Monthly Archives: December 2010

Research a Project

One of Alure Home Improvements qualified, experienced new home or addition designers will come to your home and discuss the options that are available to you, based on your family needs, age and construction of the home, size of the property, building requirements within your municipality and a few other important factors

Plan a Project

After an inspection of the homes mechanical systems, and basic structure of the home, through discussion and a presentation of possible ideas a concept for the project will be established. Once that concept is agreed upon, an architect comes to the home with the designer to discuss the project details, lend his opinions and to verify all field measurements and to document the structure of the house and the planned changes. We are then able to bring the architects elevations of the proposed changes to our 8000 square foot showroom and create a digital image of your new home on a large screen to show you how the renovation will look. This is an excellent communication tool that allows you make decisions on the final product. It allows us to create the “picture perfect” version of the renovation of your new home and communicate those details to all who will be involved in making the concept become a reality.

At this point, the architect’s plans are reviewed and refined to show the changes that our discussions have brought up. Lastly, a final set of plans are drawn up that reflect the final project. After that is reviewed, those plans are used to apply for permits at the local municipality

Begin a Project

The installation process coordinated by Alure with the local building department for inspections is tricky to describe as each project is different and some municipalities requirements will have a part in how the job progresses

The installation process starts with a review of the job by one our own project managers, the designer and the clients. This is done at the home with the plans of the renovation and the details of the job requirements so the project manager can plan the job effectively

Once permits are granted the work can begin. In most cases that means any needed cement work is done, preparation to the existing structure is started to support or otherwise allow the addition to take place

Structural support changes or cement work is then inspected by the local building department. What happens next will depend greatly on whether the project is built on-site or off site as a modular addition or new home. For the clarity of this information, we are describing an on site or “stick built” project

Generally the events are:

• Materials delivery
• Rough framing of exterior walls and roof system
• Inspection  by building dept
• As the area is made secure ,from weather, and outside elements the new space can be opened up to the existing space
• Rough Electric work
• Rough Plumbing work
• Insulation
• Sheetrock tape and spackle
• Finish electrical work
• Finish plumbing work

After the new space is built each project will take its own course. This is where the labor is carefully chosen based on their abilities and expertise to bring the project to completion.

What you need to consider when planning an alteration

Before

Placing Module

After

One of Alure Home Improvements qualified, experienced new home or addition designers will come to your home and discuss the options that are available to you, based on your family needs, age and construction of the home, size of the property, building requirements within your municipality and a few other important factors.

After an inspection of the homes mechanical systems and basic structure of the home, through discussion and a presentation of possible ideas a concept for the project will be established. Once that concept is agreed upon, an architect comes to the home with the designer to discuss the project details, lend his opinions and to verify all field measurements and to document the structure of the house and the planned changes. We are then able to bring the architects elevations of the proposed changes to our 8000 square foot showroom and create a digital image of your new home on a large screen to show you how the renovation will look. This is an excellent communication tool that allows you make decisions on the final product. It allows us to create the “picture perfect” version of the renovation of your new home and communicate those details to all who will be involved in making the concept become a reality.

At this point, the architect’s plans are reviewed and refined to show the changes that our discussions have brought up. Lastly, a final set of plans are drawn up that reflect the final project. After that is reviewed, those plans are used to apply for permits at the local municipality.

Get started today with a free, no obligation design consultation or call 877-44-ALURE (877-442-5873).

FAQ NEW CONSTRUCTION

Q: What’s the difference between On-Site Construction & Modular Construction?
A: On-Site construction is traditional construction done right on the premises. Modular or Off-Site construction is done in a very similar fashion but the construction takes place in a factory setting, usually in Pennsylvania in a controlled environment, where the work conditions are optimum, labor rates are lower, and materials can be purchased in bulk. Lumber is stored indoors and weather is not a factor. Generally, the quality of off-site construction far surpasses that of on-site. On-Site does have one huge advantage. Some areas of the home are highly detailed and personal such as kitchens, bathrooms, sometimes flooring and decorating. On-site construction offers more customization in those areas and many more product options.

Q: What is Alure System Build?
A: Alure System Build is a systemized process that combines the advantages of Off-Site modular construction with the flexibility of on-site work for the best results. You work with an Alure trained professional to design you extension or new home and determine what portion of the work should be done off site and on. Almost every modular project will include site work, but not all site construction will included modular as some projects will not derive much benefit from off-site modular construction.

Q: How much does it cost to build new?
A: Every project is different, but there are some guidelines you can go by. Though projects are not priced by square footage, often customers and contractors will use a square foot price for a quick reference number. The larger the project the lower the square foot price due to simple economies of scale. The project details will have the biggest effect on the cost per square foot. Kitchens and baths tend to be the most expensive part of the home, so the more space you assign to them the higher the overall cost. Also, first floor work requires a foundation and sometimes a roof where second floor only a roof. A basic extension or new home usually starts around $100-125 per square foot though it rarely ends up at that price range. Most new construction projects end up costing between $150-225 per SF. High end projects can very often cost over $300 per SF.

Q: How would I know the limitations on how big an extension or a new home I can build?
A: There are many limitations by the building department on how far you can build from the property lines. Just because the house is a certain distance from the property line now does not mean that you can build that close again. As set back requirements change, “pre-existing, non-conforming” conditions are exempt, but any new structure must meet current requirements. Variance hearings are granted to determine if you can build outside of the building department requirements. Other limitations include height restrictions, lot coverage limits, septic system requirements where applicable, and much more. When working with an Alure Construction Consultant, he or she will conduct a feasibility study on the property to determine what can be built and whether or not a variance hearing is likely required. Building department requirements vary tremendously between localities and change often. Alure makes every effort to keep up with the requirements and adhere to them, but can not be responsible for approval or smooth flow through the permit process.

Q: At what point does it make sense to knock down the house and re-build instead of remodeling and adding on?
A: This question has to be dealt with on an individual basis. When most of the house is being remodeled and space is being added, it will probably cost the same or less to re-build. There are advantages and disadvantages to both. Advantages of building new often include more design flexibility, lower cost, less down time, better quality construction, Energy Star rebates, and lower energy costs. Disadvantages often include higher cost, different property tax rate, and longer approval process. You should discuss your specific options, advantages and disadvantages with a qualified construction consultant prior to deciding.

Q: Do I need to hire an Architect first or should I look for a contractor?
A: At Alure, we believe that the contractor and the architect should work together. We handle most of the design and specifications in-house and work with a registered licensed Architect to ensure structural compliance as well as utilize their design skills as a resource. This helps control design cost. Very often an Architect is hired to design a project that is never built because no contractor can build it for the budget. Architects make their living designing and selling their plans, and though most of them are very good at it, they take no responsibility to ensure that they project can be built for a pre-determined budget.

Q: How do I select all of the products?
A: Alure has an 8,000 square foot design center, one of the largest residential kitchen & bath designer team in the country, exterior designers, and software programs to make the selection process a pleasurable experience. You will be able to see a picture of your home in its proper setting and select the product and colors of the exterior right on a 50″ plasma screen using an exclusive photo layering program. We utilize Chief Architect to design the space, furnish it, and show it not only in floor plan form, but virtual reality views that make it very easy for any home owner to visualize the interior design. And we use specialized kitchen and bath design software to generate detailed 3D drawings that allow you the homeowner to not only see how it will look, but decide where to put your pots, pans, and spices. This is one area where Alure always shines. We help make the process much easier and put you in control.

Q: Is modular construction anything like Pre-Fab homes or trailer homes?
A: No! Pre-Fab and Trailer homes are perceived to be low quality homes because they typically are. Modular construction uses the same techniques as traditional on-site construction but is built to a higher standard and under a controlled environment. Also, since most modular construction for our area is built in Pennsylvania, and is shipped anywhere in the North Eastern USA, every home or extension meets the strictest building code of any of the states they serve.

Q: What should I look for in a contractor?
A: The most important attributes of a good, reputable contractor are:

• Been in business for a while under the same company name
• Has a good rating with BBB and Consumer Affairs
• Has a physical place of business
• Has the resources to handle the project even if things go wrong
• Courteous service that doesn’t make you feel like you have to fight for attention
• Warranty on the work they do and the material they install
• Is able to help you through the whole process including, layout/design, product selection, project management and permit procurement where required
• Carries a substantial amount of liability insurance and worker’s compensation insurance for every person that will be working in your home

How would you like to brighten your life…permanently?

You could if you’re the lucky winner in the 2010 Owens Corning Brighten Your Life Giveaway! The winner will receive a beautiful, professionally installed, Owens Corning™ SunSuites® Sunroom. With an Owens Corning™ SunSuites® Sunroom you get:

• The only durable and beautiful fiber glass sunroom available
• Energy Star® rated fiber glass windows and doors that resist warping, corrosion, rotting, or cracking
• The ability to paint your room – inside and out – to match your home perfectly
• Quick and clean installation that takes only a few days
• Our unique Lifetime Limited Warranty**

So instead of dreaming about lounging in your own sunny paradise, make it a reality! There’s no obligation, so enter now!

Sign up for the Brighten Your Life Giveaway!

The fiberglass construction of Owens Corning™ SunSuites® Sunrooms plays an important part in its strength, efficiency and comfort. The other key component is the new Solace® IG-366 Glass.

Solace® IG-366 Glass is the ideal balance of solar heat control and high visibility. Its secret lies in a special transparent coating on the glass.

In addition, Solace® IG-366 Glass blocks 95% of the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays from entering your SunSuites® Sunroom. That means there is less potential for fading of carpet, curtains, blinds, furniture, and accessories.You can’t get those comfort and efficiency qualities from standard clear glass.And, those are just a few other reasons why Owens Corning™ SunSuites® Sunrooms are your best buy for strength, energy efficiency and comfort.

The coating reduces heat gain during the spring and summer to keep things cool, and help save on your utility bill.

In the fall and winter, the glass helps insulates you from the dropping outside temperatures. All while ensuring your clear,untinted vision of the outside environment.

In addition, Solace® IG-366 Glass blocks 95% of the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays from entering your SunSuites® Sunroom. That means there is less potential for fading of carpet, curtains, blinds, furniture, and accessories.

You can’t get those comfort and efficiency qualities from standard clear glass.

And, those are just a few other reasons why Owens Corning™ SunSuites® Sunrooms are your best buy for strength, energy efficiency and comfort.

Be the Envy of Your Neighbors

The Advantex® Fiberglass Structural Technology increases the strength and durability of Solace® Windows making them much stronger than non-reinforced vinyl windows. And by combining the strength of fiberglass with vinyl’s easy maintenance, Solace® Windows deliver, in virtually any weather condition.

Solace® Windows are tested to withstand some of nature’s most extreme events. When we test our windows, we subject them to structural load conditions that simulate wind speeds of over 190 miles per hour, a force even greater than a Category 5 Hurricane or an F3 Tornado.

Solace® PINK Insulated Windows offer higher resistance to heat and cold providing you with added comfort.

Who wants to replace their existing windows only to find that they have actually lost a portion of their view in the process? Our window design offers up to 27% more viewing area than typical replacement windows. So when you replace your windows with Solace® Windows you’ll benefit from today’s technology without compromising your wonderful view.

Solace® Windows are designed with the beauty of American architecture in mind. With a patented coved and contoured window design not only will your windows beautifully frame your view from inside your home, but your neighbors will envy the look of your home from the curb.

Until now, you only had three real choices when looking to add a new living space: an all aluminum, an aluminum and vinyl sunroom or an expensive “stick-built” addition.

Now, you can enjoy an innovative product that solves the shortfalls of traditional sunroom building methods with an Owens Corning™ SunSuites® Sunroom.

Our sunrooms offer:

• More dimensionally stable structure than traditional sunroom materials
• Design and decorating flexibility
• Short construction schedule
• Less maintenance
• Energy efficiency

What more could you ask for? Read details below of how SunSuites® Sunrooms compare to vinyl/aluminum sunrooms and stick-built additions.

Fiberglass-constructed SunSuites® Sunrooms offer a number of advantages compared to both stick-built and vinyl or aluminum sunrooms. Let’s look at those advantages in detail.

SunSuites® Sunrooms vs. vinyl and aluminum sunrooms

• Unique fiberglass frame stands up to 120 mph wind speeds, more than some traditional aluminum and vinyl frames
• Features low–maintenance fiberglass windows and doors that resist corrosion, warping, rotting and cracking
• Endless design possibilities. It can be painted – inside and out – unlike vinyl and aluminum sunrooms
• Easily customizable to blend in with your home
• The only exterior living space backed by Owens Corning expertise in building materials and a Lifetime Limited Warranty*

SunSuites® Sunrooms vs. “stick-built” additions

• Can be much more cost–effective
• Installs in weeks rather than 3-6 months, meaning less mess and disruption to your life during installation
• Cleaner construction – less dust or construction debris than drywall
• Flexible design for future reconfiguration
• The only exterior living space backed by Owens Corning expertise in building materials and a Lifetime Limited Warranty*

Nothing has gone unmissed – the best windows available in sunrooms today come in your SunSuites® Sunroom: featuring our new Solace® IG-366 Glass. Solace® IG-366 lets you enjoy your SunSuites® Sunroom and allows the beauty of the outdoors to be enjoyed from the comfort of your home.

Learn more about Solace® IG-366 performance features.

Things to consider when adding a sunroom

Before

After

Before

After

Before

After

Durability – What are the pros and cons of fiberglass vs. aluminum & vinyl? The all fiberglass Owens Corning SunSuite Sunroom is the most durable product available, built to withstand winds up to 150 mph.

Project Management – Every sunroom project with Alure has a dedicated production supervisor for the duration of the entire project. Our dedicated and trained installation teams are familiar with all up to date products and installation techniques and town codes. As a client you have the ability to reach out while we are on your project 7 days a week for your convenience, including access to our 24 hour emergency hotline should a situation arise on you project. We handle everything from design, permits, to installation, to service and everything in between. We’ll show you other completed sunrooms we’ve done, and help customize the space to best suit your family’s needs. Your designer will even take you to see another sunroom we finished in your area.

How would you plan to use the sunroom? Additional year round living space or just seasonal, each have different code requirements depending on your town. A gym, home office, playroom, living room, etc. We’ll show you plenty of other sunroom ideas to help you visualize your options. We can even take you to see some other Sunroom projects we’ve completed in your area.

Skylight – should I get a skylight? Are they dangerous?

Energy Efficiency – Unlike Aluminum, Fiberglass does not conduct cold so even when it’s chilly outside, you’ll enjoy the comfort of your Fiberglass Sunsuite inside.

Warranty – Our dedicated installation teams are up to date on products and installation techniques. As a client, for your convenience, you have the ability to reach out while we are on your project 7 days a week. Access to our 24 hour emergency hotline should a situation arise on your project. The backing and support of the highest quality manufacturers, means peace of mind for you.

Customization – Can I customize to match my house? – The Owens Corning Sunsuite is custom ordered to provide you extra living space that’s fully paintable to match your home, which can also include roofing shingles.

Do I have the room to install a Sunroom in the location I want to put it? Look around at your neighbors to see if anyone has added a sunroom or extension on to their home and if so, there is a good chance your property can accommodate one, also, to be sure we would need to inspect the property.

Do I need a permit to install a Sunroom? Yes, as in any construction, a building permit is required by each town. We will handle the permit process for you.

Why an Owens Corning Fiberglass sunroom? Fiberglass is 21st century technology and is 100 % paintable. Fiberglass outperforms other aluminum sunrooms. Should you ever decide to heat it will be less costly to do so.

Can I put electric in my new Sunroom? All electric will be run internally, within its construction for an aesthetically pleasing look.

Can I use my room year round? Yes, there are many ways to heat and or cool your sunroom. You may even consider a fireplace, mini split or a heated fan.

Why a sunroom and not a conventional addition? Typically taxes are less than stick built construction; installation time is minimized in most cases to a week to install as compared to months with an addition. Sunrooms provide wall to wall glass for a panoramic view of your property.

What size of room are you considering? Try measuring a room where you spend time in now to get a good idea of size.

I have an existing deck can I build on that? This will depend on many structural issues. Usually we can re-support to accommodate any short falls.

Does the Glass matter? No matter where you live, Solace® Windows can provide a high performing insulated glass system that will help to save you money heating and cooling your home. Some window brands utilize single layer Low-E coating structures. Solace® Windows insulated glass systems incorporate multiple layers of heat reflective metallic coatings into the panes of glass. It’s one more advantage that Solace® Windows has over other competitor products.

An Alure Sunsuite Specialist can help you with all of the above questions and information and help you design your new room. Alure’s designer will show you prior projects we’ve done, and help customize the space to best suit your family’s needs We handle everything from design, permits, to installation, to service and everything in between.

Get started today with a free, no obligation design consultation or call 877-44-ALURE (877-442-5873).

FAQ SUNSUITE® SUNROOM

Q: What advantages does a SunSuites® Sunroom have over aluminum/vinyl sunrooms?
A: Its unique fiberglass frame stands up to higher wind speeds than traditional aluminum and vinyl frames. It can also be painted inside and out. You can really understand the difference when you can see and feel a sample. Call today for a product demonstration.

Q: How does a SunSuites® Sunroom compare to a traditional “stick-built” addition?
A: SunSuites® Sunrooms are professionally installed in less time and with less disruption than “stick-built” additions. They can also be more cost-effective than additions built with traditional materials and methods. Manufactured in a factory setting, it is then brought to your home for assembly.

Q: What is the benefit of having fiberglass windows?
A: Fiberglass window frames provide strong dimensionally stable windows that defy the elements and the ravages of time. The secret lies in a remarkable engineered material from Owens Corning, the company that wrote the book on advanced composites.

Q: What type of glass is used in the windows of a SunSuites® Sunroom?
A: SunSuites® Sunrooms feature high performance insulated glass Energy Star® rated that helps keep heat out when it’s hot and warmth in when it’s cold, for energy savings of 20-40%*

Q: Can I customize my SunSuites® Sunroom?
A: Yes. Customize it to match your home’s dimensions and roofing shingles with four color selections to match your siding, or you can choose to paint it on the interior and exterior. A SunSuites® Sunroom allows for limitless design possibilities to express your own style.

Q: What is the warranty on SunSuites® Sunrooms?
A: Every Owens Corning™ SunSuites® Sunroom is backed by a Lifetime Limited Warranty**.

Q: How much does it cost?
A: Each SunSuites® Sunroom is unique, but compared to other remodeling projects, adding a sunroom can be very cost effective and offers you a great return on your investment.

Algae growth causes a dark discoloration on roofs. The algae is usually brown to black in color which results in a streaked, dirty looking rooftop. It can be mistaken for soot, dirt or tree droppings, which typically produce only localized discoloration. It’s caused by the growth of air-borne algae which deposits on your roof. The good news is that algae growth does not affect the service life of your roofing material. It occurs most often in warm, humid climates such as the Southeast (where algae-resistant shingles are available).

Recommendations
Discoloration of roofs caused by fungus or algae is difficult to remove, but may be lightened by spraying a diluted solution of chlorine bleach, trisodium phosphate, and water onto the roof. Solutions range from one cup TSP, one gallon bleach and four gallons of water, to one cup TSP and 2.5 gallons each of bleach and water. This solution can then be rinsed from the roof in 10 to 15 minutes. Do not scrub. Scrubbing will loosen and remove granules. After spraying be sure to thoroughly flush the roof and the greenery around the home (grass, bushes and shrubs) with water. The effectiveness of this type of cleaning may only be temporary, and the discoloration may recur. High pressure washing is not recommended due to the possibility of removing granules, thereby shortening the life of the Roofing System.

For a more permanent solution, re-roof with Owens Corning Algae-Resistant Shingles. They are specifically designed to inhibit most algae growth for extended periods of time and are backed by our strongest product and algae resistance warranties* available to homeowners.

*See actual Algae-Resistant shingle warranty for details. Algae-Resistant products are not available in all areas. Contact your local Owens Corning supplier for more information.

Causes

• Improper installation on a new roof
• Drying and cracking on an old roof
• Dented by improper nailing
• Settling of the structure

Recommendations
In most cases it is only necessary to remove and replace the flashing and shingles around the damaged area.

Causes

• Improperly applied felt
• Wrinkled underlayment
• Roof deck movement
• Spacers not used in between roof deck boards
• Poor roof ventilation
• New shingles applied over old, rough shingles

Recommendations

• Allow moisture to escape the Roofing System. This can be a slow process and could take until the following spring. Once the Roofing System reaches the proper moisture content, the roof should lay flat and the buckling problem should not return.
• Remove the shingles that are affected. Cut the wrinkle in the felt and replace the shingles.
• Add ventilation to the attic space. The minimum requirement is one square foot of net free vent area per 150 square feet of attic floor space if a vapor retarder is not present. If a vapor retarder is present, the amount of required ventilation can be reduced to one square foot of net free vent area per 300 square feet of attic floor space.
• Consult the services of a professional. Make sure to apply shingles in accordance with the shingle manufacturer’s recommendations.

Causes

• High nails
• Lack of back coating
• Under-saturation of asphalt felt in organic shingles
• Lack of ventilation
• Improper number of fasteners

Recommendations

• Check location and number of fasteners
• Added roof ventilation can often correct

Causes

• Moisture in the shingle

Recommendations

• If the blisters break open revealing the asphalt, the affected shingles should be replaced.
• Consult with the manufacturer of the shingles.

Causes

• Improper fastening
• Exposure to high winds

Recommendations
Replace shingles which have completely blown off. For shingles with tabs blowing up and down, hand seal the shingles with an asphalt plastic cement, commonly referred to as flashing cement. This roofing cement must comply with ASTM D4586 — Type I or Type II which is the standard specifically for asbestos-free asphalt plastic roof cement. (Some products meeting this standard may involve hazardous materials. This bulletin does not purport to address all of the safety and health problems associated with the use of materials meeting this specification. It is the responsibility of the user to observe the safety and health practices as determined by the manufacturer of the product and stated on the label, instructions and Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS).

To hand seal, lift each tab of a 3-tab shingle and apply two spots of the cement under each tab. Each spot should be approximately the size of a quarter and placed 1″ to 2″ from each end of the tab and near the bottom. Laminated shingles require 4 spots of cement per shingle. After application, press the tab down firmly to start the bond. Be careful not to apply the cement too close to the bottom of the tab. This causes the cement to squeeze out when the tab is pressed down.

Causes
Spots are caused by leaks in the roof.

Recommendations

• Check attic for leaks in deck.
• Check chimney and vents for cracks in flashing.
• Check rafters for leaks that “travel” away from original source.
• Check eaves for water backing up from ice dams.
• Check roof for damaged shingles.

Causes
Rotting is caused by absorption of moisture by the mat at the core of the shingle. This is a common problem with organic-based shingles.

Recommendations
Replace with Owens Corning Fiberglas® mat shingles.

Causes
Normally a certain number of granules will be loose, especially after application. These granules are called “riders” and are a normal result of the manufacturing process. Granule loss does not affect the service life of the shingles unless granules can be seen missing on the surface of the shingles, thus exposing the asphalt or Fiberglas® mat.

Recommendations
On aging shingles, missing granules indicate a need for replacement.

Even the most beautiful and high-performance roof shingles can fail without the proper accessories. Owens Corning Roofing offers an array of ventilation, waterproofing and other accessories that complement the high quality of our shingles – while helping to ensure a long, healthy life for your new roof.

Rapid Flow Gutter Drainage Protection

New RapidFlow® Gutter Drainage Protection keeps leaves, twigs and other debris from clogging your gutters, while allowing water to flow freely.

• Clog-free – unique profile and open-celled design promote water flow with no stagnation; product is backed by a five-year “clog-free” warranty.*
• Stays in place – fits snugly inside the gutter even during extreme weather conditions and withstands winds up to 110 MPH.
• Protects the roof – allows for improved water runoff as part of a healthy roofing system. Clogged gutters can contribute to ice damming, which can damage shingles and the roof deck.
• Reduces maintenance. Increases Safety. Once installed, it’s virtually maintenance-free, and cleaning trips up and down the ladder are few and far between.

Proper ventilation ensures a healthier, more durable roof

Typical household activities can wreak havoc on a roof and attic if proper roof ventilation is not provided:

• In the summer, heat build-up encourages the premature aging and cracking of wood and other roofing materials. Unwanted heat also can transfer back down into living areas – which reduces energy efficiency.
• In cold weather, warm air generated by laundry, showers, dish washing and cooking can linger in the house and cause moisture build-up.

The only way to combat these problems is with a balanced Top of the House® roofing system. That means it’s important to have proper ventilation, plus the appropriate amount of attic insulation to maximize performance.

In a balanced system, wind blowing over the ridge creates negative pressure that draws the warmer air out of the attic. Replacement air then enters through the undereave or soffit vents, bathes the underside of the roof, and exits at the ridge cap through ridge, roof or gable vents. Even without wind, the natural convection action of rising warm air maintains a continuous air flow along the underside of the roof.

Ultimately, proper ventilation — along with attic insulation — helps maintain a comfortable temperature inside a home, increase energy efficiency, prevent moisture damage and contribute to the longevity of a roof.

Roof Ventilation Benefits

Allows outside air to flow naturally upward and out of attic.

• Promotes a cooler, drier attic.
• Helps prevent moisture from becoming trapped in insulation, structural wood, shingles and roof deck.
• Helps prevent rotting, mildew, drywall damage, peeling paint and warped siding.
• Provides year-round performance for consistent ventilation without energy consumption.

Ventilation is an important component of Owens Corning’s Complete Roofing System. These Owens Corning ventilation products will help prevent damage and premature aging caused by moisture in the winter and excess heat in the summer.

WeatherLock Self-Sealing Ice & Water Barrier Products

Your roofing system must include protection from wind-driven rain. This is accomplished by installing Ice & Water Barrier directly beneath the shingles. Owens Corning offers WeatherLock® Self-Sealing Ice & Water Barrier Products and our new Fiberglas™ Reinforced Felt Underlayment product. All are designed for both new construction and reroofing projects.

Also use WeatherLock® Self-Sealing Ice & Water Barrier Products on areas of the roof where water has a tendency to collect or flow. These areas include valleys, vents, chimneys and skylights. It’s important to prevent water collection on a roof because that can cause an ice dam to form. This ridge of ice causes water to back up and sit on a roof, instead of properly draining off. This water can work its way under the roof covering and flow into the attic—and cause water damage to a home’s interior. To find out more about Ice & Water Barrier Products, click here.

Since 1977, Owens Corning has been a leading manufacturer of shingles and accessories for the residential roofing market. Though best known for ourPINK® Fiberglas insulation, Owens Corning is also a leader in the roofing market. In fact, according to a Hanley-Wood Publishing survey of 3,400 builders, Owens Corning Roofing products were voted “the most recognizable brand in the market.” Since Owens Corning invented glass fiber during the 1970s, it has become the material standard for shingles, and is used by most shingle manufacturers. The fiberglass composition of roof shingles plays an important role in protecting homes from moisture and other weather-related elements. We take great pride in our roofing shingles and accessories and we believe that we have a great deal of responsibility to homeowners. That’s why we make sure every Owens Corning shingle meets your high expectations. Every shingle we make combines consistent quality with long-lasting beauty and maximum protection. Performance is at the heart of every Owens Corning roofing product.

• Every Owens Corning shingle line features:
• Fiberglas® mat that adds weather protection, greater fire resistance and longer life.
• Weathering-grade asphalt that holds the granules on the shingle and protects the roof from water.
• Colorful mineral granules that help reflect the sun’s rays while adding beauty and style to the roof.
• Heat-activated adhesive strip that bonds shingles into a single, watertight unit.
• Class A Fire Rating, the highest available for residential applications.
• Wind Resistance Rating for winds and gusts up to 110 mph depending on the shingle style selected.
• Limited product warranties ranging from 20 to 50 years, depending on shingle style.