FAQ


Asphalt FAQ:


How many homes are topped by asphalt shingles? Why?

Asphalt shingles are the leading choice for residential roofing in Canada and the United States because they provide quality, durability, versatility and economy. Over 12.5 billion square feet of asphalt shingle products are manufactured annually; enough to cover more than 5 million homes every year. Four out of five homes are roofed with asphalt shingles.

Asphalt shingles offer consumers the broadest array of colors, shapes, and textures available. With an enormous range of styles, asphalt shingles can match almost every type of architectural design and achieve virtually any desired effect; and do it affordability.


How are asphalt shingles made?

In Canada and the United States, asphalt shingles are categorized as either organic-based or fiberglass-based. Organic-based asphalt shingles are manufactured with a base (also termed mat or substrate) made of various cellulose fibers, such as recycled waste paper and wood fibers. This organic base is then saturated with a specially formulated asphalt coating and surfaced with weather resistant mineral granules.Fiberglass-based asphalt shingles are manufactured with mat composed entirely of glass fibers of varying lengths and orientations. This fiberglass base is then surfaced with a specially-formulated asphalt coating, followed by weather-resistant mineral granules.


What are the different types of asphalt shingles?

Strip Shingles — these asphalt shingles are approximately three times as long as they are wide. Manufactured in both standard and metric dimensions, strip shingles are distinguished by the number of cutouts or tabs that they have. The most common type of strip shingle is the “three-tab” shingle. Different textural and lighting/shadowing effects can be achieved with strip shingles depending on the number, shape and alignment of the cutouts.

Laminated Shingles — these special shingles contain more than one layer of tabs to create extra thickness. They are also referred to as three-dimensional or architectural shingles because they create visual depth on a roof and impart a custom look. Laminated shingles continue to be a favorite among builders, roofing contractors and home buyers.


How do I determine if a roof should be replaced?

Sooner or later, every roof needs to be replaced, usually due to the long-term effects of weathering. Organic tiles last on average 13 years. To determine if you need a new roof:

On the ground, walk around your home with binoculars and inspect your roof for cracked, curled or missing shingles, as well as any excessive loss of the protective mineral granules. DO NOT CLIMB ON THE ROOF; walking on the roof is dangerous and can damage your roof.

In your attic, take a flashlight and look at the underside of the roof deck and rafters for any stains or wet spots indicating water leaks.


Metal FAQ:


Why Metal Roofing?

1) Metal roofs are available in a wide variety of colors and profiles providing numerous design options

2) Metal roofs come in long lasting colors with no nonsense warranties

3) Metal roofs provide over 30 years of exceptional durability

4) Metal roofing is noncombustible

5) Metal Roofing is hail resistant

6) Metal roofing, if properly installed, will not absorb or be damaged by water

7) Metal roofing will shed ice and water in the winter

8) Most steel products are made with recycled steel and contain at least 25 percent recycled material


How much does it cost?

Cost is determined on a number of things: Amount of product you will need to complete the roof will have an effect on the total cost. Depending on how large the project is will be a large factor in price range. Complexity of roof area is another factor in determining price. (i.e. valleys or transitions, dormers, number of hips, etc.) Style type of the roofing desired; whether this is standing seam, vertical rib, or tiled, all different types of style vary in price. Because metal roofing is a premium, longer life home product, you can expect the initial cost to be more than an asphalt shingle roof would cost. Generally a metal roof is priced approx 2 – 3 times the price of Asphalt.

I am now able to offer a “Summit Panel Steel Tile Roof” at a cost comparable price of an Asphalt Shingle. (depending on detail). It is now affordable and you will reap the benefits of a permanent roof. No matter what kind of metal roofing style you choose, its life cycle cost will be less. In the long run, a metal roof is less expensive than asphalt, tile, cedar shake and slate roofing.


Can Metal Roofing be installed over my old roof?

Yes! Metal roofing weighs less than 1.6 pounds per square foot, depending on the gauge. It will not normally over load existing roofs. Metal roofing can usually be installed right over asphalt or fiberglass roofing. The existing roof in some cases also serves as an increased level of insulation.


Will Metal Roofing improve the look of my home?

Metal roofing offers a wide variety of panel profiles from which to choose. A vast array of design appearances can be achieved when using metal. If you desire a bold looking roof, Steel Tile provides a large selection of beautiful colors to achieve the desired look. You can also use high slim rib panels to create interesting shadow lines or a low profile panel can be used to create an interesting design to your home. Steele Tile provides many different styles giving you the Slate Look or the European Dutch Clay Tile. These are all available in many colors.


What about noise?

Usually, metal roofing is installed over plywood and felt or an existing roof. Therefore, the sound generated by rain or hail would be similar to other roofing materials. The myth of a noisy steel roof comes from barns that were built with steel roofing installed on open framing and with no insulation.


Which Metal Roofing system should I use?

There are two common types of metal roofing systems primarily used in residential applications; concealed fastener and exposed fastener systems. Generally, exposed fastener systems cost less than concealed fastener systems. Depending on the aesthetic look you are trying to achieve, your trained professional contractor can help you select the system right for you and your roof design.


What type of warranty does a metal roof carry?

As with any industry, there are many different warranties available to consumers depending on the manufacturer of the product. With that being said, it is important to remember that companies come and go. So as a rule of thumb, you should look to companies, like Steele Tile Inc. who have been around for decades to find good examples of creditable warranties. These companies offer 40 year warranty on their paint colors alone. Metal Roofs have been used in Commercial and Agriculture for 100 years, they are permanent and the last roof that you will need to have installed. There warranties are no non-sense, clearly stated warranties that explain in detail the product, the company, and the customer’s responsibility.