Question & Answer: Can I re-shingle my home in the winter?

By Dave Locklear
dave@arrowstarroofing.com

One of the more common seasonal questions we receive in the roofing business here in Oklahoma City has to do with the seasonal limitations of roofing. Specifically, people regularly ask, “Can I re-shingle my home in the winter?”

The short answer is yes, you can… but certain guidelines and precautions should be followed by homeowners to ensure a proper roofing installation. Although roofing can be done almost any time of the year in Oklahoma (in dry weather, that is), December through February can be particularly tricky for contractors. Here are a few tips and guidelines for homeowners to ensure their projects are being completed properly:

1. When your material is delivered, take time to read the back of one of the shingle packages. Here you can find installation instructions, including best installation temperature and other relevant seasonal information. Keep an eye on your contractor as the job is being completed, and make sure they are following the instructions to the letter.
2. Each shingle has a sticky tar strip on its back that helps adhere it to the shingle below. This requires heat. In spring and summer, the adhesion process may only take a few hours. Obviously, in the winter, this may take several weeks. If you are roofing in extreme cold, a small daub of caulking cement may need to be added beneath each shingle to ensure proper adhesion.
3. Nail placement on shingles is critical in winter months. If nailed too high above the shadow lines, shingles can easily blow off during gusts of wind.

NOTES: As a rule of thumb, winter roofing projects are best completed when the temperature is 40°F or rising. Also, because roofing companies tend to be slower in winter months, homeowners can typically get better deals on their projects. If you are looking to save money on your roof and are willing to carefully monitor a contractor’s work, the choice to re-roof in wintertime can prove very advantageous!

My, How Roofing Has Come A Long Way

By David W Locklear, Owner
Arrowstar Roofing & Construction
www.arrowstarroofing.com

Ahh, how the roofing industry has come a long way since my family began roofing in 1942.

My grandfather, Harley Locklear, recalled that he and my grandmother, Nellie Locklear, completed their first commercial roof in 1942 when they melted tar (asphalt) in a barrel behind a building in western Oklahoma. According to the stories of my youth, they burned firewood under a barrel before carrying the black, boiling tar up a ladder in buckets.

My Father, Bob Locklear, later began helping his father in the roofing business, I can remember our first 2-ton truck was an R.E.O. truck.

Between the ages of 12 and 14, I began helping my dad in the hot tar business at a time when the firewood and barrels were gone and we utilized a small tar kettle with a kerosene burner, melting the tar before hoisting it to the roof with ropes and pulleys.

Our first “pumper kettle” came in about 1968. We really thought we were “up town”. In those days, a hail storm would hit a small town in Oklahoma and our company would go there and usually do every commercial building in town because there were few roofing companies in those days.

I can remember doing an entire school system in Leedy, Oklahoma. The Superintendent happily allowed our entire crew sleep in the gymnasium until the job was complete. A Day before we were to go home another damaging hail storm hit and we re-roofed the same area that we had just completed.

In those days we mopped on with hot tar. one ply of 30-pound perforated felt and flood coated the top. This was all the insurance companies would pay for.

When the mid to late 1970s came, modified bitumen (also known as rubber roofing) came along. Many roofing companies refused to put it on because it “was too good”. Hail could not penetrate it, which in turn caused you to lose repeat customers.

In those days the only shingles were 25year, 3-tab, mostly white, green, and red. The wealthier folks put on wood shingles… LOTS of wood shingles.

Most residential homes had 3, 4 & 5 layers of shingles on them because insurance companies never paid for tear-offs.

Yes, the roofing industry and insurance companies have camea long way. All for the better I might add.

Improving Curb Appeal While Protecting Your Home’s Value

Reposted Courtesy of the North American Precis Syndicate:

(NAPSI)-A roof does more than just keep the elements out. As one of the first things potential homebuyers see, it plays a large part in creating curb appeal.

The National Roofing Contractors Association recommends homeowners conduct seasonal roof inspections and be aware of their material options in case their roofs ever require repair or replacement. Each spring and fall, homeowners should clear debris from their gutters, check roof shingles for damage, inspect the areas around chimneys and pipes, and check walls and ceilings inside the home for water damage.

Shingles that are buckled, curled, blistered or missing an excessive amount of granules are likely at the end of their lives. So if it’s time to replace them, it is a good idea to consider such options as weather-resistant and environmentally friendly roofing shingles. Many roofing materials are engineered for impact resistance, and, as a result, homeowners who have them installed may be eligible for insurance premium reductions.

Choosing The Right Shingle

Shingle style plays a significant role in the overall look of a home, with the typical aesthetics of a roof affecting up to 40 percent of a home’s curb appeal. Vibrant and new shingle colors provide homeowners more and better roofing selections. Bold hues allow homeowners to coordinate eye-catching roofing with their siding or exterior accessories. For example, Landmark Solaris shingles from CertainTeed come in a variety of rich hues. Plus, these shingles can add a little green to the home-both environmentally and financially. Featuring roofing granules that reflect solar energy and radiate heat far better than traditional asphalt roofing shingles, they are ENERGY STAR certified, which helps earn homeowners valuable tax credits during tax season. During the summer months, these shingles can reduce the temperature of a roof, thereby reducing energy usage and utility bills.

Another option from CertainTeed is Symphony, a charming new slate-style roofing product that comes in three blends: Colonial Gray, a luxurious mixture of subtle gray; Capital Blend, a rich combination of gray, plum and green; and Evergreen, an eye-catching combination of green shades. This beautifully engineered polymer composite roofing product mimics the look and feel of traditional natural slate, yet is lighter and more durable and costs a fraction of the price. Plus, Symphony is an ENERGY STAR-rated product, and its contractor friendly design and lightweight material make it easy to install. For more about improving curb appeal and energy efficiency through roofing shingles, visit www.certainteed.com.

Seasonal roof inspections can help ensure that your home looks great and is properly protected against bad weather.

~ ~ ~

Arrowstar Roofing & Construction are proud installers of CertainTeed residential products. For more information, or to request a free estimate, please call us locally at 405-365-6577 or visit us online at ArrowstarRoofing.com.

Oklahoman & NewsOK.com Syndicate David Locklear and Arrowstar Story

We were lucky enough to receive a telephone call yesterday afternoon from Richard Mize, Real Estate Editor from the Daily Oklahoman, who was interested in reprinting an article recently penned by David W. Locklear, owner of Arrowstar Roofing & Construction. Most of our post, Property owners urged to be ‘Patient’, says Oklahoma City roofing contractor, was included on the back page of the Business section.

Here’s the link:

http://newsok.com/oklahoma-city-roofer-urges-patience-caution/article/3373423?custom_click=headlines_widget

For the original post, visit:

http://oklahomacityroofing.wordpress.com/2009/05/18/property-owners-urged-to-be-%e2%80%98patient%e2%80%99-says-oklahoma-city-roofing-contractor/

Arrowstar Roofing & Construction is an Oklahoma City based roofing contractor, bonded and insured with over 35 years experience and a family tradition in Oklahoma roofing since 1942. Specializing in commercial and residential roof repair and maintenance, Arrowstar is also qualified in the application of full-scale new roofing and re-roofing products including built-up, single-ply, TPO, PVC, EPDM, hot tar, Modified Bitumen, composition and wood shingling, tile roofs and more. For more information, visit www.arrowstarroofing.com or call (405) 365-6577.

Property owners urged to be ‘Patient’, says Oklahoma City roofing contractor

Arrowstar Roofing & Construction - Oklahoma Tornado and Storm Damage Experts

By David W. Locklear
Owner, Arrowstar Roofing & Construction

Due to the recent extreme wind and hail in various sections of the Metropolitan Oklahoma City area, Arrowstar Roofing would like to remind property owners to be patient in getting roof estimates from local contractors.

Our city has be inundated with out-of-town and ‘fly-by-night’ roofing companies, some from as far East as New Jersey.

These companies specialize in hailstorms around the United States. Some have unlimited advertising dollars, and many even rent local offices to provide more local legitimacy.

It’s important to deal locally, particularly when severe weather has residents in their most vulnerable, emotional states.

Key giveaways for spotting these ‘hail jumpers’ include out-of-state license plates on their vehicles, companies you’ve never heard of or companies in ‘close partnership’ with more local corporations, and – obviously – estimators’ accents that don’t quite seem to be Oklahoma native.

Most out-of-state companies will give from 3 to 5 year warranties, just like local companies. However, an important fact to remember is… when another hailstorm hits elsewhere in our great nation… these fly-by-nights will likely be gone upon hearing that first Weather Channel report.

What’s the downside to all this? You’re left with a worthless warranty… and often times a job that has used substandard (or used) materials or unqualified labor.

Remember to never pay more than one third to half of the total estimate as deposit prior to the work being started. Another good tip is to check area telephone books… a technique that allows you to assess whether or not the corporation has an established presence in the state of Oklahoma. Fly-by-night roofers almost never have Yellow Page or Business Directory ads.

Tornado Damage Strikes Oklahoma: Don’t let sever roof damage deteriorate your structure further

Arrowstar Roofing & Construction - Oklahoma Tornado and Storm Damage Experts

With recent catastrophic weather events lambasting our state, Arrowstar Roofing & Construction offers its heartfelt condolences to those individuals in the Lone Grove, Oklahoma area that have lost their entire livelihoods. We will keep them in our prayers… particularly those that have suffered tragic life looses with friends and family members..

We also realize that significant damage has struck the Yukon, Edmond and Northwest Oklahoma City. The thought of losing one’s home can be earth-shattering.

Please let us assure you that Arrowstar is fully committed to assisting Oklahoma residents during these difficult times.

In addition to emergency repairs, Arrowstar also offers complete commercial and residential roof replacement, repair and maintenance in the state of Oklahoma… particularly in the greater OKC Metro area. We’ve had over 30 years experience dealing with tragic acts of mother nature, and are fully committed to handling your needs in a quick, professional manner.

From hot tar, tar and gravel, TPO/PVC, EPDM, all types of shingling and more roofing options, we are more than happy to get your job done as soon as possible in a professional manner, using only experienced journeymen roofers.

Arrowstar offers free estimates, written warranties on all reasonable jobs, and is fully insured for your protection.

Don’t allow your roof to deteriorate further after this week’s catastrophic storms.

For a free estimate, or for more information on how we can assist you in this time of need, please log on to www.arrowstarroofing.com now.

“Green Roofs” help students make the grade

Though we strongly advocate eco-friendly roofing systems, Arrowstar Roofing & Construction strongly advises against attempting to plant a large garden atop your roof due to the potential of severe structural damage if work is not performed correctly. However, we found this article interesting (to say the least) from a roofing standpoint, and it does make a few good points. Enjoy!

NAPSI – From starting school-wide recycling plans to cleaning up area parks, today’s students get high marks when it comes to helping the environment. Now a new program may help their grades go through the roof.

The initiative teaches students in grades 6 to 8 about green roofs—a roof that replaces traditional roofing with a living environment of plants and soil.

Among the benefits they offer, green roofs remove pollutants from storm water and reduce the amount of water that flows into sewer systems. The plants also store excess carbon from the atmosphere, lower radiant heat in the summer and create habitats for local wildlife. Additionally, green roofs provide extra insulation to buildings and last two or three times longer than traditional roofs.

The American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) runs the program, called “The Roof Is Growing!” It provides a lesson plan, workbook and an online interactive program designed to engage students on how green roofs cool cities, clean the air, create habitats and control storm water.

Funded by a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts, the initiative is meant to inspire young students to think creatively and use their imaginations as future landscape architects or on any path they choose.

Of course, there are ways by which parents can get kids thinking green at home, too. Try these tips:

Make It Fun

Let your child decorate the recycling bins you have at home as you explain to her what items can and can’t be recycled. You might even arrange for you and your child to tour the area recycling facility.

Take A Walk

Take your child for a walk in the woods to help him gain a greater appreciation of nature. If he has a favorite animal or habitat (deserts, jungles, etc.), encourage him to learn more at the library, at school and online.

Lead By Example

Be sure to recycle and take steps to protect the environment on your own. Setting a good example at home can help build Earth-friendly habits in kids that last a lifetime.

For more information, visit www.asla.org/greenroof.

A new program teaches students about the environmental benefits of a “green roof.”

Brought to you by
Arrowstar Roofing & Construction

Extend a roof’s life expectancy with preventive maintenance

By Dave Locklear, Arrowstar Roofing

(Originally published in OKC Friday)

You had leaks for years, but finally installed a new roofing system and now you won’t have to worry about anything for several years, right? Wrong….

Preventive maintenance should start the day the roof is completed. Proactive and preventive maintenance will extend the life of your roof and save you money in the long run.

A lot can happen to a roof in six months to one year, especially in Oklahoma. Not only is Oklahoma’s weather extreme, but we are a state that does not require roofing companies to have a state license like plumbers, electricians, etc. We have to solely accept the fact that our roofer has installed the roof according to manufacturer’s specifications and he’s honest.

With over 30 years experience in the roofing industry, I can tell you that every roof that is at least 2-3 years old requires some maintenance every year. Roofs need cleaning off each year to remove debris, cans, etc. that will end up in drains, clogging them up.

Simple roofs usually require pipe boot replacement after just a few years due to the poor quality of the material. Although some states require pipe jacks be made out of lead, Oklahoma does not. Lead will last longer than the roof will.

The most important step to protecting your roof is Spring and Fall inspections. The fee for this is usually minimal.

With preventive maintenance being so important you would think roofing companies would have a repair/maintenance division, but few do. Most only want to install new roofs.

After visiting with a customer recently and telling him of the importance of maintaining his roof instead of always installing a new roof, I explained, “If you had a leak under your sink and a plumber came over and said, ‘Well, it’s sure leaking—we’ll have to replace the plumbing in the whole house.’” The customer chuckled and said, “Of course not.” However, many roofers convince homeowners they need a new roof when they really only need a little repair and maintenance.

Many commercial flat roofs can be maintained by applying coatings, if done within 3 to 5 years. This process can extend the life, in some cases, indefinitely, as well as reflect heat and UV radiation.

The most important thing to remember about your roof is, don’t forget about it and get a qualified roofing professional to Inspect, Inspect, Inspect…

Is your Oklahoma City roof leaking? Here’s what you need to know on fixing it…

Just because Oklahoma’s spring storm season has passed does not necessarily mean you can breathe a sigh of relief when it comes to your home’s most vital element: its roof.

Whether you’re a homeowner or business owner here in the Oklahoma City Metro or surrounding area, now may be the best time to think about potential winter and fall roof leaks.

Central Oklahoma’s notorious winds, combined with the hundred-plus degree temperatures we’ve experienced in the summer of 2008 could spell for trouble when fall brings about late-year Oklahoma showers and thunderstorms.  Even the best roofs are subject to cracking, shingle slippage and water pooling that could cause water to enter your home or office.

That’s not even to speak of winter, when snow and ice, regular freezing and unfreezing of water atop your structure can turn a minor leaks into major repair issues.

If you find your property leaking, give us a call at (405) 365-6577 or request a free estimate at arrowstarroofing.com. Arrowstar Roofing & Construction has over 35 years experience in roofing, repair and maintenance in Oklahoma’s tricky climate. Single leak repairs begin at only $175, and are guaranteed through written warranties for a full year. We can also assist you with deteriorating roof flashing, replacement of vents and skylights, and even vinyl siding for equally cut-rate fees.

David Locklear, owner of Arrowstar Roofing & Construction, clarifies the importance of regular roof repair and maintenance.

“We believe the biggest problem in the roofing industry is the lack of companies stressing the importance of regular roof maintenance,” Locklear says. Regular roofing maintenance and repair, he states, has shown to prolong the lives of most roofs as much as 50 percent.

Even if your home isn’t currently leaking, you still have options for ensuring the continued integrity of your Oklahoma City property’s roof. A quarterly, biannual or annual maintenance contract through a reputable roofing company can prolong the life of your roof and provide you regular, detailed information about its status.

Arrowstar Roofing & Construction’s maintenance contracts can be negotiated for a nominal fee to include automatic quarterly, biannual or annual inspection of your residential or commercial property. Under Arrowstar’s maintenance contracts, a trained professional will come and inspect your property’s roof at the recurrence of your choice and perform a full, detailed inspection. Also included in Arrowstar’s maintenance contracts are minor repairs performed to roof drains, vents, wall and pipe flashings, and full cleaning of debris from the roof that can clog drains and gutters.

At the end of a maintenance contract inspection, Arrowstar will e-mail or deliver full written summaries and technical reports to the customer along with photos of potential problems, if any, and recommendations/estimates for additional maintenance work if required.

As a bonded and insured company with its family roots in Oklahoma, you can also trust that Arrowstar will stick by its promises. We live here. We’re Oklahomans just like you. Arrowstar Roofing & Construction will still be here when you do have a warranty or service-related issue, and generally ensure your overall satisfaction as an Arrowstar Customer.

The point, however, is that fall and winter as just as important seasons for Oklahoma roof maintenance as is the spring storm season. If your roof is leaking, or if it’s just been a while since you last checked its condition, Arrowstar advises regular maintenance and/or inspection through a qualified Oklahoma City roofing contractor to ensure the continued well-being of your home or business roof… and ultimately… all that rests beneath it.

For more information, call (405) 365-6577 or visit arrowstarroofing.com.

OKC Homeowners: Is your roof ready for winter?

Your Central Oklahoma home’s roof is the first line of defense against rain, snow, cold air and harsh weather. To keep it in top shape, experts recommend performing a roof inspection twice a year.

Look for missing shingles or deteriorated flashing (the metal that seals bends and joints on skylights, chimneys, etc.). More than 90 percent of roof damage occurs in these two areas and catching it early can be key to preventing bigger problems. Try these additional tips:

When To Inspect

Check your roof in spring, and then again in the fall or winter, before the worst weather seasons set in.

What To Look For

• Examine the roof edge for wind damage or damage caused by driving rain and ice dams. The dams occur when water freezes and backs up under the roofing system.

• Inspect your roof for signs of mold, algae and mildew growth. Signs include dark spots and discoloration on the shingles.

Roof Maintenance

Leaves, sticks and other debris can cause water to back up and flow under a roof, so be sure to clean out your gutters and roof drains regularly. Also be sure to check that all gutters are securely fastened to the house and that downspouts are pointing away from your home.

If You Spot Damage

If your inspection reveals roof damage, be sure to work with professional roof contractors who are bonded, insured and use quality materials. They can keep you from having to spend money on costly future repairs and prolong the life of your roof.

Arrowstar Roofing & Construction is fully bonded and insured, offering free estimates for home and business owners in the Metro Oklahoma City and surrounding area. With over 35 years experience as third-generation roofing professionals, Arrowstar is more than capable of identifying key roof and structural problems that it can address through budget-friendly repair, maintenance and re-roofing options.

Inspecting your roof twice a year can protect your home from serious Oklahoma weather damage. If you’re not confident—or unable—to inspect your roof personally, Arrowstar Roofing & Construction also offers annual maintenance contracts. According to your needs, Arrowstar will come out yearly, biannually or quarterly to inspect your roof for damage. In addition to providing you with a detailed written report of your roof’s condition, we’ll also clear your roof and gutters of all debris and perform minor repairs as part of your maintenance contract… informing you if more serious work is potentially needed.

For a free estimate, or more information on Arrowstar’s annual maintenance contracts, log on to www.arrowstarroofing.com or call us today at (405) 365-6577.