Gutters are an important part of any home’s exterior. They protect your home’s foundation and landscaping from excess water and redirect water to favorable routes. If you live anywhere it rains, gutters are a necessity. Whether you are building a new home, adding gutters to your current home, or replacing existing gutters, choosing the right gutters for your home isn’t always a simple choice. For many years the only option for gutters was the traditional, sectional gutters. Now, you have the option of selecting seamless gutters for your home. There are many benefits of seamless gutters, which is why they have become more popular. Read on to figure out if they’re right for your home.

What Are Seamless Gutters?

Seamless gutters are exactly what their name suggests — they are simply gutters without seams! Seamless gutters are one singular piece of gutter that conforms seamlessly to your home’s shape. A professional gutter contractor will measure your home, and run the aluminum through a large roll forming machine to make the gutters for your home. Once installed, you’ll have a gutter that fits perfectly to your home and you can enjoy all the benefits of seamless gutters.

Seamless Gutters vs Regular Gutters

What makes seamless gutters different from regular gutters is just that — they lack seams. Traditional gutters are cut in sections and fitted together at the corners of your home. Though the sectional design of regular gutters makes them more cost-effective and easy to install, they also present some challenges. Seamless gutters are an improvement on traditional gutters for many reasons.

Seamless Gutters Pros

Benefits of seamless gutters that sectional gutters simply don’t have:

Seamless gutters are stronger than sectional gutters.

Because seamless gutters are made of one singular piece, they are much stronger than traditional sectional gutters. Sectional gutters will have weak points at their joints. The strength of the seamless gutter equates to less need for repair.

Seamless gutters have significantly fewer leaks and rust.

Because seamless gutters don’t have any joints, there are fewer chances of leaks. Sectional gutters can leak where different sections meet and require repairs. Because seamless gutters are less prone to leaks, they are also less prone to rust.

Seamless gutters will have fewer clogs.

Because seamless gutters don’t have joints, they have fewer crevices for debris to build up. Less debris build-up means fewer clogs and fewer times you’ll have to get up on that ladder.

Seamless gutters are custom fit to your home.

A professional gutter contractor offering seamless gutters will fit the seamless gutter to your home resulting in a perfect match. Gutters custom fit to your home will make them more efficient. No awkward gaps or joints means your seamless gutters can do their job effectively.

Seamless gutters look great!

Seamless gutters offer functional benefits, but they also add visual appeal! They are also more aesthetically pleasing than sectional gutters due to their lack of seams, bolts, and the like. Plus, seamless gutters come in many colors to compliment your home.

Seamless Gutters Cons

Though seamless gutters offer many benefits, there are also cons to consider:

Seamless gutters are more expensive.

Because seamless gutters require special machinery and expertise to install, they are often more expensive than a traditional sectional gutter.

You’ll Have to Replace the Whole Gutter

If your seamless gutter does get damaged for whatever reason, you’ll have to replace the whole gutter. Because seamless gutters are one piece, you won’t be able to just replace one section like you can with a sectional gutter.

It’s Not a DIY Project

If you’re the kind of person that likes to do their own home projects, a seamless gutter is not for you. It requires special machinery and expertise to install, which means you’ll need to contact a gutter professional.

Are Seamless Gutters Right for Your Home?

When it comes time to choose what gutters are right for your home, be sure to weigh the pros and cons of seamless gutters. Though seamless gutters are more expensive, they result in less maintenance. It’s important to think about what matters more for your home. Would you prefer less maintenance and a more aesthetically pleasing look, or would you rather opt for more maintenance but a cheaper price tag? Whatever you choose, Apex Roofing is here for you!

Call Apex Roofing for Seamless Gutters in Virginia

Whatever gutter you choose, Apex Roofing has you covered! We aren’t just roofing contractors — we have many years of experience installing gutters and have the equipment and expertise to install any type of gutter. We guarantee friendly and professional service by our team and that you’ll be happy with the end result. Please give us a call at 434-443-ROOF or fill out our online form for a free quote!

Replacing your roof is a big deal, and we’re guessing that’s why you’re here. Like any good homeowner, if you’ve decided it’s time for a new roof, you’ve started doing your research. You’re talking to your insurance company, looking for the best contractor, the best prices, and of course, trying to decide what kind of roof to actually get. There are many different types of roofing materials nowadays, so homeowners have plenty of options. Fortunately, plentiful options mean you can have your home looking just the way you want. But on the other hand, more options mean more decisions to be made and perhaps a more difficult decision-making process. You’re likely considering shingle, slate, copper, or metal for your roof. And if you live here in the Charlottesville area, you know that metal roofs have become more and more popular. So, should you get a metal roof?

Why You Should Get a Metal Roof

Style

Metal roofs have become more popular here in Virginia and throughout the country for good reason! One of the reasons that metal roofs have become a popular choice among homeowners is their wide variety of color options. Unlike asphalt shingles, metal roofs come in dozens of colors, allowing you to choose the perfect color for your home. Neutral colors are always popular, but if you want to add more pop to your home, you can also opt for various shades of blue, red, green, and more.

Lower Energy Bills

Choosing a metal roof for your home wouldn’t just add to your curb appeal, it would also likely lower your energy bill! Metal roofs will reflect sunlight instead of absorbing it like other materials. This reflective property of metal roofs means your HVAC doesn’t have to work nearly as hard. Using your HVAC system less will directly translate into a lower energy bill and more money in your pocket!

Environmentally Friendly

Another reason why more people are choosing metal roofs for their homes is that they are more environmentally friendly. Metal roofs have a very long lifespan if installed correctly. A metal roof could last you over 50 years! This increased lifespan, when compared to other types of roofing materials, means less waste overall for the planet. In addition, they often contain recycled materials and can be recycled themselves when they do need to be replaced. If you consider yourself an environmentally conscious person, these are all great reasons to get a metal roof.

Durability

Lastly, metal roofs are incredibly durable. Metal roofs are so durable that they can last over 50 years if installed properly and maintained well. Compared to a lifespan of 25 for shingle roofs, this is incredible! The properties of metal also make it fire-resistant. This added safety makes a metal roof an ideal choice for those in dryer climates. Metal roofs are also extremely waterproof and can withstand high wind speeds as well! Due to how a metal roof is fabricated and installed, it offers a much smaller chance of leakage when compared to other types of roofs. If you live in a wet part of the country, this is a great reason to get a metal roof. They can also withstand winds up to 150 miles per hour if installed correctly due to their durability.

Whether you’re looking for style, eco-friendliness, or simply durability in your next roof, a metal roof has it all. If you’re ready for your roof replacement and have chosen to get a metal roof, we would be happy to provide you with a free quote!

Why You May Not Want a Metal Roof

Though metal roofs offer many great benefits, they may not be the choice for everyone. Just like anything else in life, you will pay more for better quality. The price tag of a metal roof is often the largest drawback, as they can cost anywhere from 2 to 4 times as much as a shingle roof depending on where you live and what contractor you hire. If you’re planning on being in your home for a long time, the investment is worth it. However, if you’re not in your forever home, it may not be worth the extra money to install a metal roof, and a standard asphalt shingle roof will do the job.

In addition to the large price tag, another drawback of metal roofs is that they expand and contract with weather changes and may need additional accessories. The expansion and contraction of your metal roof due to the temperature may result in minor repairs being needed, though metal roofs tend to be much less maintenance than other types of roofs. Also, because metal roofs are so slippery, you may also find yourself needing to install snow guards depending on where you live. If you live in a part of the country with lots of precipitation, large amounts of snow or ice that accumulates on your metal roof could end up sliding off all at once, potentially damaging things (like your gutters) or people below. If you live here in Virginia, we always recommend installing snow guards.

Lastly, a metal roof’s durability relies largely on whether it was properly installed. Pick the wrong roofing contractor, and your metal roof may not be as durable as it should be. If you do decide to get a metal roof, make sure you do your research on a good roofing contractor. Ask friends and neighbors, check out the company’s reviews, and look for certifications and licenses to ensure the job will be done right!

Choose Apex Roofing for Your Metal Roof in Virginia

If you’re in Charlottesville or the surrounding area and are ready to replace your roof, we are here to help! Apex Roofing has been Charlottesville’s trusted roofing contractor for over ## years. We are licensed, insured, GAF certified, and an NRCA member. If you’ve chosen to invest in a metal roof for your home, we will get the job done right, guaranteeing you the optimal durability of your new metal roof. Give us a call today at 434-443-ROOF or fill out our online form today for a free quote. We look forward to serving you!

Having a roof over your head is one of our basic safety needs. We all need a home — a shelter to protect us from the elements and a place to raise our families. As long as the roof is there, we are content to live our lives without really thinking about it. But if you don’t check your roof occasionally, you could find yourself needing a roof replacement. At Apex Roofing, we recommend inspecting your roof once or twice a year to ensure it’s in prime condition. So, if you’re doing your due diligence by checking your roof, what should you look for to indicate it may need to be replaced? Check out these ten signs that you may need a new roof:

You can see light or water coming through.

When inspecting your roof to see if you may need a new roof soon, the best place to start is in your attic. Take a flashlight up with you and look at the eaves. Can you see any sunlight coming through? Can you see water coming through, or black streaks where water was coming through? If you do, you may need a new roof.

The ceiling or roof is sagging.

Does your roof appear to be sagging in the middle or in certain areas? If your roof has a saddle-like shape, chances are you have some rot or trapped moisture that’s causing damage to your roof. It will likely need major repairs or you may need a new roof altogether.

It has sustained wind, hail, or storm damage.

If your roof has sustained wind, hail, or storm damage, odds are it will need to be replaced sooner rather than later. These types of storms can cause lasting problems for your roof if not repaired properly or replaced within a given time frame. Have a professional come inspect your roof to report on the extent of the damage. We are happy to speak with insurance adjusters to ensure your claim will cover an entire new roof.

It’s over a certain age.

If your roof is older than 25 years, it’s time to get it replaced. If your roof was properly installed and is within 20-25 years old, you can most likely get by with repairs. However, if you purchased your home without knowing the age of the roof, review your records to figure out when the roof was last replaced or installed. Give us a call for a free inspection when the time comes.

Missing or broken shingles.

A few missing or broken shingles can just mean a repair is needed. However, when there are many missing or broken shingles, you may need a new roof soon. Many missing or broken shingles are a good sign your roof may soon be leaking and is probably due for a replacement.

Curling shingles.

Shingles that are in good working order should rest flat against the roof. If your shingles are starting to curl, this could be an indication that they are reaching the end of their useful life. Have a roofing professional examine your roof to see if it needs replacing.

Your shingles are mossy.

Moss on your roof can be a cosmetic issue, but it could also mean that there is moisture trapped in your roof. Contact a roofing professional for further evaluation. You can also contact a roof washing specialist to take care of the moss, but make sure to address any underlying issues with the roof structure.

Damaged flashing.

Flashing is an important part of your roof as it keeps water out of chimneys, vents, skylights, and other important aspects of your roof and home. If the flashing of your roof is damaged, it could lead to leaks and further roof damage. Make sure your flashing is in good condition, and upgrade to metal flashing for extra durability to avoid the need for a roof replacement.

Dark streaks.

Dark streaks on your roof can be more than a cosmetic issue. These dark streaks can usually be cleaned up by a professional, but they could also indicate trapped moisture in the roof. Keep an eye on how many dark streaks you see and how quickly they come back after being removed.

Excessive gutter build-up.

Gutter build-up can be more than just leaves. If your gutters are overflowing, check for granules from the shingles. If you notice lots of shingle scraps or granules, this could mean that your shingles are nearing the end of their useful life and may need to be replaced. Need help inspecting your gutters? We can do that too!

Not Sure if Your Virginia Home Needs a New Roof?

It’s always better to be safe than sorry, especially when it comes to your roof! If you notice any of the above happening to your roof, give us a call! Apex Roofing offers free, no-obligation quotes so that you can have peace of mind. Whether your roof just needs a repair, requires a full replacement, or needs some gutters, we’ve got you covered. Give us a call at 434-443-ROOF or fill out our online form today. We are the best roofing company in the Charlottesville area, and we look forward to serving you!