Author Archives: Keystone General Contracting, LLC

How Often do You Need to Clean Your Chimney?

There is no need to bother cleaning your chimney at the same frequency as you clean your home’s floors, bathtub or cookware.  Chimney maintenance should be performed once per year.  Otherwise, the chimney sweep will not be able to properly remove soot, creosote, blockages and other gunk.  Abide by a regular schedule of chimney maintenance/cleaning and you will be able to use your fireplace in full confidence.  At the very least, your chimney should be professionally inspected at least once per year to ensure everything is in worker order and functioning as it should. 

When in doubt, have your chimney cleaned once per year even if it is not egregiously dirty.  The venting systems connected to your home’s stoves and furnaces should also be cleaned once per yer to boot.  When in doubt, rely on our heating services for assistance with home heating maintenance and cleaning.  Even if you do not use your chimney as often as expected, it should still be cleaned as animals ranging from birds to raccoons might have ventured in, making the use of the fireplace unsafe.  However, it might be necessary to clean your chimney more than once per year.  According to the Chimney Safety Institute of America, if more than 1/8” of soot has accumulated within the chimney/flue system, a cleaning will be necessary.  Furthermore, if you spot any glaze within the flue, cleaning should be performed sooner rather than later.

How Much Does It Cost to Have Your Chimney Swept?

Do not let the potential cost of cleaning a chimney stop you from having this important part of your home tended to.  Chimney cleanings are worth every single penny.  Most chimney cleanings cost between $150 and $400.  This is money well-spent as the inspection and cleaning of a chimney will prevent potentially costly repairs and the buildup of creosote that causes fires. 

If you are intimidated by the prospect of spending upwards of $400 for a chimney sweep, consider the cost of a home fire.  The little bit of money necessary for a chimney sweep is significantly less than the cost of building a new home destroyed by a fire.  Furthermore, most chimney sweeps do not run in excess of $250.  In the end, you will likely end up spending between $100 and $250 for your chimney sweep.  The final cost ultimately hinges on the type of chimney at your home and the roof’s accessibility.

What Happens if You Don’t Clean Your Chimney?

The failure to clean a chimney is likely to result in the gradual buildup of creosote.  The burning of wood leads to the formation of creosote within the chimney or its liner.   Creosote spikes the chances of a chimney fire.  The rate at which creosote accumulates is higher if improper burning practices are used or if the fireplace is not functioning as designed.  If enough creosote accumulates, it will eventually decrease the fireplace’s draw, reducing efficiency and posing a legitimate fire hazard.

Abide by a few key chimney maintenance tips and you won’t have to pay for the comprehensive cleaning of a creosote-filled chimney as often as those who neglect their chimney.  Every homeowner in Shreveport, LA should adhere to the following chimney maintenance tips:

• Check the damper a few times per year to ensure it properly closes
• Take a look at the mortar bricks and joints to see if they have been compromised
• Pay for a chimney inspection and cleaning at least once per year
• Ideally, the chimney should be cleaned every 50 burns
• Waterproof your chimney with the addition of a water sealant to the exterior that guards against moisture and mold formation

Chimney cleaning logs will decrease the buildup in the chimney yet industry experts are adamant such logs are merely supplemental to professional chimney sweep cleaning.  A chimney sweep’s specialized chimney cleaning equipment is necessary to perform a truly comprehensive cleaning of this structure.  As an example, a chimney sweep will use a chimney inspection camera to get a clear look at chimney damage, plan the cleaning and execute it to perfection. For your chimney services in Shreveport, LA, dial (318) 300-3660 for Keystone General Contracting, LLC!

What Are Metal Roof Shingles

Metal roof shingles are a variety of metal roofing that encompasses the popular design of asphalt shingles with the strength of the metal. Metal roof shingles can blend easily into any neighborhood and require less maintenance and more longevity than their asphalt shingle counterparts. On the roofing market today, there are many different varieties of metal shingles. These varieties encompass different colors and shapes and are well-adapted for many climates. 

Which is Better A Metal Shingle Roof or a Shingle Roof?

In terms of sheer longevity, design, and maintenance, metal shingle roofs far outpace their asphalt shingle competition. This is because while asphalt shingles are composed of hardy asphalt and paper, metal shingles are made of a far more tough substitute: metal. Metal roofs, particularly those engineered to be corrosion resistant, typically produce exceptional results when faced with strong or extreme weather patterns. Because roofs tend to take a battering, it’s important for roofs to be made out of the strongest, lightest material possible.

Metal Roof Shingles vs Asphalt

Please allow the facts to be clear: asphalt roofs are far more popular and affordable than metal roof shingles. Asphalt shingles were first introduced in America at the turn of the century. Since then, they have dominated the market. Some of the first metal roofs were made of tin. While tin roofs still exist, they have fallen by the wayside due to the driving force of modern technological advances in metal roofing materials. Metal roofs are more expensive than asphalt shingles, but they more than make it up in terms of longevity, durability, and lack of need for excess maintenance. What does this mean? This means that your metal shingle roof will perform better and for longer than a regular shingle roof.

Is a Metal Roof Better?

There is a lot to consider in terms of making a true comparison between a metal roof and other types of roofs. As previously discussed, asphalt shingle roofs are more popular and more affordable, however, they are not as durable as metal roofs. Clay and concrete tile roofs represent one of the most formidable forms of roof competition. This is because tile roofs can last as long, if not longer, than metal roofs, and with similar amounts of maintenance. A well-maintained metal or tile roof can last as long as a century. In terms of better, homeowners should look for a roof that performs well for a long time with a minimal amount of roofing maintenance.

Metal Roof Shingles Disadvantages

It’s time to talk about the disadvantages of a metal shingle roof. Weighing both the advantages and the disadvantages gives a more accurate and appropriate approach to any roofing material on the market today. One of the main disadvantages is the lack of affordability. Metal roofs can be as much as two or three times more pricey than other roofing materials. Noisiness is another potential detractor. With proper insulation, homeowners shouldn’t have to worry too much about noise, however, it is a factor that should be weighed. 

What are the Benefits of Having a Metal Roof? 

Would you like to review the benefits of having a metal roof? Please consider the following advantages.

• Longevity. Metal roofs can last forty to seventy years or longer, with proper care and treatment. 
• Environmentally friendly. Metal roofs are typically made of 25%-95% recycled content. This means huge positive effects on the environment. Additionally, metal roofs are 100% recyclable at the end of their life as a roof. In contrast, though asphalt shingles can be recycled, not all of these such roofs are.
• Energy efficiency. Metal roofs reflect solar radiant heat. This reflective property can reduce cooling costs by 10-25%. 

While the benefits of having a metal roof are remarkable, so is having a well-performing air conditioner. Please consider a reputable HVAC company for your air conditioning services. 

Metal Shingle Roofing Materials

The most common metals that are used to manufacture metal shingles are G90 galvanized steel and aluminum, though copper and zinc shingles exist. Amark Metals is a metal roof manufacturer that provides custom metal roofing materials and metal fabrication products. Many excellent roofing companies utilize these remarkable roofing products. Through a stamping press, metal shingles are produced. These metal shingles come in a wide selection of colors and styles.

Do you have metal roof shingles on your agenda? Our friendly staff at Keystone General Contracting, LLC are ready to take your phone call at (318) 300-3660. Receive quality metal roof shingles in Shreveport, LA!

Can siding be painted?

Home siding can be painted depending on the material yet applying paint to certain materials such as vinyl will actually improve the durability. As home siding doesn’t retain the moisture it’ll be fairly easy to clean and will dry quickly.

Siding vs Painting

In the home siding vs painting debate, you can expect a larger investment in siding material than with paint. Paint typically runs between $1-$3 per square foot while say vinyl siding can cost $3-$8 per square foot.

How much does it cost to fix siding on a house?

The cost of home siding will vary depending on such factors as siding materials, the size of the house, the region of installation services, contractor prices and more. On average you can expect the range to fall between $297-$1,052.

How do you fix gaps in vinyl siding?

Gaps in vinyl siding tend to occur from impacts of inclement weather, insects, wear from the sun and other factors. No matter the case, a hole in your siding can prove detrimental to your overall home’s systems. You can invite water damages from rain, mildew, wood rot, bug infestations and more which can cost greatly if left to progress over time. When you see there are gaps in your vinyl siding take action as soon as you can with some simple DIY tasks. Although a caulking gun may be your first thought, hold off on it this time around if the holes are more than ¼ inch thick as this won’t properly solve the problem. As of such, simply getting a new piece of siding may or may not match the surrounding siding so if possible try sliding the panels together. Your first step to making this happen is to make a trip to the hardware store and purchase a zip tool. After this is secured, it’s time to unlock the overlapping materials. (Steps can be found on the back of the zip tool packaging that can be helpful in this step.) You’ll free the pieces on each side of the gap and then slide them back together until they overlap slightly. Make sure not to cause another hole on the opposite ends of those panels by sliding them in too far. Lastly, you’ll secure the siding by driving a nail through the right side of the flange and on the end of the left-hand panel. Be sure not to drive the nail in too deeply as vinyl tends to contract and expand throughout the year with temperature changes.

When should you replace siding?

Similar to signs of needing electrical services, home siding can prove to show as either fairly obvious or hidden when damaged depending on the case. That’s why it’s important to have a roof or home inspection done with your home after particularly bad inclement weather has come around as that is when damages are most likely to occur. Pay particular attention to home siding near windows as this can be an area of particular sensitivity. As of such, some signs that it may be time to replace your home siding involve the following. Some signs are particularly easy to catch such as pealing, cracks or chipping while others like dry rot occur beneath the top layers of the surface. Yet both of these cases are clear indications that a home siding replacement job is necessary. It’s important to have a visual and tactile inspection done when you suspect rotting as sometimes you’ll see warped areas or feel a softness when touched. A particular visual clue can be seen near the seams of the siding as this is where mold and mildew are likely to grow.

When you need help with your home siding in Shreveport, LA call (318) 300-3660 with Keystone General Contracting, LLC!

While this roof is known for being a commercial roofing style, standing seam metal roof for residential properties has become more and more popular. Since it is becoming more and more popular for homeowners, a lot of them want to know how-how is standing seam metal roofing installed and other typical questions. A pretty common question that is asked is, “How much does it cost to install a standing seam metal roof?” The cost of standing seam metal roof installation is going to be anywhere between $800 to $1,000 per square inch. Another question that many homeowners ask is, “How long will a standing seam metal roof last?” Depending on the material that is used for a standing seam metal roof installation, will determine how long the roof will last. If the standing seam metal roof is made of aluminum or steel last 50 years, whereas copper and zinc will last 100 years or more.

Standing Seam Metal Roof Issues

While standing seam metal roofs have a lot of great qualities like great warranties, long lifespans, no restriction on thermal movement, energy efficiency, lots of metal roof material options, and unique style, it can also have its drawbacks. Its important that if someone is considering standing seam metal roof installation for their home, they know the cons as well as the pros. We tend to only talk about the advantages of a roof, but its essential to know what could go wrong with a roof or what are some potential setbacks.

• Can Be Used On Flat Roofs: If you have a roof pitch that is very low, a standing seam metal roof is not going to work with that type of roof pitch. This is because water that gets on the roof won’t be able to flow off properly, causing a lot of issues with the roof.
• Difficulty Repairing or Replacing: Another thing to be aware of is that this kind of metal roof is harder to repair and replace because the panels will need to be separated as well as have the sealing removed in order to repair or replace one or several panels.
• More Expensive: Standing seam metal roofs aren’t the most expensive metal roof on the market, but they are more expensive than most metal roofs.
• Very Complex Installation: Even when you have a roofer who has years of experience installing this type of metal roof, the whole standing seam metal roof installation process requires a lot of attention to detail and it can take a while.

If you are interested in a standing seam metal roof for your home, know that it will be a little more expensive than most metal roofs, you have higher pitched roof, and you actually want a warranty for your roof. Even though one of the downsides for standing seam metal roofs is that it can be hard to repair or replace, hiring a roofer who has experience working with these roofs will make it less of an issue–this can also help if you have a roof warranty.

Standing Seam Metal Roof Vs. Asphalt Shingles

Deciding on a new roofing system for your home can either be really fun or really overwhelming. It’s fun because you are upgrading to a new roof, but it can be overwhelming because there are a ton of choices to choose from. The most classic residential roofing material that homeowners gravitate towards are asphalt shingles. This is because they are cost-effective, they are easy to install, they come in a wide range of colors, and they are pretty durable. However, a lot of homeowners who are looking for something different might be torn between metal roofing, such as standing seam metal roofing and asphalt shingles.

If you are wanting a metal roof installation for your home, it’s important that you call a professional roofer. You wouldn’t call an amateur for AC services in New Orleans, LA, so why depend on someone who doesn’t have the roofing experience needed to install a metal roof? To get the best metal roof installation in Shreveport, LA, call Keystone General Contracting, LLC at (318) 300-3660 to talk with their roofing experts.

Winter comes with many responsibilities for a homeowner. Depending on where you live, you may need to shovel your sidewalk and driveway, attend to ice dams, and regularly scrape your car’s windshield. Though we don’t get much snow here in Norco, LA, heating maintenance plans still represent an important annual requirement. As for your roof, the season doesn’t put repair, replacement, or roof restoration needs on hold. You will still need to tend to roof repair in winter, schedule inspections after heavy storms, and weigh the necessity of replacement for particularly old or damaged roofs.

At Keystone General Contracting, LLC, we aim to keep our customers informed. We get a lot of questions about the necessity, and even the possibility, of roof service once temperatures begin to drop. Safety issues around icy roofs aside, the winter does present some special challenges in regards to roofing. If you ever find yourself confronting the need for roof replacement or roof repair in winter, you will benefit from a little prior knowledge. First of all, however, you will need to know the nature of your need, and whether to pursue repair or replacement.

Do I Need Roof Repair or Replacement?

The need for roof repair in winter is just as plain as in the summer. If you notice any of these signs, you need repair.

• Missing or Displaced Shingles
• Cracked, Creased, Broken, or Otherwise Damaged Shingles
• Damaged Flashing
• Sagging Roof Line
• Water Stains on Your Ceiling

Of course, the more significant your repair needs, the more likely that replacement makes more sense. Generally speaking, if any of the above problems have developed to an extreme, you might want to simply spring for a new roof. For example, multiple leaks or an abundance of missing shingles mean you should consider the possibility of replacement. A few of the most common signs for roof replacement include the following.

Multiple or Especially Serious Leaks: Though leaks generally represent an easy repair, multiple leaks can indicate a fundamental problem with your roofing. They can also cause your decking to rot, a serious situation that calls for a new roof.

Ice Dams: If you live in an area with regular snow and ice storms, ice dams are a big problem. They develop due to temperature differences across your roofing, and usually indicate a design flaw. Worse still, they allow moisture to easily penetrate down to your decking and insulation, and create the necessary conditions for rot and mold.

Lost Roofing Granules: If you notice an abundance of roofing granules in your gutters, you likely need a new roof. Granules protect your shingles from sunlight and impact. When the shingles begin to lose their granules, it showcases either defective products, or those that have simply aged beyond the point of usefulness.

Comprehensive Hail Damage: Few things can devastate a roof to the extent of hail. A fairly common winter occurrence, it often batters roofs into a state of uselessness.

Roof Repair During Winter: What Temperature Is Too Cold for Roofing?

If you need winter roof repair for a leak, you may wonder about how the temperature and weather affects the possibility for service. Asphalt shingles become vulnerable in extreme weather. If it’s too hot, the shingles are liable to lose their granular covering. If too cold, they become very brittle. So, if you’ve ever wondered, can roof shingles be installed in cold weather, it simply depends on how cold.

The ideal temperature for the installation or repair of an asphalt shingle roof is between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Anything below that, and the adhesive used to seal your roof shingles will not function effectively. The special adhesives used for roofing rely upon heat from the sun to seal. Any temperature below 70 degrees can negatively impact the quality of the roofing job. At lower temperatures, roof shingles can become brittle and difficult to work with. Anything lower than 40 degrees Fahrenheit, and a reputable roofer will not accept the job at all.

Commercial roof repair in winter can also suffer from the season’s low temperatures. EPDM, a popular type of commercial roofing, is especially affected. EPDM relies on a thick adhesive that’s difficult to work with even at high temperatures. If the mercury ever falls below 45 degrees, EPDM becomes virtually impossible to install or repair.

Roof Repair in Winter FAQ

How Long Does a Roof Usually Last?

This depends on your roofing material. Asphalt shingles that receive the benefit of timely repairs and inspections can last 15 to 20 years. If you have an EPDM commercial roof, it can last for 25 to 30 years. Concrete tiles can last for 40 years, while clay tile can last up to 80. Metal roofing can also persist for many years, starting at 40 and increasing with the quality of installation.

Can a Roof Be Repaired in the Winter?

It’s possible to repair a roof in the winter, though it becomes more difficult as temperatures drop. It also depends on the nature of the repair. If your roofer needs to replace a large number of shingles, or a panel of EPDM material, the temperature needs to remain north of 45 degrees Fahrenheit to make the work possible.

Is it OK to Put a New Roof on in the Winter?

This depends on the type of roofing system you want installed. As mentioned above, you should not try to have asphalt shingles installed if the temperature falls below 40 degrees. For EPDM, 45 degrees represent the limit. If you want PVC or TPO, these materials are less affected through cold temperatures. As for metal roofing, it can install at virtually any temperature, as it does not rely on adhesives or sealants.

What Temperature Does it Need to Be to Seal Shingles?

Ideally, between 70 an 80 degrees Fahrenheit. If hotter, the shingles become too pliable and easily damaged. If colder, they will not seal properly.

At Keystone General Contracting, LLC, we’re the local expert for roof repair in winter in Shreveport, LA. Whatever your need may be — and whatever the temperature — don’t hesitate to call us if you need service. We’re always available for the aid of our clients, so give us a call now at (318) 300-3660.

If you are looking for ways to save money monthly while also cooling down your building, get cool roofing! Cool roofing is a type of flat roofing that has extreme reflective properties in its white coating that reflect the sun’s UV rays that help prevent your building from getting hot. Cool roofs do more than just cool down your building; they also take the load off of your air conditioning unit from having to do so much work to once cool down the entire place. You will not need to constantly call for air conditioner repair anymore after getting cool roof installation because the reflective roof puts less strain on your HVAC unit by reflecting heat, which cools down your building. For installation of cool roofing in Shreveport, LA, call Keystone General Contracting, LLC at (318) 300-3660 today.

The Benefits of a Cool Roof

• • white coating prevents sun damage by reflecting UV rays
  • reflective coating cools down building, which lowers your energy bills
  • can come in multiple coating or single ply systems with different base materials
  • also available as a green, environmentally-friendly roof
  • quick and quiet installation allows your business to stay open while roof installation is going on
  • all cool roofs have a seamless and waterproof base that help to prevent water ponding and leaks
  • helps to reduce roofing landfill waste as cool roofs can be reapplied on top of each other
  • cool roofing can come in single ply membrane, roof coating, metal roof, or green roof forms

You may have already heard of commercial roof coatings. While many businesses sing the praises of roof restoration, you have to ask: “Is it really worth the cost?” Let’s find out!

What is the Purpose of a Roof Coating?

Consistent maintenance and seasonal repairs will prevent the majority of problems for your roofing system. There comes a time however, when gradual wear and tear has worn down your material, leaving tears and punctures. You’re left with a difficult choice: do I stick it out and keep scheduling repairs, or do I start looking for a roof replacement?

That’s where roof coatings come into play. A roof coating is the middle option between repairs (which can get expensive over time) and installing a brand new roof (immediately expensive). The restorative coating can mend minor holes, cracks, tears, etc., but there are many other potential benefits as well. Many businesses see a dramatic decrease in their cooling costs as well, because a coating can reflect additional sunlight.

Which Roof Coating is Best?

“What’s best for my business?” is the right question. It all depends on what functional priorities you have. Some of the most popular roof coatings include:

• Acrylics 
• Silicone Coatings
• Polyurethane
• Butyl Coating

If your business is searching for a stronger waterproofing to combat pooling water on the roof, your best choices will be either butyl or silicone. Both of these can handle weathering hazards extremely well. Polyurethane offers fair water resistance with excellent color protection.

Companies that look for energy-efficiency above all else often go with an acrylic or even a urethane modified acrylic coating. Acrylics (especially whites) are highly reflective, so they can greatly reduce the temperature of your roofing system. Who doesn’t like saving money on heating and cooling costs?

Schedule Your Commercial Roof Coating!

Our team at Keystone General Contracting, LLC is happy to provide estimates and installation for your choice of roof coating in Shreveport, LA and nearby areas. Give us a call today at (318) 300-3660!

You’ve probably heard about cool roofing solutions over the years and how they can save you money. How exactly does that work? Well, with a properly installed cool roofing system, you can expect exception energy savings from your HVAC system and lower maintenance costs for your roofing.

How Does a Cool Roof Work?

According to the U.S. Department of Energy,

“Standard or dark roofs can reach temperatures of 150°F or more in the summer sun. A cool roof under the same conditions could stay more than 50°F cooler and save energy and money by using less air conditioning.”

One of the most literal terms in the roofing industry, “cool roofing” reduces the surface temperature of your system for better energy efficiency. This is usually achieved by making your roof more reflective, either by using alternative roofing materials or via flat roof coatings. As a result, your HVAC unit won’t have to work as strenuously to compensate for extra heat. That means fewer calls to your HVAC company for commercial air conditioner and heater repair.

What is a Cool Roof Made Of?

There’s more than one way to craft a cool roof, such as…

• Metal roofing materials (especially aluminum)
• Light-colored single ply material (TPO and PVC are favorites)
• White roof coatings (acrylics and other elastomeric solutions)

When you’re installing or replacing your commercial roof, the material you pick has a tremendous impact on your building’s energy efficiency. A well-insulated roof will keep cool air inside your building, while a reflective roof will keep the extra heat out. Popular materials for cool flat roofs include white TPO and PVC, while aluminum is a favorite for sloped roofing systems.

However, you don’t have to wait for roof replacement to access the benefits of a cool roof. Many benefits utilize acrylic coatings for their reflective capabilities. In very humid and high-precipitation climates, urethane modified acrylics add enhanced waterproofing capabilities to ensure your coating lasts. Coatings are very easy to install, plus they have minor restorative capabilities perfect for roofs with cracking and abrasions.

Flat Roof Coatings and Commercial Roof Installation

Are you eager to get the ball rolling on your company’s cool roof? We’d love to help you! You’re welcome to call our Keystone General Contracting, LLC professionals at (318) 300-3660 to get an estimate on your roofing system.

Lots of people love their shingle rooftops! Asphalt shingle roofing has its perks, but sometimes your home needs a material that provides stronger protection. Thousands of people are in the same boat, but there are several quality options for homeowners wanting something better. Consider these three amazing shingle upgrades for enhanced roof protection and beautiful style!

Upgrade Option #1: Architectural Shingles

Withstanding wind speeds of up to 120 mph, architectural (or laminate) shingles are much more resilient against extreme weather incidents. The special layering process of architectural shingles also creates a lovely multidimensional look in your roofing system. Who couldn’t use a little extra curb appeal?

Upgrade Option #2: Impact Resistant Shingles

Have you ever had to submit an insurance claim for rooftop hail damage? You probably remember the hassle and the stress if you have. Impact resistant shingles can handle hail strikes of up to 90 mph, without breaking! They come in a variety of colors for your styling convenience, but imagine never having to file another rooftop damage insurance claim.

Upgrade Option #3: Synthetic Shingles

Synthetic shingles allow you to mimic the appearance of luxury wood shakes, tile, and slate! With synthetics however, homeowners get to skip the exorbitant maintenance costs and heavy weight associated with traditional luxury shingles. Synthetic tiles are so light, they don’t even need additional roof supports! Synthetic wood shakes don’t require frequent cleaning like natural wood. With numerous designs and colors to choose from, you’ll see why so many people choose synthetic shingles for their roofing system.

Which of these shingle upgrades appeals to you? For all your questions about premium shingle roofing, you’re welcome to chat with the experts at Keystone General Contracting, LLC. Call (318) 300-3660!