FAQ
ROOFING
Is a metal or asphalt roof more expensive?
Metal is typically more expensive due to the technicality of the installation. Asphalt is just a more simple product to install. Due to the installation process, the cost of labor is the generally the largest factor that is considered in the overall cost of a metal roof vs. an asphalt roof.
What kind of roof is best for Idaho?
Both metal and asphalt roofs are great options and often can be a decision that is determined by aesthetics. Although preference may vary, we can also consider some additional factors. Overall lifespan of a metal roof is approximately 50 years vs. an asphalt roof that has an overall lifespan of approximately 20-25 years. Maintenance and general weather conditions play a factor in both situations. Additionally, both roof types should be inspected each year and repaired as needed to maximize its total longevity.
What causes a roof to wear out?
Severe weather, direct sun, algae and mildew growth can all be factors in what causes a roof to wear out. Hailstones striking the roof and removing some of the granules are also a problem. Darker colored roofs tend to wear out slightly faster than lighter colored roofs.
How do I know if my roof has wind damage?
Wind damage can often occur in Idaho, especially to a roof. Shingles that show a crease or are all together missing generally are signs that your roof has received wind damage and should be inspected. Learn more HERE
What types of roofs can be installed on a zero slope roof system?
There are a few different types of roofs that we install at CCX on 0 slope roofs.
TPO/ PVC roofs. These are the white roofs often seen on large commercial buildings like Walmart. These roofs are heat welded and have an average lifespan of 30 years. They can be installed in such a way where water is held in a puddle on the roof surface, meaning no water will penetrate the roof. These roof types are often installed over a foam base, increasing the insulated value of the roof. These roofs are difficult to get in various colors, outside of tan white black or grey. TPO roofs and PVC roofs can also be installed in colder weather because the welder controls the heat application between each lap no matter the ambient air temperature.
Tar and ballast roofing systems are the tar and gravel roofs you often see on structures built in the 80s-90s. They are effective roof systems that can last 30 years. We don’t install these types of roofs at CCX, but we would love to tear them off when they fail and replace them with TPO or SBS modified rolled asphaltic roofs.
EPDM, rubberized black roofs are often installed at places like Walmart or other warehouses. These do best in extreme cold weather, due to their pliability, but are black so they attract heat. These are glued together, and glued down to the roof deck. Similar to TPO, they are often installed over foam. These roofs are less common, but we can install them at CCX. But we would recommend TPO.
SBS modified asphaltic rolled roofing self adhering. Our favorite of these are the Liberty roll from GAF or the OMNI seal from Malarkey. Omniseal is my particular favorite. These are installed in either a 2 ply system with base sheet and then cap sheet, or a 3 ply system with a mechanically attached base sheet and a self adhering base sheet above that and a cap sheet on top of that. These roofs are growing in popularity because they are easier to install, and are often less expensive. They can last about 30 years for the 2 ply and 50 years for the 3 ply systems. However, these roofs do have their limitations. They aren’t installed over foam so they like a solid deck to be adhered to. They also require warm weather for their application to be super effective.
There are foam and sealant applied roofs that we don’t install but there are a few really cool applications for these in commercial settings.
A Trowell paint on surface coatings can be installed for cheaper options. When leaks arise, we particularly like the Lucas Seal 6000 and 5500 systems. These are easy to apply, but must be done properly. These don’t typically last longer than 5-10 years. This heavily relies on which chemical is installed, how thick, and if manufacturer specifications are strictly upheld.
GUTTERS
Why are gutters important?
Your gutters are responsible for water management. During a storm, they effectively channel water flow from your roof, through downspouts, and direct it to appropriate areas outside the home. Without a gutter system, your roof can pick up a bunch of leaves and other debris, causing water to stagnate and overflow. This can make your home vulnerable to rotting, rusting, and other damage. In addition, gutters prevent water from settling around your basement. When water overflows from your roof, it can seep into your foundation and slowly weaken everything that supports your structure.
What are the basic gutter shapes, and what materials are they made of?
There are two basic types of gutters available. First, you have your K-Style gutters which have flat bottoms and backs, and a decorative front. This is the most popular type of gutter. Second, you have your half-round gutters so-called for their half-tube shape. These are more common in older homes. Residential and commercial gutters come in many different materials that include aluminum, copper, vinyl, and steel, among others. Vinyl, for instance, is lightweight and cost effective, while copper is rust-resistant and longer lasting. Aluminum, meanwhile, is durable and easy to install. It all comes down to your preference. We would love to help you find out which material is best suited for your home.
What is the difference between sectional and seamless gutters?
Sectional gutters are pieced together from different lengths and then cut to size to fit around your roof. These are the most common types of gutter, as they are relatively inexpensive and easy to install.However, they are made of many pieces and are more prone to damage.
Seamless gutters are made from a single piece of gutter and are tailor-made just for you. These are more expensive, but are well worth the investment as they are more durable.
How often should I clean my gutters, and do gutter guards work?
Typically, gutters will need to be cleaned two to four times per year, depending on the amount of trees surrounding your home. Gutter guards work well for leaves, branches, and larger debris that fall from trees. They do not work well for pine needles. Even with gutter guards, your gutters should be cleaned at least once a year.
SIDING
What is the function of siding?
Siding has two main functions. First, it plays a major role in protecting your home from inclement weather such as rain, snow, and wind, while keeping your home properly insulated. Second, is to give your house curb appeal, which is important if you plan on ever selling your home.
How can I tell if my current siding needs to be replaced, and does all my siding need to be replaced, or just some?
Signs of siding that are beginning to go bad include things like fungus, separation at the seams, warping, and moisture appearing on the inside of your home. Often, siding problems only affect a small portion of the planks. This is particularly true for vinyl and aluminum siding, but can also be true for some wood siding installations as well. In many cases, individual boards can be removed and replaced without disrupting the ones around them. Keep in mind, it can sometimes be difficult to match color on the new planks to the old ones.
Which siding material is right for me?
Vinyl siding material is the most common type. It’s tough, affordable, and comes in a bunch of different colors and styles. Vinyl is also durable and easy to clean. However, cheap vinyl siding damages easily, fades badly, and it can be hard to repair just a single piece.
Wood siding comes at a high cost and even higher maintenance requirements. However, it is offered in a variety of species, styles, sizes, shapes, and grades. Wood is easy to repair and is easy to install. With regular maintenance, wood can last as long as vinyl products. Clear finishes should be reapplied about every two years. Semi-transparent stains about every three to four years. Paints on average, every five to seven years. This kind of maintenance adds up, so if you decide to use wood, expect long term costs to come with it.
Fiber cement siding is durable, with a medium amount of maintenance required. It is a product made from a mixture of wood pulp, cement, clay, and sand. It can be molded to mimic wood clapboard, singles, or large flat panels. Fiber cement siding does a great job at keeping out the elements and is not prone to rot or decay. However, the material is a lot more expensive than vinyl siding and has to be repainted periodically.
Metal siding is usually associated with modern or contemporary style homes and residential buildings. The most common types are aluminum and steel. Metal can’t mold or rot, it is very low maintenance, and is fire resistant. However, metal is expensive to buy and install. Metal can rust if not properly sealed and finished, and aluminum is prone to dents and fading.
Is removing the old siding necessary?
Removing all of the old siding is not always necessary when your home is being re-sided. It depends on what has been previously installed, what you are having installed now, and what shape your siding is currently in. CCX will look at your property and determine the next best step for your siding.