Solar shingles are solar cells that are integrated into a roofing system and are solar panels that look like shingles and produce an energy output for your home. Solar panels are the more traditional option and are installed on top of the roof. Here we will talk about some of the differences and similarities between solar shingles and solar panels.  

What are Solar Shingles?  

Solar shingles are small-scale panels that can be permanently attached to the roof of a home. Like solar panels, solar shingles use a photovoltaic system to generate energy. Solar shingles are not a new technology on the market but are becoming increasingly popular for their improvements in looks and functionality. They consist of solar cells that are integrated into the roofing system and act as normal shingles but produce an energy output for your home. Solar shingles are less visible on the roof and can be a more aesthetically pleasing option for some homeowners. 

Cost of Solar Roof Shingles vs Panels 

Solar shingles are not a recent technology and have been around for a while, but the biggest drawback was the price and problems with functionality. As technology and solar shingles have advanced over the years and innovative ways to reduce the cost of installation, solar shingles have become more affordable. The cost of solar panels is still a cheaper option, yet the benefits of solar shingles far outweigh the cost. Solar shingles are less visible on the roof and can be a more aesthetically pleasing option for some homeowners.  

Other things to consider when deciding how much a solar shingle system will cost include the size of your home and how many solar shingles you need to get the most sunlight as possible. Something else to consider is that solar shingle installations usually take place during a roof replacement. This is so that the solar shingles do not need to be replaced as soon as possible, which could save you money in the long run. Undoubtedly also increasing the cost of a solar panel or solar shingle installation.  

Benefits of Solar Shingles 

Solar shingles offer a variety of benefits to customers who are looking for ways to save money on their energy bills. Among these benefits are improved home value and attractive aesthetics. 

Home Value  

Solar shingles can increase the resale value of your home. A recent study conducted by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory found that homes with solar energy systems sold 20% faster than homes without solar energy systems. The study also found that solar-powered homes sold for an average of 4.1% more than homes without solar energy systems. This means that if you install a solar shingle system on your home, you could see a return on your investment when you sell your home. Also having solar energy as shingles makes your home much more aesthetically pleasing.  

Environmentally Friendly Solution for Home Energy 

Solar shingles are a great way to produce energy for your home in an environmentally friendly way. Solar shingles are made from silicon, which is a natural element, and they do not produce any emissions when they are generating electricity. This means that solar shingles are a clean and renewable source of energy. Solar shingles are also a wonderful way to reduce your carbon footprint. 

Solar shingles produce no emissions, unlike fossil fuels, which are a leading cause of air pollution. They also have a small carbon footprint, which is the number of greenhouse gases that are emitted into the atmosphere.  

Seamless Aesthetic Design 

The main reason homeowners choose solar shingles vs solar panels is that they offer a variety of benefits to customers who are looking for ways to save money on their energy bills. Among these benefits are improved home value and attractive aesthetics. Solar shingles are less visible on the roof and can be a more aesthetically pleasing option for some homeowners. At DaBella our solar shingles are provided by GAF energy and are seamless with the rest of your asphalt shingles. Also, all the wiring is above the shingles and is amazingly easy to repair if ever needed. Solar panel wiring on the other hand is located under the panels which do cause  

Quick and Easy Installation 

GAF’s brand of TImberline® Solar Shingles are extremely easy to install. In fact, they have created the first nailable solar shingles on the market and after installers go through a simple training program by a GAF training professional, they are ready for installation. The solar shingles wiring is next to the solar roofing system and makes the installation even easier and will be much simpler to repair if it were ever needed compared to other brands of solar shingles and solar panels.  

Traditional solar panels require far more nails in your roof than a solar shingle because solar panels are installed over the asphalt or tile roof. This causes much more chances for leaks and other issues during installation.  

Low Failure Rate 

Traditional solar panels and other brands of solar shingles typically use a material that often gets overheated. GAF uses a PERC solar shingle system that does not overheat and reflects light to create even more energy for your home. In addition, GAF provides a 25-year warranty on their solar shingles as well as a 25-year warranty on the output that is generated from their solar roofing system. 

Disadvantages of Solar Shingles 

There are many benefits of Solar Shingles but very few disadvantages to GAF’s Timberline Solar Shingles.  

Cost of Solar shingles compared to Panels 

While the cost of GAF solar shingles is slightly more than panels, their innovative system of solar shingles can easily be repaired. Also, they are much more aesthetically pleasing than traditional solar panels.  

Limited Mobility 

Unfortunately, solar shingles are not as easy to transfer to a new home as solar panels. It is better to leave the solar shingles on the roof as they could help you sell your home in the future. 

Solar shingles vs. Panels. Which is best for my home?  

As you can see, there are many benefits to solar shingles that solar panels really cannot compete with. Solar shingles are a terrific way to reduce your carbon footprint, provide clean and renewable energy, and increase the value of your home. Solar shingles are also a great option for those who are looking for an aesthetically pleasing option. If you are looking for a quick and easy installation, solar shingles are a great option for you. Solar shingles have only a few disadvantages compared to solar panels, but they offer homeowners many more benefits.  

Cost: Solar shingles are a cost-efficient way to power your home with renewable energy. Solar shingles are less expensive to install than solar panels and their price has been steadily decreasing over the past few years. Solar shingles are also a wonderful way to reduce your carbon footprint and help the environment.  

Aesthetics: Solar shingles are less visible on the roof and can be a more aesthetically pleasing option for some homeowners as they are seamless to the rest of your roof and blend in better with the rest of the home.  

Durability: Solar shingles are a durable option for your roof. They are made from high-quality materials and are designed to last for many years. In addition, they are easy to repair if ever needed. Solar panels, on the other hand, are not as durable and can be damaged more easily. 

Contact DaBella Today to Learn More About our Solar Roofing Options 

If you are looking to add outstanding value to your home and want to install a renewable energy system that will last for many years, then you should consider solar shingles. Solar shingles are a low-cost, easy-to-install system that can provide you with clean, renewable energy. Not only are solar shingles a cost-effective way to power your home, but they are also a great way to reduce your carbon footprint. solar shingles are less visible on the roof and can be a more aesthetically pleasing option for some homeowners as they are seamless to the rest of your roof and blend in better with the rest of the home.  

DaBella currently provides homeowners located in San Diego California, Sacramento California and Redding California the option to add solar shingles to their roof replacement project. If you are interested in learning what kind of savings that GAF and DaBella can provide you with Timberline Solar Shingles, contact DaBella today at 844-DaBella for a free no-obligation estimate.

It is quite common to see solar panels on top of a home’s roof or on top of an office building. But a new type of solar option has been created. You have more than likely walked past a home with this new type of solar technology, but they are much harder to spot, they are called solar shingles. Solar shingles are made from a thin film that is installed on top of the roof and act just like regular asphalt shingles. The film captures sunlight and turns it into heat. But they also add the benefits of solar energy to reduce your energy costs and provide a clean source of energy for your home.  

Solar shingles are becoming a popular choice for homeowners because they do not stick out from the roof and look like a normal part of the house. Also, they are becoming increasingly more affordable as technology improves. Solar shingles are a wonderful way to reduce your carbon footprint and help the environment.  

What are Solar shingles?  

Solar shingles are made by the same material as regular solar panels with wires, and photosensitive film that is waterproof and attracts sunlight and converts that sunlight into energy for your home. GAF Timberline Solar Shingles are made with a special type of photosensitive material called Mono PERC cells that are designed to withstand extreme heat while still putting out their designed energy output.  

Installation Process for Solar Shingles? 

Usually, solar shingles are made to be installed during a roof replacement or during new construction. This is due to reducing the cost of the installation and the fact that there could be additional structural changes to the home as well as reducing the chance of error in installation. The benefit of installing Solar Shingles when getting a new roof is that your roof will last much longer and should not need to be replaced for many years to come.  

Solar shingles are easy to install for any contractor that has had roofing experience in the past. They come in strips and are applied to the roof in a similar fashion as regular asphalt shingles. Installation crews who have years of experience and are comfortable working on a roof can install them in a breeze. 

At DaBella, our manufacturer GAF, has created an amazingly easy guide for installation and have innovated the first nailable solar shingles that are made to withstand the elements. Including rain, snow, and wind speeds up to 130 mph. Once installation of the solar shingles the solar shingles are then connected to the home’s electrical system.  

GAF’s Timberline Solar Shingles come in long strips and are easy and fast to install and quicker to install than a traditional solar panel or asphalt shingle roofs.  

Once a permit is applied for and completed to connect the system to the electrical grid and is connected and operating as it should. Your home will now have the ability to utilize solar power for your energy needs. Solar shingles work by harvesting the sun’s energy and converting it into electrical energy that can power your home. Unlike traditional solar panels that only have one function of creating solar energy to be used for your home, solar shingles act as an energy provider but also act as an actual shingle.  

It is extremely important that you have a professional installation crew that has had experience with solar shingles to do this project as it does take some skill to professionally install these shingles. A DIY’er may have trouble getting the shingles installed properly as they are not designed to be installed by just anyone. GAF Timberline Solar Shingles are made to only be installed by a GAF certified contractor.  

Cost of Solar Shingles  

The cost of solar shingles will be determined by the size of the roof and how many solar shingles can be installed on it in order to achieve optimal sunlight harvesting. If the roof has too much shade from trees, then the shingles may not be able to produce a high output of solar energy. Of course, the price of new solar shingles will also vary by brand. The price for new solar shingles and a new asphalt roof can range from $30,000 to $100,000 depending on multiple factors such as size of the roof, where the sun hits and how many solar shingles are needed.  

Efficiency of Solar Shingles 

Solar shingles are efficient in their ability to produce solar power. They are able to produce around 5.96 watts of power per square foot and they can produce this power even in low light conditions. They are also exceptionally durable and can last for over 25 years with an energy output warranty that also lasts for 25 years. Solar shingles are a terrific way to produce solar power for your home and can save you a lot of money in the long run. 

Contact DaBella today for More Information on Timberline Solar Shingles 

GAF’s solar shingles have been tested and passed by an independent certification company has met industry standards such as the UL 7103 building integrated photovoltaics certification which tests the safety of electrical, temperature, mechanical loading, wind resistance, impact, and fire tests. The product’s output wiring system is also investigated for conformance with the provisions of the National Electrical Code (NEC). GAF has also claimed the award of Best of innovation for Smart Cities CES 2022. GAF has estimated that 1 out of every 4 homes in the United States has their brand of GAF architectural asphalt shingles making them far more popular than any other material on the market. They have also completed far more solar shingle installations than any other company as well, including Tesla’s solar roof. While GAF does not provide an energy storing system with their shingles, it is possible to have the solar shingles connected to an energy storage system from another company.  

If you are interested and are a homeowner located in Redding CA, San Diego CA or Sacramento CA and are wanting to learn more about the GAF Timberline Solar Shingles and to see if they are right for your home, contact DaBella today for a free estimate and see what kind of savings we can help you achieve. Contact DaBella today at 844-DaBella.

In this article we will discuss what the differences and similarities are between GAF vs Owens Corning. We will also discuss what the best roofing shingle manufacturer is for you and your home.  

When it comes to the top players in the roofing industry these two manufacturers are the most common and a favorite for homeowners across the United States. While GAF as well as Owens Corning both offer great high-quality products, we will break down the pros and cons of each to help you make an informed decision.  

GAF Shingles vs. Owens Corning Roofing Shingles: Industry Leaders 

GAF is by far the largest roofing manufacturer in the country and has been around for more than 100 years. GAF stands for General Anilline Film where they originally made asphalt compounds and other chemicals. With several different names and acquiring numerous acquisitions over the years, in 1892 GAF sold their RU-BER-OID ready to use asphalt rolls to put on roofs. In 1933 they introduced the tile-on shingles, an inexpensive and incredibly attractive alternative that many Americans switched to. While GAF invested in other products including partnering with Disney and creating their View Master that many are familiar with in the 1970’s and 80’s, they eventually put all of their efforts into creating high quality and energy efficient roofing solutions.  

Owens Corning has also been around for more than 100 years. When they first established themselves, they were highlighting fiberglass insulation products. They also eventually branched out and established partnerships with NASA, GM motors and several others and brought their fiberglass products to the consumers in a variety of ways. After many years of research and development they became one of the largest building material providers in the United States.  

GAF Shingles Pros & Cons  

Pros:  

• GAF offers a wide variety of styles and colors for you to choose from.  
• Extremely durable and long lasting.  
• It holds up against wind and hail extremely well.  
• Best-in-class warranties that will keep you protected for a lifetime.  
• GAF offers their shingles in a very wood-like appearance that will give your new roof a natural look.  
• Algae protection that will keep your roof looking great for years and stops the growth of moss and other algae on the roof.  

Cons:  

• The GAF roofing system is difficult for the average DIYer. You will need to hire a professional to install the shingles. Make sure to contact DaBella the #1 performing roofing company (according to Qualified Remodeler in the years 2021, 2022, 2023) in the United States for your next roof replacement.  

Owens Corning Pros & Cons 

Pros: 

• Owens Corning also offers an exceptionally durable shingle 
• There roofing is all about cost saving as they do not require a lot of the same materials needed in most other types of roofing.  

Cons: 

• You will be extremely limited in what color palette options they have available as they only offer a few different shades of roofing shingles.  
• Inferior quality products: there have been reports of their products not being of top quality and inconsistencies over all their products.  

Comparing Warranties Between these Manufactures  

This is where GAF really steals the show in comparison to other manufacturer warranties. This is exactly why DaBella had partnered with GAF since the very beginning. They offer the best warranty available to homeowners who use their product including the silver and golden-pledge warranties. These warranties are only available to contractors that are in Presidential and Master Elite status with GAF. DaBella has been a GAF Master Elite Contractor for several years and is one of the few contractors that is proud to offer their golden pledge warranty.  

This is especially apparent in the wind speed category for GAF’s warranty. GAF offers a non-prorated wind warranty that covers all wind damage up to 130 Miles per hour. Owens corning only covers wind speeds up to 110 miles per hour. So, if you live in an area where high winds are a common occurrence, then GAF products and warranties may be the best choice for you.  

Energy Efficiency & Solar Options  

As more and more homeowners are looking to save money and look for environmentally friendly options to reduce their carbon footprint. Building product manufacturers are doing the same to keep up with demand. Both of these manufacturers have taken massive steps over the last 20 years to improve their shingles to be reflective of UV rays.  

GAF for example has their Timberline Cool Series that improves the reflection of UV rays without having to have a light shade of shingle. The granules they use help reflect the light at the same time reducing the amount of heat to get below and into the home. Having the UV protecting qualities of GAF’s Cool Series Shingles is an impressive benefit without having to go with a shingle that has a lighter shade.  

Owens corning has their Cool Roof Collection that has shingles that also reduce the heat in your home. This collection of shingles also have reflective granules that reduce the amount of heat that gets into your home. These shingles only come in a lighter shade but work just as well as GAF’s.  

Where GAF also stands out is their drive for innovation and their commitment to the environment. GAF has recently come out with solar options that have been designed to look seamless into your new roof. There solar panels may pay themselves off over a period because of the reduced amount of electricity needed to heat and turn on the lights in your home. GAF’s constant commitment to innovation is something that DaBella is immensely proud to be a part of.  

Certification & Training 

GAF provides their Master Elite certification. This certification is testament to a contractor’s ability to provide excellent customer service and to provide homeowners with high quality installation. For a company to achieve this certification they need to be licensed and insured. Have excellent customer reviews for completed work. Also, a commitment to growing with GAF and keeping up with GAF training and new products. GAF Master Elite contractors are experienced enough and have the credibility to provide homeowners with best-in-class warranties. DaBella is just one of the 3% of roofers in the United States that holds the Master Elite contractor badge. When you have a combination of high-quality installations and warranties that will keep you safe for a lifetime, DaBella is the obvious choice for your next roof replacement.  

Owens corning also provides their contractors with a certification for access to their best manufacturer warranties. While they are much better warranties than their standard protection, these warranties usually come at an added cost on top of the materials and labor.  

Get The Professionally Installed GAF Roof From DaBella

While Both GAF and Owens Corning have exceptional warranties and great roofing systems, at DaBella GAF is stand out roofing manufacturer and is exactly why we have partnered with them. This is not just because of their product it is because they gave our company the ability to perform great installations and give our homeowners only the best warranties to keep their peace of mind.  

If GAF and DaBella sound like the best choice for you and your home, contact us today at 844-DaBella. We are regarded as the number one roofing company in the United States according to Qualified Remodeler. We have also been ranked number 11 in Qualified Remodelers annual 2022 top 500 list. Last year on the annual 500 list we were ranked number 15. DaBella has a vision of transforming the home improvement experience for homeowners and we have a constant dedication to care for families and to care for homes. Contact DaBella for your next Roofing, siding, windows, or bath and shower remodel today for a free estimate.  

Getting a new roof can require a lot of thought about what material you should use, what exactly should be replaced, and what should stay. Another decision that many ask is, do roof box vents need to be replaced when getting a new roof? In this article, we will be discussing what box vents are used for, how long they should last, signs that they need to be replaced, and if it matters what kind of vents you choose. 

Types of Roof Vents? 

There are a variety of types of roof vents on the market, and they all serve a similar purpose. Some are passive and just help ventilate your attic, while others are active and help regulate your heating and cooling systems. It is best to select a vent type based on your needs and budget, and your local home improvement contractor can help you determine which type is right for you. Most of the time, you will want to select a passive vent, but if you have a particularly large space in your attic, an active vent may be a better choice. In theory, you should install a vent for every 300 sqft of attic space, however, if your roof does not have a vapor barrier then there should be a vent for every 150 sqft.  

Your home’s ventilation works by pulling air from outside and into your attic while forcing out the heat from the inside. Both passive and active systems do the same job- to keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter and one is no better than the other. 

Passive Vents 

Passive vents are passive in the sense that they are not powered by electricity or other power sources. They are powered by the natural convection of air that moves through the ventilation system. Active vents are powered by electricity or other powered sources such as solar. The most common types of passive vents are static, gable end vents, and ridge vents without a baffle.  

Static Vents 

Static roof vents are usually metal and are a single-piece structure that typically attaches to the roof overhangs or eaves of your home and creates a venting chimney. The chimney directs the flow of air through the roof vents and up to the roof ridge or gable of your home. They are mounted on the roof and are operated manually. These vents are the most basic and least expensive roof ventilation system. They are often used to exhaust warm air from your living space and force it outside, where it will be removed from your home by the wind. Static vents often work by creating an air flow path on the roof that vents the hot air into the air outside. 

Ridge Roof Vents Without a Baffle 

A ridge vent is cut into the ridge and runs all the way across your roof. Ridge vents without a baffle are the most used roof vent type and can be found in commercial and residential buildings. They are not much different from ridge vents with a baffle, although without the baffle nothing stops the stifling air from directly entering your home. A ridge vent without a baffle only vents the warm air to the outside. They are not designed to stop frigid air from coming in, which means that they do not protect your home from the cold. There are also issues with these types of vents because they do tend to trap rain, snow, and debris to enter your attic.  

Gable End Vents 

The gable end of your roof is called a gable. A gable vent, also called a gable end vent, is a hole cut into the end of the gable. The gable end vent is a simple rectangular opening that allows warm air to leave your home but does not let chilly air inside. It vents the warm air outside and keeps the frigid air inside. Gabble end vents are commonly used to exhaust the warm air from your attic and direct it outside, where it will be removed by the wind. They are also used to exhaust the warm air from your home in the summer and bring in cool air in the winter. A gable end vent is one of the most popular roof vents because they are aesthetically pleasing and can be easily cut into the gable of your home. 

Active Air Vents 

Active vents are also referred to as Powered Roof Vents or Electric Roof Vents. They are roof vents that are powered by electricity or other powered sources such as solar. Both styles of vents have the ability to both exhaust and intake new air, which allows them to be used to exhaust or intake heat while keeping your home at the temperature you set it at. They are better at removing the heat from your home and better at cooling your home in the summer and warmer in the winter. The most common types of active vents are turbine vents, ridge vents with a baffle, power vents, and solar-powered vents.  

Solar Powered Roof Vents 

The heat from the sun can be collected and used to run a fan, which pushes the hot air out, so it can be removed from the home. A solar-powered roof vent is a roof vent that derives its energy through the use of solar panels. They are considered the most environmentally friendly type of roof ventilation. A solar powered roof vent is a system that uses the energy from the Sun to run an external device without using electricity from the grid. They are usually mounted on a building’s peak or ridge and monitor the air quality in the attic, which can help you understand how to keep your home cleaner and reduce the effects of air pollution. The units are small, lightweight, and energy-efficient and can save you money by reducing your energy costs. 

Turbine Vents 

Turbine vents are commonly used in attics and basements of houses. They are usually cut as part of the gable end of the roof and installed in a ridge. A turbine vent can capture the energy of the wind and use it to power an external device. Turbine vents, also called power vents, are a form of roof ventilation that uses exhaust fans or turbines to exhaust warm air out of a building. Turbine vents are great at moving air around your attic. There is a common misconception that turbine vents are penetrable by water and snow because they have slats that are cut into the vent, but they are designed to do the opposite.  

Power Vents 

Power vents are another type of power-driven roof ventilation. They are like turbine vents; except they use power instead of exhaust fans to move air around the attic. Power vents are a smart choice for homes with low ceilings, as they are designed to fit into smaller spaces. Power vents are a type of active roof ventilation that uses a power source to move air through your home. They are like turbine vents, but instead of using the energy of the wind, they use the energy of a power source such as electricity. Power vents are better at removing the heat from your home and better at cooling your home in the summer and warmer in the winter. The most common types of power vents are power vent with a baffle, power vents, and solar powered vents. These types of vents due tend to fail after a while and will need to be replaced at some point down the line. They are also not great at removing moisture from your home and can build up humidity, especially in the winter.  

Ridge Roof Vent with Baffle 

The Ridge Vent with Baffle is a type of Roof Vent with a baffle that is used for attics and basements. The baffle allows the heat from your home to escape, while still allowing fresh air to enter the space. The baffle also helps direct the air flow in such a way that reduces the need for fans, which helps keep energy costs down. The ridge vent with baffle is considered the most energy-efficient type of roof ventilation. A ridge vent is a vent that is cut into the ridge of your roof. They let fresh air in and exhaust stale air out so your home stays comfortable, even when it’s hot. Most ridge vents are power vents, which use exhaust fans to remove heat from your home. A ridge vent with a baffle is a type of power vent that has a baffle, which is a screen designed to improve the airflow through the vent. 

Why Are Roof Ventilation Systems So Important? 

A ventilation system in your attic is an important part of keeping your home comfortable, even when the temperature is hot or cold. It removes the heat and moisture from your attic, which prevents your home from getting too hot or humid. It also helps keep your home clean by removing the odors that build up in your attic. A ventilation system in your attic is usually made up of a series of vents and exhaust fans. 

If your attic ventilation system is not working properly, your home’s air quality will be affected. When your attic ventilation system is not working properly, the hot, stale air in your attic will accumulate. This will make the air in your home uncomfortable and unhealthy, especially if you have small children or animals in your home. Over time, this will damage your home’s air quality, causing respiratory problems and other health problems. 

How Long do Roof Vents Last?  

The average lifespan of a roof vent is about 10-20 years, but the lifespan of your roof vent will depend on a variety of factors. Some factors that will affect the lifespan of your roof vent include the type of roof vent, the material your roof vent is made from, and the care your roof vent receives. Generally, roof vents are made from metal or plastic, but there are also varieties made from wood, steel, and other materials. The type of material your roof vent is made from will affect the lifespan of your roof vent. Roof vents made from metal usually last longer than other materials, but any kind of vent material usually comes with some maintenance work every so often.  If you ever notice signs of a leak, your old vents could be a good suspect for the leak. We created an article about how to find a leak and how to fix it. 

Over time, your roof vents will require some maintenance to keep them in good condition. This maintenance can range from minor things, such as cleaning debris out of your vents, to more major repairs, such as replacing your roof vents entirely. This is normal and should be expected. The frequency of the maintenance you need to perform will depend on your roof vents’ material. 

Signs Your Roof Vent Needs To be Replaced 

If your vents have started to look worn, or if they are making strange noises, it may be time to replace your roof vents. When you notice signs that your roof vents need to be replaced, it’s best to have a professional inspect your roof vent to determine which type of roof vent would be best for your home. Signs your roof vents need to be replaced include bent or broken vents, holes in your vents, and missing parts. If any of these signs are present, it is time to replace your roof vents. Your local contractor can help you decide when it is time to replace your roof vents. Roof vents do get old and will start to wear over time. It may be a clever idea to replace your vents when you replace your roof if you had not done it already.  

DaBella Roof Replacement & Roof Vent Experts 

DaBella is well known as the top roofing contractor in the United States. We have been granted this by one of the top publications in the home improvement industry; Qualified Remodeler. This is in part because we have solidified ourselves and proven repeatedly that we execute flawless installations. We care for our homeowners and show them that we are transforming the home improvement experience and go above and beyond for our customers.  

DaBella is currently found in 13 states and offers home improvement services to homeowners that are near our 38 locations. We have conducted and executed thousands of jobs over the last ten years for homeowners for either their roof replacement, James Hardie Fiber Cement projects, vinyl window installation, or bath and shower installations.  

DaBella and our partner GAF are proud to offer our homeowners top-of-the-line roofing materials, factory-trained installers, and industry-leading warranties. Because of our relationship with GAF and holding high standards for our installations and customer service we have been recognized as a Master Elite Roofer. This title gives us the opportunity to provide the GAF silver-pledge and golden-pledge warranties. We offer our roofs in a wide range of styles and options and we can find something that will meet your needs and taste. For a free no-obligation estimate, call us today at 844-DaBella and we will have one of our qualified specialists come to your home and give you a free consultation and estimate. We look forward to showing you the possibilities for your home for your roof, siding, windows or your bathtub or shower.  

What is Wind Damage? 

Wind damage to your home can be the cause of any kind of incremental weather that has caused damage to your home in one way or another. The average home can usually withstand about 100 miles per hour of wind without being completely destroyed while still taking a considerable amount of damage. Damaging winds are considered anywhere above 60 mph. These types of winds can wreak havoc and cause concern for many components of your home including your roof, windows, siding, gutters as well as your home’s foundation and structural integrity.  

Signs of Wind Damage to Shingles 

Roof Damage from wind is considered the most likely to occur even with slower winds. If 40-90 mph winds are considered normal in your area, your roof will show signs of damage overtime including lifting, curling, damaged shingles, missing shingles, tilting chimney, sofit and fascia damage, granule loss as well as leaks that occur due to missing or damaged shingles. Because wind doesn’t hit the entire roof uniformly, edges and peaks and already loose shingles are the most susceptible to missing and damaged shingles. Also taking into consideration of trees and other objects around your yard, the edges and peaks are more likely to sustain damage of fallen debris.  

Missing & Damaged Shingles 

Wind damage to roof shingles will usually cause the shingles to fly off your roof or damage them greatly. You will find them throughout your yard. If you do find missing or broken shingles on your roof, you will want to call a professional roofer to gauge the issues and come to a solution. If your roof is new then a simple repair could be plausible, but if your roof is getting to the end of its lifespan then it may need removal and replacement solution.  

Lifting & Curling 

Your roofing shingles make it so rainwater does not seep through to the underlayment or decking. If your shingles appear out of place, loose or are curling, then this is a good sign of wind damage. Usually this happens at stressful points and should be handled by a professional roofing company.  

Soffit & Fascia Damage 

Your soffit and fascia are responsible for keeping rainwater away from your home and foundation. When these essentials of your roof crack, become loose or completely blow off due to wind you’re opening your home to the chance of a leak. Have a professional roofer come out and assess the situation and see if the soffit or fascia can be repaired.  

Granule Loss 

Granule loss happens when the sandpaper like shingles is hit by either hale or wind. The best place to look for granule loss is in your gutters. You will find fine pieces of your roof in your gutters. The granules on your shingles are a good way to tell the age of the roof and increasing the rate of granule loss may age your roof quicker.  

Leaking 

Leaks can be hard to find. But over time the leaks can be found throughout your home. You can look at the ceilings and the walls. If you notice any staining or any bubbling, then it will be obvious that you have a leak in your roof. We have an entire article on how leaks happen and how to find them.  

Tilting Chimney 

Another way you may notice that your roof is showing signs of wind damage is by looking at your chimney. Because your chimney sticks out like a sore thumb, it can be extremely vulnerable to being damaged by high winds. High winds apply so much pressure to your chimney that it could make it tilt. Once your chimney starts to tilt, flashing will inevitably break and allow rainwater to seep through and cause possible water damage if not taken care of immediately. 

Wind Damage to Roof Shingles from Debris & Fallen Trees 

Windthrow refers to trees that were blown over with the roots still attached. On the other hand, there is also a term called wind snap. Wind snap is when a tree falls, and the roots stay in place and the tree falls at the trunk. Blowdown trees can be detrimental to your home especially for those living in states home to the biggest trees including redwoods, mountain ash, Douglas firs, sequoias etc. If these types of trees, with the help of heavy winds, do cause a blowdown, then they can have some serious consequences for your home. They can impact the structural integrity of your home and cause significant damage, but they may even cause some minor damage.  

What we recommend is have a professional arborist or someone from your insurance company come out and evaluate your property for risk of fallen trees. Overgrown or awkwardly grown trees should be taken care of by an arborist before a worst-case scenario happens and cost you thousands of dollars in property damage that your home insurance company may or may not cover. 

Wind Damage to Roof Insurance Claims 

Insurance companies may include coverage of fallen trees that have impacted your home and caused severe damage. How insurance companies work is that they will assess your property for risk of fallen trees. If they feel that your home has a strong risk of falling trees then it will be covered by insurance, but you will need to pay a more expensive premium if you do decide to keep the trees around your home.  

For damage that was done and did not involve any debris or fallen trees. Homeowners insurance usually covers any kind of wind damage to roofing shingles and any other kind of inclement weather. There has been some instances of insurance companies not covering wind damage because of a bad installation. 

Therefore, it is essential to have a reputable and highly professional roofer install your new roof. In order to find the best home improvement company for your home the right questions for them will be essential for a successful home improvement project. We have created a list of 9 questions to ask your home improvement contractor,  DaBella has been in business for over 11 years and has completed thousands of home improvement jobs with factory trained installers and top tier warranties that will keep you protected for a lifetime.  

Repairing Wind Damaged Shingles 

DIY repair jobs on your roof are more than possible, especially so if you are more handy with tools. A minor patch job can sometimes be an easy fix but anything bigger or more problematic should be done by a reputable roofer that does repair jobs.  

Starting the repair process should be done as soon as possible to reduce the risk of leaking or other shingles to tear off. Firstly, to prevent any further damage, you will need tarps or plywood that are weighed down so that they do not fly off in another windstorm. If there is any damage it is good to get a professional roofer out to your home to assess the damage and give an estimate of repair.  

You may also want to consider the age of your roof. If your shingled roof is over 20-25 years old, then you may want to weigh the costs of a repair and a full replacement of your roof. If your roof is considered still relatively new and in good condition, then a simple repair may be best for you. At DaBella we specialize in full removal and replacement of roofs. If you need an estimate to decide whether a removal and replacement is best for your roof, contact us today! 

If you do decide to DIY the repair job some personal protection equipment that you should consider includes steel-toed boots, long sleeve shirt, durable pants, cowhide gloves, and eye protection. The most common injuries after major windstorms are usually caused by exposed nails, broken glass, and other sharp items.  

Finding a Contractor for the Significant Repair or Replacement 

We created an article on how to find a contractor. The article explains the best ways to go about finding a contractor. Also, refer to the list of questions for contractors mentioned before in this article.  

Talk to your insurance company about the best way to fix the repair. If they recommend a licensed roofer to repair the damage, then do so strategically. It is very important to do your due diligence before hiring a contractor to do any work.  

You should consider that many contractors do fly by night execution of providing estimates to those that have been affected by major storms. While these types of contractors do have experience and most of the time do good work, they can be off putting. You should always get multiple estimates to compare costs and warranties of contractor products and installations.  

It is also good to look at completed job reviews of the company you are looking to hire. These reviews are great for those looking for reputable companies with a track record of customer satisfaction. See our DaBella reviews based on your closest office here.  

How Can DaBella Help You?  

DaBella is recognized as the #1 performing residential roofing contractor according to the annual Qualified Remodeler Top 500 report in 2021, 2022, and 2023. We would not have received this honor without our employees who exemplify hard work and going above and beyond for customer satisfaction. We also have very close relations with our roofing manufacturer, GAF. With a relationship that has started since essentially when DaBella started, we have been labeled as a Master Elite roofer and apart of the Presidents Club.  

We have been given these awards for our flawless installations and giving our customers the best home improvement experience possible. These awards also allow us to give our homeowners the best warranties including the GAF Golden and Silver pledge warranties.  

If a windstorm has created problems at your home, then give us a call today and we will have one of our many specialists evaluate the damage and come up with a solution for your home. DaBella specializes in architectural asphalt roofing, James Hardie fiber cement siding, vinyl windows, and unique bath & shower remodels. Contact us today at 844-DaBella.  

Are You Experiencing a Leaking Roof? Here Are Some Possible Reasons Why

Your home’s roof may be one of the most important aspects of your house. Your roof is the first line of defense against anything that may hurt or damage one of your most important assets. If your roof is leaking, chances are that it is a combination of things that have happened within a few years. In this article we will help you how to find a leak in a roof and find a possible cause for the leak. First, let’s point out some possible reasons why your roof is leaking.  

Life Expectancy of a Roof 

The life expectancy of an asphalt roof is about 20-30 years. If your roof is around this age and depending on your climate, this could be an easy indicator why your roof is leaking and is a good sign it could be time to replace your roof. The life expectancy of your metal roof is about 50-60 years. Metal roofs are known to expand and contract depending on the temperature outside. If your roof expands enough and it starts raining, that moisture will instantly get in between the sheets of metal and accumulate into your attic and eventually into your ceiling.  

Poor Installation 

Another reason your roof may be leaking is because the contractor that replaced or built the home did a poor installation. You should always make sure your roofing company that you choose to repair your roof is reputable and has a good amount of experience. For your next roofing project, contact DaBella, we have been in business for 10 years and complete thousands of jobs every year. We are GAF certified Master Elite contractor which entails that we are insured & licensed in every state and county we operate in. We have a clean record of accomplishment of providing a quality home improvement service from start to finish. We are highly qualified, which means that we are up to date on GAF training and certification and can offer the best GAF warranties including the Golden Pledge and Silver Pledge warranties.  

Acts of God 

If your roof is below the average life expectancy, then chances are that your roof has experienced impact damage from hail or a branch that fell from a tree nearby that will cause holes and cracks in the shingles. Another possibility is high winds have potentially ripped your shingles off or have lifted them and moisture has been building up and will end up causing a leak. It is important to stay up to date on where your roof is in its life cycle and peek at it occasionally and see if you can notice any warning signs before it is too late.  

Your Gutters Are Clogged 

Neglecting your gutters is a common homeowner mistake that can cause drastic problems with your roof that you may not ever see until it’s too late. If you’ve been neglecting your gutters and haven’t been cleaning them on a regular basis this can cause water to pool up and concentrate in a spot of the roof that will inevitably lead to a leak in your roof. What you can do to reduce this risk is to regularly clean your gutters by getting on a ladder and removing any debris that is present. Also, carrying a bucket or putting a tarp down below will help the cleanup process. If you are unable to get on the ladder, have a relative or a professional take care of this issue for you.  

Your Skylights Were Installed Inadequately  

Leaks around skylights are typically easy to spot and fix. If you’re noticing unusual amounts of water on the floor underneath a skylight, chances are that the flashing around the skylight may have cracked or originally wasn’t installed properly. The size of the skylight may have been poorly measured and as a result water has been able to get in between the skylight, insulation and flashing. Have a professional roofing company fix this small issue and check to see if there are any issues with other flashing around the roof.  

The Flashing Is Not Sealed or It Has Cracked 

Flashing is the thin metal pieces that are installed on the joints of your roof that are exposed, for example around the chimney, vents or skylights. These are installed to create a waterproof seal. If you find a part of your flashing that is cracked there is a possibility that water will seep through and into your attic. Usually, contractors put a layer of tar on the flashing and overtime this tar may corrode and allow the flashing to be exposed. This type of repair should be done by a professional roofer if you do not have any experience working on a roof. Missing steps or not doing the proper installation could do more harm than good.  

Roof Valleys are Poorly Sealed 

This is the part of the roof where two sides of a roof meet and form an angle. The Valley is the line that separates the two with a metal strip that acts as a barrier to keep water out where the two sides meet. These types of leaks are typically easy to spot because you can check the seams and see if there is any dampness. Leaks that are found in the valleys are mostly due to the valley’s not being installed correctly, the insulation has broken down or, you or somebody on your roof has stepped on and broken the fragile element of your roof. This can also be a taxing job for the average individual and should be done by a professional to restore the roof without any mistakes.  

Ice Dam Buildup 

An Ice dam is a ridge of ice that holds the snow from falling off roof. After the snow melts the ice dam will stay and won’t allow the water to flow off the roof. This added weight of ice and water can cause havoc on your roof and may result in a leak. The leak happens because the heat of your attic creates a layer of water underneath the ice to sit and seep into cracks. This can be an easy fix for any individual willing to get on a ladder and try to break the ice with a shovel. You will need to be extremely cautious with this though as hundreds of pounds of snow may fall off your roof and could cause injury. If you do not feel confident in this task, call a professional or a friend who is comfortable with this somewhat cautious task.  

Too Much Foot Traffic on Your Roof 

Venturing onto your roof to check out the condition, hang Christmas lights up, or replacing a broken shingle can cause some serious issues if you don’t know exactly where you’re stepping. The materials on your roof are very fragile and can be moved around when stepped on, especially more so if you have a clay tile roof. Asphalt roofing shingles are amazingly easy to see where foot traffic has happened, especially if it is continuous walking over many years. When you install a brand-new roof, you may be eager to see the work your contractor completed at a closer view. The tiles or shingles may seem exceptionally durable at first, but they are not as strong as you think. Several components of your roof can be damaged from foot traffic including the tiles, underlayment and the foundation wood. After a few years these tiles become brittle and more prone to cracking and walking on your roof may accelerate this process.  

Finding Leak in Roof 

So how do you find that leak that is threatening the structural stability of your home? 

Early signs of a roof leak include water stains on your ceiling, rotten wood beams and mold in the insulations, or damaged shingles that look to be curled, cracked or loose. When you see these signs, you should immediately try to pinpoint where the leak is coming from.  

The first place to look for leaks is by the chimney or vents. Anywhere there are openings in your roof that require extra protection and sealants are the most likely to see leaks. Either the flashing, caulking or insulation have been damaged and will need to be fixed by a professional roofer.  

Another way to find a leak is by searching for water stains on the attic floor. Water leaks do sometimes travel to other parts of the roof on wood beams or any other surface that is underneath the leak. If you see a leak on the floor of your attic, then chances are the originating spot is very close by. If you also notice any mold or abnormal color, then you more than likely have a leak in your roof. 

If your forecast doesn’t predict any rain anytime soon, you can get on the roof and run water down your roof and have someone else search for where the leak is in the attic. While you’re up on your roof look for any damaged or missing shingles.  

What Should You Do If You Have a Leak?  

First, assess the cause of the leak. If there is a forecast for rain, put a tarp over the damaged area. Then do some research for professional and qualified roofers to fix and assess whether the roof needs a minor repair or be replaced because of the age of the roof or the damage that was done from the leak. You can do a DIY fix if you feel comfortable doing so, but it is never worth getting on your roof and injuring yourself or causing more damage to the roof than the original leak.  

You may have a leak without even knowing it. Here is a list of signs of a leak in your roof: 

• Damp spots on floors
• Unpleasant water stains on ceiling 
• Missing shingles 
• Paint peeling or bubbling 

If you do have any of these signs, you must act immediately to reduce the risk of further damage to your home.  

DaBella, The Top-Rated Roofing Contractors in Your Area 

If you see signs of your roof showing its age, contact the experts at DaBella. We can diagnose any kind of issues that you may be seeing and give you recommendations on what your next steps should be. DaBella is well known as being the top roofing company according to several organizations including Qualified Remodeler and Guild Quality. We have these accolades because we provide some of the best customer service, factory trained installers that get the job done the right way. As well as strategic partnerships with manufacturers including GAF, James Hardie and Alside allow us to provide exceptionally great warranties that leave you protected.  

Contact DaBella today for a free no obligation estimates and we will come out to your home and do a precise measurement and go through our catalog of options. You’re looking to add lasting value to your home and our home improvement experts will help your home to reach its full beauty and efficiency. If you’re ready to take the next steps for your roofing, siding, windows or Bath and shower replacement project call us today at 844-DaBella.

You Have Questions About Your Roof, We’ll Answer them.

First off, you must look at what type of roof you currently have on your home, shed, man cave, barn etc. If it is a flat roof you may want to consider a different type of material compared to a steep sloped roof. If you do have a flat roof, we would recommend a torch down roof for its fast, easy, and inexpensive installation.

You should also look at what kind of material is already on your roof, for example, if you have an asphalt roof already, it may be a clever idea to stick with what you already have to avoid extra costs for framing if you are thinking of going for a heavier material. If you are thinking of going with a lighter material than what you already have then you should not have to worry about extra costs.

Here at Dabella, we are a GAF Master Elite roofer and offer the top brand of architectural asphalt shingles with best-in-class warranties. We were ranked as the top performing roofing company and ranked 15th overall for home remodelers in the US according to the 43rd annual Qualified Remodeler top 500 list.

List of Roofing Materials

Here is a list of roofing materials that are most common for residential homes. Each type of Roofing material is different in it’s own way. Consider the advantages and disadvantages of each:

Asphalt Shingles

Being the most common roofing materials for residential homes, asphalt shingle roofs can also be the most affordable choices and one of the easiest materials to install compared to others listed. Asphalt shingles come in a wide range of colors and styles for your choosing that will make your home look beautiful and keep your family safe from any kind of weather conditions. GAF architectural asphalt shingles are fire resistant and can withstand a category 3 hurricane.

Slate Shingles

Slate shingles are known for their beautiful rustic look, that will last you several years. Life expectancy looks incredibly attractive, but it does come at a heavy cost. It can also be hard to find a contractor that does this type of roof because of its difficult installation. Something also to consider is the weight that slate shingles have on your home. If you are thinking of making the move from a basic asphalt or shake roof to a slate shingle, you will need to make improvements to your framing to counteract the weight which will lead to a heavier cost.

Clay & Concrete Tiles

Clay & Concrete tiles are extremely popular in the desert states such as Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico, and California. They are popular in these states because of their climate and little chance of a tile getting broken or swept off the house. Having this type of roof anywhere else in the US can be costly for the maintenance required. They are extremely durable and are built to last a lifetime. That being said, this material of roofing can be expensive, but worth it if you live in the right area of the country. Usually after about 25-30 years or so you will need to do a small restoration project to maintain the original quality of the roof under the tiles. Contact us at 844-Dabella and discuss your next tile roofing restoration project.

Metal Roofing

Metal roofs do come with a lot of benefits; they are durable, can stand extreme weather conditions, fire resistant and will last a long time. But with all the benefits, there are some problems that may persist once your new metal roof is put on. For one, the noise of the roof will be noticeable, especially during rainy days. A metal roof often expands, and contracts depending on the weather which can lead to water getting into your roof and causing extensive damage. Because of the complexity and small percentage of contractors that specialize in this trade, they are much more expensive to replace as well as repair compared to other materials.

Wood Shake

A cedar shake roof is great if you really want that rustic look, but this type of roofing material comes with a huge risk. It is extremely flammable, and, in some areas, they are not allowed because of this. Also, this type of roof can be prone to splitting which will allow water to get through and cause rot and leaks in your roof.

Rubber Slate Shingles

Having all the same qualities of a slate roof, this new type of roofing is lighter and may not need framing work to install. Rubber slate roofing is much more expensive compared to other materials. It may have the qualities, but if you want to go for the Victorian style and do not want to go with real slate roofing then this may be a better option.

What Can DaBella Do to Help me?

DaBella is a GAF Certified Elite contractor with offices expanding across 12 states and 31 locations. We have been privileged to be recognized as the top performing roofing company according to Qualified Remodelers 43rd annual Top 500 list of remodeling companies across the United States. We offer architectural asphalt shingles provided by GAF.

Dabella has also been recognized as one of the few prestigious roofing contractors that have been awarded with the GAF Presidents Club Badge. GAF also has also honored us with the Installation Excellence award, Consumer Protection Excellence award and the training excellence award. They prove our purpose to care for families: to care for homes.

Get a free quote on your next roofing project by contacting DaBella today at 844-DaBella. You can also set up a free no obligation quote with one of our great roofing specialists by going onto our website and filling out a quick form. DaBella also specializes in siding, windows, and bathtub and shower replacement projects. Get your free quote today and save 10% on your next home project.