Quality Roofing Solutions

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Will my roof support my solar panels? 

Is it worth it to install solar on my roof if it will need to be replaced or should I consider alternative installation areas?

How can I both upgrade my roof and install solar at the same time?

How much will a solar + roofing installation set me back

Do tax credits and rebates apply if I get a solar + roofing bundle deal?

Who even offers solar + roofing bundles? Is that a thing?‍

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Any reputable solar company will tell you that the first thing you should do when looking into solar for your home is evaluate your roof. Our team of experts have been bundling solar + roofing for over 45 years and want to help your home improvement upgrades as seamlessly as possible. 

Evaluating Your Home for a Solar + Roofing Bundle

Evaluating your home includes a number of factors. Your solar company should help you analyze your current and projected energy usage, natural obstacles as well as roof type and health. In order to facilitate this, you should probably know how your roof works!

Understanding your roof 

Knowing all the parts of a roof can help you save money, diagnose heating and cooling issues and protect your home from water damage

There are many components that make up a roof, and these will vary depending on the style, age, region and materials of your home. You can learn about a few of the most common components that make up a roof below:

Rafters: Think of the rafters like the skeletal system of your roof. Rafters give your roof its shape and serve as an integral part of any roofing upgrade. 

Trusses: Some roofs use trusses instead of rafters. Because trusses require fewer materials, they are often more affordable than rafters but just as strong, which is why many newer American homes use them.

Covering: When most people think of their roof, they think of the covering. Your roof’s covering is the part that’s most visual from the outside. It’s also primarily responsible for protecting your home from weather damage.

Today, roof coverings consist of a variety of materials, including:

Fascia: Roof fascia is a series of wooden boards that give structure to the side of your house. 

Without fascia, your gutters and downspouts would virtually have no support and would just hang off the side of your home.

Gutters: Gutter systems guide rainwater off your roof and direct it away from your home. They prevent water from pooling on your roof and channel water away from the area right next to your home, so rainwater doesn’t seep into your home’s foundation. Gutters are one of the most important factors to preventing water damage. 

You will also hear about components such as flashing, ridge, drip edge, fascia, chimneys, downspouts, soffits, skylights, etc.

Anatomy of a roof

If any of the parts that make up your roof have damage or if your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan, you will need to replace it before going solar. 

Replacing Your Roof with Solar Panels

If you do decide to install solar but opt out of a solar + roofing bundle, you will need to keep in mind that your solar panels will likely outlive your roof. What does that mean? It means that, without doubt, your roof will need to be replaced while you still have functional solar panels on them. This also means that you will need to remove your solar panels before replacing your roof. As a result, your roof replacement will likely cost a lot more, considering the additional labor, time and expertise required. It may also result in you having to contract two different companies: one to remove and replace your solar panels, and one to redo your roof. You also have to consider the increase in electricity bills that you will see when your solar panels are off your roof and offline. 

Considering all of these factors, we cannot stress enough how important it is to avoid having to replace your roof after installing solar on your home.

Bundling Solar + Roofing

While bundling your solar + roofing projects may seem to increase your upfront cost, by choosing the right installer, you can find great deals to drive down prices. 

If you think you may need to replace your roof before installing solar, then find a company that will bundle your solar + roofing projects for the best deals! This will allow you peace of mind knowing that your new roof can support your state-of-the-art panels and help cut down on the inevitable costs of having to install solar and replace your roof!

Solar + roofing really is a match made in heaven. If you have going solar on your list of priorities, you may have your roof and roof life top-of-mind as well. And it makes sense! Solar panels should power your home for 20 to 25 years, depending on the materials used and maintenance provided throughout their lifespan. That means decades of savings for you and your family!As a result, it is only natural that you think of your roof and roof life when considering making the switch to solar. Commonly, homeowners will ask themselves a ton of questions relating to their roof:‍

A house without a roof is just a set of walls, and a roof is often one of those things that people take for granted – until it malfunctions. A solid and reliable roof is worth its weight in gold, so when the time for repairs or even replacement comes around, you want a roofing contractor that knows what they’re doing, to avoid wasting your time and your money. But where do you find such an elusive unicorn of a service provider?

Most people decide whose services they are going to use based on the figures. A quote that comes in too high is more likely to be ignored, but the opposite is an equal risk – a quote in which the contractor doesn’t charge enough can come with additional complications, like poor workmanship and in the worst-case scenario, dishonest dealings. This is why checking references at every point of the selection process is vital.

Carefully weigh up all the options once you reach a shortlist of local roofing contractors, and remember to also check the company’s social media pages for reviews and feedback from former clients – this is one of the easiest ways to get real-life references and check the veracity of the service provider’s claims.

I would like to find a roofing contractor near me

Finding a reputable roofing contractor near you is almost like employing someone, so in your selection process, you need to ensure that you ask the right questions to help narrow down your options. The first step is to determine the condition of your roof. The average roof’s lifespan is anywhere between 20 and 30 years, so a professional assessment of the crucial components’ wear and tear is generally considered the best place to start. Some signs could give you a clue that it’s time to call in the professionals.

What are the warning signs?

Loose or missing shingles, any leaks in the roof (and any stains or marks that may have formed as a result), as well as swollen roof components or any areas that appear dented or about to collapse are all cause for concern. If these symptoms persist even after work was done, the blame lies with the team who did the work.

How do I choose the best roofing contractor near me?

Local businesses depend on their communities for patronage, but if you are not 100% comfortable with the services on offer, there is nothing wrong with looking for help that is not as local as you might have hoped. Choosing local for the sake of local, without doing your homework, leaves you at risk of ending up with a nearby roofing contractor who doesn’t have to travel far, but whose work might leave much to be desired. Also take care if you are looking to replace your roof after natural disasters, like storms or tornadoes – this is the traditional time for disreputable companies (and even fraudsters!) to appear, where they either undercut the prices of regular contractors, or simply disappear with your money after no service has been delivered.

When you choose a roofing contractor, take note of what guarantees and warranties they offer – you’ll thank yourself later.

What is the most advisable roofing type?

The answer to this question lies in what your requirements are, and you need to factor in several factors, like your local climate and likely weather conditions, your budget and personal preference into consideration. Asphalt shingles or metal are the most popular choices for the construction of modern roofs, and each type has its own set of positives and negatives, based on individual circumstances. Many people go for metal roofing for the aesthetics it provides, but you need to bring everything into consideration before making your final choice.

Should I repair or replace a leaky roof?

Again, the “real” answer will be addressed only if you look at the full picture, such as what type of leak it is, what caused it, how big it is, and how much damage of what kind it caused. Your best bet would be to consult a professional to do an assessment, but the overall condition of the roof and its supporting hardware will greatly determine the need for replacing vs repairing.

How many years can I expect to get out of my roof?

While your prevalent local weather conditions, as well as the amount of maintenance you put in over time will change the answer, asphalt shingles are expected to last for approximately 20to 30 years. If your roof is nearing this part of its lifespan, you might want to start looking for a roofing companies near your area to give you some competitive quotes. Perhaps you get a pleasant surprise and find out that your roof is still in good condition, but rather be ahead of the curve and avoid guesswork in the later years of your roof’s expected lifespan. 

Metal roofs can last up to 70 years if properly maintained. It may be a more pricey option, but what you pay for upfront will be made up over time in longevity.

Although it is a big job, the good news is that it doesn’t take as long to replace a roof as you might imagine. Of course, building size and structure will affect this calculation, but an average-sized home can be reroofed within a day, with the help of a good contractor. Larger buildings, like those for commercial applications will, by their very nature, take longer.

Am I seeing things, or are the shingles on my roof changing color?

Mold, algae, fungal growth and other invasive guests love shingles, especially in a humid climate, and this can play a large role in the discoloration of this material. You need to address them as soon as you become aware of them, to prevent further issues or damage later on. If the job is too big to handle, call in a pro to halt the damage in its tracks.

Is a new roof going to bankrupt me?

The size of the roof, the material you choose and other factors will modify this answer. Chat to your local roofing contractor about getting a quote that best addresses your needs.

GAF partnered with leading roofing and solar manufacturers to offer an elegant, low-profile GAF solar solution. The solar installs like a skylight, ensuring a water-tight roof that generates clean energy. GAF solar offers one warranty for the roof and solar panels. And, GAF-certified roofers will do all the work on the roof, including a seamless solar installation. 

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While seeing major brands recognize and leverage the value of bundling solar + roofing, other installers have offered consumers similar solutions for decades now.
. Since the 1980s, AMECO has provided bundled solar + roofing solutions to help homeowners cut down on costs and time when replacing their roof and choosing clean energy generation via rooftop solar panels. 

GAF Solar + Roofing Approach

When a homeowner goes solar one issue that can derail the process is unexpectedly finding out they first a roof replacement. Our solar and roofing experts always recommend a thorough roof inspection before going solar to avoid any surprises. This is especially critical for older roofs. 

If you do need a roof replacement before going solar, traditionally this often means double the effort: managing two projects with two sets of budgets, contractors and timelines. In short, it means more money and effort on your end coordinating between two installers. 

Fortunately, GAF Energy’s new roof-integrated solar system provides a better option. The GAF solar + roof solution. This comes with a solar system that’s installed simultaneously by one contractor.

The best things about GAF’s solar + roofing bundle are: 

As mentioned before, this solution is incredible for homeowners. However, GAF is by far the first company to offer services like these. Although, they may be one of the biggest roofing companies to finally embrace this approach.

Solar + Roofing Trend & AMECO’s Approach

Bundling your solar and roofing just makes sense. 

Sometimes additional upfront costs can save you in the long run. If you think you need to replace your roof before going solar, you can cut down on the costs by finding an installer that does both. This eliminates the headache of coordinating between two different vendors and can cut down on the cost. 

Installers that specialize in roofing and solar, like AMECO, offer great deals for homeowners looking to upgrade their roof and install solar in one fell swoop. We also have the expertise to ensure you can take full advantage of federal, state and local rebates and incentives. 

GAF Solar Roof: A Tesla Competitor

GAF found a way to create an integrated rooftop solar solution, not unsimilar in functionality to Tesla’s solar roof. The biggest difference? Accessibility. 

The GAF solar roof seamlessly integrates with their roofing, which makes for an extremely visually appealing final product. And, based on their current number of installations, they seem to offer a reliable solution!

GAF Energy, part of GAF, one of the world’s largest roofing companies, has installed more than 2,000 integrated solar roofs. This is significantly more deployments than the higher-profile Tesla has pulled off for its solar roof tile product.

Martin DeBono, president of GAF Energy, told Canary Media he expects 10 percent of all GAF roof installations to also feature solar. Considering their estimated 1 million new roofing installations annually, DeBono hopes to see 100,000 annual solar roof installations from GAF. 

While Tesla installs a similar product, they have nowhere near the roofing infrastructure to compete with GAF’s solar solution. Also, considering the recent outpouring of negative reviews of the Tesla Solar Roof, GAF Energy’s solar + roofing installation numbers, current and projected, look that much more impressive. 

Solar + Roofing: Looking To The Future

Seeing one of North America’s most prolific roofers embracing solar + roofing should cast away any doubt that the future of roofing is solar. As one of the companies to spearhead this approach, the solar and roofing experts at AMECO are ready and excited to help you with your solar and roofing needs. We offer full-scale solutions at prices you can afford. Leveraging almost 50 years of experience, coupled with a unparalleled dedication to innovation, you cannot go wrong by
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How to Save on Your Electricity Bill NOW

This August was a very warm month for California. Did you know that it was the hottest August Earth has ever recorded? These hot months unfortunately contribute to much higher electricity bills. Luckily, having gone solar, hot days don’t have as drastic an effect. With the hottest days on record however, everyone’s electricity bills went up. Unfortunately, utilities limited the size of your solar system to your previous annual use. When you use more, the utility will charge you accordingly.

Southern California Edison redesigned rates to eliminate the top tier. Edison announced this summer that rates were increasing 8% for homes. That’s the average increase however, and the energy conscious are getting a worse deal. Customers who stay within the tier one and two will see those rates increase 12% and 17%, respectively.

We’ve come up with a few ways to help use your air conditioner (AC) less and keep your wallet happy, even if you don’t have solar, yet.

1) Turn It Off

Efficiency is usually lost to heat. If you put your hand next to an incandescent light bulb and an LED light bulb, there’s a big temperature difference. More efficient appliances expel less heat, but it’s better if you can turn it off!  If you’re not using your printer or DVD player, you’re generating unnecessary heat in your home.

2) Natural Ventilation

Simple enough. Open your windows at night to cool down your house and close them during the day. You can help by closing your blinds during the day as well.

3) Plant an Indoor Garden

This one is counter-intuitive to the drought problem we’re facing. Plants can actually cool the air through evapotranspiration. This means that as air flows over their leaves, the small amounts of water evaporate and cool the air. Placing large leafy plants in areas with air flow or near windows can help cool the air flowing through the house. It can also purify the air naturally! Check out English Ivy and other options on NASA’s air purifying plants list.

4) The MacGyver Hack

You’re going to need incense, matches, and some caulk. Even with your windows and doors shut, your house isn’t air tight. There are tiny holes in your windows, doors, and frames that are letting your conditioned air out! Light a piece of incense and run it along your windows and doors.  When the smoke wavers, you have a hole. Use the caulk to plug up that hole.  This is best done on windy days or there’s a large temperature difference inside/outside.

5) Improve Your Windows with Blinds and Tinting

Those dastardly windows are letting all that warm sunshine in! However, there are many fixes. The easiest option is to install blinds. Tinting your windows can block a significant portion of heat coming through. Upgrading your windows to low-emissivity (low-e) will block the heat without blocking nearly as much light. A better insulation rating for your window will also improve performance.

6) Insulation

Insulating your house helps it maintain a constant temperature. This stops extra heating in the summer and extra cooling in the winter. Attic insulation can be easily installed and have a dramatic effect.

7) More Efficient Air Conditioner

There are actually lots of options out there including evaporative cooling AC units as well as single room units. Be sure to get the one that best fits your needs. You may be eligible for some utility rebates!

8) Pool Hack

This concept is technically called “Evaporative Cooling”.  There are also some highly efficient evaporative cooling air conditioners that can lower your bill, but that isn’t as fun as justifying a pool! If you have a pool in your backyard, the temperature around the pool is a little lower. Create a draft from your pool by opening windows and turning on fans. The air that passing over the water is cooled before it enters your house. If you open an upstairs window, you can create a stacked ventilation effect that pushes hot air out as it drags in the cooler air from your pool. This doesn’t work in every situation, but it’s fun to try.

9) Install this on your Roof

You thought we were going to say solar, right? We’ll get to that, but an attic fan is a great way to vent excess heat from your house.  A whole house fan is another option, but is a little more complicated than an attic fan, which can also be solar powered.

10) Only Cool What You Use

When you’re at home, you’re not using every room in my house. Why cool the guest room if you are napping on the couch? The easiest option is to just close vents to specific rooms. Another option could be a single room air conditioner or a smart thermostat.

11) Replace your “Dumb” Thermostat

Criminals are aware of this, but did you know a lot of houses are empty during the day? Luckily, we have security systems, web cams, and cute dogs to protect us.  Similar to only cooling what you use, make sure you aren’t cooling unnecessarily. A programmable or smart thermostat, like a Nest, can make sure you only cool when you’re home and it changes the temperature for cooling at night.  Nests even help the compressor on your air conditioner work more efficiently.

12) SOLAR

Obviously we were going to put this in…but please hear us out. When you install solar, it turns your meter backwards. The best part is that it reduces the most expensive electricity first in a tiered rate plan. This means that the solar being produced isn’t worth the average $.12/kWh, but it’s worth $.30/kWh. Solar protects you from paying the highest tier’s prices. On commercial buildings, it was found that having solar helped reduce their cooling costs by shading the building. In other words, they didn’t have to cool as much, and they wound up saving 5% of the system’s initial cost. Thanks UCSD for studying this!

We understand efficiency upgrades can be expensive. Never forget, there is financing out there to help you. Want to find out if you qualify for a free solar estimate?

FYI: If you have an existing solar system that isn’t producing enough, you can add panels to your system.  In SCE territory, you can add 10% or 1 kW of capacity without changing your net metering contract.  If you add the capacity before NEM 1.0 is over (July 2017) then you can add as much capacity as needed.

Do you have a way to be more energy efficient? We’d love to hear them! Share your ideas and suggestions with us on Twitter or Facebook.