Grand Rapids Roofing Contractors

Roof Repair

Sometimes you just need repair of one or two areas with leaks or other problems to be as good as new.

Roof Replacements

When your roof is in total disrepair, we remove your old roof, repair the roof deck, and replace the roof.

Roof Inspections

If you haven't had the roof looked at in the last 5 years, now is the time to do it to prevent problems!

Skylights / Vents

We install skylights to allow natural light into your home, as well as above industry standard vents.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

At Grand Rapids Roof Contractor, our goal is your complete satisfaction with our roof work. This means providing you with best-in-industry service and products, at the most competitive prices possible, and providing you with an excellent roofing experience. We have serviced both homeowners and businesses in Grand Rapids for more than 20 years, so you can trust that we understand the challenges of your specific roof issue, and can provide the correct solution with the highest quality work. Your roof is a essential part of your home, and our Grand Rapids roof repair work ensures that your property value increases and your family is kept safe and secure for years to come. You can have confidence that our team of professionals will do the job right. Contact your local branch 24/7 to discuss your Grand Rapids roofer needs and schedule an inspection. We look forward to hearing from you!

616-723-9996



Grand Rapids Roofing Tip of the Month: A Comprehensive Guide on Wood Shakes and Shingles

In this article, we will go through all the important information related with wood shakes and shingles such as diagnosis, inspection, installation, maintenance, etc. We will also discuss the different types of wood roofing materials. Once you are done with this article, rest assured that you will be more confident in making decision.



A Short History of Wood Shakes and Shingles

Wood shingles and shakes are used to be the most common roofing materials in the US during the early century. This is due to the abundance of the timber and the fact that they can be easily manufactured and install. They are made from different trees that are locally available. The revolution in the fabrication of the shingles during the 19th century has made it possible to manufacture shingles that are cut uniformly. After that, new machine shingles have been invented. In the latter part of the 19th century, the wood shingles and shakes are in tight competition against different roofing materials due to the revival and the introduction of different roofing techniques.

Quality of Wood Roofing Materials

The cost of this wood component may range from $150-$200/square. Installation expenses is around $140-$160/square. Their average life span is about 10 to 40 years. The longevity of the shakes and shingles will depend upon the types of wood and the preservatives used in the treatment of wood. The wood shakes and shingles will be sawn in varying lengths. It will then be installed in an overlapping manner that will create at least three layers.

Specification of Wood Shakes and Shingles

Wood shingles are available in different lengths; 16in, 18in, and 24in. Their thickness can vary at about 4/10-1/2 inch. The wood shingles will then be installed in the roof slope of 6-12in for an excellent performance. It will be attached using a shingle nail that has a length enough to penetrate through the nailing board or decking. The specification of the nail that you can use for your wood shakes or shingles will depend upon the species of wood. For instance, if you have a red cedar, the nails should be non-corrosive. It should be made from copper, stainless steel, aluminum and must be galvanized.

The nailing pattern should also be different. Usually, the roofer will require at least two nails per shakes or shingles. This will permit the shingles to expand while preventing them to split. Understand that the shingles may expand when they are constantly introduced to moisture. Nails should be placed at an interval of 3/4 in. The nail should not be too close to the edge of the shingles.

Maintenance and care should be performed regularly on your wood roofing materials. Clearing the debris and leaves on your roof can greatly offset the damages and prolong the life of your roof. Try to install some zinc strip on your roof if you are having troubles with your persistent moss growth. Ultraviolent absorbers and pigments can also slow down the degradation of your roof.

© Grand Rapids Roofing Contractors - Professional Roof Repair - 616-723-9996