When you're facing a roof replacement, the debate between traditional shingles and metal roofing is sure to come up. Some folks are totally sold out on metal roofing with its nostalgic sound on rainy days and its classic look, while others prefer to stay mainstream and stick to the look of shingles that match their neighbors (and are approved by their HOA). We've written plenty of content about shingles and traditional roofing materials, but what are our thoughts on metal roofs? EZ Roofing Systems provides installation services for both types of roofing, so we feel confident when we say we provide a relatively comprehensive list of pros and cons about opting for metal.

So, why should, or shouldn't, you choose metal when you're planning a roof replacement?

Pros

The pros of installing a metal roof, besides the aesthetic component, is the longevity and durability. Metal roofing is known to last up to 70 years, and in Florida's intense weather, that's a big deal! In addition, it can withstand strong winds and resists breakdown and cracking over time, which better protects your home. If that wasn't enough, a metal roof is environmentally friendly! Your new metal roof could lower your energy costs by as much as 25% since it reflects the sun's heat and keeps your home cooler, and since all the materials are recyclable, your roof can be reused at the end of its life cycle protecting your home.

Cons

The primary con when evaluating metal roofs is the COST. A good quality metal roof can be double (or more!) the price of a traditional, shingled roof. This is an important factor for many homeowners, as saving for a roof can take years, and this would add a significant amount of time. If you're already facing a degrading roof and need a replacement fast, a metal roof might not be feasible. In addition to the price, the lack of flexibility (literally and figuratively) could play into your decision. Because metal roofing lasts a long time, you could face having to color match it if you add onto your home or if you end up with an unexpected repair following an accident or hurricane. It's much harder to match metal roofing, especially if it has been years since the original installation.

Do you have questions about metal roofing? Are you wondering what would work best for your budget and your home? We're here to help! Feel free to get in touch with our team and schedule an estimate, where we'll discuss your options and begin the process toward your new roof. EZ Roofing Systems is proud to serve the Central Florida area with roof inspections, repairs, and replacements. We offer competitive pricing, honest and reliable service, and the best in customer care. Call us!

Is your roof approaching its "expiration date" in the coming year? Did you recently receive an inspection that suggested a replacement in the near future? We get it, roof replacements are expensive, and you're likely thinking through how long you can put it off. With prices of goods soaring and many people feeling the crunch, replacing your roof probably wasn't on your short list of things to pay for. However, now might actually be the best time to take the leap and have the work done. Why?

• Supply delays are happening. If you've noticed empty spaces on your store shelves, you're not alone! Unfortunately, some of those same supply issues have hit the roofing industry, and sourcing the materials needed to replace your roof will likely take longer than usual. If you're trying to meet a deadline with your HOA, your insurance company, or are experiencing a worsening leak, you might not have time to wait! Getting started now means you're more likely to get the materials you need by the time your new roof needs to be completed.

• Your new roof isn't the only thing going up! Prices of gasoline, food, lumber, and other high-demand items are through the roof (pun intended!) and roofing materials are no exception. Shingles, plywood, and other needed supplies have all increased in price substantially over the last year, and sources say they'll continue to rise. Opting to replace your roof now means you lock in the current price of materials instead of taking the gamble and paying twice as much for your roof in the months to come.

• Hurricane season is still happening. If your roof is aged and weakening, it might not be ready to stand up to one of Florida's storms. If a hurricane comes our way this season, and you opted to put off your roof replacement, you could end up with major damage that necessitates a full replacement immediately. Unfortunately, the two factors above could make that a difficult and expensive process, adding more pressure to an already stressful situation. Being proactive and replacing now means you're more likely to make it through any storms unscathed.

EZ Roofing Systems is Polk County's trusted roofing company, with years of experience serving our community. We operate with honesty and integrity, which is why we want you to be aware of what's happening in the industry and make sure we help you plan accordingly to protect your home. Our affordable inspections make sure you're aware of issues before they become BIG problems, and when it's time for a repair or replacement, you know to call us first for the best in customer care and quality workmanship. Call for your FREE estimate!

As we have closed out the month of May and welcomed June, it's pretty much assumed at this point that we are officially in "summer" mode. In Florida, that means more than the end of school and planning for vacations...it also means hurricane season, routine thunderstorms, and HEAT. This can take a toll on your roof over time, and if you've skipped having routine inspections done in the past, now is the time to make up for it.

How exactly can summer put your roof at risk?

• Hurricanes. June 1st marked the kickoff of hurricane season 2021, and while there are no storms on the radar right now, we all know that can change in a matter of days. Hurricanes bring an incredible amount of rain, and in more serious cases, strong winds. These two elements alone can be detrimental to your roof even if it's in good shape, but if there are any weak spots or existing damage, even one minor hurricane could prove catastrophic. Things to watch for include loose or missing shingles, damaged flashing or roof vents, and clogged gutters if your home has them. Unfortunately, other issues that could leave your roof compromised can't be seen with the naked eye from the ground. That's why annual roof inspections or vital to protecting your home. Spots that are aging, or damage going on beneath the shingles, will be caught early and repaired before it has a chance to be a bigger (and more expensive) problem.

• Thunderstorms. Florida is known for its afternoon thunderstorms during the summer months. The lightning is impressive, but the RAIN is what really stands out. It can go from sunny to monsoon in a matter of seconds, and when your roof has to stand up to that heavy rain day after day for months, it can lead to leaks. What's more, the continued exposure to water can harbor moisture and condensation (including your attic!) and that can lead to the decay of wood and roof materials over time. Again, roof inspections are the best way to combat these problems, as professionals check for hidden moisture or weak areas that you might not see on your own.

• Heat. The Sunshine State got its name for a reason. The sun is intense, and our summers are hot. The extreme temperatures take a toll on your roof after a while. Shingles break down more quickly in Florida, and a roof that should last 30 years might only make it to 15. Taking measures to extend the life of your roof saves you money in the long run, and also protects your home (and your home's insurance policy) when bad weather does come your way. When it is time to replace your roof, hiring a roofing contractor that has your best interests at heart and runs and honest, ethical business, is key. You need someone who will help you choose the best materials for the job, and is experienced with Florida's conditions, so you will get the maximum number of years out of your new roof.

  EZ Roofing Systems is proud to serve the greater Polk County community with the very best in customer care and quality service. We provide roof inspections, repair services, and full replacement options for homes of all sizes and styles. We put your needs first, giving you an honest and accurate report, and working with you to find the best solution for our needs and your budget. Give us a call to schedule your inspection and to receive a detailed estimate for your roof.

So the time has come to replace your roof, you've contacted your preferred roof contractor (if you're in the Winter Haven area, we hope it's us!) and now you're clear and ready to go, right? Not necessarily. Once you choose your roofer, you'll need to work alongside their team to decide on the type and color of shingles (and other roofing materials) you'd like for your new roof. Many neighborhood HOAs in Florida give homeowners a limited list to choose from, but even within a small color palette the decision can be hard. Perhaps the biggest question one must ask is, does the color of your shingles affect their function, or is it simply a cosmetic choice? 

This answer is still up for debate with some roofers, but there are a few facts to consider: 

First, light colors are scientifically proven to reflect light and heat. If you follow this line of thought, that means lighter colored shingles reflect more light, absorb less heat, and leave your roof (and the home underneath it) cooler. What does this mean for you as the homeowner? Less heat means your AC doesn't have to work as hard to cool your home, thus lowering your energy bill over time.

Additionally, if lighter colored shingles absorb less heat and reflect light, it would seem that they last longer (cooler shingles = less molecular activity and therefore less wear and tear). However, studies have yet to show any significant difference in the lifespan of light shingles vs. dark. so you shouldn't make this your primary deciding factor when choosing a new roof color. 

Finally, regardless of which color you choose, ALL roofers will stress the importance of proper ventilation for your roof under our shingles. Proper ventilation prevents, moisture issues, allows for air circulation to cool your roof during the continual exposure to UV rays and heat from the sun, and will ultimately result in better performance by your roof all around. This is why choosing a qualified roofing contractor is SO important. A poor roof job could cost you thousands over time from water damage, breakdown of shingles and materials, etc. 

If you are in the local Winter Haven region, EZ Roofing Systems is here and ready to help you get the very best when it comes to a new roof. We have been trusted by Polk County locals for years, and will work with you to help you meet your needs, desired look, and budget. Give us a call for your quote! 

It goes without saying that a roof is a very important part of your home. In fact, your house wouldn't even BE a home without a roof overhead, since it offers shelter, protection from elements, insulation from the heat or cold weather, and basically, it just tops off your home (pun intended). Here in Central Florida, those aspects are key, since we have extreme heat and excessive sunshine, and we also endure heavy storms and rain during the summer months. Add in the threat of hurricanes and you see just how important a roof is for Florida homes, and how vital it is that homeowners maintain their roof and replace as needed to protect their investment in their house. 

Maintaining and replacing a roof though is not a wise DIY option. Roofing is not something you just pick up and learn as you go. An oversight, no matter how small, could result in major damage to your roof and long-term issues. Additionally, choosing a roofing expert affects your insurance, since using someone unqualified (including yourself) can mean loss of coverage, or failure to process a claim in the event of an accident or problem. 

So, how should you choose a roofer? 

Licensed and Insured.  This is, hands down, the most important part of choosing a roofer. Ask for those licensure numbers, and check them twice. If your roofer has the proper license and certifications, he or she will (usually) have the appropriate insurance as well, but it's always wise to check. These requirements protect you in the event that something goes wrong, or your roof has issues down the line. 

Experience. Much is learned through hands-on experience, and while a roofer who is new to the field can still do a great job, there is something reassuring about using a provider who has extensive experience. Look for a roofer who has been in business a long time, has experience in a variety of areas (not just maintenance for example, but also in roof repair and replacement), and is very well established in your community. 

Referrals.  Proof of the experience mentioned above comes through referrals. If they aren't provided up front, request referrals from your chosen rooferbefore you sign the deal and let him or her begin work on your home. Hearing from other customers firsthand lets you know what to watch out for with a particular roofing expert. Perhaps your prospective roofer does high quality work, offers great pricing, but is a little slow on the billing and paperwork side of things, or maybe they have crisp, efficient billing and work methods, but their personal demeanor is distinct and doesn't mesh well with everyone. Hearing things like this from others who have used a particular roofer can help you make an informed decision that you can feel confident in. 

If you are local to the greater Winter Haven area here in Central Florida, EZ Roofing Systems is here to help with any and all of your roofing needs. We are fully licensed and insured, have years of experience in our field, and are well-established in the Polk County community and beyond. We offer routine maintenance, repair services, and full roof replacement, so no matter your need, we're ready for it. Give us a call, and we'll personally come out and inspect your situation so we can give you a full and accurate quote. We make the whole process "EZ!"