sure you receive the best possible value at every step of your project.
We are licensed, bonded, insured and member of the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
Whether you are looking for a new roof to be installed or have suffered weather damage from one of Chicago’s notorious storms, we can complete your project quickly and efficiently.
Whether you are looking for a new roof to be installed or have suffered weather damage from one of Chicago’s notorious storms, we can complete your project quickly and efficiently. We are a full-service roofing contractor that offers both residential and commercial roofing services. Our team is well versed in new construction and repairs. Our goal is to provide our customers with high quality workmanship at reasonable rates so that they receive the best value for their money.
One of the most important things about having anything done on your home or business is trusting the people who are doing it; whether it’s painting, installing new windows, or having someone fix your plumbing issue; if you trust them then they will do a good job because they want you as their customer again! At Third Coast Exteriors we pride ourselves on our professionalism and integrity so call us today!
Third Coast Exteriors offers a wide range of roofing services including residential and commercial roofing installation and repair. We are licensed, bonded and insured in the state of Illinois. Our team has an average of 15 years experience in the roofing industry.
We are dedicated to providing our customers with the best possible service and quality workmanship at reasonable rates. One of the most important things about having anything done on your home or business is trusting the people who are doing it; whether it’s painting, installing new windows, or having someone fix your plumbing issue; if you trust them then they will do a good job because they want you as their customer again! At Third Coast Exteriors we pride ourselves on our professionalism and integrity so call us today!
Our mission is to deliver top quality workmanship at fair prices for all our clients and we stand by our workmanship 100%.
Our mission is to deliver top quality workmanship at fair prices for all our clients and we stand by our workmanship 100%. We have been in business for over 2 years, and have a strong history of providing quality workmanship.
We are committed to the goal of having satisfied customers who will recommend us to their friends or family members. Our professional tradesmen are dedicated to providing you with the best possible service at all times.
Call us today if you need an honest Chicago Roofing Contractor!
For the best Chicago roofing contractor, call us today. We are a full-service roofing contractor and offer a ten-year labor warranty on all of our services. Our prices are competitive and we provide excellent customer service. If you need an honest Chicago Roofing Contractor, call us today!
Conclusion
We hope you enjoyed learning about our services, and we look forward to talking with you soon. End the search for roofing near me! To get started on your next project, call us today.
Flat Roofing in Chicago
Introduction
When you’re ready to install a flat roof in Chicago, there are many things to consider. This guide will help you learn about the different types of flat roofing materials so that you can find one that’s right for your needs.
Flat roofing is durable and can last for an average of 15 years.
Flat roofing is durable and can last for an average of 15 years. It’s less likely to leak than a pitched roof, which means you won’t have to worry about water damage in your home or building. Flat roofs are also more energy efficient than pitched roofs because they don’t extend out away from the walls to catch wind or rain, so there’s no room for heat loss (or gain). If your property has a flat roof, consider all these benefits when deciding whether it needs repairs, replacements or maintenance work every year—or if you’re just looking for ways to extend the life of what you’ve got!
Flat roofing typically needs to be replaced before a pitched roof.
Flat roofs are typically much harder to access than pitched roofs. This makes them more susceptible to damage and leaks, which can result in water damage and mold growth. Flat roofs are also more expensive than pitched roofs because they require more maintenance and replacement.
A flat roof requires regular maintenance to thrive.
A flat roof requires regular maintenance to thrive. This includes keeping it clean and checking for leaks, repairing any leaks you find, inspecting for signs of wear and tear, and making sure the roof is properly insulated.
If you don’t maintain your flat roof correctly, then it won’t last as long as it should. The good news is that there are some simple steps you can take to ensure that your flat roof lasts as long as possible.
Main flat roofing types are TPO, EPDM, BUR, and PVC.
- TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin) is a flexible, thermoplastic material.
- EPDM (ethylene-propylene-diene monomer) is a flexible, rubber-like material.
- BUR (built up roofing) is a rigid, mineral-based material that’s made from layers of single ply sheets with sand or gravel added as an aggregate between each layer to create more chip resistance.
- PVC (polyvinyl chloride) is a rigid plastic sheet that can be used on flat roofs and can include insulation in its design to keep heat in during winter months and reduce energy costs by blocking UV rays from reaching your home during summer months.
TPO is ideal for larger commercial buildings.
If you have a large commercial building with a flat roof, TPO is ideal for your needs. TPO is a synthetic rubber membrane that’s flexible and durable, making it an easy choice for commercial buildings where there are different activities taking place on the roof such as machinery or vehicles.
Additionally, because TPO can be applied over existing roofing material, it is often chosen by property owners who don’t want to replace their current roofs but do want to improve their building’s energy efficiency and performance. The membrane can withstand extreme weather conditions such as heavy snowfall or high winds which makes it ideal for commercial buildings located in areas that experience extreme weather conditions during winter months like Chicago does!
EPDM is suitable for smaller commercial and residential buildings in Chicago.
EPDM is a synthetic rubber that is flexible and resistant to UV rays. It is a good choice for flat roofs in Chicago because it has high resistance to puncture, tear, abrasion, and impact from hail and falling debris. EPDM also has excellent resistance to chipping, cracking or peeling due to aging or weathering.
EPDM is used on residential and commercial buildings in Chicago because it has low outgassing levels that are not harmful to humans or the environment. Its physical properties make it highly resistant against fire damage as well as water seepage caused by ice dams during winter months when temperature fluctuates greatly between day time highs (60s) and night time lows (-10s).
BUR is made of hot tar (bitumen) and gravel or mineral granules and it’s used on commercial buildings in Chicago.
BUR is made of hot tar (bitumen) and gravel or mineral granules, and it’s used on commercial buildings in Chicago. BUR is used on flat roofs that are less than 50 feet wide, or less than 6 inches deep.
PVC is made from sheets of vinyl plastic, which is chemical-resistant and waterproof making it ideal for chemical storage rooms where other materials might not stand up to the exposure to toxic chemicals.
PVC is a good choice for chemical storage rooms. It’s resistant to chemicals and water, making it ideal for chemical storage rooms where other materials might not stand up to the exposure to toxic chemicals. PVC is also an affordable option, which means you’ll save money in the long run by choosing PVC over other types of roofing material like metal or wood. You can have your PVC flat roof installed quickly and easily with minimal disruption to your home or business while also maintaining its appearance with little effort on your part.
Choosing the right material can help maximize durability and longevity.
If you’re thinking about getting a new roof, you’ll need to consider a few different factors. One of the most important decisions to make when buying a new roof is whether you want it to be made from TPO rubberized roofing membrane or EPDM rubberized roofing membrane. Both are made with high-quality materials that can last for 20–30 years and withstand even the harshest Chicago winters.
The other option you have for your flat roof is BUR (built-up), which is usually composed of hot tar and gravel or mineral granules.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for flat roofing in Chicago, there are many options to choose from. It all depends on what kind of building you have, what type of material you want, and if it needs to withstand certain climates (rainy winters). For example, if your house is older with no insulation underneath the shingles then maybe it would be worth investing in some new ones since they might not last as long as expected. On the other hand if your business has a small warehouse where water or chemicals may leak onto it regularly then choosing PVC could be a better option because it won’t corrode from these harsh conditions.
Quincy Sizemore
Third Coast Exteriors
Owner
Tag Archive for: Flat Roofing in Chicago
Interesting Info
For many years, Third Coast Exteriors has counted on roofing, siding, and masonry installation, repair, replacement, and maintenance services. We are a state-licensed contractor and have the unique ability to work on any type of residential and commercial project.
Offices
Oak Park, IL
Monee, IL
Schererville, IN
Gurnee. IL
Chicago, IL
Opening Hours
Mon-Fri: 24 hrs
Sat: 24 hrs
Sun: Closed