Roofing

Your roof is one of the most important components of your home. It protects your family and your belongings from the elements, and it also plays a big role in the overall appearance of your home. If your roof is looking tired or damaged, it might be time to consider a replacement. A new roof can increase the value of your home, improve energy efficiency, and enhance curb appeal.

At Heartland Roofing Siding and Windows, we offer a variety of roofing materials to choose from, including asphalt shingles, and more. Our expert team will work with you to find the perfect solution for your needs and budget, and we’ll ensure that your new roof is installed properly for maximum durability and performance.

Siding

Your home’s siding is another important component that can have a big impact on the look and feel of your home. At Heartland Roofing Siding and Windows, we offer a wide range of siding options, including vinyl, fiber cement, and wood. Our expert team will work with you to find the perfect solution for your needs and budget, and we’ll ensure that your new siding is installed properly for maximum durability and performance.

Windows

Your windows play a big role in the energy efficiency of your home, as well as its overall appearance. At Heartland Roofing Siding and Windows, we offer a variety of window options, including vinyl, fiberglass, and wood. Our expert team will work with you to find the perfect solution for your needs and budget, and we’ll ensure that your new windows are installed properly for maximum energy efficiency and performance.

In conclusion, improving your roofing, siding, and windows is a smart investment that can have a major impact on the look and functionality of your home. At Heartland Roofing Siding and Windows, located in the greater Minneapolis, MN area, we specialize in helping homeowners improve these areas of their homes. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help you enhance your home’s curb appeal, energy efficiency, and resale value.

The good news is, if you are looking to replace your roof, Siding, or windows for any reason, we can help you navigate the insurance process and get you the coverage you need to get the job done. We will work with you and your insurance company during the claims process and recommend the best action plan. Plus, you can get peace of mind with our wonderful warranties that cover your roof for years to come. Contact Heartland Roofing Siding and Solar right away to get your FREE roofing quote!

References:

• “The Importance of Proper Roofing Installation” by Angie’s List, https://www.angieslist.com/articles/importance-proper-roofing-installation.htm
• “Siding: A Guide to the Options” by This Old House, https://www.thisoldhouse.com/siding/21016673/siding-a-guide-to-the-options
• “Window Energy Efficiency Ratings Explained” by ENERGY STAR, https://www.energystar.gov/products/building_products/residential_windows_doors_and_skylights/window_energy_efficiency_ratings_explained

While you can follow any order, at Heartland Roofing and Siding, we recommend starting from the upper part of the house and moving down. This means starting with roof repair or replacement, followed by new windows and then new sidings. With this simple approach, you will be preventing your new installations from getting damaged by other home improvements done during the project. For instance, if you started by replacing new sidings, they are likely to be damaged when you start working on the roof.

Step 1: Replace or Repair Roof
Repairing or replacing your roof will improve the general look of your home, increasing energy efficiency while adding significant safety and comfort. Being the outermost part of the house, starting with roof replacement will kickstart the project and give your home the new look. The new roof will increase the ability of your home to deflect heat and save on energy costs, keep the temperature inside the home cool for more comfort, and increase the safety and security of your family by shielding them from harsh weather.

Step 2: Install New Windows
Once you have replaced the roof, you can now move on to installing new windows. In fact, there is no better time to replace your windows than during a spring remodel. The new windows will help you achieve the aesthetic look you want for your home, air seal your home, and protect it from noise pollution. The new windows installation will ensure all the gaps have been sealed, adding more comfort to your home.

Step 3: Upgrade Sidings
Upgrading your sidings should come last on the list. Although this is the part that is often overlooked in home improvement projects, the siding on your home can provide unique charm and character. It also protects the interior structure of the home and prevents rainwater from entering the home. The focus here should be on fixing structural damage, achieving better curb appeal, and adding insulation to exterior walls.

Get Expert Assistance for Home Spring Remodel
There is no better time to remodel your home than Spring. If you are still in doubt, give us a call today and book a project consultation. At Heartland Roofing, Siding, and Solar, we aim to provide the best quality home improvement services to our clients in the Greater Minneapolis area. Our experts will guide you in every step from inspection to complete revamping of your home.

The good news is, if you are looking to replace your roof, or Siding for any reason, we can help you navigate the insurance process and get you the coverage you need to get the job done. We will work with you and your insurance company during the claims process and recommend the best action plan. Plus, you can get peace of mind with our wonderful warranties that cover your roof for years to come. Contact Heartland Roofing Siding and Solar right away to get your FREE roofing quote!

To help you protect your home throughout the year, here are our top winter roof maintenance tips.

1. Remove Any Snow Fall
   When it comes to winter roof maintenance tips, you can’t ignore the snow! While it can look gorgeous to have a home blanketed in white, if you let it sit for long, then it’ll start to play havoc on your roof. Snow, like ice, is hefty, and just a few inches will create a heavy load for your home to bear.
   
   If anywhere is even a little compromised, it could be at risk of significant damage. Remove all snow as quickly as possible to prevent it from leaving you with a roof that’s no use!
   
   2. Be Aware of Ice
   When it’s not snowing, you need to be aware of ice. Ice can also be heavy, but more than that, it can lead to an ice dam which is dangerous on any roof. As water on your roof flows towards your gutters and temperatures drop overnight, it freezes in and around the guttering. This can lead to a backup of any other water which can also freeze, causing damage to your shingles and creating leaks.
   
   Hire roof services to take care of ice for you. As it’s slippery, it’s best to call out a professional to deal with it for you to avoid any personal injuries.
   
   3. Fix Your Flashing
   If you’re looking into roof care during the winter, don’t forget your flashing. Even if it was put in correctly just a few years ago, flashing could quickly become loose or warped, leading to many problems.
   
   Broken flashing can allow snow and icy water to enter your roof, leading to potential leaks inside your home. Not ideal! Carry out a check on your flashing before the cold weather hits to reduce the chance of issues.
   
   This also applies to your roof shingles. If any of your shingles look as though they’ve moved or chipped, call roof repair services to inspect and fix them.
   
   4. Check Your Gutters Regularly
   If you have a problem with ice and snow, your gutters are usually the first place that you’ll see problems. Check them regularly for build-up and ice dams. In general, if you see icicles hanging from your gutters, you are likely to have a problem, and the area needs clearing.
   
   If you leave your gutters to fill with ice, they’re going to have much more weight than they can handle and become weak. In worst-case scenarios, they can come away from your home and cause a lot of structural damage, leading to a large repair bill.
   
   Try and keep yours clear before any major damage.
   
   5. Don’t Underestimate Wind Damage
   Snow and ice are the most pressing weather matters you need to be aware of but don’t underestimate the wind. Heavy winds and storms are common in the colder months, and they can cause just as many problems!
   
   After heavy wind, inspect your roof for any signs of damage. Look for broken or missing shingles, check to make sure your gutters are still working, and do a general review of the area. If left unchecked, these can lead to vulnerable spots for leaks, so get them repaired quickly!
   
   6. Keep an Eye on Your Attic
   The state of your attic is directly linked to the condition of your roof. If you don’t go up there often, you may miss signs of leaks and other issues until they’ve caused many problems, which you don’t want!
   
   You also need to ensure your attic has excellent ventilation and insulation. You may not realize it, but these two things can have a direct impact on your roof and leave them more exposed to the elements. When conducting roof maintenance, head into your attic to ensure there are clear routes for ventilation and your insulation is working as it should.
   
   7. Clear Any Debris
   Debris can wreak havoc on your roof, especially in the winter! Before storms start to roll in and snow comes down, be sure to check your roof and surrounding areas (such as gutters and downspouts) for debris. You want them to be completely free of leaves, stones, pine needles, and any other loose items that can accumulate on the surface.
   
   If you can clear all this debris before a storm hits, the moisture doesn’t have as much to grip onto and soak. If there is debris, the items will likely become sodden and rot, leading to roof damage.
   
   Use a broom or rake to keep your roof clear in the autumn and throughout winter. Trust us; the extra work will be more than worth it!
   
   Call in the Professional to Help with Roof Maintenance
   
   Roof maintenance isn’t an easy task during any time of the year, but winter poses more challenges than usual. If you’re not comfortable being on your roof or with your home repair skills, call a professional. If your asphalt roof is older than 15 years, it may be time to replace it. While this is a significant expense, the National Association of Realtors reports that on average, homeowners recover a generous 105% of this cost when selling their home.
   
   The good news is, if you are looking to replace your roof for any reason, we can help you navigate the insurance process and get you the coverage you need to get the job done. We will work with you and your insurance company during the claims process and recommend the best action plan. Plus, you can get peace of mind with our wonderful warranties that cover your roof for years to come. Contact Heartland Roofing Siding and Solar right away to get your FREE roofing quote!

According to houselogic.com, here is what you want to look for: 

• cracked caulk or rust spots on flashing. 
• buckling, curling, or blistering shingles as well as any missing or broken shingles; 
• cracked and worn rubber boots around vent pipes.
• masses of moss and lichen, which could signal decay below; and 
• piles of colored grit from asphalt roof tiles in the gutters. 

Off the roof, you always want to be vigilant of signs of roof leaks which include: 

• dark spots on ceilings. 
• peeling paint underneath roof overhangs. 
• damp spots next to fireplaces; and 
• water stains on pipes that vent your water heater or furnace. 

It’s relatively easy and inexpensive to replace shingles and caulk flashing yourself. Be sure to also replace any rusty or failing flashing and vent boots. Recaulk any separated flashing around chimneys, skylights, and the attic vent. While on your roof in the fall, also apply a moss killer – make sure it is one intended for rooftops, as those for lawns contain iron which will stain your roof.

If you’re not comfortable being on your roof or with your home repair skills, call a professional. If your asphalt roof is older than 15 years, it may be time to replace it. While this is a significant expense, the National Association of Realtors reports that on average, homeowners recover a generous 105% of this cost when selling their home. 

The good news is, if you are looking to replace your roof for any reason, we can help you navigate the insurance process and get you the coverage you need to get the job done. We will work with you and your insurance company during the claims process and recommend the best action plan. Plus, you can get peace of mind with our wonderful warranties that cover your roof for years to come. Contact Heartland Roofing Siding and Solar right away to get your FREE roofing quote! 

How Long Does a Roof Last?

Roof’s aren’t built to last forever, but some can get close. Different roofing materials last longer than others. Here is the expected lifespan of each roofing type:

Asphalt Shingles: 15 to 30 Years Asphalt shingles are the most used roofing material in America and last for around 20 years on average. This doesn’t mean that a roof will need to be replaced at this time, but it does play into your insurance rates and coverage because 20 years is close to being considered “old”.

Flat Roof: 20 to 50 Years There are many different types of flat roofing materials, but for the most part, you can expect a flat roof to last anywhere from 20 to 50 years. The life expectancy of a flat roof is mainly dependent on its material and how it’s installed and maintained over time.

Wood Shakes: 35 to 40 Years Wood shakes are incredibly durable, but only when they’re properly maintained. Wood shingles tend to last around 35 to 40 years on average before needing replacement, if you maintain them and let any damage go unfixed for too long, you should be set for a while.

Metal Roofing: 50 to 75 Years Metal roofing is an increasingly popular alternative to asphalt shingles. It’s incredibly durable and costs less than other types of roofs, but it lasts longer as well — around 50 years on average, but up to 75 years with proper installation and maintenance.

How Does the Age of My Roof Affect Insurance Rates and Coverage?

There are three different ways your roof can significantly affect your insurance premiums. The age, condition, and location of your roof can all affect your insurance cost and coverage.

Your Roof’s Age: As we mentioned before, older roofs are usually more expensive to replace and insure. As your roof ages, your insurance premium may increase because your roof is at higher risk for damage every year, which costs the insurance companies more money when your damaged roof needs to be replaced. So, they may try to cover their butts by refusing coverage, raising rates, or even canceling your policy if your roof is years past its expected lifespan.

Your Roof’s Condition Regular wear and tear are unavoidable but maintaining the condition of your roof is critical to upholding its integrity and keeping your premiums low. A roof in poor condition is much more likely to have a claim denied. Damage due to negligence and wear and tear is seldom covered via a standard insurance policy, so you must take the necessary precautions to maintain it each year.

In fact, there are eight different insurance policies that cover different property types and coverage needs.

The eight types of homeowner’s insurance are:

• HO-1: The most basic type of insurance policy for single-family homes.
• HO-2: This policy is an upgrade from HO-1 policies, covering six more types of damage.
• HO-3: Most homeowners have an HO-3 policy with broader coverage than the previous two.
• HO-4: This policy type is for renters, not homeowners.
• HO-5: The most comprehensive policy and is the second most popular policy type for single-family homes.
• HO-6: This policy type is strictly for condominium owners.
• HO-7: This policy type is for those who own mobile or manufactured homes.
• HO-8: For homeowners who don’t meet any of the other standards, they can get an HO-8 policy that focuses more on the home’s actual cash value vs. the cost of replacement. It also covers much fewer instances of damage.

What You Can Do to Mitigate Risk

In summary, to combat higher insurance rates, you can:

• Perform regular inspections and maintenance
• Know when it is time to replace your roof
• Do your research before choosing a roofing material to avoid added costs or limited coverage
• Read your insurance policies very thoroughly, so you know what to expect

The good news is, if you are looking to replace your roof for any reason, we can help you navigate the insurance process and get you the coverage you need to get the job done. We will work with you and your insurance company during the claims process and recommend the best action plan. Plus, you can get peace of mind with our wonderful warranties that cover your roof for years to come. Contact Heartland Roofing Siding and Solar right away to get your FREE roofing quote!

Local Weather

The local weather determines the weather elements the roof will experience on a regular basis. Precipitation, in the form of snow, hail, and rain, are the major elements to worry about. Some pitches handle snow and rain better than others.

For example, a pitched roof makes sense if your area regularly experiences heavy precipitation. Hailstones, rainwater, or snow can easily slide off the roof. Apart from precipitation, the wind patterns in your locality also matter. With frequent heavy winds, you should opt for a relatively steep roof to reduce wind suction forces.

Roofing Materials

The type of roofing materials also determines the roof pitch. For example, flat or low-slopped roofs can have:

• Built-up roofing such as tar and gravel
• Rubber membrane
• Standing seam metal

Roofs with steep slopes can have:

• Asphalt shingles
• Wood shingles
• Slate tiles

The relationship between the pitch and material depends on various factors, such as water penetration. For example, asphalt shingles on a flat roof would allow water penetration, so the material is best for pitched roofs. Your roofing contractor will advise you on the best pitch for your chosen material.

Maintenance Considerations

All roofs require regular maintenance. However, the pitch determines the frequency, cost, and nature of these maintenance practices. For example:

• Pitched roofs rarely develop drainage problems
• Debris, such as tree leaves and windblown debris, easily accumulate on flat or low-slopped roofs
• Flat-or low-slopped roofs are easier to walk on during maintenance and repair

Talk to your roofing contractor about roof maintenance practices. That way, you will be able to prolong your roof’s lifespan irrespective of its pitch.

Attic Considerations

A pitched roof increases your house’s square footage if you include the attic. Most people use their attics as extra storage spaces. You can even finish the attic and use it as an extra bedroom, library, or playroom.

Even if you don’t use your attic, it can help you by regulating your home’s temperature. During the summer, the attic insulation minimizes heat penetration from outside. During the winter, the attic insulation prevents heat to escape from inside. You only get an attic in a roof with a suitable pitch. Thus, you must install a pitched roof if you need an attic.

Budget Issues

Flat or low-slopped roofs are cheaper to install than pitched roofs. For a pitched roof, you need your roofing materials to cover more surface area than they would in a flat roof. More materials mean increased costs. Secondly, the design and risk of a pitched roof raise the labor charges. Thus, your roofing budget can also affect your roof’s slope.

Rooftop Installations

Consider a flat roof if you plan to install things on your roof. Some of the things you can install on the roof include:

• Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) units
• Solar systems
• Gardens
• Rooftop patio

Some of these things, such as solar systems, also work on pitched roofs. However, they are easier to install on flat roofs.

Aesthetic Considerations

Lastly, your roof pitch also determines your home’s curb appeal. For many people, pitched roof designs look better than slow-roof designs. Besides, once you raise the pitch, you can experiment with more designs than you would with a flat roof. In the end, however, aesthetics is subjective, and you should choose what is best for you.

An experienced roofing contractor will give you more in-depth information on roof pitches and help you select the best pitch for your case. Heartland Roofing Siding and Solar have decades of experience in the roofing industry. Contact us today 800-681-4169 about your roofing needs so that we can advise you and install the best roof for you.

What Type of Credentials Does the Roofing Company Offer?

As a local and licensed roofing company, Heartland Roofing Siding and Solar can help homeowners appreciate the importance of finding a certified and insured roofing company.

Since your roof is one of the most integral elements of your home, you deserve to work with a professional roofing contractor that’s had extensive training and earned the industry qualifications required to handle any roofing problem, no matter how big or small.

Has the Roofer Earned Any Industry Accolades?

Several different professional organizations work alongside exterior home remodeling companies to evaluate their services. When you find a roofing company that’s earned accolades, membership, and titles from these establishments, it speaks well for their commitment to quality service.

For example, our award-winning team of local roofers has earned:

• BBB-accreditation
• National Roofing Contractors Association Membership
• The Title of an Owens Corning Platinum Preferred Contractor
• 5-Star Customer Rating
• Inc. 5000 Top Roofing Company in America

Does the Contractor Offer Detailed Inspections?

When someone tells you that you need a new roof or expensive roof repairs, it’s not always easy to know whether they’re honest or not. That’s why Heartland Roofing Siding and Solar conducts free comprehensive inspections of your property before any decisions are made.

As a part of this inspection, we’ll provide your videos and photographs of any problem areas our licensed roofers find.

What Type of Warranty Programs Do They Offer?

While many roofing materials companies, such as Owens Corning and GAF, provide quality warranties on their products, you need more than that. Make sure to hire a roofing company that also offers dependable warranty programs on their labor, as well.

Learn More About Finding the Best Minneapolis Roofing Company for Your Project

Not only is hiring a Minnesota roofing company a hard job to do, but it’s also an important one. That’s why it’s crucial to find a licensed and insured crew of roofers that will go above and beyond to assist you with your roofing needs.

If you’d like to learn more about what it takes to be a top-rated roofing company in the Greater Minneapolis area, give Heartland Roofing Siding and Solar a call today 800-681-4169.

Hail Storms And Your Roof
Hail occurs when cold air and drops of water in the atmosphere meet, causing small balls of ice to form and hit the ground. When it comes to your roof, hail is one of the most common causes of serious damage.

The scope of hail damage to your roof can include things like loose or broken shingles. The impact of heavy hail can cause the shingles to become dislodged or loosened, or it may even cause them to break off completely.

As soon as a shingle comes loose, it damages the seal between the shingle and the roof. Once that seal is broken, water can easily leak into your home.

Damaged shingles are also a common cause of mold growth and mildew. Once the mold or algae penetrates your roof, it can easily infiltrate your home, causing health problems and other issues.

Don’t ignore roof damage after a hail storm. If you do, you may experience drafts, difficulty keeping your home insulated, mold growth, or a leaking roof.

Check your gutters after a hail storm and look for signs of loose granules. The tiny granules will build up in the gutters, which is a clear indication that something is wrong, and that damage has likely occurred.

Once the hailstorm passes, you should contact a professional roof repair company right away. They can assess the damage, make recommendations for repair, and give you a complete report that you can give to your home insurance company if you need to file a claim.

The Consequences Of Hail Roof Damage
Storm damage to your roof can range from mild to severe, which often depends on the intensity and duration of the storm. Your roof is the home’s first line of defense against the elements, and that’s why any form of damage should never go ignored.

You might not even realize your roof is damaged by hail until years later when it starts to leak. To prevent this from happening, it’s best to contact a local roof repair service right away so they can locate any type of damage and make repairs before it gets out of control.

When hail hits the shingles on your roof, it can knock off some of the protective granules. As soon as these granules disappear, your roof is officially exposed to things like moisture, snow, and direct sunlight.

If a roof is exposed to the sun without protection, those exposed spots will become weak and brittle. This results in possible leaks that can plague you for years if they’re not fixed as soon as possible.

A roof leak can cause a myriad of problems including damage to your ceiling and walls. It can also cause electrical issues and may even pose the threat of a possible house fire.

Storm Damage To Your Roof And Homeowner’s Insurance
Most homeowners’ insurance policies will cover some or all of the cost to repair a roof after a storm. However, if you see roof damage and ignore it, the policy might not cover any more intense damage in the future.

As a homeowner, it is your responsibility to maintain your roof and to make any repairs or file a claim as soon as you see the damage. Failing to address the issues as they occur could cause your next claim to be denied.

If you wait until your roof collapses or until the leaks are out of control, you could end up stuck paying the repair bill. Therefore many major insurance carriers have a time limit when it comes to filing a claim. It’s best to contact your insurance company right away once you confirm there is storm damage to your roof.

Each type of storm and every season creates varying degrees and types of roof damage. A professional roof inspector will be able to tell whether the roof damage is new, or if it happened during an earlier time of the year or a previous storm.

Don’t wait to call the pros if you think your roof may have hail damage. The sooner you can contact someone to confirm the problem, the greater the odds are that your insurance claim will be approved.

Another reason not to ignore roof damage is that once it starts, things can “snowball” quickly. Something as minor as a few missing shingles can easily lead to serious leaks and other major problems fast.

Don’t Ignore Your Roof After A Storm
Whether it’s hail or a serious wind storm, you should never ignore roof damage, even if you think it’s minor. The sooner you can confirm there’s damage, the sooner you can make the necessary repairs to protect your property and your wallet.

Contact the best roof repair services near you to confirm the damage and to help you process a claim so that your home can get back to normal.

Hire a Professional to Install New Roofs
Installing new roofs is a worthy investment that will not only make your home look great, but also save money on energy costs. Heartland Roofing Siding and Solar offer roof inspection, replacement, and installation services in the Greater Minneapolis area. Give us a call today at 800-681-4169 for a free inspection and estimate or get useful advice from our roofing experts.

Saving Energy Costs with New Roofs
With energy costs expected to continue rising, installing a new roof can be a great way to reduce your electricity and gas usage. New roofs are more efficient than older ones, which are already outdated. Asphalt shingle roofs have a lifetime of 20 years in Minnesota. As they get older, the roofs lose their ability to keep out the heat in warm seasons. As a result, air conditioners or furnaces are forced to work harder, leading to higher utility bills. Installing new and modernized roofs will help you resolve this problem.

Roof Ventilation
Ventilation helps in regulating the airflow between the attic and roof. Since attics are largely unoccupied areas, they easily heat up during warm seasons, increasing the temperature of living spaces inside the house. If your house is poorly ventilated, it lacks enough airflow, and the heat forces its way into the attic. Installing a new roof allow more airflow, making it easier to keep the home cold during the hot summer months.

Solar Reflection
When your roofs effectively reflect solar light away, they make the house cooler and save energy. In fact, roofs with high solar reflection can cool the surface temperature by as much as 30%. If your roofs are old and cannot reflect sunlight away, the shingle will absorb the solar heat and transfer it to the living spaces below. Installing a new roof will help keep the home cool are they have a higher reflectance value compared to older models, allowing you to save more on energy costs.

Color and Modernized Shingles
The color of your roof should vary based on the local climate of where you live. While lighter roofs are ideal for homes in a hot climate to deflect sunlight, dark shingles help keep the homes warm in cold-weather areas. At the same time, using modern shingles will prevent energy loss by protecting the home from strong winds with increased mental content, offering better dimensional stability, and improving your home’s resistance against heat flow.

Hire a Professional to Install New Roofs
Installing new roofs is a worthy investment that will not only make your home look great, but also save money on energy costs. Heartland Roofing Siding and Solar offers roof inspection, replacement, and installation services in the Greater Minneapolis area. Give us a call today at 800-681-4169 for a free inspection and estimate or get useful advice from our roofing experts.