Clay roof tiles are one of the best roofing materials for many reasons. They look great, don’t need much maintenance, are highly resistant to the harsh weather and suitable in just about any climate.

Hiring a professional for Bay Area roofing repair is best if you intend to keep your investment for as long as possible. Here’s how you can maintain your clay tile roof.

Check For Breaks Or Cracks

Every year, do a visual inspection on the state of your clay roof. While it may make sense to actually walk on the roof, it will be better to bring along a binocular and a ladder. Check for leaks, cracks or broken tiles. When you do, get a Bay Area roofing contractor to have it repaired as soon as possible. It’s not advisable to walk on the clay tiles as you could risk cracking or damaging them even further.

Cleaning Your Clay Roof Tiles

A power washer makes cleaning easier and it makes for good-looking clay tiles that stand the test of time. A power washer is a specialized equipment that can churn out water at a high pressure and spray it out with a nozzle. The pressurized water quickly clears away stuck dirt, dust and debris off your clay tile roofing.

One trick to doing power washing right is to keep the nozzle aimed at a safe distance from the tiles. Use a mild dish detergent and warm water to take out the algae, then apply sealant to prevent molds and algae from returning.

Safety First

Should you decide to clean the tile roof yourself, take precautionary measures. Ask the help of a friend who can keep an eye on you while you do the power washing. Clay tiles can get really slippery when they’re wet, and the risk of slipping and falling will be greater. Consider hiring a professional Bay Area roofing contractor who’s experienced at power washing clay tiles if you’re not 100% confident.

Benefits Of Having Clay Roof Tiles

Better Energy Savings

Bay Area homeowners enjoy a lower energy bill because of clay’s excellent roofing properties. During warm, sunny days, the clay tiles attract heat and keeps your home cooler without needing to turn on the AC, resulting in a lower power bill.

Highly Durable

The firing process makes clay material very durable against the weather and outdoor elements. Plus, clay tiles keep their natural color for a long time and they do not break and chip easily under rain or heat.

Contact Our East Bay Roofing Contractors for Help

It’s always best to call in the pros when dealing with clay tile roofing and repairs. Learn more about Century Roof Tile, a leading Bay Area roofing company, by browsing our website and testimonials. For a roof inspection, maintenance, solar consultation or installation, get in touch with us via our online contact form or by phone at 1-888-233-7548.

Ask Yourself These Questions Before Installing Solar Roofing

1. How Much Energy Do You Need?

Take a quick assessment of how much electricity your household needs before buying solar panels. How many kilowatts are you consuming each month? Multiply that number by 25 and run it by your Bay Area solar company to get an idea of how large your new solar system will be.

2. Are You Ready For Solar Roofing Installations?

Or, can you handle the upfront costs? Every year solar panels are getting more cost-effective, dropping more than 60 percent since 2011. Aside from knowing which panels are suited for you and which ones are overpriced, you’ll also need to prepare upfront money (around $15,000 upwards) for solar solutions, including subsidiaries, local tax credits and federal credits.

3. Are You Staying Long?

Solar roofing installations typically pay for themselves over a period of 5 to 6 years. While you take advantage of lower electricity bills immediately, the cost of installation is quite high and won’t be recouped until that time. Solar panels is a good solution if you intend to stay in your current residence for the long term, and not so much if you’re planning on moving or relocating in the near future.

4. Can Your Roof Hold The Solar Panels?

The beauty of solar panels is that they can be installed on almost any roof type; the only difference is the speed of installation and how soon you can use it once it’s there. For example, homes that have regular wood shingles or Spanish tiles may need to hire a East Bay roofing contractor who knows how to work it in.

5. Do You Have The Right Permits?

It’s wise to prepare in advance for your solar panels, and that includes securing the necessary permits for it. Get a building permit at the local level and make sure you follow the rules that pertain to your specific municipality.

6. Where Will The Panels Be Located?

The best location for solar panels is where they can get the most sunlight in a day. Obstructions such as tall trees and nearby buildings will significantly affect where your solar panels will be placed. Moreover, there are different types of solar panels, each with their own unique reactions to light and dark conditions.

7. Do You Have The Time?

Installing an adequate solar panel system will take some time. Wiring and panel placement can take a few days, but the solar project may take a few months starting from signing the contract up to the actual installation process.

8. Do You Have The Right Bay Area Solar Contractor?

Choose a solar roofing company who’s bonded, licensed, insured and has a strong warranty. The reviews and feedback from previous clients should be positive overall. These things can be found online or by asking the contractor for recent references.

Hire a Qualified Bay Area Solar Roofing Installer

Learn more about Century Roof Tile by checking out our website and testimonials. For a roof inspection, maintenance, solar consultation or installation, get in touch with us via our online contact form or by phone at 1-888-233-7548.

Deciding on a color for your new roof involves taking things into consideration that go beyond looks. In addition to boosting the aesthetic appeal of your home, the color will also determine the average lifespan of your roof to a certain extent. Regardless of the considerations, it easy to see why picking a new roof color can be so exciting. After all, you are giving your house a new look. So without further ado, let us give you some points to keep in mind before you get in touch with Bay Area roofing contractors for a re-roofing.

1. The climate in your area

First thing’s first – you have to make sure that the roof color adds to your comfort. Did you know the shingle colors can influence the attic temperature by as much as 40 degrees! Yes, it is true. Whereas light shingles keep sunlight away, dark shingles absorb light and keep the home warm. So, you can probably tell which color type would be suitable for what climate.

2. Overall architecture

When it comes to matching the color with architecture, we’d advise you to stick to the tried and tested formulas. Keep classic color palettes for traditional architectural homes, and contemporary for the opposite. Also, bear in mind that dark colors tend to make homes look smaller while light colors make it look bigger.

Determining your home’s architectural style and the appropriate roof color that should go with it is not easy. In that case, don’t hesitate to consult with a Bay Area roofing company for advice.

3. Coordinate with shingle colors

This one’s a no-brainer here – the color of your shingles should obviously match with colors found in other parts like wooden siding, bricks, stone, trim or stucco of your house. Say for example; a dark grey roof will match better with a light grey or blue house while a brown or tan colored home will better accommodate brown or cream color shingles.

4. Rules of your neighborhood

Before getting the roof painted, make sure that the color doesn’t conflict with the rules set by the homeowner’s association and such. Just out of courtesy, it would also be good if your roof color is not 100% identical to your neighbor’s.

5. Your favorite house features

Stone walls, wraparound windows, bay windows, and other features and a homeowner’s favorite parts also set the tone for color. Always go for complementary colors to highlight these elements – or don’t, if you want to go discrete.

Contact Century Roof Tile for Bay Area Roofing Services

If you’ve chosen a roof color and you think it’s time for a new roof, contact our team today! For a roof inspection and consultation, get in touch with our East Bay roofing company, Century Roof Tile, via our online contact form or by phone at 1-888-233-7548.

Thinking of putting in solar roofing for your next home improvement project?

Most Bay Area roofing contractors recommend solar shingles instead of traditional solar tiles to achieve a more energy-efficient home. Solar tiles are standalone, which means you can use it as the primary roofing material.

Solar Power Distribution of Solar Tiles

Solar tiles are wired to provide electricity for both off and on-grid systems. Having a solar panel system on an on-grid system allows you to power up homes and commercial establishments. Excess electricity generated from these tiles may be sold to the utility company for a rebate. Off-grid solar systems are more for back-ups in cases of power outages. They can also store energy for future use. Keep in mind that an off-grid system can be more expensive than an on-grid system.

All solar-powered systems make use of a power inverter that converts sun energy to usable electricity. A power inverter typically converts DC electricity into AC electricity for home use. Though solar roofing installation can be costly, the investment is recouped over time. They usually pay for themselves after several years of electricity production.

Solar Tile Pros

Solar roofing shingles are more aesthetically pleasing than their traditional counterparts. Home designers will appreciate the fact that this material enhances your home’s exterior design. You can choose from different sizes or models- from systems that make use of thin films to solid shingle-size tiles that look like any other traditional shingle.

You may opt for a more durable, waterproof solar tile during the time of installation. Bay Area solar roofing contractors will have an easier time during installation- they can just staple the tile directly to the roof. Furthermore, you may be qualified to get tax incentives if you go solar.

Solar tiles are more effective than traditional panels overall. Each shingle can generate up to 17 watts of electricity! Perhaps the most notable benefit of having solar tile roofing is that you won’t have to make room for large flat surfaces to install traditional solar panel systems.

Additionally, solar energy roofing can be constructed in a way that makes them highly resistant against strong winds.

Solar Tile Cons

• Initial installation costs can be steep.
• The roof has to have the right angle to efficiently catch solar energy. Also, the surface area must be sufficient to reliably power your property.
• On-grid systems will have no energy storage, which means you can’t use solar electricity during storms or in the night time.

Solar Energy Roofing in the Bay Area

Century Roof Tile is the go-to Bay Area roofing contractor for solar roofing installations, gutters, re-roofing and roof repair contact Century Roof Tile. At your earliest convenience, call (888) 233-7548 or contact us online for further assistance.

One of the most common questions we get as a Bay Area roofing contractor is, “Do I need a new roof if I want to install solar panels?”.

Some residents and business owners understandably worry about the roof’s integrity and size before considering Bay Area solar roofing installations:

•  “Will my current roof be enough to accommodate an array of solar panels?”
• “Will solar roofing cause leaks or compromise the overall structure of my roof?”
• “Is my roof large enough for a solar panel installation?”
• “Is my roof positioned to get the most sunlight?”

These are all valid concerns, but keep in mind that solar panel systems can be set up elsewhere, too, not just your roof.

It’s true that a solar company will first look at your roof as a viable platform for the solar panel installation, but there are other possible locations for it as well. Detached garages, poles, ground mounts and shade awnings are all good examples of solar panel spots. In some instances, your Bay Area roofing contractor may even install your solar panels on the ground because the roof is covered with shading. It’s all about finding the optimal location to best suit your needs.

Assessing Your Roof’s Condition for Solar Panels

If your roofing contractor deems that your roof is in a poor condition, then it would be a wise idea to have them replaced before installing the solar panel system. This will save you money and unnecessary headaches in the long run because you won’t have to re-install the solar panels when time comes and you need to replace the roof. Doing so will require additional solar panel removal and re-installation fees.

A good licensed roofing contractor can determine the condition of your roof and recommend the best course of action before installing solar roofing. Solar panels actually help you get more out of your new roof as it blocks out the harmful UV rays and protects it from hail, snow, and rain. Plus, it keeps the heat out from your home during the hot summer months!

The good news is that solar panels may be installed on almost all kinds of roofs, whether tile or composite. Shingle roofs and single plane roofs are the easiest ones to work with when installing new solar panels.

Contact the Leading Bay Area Solar Roofing Company

Checking to see if your current roof’s condition is good and if it’s sturdy enough is important if you want the best Bay Area solar roofing installation. Our licensed East Bay Area roofing contractors here to help you! Contact Century Roof Tile for any of your roofing or solar concerns at (888) 233-7548 or use our online contact form here.

The truth is that when it comes to making the best decisions in terms of both short and long terms roof costs, you have to clearly evaluate the state of your roof and determine whether it needs some minor repairs or a total makeover. This is particularly true for those who reside in areas where weather patterns tend to take a toll building and household roofs.

411 on Roof Repair

According to expert Bay Area roofing contractors, replacing the shingles on your roof damaged by wind or a downed limb is easy and not that expensive. This is because you can remove any torn shingles and have new ones put in their place. However, it is important to note that if your roof is not that new and you failed to save some of the spare shingles that came with it, then those used for your patch up job may not necessarily match the ones on your existing roof.

With all things considered, this is a fairly minor price to incur in order to pro-long the lifespan of your roof for at least 10 to 15 years. On the other hand, if you intend to sell your house in the near future, you should consult a professional East Bay roofing company and ask them to install shingles that match or closely resemble your existing ones.

On the downside, roof repairs tend to be more costly when looked at on a square-by-square basis and can also lead to further problems if you have an asphalt roof that has 2 or more layers because all of them will need to be removed so as for any sort of minimal re-roofing project to proceed.

In addition, in case of leaks, you should evaluate their source and then proceed to consult a professional roof company for roof leak repair.

Is a Full Roof Replacement Necessary?

Whether or not to replace your roof largely depends on certain variables, some of which include the wear and tear of your shingles, the climatic conditions of the area you live in, and the likelihood of any future damage to your home.

The truth is that having a new roof put in place can be a very expensive undertaking. However, you should remember that in spite of the huge costs, it is a worthy investment, particularly because it will last for years. With the right roofing company, the job can be done right and you will have one less issue to deal with whenever a storm blows your way. Furthermore, you will also incur fewer future expenses due to a reduced number of repairs.

Contact the Best Bay Area Roofing Contractors for Help

Century Roof Tile is a professional Bay Area roofing company that is well equipped to assess, repair or replace your roof. Contact our office today to set up a roof inspection  at (888) 233-7548 or via our online contact form here.

The Top Residential Roofing Trends

How recession changed the trends?
Recently conducted surveys have revealed that the majority of US residential roofing projects involve re-roofing. The country is currently home to hundreds of thousands of older homes, which will soon require a roof replacement or repair during the next few years. The recession of 2007-2008 prevented a large number of homeowners from putting off their re-roofing projects. During those torrid times, the country’s lending environment was unfavorable for any kind of home renovation.

At present day, these conditions have significantly improved such that the number of received calls from customers is increasing with each passing day. Through 2020, it is believed that the conditions will improve even more so. Soon, we will see the trend of homes with worn, older roofs subside.

Asphalt shingles are still the most beloved roofing material
With regards to the residential market, no other roofing material has succeeded in surpassing the popularity of asphalt shingles. Their modest cost and favorable appearance have allowed them to remain homeowners’ favorite product type within the residential roofing market. They also come with supplanted conventional three tab shingles. Experts predict that their popularity will continue to increase. The primary cause of their admiration is attributed to asphalt shingles’ ability to showcase damage resistance in exposure to high winds. They are the particular favorites of people living in the coastal areas who experience severe storms throughout the year.

Material considerations based on region
In the West and South, homeowners must select roofing material dependent on their building codes. These codes recommend cool roofing installation such to reduce energy consumption. Also, this allows products to meet those code requirements, (reflective, light-colored roofing) while gaining popularity at a great pace.

Roofing tiles and metal roofing materials are enjoying maximum popularity in the West and South.  Both for robustness (they offer higher resistance to wind) and aesthetic appeal, these materials score high regards, and thus, tend to be automatic choices for most homeowners living in the coastal regions.

However, it is believed that by 2020, other roofing materials like polymer products, natural slate, bituminous membranes will start gaining popularity in these parts of the country.

For Bay Area re-roofing, roof repair or solar roof installation, contact Century Roof & Solar

At Century Roof & Solar, we utilize all kinds of high quality roofing materials available on the market. You can contact us for carrying out roof installation, roof repair, as well as re-roofing. We can be contacted via phone at 510-780-9489 or by filling out our online contact form.

The main purpose of the roof is to protect the building’s structure and its’ contents from the elements. While every roofing product available on the market has the ability of doing that, some roofing materials are better suited to handle the particular climate in your region than others. Whether you live in an area that’s susceptible to rather high temperatures, high humidity or even a combination of high humidity and high temperatures (as with most tropical and subtropical climates), you will want to get the right roofing material which is capable of handling the climatic conditions in your area. In this article, we are going to discuss the popular roofing styles and how to choose the one suited for your area.

Metal Roofs

Metal roofing is becoming more and more popular as it offers a longer lifespan than most other types of roofs. It’s ideal for areas which experience extreme weathers, and is particularly good for the wet areas. There is no other roofing material that’s more capable of protecting your structure from strong winds or/and rains than an energy efficient metal roof. Nowadays, new metal roofing options are waterproof, rust resistant and can also resist growth of algae.

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material. They’re the most versatile roofs and can be used in nearly any kind of climate. However, they’re the easiest to get damaged. If you live in a particularly windy area, it’s best to avoid this type of roof to prevent increased need for roofing maintenance. If you reside in an area with high humidity, it is important to avoid the algae growth from the dampness on your roof; to do this, you can use asphalt shingles with algaecides.

Clay Tiles

These type of roofs are very aesthetically appealing and are also very durable and tend to last for many decades. If you live in a relatively hot area, then the Clay tile roof is the ideal roof for you. Although it’s a bit more expensive than the metal roofs or the shingles, Clay tiles help to block heat and are relatively wind resistant.

Slate Roofs

Slate roofs are exceedingly tough and very durable. Slate roofs are aesthetically pleasing and their natural slate appearance will give character to your home or property unlike most other roofing materials available on the market. Slate roofs come in a wide variety of color, are non combustible, waterproof and they require little maintenance. Slate roofs are ideal for those who live in moderate to relatively hot climates, as they can easily absorb the heat and help keep the home’s interior cool.

[See Also: How to Pick the Best Roof Color for Your Home]

Contact the Professionals at Century Roof & Tile for Guidance

The great thing about roofs is that there are numerous types to choose from, all of which are available from Century Roof & Tile. No matter the type or style of roof you choose for your Bay area home, you can be rest assured that we’ll get the job done right the first time. So, whether you are building a new home or replacing an old roof, get the best roof suited for your particular region. Contact our East Bay Roofing Contractors today at 1-888-233-7548 or fill out our online contact form.

Your roof is one of the most important aspects of your home because it protects you and your family from the harsh elements. Taking good care of your roof is key in having a long-lasting and solid roof. While some things should most definitely be left to the professionals, here are 5 simple ways to maintain your roof on your own:

1. Clean up debris

Taking the time to identify and remove debris from your roof is important in preventing rot and decay. Make sure to keep your roof clear of leafs, sticks, and trash pieces that might have found their way up there. Note that this check should be performed when your roof is dry and done with the assistance of at least one other person for safety reasons.

2. Remove moss

Moss and mold can soften and damage shingles if left too long. Wash infected shingles gently and scrub away all mossy pieces. Check the integrity of each shingle that appears to have fungus on it and replace or repair them as needed, taking care to leave no soft or broken shingles to expose your roof to the elements.

3. Repair shingles

After storms or strong winds, shingles can become broken without your knowledge. It is a good idea to regularly check your shingles to make sure that they are still in good shape and not in need of repair. If you do spot some broken or cracked shingles during a quick inspection, a local roofing company that specializes in roofing repair should be able to identify and replace them quickly.

4. Repair and clean chimneys and outlets

Chimneys, vents, and outside lighting should also be cleaned and repaired as needed. Power washing is an ideal way to perform this kind of cleaning as it will easily remove grime and reach tricky spots that are hard to find with only a ladder at your disposal.

5. Clean gutters

Gutters should be cleaned regularly to prevent the build-up of garbage and natural debris inside of them. A great way to make the cleaning and repair process easier on yourself is to install covers that keep dirt out. Inspect around the gutters for cracks or broken areas and repair them with caulking as necessary.

Contact Our Bay Area Roofing Contractors for Help

Maintaining your roof throughout the year is the most effective way to ensure that it stays in the best condition possible. In the colder months, rain and accumulation of leafs and twigs can potentially hide roofing problems that are easier to spot in better weather. As the winter months approach, consider enlisting the help of a professional roofing company like Century Roof & Solar to inspect your roof for any possible problems to ensure that your roof is well taken care of. They will be able to give you tips on continuing to care for your home as well as fix any issues that they might find. Visit our page at www.centuryrooftile.com to learn more.

Roofs are very important part of your home’s structure, but they also play a vital role in boosting the overall look of your house, and even its resale value in future. It’s not an easy task; if you’re trying to choose a color of roof tiles or shingles for your re-roofing project, take your time and think it through. You’re going to have that roof for many, many years–and let’s face it, a new roof isn’t a cheap home improvement project. Choose wisely and try not to be overwhelmed with the myriad of color combinations. Better yet, take the advice of a Bay Area roofing contractor who knows the business of roofing repair and replacement inside and out. Here are a few of our tips for choosing the best roof color that suits your home’s style and structure.

Go Dark or Go Light?

Since the roof is most sun exposed part of the home, its heat retention does depend a lot on the color of the roof tiles. If you choose a darker or lighter shade of roofing it will also affect the heat retention. Try going for a neutral shade in the grays and browns color family to lessen the risk. If the exterior of your home is a cool color, go with a shade of gray for the roofing. If the exterior of your home is a warm color, go with a shade of tan or brown for the tiles or shingles. If you don’t need the extra warmth in your home, and want to keep it cool, opt for a light colored roof. Depending on the design/shape of your roof, you may be able to choose a roof coating that reflects the solar heat and keeps it cool. There are also metallic paints that could be a solution to avoiding more heat from entering your homes when layered inside the roof deck.

Consider the Exterior Colors

Bricks are permanent structures, but you can still have some fun with shutters and front door’s paint colors. A good starting point would be to pair the shingle color with the brick first, and then match them with the paint colors. If your home isn’t brick, try matching the tones of the shingles to your dominant (or accent) exterior color.

Go for a neutral shingle color if you have a bold color for the exterior, and are planning to sell your home soon.

Another important factor would be to try and camouflage the gutters by matching them with the roof color. This will give your roof an extended look and good overall aesthetic appeal.

Consult with Our Bay Area Roofing Contractors First

So remember, take your time choosing the colors for your re-roofing or gutter installation options. Consult with our team at Century Roof & Tile for help and color samples to browse through. Our Bay Area roofing team is just a click or call away. Contact us today at (510)780-9489 or contact us online via our contact form.