Roofing materials take more punishment from mother nature than any other surface on your home.

That is why you need to make sure that its installed properly when it has to be changed.

That is the topic of this Fix it Friday episode with Kenny Guffey Construction.

Many of you will have new roofs installed because of the recent hail storms that hit our area over the last for few weeks.

If you are one of the unfortunate ones that need a roof replacement, then you want to make sure your roof is installed correctly and that you have the roof that best fits your house style and your budget.

To get the job done right for you, call Kenny Guffey Construction at (865) 577-3514.

With today's technology, innovative design engineers, our interest in the high cost of energy and with people's heightened interest in going "green", many new roofing products are available.

The most popular roof materials in residential uses are:
Granular asphalt singles

They come in mainly two styles but several different weights.

The styles are:
1. Three tab standard which has a twenty (20) Year wear rating.
2. Architectural - with a (30) year rating.
3. Architectural - with a (40) year rating.
4. Architectural - with a (50) year rating.

The four roofs mentioned are the most popular, but if your budget will allow there are several heavier and more expensive roof products available for your home.

Metal is an option that offers long-term durability, enhances a building's appearance, improves energy efficiency, and reduces environmental impact.

Metal roof materials are becoming more popular in residential applications each year.

Some of the benefits of a metal roof are:

1. Has a longer life span than asphalt based roofing.

2. Is considered a "green" product.

3. With the proper coatings and finishes applied, it is reflective and as a result, produces a much cooler surface and cooler attics resulting in lower energy costs.

4. Has a great architectural appeal.

5. It comes in many colors.

Cost is another factor that can range greatly.

From material costs of $80 per square (100 square feet - 10' x 10' area) to purchase standard
20 year roof shingles, and up to $300 to 400 per square for metal roofing materials.

There are also roof products made from reclaimed rubber from automobile tires that have life time warranty's but that option is very expensive.

The roofing installation can really play a big role in the longevity.

Installing roof shingles may be hard work but it really is a very simple process.

Kenny Guffey says the main thing is to follow manufacturers instructions and techniques when installing any
roofing product.

Many man hours and testing of the roofing products goes into the installation instruction documents before the product is sold.

They are written on each bundle of shingles.

But, unfortunately some installers think they know more than the manufacture and do not follow instructions, resulting in poor performance of the product.

Because of someone not following instructions, you the home owner, may encounter roof leaks and they can cost many dollars in damage repairs!

So what can you do to protect yourself when having roof work done?

When you do hire someone to install the roof, Kenny says to make sure their company is qualified, insured and has ample workmen to handle the project.

"Remember, if the workmen are not insured with workman compensation insurance, and someone falls and gets hurt, he has no one to fall back on but you, the home owner," said Kenny.

"Make sure you hire a competent, professional that is licensed and fully insured and it could very well be the best decision you make during this time of the hail storm disaster," Kenny adds.