Shawn

Need a New Roof – Don’t Wait Until an Emergency Arises

May 18, 2017 by Shawn Leave a Comment

Waiting to replace your roof until there is a problem could actually lead to more expensive issues.

Many homeowners do not want to invest in a brand new roof. For this reason, they often put off have a new one installed as long as possible. However, what typically happens is that they procrastinate until an emergency situations arises, forcing them to make a hasty decision.

Why You Shouldn’t Wait

It’s an understandable situation, there are other things you need and want to spend your money on. But waiting until there is a problem could actually lead to more expensive issues.

For instance, if you wait to replace you worn-out roof and one day a heavy storm comes, broken tiles can allow water in and now you have a leak in your roof. If unnoticed, the water could wreck havoc on other parts of your house, causing damage there too and now you have more than just your roof to pay for.

Your Home’s Value

Another advantage of planning ahead and not waiting for a disaster is that you’ll be able to make well-educated decisions. Having a new roof installed is not a decision one should make lightly. It is a large investment that significantly impacts the look and value of your home. And it not only affects the outside of your house, but also the comfort and efficiency levels on the inside.

It’s important to take your time to do your research. Find an experienced and qualified roofing contractor and then carefully select the roofing materials that fit your budget and your home.

The bottom line is that planning ahead is the best way to take care of your home. Replacing your roof before disaster strikes is the right course. If you do plan ahead, it will save you money in the long run, not just because you’ll be avoiding other costly repairs, but you’ll be in control of planning your project. At Duration Construction, we guarantee that our work meets the highest standards and that it will be done to your satisfaction.

Contact Duration Construction Today!

Duration Construction are the experts in the St. Louis area when it comes to roof repairs and entire roof replacements. Our elite roofing craftsmanship serves both the residential and commercial sectors of St. Louis, providing economical solutions to any number of roofing issues.

A local company, Duration Construction knows that we are doing roofing work on our neighbor’s homes and the businesses we frequent. This makes it all the more important to us to do an excellent job the first time and every time.

Call us today at (314) 238-1357 or fill out our online contact form.

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The History of Slate Roofs

March 24, 2017 by Shawn Leave a Comment

Slate has a very long history of being used as a roofing material.

Slate has been used as a roofing material for nearly a thousand years. Today, it continues to be used as a beautiful addition to many homes. It is a long lasting roofing material that not only protects a home but also adds value and prestige.

At Duration Construction, we are experts at installing slate roofing on homes of any size. With our commitment to precision installation, a slate roof on your home will stand the test of time.

What is Slate?

Slate is a fine-grained foliated, metamorphic rock that is easily split into smooth, flat pieces. The world’s largest producer and exporter of natural slate is Spain. In fact, 90% of Europe’s natural slate roof tiles originate from there.

In Cornwall, England there are a number of slate mines and quarries. In the United States, a vast majority of slate roofing tiles are quarried in the north-east region of the country. There is also a large production of slate in Canada.

Slate has many natural colors which include grey, greenish-grey, blue, black, tan, dark red and even purple. However, when most people refer to ‘slate’ they mean the dark grey color as it is the most common color variation.

Slate Roofing – A History

The first record of slate being used as a roofing material was in North Wales, England in 1287. Slate was also used on churches and castles because it was so durable against weather and fire. In its early history, slate was only used by the wealthy as it was very expensive and also very time consuming to install. However, in the 1800’s the quarrying process became more advanced and thus slate roofing became available to more people.

In the U.S. slate wasn’t mass quarried until the 19th century. It began in Pennsylvania and spread through the northeast portions of the country. Vermont became well known for its slate production and continues to be down until this day. In fact, Vermont has some of the finest quality slate in the world.

The slate roofing industry reached a peak in the U.S. around 1915. Not only was there a decline in the skilled labor of installing slate roofs, but the availability of other materials began to take its place. Other materials, such as asphalt shingles, could be massed produced and were cheaper and easier to install. It is only in more recent years that slate has once again increased in popularity. Many people are interested in the historic preservation of slate roofs. In addition, slate is more superior in both look and quality when compared to other roofing materials. Therefore, slate production has begun to see a huge increase again.

Why Choose a Slate Roof for Your St. Louis Home?

Unique and long lasting, slate roofing has what it takes to protect your home from torrential rains and Missouri snow storms.

If you need a new roof, you may be overwhelmed with all of the roofing options available. Your home is your biggest asset, and the roof is its main source of protection from the elements.

Slate is a long-lasting roofing solution that exudes elegance like no other can. If you are looking for a stylish way to provide protection for your home, you can’t beat slate roofing. There is durability to a slate roof that cannot be matched. These tiles are known to withstand the elements with unprecedented strength, often lasting 100 years or more. There is hardly any maintenance required to maintain it’s strength and beauty, as they are fireproof, resistant to mold, and insect infestations.

At Duration Construction, we are experts in the St. Louis area when it comes to roof repairs and entire roof replacements. Our goal is to provide you with the highest quality roof available. One option you have is slate roofing.

Why Choose a Slate Roof?

There are many advantages to having a slate roof installed on your home. The only cons that you will typically come across have to do with its cost and the trickiness of installing slate. However, the benefits of a slate roof will offset the higher cost. At Duration Construction, we are experts at installing slate roofing on homes of any size. Many roofing contractors know very little about slate roofs.

Advantages of a slate roof include:

Longevity – when correctly installed, a slate roof should last over a century, which is a huge plus when other roofing materials will generally never last more than 30 years.
Appearance – there is nothing like the appearance of slate. There are a variety of sizes and thicknesses, as well as a number of different colors, which include grey, black, red, and green.
Environmentally Friendly – roofing waste is a huge factor in recent times. This is mostly because a typical asphalt shingle roof has to be replaced every 20 or so years. A slate roof that lasts 100 years or more has a positive impact on the environment.
Fire Resistant – slate tiles are fireproof. It is unlike any other roofing material in this regard.
Increased Value – When installed properly, slate roofs add significant value to your St. Louis home.
Synthetic Option – there is a more economical choice for a slate roof that gives your home the exact same look, at a fraction of the cost. Additionally, these materials are not nearly as heavy, eliminating the need for added roof truss support.

Unique and long lasting, slate roofing has what it takes to protect your home from torrential rains and Missouri snow storms. With our commitment to precision installation, a slate roof on your home will stand the test of time.

Slate roofing is a beautiful addition to any style home. Adding value and prestige, this is a premium roofing solution that is well worth the investment. Not only will you be adding rustic beauty to your home, but you will also be giving it optimal protection from the elements.

St. Louis Slate Roofing

The classic look of a slate roof will give your home a unique aesthetic appeal for decades. Call Duration Construction today to find out more about how a slate roof will give you the best possible protection and a high-class look that cannot be matched.

Call Duration Construction at (314) 238-1357 or fill out our online contact form to find out more about how a slate roof will give you the best possible protection and a high-class look that cannot be matched.

Some Facts About Cedar Shake Roofing

March 21, 2017 by Shawn Leave a Comment

Cedar shake roofs provide ideal protection from the elements while adding a unique aesthetic appeal to the outside of your home.

Cedar shake roofs are a popular choice among homeowners looking for a distinctive appearance and great durability. These roofs are made from split logs and have a unique appearance because of the variable length and thickness of the shingles. They have been around since the colonial times, and are even today loved for heir old school and natural charm.

What Does a Cedar Roof Look Like?

When the cedar shakes are new, they have a cinnamon and honey coloration and as they mature, they become seasoned and get a distinctive silvery-gray appearance as long as it is properly maintained.

Cedar Roofs Weather Gracefully

Unlike other types of roofs, cedar shakes roofs do not decay, they weather. Cedar contains natural preservatives that make it moisture, decay and insect resistant. However, in places where the weather remains warm and humid, and where the roofs remain shaded, moss, mildew, mold, lichen, algae, and fungi tend to grow, and these organisms retain moisture causing the cedar shake roof to decay if it is not properly maintained.

The lifespan of Cedar Shake Roofs

On an average, the lifespan of a cedar shake roof is about 20 years. If the weather conditions are not rough and the roof maintained well then these roofs can last even longer.

Environmental Impact

Trees are a renewable resource, and unlike the case other synthetic roofs no chemicals are produced in the manufacturing. So, the environmental impact is minimal. However, cedar trees take much longer to grow so the resources at any time are limited.

Cedar Shake Roofs Increase a Homes Value

Cedar shakes have always been considered a premium roofing material, most often seen on finer homes. Constructing your roof with cedar will add value to your house, as well as enhance its sidewalk appeal.

St. Louis Cedar Shake Roofing

Duration Construction are the experts in the St. Louis area when it comes to roof repairs and entire roof replacements. Our elite roofing craftsmanship serves both the residential and commercial sectors of St. Louis, providing economical solutions to any number of roofing issues. Call us today at (314) 238-1367 or fill out our online contact form.

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Worn Slate Roofs – Should it be Repaired or Replaced?

February 17, 2017 by Shawn Leave a Comment

Does your worn slate roof need to be repaired or replaced?

Slate roofs are often called 100-year-old roofs. Because of this, many people wrongly assume that a slate roof doesn’t need any maintenance for 100 years.

Therefore, a common question arises when a slate roof has been neglected and then has a number of broken, missing or loose tiles: Does my slate roof need to be repaired or replaced?

The general answer is that it is rare that an entire roof needs to be condemned and then replaced. Here are some helpful tips to help avoid getting into such a dire situation.

The Importance of Proper Maintenance

Rather, like all roofs, slate roofs should be inspected every year. When there are cracked, loose, missing, or broken slate tiles, they should be replaced as soon as possible. When annual maintenance is preformed, costly roof replacements can be avoided. In addition, when slates are broken or missing, this can cause other damage to the roof which can be expensive to fix.

It is also important that the repairs are done correctly. That is why a roofing company that is experienced with slate roofing be used to do repairs.

For instance, if a contractor is used that is unfamiliar with slate roofs, they may repair a leak with black goop. Not only is this unsightly, it can also conceal defects that could otherwise be easy to fix such as bad flashing.

Because slate roofs have a very long-lasting life ranging from 75 to 200 years, it is rare that an entire slate roof needs to be condemned.

When Replacement is Required

Even if you have your slate roof properly maintained, many of the slate tiles will have to be replaced at some time. However, there are some signs that a roof is at the end of its serviceable life. Major flaking, or delaminating, is one such sign. Another is powdering on the underside of the slates.

St. Louis Slate Roofing

If you need annual maintenance or need to inquire about the state of your slate roof, contact Duration Construction today at (314) 238-1357 or fill out our online contact form.

We guarantee that our work meets the highest standards and that it will be done to your satisfaction. If something isn’t right, WE WILL MAKE IT RIGHT! All our work and materials come with full warranties so you can have peace of mind long after a project has been completed.

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Are Natural Cedar Shingles Right for My Home?

January 31, 2017 by Shawn Leave a Comment

At Duration Construction, we will help you determine if cedar shingles are the right choice for you and your St. Louis home.

There are pros and cons associated with all roofing materials, but with cedar shingles, most homeowners agree that the advantages outweigh the disadvantages. If you are trying to decide what material you want your new roof to be, it is important that you know what your individual needs are.

What Are Your Needs?

There are a number of factors that you must consider before choosing a roofing material. Some of these include your:

Location
Climate
Commitment to maintenance
Trees and sun exposure around your home
Budget

If you have any questions about the installation of a cedar shake or cedar shingle roof, don’t delay in calling Duration Construction. We will come out to your home, perform a thorough inspection and give you a fair estimate for the job.

Advantages of Cedar Roofs

For homeowners in St. Louis, there are a number of advantages to having a cedar roof installed on your home. First of all, cedar shingles are resistant to severe weather, including hailstorms, snowstorms, heavy rains, and high winds. This makes it a very good choice for St. Louis homes. Cedar is able to stand up to our sometimes harsh weather conditions all year long.

Second, cedar roofs are durable. Cedar is long-lasting and will typically outlast a regular roof by as much as 10 years. Third, while they are practical they are also exceptionally pretty. Cedarwood will age into a pretty grayish silver color.

Cedar tends to cost a little more than traditional roofing materials, however, because they are long-lasting and are energy efficient, they will save homeowners money monthly and in the long run.

There is also some maintenance that is required. Frequent removal of leaves and twigs is required, and in some cases, you can apply a protective coat to the shakes. However, cedar is naturally rot resistant, and with a little extra care, you can expect the roof to last for approximately 20 years.

St. Louis Cedar Shake Roofs

Duration Construction specializes in cedar roofing on roofs of all sizes. Beautiful and durable, cedar has been long proven to be able to weather out the worst Missouri storms. With our exacting installation, a cedar roof can last 20 years or more on a St. Louis home.

Call us today at (314) 238-1357 or fill out our online contact form.

Slate Roof Installation Blunders to Avoid

December 20, 2016 by Shawn Leave a Comment

The beauty and the longevity of a slate roof is what often attracts homeowners and a slated roof can add a timeless appeal to your home.

Installing a slate roof should be a carefully planned process and should not be rushed into. It is essential to find an experienced and trained St. Louis slate roof expert who can install a slate roof correctly. Inexperienced roofers may commit a number of blunders that can seriously compromise the longevity, aesthetic beauty, and the durability of a slate roof.

Poor Flashing Installation

Flashings are the materials, usually metal or plastic, that are used to waterproof a roof around any projections like chimneys, vents, or gutters. Often made of metal, they are not as durable as the slate roof itself and require replacement from time to time. Incorrectly installed flashings can damage slate tiles and lead to water accumulation and leaks inside the house.

Cracked Slate Tiles

Slate tiles are vulnerable to damage. Weathering can cause cracks in slates and they may need replacement from time to time. Walking on these slates during repairs and installation can cause them to crack and lead to water leakages. A trained St. Louis slate roofer knows the correct way to walk over a slated roof without causing damage. Refrain from walking on the roof altogether unless unavoidable and use scaffolding and ladders during repairs and installations.

Unmatched Slate Colors

Slate is a natural material and is found in different shades in different locations. When a homeowner chooses a slate, they should be wary of suppliers who offer a poor quality of slate. Using a trained and experienced slater will ensure that the slater uses the different pallet slates in a way that blend the differences and give the roof a uniform look. In addition, some qualities of slates can develop rust-like stains over a period of time.

Using Inappropriate Tools

Correct tools such as slate cutters, hammers, stakes, and rippers should be used during installation or repairs. Specific tools should be used only for specific slate-related jobs. An untrained slater may be unable to know the difference and could end up damaging more tiles.

Incorrect Headlap Positioning

Headlap refers to overlapping of the head of a slate by two more courses of slate tiles. Proper installation of the headlap will ensure that water does not leak into the home. A professional slater will ensure that the headlap is correctly placed and will also adhere to the standard three-inch headlap measurement unless there is a need for modification based on weather conditions and roof pitch.

Proper installation of a slate roof can ensure longevity and beautiful appeal of your home. For more information, call Duration Construction at (314) 238-1357.