Blog - Page 2 of 2 - Allied Construction
May 25, 2019

Shingle Installation Mistakes

A roof that isn’t installed precisely the way it was intended can be both unattractive and incapable of standing up to extreme weather conditions. Overlooking seemingly small details, such as shingle alignment and nailing, can lead to serious problems. Here are some of the most common details that, when improperly executed, can have negative consequences later in the installation or after completion of the roof:

Not installing starter shingles can allow water channels to form where shingles align across the first course.

No. 1: No Starter Shingles/Improper Alignment Of Shingles At Eave And Rake

WHY: The purpose of starter shingles is to provide waterproof asphalt protection at the eaves and rake edges of a roof. Starter shingles are installed so they overhang the edge of the eaves slightly to allow for water runoff. Then a course of shingles is installed on top of the starter shingles, forming a front line of defense for blow-offs and water damage.

RESULTS: When roofers don’t use starter shingles and install the first course of shingles directly onto the eave or rake, water channels can form where the shingles align across the first course. Moisture can then come into direct contact with the roof deck. Shingles farther up the roof are protected by the courses beneath them, which catch and divert any water that happens to drip between the edges. The first course of shingles needs the same defense from the elements.

TIP: Proper alignment is important when installing both the starter shingles and the first course of shingles. If the starter shingles are not secured correctly at the eave or rake, and the first course of shingles is not nailed down evenly across the top of the starter shingles, the roof may be at risk for wind and/or water damage.

Manufacturer’s guidelines for the proper overhang spacing at the drip edge or rake should be followed precisely. If the starter shingle overhangs the eave too much, a gust of strong wind may lift the shingles and cause a blow-off.

Nailing outside the “common bond” area (too high or too low) can void a roof’s warranty.

No. 2: Improper Nailing

WHY: The purpose of proper is to ensure that shingles stay in place and don’t cause leaks. Local building codes and manufacturers’ instructions give roofing contractors the directions they need to fasten the shingles properly to the roof deck. Guidelines specify the number of nails per shingle and where the nails should be placed.

RESULTS: In laminate shingles the nailing zone is referred to as the “common bond” area of the shingle. The “common bond” area includes the double-layer portion of the shingle down to the exposure and constitutes the proper nailing area as identified in laminate shingle installation instructions. The “common bond” nailing area must be targeted correctly in order to obtain the proper wind performance as advertised by the shingle manufacturer. Properly placed nails go through two layers of shingles – penetrating through the previous shingle course underneath — attaching them securely to the roof deck. Nails placed outside the common bond area can void the roof’s warranty and prevent asphalt shingles from performing as intended during extreme weather.

Wind and wind-driven rain can lift improperly nailed shingles and cause water damage to the roof and possibly blow-offs. Using either too many or not enough nails can weaken the shingle’s performance, which can also result in blow-offs.

Finally, roofers who prefer hammers should be skilled enough to drive nails consistently into shingles at the right angle, not over- or under-drive them.

roof installation mistakes

Improperly aligned shingles (e.g., installed too low) can affect wind performance and allow water to penetrate the roof deck.

No. 3: Improper Shingle Alignment

WHY: Roof shingles are intended to be precisely aligned, both vertically and horizontally. Roofers lay out each course of shingles in a staggered, stepped pattern (think of a brick wall). The shingle edges of one course must be offset from the shingles below. Edges lined up with each other would allow water to seep through to the roof deck.

RESULTS: Installing shingles too high or too low compared to the previous course can affect the exposure, which in turn would affect the aesthetics, wind performance and seal strength of the roof. An improperly aligned shingle course would be very noticeable and have a wavy appearance that is unattractive and amateurish.


Using a starter shingle at the eaves and rakes can ensure that the installation is off to a good start. Paying attention to proper nailing and nail placement within the common bond area on all courses all the way up to the ridge can optimize the roof’s performance against wind and rain. Finally, carefully aligning each course of shingles both vertically and horizontally will give the finished roof a professional appearance and help to improve the homes curb appeal.

April 26, 2019

Choosing A New Roof

Are you thinking of getting a new roof? Whether you need to replace your roof because of age or storm damage, it’s a good idea to learn about the roofing materials that are available. Check out these useful tips that will help you chose a new roof with confidence.

Tip 1: Consider Your Roofing Options

There are multiple types of roof shingles available. Here are some of the more common styles:

  • 3-tab shingles — Three-tab shingles, which are also known as traditional, flat or strip shingles, are made of asphalt materials and feature a flat surface. They get their name because they’re supplied in individual rectangular pieces that are made to look like they’re divided into three squares. As an industry standard since the 1930s, 3-tab shingles offer a traditional, classic look with strength and durability. Plus, they're a budget-friendly option.
  • Architectural shingles — Architectural shingles are a good choice for many homeowners. The shingles are known for their high performance and curb appeal, and they fit into most budgets. Also made of asphalt materials, architectural shingles are named for their distinctive appearance and are often referred to as dimensional or laminate shingles. They have a varied surface thickness that gives them a unique textured or multi-dimensional "raised" look, which traditional 3-tab shingles lack. The raised areas vary, so when the shingles are fitted together on a roof deck, they create a non-uniform appearance that gives the roof’s surface depth and dimension. While the raised surface of an architectural shingle provides a unique and attractive look, it also improves the shingle’s performance. Architectural shingles also have increased wind-performance warranties over 3-tab shingles, helping better protect your roofing system from nature's worst.
  • Slate-style shingles — Slate-style shingles are architectural shingles that offer the traditional look of a natural slate, with the modern durability of asphalt. Atlas StormMaster® Slate shingles give you a unique designer slate look without the big designer costs.

The amount of time your roof will last depends on many factors, including how well you maintain it, environmental conditions and weather. Your roofing contractor will have specific maintenance tips for your type of roof.

Tip 2: Ask The Right Questions

Getting a new roof is an investment in your home, and that’s why it’s best to understand what you’re getting. Your roofing contractor is your best source of roofing information and will be glad to answer any questions you may have.

Here are a few questions to ask your roofer when going over your options with them:

  • How many years will this material last?
  • Will it look good on my home?
  • How can I protect my roof from the ugly black stains caused by algae?
  • How much will the installation cost?
  • What's the manufacturer's warranty?

When you’re done asking these questions, ask your roofer if there’s anything else you should know that you didn’t ask.

Tip 3: Create A Nice Color Combo

The great thing about getting an asphalt shingle roof installed is that you get to add a pop of color to your home. Here is a selection of attractive color combinations:

  • Wood homes — Wood looks best with brown, green and grey shingles.
  • White homes — White looks lovely with any color combination.
  • Grey homes — Grey looks delightful with dark grey and light grey.
  • Beige homes — Beige homes look marvelous with black, green and blue.
  • Brown homes — Brown looks magnificent with green and grey.
  • Brick homes — Brick looks fantastic with red or black.

If you want to highlight the sunset, then go with red and orange. If you want to give your home a cool-toned look, then opt for light colors. If you want to create a beachy look for your home, choose grey and green.  

Check out the Roof Inspiration Center to see what your roof can look like with Atlas asphalt shingles. You’ll have access to a suite of tools that make it easy to achieve your external remodeling goals. After you start using these tools, you’ll see how much fun it can be revamping your home.

The Roof Swap! visualizer app is the easiest way to picture your home with an Atlas roof. Just take a photo of your home and use the app to see all of the possible roofing options. You can make up to seven idea boards and have fun experimenting with various looks for your home.

The Roof & Home Design Studio is a tool that allows you to redesign your entire home from the comfort of your living room. You’ll have the option of using a photo of your home or a sample home. Once you’re in the design studio, you’ll have a blast playing around with different roof, siding and trim options.

Tip 4: Know Your Warranty

In most cases, your new roof will typically come with two warranties: a manufacturer’s warranty, which covers defective roofing material, and a workmanship warranty from the roofing contractor who installs your roof, which covers defects caused by faulty installation.

It’s in your best interest to read these warranties in detail to make sure you understand what they cover. If you don’t understand something in either warranty, call your roofer. He or she will be more than happy to explain it to you.

Tip 5: Work With A Licensed Contractor

It’s always recommended to use the roofing services of a licensed contractor. You may think that you’ll save money by working with an unlicensed contractor, but that’s not always the case. If you work with an unlicensed contractor and anything goes wrong at all, you’ll have no recourse whatsoever. Not only are you risking your investment, but significant recourse in the integrity of your roofing system, which can lead to potential leaks and other concerns.

Tip 6: Think About Your Home's Resale Value

A reliable and long-lasting roof is a crucial feature of your home when it comes time to sell it. Take this into account when determining the type of roof you’ll have installed. The condition, age and look of your roof will factor into the selling price for your home. That’s why it’s important to think about your future plans when picking your roofing material.

April 19, 2019

The 4 components of a roofing system.

Shingle roof

 Until it's time to repair or replace your roof, we don't think much about them. But did you know that the roof over your head is actually part of a system?

A roofing system is made up of individual components designed to work together to cover and protect a home from the outside elements. The four components that make up a roofing system are shingles, underlayment, starter shingles and hip and ridge shingles.

4 Components = 1 Roofing System

Shingles are familiar to most people, since they are the component of the system that's the most visible. However, the remaining three components are also important and play key roles.

Underlayment protects the roof deck from Mother Nature during installation. Underlayment is also the next line of defense if any shingles are ever blown or ripped off during high winds.

The remaining two components are starter shingles and hip and ridge shingles, both of which are specialty shingle products designed to start and finish off the roof, protecting the top of the roof deck and providing a finished look — similar to the effect of crown molding and baseboards for interior walls.

For the most efficient roofing systems, roofing contractors should use complementary components from one manufacturer that are designed to work together for maximum performance and warranty value — although, that isn't always the case.

Why Complementary Components Make More Sense

When it comes to having a new roof installed, you have to protect yourself. Roofing contractors will often grab underlayment from one manufacturer and roofing shingles from another manufacturer. They mix and match manufacturer products based on convenience and personal savings. But when problems occur and you need your roof repaired, it is up to you to track down each individual manufacturer and warranty plan just to get some work done. Oftentimes in these situations, each manufacturer blames the other, making it very difficult for you to get a resolution.

By using one manufacturer for the entire system, you can save time and avoid dealing with multiple manufacturers passing blame. Additionally, using one manufacturer often leads to better warranties. When manufacturers know every part of the roofing system is theirs, they often will reward you with an extended premium protection warranty period as a sign of confidence in the roof’s stability. By having just one manufacturer to work with, you get the support you truly need during the most stressful and tumultuous times.

One System, Multiple Advantages

Allied Construction only uses products that are made to work together. By using Products that are manufactured to be used together. There is no problems with warrantee issues and you get the peace of mind you deserve when purchasing a new roof.

April 7, 2019

Attic Ventilation

Attic Ventilation

Construction code requirements for proper attic ventilation are sometimes overlooked. This is a big problem when it comes to your new roof and shingle warrantee. Contractors should include ventilated attic space as part of any building design.

International Residential Code (IRC) and International Building Code (IBC), published by the International Code Council (ICC), include requirements for attic ventilation to help manage temperature and moisture in attic spaces. While those code requirements are understood to apply to habitable buildings, not everyone understands how the code addresses other accessory structures such as workshops, storage buildings, detached garages and other buildings. What’s the answer? The code treats all attic spaces the same, whether the space below the attic includes conditioned space or not.

The ventilated attic requirements in the 2015 IRC include the following language in Section R806.1: Enclosed attics and enclosed rafter spaces formed where ceilings are applied directly to the underside of roof rafters shall have cross ventilation for each separate space by ventilating openings protected against the entrance of rain or snow.

Accessory structure as defined in the IRC is a structure that is accessory to and incidental to that of the dwelling(s) and that is located on the same lot.

The IBC also includes attic ventilation requirements that are essentially the same as the IRC. Section 101.2 of the 2015 IBC states: The provisions of this code shall apply to the construction, alteration, relocation, enlargement, replacement, repair, equipment, use and occupancy, location, maintenance, removal and demolition of every building or structure or any appurtenances connected or attached to such buildings or structures.

This requirement for ventilated attics in accessory structures in the IBC and IRC is mandatory unless the attic is part of the conditioned space, and is sealed within the building envelope.

REMEMBER: When a claim is inspected and/or submitted, the proper ventilation information must be filled out on the inspection/lab report. The warranty requirement is a minimum of 1 square foot of net free attic vent area for every 150 square feet of attic floor space, or 1 square foot of net free attic vent for every 300 square feet of attic floor space.

How to use this information when having a new roof installed.

Having open and honest conversations with your contractors about the importance of ventilation is a part of the job. Nobody wants to deal with the painful conversations that come with unventilated or underventilated structures and what that can do to an asphalt shingle, so use a topic like “accessory structures” as a way to discuss your contractor’s current philosophy on ventilation, how they quote it, and how they calculate a balanced system.

Ventilation is important, so don’t hide from it!

February 23, 2019

How snow and ice can damage your roof.

Snow and ice damage

In the cold and winter months, everyone just wants to stay inside where it is nice and warm. Very few people realize that snow and ice can cause big damage to your roof.

Added Stress on the structure of your home.

Snow & ice can damage your roof and cause a major problem. When the temperature falls below freezing water that is coming down your roof will freeze in the lowest point of your roof it forms a big ice wall not letting anything to slide off your roof.

The freeze and thaw effect.

nothing is more dangerous that water coming in the smallest crack it can find on your roof. The water will freeze and expand the cracks. When the employees rise just enough to meltwater the crack will expand and let more water in just to freeze again. This pattern continues and will make the roof. less stable over time.

Reduced roof lifespan

When snow and ice accumulate on the rooftop, the reinforcements weaken. This will shorten the lifespan of your roof and require structural work to be repaired sooner than later.

February 17, 2019

DIY Roof inspection

Roof inspection

Your home is the biggest investment you make. The roof of your home is a very important part. Knowing what to do when it needs repair will protect your home from unwanted leaks and damage.

Inspect your roof at least once a year.

Your roof can get damage from high amounts of snow and rain. The best time to inspect your roof is in late spring when it is not to hot. When you inspect your roof look for bare spots the shingles. This is a sign of deteriorating shingles.

Signs of a damaged roof can also be inside your home.

Water spots on your ceiling or along the outside walls of your home. Check your attic once a year. Look for damaged wood or water spots on the wood or insulation. Wet insulation can cause a mold issue in your home that could have been prevented by fixing a leak or replacing your roof . Look for holes in your roof. Do this by looking for spots where light is coming into your attic. If you find any problems contact a roofing contractor to help you figure out what needs to be done.


January 12, 2019

10 tips to prepare for a home roof replacement

Roof Replacement

Getting a brand new roof can be an exciting experience. Kids and pets may watch in awe as they observe roofers ripping, tearing, hauling, and nailing – they may even want to sneak as close as possible to the action. That, of course is extremely dangerous. Once the roofing company arrives, your house is a work zone. Work zones, as you can imagine, pose unexpected hazards.

Long Roofing prioritizes making roof replacement stress-free and seamless. However, there are major safety precautions and preparations you can make so you’re 100% ready.

Here are 10 tips to help make your roof replacement go as smoothly as possible. At the end of the day, we want you and your family to stay safe when the shingles start to fly.

1. Think about kids & Pets.

Loud noises coming from the home may increase anxiety or disturb sleep habits. While it may be exciting to watch from a safe distance, work zones are extremely unsafe for children and pets.

Talk with your kids to explain that certain areas of the home or yard will be off-limits until the project is complete. Since young children and pets may not understand these dangers, you may be more comfortable visiting family or friends while your roof is replaced.

2. Relocate your vehicles.

Contractors need quick access to their tools and trucks throughout the day. They need a place to load shingles and debris. You’ll want to keep your vehicles a safe distance from this area until work is completed.

You should also keep your garage doors closed during construction to keep out dust and debris.

3. Remove wall decorations.

The vibrations from hammers and machinery on your roof may travel through some walls of your home, especially if repairs to the existing deck are needed.

  • Walk through the rooms on the level below your roof.
  • Consider any knick-knacks, pictures or other items that are hanging from your ceiling or walls.
  • As a precaution, remove any decorations that aren’t permanently secured with screws.

You may also choose to remove decorative light fixtures like chandeliers to play it safe.

4. Cover belongings in the attic.

During a roof replacement, numerous installers will be walking on your roof, pounding it with hammers. Dust or small debris will fall in attic spaces during a new roof installation.

You can keep personal items cleaner by covering them with old sheets or drop cloths until the roofing company is finished. Be prepared to do some light vacuuming in these areas after construction is complete.

5. Move grills and patio furniture away from the work zone.

A shed or garage is the best place to store outside items like grills, patio furniture, lawn ornaments, and potted plants while your new roof is installed.

If you don’t have on-site storage, you may want to put these items together in an area of the yard that is a safe distance from the work zone.

Keep in mind that most contractors will not help you move any personal items inside or outside the home.

6. Prune trees and cut grass before construction begins.

Any tree branches that hang low near your roof will need to be trimmed before your contractor can begin work.

Your contractor should use drop cloths to protect plants and grass in the immediate perimeter of your home, but you need to cut grass a day before construction begins.

Short grass will help keep fallen debris from hiding in your lawn, making cleanup faster and more thorough.

7. Identify several accessible power outlets.

Your contractors will need access to electrical outlets while they are working. Exterior outlets are preferred, but if your home does not have any, a garage outlet is the second-best choice.

If you don’t have an outlet outside or in a garage, keep in mind that extension cords may need to run through a window or door to get power outside. Extension cords can pose a tripping hazard, so choose an outlet in an area that doesn’t get a lot of foot traffic.

8. Remove antennas or satellite dishes.

If you have any antennas or satellite dishes located on or very near your roof, you’ll want to have them removed. Call your cable or satellite provider to make arrangements before roof work begins.

If it is an old, non-working unit, most roofing contractors will be happy to remove and dispose of it for you.

9. Talk to your neighbors.

Let your neighbors know about the planned work. Give them an anticipated timeframe for the duration. They will thank you! This will give them an opportunity to adjust their schedules and situations so that they can be most comfortable while the work is going on.

10. Be aware of your surroundings during construction.

Construction at your home can create unexpected obstacles. Extension cords or other construction equipment that isn’t normally there offer some fine opportunities to really hurt yourself. Stay extra alert during this time to prevent avoidable injuries.

Finally, it is always best to communicate with your roofing company throughout the roof installation process. Ask if they have any other suggestions to make this work smoother for their crew and your family.

Most importantly, remember that this construction and any inconvenience it brings is temporary. Soon you will have the new roof that you’ve been waiting for.

November 30, 2018

How does a roof damage insurance claim work?

Roof Damage insurance banner

Naturally, the claims process will vary from carrier to carrier. However, it is important to keep in mind that your insurance company may at first attempt to deny your claim in order to maintain as much profitability as possible. Your best defense whenever this happens is persistence and a thorough understanding of your insurance policy. Here are a few tips on what to do to prepare to make your claim.

  1. Start by assessing all of the damage done by the storm. Take careful notes, including the date of the incident and any damage that you can see. You can also take pictures of any damage.
  2. Meet with your local roofing contractor to begin obtaining estimates. Ask them to help you deal with the insurance adjuster when they come out to perform a full roof inspection. We highly recommend that you select a roofing contractor and have them present during the inspection to be sure that the adjuster sees everything that needs to be repaired or replaced.
  3. Don’t take no for an answer. If your home has been damaged by a storm in any way, it can lead to decreased value and future damage if not repaired quickly. Insist on meeting with another adjuster.
  4. Once your claim has been approved, the contractor of your choice can begin repairing the damage.

Although the entire process can be intimidating and the number of steps involved makes it seem rather complicated, filing an insurance claim is a fairly easy process. With a high quality roofing contractor, you can have both the claims process and the repairs completed in no time.

Here are some tips to help you with getting the repairs done:

  • Always hire a high quality roofing contractor that has experience dealing with insurance companies, not the cheapest one that you can find.
  • Although most policies give you up to two years to file a claim, know what your policy provides and don’t wait! The sooner you file the claim, the faster you can get the damage repaired.
  • Understand your policy as thoroughly as possible.
  • Avoid fly-by-night contractors.
  • Roof storm damage claims should not increase your rates.

Often roof storm damage is not noticeable by partnering with a reputable roofing contractor who understands the issues is a benefit. If you do have storm damage, let your roofing contractor guide you through the insurance claim process, including negotiating the correct scope of work required to fix the damage the right way the first time.

November 13, 2018

How long will it take to put a new roof on my home?

Before and After How long will it take to put a new roof on my home

After we know what type of roofing and the size of your roof we can assess the length of the project. For the average roof a shingle replacement takes 1-2 days, and for larger homes it takes anywhere from 2-4 days. We strive to meet the estimated times although we might face unforeseen difficulties such as bad weather, or wood that needs replaced which could potentially delay the progress.