STYLE Media and Design

Jim Simpson and Troy Jennings, owners of Affordable Roofing Inc.

KNOWING WHEN TO REPLACE

This is one decision that should be left up to the experts and most roofing companies offer free estimates. “A homeowner doesn’t spend much time up on the roof and therefore doesn’t know the characteristics that may appear when it begins to wear out,” says Jennings. Factors such as the age, ventilation and how many layers are on the roof affect how long a roof will last.

Hail damage can make a significant impact on your roof, and many may not even realize the damage is there. Hailstones don’t necessarily have to take off a shingle to damage the roof. More likely, they “bruise” the shingle, removing the granules and allowing UV rays to start breaking down the shingle, and over time, holes appear.

Add to that the fact that “the last hailstorm of 2009 occurred at 12:30 a.m.,” according to Jennings, while you were snug in your bed. “Most people don’t know about the damage or haven’t even thought to file.”

He recommends that if you think hail damage is possible, call your insurance provider as soon as possible. Some providers have instituted a one-year statute of limitations on hail damage claims to receive full replacement costs for the roof. Claims made after that time may be subject to a non-recoverable depreciation.

CHOOSING YOUR CONTRACTOR

To choose a quality roofing company, Jennings recommends a few standards. First, choose someone local. They will know best what sort of weather your roof has suffered. Also, look for a licensed contractor who is insured and carries workman’s compensation. The City of Fort Collins will not issue a building permit to a contractor who does not carry a workman’s comp policy.

Finally, check with your area Better Business Bureau and request a book of good references.

ROOFING MATERIALS

Roofing materials are not always created equal when it comes to expense and Northern Colorado’s climate. The most common and cheapest type is the three-tab asphalt shingle, which is warrantied for up to 25 years. Dimensional or laminate shingles, also known as architectural shingles, are the next step up in roofing materials, generally guaranteed for 30 or more years. “These are becoming the standard in roofs,” says Jennings. “Eventually, they will cause the three-tab shingles to fade out.”

Dimensional shingles tend to be more resistant to hail than three-tab and come in heavy weight “designer” shingles that are guaranteed for up to 50 years. Designer shingles have modified adhesives and are more pliable, leading to their longer life.

Real wood shake, while aesthetically pleasing, do not hold up well in Colorado’s climate. Clay or concrete tile shingles, while long lasting, are expensive and very heavy. Generally, they appear on high-end homes, those with a “Tuscan” feel, according to Jennings. Metal roofs were designed for mountain homes that typically receive a lot of snow (it slides right off), but look best on more rustic homes and can be noisy. Energy Star rated roofing shingles are also available. See “Green Products” on page 32 for more information.

Dimensional shingles offer the best bang for your buck, according to Jennings and Simpson. “The price difference between the three-tab shingle and the dimensional shingle has shrunk in recent years. They are your best value, especially with a few upgrades that can be done for a minimal cost.” One such upgrade Jennings recommends is purchasing shingles with a higher wind rating when possible, a significant benefit during Northern Colorado’s windy season.

Take into consideration how long you plan to stay in your home when choosing the type of roof, says Jennings, and what weather you have experienced in past years. Are you situated on a windy corner or do you seem to get additional snow every winter? You may want to consider upgrading your roof to one with a longer warranty and constructed of more durable materials.

Affordable Roofing encourages homeowners to consider a few “extras” when having their roof redone. While the roof is off, it is a great time to invest in new gutters or attic insulation, both among the services Affordable Roofing offers. For more information on Affordable Roofing, local or federal tax credits, or a free estimate, please call (970) 207-0000 or visit www.affordableroofinginc.com.

Photo by Yellow Paddle Photography

A New Take on Historic Living

Conscience is the most sacred of all property" James Madison, March 1792

In the 1930s, America was at a low point. Economically, she was in the throes of the unknown. The darkness of frustration had her in its grip. But a miraculous thing happened. America’s resilient people began to understand the promise of the previous decade was a false one. More was not necessarily better and the pursuit of happiness didn’t translate into the pursuit of excess. They began to look at family and community and rallied around the idea that life together was better than life in largesse.

Today, the echoes of our past are growing louder and people and companies are responding. Jamestown Builders holds as a part of its mission statement to help restore the home to its rightful place in the American Dream. They believe there must be a way to help the home become less of a monument to self and more of a functional environment and conduit for community and relationship.

Taking steps in that direction, Jamestown Builders has created something special. They call it Re-historic Living: The best of the American past with the innovation of the American Horizon. If you want to hear more about being a part of the great revival of the American home, please visit www.jamestownhomebuilders.

com or come out to one of their homes and enjoy the fire and a warm cup of coffee.