Q. I am having a new roof put on, and I hear a lot of opinions about the right color to use. Some say dark, others say light is the only way, because it reflects heat. Is there any hard and fast rule that applies to color? Carol, Mt Cllemens, MI
A. Color is a matter of taste, so no rules apply. In Southern climes, light or white is best because it does reflect the long, intense heat of summer there. This does not apply in Northern climates, especially if the attic is well vented.
So it boils down to aesthetics, at least in the North. And if you want my opinion, which you asked for, black is the color of my truly loved house. Black tends to settle a tall house down, fooling the eye to sort of hug the lot. And it does even more for a one-story ranch, making it look like a natural part of the landscape. Light roofs make a house look rather blah.Good Luck, Murray
John, ice dams cause many thousands of dollars of damage for homeowners a year. To explain it simply, we must first understand when hot air rises it melts the snow on the roof and runs down to the eves and freezes, that’s when the problem starts with ice dames. I think it’s easier to show you on the PDF file I’ve posted. As you will see a lot of things are going on under your roofline. Good luck. Murray -- SEE HOW ICE DAMS FORM-- http://www.murraygula.com/IceDams.jpg
Bobson Construction has their exclusive Polybond Roof System guaranteed for 12 years. I have this roof on my own building and I just coated it with the new Elastromeric Coating which I know will make it last longer because it will protect it from the damaging UV rays from the sun. - Murray
The first thing is hiring a licensed well-established company that specializes in roofing. A roof is perhaps the most important home improvement a homeowner must consider. The roofing contractor should not only give you a quote but should also show you the many new improved designs and materials available today. A new roof put on by the right company that knows how to install, for instance a dimensional shingle will make the house look great. Thanks, Murray
When shingles reach a certain age in their life the first sign of wear is curling or cupping. You should have a company inspect not only the shingles but the ventilation as well to see if the cause is the shingle or heat on the underside of the deck causing this to happen. If you call Bobson Construction at 248-357-1240 their inspectors would be more than glad to validate your problem and to give you a price on a new roof. –Murray
Call an expert like Bobson Construction, to determine if a new roof is necessary or if it is possible to make a repair. (248) 357-1240. Good Luck. Murray
Q: I live in a wooded area and I’m sick and tired of climbing ladders to clean my gutters. I don’t feel safe doing it and it’s a really messy job that I don’t like. What options do I have to keep debris out of my gutters?
A: Budget Generators offers a few innovative, yet affordable solutions to your problem. Give them a call at 586-530-6118 or 248-722-5090 to set up an appointment so they can come out and explain which type of gutter protector is right for you. As a special bonus, when you have your gutter protection installed by Budget Generator they will thoroughly clean your gutter first at no extra charge. They can also repair any problem areas you may have while they are doing the installation. - Murray
Q: I am considering having a new roof installed on my home. What should I look for in a Roofing Contractor? -Barbara of Detroit, MI
A: The first thing is hiring a licensed well-established company that specializes in roofing. A roof is perhaps the most important home improvement a homeowner must consider. The roofing contractor should not only give you a quote but should also show you the many new improved designs and materials available today. A new roof put on by the right company that knows how to install, for instance a dimensional shingle will make the house look great. Thanks, Murray
Q: My shingles are curling – Do I need a new roof? –Doris of Birmingham, MI
A: When shingles reach a certain age in their life the first sign of wear is curling or cupping. You should have a company inspect not only the shingles but the ventilation as well to see if the cause is the shingle or heat on the underside of the deck causing this to happen. If you call Bobson Construction at 248-357-1240 their inspectors would be more than glad to validate your problem and to give you a price on a new roof. –Murray
Q: I have a very bad roof leak – What should I do? Joy. Detroit
A: Call an expert to determine if a new roof is necessary or if it is possible to make a repair. Be sure to contact your insurance company to see if the damage under the roof is covered under you insurance policy. I hope this helps. Murray Gula
For years, Metro Detroit has relied on Murray Gula and his firsthand knowledge of home improvement. Now Murray has brought together a team to help you with your home improvement problems. To find someone who can help, select a category from the list on the left, or click here to ask Murray a question!