Your roof has multiple antagonists over its life. Water, wind, snow, ice, and storm damage are the biggest enemies of your roof. Water intrusion in any form is a major culprit. Whether it is from rain, snow, ice, or a poorly ventilated roof that traps humidity all of them can promote premature roof damage and aging.

Water and humidity are the arch enemies of wood. If water penetrates or gets underneath shingles and pools it can cause wood rot, mold, and mildew. Each of these is an open invitation for wood-destroying insects like termites or carpenter ants. Your roof can have multiple barriers to moisture depending on the age of your roof.

The average homeowner looks at a residential roof and sees shingles, but a professional roofing company is looking at the layers of the roof that not only include the shingles but the underlayment. Each layer provides additional protection to your roof. Modern roofing has multiple layers for protection. There is a leak barrier, starter strip shingles, roof decking, proper ventilation, and edge cap shingles. These various layers work together to form a water seal for your roof.

Roofing Layers

These layers can be broken down into various stages of roofing:

Framing is the first layer. The framing provides the foundation for the remaining layers of your roof. Framing consists of wood or metal which supports the weight of your roof. Framing balances the weight distribution of your roof so the final weight is balanced and not punishing one section of the roof more than another. This is why professional roofing companies want to get below the shingle so they can inspect the framing both on top of the roof and from the attic. They will inspect for signs of water intrusion, mold, mildew, or wood rot. In many cases, your roof will not need framing repair, but you want to make sure it is inspected to rule out water intrusion or damage.

Insulation is the second layer from the underside of the roof in your attic. Insulation helps keep your home cool during the summer months and warm in the winter. Under-insulation can cost you utility bills and also contribute to the deterioration of the roof layers above if it is not the right amount of insulation.

Roofing ventilation is vital to ensure the proper amount of airflow is traveling through the attic during hot and cold months. Ventilation provides an escape for hot and humid air in the summer months that if trapped can cause moisture damage over time leading to costly repairs.

The roof deck is the plywood that ensures the connection of the framing between the roof trusts and joints. It provides a layer of protection for the layers above.

A water barrier goes on top of the wood roof deck and framing. This is a layer of protection to prevent water from intruding onto the wood surface underneath the underlayment and shingles should a heavy storm push water deep into the roofing surface.

Roofing underlayment provides an additional layer of protection underneath the shingles and on top of the roofing deck. It creates a smooth surface so shingles stick to the roof, form a more uniform shape, and fight blown off shingles in storms.

The starter strip is critical for the rest of the shingle layout and application. This strip is applied below the underlayment and it seals the edges and sides of the roof. It defends the edges against storms, high winds, and rain to help maintain shingle integrity during strong weather conditions.

Shingles are the final layer of the base roofing protection. They provide protection against harmful UV rays and premature aging due to water, ice, and snow. Shingles are fiberglass that provides protection and the look and feel of your roof exterior.

Ridge caps help keep rain, snow, and excessive moisture out of the roofing system. They run along the top of your roofline, but their positioning forces water, snow, and ice away from the roof system due to its position against the slope of your roof. Ridge caps also vent the roof so heat and moisture can vent from the attic maintaining a property attic humidity level.

Additionally, flashing provides layers of protection for the previous layers of roofing. Flashing is metal and is installed around chimneys, pipe venting, and other areas where seams or breaks between the shingles and the roofing exist. They are sealed with roofing tar or silicone that forms a water barrier so water cannot intrude into the seams or crevices that meet the shingles.

The multiple layers of a roofing system are vital to protecting your home. Having an annual roofing inspection by a reputable roofing company will ensure proper maintenance and extend the life of your roof. For example, your shingles may be fine upon inspection, but the roofing professional may find you need repair to your flashing around the chimney or other roof venting. Getting ahead of trouble before it becomes a problem is critical in regular roof maintenance.

At Gilstrap Roofing we have been serving the Upstate longer than any other roofing contractor accredited by the Better Business Bureau, spanning four generations. We live, work and play here so we have a lot at stake when it comes to providing quality roofing with certified crews.

Brian Gilstrap, President
Gilstrap Roofing
Greenville, SC 29611
864.269.1232

Homeowners and businesses that remain in one location for 15 years or more will inevitably be faced with roof repair or replacement at some point. Whether it’s due to an aging roof, or storm damage, roofing can be one of the most expensive investments you will have to make. There are many roofing options from which to choose and several things should guide your choices.

Budget and personal choice are among the top two considerations when considering replacing a roof. Do you plan to stay in this house or location five, ten to 20 more years? If so, you might want to consider a long term investment with an upgraded roof for curb appeal, aesthetics, durability and performance. If you are planning to sell or relocate within five years then you might want to consider a good product but one that won’t break your budget.

The choice of roofing materials has never been better for consumers. Material availability and shipping concerns aside, technological advances in the industry have produced incredible, high-quality and high performing options that can accommodate just about any budget.

Reputable and tenured roofing contractors can offer great insight and suggestions in selecting the right roof for your home or business. These companies can recommend options and are used to working within a household or business budget. They will also tell you what will and won’t work, or if you are considering something that is going to be cost-prohibitive in terms of roof support underneath the finished surface. There are many choices available for roofing materials, but here are some of the major options available today.

Asphalt Composite Shingles

Among the most popular and affordable roofing materials are asphalt composite shingles. Asphalt shingles have been around for 150+ years. These shingles are effective in a variety of climate settings across the U.S. Among the most affordable options these shingles will need to be replaced every 20-25 years. Impact-resistant shingles are available and recommended in areas exposed to ice and hail storms. These shingles come in a variety of colors, textures and styles.

Shale Shingles

Shale shingles have been around for centuries and they are made from slate. They are more expensive but will outlast their homeowner. You can select from a variety of colors. Many homes across the country on the national historic register have shale shingles. These shingles can last up to 100 years and require little maintenance. Shale shingles are fire and water resistant withstanding even the most challenging of weather conditions. Shale is expensive but if you are looking for a low maintenance, long-lasting roof this is one of the best choices you can make.

Wood Shingles

Wood shingles add depth and dimension to any roof. They are long-lasting and highly durable. Cedar shingles will last even longer and resist mold, rot, and wood insect infestation. The key is to have them properly installed by experienced roofing professionals. Wood shingles can be treated to resist insects, fire and wood rot. A shake roof is made from wood, but these shingles are produced from the actual log and shaped for installation.

Metal Roofs

A metal roof is among the most long lasting roofing materials available. A metal roof should last between 25-50 years. Metal roofing is fire, insect, mold and rot resistant. These roofs are among the best in areas with heavy snow and rainy seasons. Metal roofs are great insulators providing warmth in the winter months and lower temperatures in hot summer months. Most metal roof homeowners realize lower heating/cooling costs. They also come in a variety of colors to accent your home or business. Ask your roofing professional about metal shingles for another option.

Stone Coated Steel Shingles

These shingles provide the look and feel of clay tiled roofs at much lower cost. You can get them in a variety of colors. Stone-coated metal shingles perform well in rain, snow, winds and storms. Your neighbors will think you have a clay-tiled roof. These shingles are very light and durable. They can be installed over existing roofs which reduces labor costs. The lightweight material means less reinforcement as you would if you were installing traditional clay tiles. These shingles provide depth, beauty and enhance curb appeal.

Thermoplastic Roofing

These roofs are ideal for commercial or business applications. They provide great insulation and energy savings while offering a durable membrane. The material is durable and can withstand a variety of weather conditions as well as chemicals or spills. This roofing material resists mold, mildew and other bacteria because of their tight seal. They also provide UV blocking for additional savings on heating and cooling bills.

Gilstrap Roofing has been a family owned and operated business serving the Upstate and Midlands of South Carolina since 1935. We welcome your questions, and scrutiny in searching for a roofing contractor. We are a full service roofing contractor with an A+ BBB rating.

Brian Gilstrap, President
Gilstrap Roofing
Greenville, SC 29611
864.269.1232
office@gilstraproofing.com

Architectural shingles were born in the ‘80s.  These shingles were offered as an alternative to traditional three-tabbed shingles.  They are high-quality shingles that will set your roof apart from your neighbors and add incredible curb appeal to your residence.  Architectural shingles are known as dimensional or laminated shingles that add richness and depth to your residence roofline.  They are made from a dense fiberglass mat base and ceramic-laced granules that are contained within a refined and water-resistant asphalt.  These shingles are high-quality and high-performing compared to standard or three-tabbed fiberglass shingles.  There are many options when it comes to selecting an architectural shingle.  

You can choose from simulated shake shingle options that are thick and similar to authentic shake shingles.  Other options include imitation slate shingles that create the look and feel of a slate carriage house roof without the weight restrictions these traditional roofing materials require.  Unlike traditional slate roofing, these shingles do not require the additional support of a slate shingle.  You can choose from a variety of colors to accent the gables and roof elevation planes of a residence.  

Traditional asphalt shingles are comprised of fiberglass that is layered between asphalt and ceramic granule, but they are not as dense as architectural shingles.   This creates a water-repelling effect that protects against ultraviolet light. Architectural and three-tabbed fiberglass shingles are similar in water repellency and resistance to the elements.  However, architectural shingles typically have a longer lifespan and warranty compared to traditional asphalt shingles.

Warranty

Typically architectural shingles have a longer warranty and wind gust protection versus three-tabbed fiberglass shingles.  The architectural shingles have two asphalt shingle stripes that are layers that create a shingle better suited for high winds and volatile weather.  Three tabbed shingles have a 20-30 year warranty while architectural shingles are a minimum of 30 years.  Architectural shingles can handle winds up to 130 mph versus traditional shingles that typically have a 60 mph wind resistance.  

Curb Appeal

Architectural shingles give homeowners a wider selection in terms of color, texture, and curb appeal.  They enhance the appearance and property value of your home.  These incredible roofing materials provide homeowners with a variety of options including colors, materials, flexibility, contour, and depth in appearance.   

Price

Typically architectural shingles run $15-20 more than traditional three-tab shingles.  It’s about 40-50% more expensive than traditional shingles, but the life expectancy, weather/wind rating in addition to attraction or curb appeal are to be seriously considered when re-roofing your residence.  

Whether you are considering traditional asphalt 3-tabbed shingles or architectural shingles Gilstrap Roofing has years of experience in helping homeowners decide what is the best bet for their curb appeal, budget, warranty life, and application.  Contact us today for a free roof inspection and consultation to explore opportunities to protect your home and increase your home value.

When considering a new roof or roof repair be sure to consult Google Reviews and the Better Business Bureau.  Make sure your roofer is bonded, licensed, and carries the required amount of liability and workman’s compensation insurance.    The last thing you want is a roofer with an injury impacting your homeowner’s insurance because they did not carry enough liability or workman’s compensation insurance.  

Gilstrap Roofing has been a family-owned and operated business serving the Upstate and the Midlands of South Carolina since 1935.  We welcome your questions, and scrutiny in searching for a roofing contractor.  We are a full-service roofing contractor with an A+ BBB rating.  

Brian Gilstrap, President

Gilstrap Roofing

Greenville, SC 29611

864.269.1232

office@gilstraproofing.com

If you are considering a new roof for your home there are many options.  The first is to decide what type of roof you want for your home and if your particular structure is right for the finished roof you prefer.  Among the finished options are asphalt and composite shingles, wood, tile, and metal materials.  These are important and diverse materials with each having its support and installation specifications as well as total cost for materials and labor.  

Budget: Many roofing choices or decisions will self-eliminate or select due to budget considerations.  Some options won’t be available for a certain budget, while others will be within your price range.  Starting with a working budget as you work with a professional roofing contractor is one of the best places to begin.  Talking with them will give you an idea of the price ranges for your particular scope of work.  Professional roofing contractors also know what will and what won’t work on specific roofs in terms of structural support.  

Aesthetics/Curb Appeal: Another factor is sheer aesthetics and curb appeal.  Your roof, front entrance, and garage door are the biggest spaces on your property especially in terms of curb appeal and drive-by appearance.  In other words, they are the primary points of real estate someone sees at your residence.  You can have an interior finish and layout to die for, but if your roof doesn’t compliment your residence and stands out it can affect value, and appeal for future buyers should you ever decide or need to sell the home.

HOA Communities: If you live in a community with an HOA there may be limitations on your roof finish choices.  For example, if every residence in your neighborhood has a tile roof (e.g., common in Arizona, Texas, and California) your HOA may require that kind of roof for consistency and aesthetics.  Many homeowners discover these agreed-upon covenants after purchasing a home because they did not read the fine print.  It’s a good idea to run any structural or finished changes by your HOA’s architectural committee if you live within a neighborhood with covenants.  

Weather: Geographic location can dictate what kind of roof you can have as well.  If you live in areas where it is extremely hot and humid in the summer you may want to consider a different roofing material than if you live in the mountains.  Humidity and insulation is an important factor when choosing a roof finish.  A professional roofing contractor can help guide you through this maze for homes in your specific weather zone.  

Selection:  Don’t assume that all shingles are alike.  Shingles are similar to tires.  Some last longer than others and perform differently.  Your roof professional can guide you through the process and explain the materials within different shingles, how long they last and how they perform in addition to the material warranty of any given shingle.  It doesn’t hurt to Google top-rated shingles or their manufacturers and gets an idea of their performance ratings.  However, your local professional roofing company can provide you with samples, colors, and textures as well as manufacturer warranties.  

Roof Removal: As you research and consider a new roof remember there is a labor cost in removing your old roof.  Remember to allow budget room for it.  Some roofing contractors include the cost in the overall quote.  Just make sure you know what you are paying to remove the old roof in addition to the new roof materials and installation.

Choices: There are composite shingles, asphalt shingles, shake roofing, wood shingles, tile, slate, metal, and a ton of roofing material options.  A professional roofing contractor can also help you understand roofing conversion costs.  For example, if you are switching from an asphalt shingle roof to a slate roof there is going to be a cost associated with reinforcing the roof to ensure it can handle the additional weight of a slate versus a shingle roof.   

Under the Hood Considerations:  If your home is 25-40 years old with the original roof there may be additional costs associated with a new installation.  Things like wood rot, water damage/ingression, valley construction, support, and gutter drainage all figure into the installation of a new roof.  Only a professional roofing contractor can determine the condition underneath your old roof by carefully inspecting the roofline and attic of your home.   

You Need a Pro: Assessing a new roof is something you need to consult with a professional.  You may know that your home is due for a new roof, but the only way to make that determination is to have a professional roofing company inspect your current roof and evaluate its condition.  Review roofing contractor online reviews, Better Business Bureau ratings, or complaints and make sure you are dealing with an ethical roofing contractor who can provide you with evidence of their contractor license, proof of liability, and workman’s compensation insurance.  A reputable company will not hesitate to provide all of these and much more including any material and labor warranties.

At Gilstrap Roofing we have been advising roof installation and installing new roofs in the Upstate of South Carolina since 1935.  We are a local and family-owned business that takes great pride in our record with the BB and other local ratings.  We treat your roof like it was our own.  Call, or contact us today for all of your roofing needs.

Brian Gilstrap, President  

Greenville, SC 29611

864.269.1232

office@gilstraproofing.com

Roofing companies are a “dime a dozen,” and no more so than during storm seasons.  Companies from outside the market like Charlotte and Atlanta descend on the Upstate after storms.  These roofers are referred to in the industry as “storm-chasers”.  They race to the most damaged neighborhoods in a storm and offer roofing repair with multiple crews.  However, what is often left out of the quote or discussion is any type of labor warranty.

If you are receiving a new roof there are certain things you need to consider before engaging and contracting a roofing contractor.  One of those is a labor warranty.  Many firms only offer warranties on shingles and other roofing materials, but not their work.

Pay attention to the fine print in your contract with any roofer, local or regional.  Roofers like auto mechanics can make mistakes.  It happens and it’s part of the business.  While the goal is to be mistake-free from time to time conscientious and reputable roofing contractors make mistakes.  Like automobiles, your roof is made up of parts that can be affected by weather events, storms, wind, hail, and other weather-related damage.  However, sometimes laborers and roofing professionals make mistakes.  Any company worth its reputation will offer a labor warranty for a certain period.  

If your roofer is not willing to offer a labor and materials-only warranty walk away.  There are plenty of local, family-owned businesses that are highly rated by the Better Business Bureau willing to offer a limited labor warranty.  Roofs are like the moving parts of a vehicle.  Things break down over time and companies worth their salt stand behind their labor and will help you fight for material warranties if it’s not their fault.  

This is why it’s so important to do your homework when selecting or vetting roofing companies.  A locally-owned firm is far more likely to return to the job and make things right in writing than a storm-chasing crew simply going from job to job in and out of state.  Local firms are accessible after the work and you don’t have to chase them down for information or follow up, like out of state storm chasing crews.

Referrals

Start with reputable, local referrals.  Talk to your neighbors, co-workers, or family members who have had a good experience with a roofing company.  Go check out their work.  Keep in mind each job is different, but it will give you an idea of the quality of work.  A local contractor will understand local/state building codes, permitting, and other regulations.  They will also have relationships with inspectors, city/county offices and subcontractors should anything beyond roofing issues surface in their inspection, or during their scope of work.  

The Search

After you have the name of several companies do your homework.   Go online and research your company list and add any others that may pop up.  Read the Google and other search engine reviews, but be mindful that some reviews can be influenced, or padded.  When doing online searches beware of company ads that pop up on the search page  It doesn’t mean they are not a solid company, but it is a paid ad that puts them on the first page.  Go to the Better Business Bureau to check out their business rating (look for an A+) and to see if any complaints have been filed.  You can also use sites like Home Advisor and Angie’s List to find out about local companies.  

Make sure your contractor is licensed, bonded, and insured.   Remember, roofing materials like shingles carry their own warranty and you are specifically asking about roofing labor.  There is a big difference and companies that offer any type of roofing labor warranty are stand-up companies and will be your advocate. 

Gilstrap Roofing has been a family-owned and operated business serving the Upstate and Midlands of South Carolina since 1935.  We welcome your questions, and scrutiny in searching for a roofing contractor.  We are a full-service roofing contractor with an A+ BBB rating.  

Brian Gilstrap, President

Gilstrap Roofing

Greenville, SC 29611

864.269.1232

office@gilstraproofing.com

How old is your home and roof?  Most asphalt shingle roofs last 20-25 years.  If your roof is over 20 years old you may need to have it inspected by a professional roofing company.  January-February in the South is a great time to re-roof your home.  Mild southern winters make for the perfect time to undergo roof repairs and replacement.  You will not only get ahead of the rainy spring and storms, but you will find a professional roofing company that can accommodate your needs.

If your shingles are coming loose, or falling it’s time to have your roof inspected by a professional.   They will inspect your roof and attic checking for leaks, faulty shingles, nail pulls, facia gaps, cracked valley’s, aging vent pipe flashing and much more.

A professional roofing company can also verify if your roof has experienced hail, wind, or storm damage potentially saving you money through insurance claims.  

If you have spotted multiple missing or loose shingles it could be a sign of an aging roof that requires immediate attention.  Cracked valley’s and warped facia are signs of potential water damage and an aging roof.

If your garage door is the biggest entryway to your home think of the roof as that on steroids.  Your roof protects you from sun, heat, storms and the cold.  If it is aging it may not be providing the protection you need.  Most homeowners don’t think about their roof until there is a leak, or problem.  Regular roof inspections can prevent potential serious damage and provide you with the peace of mind you deserve as a homeowner.  

When you are ready to contact a roofing contractor pay close attention to their Better Business Bureau rating, Google Reviews, their liability and workman’s compensation coverage as well as referrals from previous customers.  Due diligence and research will save you a lot of money and worry in the long run.  

A new roof quote will also take into consideration your current roof ventilation system.  If you have an aging roof or home, chances are that you are not getting the ventilation of modern roofing which is vital to your heating and cooling utility bills.  For example, your roof may not include soffit ventilation, roof ridge ventilation or gable ventilation.  A professional roofing company can assess your current roofing system and make recommendations that can save you a lot of money on energy bills.  

Make sure you contact a licensed, insured/bonded and reputable professional roofer.  Ask for references and check online reviews as well as the BBB.

At Gilstrap Roofing we have been serving the Upstate longer than any other roofing contractor accredited by the Better Business Bureau, spanning four generations.  We live, work and play here so we have a lot at stake when it comes to providing quality roofing with certified crews.  We regularly perform roof inspections for these and other kinds of issues.  Contact us today.  

Brian Gilstrap, President  

Gilstrap Roofing

Greenville, SC 29611

864.269.1232

office@gilstraproofing.com

In the south December is the perfect time to investigate and inspect your roof well before frigid temperatures hit and you lose a lot of heating dollars on something that can be repaired.  In recent years we have had very mild December months and it’s been a bonus for roof work.  

Now is the perfect time to call your professional roofing company and have them walk the roofline and inspect for any damage, or problems before it gets really cold and we have those occasional snow or ice storms.  Doing it now will save a lot of time, money, and potential heartache in the very near future.

Ask your professional roofer to walk the roof inspecting nail pops, loose or torn shingles, missing shingles, cracked valleys, seals, or flashing that is pulling away.   Ask them to check in your attic for any signs of water ingression, leaks, or wood rot.  If you have noticed a significant increase in your utility heating bill it could be that you have a roofing or insulation issue in the attic and it is costing you money.  A professional roofing contractor can make that determination without tying up a lot of your time too.  

You may have one or more small issues that can be repaired without replacing the entire roof.  Getting out in front of potential problems before bad weather comes will be an asset for upcoming seasons when you count on your roof to shelter and insulate your family.   

Snow, ice, and water are hard on roofs, and the older your roof the more susceptible you are to leaks.  Ice dams can form on roofs causing water to back up because it cannot drain properly.  Flashing and chimney issues can be taken care of as you will be using your chimney and furnace (vent piping) demanding more of your roof in those specific places.  Loose facia boards, drip edge, or sagging soffits can also be addressed without major expense.  

Remember to make sure you ask around when securing a reputable professional roofing contractor.  Check Google Reviews, their BBB rating, and ask them to provide references from previous customers.  Also, inquire about their liability and workman’s compensation insurance coverage protection to make sure they have the proper amount in case of an emergency, or accident.  

There’s a jolly old man and reindeer that will appreciate a December inspection too!  Have a safe, healthy holiday season.  Merry Christmas from the Gilstrap family and team.

Brian Gilstrap, President  

Gilstrap Roofing

Greenville, SC 29611

864.269.1232

office@gilstraproofing.com

Images Courtesy of Unsplash.com

There are so many things to consider when buying a home.  Are you going to build, buy a spec home, an existing house, a new neighborhood, or an established one?  Which side of town, basement, deck, or patio, pool or no pool?  Kitchen size, layout and how long will you be in it?  These are all important questions in addition to the area, schools, amenities, accessibility, and more.  Having a solid and experienced realtor is a great first step.  However, he/she is going to want to know some basics in terms of location, house preferences, and your needs.  

There are pros and cons to buying a new or preexisting home.  Much of it is personal preferences and being in the right place at the right time.  And the market will have a big impact on your selection too.

Homes, like cars, can break down over time.  Think about the number of moving parts in a home on everything from garage doors, closets, doors, and cabinets to opening and closing windows.  Everyone wants to be able to buy a pre-owned car that has a long track record of solid maintenance so they know what they are getting.  Real estate is a different story.  If there have been multiple owners you do the best you can in researching the condition of major issues in hopes of heading off an expensive home improvement during the first few months of moving into the home.

While you can’t put an entire house under an x-ray or run a scope to search for “code” issues like you can in a vehicle, you can go over the home with an expert.  Nearly all FHA, VA, and USGA home loans require an inspection by a state-certified inspector.  A home inspection is like letting a doctor giving you a complete exam.  They will check the electrical service coming into the home, wiring and breaking panels for proper amperage, water pressure, plumbing, foundation, and basements, attics, appliance operations, outlets, and the roof.  They are looking for structural and safety issues as much as anything because no house is perfect.

The average life of an asphalt shingled roof is 25-30 years if it has been maintained and been free of storm damage.  Curled, cracked shingles and valleys along with attic signs of previous water leaks are not a good thing.  However, as professional and diligent as most home inspectors are there can be underlying damage that only a roofing professional can find, or assess.  More than one home inspector has been fooled on roofing assessments and analysis.  If you know it going into the purchase you can leverage the replacement cost against closing costs, or reductions in the price.  However, too many homeowners have their personal story of having to replace a roof within the first 18 months of owners without being prepared to do so.

This isn’t to say anything negative about home inspectors.  An overwhelming number of them get it right.  But if you have any doubts about the condition of a roof on a home you are considering take the extra step and contact a professional roofing contractor.  Ask them to walk the roof, tour the attic, and give you their professional opinion.  More than once a professional roofer has discovered storm damage on the roof of a house for sale that the homeowner was unaware of.  Enter the home seller’s insurance company.  These professionals look for signs of aging, shingle nail tears allowing water ingression, curled shingles, drip edge, gutter, or ventilation issues that are causing problems.  Many of them can be rectified without replacing the entire roof within that first year.  And many homebuyers go ahead and purchase a property knowing the need for a roof replacement and including it in their overall budget.  

Reputable and established roofing contractors will perform an inspection at your request because they usually get the job for replacement or repair.  However, they also care about people and homeowners.  It’s why they do what they do!  A roof replacement is one of the biggest expenses you can incur when purchasing a home, but it’s also relative to the protection, safety, and insulation it provides during extreme weather and weather-related events.  Next to your garage door, the biggest opening to your residence is the roof.  If you look at it from a 3-D comparison with the walls and other entry points you would see the roof covers the entire house, not just a portion thereof.  

And established companies back up their workmanship with warranties in addition to the individual material warranties for shingles, etc.  Companies that care aren’t out to fool customers because they don’t need to for business.  They are locally owned and operated which means they have a vested interest in the community in which you are about to purchase a home.  The name on the side of their truck means much more than a single roofing job!

Gilstrap Roofing has been covering the roofing needs of the Upstate since 1935.  We are a family-owned, local business.  We are proud of our BBB and Angie’s List ratings.  Contact us today for all your roofing questions and needs.

Brian Gilstrap, President  

Gilstrap Roofing

Greenville, SC 29611

864.269.1232

office@gilstraproofing.com

Assessing a new roof is something you need to consult with a professional.  You may know that your home is due for a new roof, but the only way to make that determination is to have a professional roofing company inspect your current roof and evaluate its condition.  

A new roof is going to involve a lot of materials and labor.  You have to consider wood, shingles, asphalt, roofing paper, and the labor involved to install it.  You can estimate your job from the type of shingles you prefer and the scope of work to be done.       However, until a professional roofer walks your roof, inspects, and analyzes it you will never know the full details.  Reputable professional roofers will not recommend a new roof unless you need it so let a pro make the call.

Once the contractor has made the determination you need a new roof whether from age or storm damage it’s time to start considering what you want in terms of a finished roof.  Not all shingles are the same and not all shingles are priced the same.  A professional roofing contractor can help you select the best shingles, type, color, and shingle manufacturer for your roofing needs.  

Roofing isn’t cheap.  It’s labor and materials intensive.  Every roof is different from the next one so don’t base your roofing job on your neighbors.  You may have wood rot and underlying issues that are not known until your roofer begins to tear into your existing roof.  Every step is determined by the age of your current roof, any leaks, damage to existing underlying roof decking, gutter slope, drainage, and more.  

A professional roofer will provide a price per square which translates into 100 square feet of roof space.  The roofing contractor will need to consider the cost per square based on the cost of the shingles you choose, additional protective measures for the roof, overall supplies, and the labor.

Your shingle choice will play an important factor in the overall cost of the job.  Asphalt shingles are typically the cheapest and as you move up the ladder tile and slate are on the higher cost end.  

Keep in mind that your roofer will most likely need to remove your existing roof which will factor into the labor cost of the total job.  If there is wood rot underneath the existing shingles your roofer is going to have to replace those sections with new wood.  This will increase the labor cost, but you don’t want to put down new shingles on a roof deck that has any wood rot, or humidity damage.  Most professional roofers can assess this in their quote.  

Once you select a shingle style and color the roofer can order the necessary materials for the job.  An asphalt shingle roof is going to be somewhere in the ballpark of $5,000+ however if you choose to go with a metal roof it’s going to last longer but the initial investment is going to be more than asphalt shingles.  Metal roofing is much more durable and sustainable than asphalt shingles.  The cost will depend on the quality of metal you choose for your roof.  

Slate, tile, and wood shake roofs are going to be more expensive because of the labor and cost of the actual materials.  Each roofing product as its advantages and drawbacks from installation to maintenance and lifecycle.  This is ultimately a homeowner’s decision.  

When choosing colors for roofing materials lean into your roofing professional.  They know what look, texture, and feel accompany the tenor and tone of a home.  The last thing you want to do is spend thousands of dollars on a roof that is going to hurt you on a resale of the home.  You want the roof to coordinate with the rest of the look and feel of your home.  It should complement the home and not detract from it.

At Gilstrap Roofing we have been advising roof installation and installing new roofs in the Upstate of South Carolina since 1935.  We are a local and family-owned business that takes great pride in our record with the BB and other local ratings.  We treat your roof like it was our own.  Call, or contact us today for all of your roofing needs.

Brian Gilstrap, President  

Gilstrap Roofing

Greenville, SC 29611

864.269.1232

office@gilstraproofing.com