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May '20

What Type of Siding Should You Choose for Your House?

Finding the Best Option

If you want to improve the exterior appearance of your home, there is no better way than to install new siding. The right siding will make your home stand out, look newer, and protect it from the elements. It can also be a huge time-saver if you’re upgrading to maintenance-free materials. But how do you make the right choice for your home? How do you choose materials that are both attractive and of the highest quality while still fitting within your budget? Here are some tips that will help you out:

What is Your Goal?

To determine which type of siding you should choose, you first need to identify your reason for getting new siding. Do you want to go low-maintenance so you no longer have to worry about painting or staining the exterior of your home? Do you want extremely durable materials that will last for decades? Is your budget the largest concern?

If cost is at the top of your list, wood and vinyl are the options that carry the lowest costs. However, while vinyl continues to save you money with its low-maintenance aspects, wood will not. While wood carries a smaller up-front cost, you will be spending money down the road on repairs and maintenance. Vinyl, while not as durable as some other materials, is usually the best choice for those on a fixed budget.

If durability and low-maintenance are your first concerns, you may want to look into steel or fiber cement. Both of these have a higher up-front cost (fiber cement is at the highest end of the cost spectrum), but both require little to no maintenance, are very durable, and will not have to be replaced for decades.

What Look Are You Trying to Achieve?

Siding is just as much about appearance as it is about protecting your home. Different types of siding not only look different, but they also offer varying levels of customization. Are you the type who wants your home to blend in with the neighbors or do you seek to stand out?

If you’re the type of home owner who wants a lot of options when it comes to customization, vinyl and wood are usually the best options. These types of siding come in hundreds of color choices and, in the case of vinyl, in many different textures. On the other hand, fiber cement and steel come in a more limited range of colors.

What Are Your Future Plans and Where Do You Live?

The final considerations when you’re choosing siding for your home are where you live and what you plan to do with your home in the future. Here in the Midwest, our cold climate can cause wood siding to expand and crack, which means extra maintenance. Vinyl holds up better, but can still be affected by very cold temperatures. As you know, we also get hot weather here as well as cold, and the heat can also do a number on both vinyl and wood siding. If you’re looking for the best choice to stand up to the cold and the heat, steel and fiber cement are at the top of the list.

Now think about the future. Do you plan to live in your current home for the rest of your life? If so, feel free to choose a custom color or texture that may not appeal to the masses. If you think you’ll get tired of it, choose a lower-cost vinyl option with the plan to re-do it in a decade or so when you get tired of it. If selling your home is on the agenda, though, you need to think a little differently. Choose a color of siding that will appeal to the most people (think neutrals) and fit in with the rest of the neighborhood. If you plan to sell in the next couple of years, vinyl will likely still look great at that time without a big up-front cost. If selling your home likely won’t happen for at least 10 or more years, choose steel or fiber cement. These will hold their value and still add plenty of resale value even if you don’t plan to sell for a decade or more.

Still not sure which choice is for you? Contact one of our knowledgeable siding experts at Hometown Roofing. We’d be happy to walk you through the pros and cons of each option.

May '20

Roofing Estimates and Roofing Inspections: What’s the Difference?

And Which Do You Need?

Do you think you may have roof damage from a recent storm? Or do you know your roof is nearing the end of its life and you want to know how much it’s going to cost? If you’re in this position, you may wonder whether you need a roof estimate or a roof inspection. It makes sense that the difference between these services can be confusing. After all, they both involve someone taking a look at your roof and providing you with information about it. But the truth is, they are not the same thing and serve different purposes. Here are the differences and how to discover which is right for your situation.

What is a Roof Estimate?

There’s a reason why most roofing companies offer free estimates. They’re quick, they’re easy, and they usually are the precursor to getting a new roof installed. A roof estimate is basically a cost estimate on a roof replacement and is usually only requested by a homeowner if they intend to get a new roof. In some cases, the estimator will actually get onto your roof, but he’s not looking for problems. Instead, he’s just gathering information to accurately quote your project.

You can ask questions during the roof estimate process. Some common questions are whether or not you can just repair your roof instead of replacing it, if you can replace just parts of your roof, and the cost differences between roofing materials. Though you probably want to ask the estimator if they think you need a new roof or can put it off a few years, it’s likely they can’t answer that question accurately. Why? We’ll explore that in the next section.

What is a Roof Inspection?

So what’s a roof inspection? It’s a thorough examination of your roof and is meant to identify if there is damage or wear and tear that warrants repairs or a replacement. Inspections are typically not free of charge. They require roofing specialists to get on your roof and to do some close examination. Of course, no inspector can determine the extent of roof damage until they actually tear off a roof and see what’s underneath. However, they can look for common signs of roof damage such as missing or damaged shingles, water stains inside the house, and signs of mold and mildew.

To get back to our earlier question, those who perform an inspection can more accurately answer your question of if you need a new roof because they are trained to know the signs of a compromised roof.

When Do You Need an Estimate and When Do You Need an Inspection?

If you know you will need a new roof in the near future, you should get a roof estimate. This will provide you with the different options for your project and a projected cost. While you’re not obligated to go with the roofing company that provides the estimate, it’s generally understood that getting an estimate means you’re interested in purchasing a new roof.

Don’t be tempted to get a free estimate when you really need an inspection. An inspection is necessary after a big storm or when you notice signs of roof damage. As mentioned above, an estimator isn’t looking for damage — he’s simply estimating a cost.

To put it in simple terms, you need an inspection when you’re unsure about the condition of your roof and you need an estimate when you know your roof needs to be repaired or replaced. No matter which service is right for you, the knowledgeable professionals at Hometown Roofing can help! Call now for your inspection or an estimate.

Apr '20

Frequently Asked Roofing Questions

Roofing FAQs

As professionals in the roofing industry, the team at Hometown Roofing gets asked a lot of questions from Omaha-area homeowners. It’s likely that you have many of the same questions if you are considering a roof repair or replacement. Let us help out by answering a few of the most frequently asked questions when it comes to roofing. Don’t see your question listed below? Just shoot us a message and we’ll be happy to respond!

When does a roof need to be replaced?

There is no easy answer to this one. While most roofs last around 20 years, there are many different factors that can change this number including the type of roof installed, how well it was installed, the climate, and if there have been major storms that impacted the roof. Normally, when we determine if a roof needs to be replaced, we’ll take into account the age of the roof as well as if it has hail damage, if it has curling shingles, whether there are leaking seams or valleys, or if the shingles are losing granulation or there are missing shingles.

What is the purpose of a roof inspection?

Many people wonder why they need a roof inspection, especially if they don’t believe there is a problem with their roof. We suggest homeowners get regular inspections if their roof is nearing the end of its life and/or after any major storms. During an inspection, our experts will check the roof’s condition and determine if all the vital components are intact. We know how to spot problems before they become large issues and can often repair a roof that would otherwise need replaced if the damage was not spotted early.

What is a valley and why does it leak?

The roof valley is where the two slopes of the roof meet and this is a common area to look for when it comes to leaks. Debris can build up in this area, blocking water flow from the roof. When the water pools, it causes the roof to either leak or start rotting. Keeping your roof free of debris like leaves and branches will prevent valley leaks.

Will it damage my roof to wash it?

Some homeowners want to improve the appearance of their roofs by washing it with a chlorine bleach or a pressure washer. Both of these methods will damage your roof by causing the mineral surface to release from the shingles. When the mineral surface wears away, the base of the shingle will be exposed to direct sunlight and become brittle and the shingle will not be able to adhere to the roof as well. If you want your roof cleaned, it’s always a good idea to call a professional.

Does my roof need replaced if it’s leaking?

Leaks do not always mean you need a whole new roof. Depending on the size and location of the leak, a professional roofing contractor can often make repairs. There’s only one way to know for sure: get an inspection by a qualified roofing company. Small, repairable leaks can quickly turn into large leaks that cause extensive damage or necessitate a roof replacement, so call as soon as you spot a leak.

How long will my roof last?

Weather a homeowner has just gotten a new roof or has an aging roof, they often want to know how long they can expect it to last. While there is no definitive answer to this question, most roofs generally last around 20 years. As mentioned above, climate, storms, and the quality of the roof are all factors that can affect this normal timespan.

Why are my shingles discolored?

If you’ve noticed your shingles are no longer the color they were when they were installed, it usually means there’s a buildup of fungus, mold, or algae. To remove these substances, you can either use a commercial cleaner that is approved for roofing systems or call a professional who can clean it for you.

Have other questions we haven’t answered in this article? We’re always happy to talk! Just send us an email or give us a call with your roofing questions.

Apr '20

10 Questions to Ask Potential Roofing Contractors

Asking the Right Questions

Choosing a roofing contractor is an important decision. Not only does your choice affect the experience you have while the job is being done, but it also determines the quality and longevity of the finished project. To narrow down the list of contractors you consider for your job, look at online reviews and talk to others who have recently had their roofs replaced. Also consider vetting companies to see if they are locally owned and operated and how long they’ve been in business. Once you’ve done this, you should have a list of three to five contractors you’re interested in working with. The next step is the interview, which can usually be done over the phone. Not sure which questions to ask? Here are the 10 most important:

1. Who owns your business and for how long have they owned it?

It’s always a good idea to choose a company that has either been owned by the same person for a number of years or who is owned by a person trained by the original owner. A company that has changed hands multiple times in a short period could indicate a red flag.

2. Have you recently completed some jobs I could go see?

Driving by a few houses that the company has recently worked on can give you some good insight. Consider it a red flag if the contractor won’t give you this information.

3. Who will be on my roof?

Does the owner of the company get on the roof personally? Do they use their own employees or sub-contractors? Will you get to meet the actual people who will be completing the work before you hire the company?

4. What training and experience does your crew have?

Finding out if the crew has been trained by a manufacturer or gone through other training programs can help you decide which team is most qualified to perform the work.

5. Are there past customers I can talk to?

Asking those who have roofs replaced by the contractor about their experience is one of the best ways to determine their professionalism and level of customer service.

6. When can you perform my job?

Some contractors can get on your roof within a matter of days while others could be booked up for weeks or even months. Make sure your project won’t be put on the back burner.

7. How long will it take to put on my new roof?

Remember when you ask this question that the shortest amount of time is not always the best. However, it’s good to know what the estimate will be so you can compare it to the estimate of other contractors.

8. Do you have the required certifications and licensing as well as insurance and workers’ comp?

Feel free to ask for proof of these as any contractor who isn’t willing to show them to you should immediately be crossed off your list.

9. Is a building permit required for my project?

If so, how will you get one?

10. Who can I talk to if I have questions?

This is an important thing to ask, especially if the owner of the company or a manager won’t be on-site during your project.

Still not sure which company to choose after asking these questions? Here are some additional inquires that can help you arrive at a decision:

How will you access my roof?
How do you ensure the safety of your workers?
How are the materials that are torn off my roof to be handled?
Are you planning to put a dumpster or porta-potty on site?
What happens if we have bad weather?
Do you provide written warranties for materials or workmanship?
How do you plan to protect my property from damage?
What hours do you plan on working each day?
Do you have a plan to protect my home’s gutters?
Is there anything that could affect the contracted price and, if so, how will that be handled?

Choosing the right roofing contractor is not a decision that should be taken lightly. When you know what questions to ask, making a solid decision becomes much easier. For a free estimate from Hometown Roofing and to ask these important questions, please get in touch!

Apr '20

The Importance of Scheduling a Spring Inspection of Your Roof

bird's eye view of three houses

Winter has officially ended, and it’s likely it did a number on your roof. Though your roof may not have any obvious leaks or broken shingles, there could still be damage hidden where you least expect it. No matter how new or old your roof is, scheduling a free inspection by experts in the industry such as those at Hometown Roofing is always a good idea once spring rolls around. Here’s why.

Inspections Can Identify Money-Saving Upgrades

It’s quite possible that you won’t have any issues with your roof. If that’s the case, you can breathe a sigh of relief and have peace of mind through the warm months that your home is safe and will keep your family comfortable. This might be a good time to look into some energy-efficient upgrades to your home like new vinyl siding, upgraded insulation, or solar features. These can increase your resale value and save you money on your utilities. If the experts at Hometown Roofing can’t help you with the upgrades you’re interested in, they can suggest reputable local companies who can take care of your needs

Inspections Catch Problems Early On

The main goal of a roof inspection is to spot problems before they become larger issues. The professionals at Hometown Roofing know how to identify issues such as missing or damaged shingles, clogged or damaged gutters, siding issues, or cracked windows that, if left unrepaired, could lead to much larger problems. When repaired at this early stage, costs can be contained. If allowed to go unrepaired, though, these small issues could turn into the need for a full roof replacement that costs thousands of dollars.

What Your Spring Inspection Will Include

Many homeowners are not sure what should be included in a thorough spring maintenance inspection. At Hometown Roofing, we find that a good Omaha roof inspection usually includes the following:

Structural Inspection

Uneven roof planes, conditions of fascia, soffit, and gutter systems, signs of sagging, cracks in masonry or chimney areas, and crumbling grout are all structural areas that will be inspected. Your inspector may also check the attic for proper venting and insulation.

Material Inspection

Your inspection will also look for shingles that are missing, loose, or broken as well as any missing fasteners or flashing the presence of rust, moss, or stains. He will ensure there are no shingle aggregates in the gutter downspouts as these are a red flag that the roof is deteriorating. Finally, he will check the seals and rubber boots around the vent pipes and make sure there is no deterioration or gaps.

Interior Inspection

Water stains, rot, mold, and leaks in the interior of the home can point to roofing problems. Inspecting the interior is normally a part of a thorough roof inspection.

Note: Due to the restrictions related to the Covid-19 pandemic, you can request that the Hometown Roofing inspector does NOT enter your home to conduct this part of the inspection. All other parts of the inspection can be done without person-to-person contact and without the inspector ever entering your home. (Written 3/30/2020)

Having a professional thoroughly inspect your roof in the spring is the best way to identify issues before they become larger problems. This will help you stick to your home maintenance budget and plan for future upgrades that can make your home more comfortable and attractive to homebuyers. The expert team at Hometown Roofing is available to inspect your roof and always happy to answer any questions. Call today to schedule your free inspection.

Mar '20

Need an Estimate on a New Roof?

Here’s What You Need To Know

As spring slowly emerges in Nebraska, many homeowners decide that now is the time to think about a new roof. This can be a very overwhelming prospect as roofs are not only vital to your home’s integrity, but they are also not cheap. Many homeowners also worry about getting taken advantage of by an unscrupulous roofing company, which is a valid concern. Fortunately, if you educate yourself about the process of getting an estimate and keep in mind some tips on choosing a reputable company, you won’t have to worry.

What Should Be Included in a Roofing Estimate?

One sign of working with a professional roofing company is that they will provide you with a comprehensive estimate. At the minimum, your estimate should include a cost for labor and a cost for materials.

Labor Costs

As the name implies, these are the costs associated with the time and effort of the roofing crew to remove your old roof (if applicable) and install the new one. Seeing a cost for both removal and installation is helpful and shows professionalism on the part of the roofing company.

Material Costs

One of the ways roofing companies make money is to mark up the materials they buy wholesale. Not only is this legitimate, but it’s necessary for any roofing company to stay in business. However, this is where numbers can start varying because it’s up to the roofing company to decide how much they will mark up their materials. In general, you want to look for a mark up of less than 30%. You can check this by talking to a local roofing supplier about their wholesale costs. Make sure you know exactly what materials the company is using before making the call.

Other Charges

Depending on your specific projects, your roofing estimate may also include some miscellaneous charges. These could include the cost of removing any debris from a tear-off, transportation costs, or rental of dumpsters. If you see charges you don’t understand on your estimate, always ask the company about them.

Is the Estimate Always Accurate?

There’s a reason it is called an estimate! This is what the roofing company anticipates your project will cost based on the information they’ve gathered during the evaluation process. A reputable roofing company will be able to discuss the estimate with you and will be open and honest about any issues that may occur during the project that could increase the cost. For example, a roofer simply can’t know what is under an old roof until they tear it off. If there is significant damage to your decking, the costs will increase.

Choosing a Reputable Roofing Company

When you choose a reputable roofing company, you can have peace of mind that your estimate is fair and accurate and that you’ll receive excellent customer service during the entire process. A reputable roofing company will conduct a througouh inspection before they give you an estimate and will answer any questions. You should feel comfortable with the representative and never feel like information is being held back. Choosing a roofer with a good local reputation, with references from local clients, and with good reviews online is imperative.

Keep in mind that reputable roofing companies will likely not have the lowest prices in town. You get what you pay for when it comes to roofs, and choosing the lowest estimate is usually not the best way to go. Be wary of estimates that are much lower than others and any roofing comapany that claims they will refund the cost of your insurance deductible. These usually indicate a company that has something to hide.

When it’s time to consider a new roof, you shouldn’t have to worry about whether or not the estimate you get will be fair. When you work with a reputable roofing company like Hometown Roofing, you’ll know you have the best professionals in the business for your project. Ready to get started? Call us for a free estimate today!

Nov '19

Tips on Taking Care of Your Roof This Winter

Keeping Your Roof Winter-Proof

The first flurries of snow have already fallen and we all know what that means: the winter season is upon us. Once we see the first snow, thoughts of replacing roofs usually get put on hold and we advise most homeowners to go into maintenance mode unless their roof cannot withstand the cold months in its current condition.

Here are some expert tips on taking care of your roof this winter to ensure your family and possessions stay safe and warm through the coldest months of the year.

Get an Inspection

It’s not too late to get a professional from Hometown Roofing to give your roof a thorough inspection to identify any red flags that could compromise it this season. This is especially important if your roof is nearing the end of its life (the typical lifespan of a roof is 15 to 20 years). If there are any deficiencies in your roof, they can still be fixed before the worst weather hits. An inspector will look for splits, separations at the seams, leaks, ridges, rust, and any other deterioration that could compromise your roof this season. If your inspector doesn’t find anything, you will have greater peace of mind going into the winter months.

Clean the Gutters

If your gutters are full of leaves, branches, and other debris from the summer and fall, it’s important to clean them out. Clogged gutters can prevent proper drainage from the roof when the snow melts. This can cause a number of problems such as cracked gutters, ice dams, and damage to the roof as a whole. If you feel comfortable getting on a ladder and cleaning out your gutters, do it now before it gets too cold. If you don’t, hire a professional to give your gutters a proper cleaning.

Keep Your Roof as Clear as Possible

After a snowstorm, it’s ideal to remove as much of the heavy snow as possible from your roof. Snow can put a lot of pressure on a roof and make it more susceptible to damage — especially if it’s nearing the end of its life or has other defects. In addition, snow-laden roofs lead to ice dams which can further damage the roof and lead to leaks inside the home. Snow slides and icicles can also be dangerous to those passing under the roof. Though it may seem like a huge pain to clear your roof after large storms, it’s well worth the time and effort.

Install a High-Quality Roof

Though you may be running out of time to get your roof replaced this year, it’s worth it to start budgeting now to get a high-quality roof installed when spring arrives. A quality roof installed by the professionals at Hometown Roofing will withstand even the worst of Nebraska winters and will keep your family safe and comfortable all year long.

Ready to get your free inspection before the first blizzard? Give us a call today!

Oct '19

How to Deal with Common Roofing Problems

Dealing With Issues

No matter how well it was installed or maintained, every roof in the Midwest Area will experience some problems. We live in an area of the country that has extreme weather throughout the year, and the exposure to wind, rain, snow, ice and excessive heat takes its toll on your roof. Spotting these problems early is the key to getting them fixed before they compromise the comfort or safety of your family or lead to the need for a new roof. Keep an eye out for the following red flags and always keep in mind that an inspection from the professionals at Hometown Roofing is the best way to determine if your roof needs repairs.

Granules in Your Downspout

If your roof has just been installed, you can expect to find granules in your gutter as many loose granules will gather there during installation. However, if your roof is older and you discover excessive granules in your downspout or while cleaning your gutters, it could be a sign that your shingles are deteriorating. Because granules protect your shingles from the elements — especially UV rays from the sun — the loss of them could cause shingles to become brittle and crack. If your gutter seems clogged, you should take a look and see if granules are part of the problem. You can also look for them coming out of your downspout during or after heavy rain.

Missing Shingles

If you have dark patches on your roof, it’s a sign that some of your shingles are missing. Though this can happen due to an isolated incident, such as an animal being on your roof or particularly high wind, it could also indicate that the sealant holding down your shingles is deteriorating. Either way, you should have a professional get up on your roof to determine if enough shingles are missing to cause a problem or if there is a bigger problem with your roof as a whole.

Interior Water Spots

Leaks in your roof can be tricky. They don’t usually cause visual damage until it’s too late and by then the damage could be extensive and a new roof is usually in order. Another complication with roof leaks is the visual damage is usually in a different part of the home from where the leak is actually located on the roof. Why? Because water usually travels along the roof panels, then drips down into your attic insulation before leaving water spots on your ceiling. If you do see these spots, it’s time to call a professional. However, having regular roof inspections even when you don’t see leaks is a good way to discover them before they cause any major damage.

These are just a few red flags that could indicate your roof is failing or needs repairing. Though you can keep an eye out for large problems, it’s always best to have a professional take a look on an annual basis or after a big storm to make sure everything is intact. Schedule your free roofing inspection today in the Omaha area with a professional at Hometown Roofing. Our experienced inspectors can give you peace of mind and take care of any issues before they turn into crises.

Sep '19

What Are Ice Dams and How Can You Prevent Them?

Though no one is quite ready to talk about winter yet, the cold and snow are mere months away. Along with the wind and freezing temperatures, the other big hazard for homeowners is ice. We all know that ice can make for slippery conditions for pedestrians and vehicles. However, some Midwest homeowners aren’t aware of how ice — and more specifically ice dams — can damage their roofs. An ice dam is basically a ridge of ice that forms at the edge of your roof and prevents water from draining off. The water that backs up as snow melts can then leak into the home and cause damage to the roof itself as well as to the ceiling, walls, insulation, and other areas.

Ice dams are the result of an interaction between the amount of heat lost from your home’s roof, the snow cover on your roof, and the outside temperature. Ice dams form when there is snow on the roof and higher portions of the roof’s outside surface are above 32 degrees Fahrenheit while lower ones are below this temperature. The snow that is on the surface that is above 32 degrees will melt and, as water flows down the roof and reaches the portion where it’s below 32 degrees, it freezes, and an ice dam forms. As more melting snow reaches it, the ice dam grows larger.

However, it will only freeze on the portions of the roof that are above 32 degrees. The water backing up behind it remains liquid and finds cracks and openings in the roof and flows into the attic space and then into exterior walls and ceilings. The heat from the house, heat loss from air leakage, exhaust systems, and chimneys are common culprits that lead to different temperatures on roofs that result in ice dams. Controlling the heat loss in the home is one of the best ways to prevent them from forming. You can do this by taking the following actions:

Remove snow from your roof after a snowstorm.
If water is flowing into the house, make channels through the ice dam to allow water to flow through and off the roof. You can do this by hosing the area with tap water on a warmer day. This is a temporary fix and should not be used as a long-term solution.
Seal air leakage paths between the house and attic space.
Increase insulation to cut down on heat loss by conduction.
Consider natural attic ventilation systems to dry the attic space and remove heat build-up during the summer months. By preventing snow from melting, you are reducing the opportunity for ice dams to form. However, it also means your roof will bear a greater snow load. Ensure your roof can carry this additional load by talking with a roofing professional such as those at Hometown Roofing. Ice dams can be very damaging to your roof and the rest of your home. They can also lead to the growth of mold and mildew that are unhealthy for you and your family members. If you do have an ice dam that causes dampness or wet conditions in your home, dry them out as best as possible, then try to get rid of the source of leaking. You may need to speak with a professional who specializes in mold removal if the problem has been long-term. Then talk to a roofing professional about taking steps to prevent further ice dams. If you’d like a free inspection of your roof to see if it is ready to take on the Nebraska winter, please call us at Hometown Roofing.

Sep '19

How Your Roof Can Save You Money on Heating and Cooling Costs

Are your heating or cooling costs literally going through the roof? If you have an older roof, you may notice that your electric or gas bills have been steadily climbing. This could be due to your roof leaking or not being as efficient as it could be. Nearly half of what you spend on utilites each month go toward heating and cooling. When you look at it this way, it makes sense to turn your attention to your roof to see what measures you can take to save money. Here are some of our tips.

Increase Insulation

Increasing the amount of insulation in your attic can lower heating and cooling costs as well as prolong the life of your roof. Insulation creates a barrier that reduces thermal transfer between the attic and the rest of your home. The R-value of your insulation refers to its ability to resist transfer from heat. When you increase the R-value of your insulation, you create a more comfortable home with less need for heating or cooling.

Increase Ventilation

Just because you want to increase the thermal transfer barrier in your attic does not mean you want to trap air inside of it. Fresh air plays a very important role in roof health and in the comfort of your home. Excessive attic heat can warp the roof decking and can pass through the insulation into the rest of the home.

Intake vents draw fresh air into the attic, and, when paired with exhaust vents, provide a natural airflow throughout the attic and keep excessive heat from building up in the attic. This will not only decrease cooling costs in the summer months, but it will also increase the life of your roof.

Consider Replacing Your Shingles

If you have a dark roof, it could be absorbing heat and transferring it to the underside of your roof and into the attic. This can add to your cooling bills in the summer months and decrease the life of your roof year-round. Roofs with energy-efficient shingles help reflect the rays of the sun and reduce this transfer of heat. These types of shingles also have a longer life because they remain cooler, preventing their asphalt base from aging as quickly. For the best reflective shingles, look for those with the Energy Star label as this is the top tier when it comes to lowering temps and can do so by up to 100 degrees.

Whether or not you decide to install reflective shingles, you should at least update older shingles that are damaged or simply out of date. Older shingles do not have as high of a rating and are not as effective at keeping wind out of your home. New shingles can withstand winds up to 130 mph, which means less wind in your home and lower heating and cooling costs.

No matter what the season, you can save on your energy bills by updating your roof. Interested in learning more about updating or replacing your Omaha-area roof? Contact Hometown Roofing today for a free estimate.