Finding a good contractor from one of the many roofing companies in Rockville is essential for the success of your next roofing project. Whether you need storm damage repaired or it’s time for a full roof replacement, you deserve to work with a professional contractor.
At MARS Roofing, we want all of our customers to feel like they’re getting A+ service. That’s why we put together this list of the best contractors to choose from.
12 BEST ROOFING CONTRACTORS IN ROCKVILLE
Finding a good contractor can be something that you do in a quick Google search or a referral from your friend. We’re curating some of the reviews and opinions from across the internet on this list. But, keep in mind that we’re not ranking these roofers in any particular order.
MARS RESTORATION
Locally owned and operated out of Clinton, MD, MARS Roofing is one of the very best. We’ve amassed 240 Google reviews and still have a 4.7-star rating. We care about our customers and want you to always have a good experience.
Address: 7732 B Old Alexandria Ferry Rd, Clinton, MD 20735
Phone: (240) 830-7003
Google Rating: 4.7 Stars
SIM ROOFING
A smaller company and a newer business in the area, Sim Roofing has been working hard to get their footing. They’re off to a great start with several good reviews. If you like working with a small business, then these guys are a great choice for you.
Address: 544 W Montgomery Ave, Rockville, MD 20850
Phone: (301) 377-4079
Google Rating: 5 Stars
ROOF MASTERS
They’ve been working hard to master roofing throughout Maryland. Roof Masters provides a great customer experience and years of high ratings from happy customers. No matter the age of your home or the condition of your roof, they’ll be there to help you take care of it.
This long-time roofing company specializes in roofs that are out of the ordinary. Commercial rubber roofs, metal roofs, and architectural roofs are some of the common challenges that H.T. Harrison & Sons www.hthroofing.com take on. Look to this pro team for your complex roofing needs.
Address: 424 N Stonestreet Ave, Rockville, MD 20850
Phone: (301) 279-9404
Google Rating: 4.1 Stars
AMERICAN CHOICE EXTERIORS
American Choice Exteriors has racked up more than 75 5-star reviews on Google. That’s quite an accomplishment, and it drives them to continue living up to their high-end, high-quality name. They offer online estimates, free inspections, and maintenance plans for homeowners. Turn to American Choice for a roofing partner.
Address: 112 Frederick Ave H1, Rockville, MD 20850
Phone: (301) 687-2345
Google Rating: 5 Stars
Source: Americanchoiceexteriors.com
DNB CONSTRUCTION LLC
The steep roofs of East Coast homes take a knowledgeable and professional team that has decades of experience. DNB Construction offers that to the city of Rockville and beyond. Slate roofs and commercial projects are both well within the capabilities of DNB.
Address: 5710 Wicomico Ave, Rockville, MD 20852
Phone: (301) 362-7663
Google Rating: 4.9 Stars
CORNERSTONE BUILDING & RESTORATION, LLC
Another up-and-coming roofer, Cornerstone Building & Restoration provides exceptional service to residential roofs and helps ensure that you’re well taken care of. Roofs, gutters, and trim are all well within their wheelhouse. If you want to be taken care of, Cornerstone can help.
Address: 1 Research Ct Suite 450, Rockville, MD 20850
Phone: (301) 216-3810
Google Rating: 5 Stars
PRESIDENTIAL EXTERIORS
A roofing company that’s been serving their customers for decades, Presidential Exteriors knows what it takes to make a roof last. They’re one of Maryland’s go-to roofers with more than 20 years, and they have plenty of experience. Want a roof that will last and be worry-free for many years to come? Presidential can help you get there.
Address: 2301 Research Blvd Suite 300, Rockville, MD 20850
Phone: (571) 279-8000
Google Rating: 4.5 Stars
AMERICAN CUSTOM CONTRACTORS
American Custom Contractors has been providing custom exterior solutions to their customers for decades. Montgomery County is their primary service region, but they can offer services outside of the county as well. Reach out to them for your next project.
Maryland Premier Exteriors focuses on roofing, siding, and gutters for homeowners throughout the area. They’ve been in business for over 20 years and have a long list of satisfied customers. If you’re looking for a one-stop-shop for your home exterior, Maryland Premier can get it done.
Address: 1162 Taft St, Rockville, MD 20850
Phone: (800) 520-8885
Google Rating: 5 Stars
ROOFEXNRG, LLC
Roof replacement, repair, and insurance claims are some of the primary focuses of Roofex. They can help you get your roof replaced with the help of insurance and take care of any other problems along the way.
Halo Construction and Restoration is a full-service roofing company that can take care of any roofing needs you might have. From roof replacement to repairs, gutters, trim, siding, and windows, they’ve got you covered as a one-stop-shop for the industry.
Address: 15269 Display Ct, Rockville, MD 20850
Phone: (301) 881-8888
Google Rating: 4.9 Stars
HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT CONTRACTOR
While you’re looking for a contractor, there are a few different factors to consider and keep in mind for your home. Getting scammed by a contractor isn’t something that you should have to experience. Here are a few questions to ask yourself or your contractor before hiring them:
Have they been in business for more than 5 years?
Are they licensed and insured to work in your area?
Can they provide references or real customer reviews?
Do they have a professional website?
Are they easy to work with and provide good customer service?
We want you to find a good contractor and be happy with the roofer that you hire. The next time you’re looking for a roofer, be sure to check back on this list.
HIRE MARS FOR YOUR ROOF
Our MARS Roofing team would love to work with you on your next roofing or exterior project.
There aren’t many areas where you should look for the cheapest product and expect a good value and quality product. But, you might be looking for the best value product and potentially one that can provide you with the best bang for your buck.
You shouldn’t have to pay for a crazy expensive roofing product just because. Instead, your roofer should provide you with the roofing material that offers the best possible value for the money that you’re investing.
We’re diving into some of the cheapest and most cost-effective roofing materials for homeowners. Here’s what we’ll be looking out beyond cost:
Durability
Length of life
Install time and cost
Curb appeal
Resale Value
CHEAPEST ROOFING MATERIALS FOR HOMEOWNERS TO CONSIDER
The roofing contractor you choose to complete the roofing on your home will likely have an impact on the overall cost and material choice. Be sure to get a few quotes or opinions before making your decision. Especially if you’re not confident that the contractor you’re working with is going to be trustworthy.
ASPHALT SHINGLES
The most popular roofing material in the United States, asphalt shingles are often the obvious choice for many homeowners. But that’s not just because they’re so popular. Asphalt shingles provide a durable roofing material without costing all that much.
But you should be aware of some pros and cons to asphalt shingles.
Cost: Asphalt shingles cost only $1-$1.50 per square foot before installation— making it possible for most roofers to complete asphalt shingle roofs for less than $15,000.
✅ Pros:
Fast and easy installation
Very affordable
Multiple color options
Multiple design options
❌ Cons:
Shorter lifespan 15-25 years
Less durable
METAL ROOFING
Metal roofs are becoming an increasingly popular option for homeowners. Metal roofs are often made of steel, aluminum, copper, or a combination of these materials to provide an even better product. The exact material that your roof is made out of will affect both the look of your finished product and the cost of the roof.
When considering a metal roof, take into account that the higher cost makes for a roofing material that will last longer and provide better protection for your home than standard asphalt shingles.
Cost: The average cost for metal roofing will range from $5-$14 per square foot. Most metal roof installations on a 1,500-1,800 sq ft home will cost around $35,000.
✅ Pros:
Long-lasting with 40-50 year lifespan
Wind and storm resistant
Premium protection for your home
Eco-friendly and sustainable
❌ Cons:
Expensive to install
Can require maintenance
Repairs are expensive
ROLLED ROOFING
Rolled roofing or rubber roofing is a flat roof material that can be available to some homeowners who own a home with low sloped roofs. For those with sloped roofs, this product unfortunately isn’t an option. Rolled roofing is one of the most affordable roofing solutions on the market for both commercial and residential flat roofs.
Cost: Some of the cheaper rolled roofing only costs $.03-$.10 a square foot, making it possible to roof a home for less than $4,000, including labor.
✅ Pros:
Cost-effective
Fast install
Little to no waist
❌ Cons:
Not very durable
Regular maintenance is required
The average lifespan is just 7-10 years
CEDAR SHAKE SHINGLES
Cedar shakes have decreased in popularity over the years, but some homeowners still love the way that they look from the curb and the protection they offer to a home. One of the biggest reasons these shingles have gone down in popularity is because they’re not at all fire-resistant.
Cedar shakes will require regular maintenance and upkeep, but if they’re well taken care of, then your new roof should last for 30-40 years.
Cost: Cedar shakes offer a more affordable solution for a premium product, but they are still more expensive than other materials. The average cost is $4-$7 per square foot, taking a total project cost to roughly $20,000-$30,000.
✅ Pros:
Durable against normal weather conditions
Impressive curb appeal
Affordable premium roofing
❌ Cons:
Longer install time
Regular maintenance
Difficult repairs
HOW TO SAVE MONEY DURING A ROOFING PROJECT
If you need your home reroofed, there are some things you can do to keep costs low and save money during the process beyond just buying the cheapest materials. You will likely need to DIY some parts of the project to get maximum savings.
HELP TEAR OFF OLD MATERIALS
If you’re replacing your roof, then there’s going to be old materials that need to be torn off. Your roofing company is going to include the cost to tear off the shingles in their original bid. But, if you’d like to save some money, you can offer to tear off the shingles yourself.
Tearing off the materials isn’t too difficult, but it does make for a long day’s work at high heights, so be sure that you have the correct safety equipment and that you’re not biting off more than you chew with the project.
GET MULTIPLE ESTIMATES
Unless you have a specific recommendation or you feel very confident in the contractor you’re choosing to work with, it’s always good to get more than one estimate. Most experts and insurance companies will recommend getting three estimates and vetting the companies to decide which one you prefer working with.
Your roofing contractor should have:
5+ years of experience
A professional website
Real customer reviews
Fast and responsive customer service
CHECK WITH YOUR INSURANCE COMPANY FOR A REBATE
Many homeowners don’t know that they can get a rebate from their insurance company for having certain types of roofing installed on their homes. Similar to energy rebates for installing high-efficiency appliances, these rebates can help to make your insurance less expensive.
Contact your insurance company and ask about the rebates they offer for new roofs and different roofing materials.
CHECK TO SEE IF YOU CAN MAKE A CLAIM
Damage caused by wind, hail, storms, and debris can all be covered by your homeowner’s insurance. More than that, when damage is severe many homes can have their entire roof replaced. Call a company like MARS Roofing for a free roof inspection to find out if there’s any damage to your roof.
CHECK WITH YOUR CONTRACTOR ABOUT FINANCING OPTIONS
If you don’t have the cash to pay for your roofing project upfront, then financing can be a great option. Some companies are able to offer homeowners 0% interest loans and even payment plans that will last as long as 20-30 years if needed.
It’s better to get a roof over your home than to wait until you have the money to pay for it out of pocket. Damaged or old roofs will only lead to further costs and damages down the road.
GET THE MOST VALUE FOR YOUR ROOF
If you want to get a high-quality roof that will continue to provide value to your home for years to come, reach out to our team today. MARS Roofing can help you get a roof for a great price that will last for years to come!
You’re busy running a business, and you’ve got millions of things on your calendar. The last thing you should have to worry about is the roof protecting your business.
Sadly, storms, wear and tear, and time will all take a toll on your roof and lead to the need for replacing it.
Thankfully you won’t have to go it alone. MARS Roofing is ready to come alongside you and find the solution for your roof that fits both your business and your budget.
COMMERCIAL ROOF INSTALLATION VS. RESIDENTIAL ROOFING: WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?
One of the big hiccups that happen when business owners choose commercial roofing for their business is that they fail to realize that commercial roofing is quite different from residential roofing.
Residential roofs are designed to cover less space and provide a more aesthetically appealing final product. The materials themselves are long-lasting, but the cost per square foot is higher than commercial roofing products.
Long-lasting
Better curb appeal
Higher price per square foot
Commercial roofing is a different story; commercial buildings have a lot more wear and tear from the elements because they’re often larger than residential properties and are more exposed to the elements than homes. Commercial roofs rarely need to have good curb appeal and can be hidden from the view of those that are on the ground level around the building. Since commercial roofs are flat or low pitch, they require different materials as well..
Flat and hidden from view
More exposed to harsh weather and sunlight
Requires more frequent care and reroofing
TYPES OF COMMERCIAL ROOFING SYSTEMS
You’ll notice that a few of the different roofing materials on our list have both residential and commercial uses. When installing these materials in commercial settings, they’re almost always a higher quality, more durable material.
FOR FLAT OR LOW-SLOPED ROOFS
BUILT-UP ROOFING OR BUR MEMBRANE:
If you have a flat roof or low-sloped roof, then BUR membranes are perfect for your commercial roofing project. This roof material has been around for centuries and uses tar and gravel to create multiple layers over your roof. These layers provide enhanced protection for your roof.
Along with offering superb durability, BUR roofs are very affordable.
✅ Pros:
Durable
Affordable
Fast installation
Easy Maintenance
❌ Cons:
Shorter lifespan than other products
Requires regular maintenance
MODIFIED BITUMEN ROOFING
Modified Bitumen or mod-bit roofing is an excellent commercial roofing choice for flat or low sloped roofs. This system is an alternative to BUR roofing and provides an updated approach to the age-old roofing system.
These two-ply systems are made from reinforced roof fabrics and bitumen layers and then fastened to rooftops. These roofs are easier to maintain and require less maintenance than BUR roofs
✅ Pros:
Long lifespan
Durable in extreme weather conditions
Good for roofs that have foot traffic
❌ Cons:
Absorbs heat in the summer
More expensive than other flat roofing material
THERMOSET OR EPDM ROOF MEMBRANE
A Thermoset or EPDM roof membrane is a versatile, long-lasting, and easy-to-maintain commercial roofing type. Made from a single-ply rubber material, these roofs are very quick and easy to install.
One of their big benefits is their resistance to ozone and ultraviolet light. This material is also more flexible in cold temperatures and has reflective properties.
✅ Pros:
Great for cold climates
Fast install
An affordable option for flat roofs
❌ Cons:
Full replacement is needed more often than repairs
Not as durable as other material options
THERMOPLASTIC OR PVC & TPO ROOF MEMBRANE
A lightweight membrane that’s extremely durable and resistant to degradation in many forms. PVC and TPO roofing membranes are perfect for commercial applications that are faced with harsh weather or exposure to harsh chemicals.
✅ Pros:
Great for buildings that release oils through ventilation systems
Highly resistant to UV rays, punctures, and chemicals
❌ Cons:
More expensive than most other flat roofing options
GREEN ROOFING SYSTEMS
Many commercial buildings are opting for green roofs because of their environmentally friendly nature. These specially designed, eco-friendly rooftops use vegetation to provide insulation and reduce energy costs.
A flat roof is required to install a green roof system. Green roofs combine rubber membranes with soil and plants to offer a longer-lasting and more durable roofing solution.
✅ Pros:
Eco-friendly
Long-lasting and durable
Great curb appeal
❌ Cons:
Expensive to install and maintain
Certain structural requirements are needed
OPTIONS FOR SLOPED ROOFS
METAL ROOFING
Commercial buildings that don’t have low or no slopes are great candidates for metal roofing. Metal roofs are often one of the most durable roofing materials and can last for 50 years or more with proper care.
They’re also a great choice because they can reflect the sun’s heat, keeping your building cooler in the summer months.
✅ Pros:
Durable
Lasts up to 50 years or more
Little to no maintenance is required
❌ Cons:
Expensive
Longer install time
Great curb appeal
More sustainable than other materials
ASPHALT SHINGLES
Asphalt shingles are one of the most popular residential and commercial roofing materials both because of their price and durability. This material won’t last nearly as long as metal roofing, but you’ll still spot it on many sloped commercial roofs.
These three-tab shingles are available in a variety of colors and styles to match the look of your building, and different designs are available to offer great customizability.
✅ Pros:
Inexpensive
Available in many styles and colors
❌ Cons:
Lack of durability
2-3 day install time
COMMERCIAL ROOFING PROCESS: NEW BUILDS
New builds will have a more straightforward roofing process than reroofing because there won’t be any material on the roof to start, thus making the project a bit easier and faster.
Steps to commercial roofing for new builds:
Inspection of the building envelope
Determine the best approach and material for the roof
Present the roofing plan and bid
Sign with the contractor to complete the work
Begin roofing your commercial building
FINDING A CONTRACTOR YOU TRUST
For commercial new construction, you likely won’t have a lot of say in who handles the different aspects of the construction project after you sign with a building company. Thus it becomes very important that you choose the right contractor when you begin your building project.
If you do want to have input into who roofs your new building, be sure to tell the project manager you’re working with. Here’s what to look for in a good roofing contractor:
More than 5 years in business
Positive online reviews
A professional website
Willingness to show you previous work
CHOOSING THE RIGHT MATERIALS
The right commercial roofing material for your business and building makes all the difference. The climate where your building is located, the cost of materials, installation time, and the type of business you have are all important considerations.
As we’ve mentioned, there are pros and cons to every roofing material, whether it’s being used for commercial or residential roofing.
The best way to choose the right material for your roof is to consult and talk through your options with a roofing contractor.
COMMERCIAL ROOFING PROCESS: REROOFING
Reroofing is an extremely important part of owning a commercial building. Keeping your roof well maintained and replacing it when the time comes is essential to the health of your business.
The process of commercial roofing for reroofing is a bit more complicated than installing a new roof. You’ll have to take into account:
The current state of the roof
What material do you want to use
Removing the old material
How the installation will be carried out
As the building owner or manager, you won’t be controlling or performing many of these tasks. Instead, you’ll need to find and schedule a roofing team to help you with the project.
REGULARLY SCHEDULE ROOF INSPECTIONS
Even if you’re not reroofing your commercial building, it’s important to have regular roof inspections at least one to two times a year. Inspections will catch any damage or potential problems with the roof before they turn into a bigger issue.
Scheduling a commercial roof inspection should happen after any major weather events as well. It’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to roofing inspections. If you’re unable to catch the damage, it can lead to huge problems.
FIND A CONTRACTOR TO HELP WITH MAINTENANCE
If you’re not comfortable performing commercial roofing maintenance tasks or don’t have the time, it’s important to find a contractor that can help. Some building managers or maintenance crews will be able to handle more than others. But don’t stretch yourself too thin.
Get the help you need so that you’re confident your roof is performing as it should.
SCHEDULE YOUR REROOFING PROJECT FOR THE RIGHT TIME
Like with anything else in life, there’s a right time and wrong time to do things. The same goes for commercial roofing.
It’s best to wait for the commercial roof replacement season, which is typically from late spring into early fall in most of the country. However, this doesn’t include situations where getting the roof done is essential.
HOW TO ENSURE YOUR ROOF IS IN GOOD CONDITION
As the commercial building owner or manager, it’s your job to ensure that the roof is in good condition. This involves regular checks for damage and potential problems and scheduling commercial roofing maintenance as needed.
Here’s a list of tasks that you should regularly perform to keep your roof in good shape. Check for:
Clean and good performing gutters
Penetrations or missing materials
Areas with high watersheds facing degradation
The surface area of the roof is not performing correctly
Debris on the roof from storms or wind
If you’re able to get a good visual on your roof, then you’ll be able to perform the majority of an inspection without having to walk all over. Some roof inspectors even employ the use of drones to help perform inspections.
FINDING A TRUSTWORTHY ROOFING CONTRACTOR
When it comes time to find a roofing contractor, you want to make sure that you’re getting someone you can trust. This is especially important for commercial roofing projects.
There are many factors that go into choosing the right contractor for you, but as a general rule, here are some qualifications:
Licensed and insured
5+ Years in business
Real online reviews
A professional website
Referrals from other business owners
Responsiveness and customer care
As a company, the team at MARS Roofing wants to see the very best for your business. Whether you’re in need of roof maintenance or something bigger than that, we’d love to step in. Don’t settle for anything less than the best, choose Mars!
New to Rockville or lived in the area for years? It’s always fun to find some things to do throughout the area. Events, parks, and popular restaurants are all spots where we look for fun family activities.
At MARS Roofing, we’ve been living and working in the Rockville area for decades, and today we’re sharing some fun things to do in Rockville that we like to do with our families.
RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES
Whether you like to take your dogs for a walk or you have kids that need time and space where they can run around, finding a great outdoor spot for your family in Rockville is important. Here are a few of our favorite indoor and outdoor recreational spots.
LAKE NEEDWOOD
Spending the day outdoors at the lake is better than most any other activity, and Lake Needwood is the perfect place to do just that. With fishing, boating, and swimming all fun water activities, there is ample space for picnicking and hiking, or walking around the lake. Spending a lazy summer day or an adventurous autumn afternoon on the lake might be just what your family needs.
Address: 15700 Needwood Lake Cir, Derwood, MD 20855
Google Rating: 4.7 stars
MOVEMENT ROCKVILLE (FORMERLY EARTH TREKS ROCKVILLE)
Who doesn’t love rock climbing? It’s such a fun activity as a kid, but as an adult, you might feel like there aren’t many indoor places where you can try climbing without the dangers of climbing real rock faces. There’s where Movement Rockville comes in.
This state-of-the-art facility is filled with rock walls and terrain that varies in difficulty making it easy for beginners and experts alike to test their hands (and feet) at rock climbing all while staying indoors.
Address: 725 Rockville Pike, Rockville, MD 20852
Google Rating: 5 stars
HISTORICAL SITES
Rockville is home to some of the state’s best historical sites. If you haven’t been to any of them, then you’re definitely missing out. One of the benefits of living in a state like Maryland is the rich history and the many generations that went before us and made Rockville what it is today.
ROCKVILLE B&O RAILROAD STATION
The Rockville B&O Railroad Station is one of the most beautiful and well-preserved railroad stations in the United States. It was built in 1873 and served as a passenger and freight depot for over 125 years. Today you can still see some of those different areas in action and as monuments to the railroad.
Remember when you’re visiting this railroad that it’s still very much in operation and offers transit to customers traveling all over every day.
Address: 307 S Stonestreet Ave, Rockville, MD 20850
Google Rating: 3.3 Stars
HISTORICAL SOCIETY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY
If you want a more in-depth look at everything that Montgomery County, MD, has been through in past centuries, then visit the historical society. Their museum is a great place to find information on many of the different historical sites throughout the community.
If you’re lucky, you might even be able to catch a tour of the whole place and hear from one of the well-trained employees who live and breathe the history of Montgomery County.
Address: 111 W Montgomery Ave, Rockville, MD 20850
The Beall-Dawson House is one of the most beautiful and well-preserved colonial homes in Rockville. It was built in 1760 by William Beall, a landowner and merchant who served in the Maryland Assembly.
Today the home stands as a museum and a window into another era. Visiting this home is a great way to see how some of the more wealthy individuals of the time period lived.
Address: 103 W Montgomery Ave, Rockville, MD 20850
Google Rating: 4.3 Stars
GLENVIEW MANSION
The first part of the mansion, known as “Glenview,” was built in 1863. The 63-acre plot that the then-home is built on has been landscaped and is perfectly curated for this site. In 1926, the home grew and became a neo-classically designed mansion and one of the biggest homes in the area.
Glenview Mansion is truly stunning and worth visiting to see some of the beautiful landscape and architecture from that era.
Address: 603 Edmonston Dr, Rockville, MD 20851
Google Rating: 4.6 Stars
RESTAURANTS AND BARS
After a long day of running around and enjoying all the different historical sites, you’ll need a good meal. Here are a few of our favorites.
7 LOCKS BREWING
If you’re looking for a good microbrew, check out 7 Locks Brewing. They have some of the best beer in the area and serve up some delicious food to go right along with it.
With outdoor and indoor seating options available, you can enjoy drinks any time of the year with your friends and family.
Address: 12227 Wilkins Ave, Rockville, MD 20852
Google Rating: 4.6 Stars
STANFORD GRILL ROCKVILLE
Looking for a modern meal? Then the Stanford Grill is definitely worth checking out. They have everything from steak to seafood, and they offer a premium dining experience that everyone is sure to enjoy.
Patio areas, firepits, and wood-grilled foods all make this one of the best restaurants in Rockville.
Offering the cabin feeling right as you walk in, Clyde’s Tower Oaks Lodge is a beautiful restaurant that serves up some great eats. Clyde’s is definitely one of our favorite places to go for dinner, focusing on fresh and seasonal ingredients.
Visit this spot for classic comfort food in a nostalgic setting.
Address: 2 Preserve Pkwy, Rockville, MD 20852
Google Rating: 4.5 Stars
THE BEST OF ROCKVILLE
We hope you’ve enjoyed this list and found a few places that you can be excited to visit in Rockville. If you’re ever in need of roofing or siding services in Rockville, our team would love to lend a helping hand.
We provide premium services and free inspections. Reach out to schedule your free inspection today!
Keeping your roof maintained is one of the best things that you can do to help ensure that your home stays protected and that the roof lasts for decades to come. Neglecting important maintenance will only lead to trouble down the road.
In this post, we’re breaking down everything you need to know about keeping your roof well maintained in 2022. No matter the season, there are small things you can do to take care of your home and your roof.
However, it’s important that you regularly inspect your roof and check-in with professionals who can do a thorough inspection of both the exterior and interior portions of the roof.
When the roof isn’t being inspected for damages, here are a few of the things you can do to keep it well maintained.
CLEAR AND REMOVE DEBRIS FROM THE ROOF’S SURFACE
One part of roof maintenance that many people neglect is removing debris like:
Leaves
Pine needles
Twigs
These items can easily get caught up in the shingles or on your gutters which can lead to leaks later down the line.
You also don’t want sticks and leaves rotting on the surface of your roof because that trapped moisture will cause your roof to deteriorate faster.
CHECK ALL OF THE PIPE BOOTS AND VENTS ON THE ROOF
Another common issue that people forget to check are the pipe boots and vents on their roof. Pipe boots can crack over time and become damaged causing problems and leaks down the road. Vents can get clogged or be kept from circulating air through the attic the way that they’re supposed to.
Trapped air and moisture build-up are two of the leading causes of mold in attics and roof systems.
INSPECT FOR ANY ANIMALS GETTING IN
Check for any animals that have found their way onto your roof and inside. Birds, squirrels, raccoons, mice, and more – can all cause problems by tearing shingles or insulation, or even making nests in areas of your home that can lead to serious problems.
If you’re seeing evidence of animal activity in your attic or on your roof, call an exterminator to help and then get your roofer out there to fix all of the damages so that no more animals get in.
CHECK FOR LOOSE OR MISSING CAULKING AND FLASHING
One of the most common causes of roof leaks is when caulking and flashing have become loose or missing. This can be caused by weathering, age, or even just improper installation in the first place.
If you notice any areas where caulking or flashing looks like it’s coming loose, get a professional out to take a look and fix the issue. If you’re feeling confident, you could possibly DIY this fix but, be sure you know what you’re doing.
CHECK YOUR CHIMNEY IF YOU HAVE ONE
If you have a chimney, it’s important to check the flashing and mortar around it every year. Getting water in and around the chimney can cause serious problems. It’s also good to have a chimney sweep out to your home occasionally to make sure that there’s no problems with the inside of the chimney.
Clogs and smoke build-up in a chimney can lead to house fires.
CLEAN OUT YOUR GUTTERS
It’s a good idea to clean out your gutters on a regular basis, especially in the fall and spring when they’re more likely to get clogged with leaves, snow, and ice. Keeping all of the debris out of the gutters and making sure that they drain properly will make a big difference.
If water isn’t able to flow freely through your gutters, it will overflow and eventually find its way into your roof system and siding. If this happens a lot, you’ll be left with a headache and lots of problems. Talk with our Gutter Repair and Replacement experts for more info.
REMOVE SNOW AND PREVENT ICE DAMS
Another thing to keep in mind during the winter is removing snow from your roof to help prevent ice dams. Not every roof is going to have problems with ice dams, but if you know that your roof does, then it’s a good idea to check on it periodically and make sure that you can get ahead of it by removing the snow.
If you let a lot of snow build up on your roof, it will eventually turn into ice as it melts and refreezes. This can cause the gutters to back up with water and lead to some serious damage when it gets out of hand.
WHY IS ROOF MAINTENANCE IMPORTANT?
As you can see, there are a lot of things that go into keeping your roof in good condition. It’s not something that should be ignored and it’s definitely not a job that you should neglect if you want your roof to last for years to come.
Ultimately, the three things that you’re going to get out of regular roof maintenance are peace of mind, a long lifespan from your roof, and fewer future problems.
Our skilled team of MARS Roofing roofers are there for you to help make sure that your roof stays in good condition no matter what. We offer free roof inspections and can help to determine how long your roof will last.
It’s hard to know what roofing material you should choose for your home. There are so many different factors that can affect choosing a specific material.
But, one of the biggest reasons homeowners might choose a specific material is the lifespan. Today we’re going to break down material by material what you can expect and help you make an informed decision on your home’s next roofing material.
FACTORS THAT AFFECT WHAT YOU’LL CHOOSE
Before we dive right into the lifespans of all these different materials, it’s good for you to know that there are a few other reasons why you might or might not choose a specific material.
COST OF THE MATERIAL
The cost will be one of the #1 deciding factors on the material you choose. Obviously, the more expensive the roofing material, the more it will cost you upfront and in repairs down the road.
But, as with many things, cost does equal value in many ways. If you’re saving money on a material, it might not last as long or stand up to storms the same way a more expensive material would.
LOCATION OF YOUR HOME
Where you live geographically can also play a role in roofing material choice. If you live in an area with severe weather, you’ll want to choose a roofing material that can withstand hail, high winds, and other extreme conditions.
That’s not to say that people who live in mild climates shouldn’t worry about the material they choose – just that the considerations might be different. For example, a roofing material resistant to fire in one climate might not be as important in another.
Additionally, some states and cities will have restrictions on specific roofing materials, so be sure to check your local building code.
TIME SPENT INSTALLING
The time it will take to install a roofing material should also be considered. Asphalt shingles and metal roofing can be quickly installed in most conditions and temperatures.
But, other materials might need to be installed at a specific temperature. Other materials can take more than a week to install. If you’re trying to sell a home or move in then, you might not have time to spend ensuring that your roof is completed on time.
THE INTEGRITY OF THE ROOF STRUCTURE
Lastly, your home might only be able to handle a specific material. Slate and tile roofing is very heavy, and that extra weight might be too much for your home to hold. It’s a dangerous game if you’re pushing your roof past its limits and trying to put a material on it that isn’t made for that roof.
Check with your roofer and ask about the integrity of your roof. Sometimes it’s possible to modify the roof slightly and add some supports to help your home handle the weight more easily.
ROOFING MATERIALS AND THEIR LIFESPAN
Now that we have that out of the way let’s look into some of these different materials.
ASPHALT SHINGLES
Arguably, one of the best materials and products to come to homes throughout the world is asphalt shingles. These shingles have so much going for them, including affordable, fast installation, and long lifespan.
Lifespan: The average lifespan for asphalt shingles is 15-30 years, primarily depending on the quality of installed shingles and the weather they’re subjected to.
Average Cost: Asphalt shingles are reasonable, averaging around $1-$2 per square foot before labor and installation costs.
Time Needed for Installation: The time that you’ll need to install shingles will depend on how steep and difficult your home’s roof is. The average roof can be finished in 1-3 days.
STANDING SEAM METAL ROOFING
Standing seam refers to metal roofing made up of large sheets. These roofing materials are not only durable, but they’re also affordable. They’ve become very popular over the past few years because of recent advances and trends changing. They come in various colors and can be very attractive on homes, especially modern ones with large rooflines.
Lifespan: The lifespan for standing seam metal roofing is 20-50 years, depending on the quality of metal used and how it’s installed. Some metal roofs can last much longer when well maintained.
Average Cost: These roofs cost homeowners an average of around $50,000 or $6-$7 per square foot, depending on how large the roof is.
Time Needed for Installation: You can expect these roofs to take around 2-5 days to install. The projects are often fast, but they can take a bit longer if the roof lines are difficult to work with.
METAL SHINGLES OR TILES
For homeowners that want most of the advantages of metal roofing without having to deal with standing seam or the appearance of large panels, there are metal shingles. These shingles can look similar to that of asphalt or other shingles. But they’ll have the value and strength of a metal roof.
Lifespan: Like standing seam, metal shingles last for 30-50 years, with some roofs lasting twice as long when properly maintained.
Average Cost: The metal shingles or tiles are more expensive than standing seam and can run anywhere from $6-$12 per square foot, depending on the style you choose.
Time Needed for Installation: Installation time can vary, but expect your roof to be all finished in around 5 days.
CLAY TILES
Clay roofing tiles have been around for thousands of years, and they’re still going strong. They come in various shapes and sizes and add to a home’s aesthetic in big ways. This roofing material is pretty specific to southern states in the U.S. because they’re so heavy. Any added weight on top of a clay roof from snow or ice could cause problems.
Lifespan: Clay roofs basically last forever. These roofs can last for 50-100 years or more as long as they aren’t subjected to severe weather.
Average Cost: This roofing is difficult to install and lasts for such a long time. The average cost runs around $30 per square foot. That can make a simple roofing project pretty costly. But, you have the advantage of it lasting for a century.
Time Needed for Installation: Installation time for these roofs is pretty lengthy—plan for roughly a week and possibly more.
CONCRETE TILES
Concrete roof tiles are a great choice for homeowners who want concrete durability with the esthetic of clay roofing tiles. These tiles come in various colors and styles to fit any home. Concrete is how you can get different colors and even more styles than clay while still getting that long-lasting durability.
Lifespan: Concrete roofing tiles have a lifespan of around 50 years when they’re well taken care of.
Average Cost: This material is a bit cheaper than clay because it’s synthetic. Expect to pay around $15 per square foot.
Time Needed for Installation: These roofs can be installed around a week. Note that sometimes it can take longer if your roof is large or extremely steep.
SLATE ROOFING
Slate roofing has been a popular roofing material in the United States since colonial times. It’s heavy but durable and beautiful. The looks alone make it a popular choice, but one of the main reasons homeowners choose this roof is because it lasts forever.
Lifespan: Known as the forever roof, slate roofing lasts on average as long as 150 years and sometimes more than 200.
Average Cost: Despite being heavy and time-consuming to install, slate roofs actually aren’t all that expensive and run around $15 per square foot for some of the most expensive kinds.
Time Needed for Installation: You’ll likely need around 5-7 days to get this roofing material installed on your home.
SYNTHETIC/RUBBER SLATE TILES
This roofing material is a synthetic version of slate roofing tiles. It has similar durability and longevity, and look, but it’s much lighter and easier to install. You won’t quite get what you would out of a true slate roof, but it’s a much more affordable alternative that still looks great.
Lifespan: This material will last around 50 years on average.
Average Cost: Rubber tiles run around $3-$6 per square foot before installation and labor costs.
Time Needed for Installation: These roof tiles go on quickly and are easy for roofing companies to install. Expect around 2-5 days for installation.
RUBBER ROOFING
Rubber roofing isn’t common on most homes because it’s specific to low-slope roofs. But, if you can install it on your home, you might consider it a great option for you. More commonly, rubber roofing is used on commercial roofs or multi-family housing.
Lifespan: Rubber roofs require regular maintenance but won’t be fully replaced for 15-20 years.
Average Cost: These roofs are very cost-effective and cost less than $1 per square foot.
Time Needed for Installation: Rubber roofs can be installed in less than a few hours.
Cedar roofing shakes are one of the oldest roofing materials used in North America. They have a long lifespan and provide solid protection from snow, rain, and other harsh weather. Cedar roof shingles look gorgeous on cottages or homes with rustic aesthetics and modern homes that are looking for a more earthy aesthetic.
Lifespan: Cedar roofing is extremely durable and likely has a lifespan of around 40-50 years.
Average Cost: The cost of roofing shingles is around $17 per square foot but sometimes less.
Time Needed for Installation: Cedar shakes can be installed in as little as two days.
GREEN ROOFS
A green roof is a roof that has vegetation and a growing medium installed on it. This roofing option is becoming more popular as people seek more sustainable roofing options. Green roofs can help with insulation and roof longevity while providing shade, shelter for birds, and cleaner air quality in the surrounding area.
Lifespan: Green roofs have a lifespan of around 30 years. However, properly taking care of the roof could add decades to its life.
Average Cost: The average price for a green roof is around $11 per square foot before installation. Labor can be expensive for these roofs.
Time Needed for Installation: Most green roofs can be installed in around two days.
FINDING A CONTRACTOR YOU CAN TRUST
At MARS Roofing, we can help you choose the right roof for your home. No matter the material that you’re looking into, give us a call, and we’ll offer you a free inspection as well as a second opinion on what material might be right for your home.
As a local roofing company, we’ve worked with a lot of the different materials used throughout Maryland. Reach out to us today!
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