What You Need to Know About Commercial Electrical Installation

by Posted in Electrician

Commercial Electrical Installation involves laying down conductors to connect the various building parts. It also entails using conduits and special receptacles for energy-draining equipment.

Unlike residential properties, commercial structures have different power demands and unique setups. Professional electricians understand these differences and apply the appropriate solutions for your business.

Wiring is essential for any electrical system, and commercial properties require a complex network of wires to support heavy machinery, hardware systems, and other equipment. The National Electrical Code (NEC) has specific requirements for all aspects of a commercial electrical installation. Failure to follow these standards can lead to dangerous electrical hazards, and the right professionals must handle all aspects of a commercial wiring project.

There are several different ways to wire a commercial property, and each has its pros and cons. The most common method is to use a raceway and conductor setup, which uses stiff or adjustable tubes and conduits that hold multiple insulated phases. This type of wiring can include an equipment grounding conductor, which is required by NEC guidelines.

Another way to wire a commercial property is to use a busway system, which consists of thick-walled conduits that are protected by an outer jacket. This type of system is typically used in industrial facilities, and it helps to protect against fire risks. In addition, it can be more easily routed and adjusted to accommodate changes in power requirements.

Finally, there is the NM cable method, which involves running flexible sheathed copper wires through conduits and rafters. This type of wiring is often used in office buildings and other business structures, and it can be more easily installed than traditional wiring methods.

The most important aspect of any commercial electrical wiring project is to follow NEC guidelines. This includes ensuring that the wiring is properly labeled and that all circuits are grouped together in order to minimize voltage drop and electromagnetic interference. It is also crucial that the proper grounding and bonding practices are followed, as well as following the guidelines for installing overcurrent protection devices (circuit breakers or fuses).

Electrical wiring is an intricate process, and it’s critical that it’s handled correctly to ensure safety and efficiency. A professional electrician will be able to create a detailed electrical plan for the building and determine the best locations for circuits, outlets, and switches. They will also be able to ensure that the wiring is in compliance with local codes and standards.

Sockets

The sockets in a commercial electrical installation allow power to be connected to appliances and machines. They also serve as the entry point for electricity from the power grid, connecting to a distribution panel board that distributes the power throughout the building. Understanding the different types of plugs and sockets helps ensure that a safe, efficient electrical system is in place.

Commercial spaces require more outlets than residential buildings, but the number of sockets needed is determined by many factors including floor occupancy and cabling. The number of sockets must be evenly spaced to avoid overlapping outlets, which increases the risk of fire and overloading. Socket locations are often carefully planned to prevent unauthorized tampering and theft.

A single-phase socket has two current-carrying pins that match the openings and female contacts of an energised plug. Some plugs have a third pin for a safety connection to ground. Plugs are shaped to reduce the risk of bodily contact with live pins, and contacts in sockets may be sheathed in insulation to prevent foreign objects from being inserted into energized metal.

Several different types of sockets are used in countries around the world, and many are compatible with one another. The most common socket type in the United States is NEMA 5-15, which has two flat parallel blades rated for 15 amps at 125 volts and a third pin that connects to a ground wire. There are also NEMA 6-15 and NEMA 14-30 sockets that have similar features but are rated for 20 amps at 250 volts.

In the European Union, a common socket type is the CEE 7/16, which accepts Europlugs and older Israeli plugs rated at 16 A. It has a round socket face with lateral key pins and indentations that maintain polarity and prevent the insertion of plugs with different current ratings.

Some types of sockets, particularly older ones, do not meet technical standards for durability, plug retention force, or temperature rise of components. Safety advocates, electrical manufacturers, and the military recommend using only approved sockets for commercial use.

Distribution Panel Board

A distribution panel board is the heart of any electrical system. It controls the flow of electricity, protecting circuits with breakers or fuses in the event of overloading and offering an immediate shut-off point during emergencies. Whether your building is large or small, a well-placed and configured panel board is the key to efficiently powering your commercial space.

The panel board is usually a large, rectangular piece of metal that is recessed or mounted in a wall or other enclosure. Some are covered with a door that prevents the operator from touching live electrical parts, while others feature a dead front where the handles of the circuit breakers can only be opened when the enclosure is opened. It also has bus bars that carry current from incoming wires and connect to circuit breakers or fuses that distribute power to other parts of the system.

These circuits might include lights, outlets and power points for equipment and appliances in your building. Depending on the type of distribution board, it may have switches and meters for monitoring electrical usage. A good distribution system is essential in your facility because it allows you to safely extend power to equipment without overloading or exposing the wires to too much heat, which can cause fires and other safety hazards.

When choosing the correct main distribution panel, you must consider your electrical needs as well as any future plans for expansion and upgrading. It must also be installed correctly to ensure that your electrical infrastructure is safe and efficient for the long term.

There are many different types of panels, so it’s important to consult with a professional electrician before you install your own. Some are designed for residential use, while others are made for larger industrial applications. Some are called load centers and are similar to fuse boxes, while others are known as panelboards in North America and employ bolt-on breakers. Panelboards are often used in lighting systems and can contain between 6 and 24 ways for devices, with the top right breaker typically serving as the sub panel that feeds the other breakers with their specific voltage of electricity.

Electrical Raceways

Electrical raceways and conductors serve critical roles in commercial electrical systems by providing a physical pathway for electric wiring. Whether buried/underground or surface, they fully enclose wires and cables for protection against corrosion, water, and other physical threats. Raceway systems are also responsible for protecting the inner workings of a commercial wiring system from electric hazards and fire risks, when properly installed per National Electrical Code (NEC) standards.

There are several types of electrical raceways, but metal conduit and cable trays are commonly used in commercial electrical installations. Metal conduit is a type of pipe that acts as a protective conduit for electrical wiring, and it can be bent and fabricated into different shapes to fit the space where it will be installed. It’s a great option for running wires in high-traffic areas or where the wires might be exposed to outdoor elements.

In some applications, especially those in which the conduit must be directly buried underground or concrete encased, metal conduit is required by NEC regulations. For more information on this, read the NEC Articles about buried/underground metal conduit and direct-buried steel conduit.

Unlike metal conduit, cable raceways provide a surface-mounted pathway for wires that is essentially a surface-mounted duct solution. This is ideal for residential and commercial spaces, as it allows the wiring to be hidden behind a wall or recessed into the surface, making it more attractive and less of a safety hazard. Additionally, it can be a simpler installation process than installing metal conduit.

Both conduit and cable raceways come in a variety of materials, including aluminum and copper. It’s important to know which one you need for your application before making a purchase. Depending on the application and environment, there are also different sizes, finishes, and accessories available.

If you’re using a cable raceway, it may be helpful to use a wire cart when taking off the spools of black, white, and ground wire. This helps the wires to fall off in an organized manner and prevents them from getting tangled with each other or with the cable raceway. You can also use a wire stripper to strip the outer covering off the wires so you can easily identify which color goes where.

Tips For Window Cleaning

by Posted in Cleaning Services Tagged , , , , , ,

Window Cleaning Bradenton FL can be easy if you have the right tools. You can do it yourself or hire professionals.

Window Cleaning

Start with a bucket of clean, warm soapy water (washing-up liquid is best). Avoid sunshine exposure as the washing solution will dry quickly leaving streaks. Use a squeegee and a clean microfibre cloth to wipe and dry.

Window cleaners use cleaning solutions to remove stubborn dirt and grime, leaving windows smudge-free. They can also identify and fix problems like clogged channels or painted sashes that block the opening of windows. Some cleaning professionals also use stronger chemicals to remove stains or contaminants that are impossible to get rid of with water. These products, however, present a number of health and safety issues and must be handled with care.

Regular window cleaning helps protect your home or business investment by extending the life of your windows. It is particularly important if your property is located near a road or construction site where spray paint and salt can damage glass.

In addition to removing hard minerals from the surface of your glass, regular window washing can prevent the growth of mold and mildew on windowsills and frames. This can save you money on repair and replacement costs.

Depending on the type of windows you have and your climate, regular window cleaning may also help reduce energy costs. The sun’s rays produce free heat that can be lost through dirty windows. If these rays are blocked by dirt or other contaminants, you may have to crank up the thermostat to maintain a comfortable temperature. Regularly scheduled window cleaning helps eliminate this waste and allows the sun’s rays to fully heat your living space.

While some homeowners choose to clean their own windows, most prefer the professional touch of a reputable and reliable window cleaner. Window cleaning involves a great deal of physical labor, and the proper tools are essential for achieving a superior finish. A professional window cleaner is trained to assess the condition of your windows and will recommend the best course of action based on the results of his inspection.

Most commercial cleaning companies include the inside and outside of the windows in their service. Some may even bundle the cleaning of the sill and frame into the price. Cleaning the frames and sills is a bit more difficult than washing the glass, as there are often nooks and crannies that are hard to reach. The best way to clean them is by using a brush or a sponge with a scrubby side.

Squeegee

Using a squeegee is the best way to clean windows without leaving streaks or dirt behind. It is quick, efficient and economical compared to paper towels or rags. Moreover, it is better for the environment and the health of the window cleaner. It is also an effective tool for removing mold, mildew and dirt from surfaces.

Squeegees are flat rubber tools that scrape off excess liquid from a surface, such as glass, tile or concrete. They are ideal for residential and commercial windows, and can be bought in a variety of shapes and sizes. They are also available in a range of materials, such as metal and plastic. Some are shaped for household use, while others are designed for professional window cleaning.

Most squeegees have a handle and a rubber blade, and can be adjusted to different angles. They can be used with or without soap, and can be wiped clean to prevent build-up. Some are made from recycled materials, making them an environmentally friendly choice.

To use a squeegee, first wet the surface of the window with soapy water. Make sure to wipe down the frame and sill before beginning to avoid any dirt contaminating the cleaned glass. Then, position the squeegee at an angle and run it across the window. Be careful not to apply too much pressure, as this may cause scratches on the surface.

Once the squeegee has been used, wipe it down with a microfiber cloth to remove any remaining dirt and water. This will also help to keep the blade of the squeegee dry, and reduce the risk of bacteria growing on it. It is also a good idea to change the squeegee frequently, especially if it is exposed to sunlight.

Several factors can affect the success of squeegee cleaning, including how large the windows are and how close the window cleaner can get to them. In many cases, squeegee cleaning is not a suitable option for high rise buildings and large storefronts, where there are multiple sections of glass to clean. In such cases, a different method should be used, such as straight pulls or fanning.

Microfiber Cloth

For windows, glass tables and mirrors, microfiber cloths offer an eco-friendly solution without the need for cleaning chemicals. These durable, reusable cloths are highly absorbent and can quickly remove dirt, dust and smudges from glass surfaces for a streak-free shine. Microfiber also dries faster than cotton, so you can easily switch to a dry cloth without having to worry about transferring lint or dirt back onto the surface.

The best microfiber cloths have a split-fiber design that traps and captures microscopic particles like dust, dirt and fingerprints, leaving the surface shiny and streak-free. When choosing a microfiber cloth, make sure it has a soft, lint-free finish, and is ideally sized for the job. Using the wrong size or type of microfiber cloth can leave streaks, scratch the surface and cause damage to the windows and surrounding surfaces.

Several companies manufacture microfiber cloths specifically for cleaning windows and other glass surfaces. Some microfiber cloths have a special honeycomb texture that is particularly effective for wiping away water spots and smudges from mirrors and glass, while others are specialized for applying cleaning solutions or polishing surfaces. Some even come with a spray bottle that can be used to sanitize surfaces or add extra shine.

Many janitorial services have made the switch to environmentally-friendly microfiber cloths, trading in their paper towels for a more hygienic alternative. In addition to reducing waste, these cloths are also much more effective at removing stubborn stains and dirt from glass and chrome. The smooth texture of E-Cloth microfiber cloths is ideal for smooth glass and chrome, while more heavily textured “scrubby” microfiber cloths are suitable for more obstinate residues like stuck-on food particles and dried toothpaste.

Microfiber can be used on its own to clean windows, or in conjunction with a cleaning solution, but it’s important to test the microfiber before use for absorption and lint-free finish. To do so, simply dip a corner of the microfiber in water and observe how well it absorbs. An overly wet cloth will leave behind water stains on surfaces, so it’s important to wring out the cloth thoroughly before cleaning with it. Once the window is cleaned, a dry microfiber cloth can be used to buff the surface and remove any remaining moisture or streaks.

Newspaper

There are many different types of cleaning products on the market today, but some people still use a simple item like newspaper to clean their windows. While this may seem a bit old-fashioned, it is surprisingly effective and can save money over the cost of cleaning supplies.

One of the main benefits of using newspaper for window cleaning is its lint-free structure. Unlike paper towels, newspapers are more rigid and have dense fibers that do not separate to cause lint. Furthermore, the ink on the paper can act as a mild abrasive to help scrub away dirt and dust from the surface of the glass.

Another advantage of using newspaper for window cleaning is that it is reusable. Unlike cloths, which need to be washed after each use, newspaper can simply be discarded when it becomes too dirty to continue cleaning. This can save on laundry detergent, electricity and water. Lastly, newspaper is also cheap and easily available, making it a cost-effective alternative to expensive chemical cleaners.

When using newspaper for window cleaning, be sure to wear gloves to avoid getting the ink on your hands. It is also recommended to work on a cloudy day so that sunlight does not dry the solution too quickly and leave streaks on the glass. Furthermore, make sure to switch out the newspaper often so that it is always clean and free of lint and debris.

To begin cleaning your windows with newspaper, gather the following supplies: a bottle of white vinegar, water, a spray bottle, and a stack of newspapers (preferably older ones). Start by mixing equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle or bucket. Next, spray the window with the solution. After the solution has been sprayed, take two pieces of newspaper and begin wiping the surface of the glass. Be sure to change out the newspaper often, as it will become dirty and wet very quickly. After the windows have been wiped, use a squeegee to remove any remaining solution and ensure that there are no streaks.

Why Roofing Repair Is Important

by Posted in Roofing

Many roofs require repair following a severe storm. Even though hail damage may be easy to spot with dents in metal roofs, missing shingles can go unnoticed for years.

Different roofing materials are best suited for various climates and have different lifespans.

roofing

Between sudden and severe storms, prolonged cool weather, and the general wear and tear of age and use, each shingle takes a beating throughout its lifetime. Wind, hail, snow, sun exposure, and improper roof installation contribute to shingle damage, resulting in leaking or other problems with your home’s structure.

Replacing a shingle isn’t as simple as nailing another one on top of it. The replacement shingle must be the same size as the original or it won’t fit correctly and could cause other shingles to buckle or nails to pop. If you aren’t sure what size shingle your roof has, contact your local roofing contractor for advice.

A hammer, flat pry bar, utility knife, and replacement shingle are your essential tools for the job. Before you start pulling up the damaged shingle, slide your pry bar beneath the shingle directly above it to break its sealer strip connection and expose its nails. Then, slide the pry bar underneath the shingle you’re replacing and lift upward to loosen its nails.

Remove the damaged shingle and carefully slide a new one into place, using your fingers to ensure it fits snugly against the existing upper and lower undamaged shingles. Then, fasten it with its new nails using a caulking gun (about $4 per 10-oz. tube).

If your shingle is simply cracked, rather than torn completely, you may not need to replace it. If you do, apply a thick bead of roof sealant (about $4 per 10-oz. tube) under the crack. Press the shingle down and weigh it down with a brick while it dries for at least 24 hours.

You can camouflage your repair even further by collecting shingle granules from the gutter and liberally sprinkling them over the wet sealant to hide it. Or, you can look for a colored shingle sealant at your local hardware store to conceal the repair. Be sure to test the product on a small section of your roof before applying it to the entire area. This way, you can be certain it will adhere properly and work as intended.

Tiles are a popular choice for roofs because they are durable and attractive. They are available in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors and can fit any architectural style. They can be molded to mimic chipped stone, shingle-style slate, and even wood shakes. They are also environmentally friendly because they do not deplete natural resources and do not contain any preservatives. They are also long-lasting and can reduce energy costs.

Like any roofing material, tiles can experience damage. This can be from debris falling over the roof, wind damage, the stress of snow or water on the roof, or accidental damage caused by people stepping on or near the tiles. Usually, these damages are to individual tiles and can be repaired or replaced with little cost.

When repairing a tile roof, the first step is to locate the damaged area. This can be done by climbing a ladder to the roof and using a flat pry bar or hammer to lift up the edge of the affected tile. Once the damaged tile is removed, a new one can be placed in its place using the same technique. If the tiles have been cracked or broken, they can be filled with a roofing cement to repair them.

It is important to remember that a tile roof should be maintained regularly to avoid any damage to the structure. This maintenance includes regular inspections of the tiles, fasteners, and sealant. It also includes cleaning to remove stains, mold, and mildew. It is recommended that homeowners hire a professional to perform these services to ensure they are safe and meet building codes.

If you’re looking to install a tile roof, it is important that you research the different options available and consider the benefits of each. Then, you can choose the best option for your home and budget. Be sure to take the time to learn how to properly install a tile roof so that you don’t end up with any problems down the road. In addition, make sure to wear safety equipment when working on the roof, and always be careful when using tools or climbing a ladder.

Metal roofs are becoming increasingly common in residential homes, offering a gunmetal chic that is both stylish and durable. However, they are not cheap and require specialty contractors to put on and repair them. Getting a metal roof repaired quickly can save you money by preventing water damage and other problems down the line.

A metal roof can develop leaks if the seams and fasteners are not properly sealed. Roofing contractors apply a high-temperature, waterproofing underlayment to the entire roof deck and seal around each fastener penetrating the surface of the roof. In addition, a slip sheet, typically rosin paper, is laid between the metal and the underlayment to allow it to expand and contract without damaging the underlayment.

Oil canning is a waviness that appears in the edges of metal roof sheets. It is caused by a loss of elasticity, stress, and rapid temperature changes. Roofing contractors can address this issue by replacing the affected sections of the metal roof.

In addition to the seams and fasteners, metal roofs have flashing, which is a material that diverts water away from certain areas of the roof. It is commonly used around vents, chimneys, valleys, and areas near gutters. Flashing can become damaged by rust, corrosion, or falling objects. Roofing contractors can replace and seal flashing to prevent water leaks.

When repairing holes in metal roofs, it is important that the patching material match the color and texture of the existing metal. Otherwise, it may cause the patched area to experience different rates of expansion and contraction than the surrounding roof. This can lead to premature failure of the patch.

Screws and fasteners that have backed out of their seated positions on the roof are a major source of leaks in metal roofs. This occurs for a variety of reasons including wind uplift, vibration of the metal panels, and freeze-thaw cycles. Roofing contractors can restore the seated position of these fasteners by drilling out the old fastener and inserting a new one with a matching head.

If your roof is made from wood, it is important to keep up with its maintenance. If you do not, rot and other damage can occur. It is also important to keep in mind that wood can rot more quickly than other types of roofing materials, as it provides the perfect environment for fungal spores to thrive. Once spores grow in the moist wood, they will digest it and begin to cause other problems for your roof. The best way to avoid this is by having a professional inspect your roof regularly and getting any issues addressed as soon as possible.

If the wood in your roof is rotting, you may need to consider reroofing. This is a process where the existing roof decking is removed and replaced. This is the best option for addressing a roof that has serious rot and can prevent future leaks.

However, if you do not want to go through the process of a full roof replacement, there are still ways to fix the problem. The most common method is to replace the rotting boards and then use a sealant to ensure that water will not be able to seep into the roof deck.

Another option is to get into the attic and have a look at the roof decking from underneath. If there are any areas of discoloration or water marks, this is a good sign that the wood is rotted. You can then pry up shingles in the affected area, working your way around the entire roof.

You can ask your roofing contractor for more information about the type of wood they plan to use in your roof. If they are reluctant to provide this or if they are charging for a roof replacement without providing a breakdown of the individual components, it is best to walk away.

Roofing Materials to Consider When Re-Roofing Your Home

by Posted in Roofing Tagged , , , , , , ,

Re-roofing is one of the best ways to give your home a facelift and can dramatically alter its overall appearance. Choosing Roofing Contractors Lancaster PA is critical in this project because it will impact your roof’s performance and resale value. Asphalt shingles are available in various rich architectural styles, including those that mimic the look of slate and cedar shakes. They perform well in cold climates.

roof

Clay tile roofing is a popular option for homeowners looking to add beauty and charm to their homes. They are durable and come in a wide variety of shapes, styles, colors, and sizes. Typically, they are associated with Mediterranean and Spanish-style homes, but can be found in many other architectural styles. They are also a great choice for areas that experience frequent rains, as they can be effective at keeping the water out.

These tiles can be unglazed, like terra cotta, or factory-fired with a light or cool color glaze. Whether unglazed or glazed, they are extremely durable and have a lifespan of up to 150 years. Their durability and longevity is due in part to their thick construction and clay composition. They are also an effective insulator, which helps to regulate the interior temperature and can reduce energy costs.

Unlike asphalt shingles, which rely on an underlayment to provide waterproofing, all tile roofs are fully waterproofed by the tiles themselves. That said, a high-quality underlayment is still required to provide maximum performance. For tile roofs, a layer of Type II No. 30 or No. 43 felt is recommended. This underlayment should extend up and over the hips and ridges, covering all edges of the tiles and ending at least 6 inches down the side of each tile.

In addition to the underlayment, a clay tile roof requires a solid roof deck or suitable strapping to support it. It should be inspected regularly for signs of leakage or damage, and any issues must be addressed promptly.

Another common concern is debris accumulation. It is important to keep the debris from building up on your roof and blocking the gutters. Taking steps to limit the build-up of debris, such as cleaning the gutters on a regular basis and limiting the amount of debris that lands in the attic, can help prolong the life of your roof.

While clay tile is an attractive and long-lasting roof material, it can be quite heavy. As a result, it is important to have your home’shome’s structure assessed by an engineer to ensure that the structure can support the weight of a clay tile roof.

Asphalt shingles are one of the most popular roofing materials, and for good reason. They offer curb appeal, durability and energy-efficiency. Plus, they’re they’re relatively inexpensive compared to other options like tile roofs and are easy to install for roofing contractors.

Asphalt roofing shingles come in a variety of colors and styles, and you can even choose a premium shingle that mimics the look of cedar shake or slate tiles. Whether you’reyou’re choosing 3-tab shingles, architectural shingles or dimensional shingles, you’llyou’ll find that the materials are built to last and resist damage from extreme weather conditions.

Most shingles are constructed of a base material such as organic felt, fiberglass or a composite blend. Then they are topped with a layer of asphalt and various colored ceramic granules that protect against UV rays. Strips or spots of a thermoplastic adhesive are applied to the underside of most shingles, which helps to bond them together and create a water-tight seal on your roof.

When it comes to sturdiness, many shingles are impact rated, which means that they can withstand a high amount of force before a shingle is likely to fly off or break. In addition, asphalt shingles are good insulators and help reduce air conditioning costs in hot climates by reflecting solar heat instead of absorbing it.

Before you choose an asphalt shingle, be sure to look for the type of quality control standards that are adhered to by the manufacturer. For example, the organic felt used in organic shingles is monitored for moisture content and absorbency. Fiberglass mats are inspected for proper weight and thickness, while the application of mineral coatings is carefully regulated for consistency and uniformity.

Some asphalt shingles may also qualify as performance shingles. These shingles are designed to provide specific benefits such as wind resistance or hail resistance, and can often be found with warranties that span the lifetime of the roof. They’reThey’re a great choice if you live in an area that sees severe storms or frequent hailstorms. If you’re you’re not sure, ask your roofing contractor about the performance shingles that are available for your home.

Metal roof panels are durable and long-lasting, and can be customized to match a building’sbuilding’s architectural style. They also help to make a structure more energy-efficient. These panels are manufactured in a variety of materials, including aluminum, steel and copper. They can be shaped to resemble traditional shingles or designed to create a more modern look.

Stainless steel is a premium roofing material that that’s highly durable and resists corrosion. It’sIt’s also available in a wide range of finish options, from a subtle gray to a polished shine that’sthat’s comparable to a mirror. For these reasons, stainless steel is a popular choice for industrial buildings, commercial structures and skyscrapers.

Another common type of metal roofing is corrugated galvanized steel. It is roll-formed from a wrought iron or galvanized sheet and coated in zinc, aluminum, silicon or other material to improve its strength, impermeability and durability. Some manufacturers offer galvalume, a combination of aluminum and zinc with a paint finish to resist corrosion even better.

Corrugated metal roofs may be fastened to the deck of a structure using clips or nailing, depending on the manufacturer’smanufacturer’s design. Some panels are also able to be curved, which is ideal for dormers and other accent pieces on a roof. When the panels are secured, a ridge cap and a gutter are usually installed to protect against water damage and prevent snow buildup.

Some homeowners opt to install a standing seam metal roof, which is assembled by welding or riveting the panels together. These roofs are able to stand up to intense weather conditions, especially those in coastal areas that can experience heavy rainfall and high winds.

Other roofing systems include the “”tin roof”” or “”copper roof.”” While these are less durable than other types of metal roofing, they are a popular choice for older homes and structures that need an authentic historic appearance. Copper is also a beautiful roofing material that has become more popular for its aesthetic appeal as well as the greenish patina it develops as it ages.

In general, metal roofing can last up to 30 years or more with proper maintenance and care. However, the panels can rust or get damaged by hailstorms. While pea-sized or even dime-sized hail is generally not an issue for a metal roof, larger ice and debris can damage or dent it. That’sThat’s why it’sit’s important to check your homeowner’shomeowner’s insurance policy to see if it covers such storm damage.

A long time industry goal has been to create a roof replacement product that combines the authentic natural appearance of hand split cedar shakes with a variety of homeowner benefits such as fire ratings, impact resistance and low maintenance. Until now, other roofing products such as asphalt shingles, concrete tile and clay tiles have been unable to provide the same level of performance. But new technology has led to the development of a revolutionary polymer composite roofing solution that is virtually indistinguishable from cedar shakes.

The secret behind the success of a composite shake is in how the material is manufactured. Advanced manufacturing processes take a computerized 3D image of the natural product and produce exact molds in which liquid polymers are cast and set. The resulting shingle is an exact replica of the original with minute details like wood grain patterns and texture preserved. The finished product is so close in appearance that even professionals may have trouble telling the difference from a few feet away.

Unlike traditional shingle materials, composite shakes are modeled after slate and real cedar shakes. They are available in a wide variety of widths and colors, so homeowners can create a customized look for their home. Composite shingles also feature fade-resistance, which will keep them looking their best longer than organic shingle roofing.

Impact resistance and durability are other important characteristics of composite shakes. They can withstand much more significant impact than stone slate, clay tile and wood shake/shingle roofs, which is critical in areas prone to hail storms. Many composite manufacturers offer Class 4 hail damage warranties.

Composites are also stronger than organic materials and can resist the effects of climate changes such as heavy snow, rain, wind, heat and humidity. They are also resistant to the freeze-thaw cycle that can crack and dislodge organic materials.

Composites are also environmentally friendly, using recycled plastics in their manufacturing process and being able to be recycled once they’re-they’re no longer needed on a roof. In addition, some polymer roofing products are Energy Star rated and can lower rooftop temperatures to save on cooling costs.