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Tag: Bay Area roofing experts

Introduce Light to Dark Gulf Coast Homes

Posted on by Matthew Housh
Photo courtesy of VELUXUSA.com

Where is the darkest spot in your home? It could be a corner of the living room or the entire dining room. Perhaps it’s a guest bedroom that spends most of its time as a large storage closet. Homeowners will spend considerable time and money attempting to light these areas with varying degrees of success, often neglecting a prime source of light that’s free to use.

Here along the Gulf Coast, our tremendous number of sunny days makes skylights a terrific option for introducing light to a dark home. Whether you’re in a decades-old home in St. Pete or a brand new one in Clearwater, skylights from VELUX and installed by Arry’s Roofing, can be a quick and easy way to bring in natural light and lower energy costs incurred by the need for frequent flips of the light switch throughout the day.

Thanks to options for VELUX blinds, the flow of sunlight can be managed as necessary in each home. At times, you may desire less light or no light and VELUX can accommodate that wish. For example, direct sunlight may produce a glare on the computer screen in your home office and diffusing it with a light diffusing blind is easier than changing the location of your work space.

VELUX provides options for traditional skylights and tubular skylights, and Arry’s Roofing can discuss what best serves your needs and your home. These no-leak skylights come with three layers of water protection and glazing options. Flat and low-sloped roof options are available too.

As veteran roofers who have earned multiple excellence awards from GAF, North America’s largest roofing manufacturer, we know all about improving the appearance and function of Tampa Bay roofs. Let’s talk about how we can help yours. Call Arry’s Roofing at 727.362.2230 for a free estimate. You can also learn more about us on Facebook and by following us on Twitter @ArrysRoofing.

“Greening” Your Roof for Earth Day

Posted on by Matthew Housh

A celebration of Earth Day isn’t limited to April 22 as the annual occasion has become a multi-day event in many parts of the country. The scope of Earth Day has also expanded in recent years, with more active corporate and community involvement. One entity supporting the mission this year is GAF, North America’s largest roofing manufacturer. As a GAF MasterElite Roofing Contractor, Arry’s Roofing wants to share the GAF tips to “greening” for Earth Day.

GAF Tips for a “Greener” Reroof Project

1. Recycle. The average roof is many thousands of pounds of material—the weight of several years’ worth of household trash. Most roofing material can be easily recycled by your contractor. Find out where to recycle at http://www.shinglerecycling.org—it’s an easy way to make a big difference.

2. Energy audit. A home energy audit is a professional evaluation of the best ways to improve your home’s energy efficiency. The start of your reroofing project is a great opportunity to make energy-efficiency improvements to your structure. When the roof is off, your contractor can work from the top down and improve attic air barriers, seal around can lights and bath fans, make sure there isn’t wind wash around soffit vents, and check the overall energy performance of the home. It’s not uncommon to save double-digit percentages on utilities after these improvements. Find qualified auditors at http://www.resnet.us/directory/raters.

3. Proper attic ventilation. Attics should maintain a temperature as close to the outdoor temperature as possible, with vented areas along the eaves (the underside of the overhangs of the roof, in what is called ‘soffit’) bringing in cooler air, which is then vented along the ridgeline of the roof. This steadily moving air keeps your attic from heating up, and clears out any moist air from the living space that does make it into the attic through the ceiling. Many homes were designed without enough of this ventilation; increasing this attic ventilation during your reroof helps make your roof system more effective and helps improve the energy performance of your home.

4. Solar readiness. Most residential solar installations go on the roof. Putting the solar panels up on the roof gets them out of the way, optimizes exposure to the sun, and keeps them close to utility connections. However, it is very common to find a plumbing vent or fan running right through that perfect southern exposure. Even if you’re not having solar PV or solar thermal put on as part of this reroof project, think down the road and get your roof ready by moving this “clutter” to other parts of the roof. You can also add additional leak barrier — the peel and stick self-sealing membrane material that is used in high-stress areas of the roof — in the areas where penetrations for utility connections would go. Making these changes when the roof is being replaced will save additional hassle and cost in the future.

5. Cool roofing. Some options, including Timberline® Cool Series Lifetime Shingles, preferentially reflect the infrared spectrum — the non-visible, heat-carrying portion of the light spectrum. This means your roof can be an attractive, medium or dark color, but still reflect more heat away from your home than conventional roofing. In many parts of the country, for air-conditioned homes (and especially those with A/C ducts that run in the attic), cool roofing can save enough energy to justify the extra expense — and you’ll be doing your part to reduce the urban heat island effect. Learn more about GAF’s Timberline® Cool Series Lifetime Shingles and use GAF’s Roof Wizard to see how these shingles will look on your house at http://www.gaf.com.

6. Last but not least: a durable, efficient, properly detailed roofing system. The number-one job of the roof is to keep the rest of the home dry. It’s tempting to think that you can just get new shingles, but it’s the entire roofing system—consisting of leak barrier, flashing, underlayment, and shingles together—that works to keep the home dry. That’s why a complete roofing system is so important. GAF is the only roofing manufacturer to offer a Lifetime Roofing System warranty. Make sure that your roofing contractor is knowledgeable about all of the proper components of a full roofing system—selecting a factory-certified contractor is your best way to ensure this. You can find a factory-certified professional at http://www.gaf.com simply by entering your zip code.

In Tampa Bay and surrounding areas, rely on the expertise of Arry’s Roofing for your next roof replacement project. With more than 25 years of award-winning service and a team of licensed roofers, Arry’s is ready to handle your roofing needs, no matter how big or small. Call 727.362.2230 to schedule a free roof estimate, and be sure to like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter @ArrysRoofing.

From Home Improvement to Community Improvement

Posted on by Matthew Housh

A new survey about curbside recycling reveals that only one-third of Tampa residents actually use the service. That may or may not surprise you, depending on if you’re one of those people who use it. Perhaps you live in South Tampa or southwest Tampa, areas with the highest recycling rates, according to the Tampa Tribune. But those not participating may need some convincing on how simple it is to get started.

Why is a roofing company talking about recycling? Perhaps it’s because roof tear-offs account for millions of tons of landfill waste every year. There’s movement in the industry to increase recycling efforts involving used roofing materials. But even more important are the efforts we can make on an individual level to reduce, reuse and recycle items within our daily reach.

5 Ways to Start Recycling Today

1. Start with a spot.

Pick a place in your home that provides easy access and room to store a container for recyclables. The kitchen is ideal since it’s where most glass, plastic and aluminum items tend to collect.

2. Start with a routine stop.

Leftover plastic bags can be taken back to the grocery store during your weekly (or daily) stop there.

3. Start with the mail.

Place junk mail, flyers, and unwanted correspondence (that doesn’t include personal information) in your chosen recycling spot before setting it down on the closest flat surface. Newspapers and magazines can be collected around the house too.

4. Start with old technology.

Donate or recycle cell phones, PDAs, chargers, and batteries. Cell phone service providers are among the numerous drop-off locations, and recycling one million cell phones saves enough energy to power more than 185 US households with electricity for a year, according to the EPA.

5. Start with the family.

No, you’re not recycling the kids or your spouse. Sit down with them and plan a recycling strategy that involves everyone. Instruct your children to recycle that paper they bring home weekly in the form of assignments, reports and classroom activities.

Arry’s Roofing Receives Excellence Awards Once Again

Posted on by Matthew Housh
Becky and "Arry" Housh receive Triple Excellence awards at the March 2012 GAF conference in Nashville

For the third year in a row Arry’s Roofing has once again earned a trio of Excellence awards from North America’s largest roofing manufacturer. GAF named Arry’s Roofing as one of the recipients of Consumer Protection Excellence, Training Excellence, and Installation Excellence at a conference in Nashville, Tennessee. “Arry” and Becky Housh attended the conference to graciously receive the honors, including the sixth time the company has earned the Consumer Protection Excellence award.

Arry’s Roofing is proud to be among a small percentage of roofers nationwide who have earned the status of GAF Master Elite Roofing Contractor. In fact, only two percent of roofers in the country have this certification. The designation underscores the Arry’s Roofing commitment to high standards for workmanship, materials, customer service and ongoing training.

As part of our mission, our company is dedicated to educating roofing customers in Tampa Bay about roofing systems, warning signs of leaks, the importance of gutters and other roofing-related topics. Helping consumers make informed decisions when considering options for contractors is another aspect of that education. We actively promote the idea of carefully researching all home improvement contractors and relying only on licensed contractors with a proven track record in their respective fields.

When you’re ready for roof replacement, or in need of roof repairs, maintenance or cleaning, we welcome you to rely on Arry’s Roofing. We keep our website stocked with helpful information, such as signs you need a new roof and insurance/mitigation. We also provide free hurricane damage inspection and assessment.

Discover why Arry’s Roofing has earned a solid reputation among your neighbors and accolades many times over from GAF. One call to 727-938-9565 is all you need to schedule a free roof inspection and estimate. Be sure to like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ArrysRoofingServices and follow us on Twitter @ArrysRoofing.

Testing the Offer of a Mortgage-Free Year

Posted on by Matthew Housh
Imagine coming home to this.

Considering the financial burden of your mortgage, it’s likely you’ve wondered about ways to pay it off early. But without a hefty inheritance, a lottery win or a fairy godmother, you expect to be carrying that burden for years. That’s why the news that a California marketing company wants to offer Tampa Bay residents the chance to live mortgage-free for a year may be getting your attention right now. But it comes with a big and brightly colored catch: you have to willing to allow your home to be turned into a billboard.

For anyone who wants his or her home to stand out from the rest of the neighborhood, this is one sure-fire way to accomplish that goal. The “billboard house” concept has already been tested in one California town. We won’t mention the company’s name; it’s already gotten a great deal of exposure that has led to 40,000 applications through its website, including more than 200 from Tampa Bay. So don’t be surprised when you’re driving around this spring and you see a billboard house somewhere in the area.

Is a billboard house the kind of offer that’s too good to be true? That remains to be seen, pun intended. But here are a few things to keep in mind when you encounter a money-saving offer connected to your Tampa Bay home.

5 Key Aspects of Any Money-Saving Offer
1. Terms of agreement: What is negotiable and non-negotiable? In the billboard house scenario, what extent of input does the homeowner have? Is the homeowner free to reject an advertiser and what is allowable for the basis of that rejection?

2. Expertise: Who is doing the actual work you’re paying for and what credentials do they come with? In this case, a marketing company must hire contractors to handle the painting.

3. Materials: Precisely what type of products are being used on your home?

4. Insurance: Is the company contracted to do the work insured in the event of accidental damage to your home or property or in case of injury to a worker?

5. Potential impact: Does the company providing the services or any company affiliated with the services foresee any issues developing that stem from the original service? For example, are there any restrictions to altering your home in this way? Will neighbors complain and do they have any recourse if they oppose it?

Asking intelligent questions throughout the process will lead to becoming a more informed decision maker. With as much time, effort and money that you’ve invested in your home already, retaining your control over the situation is the ideal place for you to be. Allow the “experts” to provide their expertise, but keep in mind it’s you who has the final say about what does and does not happen at your home.

For Improvement in Tampa, Find a Leader

Posted on by Matthew Housh

The Bucs did it. After a dismal 4-12 season, which saw them allow more points than any other team in the NFL, they went out and found a new leader. Former Rutgers coach Greg Schiano takes over as head coach in Tampa Bay, and the front office staff and fans are hoping he can turn things around here in the same way he did for the Scarlet Knights.

Ten straight losses to end a season must feel like a never-ending path of punishment. But mercifully, the NFL limits the number of games to 16 before the playoffs begin. It makes you wonder how much longer the team could have lost before changing the man in charge on the sidelines.

You may have experienced a long “losing” streak of your own recently. It might have involved the malfunctioning of an appliance, broken windows or a leaky roof, one at a time or all at once. The cost of covering multiple projects, even if you work on them yourself, can add up quickly.

Many property owners often are focused on a quick fix and saving a buck, which is understandable. But cutting corners can cause them to overlook the lasting value of quality materials and superb workmanship. That’s the difference between and fix-it-and-forget-it philosophy and truly investing in your home maintenance and repair needs.

A home improvement leader will look at your home as a place that needs to be safe and comfortable. Also, a leader will understand the importance of protecting the value of a home. In addition, a leader will always conduct business in a professional manner, demonstrating both an expertise in the field and the courtesy a customer always deserves.

When you’re hiring a home improvement contractor in Tampa Bay, don’t settle for anything less than a true leader. For roof repair and roof replacement, Arry’s Roofing is that leader. As a GAF MasterElite Roofing Contractor, we’ve bring the highest standards to every project. Find out more at www.arrysroofing.com or call us at 727-938-9565 to schedule a visit and free estimate.

Arry’s Roofing Earns Coveted Award Once Again

Posted on by Matthew Housh

For the seventh consecutive year, Arry’s Roofing has earned a highly coveted national award for its exceptional service. The 2011 “Super Service Award”, given by Angie’s List, is bestowed upon service contractors and doctors whose commitment to customer service consistently meets or exceeds expectations. Of all the businesses appearing on Angie’s List in more than 500 service categories, only a mere five percent of them will be named “Super Service Award” recipients.

As the nation’s leading provider of consumer reviews, Angie’s List maintains high standards for its annual service award. Recipients of the Super Service Award have met “strict eligibility requirements including earning a minimum number of reports, an exemplary rating from their clients and abiding by Angie’s List operational guidelines.” Reports include comments related to a project as well as a grade for price, quality, responsiveness, punctuality and professionalism.

Unlike websites that offer a “pay-for-play” mention to businesses, companies cannot pay to be on Angie’s List. Also, its users are not anonymous; they come from real people who review the contractors and doctors featured on the site. In fact, members submit more than 40,000 new reviews each month. At the moment, more than two million consumers turn to Angie’s List to take advantage of reviews from real people that can lead to more informed buying decisions.

This prestigious award is one more way that Arry’s Roofing demonstrates an unwavering dedication to serving residential and commercial property owners in and around Tampa Bay. With more than 25 years in business, and a production team consisting of only licensed roofers, we’re like no other home improvement company along the Gulf Coast. When you’re looking for excellence in roof repair or roof replacement in Tampa, St. Pete and beyond, discover why more and more of your neighbors trust Arry’s Roofing to get the job done right.

Floridians Deserve a Factory-Certified Roofer

Posted on by Matthew Housh

If you’re one of those people who researches everything, it’s likely that you’ve visited the website of each manufacturer who created a product that you bought. Nothing gets by you. But there a great many people who bypass these kinds of details, and in doing so, may miss some bits of critical information. One detail that would serve a property owner well is learning whether or not his or her roofer of choice is factory certified.

The GAF website makes it easy to determine if a contractor in your area has been certified by North America’s largest roofing manufacturer. You simply enter your Zip Code and the results in your area will appear. Enter a Tampa Bay area Zip Code and you’ll see Arry’s Roofing as one of your results.

Not only does this site help you better determine the certification status of a particular roofing contractor, it provides many more ways to get a clearer sense of the value of each contractor. One way that’s possible is by checking out a kind of roofer report card based on reviews by real homeowners. The reviews are used to “score” a business based on both sales and installation experience. Another aspect of this ScoreCard is related to the overall results, asking a customer if the project met all expectations and would that customer recommend the contractor to others.

As of this writing, Arry’s Roofing has received 122 reviews with scores close to or at the maximum level in every single category. The decision to hire a contractor based on these scores can be further bolstered by examining GAF Awards and Certifications, listed nearby. On our page, you’ll notice an Installation Excellence Award among the five featured icons.

So as you’re preparing for an upcoming roof repair or replacement project at your Gulf Coast property, take a few minutes to visit the GAF website. There’s no need to memorize large amounts of technical information about roofing. Just look for a contractor that’s factory certified and that alone will narrow your search while raising your expectations of what a genuinely qualified roofer can do for you.

Find a Factory-Certified Roofer

Tampa Bay Roof Repair in 2012

Posted on by Matthew Housh

The gift-giving that accompanies the holiday season usually provides a few good mysteries, presents that provide no obvious clue about what’s inside until you unwrap them. You may eye a particular gift sitting under the tree for days and wonder what delight awaits you. These are the heartwarming mysteries of the season, unlike the mysteries at home that will follow in 2012.

One of those mysteries is how much your home improvement and repair projects will cost you over the next 12 months. There are some point of references available online related to overall maintenance and repair costs related to a new or older home. You may see figures like 1-2% or 3-4%. Usually a higher percentage of a home’s original purchase price is tied to the anticipated costs of annual repair. New homes and homes in the 5-10 year-old year-old range tend to cost less to maintain annually. But this “ballpark” figure does not do much to help you determine the cost of roof repair or replacement should it become necessary in 2012.

Due to the extensive variables related to roof repair, there is no way to easily pinpoint a cost on your own. A professional contractor can give you an estimate based on type of roofing material, square footage, pitch, and other factors including hours of labor. So while your neighbor’s roof repair may cost $12,000 next May, your roof repair the following month might cost more or less.

So how do you prepare for a figure that’s best determined by an experienced roofing contractor? One approach is to avoid being conservative in your estimation of all potential repairs. If your review of 2011 reveals that your actual improvement and repair expense was 2.5% of your home’s original purchase price, move your 2012 estimate to 3.0%. Another aspect to consider is the age of your current roofing materials. If those 20-year shingles on your home were installed well over a decade ago, replacement will become necessary very soon. Also, consider the potential damaging effects of weather here along Florida’s Gulf Coast, which can experience everything from tropical weather to hurricane force winds in a given year.

Once you’re ready to find a reliable roofing contractor in Tampa Bay, choose among the premier professionals with proven track records of service in this area. As a GAF MasterElite Roofing Contractor, Arry’s Roofing stands above the competition by providing superior workmanship, a team dedicated to ongoing training, and a fully licensed and adequately insured operation. Free in-home consultations and estimates are available by calling 727-938-9565, and more information about Arry’s Roofing is available online at www.arrysroofing.com.

Habitat for the Holidays

Posted on by Matthew Housh

As a past participant in a Habitat for Humanity project, Arry’s Roofing has seen the benefits of lending a hand to someone to in need. With more than 25 years of service here in Tampa Bay, helping homeowners live more safely and comfortably is what we do best. Now we invite you to help your local Habitat for Humanity this holiday season.

Three Ways to Help Tampa Bay Habitat Programs
Volunteer
You don’t need to be a roofing expert to make a difference. Even without knowing what apron flashing is, you can help in a big way by volunteering your time. Most Habitat programs have an online application that makes it easy to get started. Let them know if you have technical skills, such as experience with drywall, electrical, plumbing or flooring. Perhaps your area of expertise is filing, bookkeeping or data entry. Those are valuable assets too.

Donate
If time is too limited, a monetary donation is always an easy way to support your local Habitat for Humanity organization. Your cash, check or online donation helps cover the essentials of any project. Even a small donation is appreciated. Just consider, $10 could help buy a box of nails; $35 helps buy roof shingles; $75 means a window can be purchased; $100 helps buy the kitchen sink.

Feed
If your area of expertise involves cooking, baking or preparing meals, imagine the appetite that a volunteer crew works up during a day on site. Contact a Habitat program, such as the West Pasco organization, and offer to make breakfast or lunch for the crew. Feeding the people who are diligently working to build a much-needed home for a family is a great tradition to start this holiday season and carry forward throughout the coming year.

Thanks for being a great neighbor this holiday season. Let us know how we can help you with your roofing needs now or in the future. Visit us at www.arrysroofing.com or call us at 727-938-9565.

West Pasco Habitat for Humanity

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