Aluminum Shakes Recognized

In the January 5, 2008 edition of the Chicago Daily Herald, someone posed a question to their Home and Gardens editor considering roofing options. This person wanted the look of wood shakes on their home but they were concerned about the ultimate durability of those products.

In answering their question, the editor went through a very comprehensive description of wood shakes, the various types of wood and respective attributes of each. But, after going through all of that, they ended their answer with the following:

For the longest lasting roof, consider installing an aluminum roof formed to simulate cedar shakes. From the ground, it looks authentic. The large panels make installation quicker than real shakes or shingles. The aluminum roof can keep your house cooler during the summer and it is fireproof so your insurance premiums may be lower. ? Chicago Daily Herald

Considering that Classic Metal Roofing Systems is the only manufacturer of aluminum shake products, we certainly appreciate their recognition of the durability and beauty of our products!

Tags: aluminum shakes, wood shakes

The recommendation for roof replacement doesn?t have to send shivers down your spine ? there are ways to save money on this hefty home investment. Instead of depleting your vacation fund or maxing out a credit card, follow these tips from the roofing experts at Able Roof.

We?ve been in the business of affordable reroofing since 1986, and aim to help you make your new roof more affordable. Next time you hear you need a new roof, you?ll take the news without batting an eyelash.

File a Homeowners Insurance Claim

Before you pay anything out of pocket, call your homeowners insurance company. Your policy may cover certain types of roof damage, such as storm damage. If you have to replace your roof due to damage from rain, hail, or wind, your policy probably covers repairs and replacements. This is also true for hurricanes, tornadoes, and other ?acts of God.?

Your insurer may offer to cover some or all of the costs of roof replacement, as well as repairs to your home?s exterior. Several factors determine whether or not you qualify for coverage. Talk to your insurer before calling a roofing contractor. Able Roof can help with insurance claims to help you get the most out of your policy.

Compare Price Estimates

The only way to ensure the best deal is to compare a few price estimates from different local contractors. Most contractors, including Able Roof, will give free estimates for new roofs at no obligation. An Able Roof inspector will come to your home free of charge to give you an honest estimate. You are under no obligation to work with our company after this process. Gather a few price estimates from different contractors in central Ohio and select the best option for your project goals and budget.

However, remember that a low price isn?t everything. Don?t jump at the lowest price and think it means you got the best deal. Compare the price estimate with the value you will get from the company.

For example, at Able Roof you?ll receive a warranty that?s good for as long as you live in your home. This applies to materials and labor. Your roofing job will also have the highest quality materials and professional, licensed roofers. Take the benefits of the company into account when comparing price quotes. Get started with a free estimate from Able Roof!

Avoid Scams

On your search for the ideal roofing contractor, learn how to tell the real deals from the scams. There are a few common scams you might find in this industry, such as roofers giving you price estimates that seem too good to be true. Dishonest contractors may low-ball estimates to secure business, and then increase the price after you?ve paid your deposit. Also look out for ?storm chasers? ? companies that stop at homes door-to-door after a storm to get you to sign up for services on the spot. Avoid these scams by carefully researching the contractor you choose. Read the company?s reviews and testimonials, and search for a Better Business Bureau rating.

Find a Financing Plan

Can?t pay for your new roof in one lump sum? You?re in the majority. Not many homeowners can ? or want to ? pay for the entire price of a new roof in one large payment. Find a roofer that has flexible financing options to help you tackle the price of roof replacement.

At Able Roof, we provide financing through Wells Fargo Financial National Bank. You can get convenient, low-priced monthly payment plans and special financing options for residential roofing services. We want you to get your roof at a lower price without compromising quality. Our monthly payment plans typically start at $69 per month for new roofs. Apply for financing today.

Ask for Proof of Payment

Some unfortunate homeowners have found themselves in a pickle when the roofer they choose doesn?t pay the material bill. Typically, a roofing company will pay the material bill after it completes a job and receives payment. If the roofer doesn?t pay, the supplier of the materials could potentially encumber your property. This is a financial disaster you can avoid by making sure your roofer gives you proof of payment to the supplier. At Able Roof, it?s our policy to always supply this proof during every job.

Consider Long-Term Returns

When considering the price of a new roof, factor in your return on investment. Make the most out of your new roof by choosing the best possible quality for the price. A roof with high-quality materials and experienced roofers will last longer than a rushed job. Trusting the right roofing company can mean fewer repairs in the future, ultimately saving you money. It can also postpone the date when you?ll have to pay for another new roof. Stretch the lifespan of your investment with help from Able Roof.

The Right Material

Depending on where you live, it may be beneficial to use one type of roofing material over another. While asphalt shingles aren?t the most energy efficient material, they can be very cost effective. In warm climates (like Texas) a brightly colored asphalt or metal roof can help keep your home cooler during the summer. Discuss your options with one of our experienced contractors.

The Right Maintenance

You can have the most energy-efficient material made, but if you don?t upkeep it properly, you will get a lot of heat and cooling that will escape through your roof. Did you know that a poorly ventilated or leaky roof could cause your utility bill to go sky high? You could be paying a lot more each month without even knowing. With an annual inspection and regular roofing maintenance, you can assure that your roof will be as efficient as possible.

The Right Contractor

Lap vs Box Joint

Hand tongs come in two styles, lap and box joint. aThe picture below outlines the difference in appearance.

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Why would you prefer one over the other?

• A lap joint overlapsaitself and then is riveted together. aThis is a very secure means of bringing the two forgings together. aHowever, over time if the rivet loosens, the tool can come apart. aExpect years of use.
• The two forgings of the box joint intersect with themselves before being riveted. aThis is the premier way of assembling a hand tong. aThe longevity of this means of joint should last a lifetime. aIt should be noted that this joint cannot be repaired. aHowever, there is no need to worry about this because it will never break.

Country of Origin

These hand tongs are being replicated overseas. aThis is a distinction that is very difficult to evaluate. aI?ve personally seen Stubai?s hand tongs being produced in Austria. aHere is a video of one of the processes:

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A box joint is going to be harder to reproduce. Since this method is also more expensive, there is less volume, and less reason to duplicate with regard to economies of scale. The likelihood of a box joint being high European quality is high. Knock offs of the lap joint are much more readily available.

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The Box Joint Sale

I have 7pcs of the 45 degree pliers and 15pcs of the 90 degree in 60mm box joint. aThe tongs are roughly 5 years old but have never been used. aI?m looking to pass these lifetime tools on at a very good price. aOur retail price for a box joint hand tong is $100.00. aThese are selling for $50 dollars each. aTake this opportunity to get set up with first class hand tongs that will last the rest of your working career.a aCall 888-847-3456 or visit the product page to purchase. aa

Don?t Forget!

We have added the new PVC coated hand tongs that will not leave marks on material. Currently we only have the straight but will soon offer the 45 degree. These work great on painted material.