Signs To Look For:

1. Leaking In Attic

After experiencing a strong storm or wind-driven rain, it is important to check your attic for signs of a roof leak/leaks. If you are noticing leakage in your attic, this could be a sign that your roof does not have adequate shingle underlayment or could possibly have an issue with flashing deterioration. Underlayment is meant to be the roof’s waterproof layer; if it is damaged or improperly installed, it allows water to seep through the roof deck, which could potentially seep into your home. Flashing is the aluminum or steel used over roof joints like chimneys or pipes and can cause many issues if they are deteriorated, and they must be replaced. These issues can lead to severe water damage and mold growth if left untreated.

2. Stains on Interior Ceilings and Walls: Mold or Mildew Growth

If you are noticing stains or mold growth inside your home, it could be a sign you may have inadequate or faulty shingle underlayment that is allowing water to seep into your home. Another culprit could be a home with inadequate attic ventilation, which causes excessive moisture conditions or high humidity that mold or mildew growth will thrive in. Some common signs of this are condensation, musty odors, and peeling paint.

3. Blistering or Peeling Interior and Exterior Paint

When paint begins to peel off, it is likely caused by trapped moisture in your home due to excessive temperatures or high humidity from poor attic ventilation. The air in your attic needs to be able to flow freely from the soffit to the ridge to reduce humidity. It is important that your home has vents in areas like your kitchen and your bathroom. Dryers should also vent to the outside. To fix issues causing peeling paint and prevent further costly damage, it is crucial to repair leaks, improve ventilation, and take preventative measures to control humidity in your home.

4. Exterior Decay, Sheathing and/or Siding

Sheathing is a structural layer applied to the exterior of a home’s walls to act as a base for siding. Siding is the exterior finish that covers the sheathing, providing a protective layer. Again, poor attic ventilation is often a possible cause, but any condition that is resulting in your home having excess moisture can contribute to exterior decay. One way to combat this problem is by placing a vapor barrier between the insulation and the inside of the house to reduce the amount of moisture that goes into a wall and to help moisture escape from the wall.

5. Missing, Cracked or Curled Shingles

Shingles with curling edges, cracks, and missing granules are a good sign that your roof has reached the end of its lifespan. If you notice that your shingles appear dry or practically break when touched, it is also an indicator that it is time to invest in a new roof.

6. Dark, “Dirty Looking” Areas on Your Roof

If you notice any dark or “dirty looking” areas on your roof, it could mean that your roof has vegetation, fungus, mold, algae growth, or that the protective granules on your shingles have been lost. These issues can typically be caused by overhanging trees, flat roofs with poor drainage, ample shade, or clogged gutters, and they are most prevalent in the spring and summer when there is a lot of rain and humidity. While dark or “dirty looking” areas on your roof do not necessarily mean the roof needs to be replaced, these stains can drastically decrease the curb appeal of your roof. Cleaning your roof shingles is an option, but it can sometimes shorten their lifespan. Luckily, StainGuard® protection is available on many GAF Shingles.

7. Excessive Energy Cost

A possible cause of higher cooling costs could be insufficient attic ventilation, requiring the cooling system to run excessively. In warm weather, inadequate ventilation will trap hot air in the attic, causing air-conditioning systems to work harder, or leaving your home’s interior hotter and less comfortable. In both hot and cold weather, moisture in the attic can become trapped and condensed on the rafters if it’s not insulated properly. This moisture can drip down onto the insulation and reduce its effectiveness, potentially increasing energy costs.

These seven signs are helpful to keep an eye out for on your roof. Checking on your home preemptively is important because it is easier to catch an issue earlier on. If you notice anything on your roof that needs professional attention, please feel free to call Renaissance Roofing, Inc. at 734-495-0996, and we would be happy to help.

GAF is North America’s largest roofing manufacturer, and only GAF Master Elite(R) Contractors can compete for its residential President’s Club Award. To qualify for this award, a residential roofing contractor must demonstrate an exceptional level of excellence in their business, especially in the areas of Installation Excellence, Consumer Protection, and Installer Training.

1. Test Heating System:

It is extremely important during the winter to have a working heating system that you know you can rely on. Make a note to change your filters and test your heating to assure that your thermostats and furnace are working properly. It is much easier for plumbers or HVAC experts to work on your system in the spring or fall rather than the winter.

2. Inspect Roof:

While a professional roof inspection is the most effective way to ensure you will not have problems with your roof, below are some signs homeowners should look out for:

• Loose shingles that could be easily knocked off your roof, as well as missing shingles and empty spots on the roof.

• Damaged flanges/seals around electrical conduits, chimneys, skylights and exhaust fans.

• Leaves, or other debris that have built up on your roof that traps moisture, making it easy for ice, moss, or plants to damage the roof.

• Old antennas or satellite dishes can loosen or deteriorate and become dangerous over time.

3. Clear Gutters & Downspouts:

Cleaning out gutters and downspouts will ensure that they are not clogged before winter. This can prevent ice storms from allowing water and debris to collect on your roof, as well as prevent ice dams from forming.

4. Seal Exterior of Home:

Make sure that the exposed wood and trim on the outside of your home is properly caulked, painted, and sealed. Noticing these problems as soon as possible can help ensure that the wood will not begin to rot.

5. Inspect Chimneys & Fireplaces:

Your chimney can be a source of cold air leaks, which is why it is crucial to examine it before winter begins. The most effective way to examine your chimney would be to hire a professional to ensure your fireplace and chimney are working well. However, below is a list of maintenance items homeowners should look out for:

• Clear any obstructions in the chimney.

• Look for loose bricks or eroded mortar on the outside of the chimney.

• Clean bricks that have soot or other buildup.

• Schedule any needed repairs to ensure that smoke is escaping safely and efficiently from the fireplace.

6. Prepare Sprinkler Systems, Hoses, & Gardening Equipment:

It is important to drain your outdoor spigots, hoses, water lines, and sprinkler systems before the temperatures drop below freezing. The outdoor water faucets should be turned off for the winter, and any residual water or debris must be blown out of the water lines. Also, make sure that any garden tools that may have water in them are drained out. Outdoor items such as lawn mowers, leaf blowers, clippers, etc., should be stored somewhere inside to extend their life and protect them from the cold. These steps will help prevent damage from water expanding when frozen.

7. Prepare Snow Equipment & Emergency Supplies:

Make a checklist of the snow equipment you may need, such as gloves, boots, shovels, defrosters, salt, snow blowers, etc. Candles and emergency back-up power should be stored in an accessible place in case the power goes out. Obtaining some type of alternative heat source in case of an emergency is always a good idea as well.

8. Test Carbon Monoxide & Smoke Detectors:

It is extremely important to check that your smoke detectors are working properly because winter heating is known to be one of the biggest causes of fires. The winter season also poses a greater risk of carbon monoxide buildup in your home due to windows being sealed tightly. Make sure you have detectors installed where necessary and regularly change the batteries when needed.

9. Trim Trees & Clean Yard:

If you have damaged trees or limbs around your home, it is best to trim them to ensure there are no risky branches or limbs that could fall and create damaging or dangerous situations. It is much easier and less dangerous to do this before the snow falls, as you can safely climb a ladder and handle equipment without your hands freezing! Homeowners could also hire a professional tree care company to handle this if needed.

The fall is a good time to ensure your lawn is prepared for the cold seasons by taking actions such as:

• Rake dead plants and leaves from the yard.

• Ensure your lawn is aerated.

• Take advantage of the spring and fall to grow and fertilize your grass if needed.

10. Store Outdoor Furniture & Maintain Paved Walkways/Driveways:

Winterize your pavement to prevent damage and avoid expensive repairs. Use a patch kit to fix any small cracks you notice when inspecting your pavement, and repair mortar between pavers.

Move any furniture that you are worried about being damaged during the winter indoors to maximize its lifespan. Despite outdoor furniture being more durable to weather conditions than indoor furniture, it does not necessarily mean it will hold up against ice and snow. It is best to store outdoor furniture somewhere safe and dry, like a garage or shed.

11. Insulate Windows, Doors, Attic & Basement:

Look throughout your home to check for any trouble spots where there are drafts and air leaks. Also, ensure that all windows and doors have functioning weatherstripping, which will help improve your home’s heating system. Ensuring your attic is well-insulated can help to limit hot air escaping from your home, which saves you money and keeps your home warmer.

Inspecting your basement’s foundation is also important to ensure that it is properly insulated, preventing any cracks or other issues from becoming worse with freezing temperatures. Check for moisture, cracks, and access points to the basement that may not be efficiently insulated.

Following these steps is a great way to save money, maintain your home, and remain warm in the winter season!

What is a Skylight?

Skylights can vary – some are made of glass and others are made of plastic. They come in many different shapes, sizes, and installation types. In short, skylights are a window installed on a roof or ceiling that allows natural light to enter your home.

Velux Background

With Renaissance Roofing Inc’s 30 years in business, Velux has been our only source for skylights. Velux has been around since 1941, totaling over 80 years of business. They work globally with sales and manufacturing operations in more than 40 countries all over the world. Two of the many roof-related window solutions they offer are skylights and sun tunnels. These skylight systems are available in fixed and venting models, as well as in curb-mount, deck-mount, and self-flashed installation configurations. The venting models of skylights are also available in solar-powered, electric, and manual!

The Complete Velux Skylight System – Skylight Options Consists of:

• Velux Glass Unit Skylight

These unit skylights are industry-leading and have many different glass options available.

• Solar-Powered Room Darkening White Skylight Shade

This solar-powered shade offers total light control, increasing the skylight’s energy performance by up to 45%. This is standard on most skylights that Renaissance Roofing, Inc installs.

• Pre-Paired Remote Controls for each Skylight & Shade

Factory-paired remote controls for shades are straightforward to set up, have easy operation, and come included in most skylight systems. This remote control is used to open and close the skylights.

• Standard Safety Glass

Laminated glass with low e-protective coating that’s dual-sealed and injected with argon glass for extra protection.

• Rain Sensors

Sensors that close the skylight automatically at the first signs of water.

• Insect Screens

The skylights come with insect screens made to prevent bugs and debris from entering your home through your skylight.

• Weathertight Guarantee/Compatible Velux Flashing Kits

Velux Flashing has a weathertight seal around deck and curb mount skylight systems, which is required to qualify for their 10-year installation warranty.

Velux offers a warranty to provide peace of mind so that homeowners can be confident that their Velux Skylight system with a flashing kit will withstand a variety of harsh weather conditions. The warranty provides 10 years of workmanship protection backed by a patented three layers of water protection on deck-mount and curb-mount skylights. The three layers of protection are the skylight’s pre-attached seal, adhesive underlayment, and engineered flashing. All three of these components come together to provide a watertight guarantee.

Solar Tax Credit

Another one of the great perks of installing a Velux Solar Skylight is that it qualifies for the Residential Clean Energy Property Credit, which would provide a tax credit of 30% of the installed cost of the skylight. Despite most skylights being eligible for this credit, Renaissance Roofing, Inc. is not a legal or tax advisor and always recommends reaching out to your personal tax advisor for advice on qualifying for this credit.

IRS Fact Sheet Residential Clean Energy Property Credit

Below is a snippet from the IRS Tax Credit Fact Sheet published in 2022. Tax credits have to be approved by congress and can change from year to year. At the time of this blog, the tax credit is valid through December 31st, 2025.

Upgrade your home today with a beautiful new skylight system to add more light and clean energy to your home! For more information on Velux Skylights, visit Velux’s website at https://www.veluxusa.com/

Renaissance Roofing, Inc. has partnered with GAF since 2008. GAF was originally founded as the Standard Paint Company, which was established in 1886, making it one of the oldest names in the roofing business. In the early 20th century, GAF started focusing on roofing materials. With over 100 years of advancement within GAF, they have become one of North America’s largest roofing manufacturers. GAF has 30 locations across the United States and over 4,800 employees. They use a strategic network of manufacturing facilities so they can assure that roofing materials for both residential and commercial properties arrive in the time and area that they are needed.

Today, 1 in 4 roofs in the United States are protected by GAF’s roofing materials. More homes and businesses in the United States choose GAF’s materials over any other product. They are known for offering high-quality innovative materials that homeowners across North America can attest to. Renaissance Roofing, Inc. has found that GAF tends to lead the industry with their products and innovations.

Why choose GAF Products?

There are many reasons that GAF products are considered the superior product in the roofing industry:

– Upstanding reputation and vast experience, providing peace of mind to homeowners.

– Continued research and development of their products to adapt and improve with technology as time continues.

– Wide variety of products for many roofing/home improvement needs.

– High-quality materials with strong durability to protect your home.

– Materials built to withstand harsh weather conditions for the varied weather climates across the Unites States.

– Strict quality control measures, ensuring that every product meets the standards of their customers.

– Comprehensive warranties that protect homeowners’ investments.

– All shingles are products that are manufactured in the USA.

GAF materials are also generally cost-effective and accessible, making them an easy choice for most homeowners. GAF shingles have advanced shingle protection technology that offers a longer lifespan and better weather protection over other roofing materials. GAF shingles are also built to be energy efficient and algae resistant, with reflective granules that help absorb heat and reduce energy cost as well as shingles that are especially resistant to staining and algae, allowing them to look better for longer than most other roofing products. With all these benefits and their vast reputation and experience, going with GAF products is a no-brainer.

GAF Contractor Certifications and Awards

When having your roof replaced, not only is it important to choose a product you can rely on, it is also important to choose a contractor that has certifications you can trust.

Renaissance Roofing, Inc. is proud to be a GAF Master Elite contractor and has won the GAF President’s Club award for 13 consecutive years since 2012. Less than half of Master Elite contractors meet the qualifications to achieve this status, and the contractor must show excellence in performance, reliability, and service. We have also received GAF’s triple excellence award for 18 years. For this award, the contractor must show excellence in GAF training, installation excellence, and consumer protection excellence. All our Renaissance Roofing, Inc. employees are steep slope certified by GAF and have met all the requirements for this certification.

Renaissance Roofing, Inc. has been chosen by GAF to begin offering solar shingle options on our proposals. GAF’s solar shingles are integrated into your roof and are unlike traditional rack-mounted shingles. GAF Solar is leading the way with energy shingles in our industry. Please call or visit our website for questions or to learn more.

If this hasn’t convinced you that GAF products are the right choice, call and get an estimate from Renaissance Roofing, Inc. With almost 30 years in the industry, we can provide comprehensive knowledge of why GAF is always our first choice.

Before the concept of a roof existed, pre-historic hunters and gatherers found safety and shelter in caves. It is believed that the first roofs to ever exist were made of wooly mammoth skin. This led to small settlements of huts built out of mammoth tusks and branches with skin and mud as the roof. Palmwood was also thought to be used in more tropical areas.

As we entered into 40,000 BC, we saw the arrival of thatch roofs made of leaves, palm trees, and forest debris. Although this was a step up from the prehistoric roofs, these thatch roofs were still not strong enough to withstand harsh weather conditions to protect homes and those living in them.

During the 19th century, we saw the arrival of new roofing materials emerging in different areas around the world, such as wood, clay tiles, and slate. The materials used for roofs during this time were very dependent on the natural resources available in each civilization and their geographical area.

Wood roofs were much more structurally sound than the thatch roofs made of trees and debris. Wood roofs were originally hand-split shingles made from trees that were native to the area. This wood was then smoothed and tapered with a draw knife to create a shingle. However, these wooden roofs were very prone to fires. Modern wood shake and cedar shake roofs, which have advanced from the initial hand-split wood shingles, are much less common today but can still be found in many areas around the world.

Another type of roof material that was often used in the past are clay tiles, which consist of natural harvested clay that is molded and baked at high temperatures. Slate from metamorphic rocks or natural stone was also derived from the sedimentary rock of volcanic ash, which was similarly molded into shingles.

While clay and slate roofs were prevalent during the early 19th century, they were only accessible to the wealthy. Therefore, most of the population was forced to rely on wood and straw roofs. Eventually, with industrialization playing a large role, clay and slate roofs became more accessible to the general population in an effort to prevent disastrous fires from destroying roofs.

Metal roofing originated the 18th century and was praised for its durability and resistance to fires. Metal roofing was made from aluminum, copper, stainless steel, zinc, and galvalume (most commonly made from stainless or galvalume steel today). Metal roofing was, however, extremely expensive and difficult to install and was mostly seen only on important buildings, such as temples and museums during this time.

The use of metal roofing saw an increase during the 19th century. However, it was still not very affordable and was often limited to more challenging rooflines. Even today, metal roofing remains the most expensive roofing system and is not affordable for a good percentage of our population.

Asphalt shingles are the typical shingle you see on most homes today, made of fiberglass or paper mat, asphalt, granules, sand or slag fines, and ceramic coated mineral granules. The first asphalt roofing structure was introduced by GAF in 1840, and the first asphalt permeated wool felts were introduced in the 1880s and were initially used as roll roofing. It wasn’t until 1903 that the first individual asphalt shingles were used in Grand Rapids Michigan! By cutting the material up into individual singles, this made the application easier and greatly improved the final look of the shingles. These individual cut asphalt shingles were believed to be developed by Henry Reynolds. In 1904, colored granule coating for asphalt rolls was introduced, allowing for different colors of asphalt roofs and adding to the aesthetic of homes.

In 1912, the first individual cut asphalt shingles were introduced to the market. Over the next century as science advanced, asphalt shingles and the application of asphalt shingles continued to evolve to be more durable, advanced, aesthetically pleasing and cutting edge to be what they finally are today. GAF played an enormous role in the advancement of asphalt shingles, and this is just one of the many reasons Renaissance Roofing, Inc. is happy to offer GAF products on every proposal!

Asphalt shingles were revolutionary for the roofing industry, and today they are the most common type of roof for residential homes. These shingles are relatively affordable compared to other types of material, easier to install, and extremely versatile. Asphalt shingles are also extremely effective at protecting your home and come in a variety of colors.

Solar shingles are a shingle that contains a photovoltaic cell that converts sunlight into electricity. Solar shingles first became available in 2005 and have been improving every year since. Solar shingles are different from solar panels, as they combine seamless solar roofing technology with traditional roofing. Michigan has just recently launched the revolutionary GAF Energy Timberline Solar™ Shingle, designed as a nailable shingle to the market. Renaissance Roofing, Inc, is proud to be solar certified and able to offer this to customers on our new roof proposals.

1. Roof Shingles

Roof shingles are the individual overlapping components that cover the roof. Common types of shingles include asphalt, wood, metal and slate. Renaissance Roofing, Inc. only installs asphalt shingles. As the outermost layer, shingles serve as your home’s first line of defense against harsh weather.

2. Flashing

Flashing is a thin material, often made of metal, installed around roof penetrations (such as chimneys, vents and skylights) to prevent water leakage. Flashing is another weatherproofing component that is placed in areas where water is likely to penetrate. It seals joints around your skylights, chimney, vents and wall abutments. Inadequate flashing can lead to leaks and water damage.

3. Underlayment

Underlayment is a water-resistant layer installed beneath the shingles to provide an additional barrier against moisture penetration – this would be the Deck Armor laid over the plywood sheeting. Deck Armor underlayment is another layer of protection against the damaging rain, wind and snow.

4. Soffit

Soffits are the underside of the roof overhang, typically located beneath the eaves. Soffits often contains vents to facilitate attic ventilation.

5. Fascia

Fascia boards are installed along the roof’s edge and provide a finished appearance. They also support the gutters.

6. Ridge

The ridge is the highest point of the roof, where two slopes meet. Ridge vents may also be installed to allow hot air to escape from the attic.

7. Eaves

Eaves are the lower edges of the roof that overhang the walls of the house. They help protect the exterior walls and foundation from water damage. Eaves also work to keep pests and insects out of your home.

8. Valley

A valley is the internal angle formed where two sloping roof sections meet. Special flashing is used to direct water away from these areas.

9. Roof Pitch

Roof pitch refers to the steepness of the roof slope, often expressed as a ratio or angle. It affects drainage and the type of roofing materials suitable for the roof.

10. Ice Dam

An ice dam forms when snow melts on the warmer sections of the roof and re-freezes at the colder eaves, creating a barrier that prevents proper drainage. This can lead to water infiltration and damage.

11. Trim

Trim is what seals joints and drip edges, keeping moisture from entering your home. It also improves the exterior visual appeal of the entire roof system by providing seamless transitions from slope to slope.

12. Chimney Cap

A chimney cap’s main purpose is to prevent water, animals, and debris from entering into your chimney. Chimney caps also prevent sparks or embers from escaping your flue and landing on your roof or property.

13. Low Slope Roofing Systems

GAF’s Liberty Self-Adhering SBS modified granule-surfaced roofing membrane is designed for use with LIBERTY™ Self-Adhering Base/Ply Sheet and helps provide durable protection on low-slope areas of your property, including porches, garages, carports, and sheds. Materials can be installed without open flames and with no fumes or odors and provides durable protection for the low slope areas of your roof.

14. Drip Edge

Drip edge is an angled piece of flashing that is installed over top of a fascia board. Drip edge helps redirect water from the fascia into the gutters. Drip edge can be installed on the rake, eaves, and gables of your roof.

15. Ventilation

Roof ventilation is a system of vents and fans that allow air to flow through the attic space, removing heat and moisture.

Intake vents: located at the lower parts of the roof, like the soffit or under eaves, intake vents allow fresh air to enter the attic.

Exhaust vents: Located at higher points of the roof, like the ridge or gable, exhaust vents allow hot air to escape your attic.

Below are some examples of exhaust and intake vents:

Can Vent (exhaust)

Bath Vent/ Kitchen vent- comes in various sizes (exhaust)

FasciaVent (intake)

Soffit vent (intake)

Solar powered Fans (exhaust)

16. Starter Strip

Starter strips are an important and integral part of an asphalt shingle roof system. They aid in the roof’s water-shedding ability by locking down all the shingles with powerful adhesive. This adhesive also helps prevent the shingles from ever blowing off.

17. Attic Insulation

Properly air sealing and insulating an attic space can help keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Insulation saves money on heating and cooling bills and helps to keep the attic temperature where it should be. Proper insulation is an important barrier that prevents heat from moving between the attic and the living spaces of the home.

Knowing these terms can make it easier for homeowners to identify when something may be wrong with their roof’s integrity. Having a professional do an evaluation is always the best way to ensure your roof is in good shape and your home has proper ventilation. Renaissance Roofing, Inc. is here to help with your roofing needs! Please do not hesitate to give us a call at 734-495-0996.

While every HOA will have its own unique set of rules, some common items that HOAs set rules or restrictions for may include, but are not limited to:

• Siding & roofing colors/materials

• Home additions

• Yardwork & décor

• Fencing

• Visitor parking

• Recreational vehicles & trailers parked in driveways

Homeowner’s Associations will assign a governing board of directors that have been elected among the HOA members. This group determines how funds collected from the community are spent and oversees that all rules and restrictions are followed in the neighborhood.

HOAs collect funds from the community to provide homeowners with benefits such as:

• Maintenance of common areas

• Tree trimming & lawn mowing

• Maintenance & staffing of pools and gyms

• Snow removal & other maintenance of common roads and parking lots

Replacing Your Roof – HOA Approval

If you live in a community with an HOA and are planning to undergo a roof replacement, you will may need to get approval from your HOA. When your roofing contractor applies for your roof replacement permit (if your city requires a building permit), they will often be asked to submit a letter/email from their customers’ HOA to verify the approval to replace the roof. To obtain approval, you will most likely need to send the roof replacement plans to the HOA board members for them to review the materials and shingle color that will be installed.

With almost 30 years of business under our belt, Renaissance Roofing, Inc. has never had an issue with HOA approval. Our team at Renaissance Roofing, Inc. is more than happy to answer any questions that HOA board members may have during the approval process. We always use GAF architectural shingles with standard color options that do not have issues getting approved.

For those who are interested in GAF’s Solar Shingles and are worried about approval from your HOA, you are in luck! On July 8th, 2024, the Homeowners Energy Policy Act was signed into law by Governor Gretchen Whitmer in Michigan. This Homeowners Energy Policy Acts grants HOA members the ability to install rooftop solar systems and an array of other energy savings measures without pushback from Homeowners’ Associations. This act prevents HOAs from being able to completely ban solar panels, solar shingles, and other energy saving improvements. Please visit our solar page on our website for more information on GAF’s Timberline Solar Shingle system.

Every Homeowners’ Association is different, and it is best to ask your HOA what their policies entail. For any roofing-related HOA questions, please do not hesitate to contact Renaissance Roofing, Inc.

Roof deck underlayment provides crucial protection against moisture, prevents leaks, and is a vital part of enhancing the durability and longevity of your roof. When it comes to protecting your roof decking, it is important to pick products that you know you can rely on.

After your old roofing components are removed, the deck surface is inspected and any rotten or damaged boards will be replaced. The next product that is installed over your decking is ice guard. At Renaissance Roofing, Inc., we offer two ice guard products on our proposals: WeatherWatch and a generic ice guard. Ice guard is installed according to building code, a minimum of 66” up eaves or 2 feet into the heated unit to avoid water and snow penetration. Ice guard is also installed around penetrations, skylights, valleys & dormers, chimneys, flashings and transitions.

We always recommend installing the WeatherWatch ice guard for several reasons. For one, it helps prevent leaks in the most vulnerable parts of your home and reduces the risk of costly repairs due to wall and ceiling stains from leaks. Weather Watch also meets all the code requirements where local building codes require the use of leak barriers, all while being eligible for the best warranties that GAF offers. The generic ice guard is not an eligible product for GAF’s Lifetime Limited warranty.

After the ice guard is installed, underlayment is applied to the entire remaining roof deck. GAF offers the following products for deck protection: Shingle-Mate, FeltBuster, TigerPaw, and Deck-Armor. While Shingle-Mate and FeltBuster are less expensive options, our professional opinion is that they are an inferior product to GAF’s TigerPaw and Deck-Armor. We highly recommend going the next step up with GAF’s TigerPaw or Deck-Armor deck protection underlayment, as they perform better.

GAF’s Shingle-Mate is a fiberglass enforced underlayment, a slight upgrade from the 30# felt option. Shingle-Mate will lay flatter and smoother than traditional felt protection. GAF’s FeltBuster is a synthetic roofing material. Compared to TigerPaw and Deck-Armor, FeltBuster is thinner and has almost a tinfoil-like consistency in our opinion.

TigerPaw Premium roof deck protection features a moisture control design that reduces damaging moisture on the roof deck, allowing it to lay flatter. TigerPaw’s synthetic, non-woven material provides at least 7 times greater tear strength than standard #30 felt (please ask for a sample from your estimator to compare). Non-asphaltic, polypropylene underlayment will not rot or become brittle – unlike conventional felts, which can disintegrate over time.

While TigerPaw is a great product, Renaissance Roofing, Inc. also offers an upgrade to the GAF Deck-Armor Premium roof deck protection. Deck-Armor offers all the same great qualities as TigerPaw —breathable technology, durable, long-lasting construction, a great look for your home with its resistance to buckling—and the same lifetime limited warranty eligibility but with even more protection. Deck-Armor is thicker, and its breathable technology (has the highest perm-rating for this product in the market) helps manage the roof system’s moisture and provides a secondary layer of wind-driven protection. Deck-Armor’s claim to fame is that in the event of windblown shingles, DeckArmor is made to help withstand the elements for up to 180 days while your roof is being repaired.

Installation of Tiger Paw or Deck Armor

TigerPaw and Deck-Armor roof deck protection are both installed above the ice guard on the roof. They are the roof’s secondary layer of protection from the elements, including rain, snow, and wind. These are the layers that lie between the shingles and the roof deck. Your roof is the first line of defense against the elements, which is why it is so important that it is protected by quality materials that can withstand different weather conditions.

When deciding on deck protection, it is crucial to choose a durable, water-tight material. Inferior underlayments will not provide nearly as much protection as TigerPaw and Deck-Armor and will not be covered under GAF’s Silver and Golden Pledge limited extended warranties. Have peace of mind knowing your roof will be protected with high-quality underlayment such as the GAF WeatherWatch, TigerPaw and Deck-Armor.

Renaissance Roofing, Inc. is here to help you decide what is best for you and your home! Please feel free to contact us to set up a time for your personal roof evaluation.