Our crews are experienced, licensed and certified to provide repair and replacement of all types and sizes of roofs. From steeply pitched Cape Cod-style homes, to elegant Victorians, to commercial buildings, schools and churches — we’ve done it all in Cambridge Ma!

I am most happy to recommend G.F. Sprague and Company… the work done (major slate repair) could not have been improved upon. It was done in an orderly and timely fashion.
- B. Theodore

We also provide turnkey solutions for:

Know Your Roof

What makes GF Sprague your best choice for your roof is our thorough approach to the total roofing system on your Cambridge home or business. We start with a complete, on-roof inspection and analysis, which results in a written recommendation for repair, maintenance or replacement.

Don’t Replace Repair!

You might be surprised to learn that more than half the roofs we inspect do not need to be replaced! We find that, with professional repairs provided by GF Sprague, we can extend the useful life of most roofs without the expense of total replacement. Call today to explore your options.

From start to finish you’ve done an excellent job. In comparison to the 25 or 30 contractors I have communicated with (across many trades)… G.F. Sprague is far and away the best!
- J. Burns

A Full Roofing System

We don’t just repair or replace shingles. GF Sprague treats the entire roofing system, including flashing, vents, chimney and gutters. Our goal is to build and maintain an impermeable shield to protect your most valuable asset from the wind and weather conditions found in Cambridge.

We’re Here When You Call

In the event of storm damage, our Emergency Roof Response Team is “on call,” 7 days a week, to provide emergency repairs in the event of a major leak, penetration or structural damage occurs. We take quick action to help mitigate further damage.

Contact us for a free estimate today by calling 781-455-0556.

Foolproof Advice For Home Improvement Projects in Cambridge, Ma.

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Are you looking to make improvements on your home but you feel clueless? Don’t feel bad. It is common for an average person to not know where to start. That is where the following article will come into play-- you are going to be given tips that will help you begin the process.

Roofing

It is possible to install your aluminum roof structure appropriate above top of older asphalt tiles. This can save you time and expense simply because you simply will not have expenses working in the removal. However, if there are many than two levels they will have to be removed initial.

Make sure to have your home inspected before starting any major renovations. Checking for roofing issues, termites, electrical issues and plumbing beforehand can save you a lot of trouble down the road. Finding issues like these when you are halfway through a renovation process can be a nightmare on your budget.

Metal roofing can be made of many different types of metals. Some of the choices you have when deciding are steel, zinc, copper, stainless steel, and alumninum. All of these have their pros and cons and you should look into each one of them to make an informed decision.

One type of roof vent you can use with metal roofing would be one made of ABS plastic. They normally come in the same color of the metal you will be using. They are easy to install with metal screws and stand up well when you are considering the elements.

Roll roof your floor for a practically indestructible finish! Buy roll roofing without the adhesive strip. Glue it in place either in long strips as it comes off the roll or cut up into irregular geometric shapes. Coat thickly with paint and use a brush to work the paint evenly into the surface.

You can install your metal roofing right over top of old asphalt tiles. This will save you time and money because you will not have costs involved in the removal. But if there are more than two layers they will have to be removed first.

Suppose you are planning to replace your roof and are considering using either shingles or metal roofing. Which is best? You need to take into account the pitch of the roof. Either material will work on a steep pitch, but for a low pitch roof you should use metal roofing. Shingles will always leak.

Chimneys

Downspouts, rain gutters and chimneys are usually ignored when executing upgrades and upkeep every year. It is crucial which you examine all of the different parts of your home to guarantee they do not need an update or fix. Chimneys are flame dangers when they are overlooked. Downspouts and gutters could become worthless on account of debris, which in turn, may cause water damage and mold.

Gutters

If you have a leaky roof, some of the first places you should look for the culprit would be skylights, around the chimney, wall step flashings, and low spots. The next place to look would be the gutters! Damaged gutters are often the cause of a leaky roof because the water will run directly down the exterior of the house.

By replacing the existing gutters on one’s house with copper gutters they will be doing a home improvement project that enhances the appearance of their house. It can also help the value of one’s house if they are ever going to try to sell the house. Most importantly though it will make one feel better about their house.

To save money on later projects, hold onto even your used equipment which still serves a purpose. For example, leftover drywall or putty may be useful if you ever need to patch a hole. Even seemingly "done” items like used paint rollers can find a second purpose; their long handles and narrow dimensions make them perfect for clearing gutters.

If you notice icicles or an ice jam in your rain gutters over the winter, you have a real problem on your hands. If the snow on your roof melts and builds up in frozen rain gutters, it can back up under your shingles and damage your roof. Call someone in to check both the rain gutters and the roof come spring.

If you have decided to do your own repainting of your home’s exterior, remember to paint surfaces from the top down. Begin first with the gutters. The fascia boards, and the eaves of your house. When this part is finished, work your way downward to the main surfaces. You can save yourself a considerable amount of time by using a high-quality 4-inch brush. Check often for drips and streaks since they are more difficult to clean up after the paint is dried.

Windows

Sealing air leaks is an inexpensive way to improve the energy efficiency of your home. Unsealed cracks and openings are one of the leading causes of heat loss in the average home. Common problem areas include around doors and windows, around pipes, wires and ducts that lead outdoors and around recessed light fixtures. Use caulk to seal small cracks and expanding spray foam for larger gaps and openings.

Insulate your home in order to save energy and lower your heating and cooling bills. Check the attic, as well as windows and doors. Any leaky spots should be fixed. Weather stripping can be added to doors and windows and new insulation can be added to the attic. You want to keep air that you paid to heat or cool, inside the home.

Older awnings over porches and windows can greatly detract from the appearance of your home. By removing them, you are updating your house with a more modern look that allows its distinctive character to shine through. Furthermore, you will find that more natural light enters your house through the windows, brightening the mood.

For a beautiful addition to your home, consider turning two windows that are close together into sliding glass or french doors. With glass doors, you are allowing the light to come in as well as the beauty of the world outside your door. Being able to look out at nature while having your first cup of coffee will make the investment worthwhile.

Make sure your home is properly insulated through the use of weather stripping on your home’s doors and windows. This helps eliminate and reduce air leaks and improves your heating or cooling system’s efficiency. For your efforts, you will enjoy lower electric bills and a home that is cooler in warmer weather and warmer in colder weather.

As was mentioned at the beginning of this article, it is normal and common to feel clueless about home improvements. The goal of this article was to educate you about the important factors of home improvements. Apply the advice that was given to you to begin making your repairs and improvements.

Breathe Easy, We’re Insured and Certified…

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Areas we service in Massachusetts:

Needham MA | Wellesley MA | Weston MA | Wayland MA | Sudbury MA | Newton MA | Brookline MA | Cambridge MA | Arlington MA | Boston MA | Concord MA | Lexington MA | Canton MA | Dover MA | Duxbury MA | Winchester MA | Cohasset MA | Hingham MA | Cambridge MA | Swampscott MA | Scituate MA | Prides Crossing MA | Framingham MA | Natick MA | Quincy MA | Carlisle MA | Ipswich MA | Gloucester MA | Manchester MA | Newburyport MA | Westwood MA | Sherborn MA | Belmont MA | Lincoln MA | Milton MA | South Natick MA | Wellesley Hills MA | Newton Corner MA | Auburndale MA | Newtonville MA | Forest Hills MA | Waban MA | Newton Highlands MA | Newton Centre MA | Chestnut Hill MA | Waltham MA | Watertown MA | West Roxbury MA | Dedham MA | Norwood MA | Medfield MA | Milford MA | Wenham MA | Rowley MA | Marblehead MA | Georgetown MA | Hamilton MA | Medford MA | Sharon MA | Jamaica Plain MA | Walpole MA |

The post Roofing Contractor Cambridge Ma. appeared first on GF Sprague | Roofing, Gutter, WIndow, Chimney, Ice Dam-Snow Removal, and Home Improvement Contractor | Massachusetts.

How to install metal roofing






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How to install metal roofing

Metal roofing used to be the domain of sheds and shanty towns but technology has progressed the humble metal sheet into something that can add a designer finish to your home.

Metal roofing is growing in popularity and no longer just being confined to architect houses.  With the correct materials and proper fitting a metal roof can last a lifetime. Metal roofing isn’t just confined to steel and iron. With copper aluminium, polymer, zinc, and tin as options they are environmentally friendly, recyclable and visually pleasing. Due to the expense, a degree of DIY skill is required but the finished result can make your house stand out in the neighborhood.

Instructions




1

Metal Roof installation – tools required

Before installing a metal roof gather together all the tools you are going to require. Installation will be made earlier by not having to scramble up and down ladders for items as you need them.

You should have

Stepladder

Extension ladder

Measuring tape

Chalk line

Heavy duty drill and bits including screw in attachment

Heavy duty hammer

Rubber mallet

Roofing nails

Selection of wood and metal screws

Metal snips

These are just the basics, other tools you might find useful are nail gun and nail bag plus any specific pieces of kit for dealing with pipes and other obstructions.

2

Measuring up for a metal roofing installation

Measuring determines the quantity of metal roofing materials that you need. This is ascertained by measuring the roof’s height and then including the length of overhang that is required usually between 2 and 4 inches.  To determine the amount of metal edging you will need to measure the length of the roof.  Measurements should also include an allowance of 3-6 inches of space for airflow between each layer.  Trim pieces are measured by length whilst shingles and sheets are in square feet.

Suitable materials for a metal roofing installation in residential properties are of two main types; R- Panel, a sheeting with high ridges which uses 5/16 inch screws for fixing and V-crimp roofing which is easiest to install.

3

Preparation and foundation

If it is a replacement metal roofing installation it is optimum to remove the old shingles with a roofing shovel or pitchfork.  A good base for the new roof can then be made with spread roofing felt or 30lb tarpaper.

If the existing roof is just a single layer of shingles it is worth considering making a new foundation using wooden slat boards. Slat boards are made from pine wood used in construction. They measure 1 by 5 inches and can be fixed over the existing roof with 3-inch screws. The best way to make a good base is for the slat boards to be laid lengthwise in 2 foot intervals moving bottom to top. The new metal roof is then attached to these boards.

Once you have a solid foundation, installation can begin.

4

Carrying out the installation

The first task of a metal roofing installation is the metal edging. Attach it all around the roof’s perimeter with 1 ¼ -inch nails.

5

Next is to fix the first sheet. Using ¼ inch wood screws fix the metal sheet to the wooden slats. Remember safety is paramount at all times so if the sheets are more than 12 feet in length it is a 2 man job.  The first sheet should also be fixed across the centre. This is not required for subsequent sheets as they will be fixed by edge trimming.

6

For guidance a chalk line can be made across the length of each sheet at every 2 feet so that you can see from both sides where the screws are to be placed. Working on one side of the roof only, the next sheet is laid overlapping the first. For a V-crimp sheet overlap the first by a single crimp or dip. If an R-Panel is being used one lip or ridge will overlap a ridge of the sheet already laid and fixed.

7

Continue fixing the sheets until there is space left for the last sheet. Measure to fit according to space to be filled plus any overhang. Use the snips to cut to desired length then fix.

8

Once the one side of the roof is covered the process can be repeated on the other.

9

For R-Panels, once all the sheets are in place and the entire roof covered, fix in with 5/16 lap screws at 4 foot intervals ensuring they are positioned where there is no overlapping of sheets.

10

With the sheets all securely attached it is time to fix the metal trim. This finishes off the edges and top ridge.  The metal trim will have to be notched in the middle so it bends more easily over the roof ridge. The trims are secured using ¼-inch metal wood screws at intervals of 2 feet.

11

If R-Panels have been used, closures will be required. Available in 3 foot lengths they are made of foam rubber and are designed according to the holes of the R-Panel.  To prevent animals and birds getting into the new roof ridges the closures are pushed into the openings along the edge of the roofing. They are self adhesive which stick and form a seal.  The bottom of the sheets can then be screwed down.  If V-Crimp panels have been used the bottoms can be secured as they are being installed.

12

Finally, the ridge can be worked on. Again, the R-Panel will require foam closures for filling the gaps at the top of the sheets. Once the R-Panel gaps have been closed the metal ridge can be screwed into place using 5/16 metal lap at every 2 feet. The screws on the R-Panel should be fixed at the high point of the R. For the V-Crimp, ¼-inch metal wood screws should be used on either side of the V at a high point but not directly on the highest point and again at distances of 2 foot.

13

Once the ridge is finished you should have a professional and beautiful metal roof installation you can be proud of that will last for many years to come.

Tips & Warnings

If you are not skilled in DIY or have a particularly odd shaped roof it is probably preferable to employ a professional contractor to fit a metal roof.

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The post How to install metal roofing appeared first on GF Sprague | Roofing, Gutter, WIndow, Chimney, Ice Dam-Snow Removal, and Home Improvement Contractor | Massachusetts.

November 19, 2003 -Metal roof


Image by CSLP
The metal roof is from TS Metals and is power star heated so that it does not overheat in the summer.

roof.


Image by Sarah Jane
The beauty of a bad paint job on a metal roof.

The post Nice Metal Roof photos appeared first on GF Sprague | Roofing, Gutter, WIndow, Chimney, Ice Dam-Snow Removal, and Home Improvement Contractor | Massachusetts.

The newest innovation these days is metal roofing. Available in a range of appealing supplies, today’s metal roofing delivers strength, flexibility, and permanence to compliment any property style. prize metal roofing for its beauty, endurance and renovation-friendliness.

Whenever metal roofing installation is being considered, aluminum is a natural choice because it delivers strength and durability along with a light weight. In reality, within the aerospace industry, aluminum is the number one metal option, so it is no surprise that aluminum’s desirable qualities make the material just as common among metal roofing contractors. The lighter weight of aluminum makes it effortless for homeowners to re-roof, reducing the weight of their current roof although enjoying the beauty of the newest metal roofing. No structural reinforcement is necessary as may well be the case with slate or tile roofing supplies. And simply because aluminum roofing resists corrosion and rust, it is an ideal material for use in coastal environments. Finally, aluminum is supple and flexible, which makes it possible for for higher creativity for intricate or delicately formed roof, with no loss of strength or beauty.

Galvanized Metal Roofing

One roof that is genuinely as strong as steel is galvanized metal roofing. One specific sort of galvanized metal roofing is manufactured under the brand name, Galvalume, North America’s fastest growing coated steel construction item. This metal roofing is produced with galvanized steel. It is powerful, resists frequent outdoor corrosive forces and is highly durable at twice the rate of typical galvanized metal. Galvalume offers outstanding properties of heat reflectivity. This places a lower power load on buildings and contributes to higher comfort inside the developing. A Galvalume metal roofing installation looks terrific on each home, and give very low maintenance and great power savings.

In truth, metal roofing manufactured by Galvalume has been tested by the Florida Solar Energy Center and have passed UL 90 wind tests based on their weight and strength. This indicates this metal roofing installation can withstand 155 mile-per-hour winds.

Today’s metal roofing produced with galvanized steel is suitable for residential use and is typically coated with zinc (g90) or a combination of zinc and aluminum (AZ50) to make certain resistance to corrosive elements. Extra advantages of galvanized metal roofing include excellent strength, greater resistance to wind uplift, which can harm a roof, and a assortment of applications compared to other metal roofing supplies. Of course, this indicates homeowners can also appreciate a wider variety of pricing and goods than can be found with other varieties of metal roofing. Numerous metal roofing contractors are obtainable to assist with installation of your

Metal Roofing &amp Power Efficiency

Homeowners who want to live more “green” and wish to lessen their power bills and add considerably-required value to their houses are pleased by the energy efficiency and environmentally friendly elements of metal roofing.

Metal roofing installation also qualifies homeowners for a energy tax credit of up to per year, courtesy of the United States Power Policy Act of 2005. Basically use IRS Form 5695. If you do not strategy to move for many years, a investment is a very good 1, even if you never obtain the tax credit, merely simply because of the savings in property power expenses.

Metal roofing installation upgrades contain “cool metal roofing”, a solid, excellent looking metal roofing solution that saves up to 40% on annual power expenses depending on where you live. The secret to this metal roof’s ability to save power lies in its finish. The typical dark asphalt roof traps heat inside the residence. Basic metal roofing that is unpainted reflects the solar power your asphalt roof would normally absorb. Houses in warmer climates are finest suited to granular coated (pre-painted) metal roofing that reflects solar energy and cools the home by re-emitting absorbed solar radiation. Finest of all, metal roofing is designed from recycled materials, and metal roofing installation can be accomplished directly over your asphalt roof. Overall, metal roofing:

· Reduces landfill waste

· Gives a quicker installation

· Supplies numerous years of environmentally responsible roofing

· Is maintenance-no cost

· Adds beauty and value to your property

· Gives a Limited Lifetime Warranty

· Is expected to last a lot more than 150 years

If you are ready to transform your house employing beautiful, power efficient, lengthy-lasting metal roofing, these days is a wonderful day to begin.

Far more Metal Roof Articles

The post The Latest Trends in Metal Roofing appeared first on GF Sprague | Roofing, Gutter, WIndow, Chimney, Ice Dam-Snow Removal, and Home Improvement Contractor | Massachusetts.

Above all other decissions to make when picking your new roof type, you ought to choose on a budget.  How significantly are you willing to invest on a new roof.   On a typical 1700-2100 sq. ft. roof (we will use this sq.ft. as an average for all comparisons), you can expect to invest k – k for the different kinds of asphalt shingles.  For concrete tile anticipate to invest between k and k depending on specifics.  Slate tile can run as a lot as k depending on the top quality of the slate.  Steel roofing might set you back k, alluminum around k-k, and copper can k+.  Of course these figures are just a generalization.  The region you live in will play a huge factor in the price, but these figures will give you an notion of what you will be seeking at as far as comparing the various sorts and supplies.  Also, keep in mind that there is usually an extra charge for tearing off your old roof (normally k+) and for any repairs that might be necessary for the supporting structure underneath the old roof (this could vary a lot depending on the shape your home is in).

Next you need to compare the high quality and durabillity of the diverse materials as nicely as the cosmetic properties.

Asphalt shingles will last the least quantity of time but are usually the cheapest.  They tend to dry out with the sun, become brittle, and break apart in the elements.  Depending on the area in which you live, this can occur at a significantly a lot more rapid pace.  If you live in Florida a “20 yr.” asphalt shingle may well be lucky to survive 8-10yrs but the same home with the exact same shingle in Montana may extremely nicely be conflict free of charge for the full 20yrs+.  Asphalt shingles (especially darker colors) also tend to absorb heat, generating your attic hotter in the summer,thus, generating your A/C work harder and costing a lot more funds.  A three tab asphalt shingle is the bottom of the barrel when it comes to durability and cosmetic appearance (though, the cosmetic factor is strictly my opinion).  An architectual asphalt shingle is usually longer lasting, and thought to be a lot more fashionable than the 3 tab shingles. 

Next are metal roofs.  The most widespread metal roofs are steel, aluminum, and copper.  All metal roofing materials will typically last longer than any asphalt shingles.  They deal with high winds far much better than asphalt shingles as well, and frequently hold up better than any tile roofs in hurricanes.  Metal is noted, also, for reflecting heat much better than asphalt.  Steel is the cheapest metal roofing material, but keep in mind that steel rusts.  It will typically last as long as aluminum but considerably far more maintainence is needed.  Aluminum is a great choice thinking about the small quantity of additional price compared to steel.  It also demands small maintainence.  Copper is, by far, thought of as a a lot far more prestigious searching roof.  It is also a lot far more costly.  There have been reports of copper roofing lasting over 100yrs. with really small maintainence.  If you can afford the expense, copper is the most be concerned free of charge and 1 of the longest lasting roofs you can put on your residence.

Tile roofs are generally thought to be a lovely selection for a roof.  You can expect a long life (often longer than the structure of the property) with any tile roof barring any out of the ordinary circumstances.  Tile roofs are fire resistent and require little maintainence.  Concrete tile is generally the least expensive tile roof.  The benifits of concrete tiles are that they can be formed to give the appearence of wooden shaker shingles among a lot of other things whilst maintaining the durability of a tile kind roof.  Concrete tile will (depending on the other added materials) at times fade in color and want to be painted over time.  Clay tile normally retains is color (though, frequently limited to couple of color alternatives) due to the truth of it becoming fired into the clay during production.  Slate tile is possibly the most pricey roofing material you will commonly find.  It will usually out last the rest of your property, and is frequently thought of to be the most beautiful of all roofing materials.  It, too, is virtually maintainence no cost.  It comes in a selection of colors (although, limited to nature) and can be laid in a variety of patterns and styles.

In conclusion, the cost of roofing greatly reflects the duration of which it will last and cosmetics of the item.  You must decide what is crucial to you. 

Don’t forget to speak with a number of roofing companies and request estimates from as many as you can before commiting to one.  You will typically find 1 to be far various from yet another.  Also, be sure to ask the quantity of experience that every single organization has at installing the particular sort of roof that you desire.  You can use the longest lasting supplies in the world but if not installed effectively, they may not last a year without having leaking. 

Much more Metal Roof Articles

The post Planning on a new roof for your home? appeared first on GF Sprague | Roofing, Gutter, WIndow, Chimney, Ice Dam-Snow Removal, and Home Improvement Contractor | Massachusetts.