Everything You Need to Know About Solar Shingles

Solar shingles remain one of the most innovative ways to help power your home. These shingles are specially designed to enable you to harness the sun’s power, instantly reducing the energy you use. Learning more about this product is essential to ensure it’s the right one for your family. Let’s go over everything you need to know.

Roofing Material

Traditional solar panels were designed to be mounted on your existing roofing material. These shingles are packed with solar cells to help you utilize solar energy while functioning as regular shingles. They help protect your home just like asphalt shingles do. They’re also lightweight and durable, like other roofing materials.

Aesthetic Appeal

Shingles offer more aesthetic appeal compared to other solar options, like large solar panels. They blend seamlessly with your home, instantly making it look better than large solar panels posted in the yard. This can enhance curb appeal, making it an excellent idea for homeowners who want their homes to be more stunning.

Durable Materials

Shingles are made to be durable. The creators of these shingles kept in mind how tough other roofing materials are and incorporated that same level of sturdiness into these. Shingles can easily withstand rain and harsh weather conditions.

Space Saving

Large solar panels can help you reduce energy efficiency, but several conditions must be met to use them. Panels on the roof must have ample room and are often heavier than shingles. These panels may not be an option for homeowners who have a limited amount of space in their yards. Solar shingles bring the possibility of using solar power to every homeowner.

Energy Efficient

Solar products like shingles are connected to the home via batteries. The solar energy collected is stored in a battery and later used by appliances and other things that use electricity in the house. This can help you save hundreds of dollars on your energy bills yearly, in our professional experience. Most solar products eventually pay for themselves, thanks to the massive savings.

Professional installation is paramount to ensuring the shingles blend seamlessly with your roof. Our experienced team will work with you to ensure your shingles are in the optimal place to collect solar energy. According to Business Wire, the solar roofing industry is expected to reach a value of $965 million by 2025, making it a growing trend. Contact Brinkmann Quality Roofing Services today to learn more. We look forward to working with you.

4 Questions to Ask Your Metal Roofing Contractors

Are you ready to give your home an upgrade that it could benefit from for several decades If so, you may want to consider metal roofing. While there are many roofing materials to consider, metal is increasing in popularity. If you’re curious about what this type of roofing can do for you, here are some questions to ask metal roofing contractors before you hire them for installation.

1. What’s the Cost of the Project?

Metal roofing may have a greater upfront cost than other roofing like asphalt shingles. However, the upfront investment is worth it due to its durability and other benefits. Plus, the type of metal used may also affect the final pricing. Don’t be afraid to ask for a written estimate, and you can always check with a few different roofing contractors to compare their pricing.

2. What’s the Advantage of This Roofing Type Over Others?

There are many reasons to consider various roofing materials, but when you choose metal, you can expect a roof that might outlast you. According to State Farm, metal roofing has a typical lifespan of 40 to 70 years. Installation can also protect your home from leaks compared to other materials since it has few seams. If you live in a hot climate, metal is great at reflecting heat, so you can keep your home cool and save on HVAC costs.

3. How Long Will Installation Take?

Metal roofing contractors will take longer to install a roof compared to an asphalt roofer. A metal roof involves a more intricate process. It’s a more specialized installation, as the metal has to be prefabricated beforehand. However, it’ll be worth it in the end!

4. What Type of Metal Is Available?

With metal, you have a variety of metals and styles to consider. You can choose from copper, zinc, steel, galvanized steel, and aluminum. Leave it to metal roofing contractors to advise you on which metal might be ideal for your preferred aesthetic.

A metal roof can bring high value to your home. In addition to increased aesthetics and curb appeal, you can save money, increase your home value, and have a durable roof for years to come. Contact our team at Brinkmann Quality Roofing Services today to schedule an appointment!

5 Signs It’s Time to Get a New Metal Roof

A metal roof is a fantastic investment for any homeowner. Metal roofing is aesthetically appealing and well-known for its superior durability. According to State Farm, metal roofing usually lasts 40–70 years. Throughout these years, it’s important to look for signs that it’s time to call a metal roofing contractor. Let’s take a look at a few different signs to look for.

1. You See Serious Leaking

It’s common to see a leak here and there if the seams need to be adequately sealed or the seal wears out. However, if you notice one leak after another, then it may be time for a new metal roof. A professional can evaluate your roof to determine if it’s time for a replacement or a small repair.

2. You See Corrosion or Rust

Metal roofs receive a special coating to help prevent rust. However, they may not be ultimately able to resist corrosion. If homeowners don’t follow a regular maintenance schedule to re-coat their roof, then it’s likely to rust long before it’s been forty years. Contact a professional at the first sign of rust to determine if you need a new metal roof.

3. You See Significant Damage

Metal roofs are durable, but they can still experience damage. It’s common to see a metal roof damaged from a hail storm or large branches falling on the roof. These can both cause dents in the metal. Minor dents are usually not a problem. Large dents can make your roof less effective, and you’ll probably need to discuss a replacement with metal roofing contractors.

4. You Remember Your Roof’s Age

As previously mentioned, the typical metal roof will last at least 40 years. It’s essential to schedule annual or biannual inspections once your roof hits this age limit. It would be best to start planning for a replacement soon in case your roof shows signs you need a new one. Usually, homeowners opt to have a new roof installed by the time their roof reaches 50 years old, so they don’t have to deal with the inconvenience of their roof failing.

5. You See Sagging

A sagging roof indicates that there is severe structural damage. The support beams may have been damaged during a storm or if something heavy fell on your roof. This requires immediate attention from metal roofing contractors. Your roof may cave in if the problem is not repaired promptly.

Your metal roof is bound to need replacing eventually. Homeowners who notice these signs should contact local metal roofing contractors for a thorough inspection. Give us a call at Brinkmann Quality Roofing Services to schedule an appointment today!

Can you clean my roof?

Yes, we are the authorized dealer for Roof Shampoo for the Fort Bend and Galveston counties. Our proprietary roof shampoo solution is a non-bleach formula that is applied to the roof to remove the Blue/Green algae that causes black streaks that hide the original color of your roof. We will then softly rinse the solution from your roof and return your roof to its original color. Our product and process is safe for your surrounding shrubbery. Please all us today to get on schedule to get your roof cleaned without any pressure washing of your roof.

What Makes Metal Such a Great Roofing Material?

Traditionally, metal roofing has been used for commercial buildings or warehouses. However, over the last decade, it has been surging in popularity with homeowners. According to Allied Market Research, as of 2020, the metal roofing market had a value of $23.8 billion. By 2030, this number is expected to increase to $33.5 billion. If you’re in the market for a new roof, read along as a metal roofing contractor explains some of the reasons why metal is such a great roofing material.

It Can Last a Long Time

Metal roofing is extremely durable and long-lasting. When properly cared for, in our experience, it can last upwards of 50 years. Some metal roofs will last your entire lifetime. This is beneficial because replacing a roof is a huge and costly project. Minimizing the number of times you have to do this in your lifetime is ideal for many homeowners.

It Can Be Recycled and Made From Recycled Materials

Are you interested in minimizing your impact on the environment? Metal roofing can be made from recycled metal. Once a metal roofing contractor informs you that your metal roof is at the end of its lifespan, it can be removed and recycled again. Choosing metal for your roof helps to keep roofing materials out of crowded landfills.

You Can Customize It

Metal roofing is one of the most customized roofing materials currently on the market. You can purchase metal panels, metal sheets, metal shingles, or metal tiles. The metal can be powder-coated or painted in a wide array of colors. It can be insulated with spray foam, or it can be coated using specialized coating products. Your metal roofing contractor can help you customize a metal roof so that it meets the needs of your household based on your climate and aesthetic goals.

Metal roofing has many unique benefits that set it apart from other roofing materials currently on the market. If you’re in need of a new roof and want to learn more about metal roofing, a metal roofing contractor can answer any questions you may have. Reach out to our team at Brinkmann Quality Roofing Services and let us help you decide if metal may be the right option for your new roof.

The Top 3 Reasons to Upgrade to Solar Roofing

Whether you’re looking to protect the environment or to improve your personal financial situation, investing in solar roofing can be a great choice. Given the many benefits, it should come as no surprise that the solar roofing product market is projected to reach roughly $965 million in value by 2025 according to Business Wire. Let’s take a look at some of the best reasons for installing solar power and roofing solutions.

1. You Can Reduce Utility Bills

The potential to save when it comes to utility bills is one of the most obvious benefits of installing solar roofing. However, when you dig into the details, the case for solar power can be better than many people realize. For example, utility bills have been relatively predictable over the last several years. Global energy markets have been stable, and demand in some markets has peaked. However, economic and political shocks could lead to sharp increases in electricity and other utilities. Solar power could not only save money but can also reduce the risk of shocks. Having your shingles themselves collect energy is one of the most structurally efficient ways to power your property.

2. You May Qualify for Tax Rebates and Other Programs

Depending on where you live, there could be a monetary incentive for investing in solar roofing. As such, it’s smart to check if there are any government incentives, such as tax rebates, for installing solar roofing in your area. If so, this could save you a lot of money or provide other benefits. Besides checking with the federal and state governments, be sure to check with local offices to see if they’re offering incentives or other programs. It never hurts to ask, after all.

3. It’ll Improve Your Home’s Value

The many benefits of solar roofing can increase the value of your home or other property. Thus, when it comes time to sell, you may secure a higher selling price. In some cases, between increased property values and savings, solar power and roofing solutions can pretty much pay for themselves. Such value is hard to look past! Even if you don’t plan to leave, you’ll be able to enjoy the boost in curb appeal.

If you’re considering solar roofing for your property in the Friendswood, TX area, we can help! Give our team at Brinkmann Quality Roofing Services a call today to learn more about our services. We offer free consultations, so don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions you have.

Four Ways to Prevent a House Fire!

How do House Fires Happen?

House Fires can happen all the time. While at any given moment any number of things can spontaneously combust, often it is due to the neglect of the homeowner. The most common times for house fires to occur are when the owner of the house is away in which case few measures can adequately prevent a fire from spreading. Additionally, when a fire happens within the home, the owner will often panic and either aid in the spread or at least poorly inhibit the transit of the fire. If you want to learn more about how to prevent a house fire, this is the guide for you!

How do you Prevent a House Fire?

Smoke Detectors – This is a necessity for every home in America. Smoke Detectors will know when smoke hits them and determine that there is a fire in the room. These detectors will often have external switches that alert nearby fire departments.

Emergency Gas Shut Off – A helpful tool that is often installed as a surplus for conventional gas ovens are emergency shutoffs. When there is a detection of excess gas in an area, this will switch off all the gas in a room and prevent the possible spread of deadly or flammable gas.

Sprinklers – Sprinkler systems might seem like they only belong in chemical labs and schools, but more people are installing sprinkler systems in their homes as a preventative measure of long-term fire damage.

Fire Extinguishers – Fire Extinguishers are the most common fire suppressant device in the market. From homes and businesses to cars and busses, everyone has fire extinguishers because they are so easy to operate. If you would like to know more about how to use a fire extinguisher, click here to read our blog on it!

BRINKMANN INC

Brinkmann Quality Roofings has always remained loyal to the trade of Roofing. For the last thirty years, our roofing services have helped countless businesses and residences in the state of Texas. Whether it’s learning how to clean gutters or learning our prices, if you would like to know more about our services or products available, give us a call today at 281-480-7663

5 Steps for Maintaining Your Roof!

Why should I maintain my Roof?

Maintaining your roof is incredibly important. Not just for the integrity of your roof but the entirety of your home as well. Maintaining your roof is vital for appearances, ensuring it is structurally sound and preventing possible problems.

While many people may be unfamiliar with roof maintenance, the process can be very easy when you understand the fundamental steps. To help with this, we’ve created our five-step program for roof maintenance that will help you know what to look for and how often you should try to maintain your roof.

The Five Steps for Roof Maintenance

Look and See – The first step you should take in roof maintenance is performing a look and see. The easiest way to check your roof everyday is to look at your roof for a few minutes. Are there any sags, debris, or noticeable problems with the roof?

Check the Gutters for Debris – Next you want to check the gutter for clutter or debris. If there are leaves or rocks or branches in the gutter, they can cause gutter problems which directly affect the lining of your roof.

Inspect Openings – No matter what kind of roof you have, there will always be a possibility of openings. Inspect transitions, elevation changes, and around roof penetrations for gaps in excess of 1/4″.

Check the integrity of the Materials – While you’re checking for openings, also check the integrity of the materials. Roofing products will deteriorate over time through natural ageing process. Look for excessive granule loss, blisters, or physical damage to the roofing material. It is cheaper to deal with the problem before it shows up on the interior.

Additions and Routine – Finally you want to check the roofing products around any additions or changes you made to your home. Often times general remodeling contractors are not necessarily capable of performing roofing work. Make looking at your roof part of your home maintenance routine.

Brinkmann

Brinkmann Quality Roofing has always remained loyal to the trade of Roofing. For over two generations our roofing services have helped countless businesses and residences in the Houston and surround area. Whether it’s learning how to properly clean gutters or want to explore the cost of a new roof give us a call today at 281-480-7663

Low Slope Roofs – Pros and Cons

What are Low Slope Roofs?

A roof is considered low slope if it has an angle of fewer than 18 degrees. This means that the roof can be flatter than a roof with a higher slope.

What are the Benefits?

Low Slope Roofs have a few benefits specifically in Houston:

Flatter means easier for Solar Panels – Many people in the Houston Metropolitan area are investing in Solar Panels and a Low slope roof means that each panel has the potential to take in more sunlight than if the slope was higher.

Flatter means water Rolls off Easier – Rain will fall off the roof faster, which can be good regarding impact reduction and sound reduction.

Flatter means less likely to receive wind damage – you are less likely to have shingles torn off your roof during a low slope roof because they are built closer to the grain.

What are the Negatives?

Flatter means more impact from Snow – While it doesn’t impact many residents directly. When there is snow, it can cling much more and stay on the roof for longer. This can cause increased strain when otherwise it would be more prone to falling off.

Flatter means Damage is Harder – If something were to damage your roof, the impact would spread out to other parts of the roof faster than if it were in a higher slope roof. This is due to the way the roof is constructed and dissipates damage. When something breaks through, it breaks hard.

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How to Clean your Gutters and Downspouts

Why you should clean your Gutters

Your gutters are an important part of your roof. Instead of having all of the runoff and debris from your roof falling carelessly to the ground, the gutters are there to keep them out of your way. However, if the debris will stay on the gutters and downspouts, then it could potentially cause damage to the structure of your house. To avoid this, it’s important that you learn how to clean your gutters and downspouts!

How to Clean the Gutters

Inspect The Gutters Visually – The first step you should take is to inspect the gutters visually. If you see any large pieces that are stuck in there, take a gloved hand and pull it out manually. Keeping a trash bag with you will make it much easier to dispose of the debris that remains in the gutter.

Vacuum or Blowers on the Gutters – The best way to get rid of the excess debris is to take a shop vac or a vacuum blower and withdraw the debris. While there are dirt and small rocks and small leaves that would simply take too much time to do by man.

De-Clog the Downspout – The downspout is arguably the most difficult part. Since you have to manually inspect all of the spouts to see if there is debris within. A great way to do this is pump water through and pull apart joints of the downspout for easier pressure.

Composition Shingles

Tile/Slate

Metal

Flat/TPO

Repair & Maint.

Siding

Solar Shingles Houston

Gutters

Radiant Barrier