Why Choose Fiber Cement Siding for Your Atlanta, GA, Home


If you love the authentic look of traditional wood siding but hate the maintenance hassles which accompany it, then fiber cement siding may be the perfect choice for your Atlanta home. This product is more durable than wood, more upscale than vinyl, and costs less than brick or cedar lap. It’s also totally resistant to insects, fire and rot. What’s not to love?

Fiber cement is produced from a mixture of cement, sand and cellulose fiber, the latter added to prevent cracking. During the manufacturing process, the compound is rolled out, imprinted with the desired texture, cut into sections, and steam-cured under high pressure. The resilience and versatility of the finished siding product – it can be finished with any color or texture, from smooth to wood-grain, in any shape – make it ideal for most design requirements.

While fiber cement siding does need to be painted or stained, the paint applied can last much longer than the same paint applied to wood siding – from 15-20 years. With so many benefits, we think painting fiber cement every two decades might be well worth the effort!

M&C Roofing is a certified James Hardie® fiber cement siding contractor. We install the full line of Hardie siding products on homes throughout the Atlanta area. If you think this innovative exterior may be right for your home, call M&C for a FREE, no-obligation siding estimate today at (770) 225-8401.

4 Advantages of Monroe Roofing Skylights in Winter

Installing a skylight is a wonderful way to brighten your home with natural light. This can be particularly enjoyable during the winter, when most of us spend more time indoors, both at home and at work. Even during the coldest winter months, the warmth of a sunlit room can lift your spirits and provide other important advantages, including:

1. Brighten a room. Installing a skylight can brighten dark areas of your home and add a sense of spaciousness. You’ll also save on electric bills as your need for electric light during the daytime is reduced.

2. Save on energy. Especially on sunny days, a carefully placed skylight can help to heat your home with solar energy, reducing the need for electric or gas heat.

3. Preserve the environment. Because they save electricity and gas, modern energy-efficient skylights are considered a “green” home innovation.

4. Beat the wintertime blues. For some individuals, decreased exposure to sunlight in winter can lead to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), commonly known as the “winter blues.” Natural sunlight combats this depressive condition, staving off the blues in the winter.

M&C Roofing installs high-quality skylights from VELUX and Heavenscape. They’re an affordable way to add light and warmth to your home throughout the winter, and value year-round! Call M&C Roofing today at (770) 225-8401 to schedule a FREE Monroe roofing skylight estimate.

Roswell Roofers Remind You to Plan Ahead to Prevent Ice Dams

While most folks enjoy the beautiful white wonderland that follows a heavy snow (usually those who don’t have to get out and drive in it!), winter weather can also result in some nasty problems for local homeowners. This week we’re going to take a look at ice damming, how it affects your Georgia roof, and what you can do now to avoid this major winter headache once temperatures plummet.

An ice dam forms when the surface of a snow-covered roof has uneven temperatures. Heat loss from a home’s interior will warm the upper part of the roof, causing snow to melt and run down the slope. In contrast, the lower portions of the roof will be colder, freezing the runoff at the edge or in a clogged gutter. A ridge of ice then develops, trapping additional snowmelt and forcing it back up and under the shingles. This water can cause numerous problems as it runs under shingles, including ceiling leaks, wood rot, mold and mildew, and cracked foundations.

To prevent the formation of ice dams, you must address the problem of uneven roof surface temperatures. The first area of focus should be adequate attic insulation, which will keep warm air from inside your home from rising up to the roof and heating the roof deck. Secondly, proper attic ventilation will maintain uniform temperatures inside the attic and prevent the buildup of moisture.

Our Roswell roofers encourage you to be mindful of your roof now before the first snow falls in northern Georgia, particularly if you have experienced ice damming in the past. For more information about ice dams, or for an expert inspection of your roofing in Atlanta, GA, call the professionals at M&C Roofing at (770) 225-8401.

Atlanta Roofers Can Help You Qualify for Other 2011 Tax Credits

In December 2010, President Barack Obama signed legislation authorizing a 2011 tax credit for homeowners who purchase certain energy-efficient home improvement products. Last week we discussed the guidelines for the 2011 roofing tax credit. In this week’s post, we’re going to take a look at tax credits available for the purchase of energy-efficient windows, doors, skylights and insulation.

Windows, doors & skylights
Homeowners can receive a tax credit of 10% of the product cost, excluding installation charges. The product must be installed in a primary residence no later than December 31, 2011.
• Up to $200 for eligible windows and skylights
• Up to $500 for eligible doors
• Products must meet ENERGY STAR program requirements

Insulation
Adding insulation or air sealing products to your home also qualifies for a tax credit of 10% of the cost, up to $500 and excluding installation fees. You may do the installation yourself and still receive the credit.

The total claimed for all energy efficiency tax credits may be no more than $500. If you claimed an energy efficiency credit in a previous taxable year, please consult a tax professional to determine your remaining eligibility for the 2011 credit.

M&C Roofing sells and installs many replacement windows, skylights, roofing materials, and other quality products which qualify for current federal tax credits. We can help you choose home improvements which will make your home more comfortable, convenient and valuable! Call us today at (770) 225-8401 to schedule a FREE in-home inspection.

Don’t Miss Out on 2011 Tax Credits for Roofing in Atlanta, GA


For the year 2011, you can take advantage of a federal tax credit up to $500 for energy efficient home improvements. While not as generous as credits from previous years, you can still save a considerable amount on this year’s improvements. This credit is available only for owners of an existing home who use the structure as their primary residence. Here are the details on the tax credit for roofing in Atlanta, GA:

• Eligible roofing materials include “metal roofs with appropriate pigmented coatings” and “asphalt roofs with appropriate cooling granules.” These types of roofs are best utilized in hot climates because they reflect sunlight and cut down on cooling expenses. Such roofs will meet ENERGY STAR requirements; however, not all ENERGY STAR-qualified roofs are eligible.
• For 2011, the credit allows 10% of the cost of roofing materials, up to $500. Labor and installation charges are not included.
• Roofing in Atlanta, GA, must be installed by December 31, 2011.
• Roof coatings are not eligible for the tax credit.
• You must file Tax Form 5695 with your tax return.
• You must submit a Manufacturer’s Certification Statement to qualify. A Manufacturer’s Certification Statement is a signed statement from the manufacturer certifying that the product qualifies for the tax credit.

For more information about available 2011 federal tax credits, click here, or contact M&C Roofing at (770) 225-8401. We can guide you in selecting the best improvements for your home and pocketbook!

Advantages of Duradek™ Vinyl Decking for Homes & Businesses in Atlanta, GA


If you’re a commercial business owner in need of a revamped exterior, or if you’re a homeowner searching for a long-lasting deck treatment, you’ve come to the right place! According to Duradek, “the Duradek system of deck waterproofing membranes offers many advantages over the more traditional liquid applied systems. Often entranceways and walkways (on renovation work) cannot be closed off for even a day. For the commercial property owner or manager, lengthy shut-downs can mean lost revenues and embarrassing inconvenience.

“Duradek can be installed in almost any weather, and even over existing coatings. On the jobsite, there is no mixing, mess or smell, and most importantly, no guesswork for the applicator. Once the substrate is prepared, the sheets are rolled out, glued down and mechanically fastened at the perimeters. The sheets are welded together with a hot air process for a completely waterproof membrane. Even with heavy traffic and the most severe weather conditions, these membranes will outlast ‘painted on’ surfaces by years. They will not peel, chip, delaminate or crack, even on high-use walkways.”

A round-up of the benefits of the Duradek system:
• Duradek is a pre-manufactured sheet, installed in one step and ready for immediate use. It dries quickly and can even be walked on during the installation.
• Duradek can be successfully installed in almost any weather condition.
• Duradek can be glued to almost any surface, even over cracks with minimal surface preparation.
• Duradek is completely waterproof and attractive.
• Duradek has a long life expectancy and can be re-coated in the future.
• Carpet can easily be installed over Duradek.

M&C Roofing is trained in Duradek’s proven installation techniques to solve exterior waterproofing problems. Call the Georgia deck contractor you can trust – M&C Roofing – for a FREE no-obligation estimate on a Duradek outdoor deck today: (770) 225-8401.

Myths About Metal Roofing in Atlanta

No matter what kind of roofing your home currently has, there’s a metal roofing style to match. Today’s innovative metal roofing products are anything but boring — they come in a huge variety of styles, colors and finishes that can mimic the look of asphalt shingles, cedar shakes, clay tiles or slate. More importantly, metal roofing in Atlanta offers a lifespan two to three times that of non-metal roofing materials.

There are still many misunderstandings about the quality and performance of metal roofs. In fact, it has been our experience that metal offers more benefits than the standard asphalt shingle. A metal roof will never deteriorate, and can withstand almost anything Mother Nature brings its way. If you have a metal roof covering your home, you’ll most likely never have to reroof again. Here are some of the most common myths surrounding metal roofing:

Lightning
A metal roof does not increase the chances that your home will be struck by lightning. In contrast, should your home be hit, the metal will lessen damage by dispersing energy throughout the surface. And because metal cannot burn, it’s an ideal roofing option in fire-prone areas.

Noise
Metal roofing does not contribute to increased noise levels within a home. Because metal panels are installed over a thick layer of sheathing, they often do a better job of silencing roof noise from rain and hail than other materials!

Rust & Dents
Today’s metal roofing is covered with a bonded zinc/aluminum coating that prevents the formation of rust. Specially formulated paints add another layer of protection. The result is a product that can stand up to decades of abuse from hail, high winds and heavy precipitation.

When properly installed, a metal roof needs only to be admired. As the foremost roofing contractor in Atlanta, M&C Roofing has led the way in installing metal roofs on homes throughout our region. For a free, no-obligation estimate on a beautiful new metal roof, call M&C Roofing at (770) 225-8401.

DIY Fall Maintenance Guide for Athens Roofing

While you may not be ready for it, shorter days and cooler nights mean that winter is just around the corner. If you’re a do-it-yourself kind of homeowner, now’s the time to take advantage of Georgia’s fine fall weather and perform a complete roof inspection to ensure your Athens roofing is prepped for wintry weather. Proper fall roof maintenance will detect serious roofing problems and prevent expensive, difficult repairs over the winter months. In addition, you should also perform an annual spring roof checkup after winter has passed. Following are the most important items to include on your roofing to-do list to extend the life of your roof:

1. Shingles and flashing. Survey your roof for missing shingles or signs of cracking, peeling or bareness. Shingles exhibiting any of these issues should be replaced or repaired to prevent water leakage. Popped nails should be hammered in and covered with roof cement. Flashing (placed around protrusions in a roof to protect seams and joints) that appears loose or damaged must be repaired or replaced.

2. Debris. Significant debris accumulation, including leaves, twigs, branches, tree bark and seeds, on the surface of your roof should be removed to prevent the accumulation of water that speeds deterioration. If your property has a lot of mature trees above the roofline, this task may need to be done more than once during the fall season. Also, be sure branches are trimmed back from the roof. Tree branches that are too close to a home can scratch and damage Athens roofing materials.

3. Gutters. Gutters and downspouts must be clear of leaves and debris to prevent ice damming over the winter. After debris has been cleared, flush the guttering with water to check for leaks. Tired of cleaning gutters? Ask us about gutter protection systems!

4. Attic vents. Check for holes and deterioration of attic vents. Be sure vents are not blocked by debris.

If you prefer not to maintain your roof yourself, call M&C Roofing for your fall roof checkup anywhere in or around Atlanta. We’ll conduct a safe, professional inspection and, if necessary, offer a free estimate on roof repair or replacement. Call us at (770) 225-8401.

Tired of Cleaning Gutters on Alpharetta Roofing?

Last fall, did your home maintenance routine include hours on a shaky ladder, cleaning leaves, twigs and slime out of the gutters on your Alpharetta roofing? Most homeowners understand that it’s important to keep a home’s guttering clear to avoid water damage to the structure and surrounding landscape. But doesn’t it make more sense to keep leaves and debris out of gutters in the first place?

That’s why M&C Roofing is proud to sell and install quality gutter protection systems for customers in Atlanta, Monroe, Athens, Marietta, Lawrenceville and surrounding towns. We recommend the following products as an effective shield against leaves and debris in your gutters.

Alcoa Leaf Relief™
Leaf Relief brings real relief to homeowners who need a gutter solution that works, first time, every time. Its patented Aluma-Perf Technology™ keeps debris out of gutters, allowing water to flow freely. Debris is then lifted off of gutters by a normal breeze. Leaf Relief mounts securely to the gutter system, resisting damage from high winds, heavy snow and ice. The tough aluminum construction of Leaf Relief is indelible and resists damage from bugs, squirrels, raccoons and birds.

Hallett Gutter Cover®
Hallett Gutter Cover is a patented gutter debris eliminator that works. No slots, holes or mesh to catch leaves and debris. With Hallett Gutter Cover, a one-piece design allows water to enter the gutter by surface tension and electromagnetic attraction. Water will follow the curved surface into the gutter and debris will fall over the edge, virtually eliminating build-up and messy gutter cleaning. Testing shows that the Hallett Gutter Cover system diverts up to 6″ of rainfall per hour.

Our professionals have found both Leaf Relief and Gutter Cover are effective at keeping leaves and other debris out of in your gutters so that water can flow freely. So put your ladder away! Contact M&C Roofing today at (770) 225-8401 for a FREE in-home estimate on a gutter protection system for your Alpharetta roofing.

Roswell Roofers Participate in “Celebrate Freedom Atlanta”

The staff of M&C Roofing enjoys participating in local events where our Roswell roofers can support community causes and meet neighbors like you.

On September 3, 2011, we sponsored the BMX Stunt Show at “Celebrate Freedom Atlanta,” located at Jim R. Miller Park in Marietta, home of the North Georgia State Fair. “Celebrate Freedom” was sponsored by 104.7 FM The Fish, and brought thousands of residents out to hear great music and participate in a 5K and 10K run. A large crowd gathered to watch several talented young people perform jumps over an M&C Roofing truck.

The festival, which has drawn more than 50,000 people in past years, offered a variety of free activities in addition to the Stunt Show, including Kenyan Acrobats, Ultimate Air Dogs, inflatables, kids’ entertainment and more. The evening concert, in conjunction with WinShape Foundation, featured Jason Castro, Switchfoot, Newsboys, Josh Wilson, Victory World Music featuring Montell Jordan, and Echoing Angels. It was a wonderful way to celebrate Labor Day weekend!

Next year’s “Celebrate Freedom Atlanta” will be held on Saturday, September 1. Check out our Community page for photos of the BMX event!