It has been another great year at Metal Roof Specialties and it can only be attributed to YOU - our customers, family and friends.  We want to thank you all for working with our company on your metal projects and look forward to a continued relationship for many years to come.  Thank you again!  Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Tax Credit Crunch Time!

We are now down to 2 days to get your metal roofing orders in for your primary residence to qualify for the up to $1500 Energy Savings Tax Credit.  Orders have to be in to our office by 2:00 Thursday, December 16th to get them delivered before the end of the year.  If you need help with your roofing project, give us a call and we can get you going on that extra savings!  Even if your project is not for your primary residence, all metal orders need to be in by tomorrow to make the final delivery run on Monday/Tuesday of next week.

Last Chance For The 2009/2010 Tax Credit!

The Energy Savings Tax Credit for the 2010 tax season is near the end.  To qualify for the credit, you need to have your new metal roofing installed on your primary residence before December 31, 2010.  We can help you get the materials in time, but you only have until December 13th to place those orders with most of our manufacturers, that will give them time to produce the materials before they take off for the Holiday Season.  You could get 30% of your materials purchase price back (up to $1500) on your 2010 taxes, but we only have 7 days to get the orders in.  Give us a call and we can get you started!

APPLE CUP 2010!

This should say enough!

Gobble Gobble Gobble

We just wanted to wish you a Happy Thanksgiving from all of us here at Metal Roof Specialties.  As the year's end draws close, we once again realize just how thankful we are for each and every one of our customers who have become a part of our family, and although we will not be sitting down at the turkey table with each of you, we are grateful!  Have a wonderful time however you celebrate!

It's Not Too Late!

There are 42 days left in 2010, which means you have exactly 6 weeks to get your metal roofing installed to qualify for the up to $1500 energy saving tax credit.  If you are thinking about a metal roof for your primary residence, you can save yourself 30% of the materials purchase price (up to the $1500 maximum) if you get it done before the end of the year.  Let us know if we can provide you with the materials and get you going on a "green" roof that will last a lifetime!

Tax Credit Countdown....50 Days

If you are thinking about a new metal roof for your primary residence and you act now and the roof is installed before December 31, 2010, you may qualify for the energy saving tax credit of up to $1500.  We have about 35 working days left in the year and we want to get you in our schedule so you can get that money in your pocket from your 2010 Income Taxes. Give us a call or click here and we will call you to schedule your free estimate and explain how that money can get in your hands!

Metal - The Product Of Choice

My recent trip to Metalcon in Las Vegas was very enlightening. Metalcon is the annual International convention for the metal construction industry. This was their 20th anniversary. I have been involved with nearly every Metalcon but have been a consistent instructor and presenter for over 10 years. The most significant thing I took from the program this year was the clear recognition metal roofing is the number one choice of performance exterior products. Of course I have always believed metal was the best but when another non-biased and significant industry also feels the same way, that is enlightening!

As I am sure you will agree, Solar energy is quickly becoming a much higher priority at the Local, State, Federal and International level. This energy source is so attractive because it is free, dependable and abundant. We are truly just seeing a “tip of the iceberg” on what this energy source can provide for us. The Solar industry is very focused on the roofing industry because roofs are the most practical and available foundation for solar collection devices. The obvious roofing choice for the solar industry is metal. Yes, metal. That is simply because metal is the only practical roofing material that will outlast the solar collector material! Of course Slate will also outlast the solar material but remember I said practical.

There are a growing number of solar product manufacturers that are developing and building products that can easily be incorporated into metal roof systems. This industry will explode in the coming years and it is safe to say solar will be a significant part of the construction and remodeling industry from this point forward. Solar does have a long way to go and as with all technological advancements, a more attractive price point as the technology becomes more widespread and developed. All the more reason to make the choice and go with metal now. Why replace your roof with a non metal product only to have to replace it again when you incorporate solar in the future? And you will likely incorporate solar. Metal just makes sense. It always has, and this is just another significant benefit supporting that statement.

I am so encouraged by our industry and the progress by the leading manufacturers and industry associations within it. It is so enlightening to be surrounded by people dedicated to make our lives better while ensuring a more sustainable and friendly environment for the generations to follow. I can guarantee I could not say that if I was involved with any other roofing/siding product. Thank goodness I became involved in the metal industry, the product of choice. - Posted by Jerry Iselin, President, Metal Roof Specialties, Inc.

REPAIR and CLEANING SERVICES!

We are officially taking on metal roof repairs and cleaning.  Metal roofing is meant to last a lifetime, and with the proper cleaning and maintenance, it will do just that.  We are here to keep your roof water tight and free from debris, just give us a call to talk about your specific needs.

METALCON - Las Vegas 2010

Jerry is at Metalcon in Las Vegas this week where he is speaking for the MRA (Metal Roofing Alliance) on Residential Re-Roofing, specifically, "Applying metal roofing over existing roof materials".  While he is there he is focusing on finding out the best applications of solar panels on metal roofing and the options for residents in Washington that make the most sense financially and long term.  Jerry will return mid next week and we look forward to sharing with our customers the new options they have when it comes to solar and metal.

Did You Hear - OCTOBER SALE!

Now's the time to get that roofing project done!  Covering the cabin, dog run, wood shed, garden shed, walkway, or even the outhouse, pricing couldn't be lower.  Our "Ron and Don" special pricing guarantees we will not be beat and no matter how small or large your project, we've got you covered! Did I mention....the boss is away, so if you need materials stop in for the "Ron and Don and KENI" special....for a limited time of course!

Homeowners: Protect Yourself

Two weeks ago a good friend of my family had a horrible accident while doing a "side" job for a local handyman.  I would share the details but since this will end up in the courts, I will just say he was severely injured, has had two surgeries already and will not be able to return to any kind of work for many months.  UNFORTUNATELY, and this is the part that homeowners need to heed:  The company he was working for was not insured, did not have L&I and as of now, it looks like they were not paying into unemployment. What this means, the homeowners are being sued for the damages and their homeowners insurance (thank goodness they had insurance) will probably end up responsible for the hospital bills and other costs associated with the injuries. In the end, this will cost all homeowners as these incidents lead to much higher costs.  It is very important to check any company you allow to work on your property for the proper insurance and employee coverages.  It is actually illegal to work as a company without the proper licenses and insurances but in these hard times, it is something some employers are willing to forgo to help bring their costs down so they can have the lowest bids.  Protect yourself and help make our work environment save and fair for all employees.

RON AND DON SPECIAL!

For the month of October we are offering the lowest materials price possible for 16" wide Skyline by ASC.  Skyline has proven to be an outstanding residential standing seam product for our area and we have set the price lower than it was in 2005 due to special pricing from the manufacturer!  We are calling it the "Ron and Don Special" (you may have heard about us on KIRO 97.3 radio during the Ron and Don Show) and it will effect materials sales as well as installation packages.

If you were quoted an installation package recently, please give us the chance to re-quote your project with our new lower price.

If you are looking for materials or a complete materials package, "Our price can't be beat and we will not be undersold!" says owner Jerry Iselin.  As with any price comparison, we will need to see written quotes and this offer is on all orders placed between October 11, 2010 and October 31, 2010, previously placed orders do not apply.

With this new lower pricing and the up to $1500 tax credit which expires 12/31/2010, this really is going to be the lowest price through the end of the year and most likely throughout 2011. Give us a call or email us at jerry@metalroofspecialties.com and we will prove our price simply can't be beat and we will not be under sold!

Metal Roofing in New Mexico!

Straight from Metal Roof Country.  I just got back from a most glorious week in Red River, New Mexico.  I thought if I posted a picture of the amazing cabin, one of the originals in the area, with its cute new metal roof, I could justify blogging about my adventure.  Actually, in the area everything is clad with metal, new and old, big, small, over-the-top and even the outhouses (thank goodness we had indoor plumbing!). I spent the days hiking and fishing and the nights watching the deer (11 at our peak) and the big black bear that visited us 3 nights in a row. The elevation is at just over 10,000 feet, so snow was already starting to dust the hill tops, and by Christmas, they can expect several feet to be resting on their roofs.  Metal is a must in Red River, for many of the same reasons it makes so much sense in Washington: tree debris; snow; large amounts of rainfall; and winds.  Now that I am back....let's work on getting metal roofing for your project!

To Fir or not to Fir?

We get that question all the time.  Adding firring to your metal roofing project depends on several factors, but often it comes down to cost.  In many cases we can roof right over existing composition shingles or torch-down type roofing and save cost on disposal and also save space in the landfills but other times firring is necessary.  We will add firring on top of a composition or torch-down type roof that is not even or does not lay flat or to help build the pitch of a roof.  Firring is attached directly to the framing of the roof so it also gives us a new solid surface to apply the roofing to.  We will not fir over a wood shake or shingle roof, that must be torn off before reroofing.  When we add firring, we space it according to the metal roofing specifications on span and load tables for your area.  When done correctly, you will be able to walk on the flats of the roofing for cleaning and maintenance.  Talk to us about your specific questions, knowing the "Best" methods for metal installation adds years to your projects longevity.

Raindrops Dripping On Your Head?

The rain is a welcome sight for our dried up lawns and water hungry plants, but if you're getting dripped on while standing in your kitchen you are probably not so happy about the change in the weather! First rains in the early fall often remind us that our roofs might need replacement, something we have not had to think about much over this dry summer. If you are considering a new roof, metal roofing is one of the most cost effective, energy efficient, longest lasting, "green" products on the market and we are the company to get it done right. Our estimates are free and we carry most of the products available in the northwest. Click this link FREE ESTIMATE FORM, complete the request and we will give you a call or email you (your preference) and get you going towards a beautiful new metal roof. Rain in the northwest is inevitable, we just want to make sure it stays OUTSIDE!

Time Is Short For $1500 Tax Credit

Have you used your enegry tax credit for 2009/2010? This credit is good on some approved items which help make your home more energy effiecient, such as metal roofing, doors, windows, insulation and water heaters. Almost all of the metal roofing products we install qualify for the credit so it's like getting a 30% discount (up to $1500) refunded on your 2010 Federal Income Taxes. This credit has not been extended, and as of yet there is no mention from the government for a "new" credit, so once 2010 is over the credit is gone. If you need more information or would like to find out how much this can save you please give us a call. This is good on roof installation packages AND on materials only orders for the Do-It-Yourselfer. You can reach us at 800-310-4120 or 253-926-1633.

Website Is Back!

Our website has been fixed and is back up and running. For a few days you may notice some of the options missing, which we are working to fix as soon as possible. You should be able to navigate through almost everything, but if you have a problem or a question please give us a call. Thank you for your patience and enjoy our new and improved site.

Website Woes

We seem to be having some technical difficulties with our website at www.ilovemetalroofs.com or www.metalroofspecialties.com which may automatically direct you to this blog. Our "techies" are working on the problem, but in the meantime if you would like an estimate or have any metal roofing or siding questions, please give us a call at 253-926-1633 or 800-310-4120. We apologize for any inconvenience and are ready to help with your metal needs.

3/50 Project - Shop local

More and more people are realizing the benefits of shopping locally. This obviously applies to groceries and locally made items, but this can also be a factor when it comes to roofing.
Do research and make sure the products you select are manufactured locally, it helps everyone!

Check out www.the350project.net and learn what your dollars can mean when used locally!

We are proud to shop local!

Do-It-Yourself Project #7 - Paul's Palace

This project is brought to you by Paul - a very good customer of ours. Paul prides himself on his workmanship and makes sure each of his roofs are done correctly with all the right parts and to manufacturer's specifications. His customers continue to be satisfied and thankfully for us,
he comes back for more! Great Work Paul - Keep It Up!

Welcome Home

All this beautiful house needed was a charming new front porch. This residence belongs to a past customer of ours, and although she is not quite ready for a new metal roof, she is thinking ahead and had metal installed on her new entry. Johnny, a long time crew member of ours did an awesome job as usual!

"Professional and pleasant..."

That is exactly what we are going for! We work very hard to make sure your complete roof package is met with knowledgeable and nice staff all along the way and in turn we get to meet and work with amazing people like the Sherman's who are now a part of our family!

Rockets Red Glare

It sounds like we might have a warm and rain free evening for July 4th. That always makes me glad, especially since we have a three-day weekend, but it scares me a little too. Four years ago a garage in my neighborhood (actually one house over behind my street) caught fire from a bottle rocket. It landed on the roof and immediately started burning in a buildup of pine needles. Within a half hour, the fire department was there and able to put out the fire with only minimal damage, but half of the composition roof did have to be replaced. If you live in an area where the celebration might throw sparks your way, please be sure and check out your property before you head off to bed. Smoldering flames in the grass, shrubs, even roof tops can take hours to burn, and by then most of us are in bed. Enjoy the promised nice weekend (according to King 5 this morning!) and have a fun and safe Fourth of July!

The Date Is Set!

We are gearing up for our 2010 Rebuilding Together South Sound project. This year we will be providing and installing a new metal roof to a family who really needs one. We have some other chores to help out with as well so the day will be filled with lots of activity. We look forward to these community projects and bring out the whole "Family"!

The Lowest Bid Probably Costs Us All!

It is important to get a couple of bids for your project - we completely understand that, but when comparing those bids it is just as important to compare not only the product offered, but the overall business services promised.

In the current market in Washington and partially because of the high unemployment rate, roofing "companies" are popping up daily. This would seem completely harmless and a good opportunity for a homeower to take advantage of "lower" prices, but in reality it is hurting everyone, some now and some down the road. How you ask? Contractors who significantly underbid are most likely saving money because they are cheating. They save thousands of dollars by using independent contractors (sometimes day labor, friends, other out of work roofers) and do not pay unemployment taxes, workers' compensation insurance premiums and dodge wage laws. This is illegal in Washington and as a homeowner, you have no recourse if they steal your deposit, leave the job unfinished, or finish a job incorrectly, and as the homeowner you can be sued by an injured worker and held responsible for unpaid insurance premiums and damages.

Taking into account all of the facets of a project bid will help you understand why pricing can be so different from company to company. We have permanent crew members who are legally employed and follow all Washington laws. We provide health insurance, retirement benefits and a safe environment. By asking each of your bidders for documentation to prove their status in Washington and taking some time to check them out with the state, you will potentially save yourself money in your roofing process, and you will save all employees and business owners of Washington in the future.

You Know Who You Are!

Just wanted to express a big THANK YOU to everyone who has "endured" some kind of graduation ceremony over the last couple of weeks. We were very lucky to have our daughter graduate from the University of Washington this weekend, and as usual, the ceremony was long, droll, unentertaining, and did I mention long. Parking was a fiasco and the crowd was overwhelming. BUT, thank goodness for the friends and family that attended. It didn't seem like it would make a difference to my kid, but it did. She mentioned last night just how amazing it was seeing everyone there to support her, and I am sure the other students felt the same way. So, to all who did the right thing, bucked up and gave up a glorius Friday or Saturday to see a neighbor, cousin, friend, grandchild, etc.... graduate, you are outstanding in my book and I am sure you are in their eyes too! You know who you are and you should be proud - that too is a big accomplishment! THANK YOU!

Happy Happy Happy

We could talk all day about how we feel about our work. We strive to make EVERY project an experience that the homeowner will appreciate. Sometimes a project turns out to be a little different than our original plan, but we adjust and persevere. This Thank You is from a wonderful family who's project was just such a project and in the end, this letter says it all. We are happy to add Pat and Terry to our family and are very grateful for their kind words.

Now Is NOT The Time To Skimp

Are you out there getting quotes on a new metal roof for your home? We appreciate the competition, that is what makes this a great country to live in. We just want you to understand that skimping on quality will make your investment worth much less in the long run. We consider metal roof and siding installations an art. Our crew members have been with us many years and have honed their skills on over 1,000 METAL roofing and siding projects. We want your metal roof to last a lifetime and the installation is the key! We also want you to know we will be here if you have any problems with the roof or siding we have installed. Shopping for the best price means shopping for a complete and professional roof package. There is so much more to the price of the roof than just the bottom line.

Estimate - Estimate - We've Got Your Estimate!

Need an estimate for a new metal roof? Just click on our free estimate form or give us a call at 800-310-4120.
FREE ESTIMATE FORM

Mix It Up!

Metal siding is such an obvious choice for this area because of its long life span and wear- ability, but maybe your home is not ready for a completely modern look. There are so many options for siding, how about mixing it up a little. Combining metal with other products such as cedar, cement products or even standard sheet siding will give your home a new feel. The possibilities are endless with metal because of the broad selection of panel profiles and the outstanding color choices! If you have an idea or want us to throw out a few, just give us a call (253-926-1633 or 800-310-4120) and we can get you started. The house pictured was completed in 2004 using ASC Nu-Wave in Weathered Copper as siding on the lower level.

Spring Cleaning

It's time for the Great Northwest Winds to kick up and clear your trees of loose branches, needles, sticky cherry and plum blossoms and pollen. Those of course will all land right on your metal roof. Spring is a great time to get on the roof and check for any winter damage. Check carefully around the chimneys, skylights and any plumbing penetrations to make sure debris is not wedged or built up around the flashings. This debris will just collect more debris and so on until there's enough to dam up the water and cause leaking. Roof penetrations are always a suspect spot if you have a leak and keeping them clear is the best way to maintain the flashing integrity. If your roof needs "washing" - check out Cleaning a Metal Roof for manufacturer's recommendations. I can't promise spring cleaning your roof is as fun as spring cleaning the closets...but it might be more important!

Happy Birthday Blog!

It's hard to believe we have been posting to this blog for a year already. 73 blogs - some fun, some informative and a few to let you know who we are. We have had visitors from across the United States, but are really here to help those in the Pacific Northwest understand and appreciate metal roofing and siding. We have picked up a few new followers (we always welcome more!) and we have also added our blog to our website at www.ILoveMetalRoofs.com. The way I look at it - a year with the blog means another year with the Company. WOOHOO! Do you have a favorite post? Let me know - maybe it can be resurrected for those who might have missed it. Thank you to all who visit our site!

The Fundamental Roof

Your roof selection is as important as the foundation your house is built on. Even if you take away thinking "green" or "sustainable" or wanting to gather water or solar energy, you should still seriously consider a metal roof. Roof systems are required by building codes to be resistant to wind, impact and fire and they need to protect your home from the environment. They should be durable and weathertight and maintained in some way or another. With that being said, metal roofing, installed correctly of course, goes above all building code requirements and will keep your house safe from the elements. Metal roofing is designed to be extremely weathertight and durable when used and installed correctly and needs minimal yearly maintenance. Your roof is a fundamental part of your home, and without a good roof the value and longevity are compromised.

Homeowners Association vs Metal Roofing

The history of Homeowner's Associations (HOA's) dates to the 1960's and they really took off in the late 1970's. Back then metal roofing was limited to primarily through fastener (barn style) panels and some standing seam. Either way the look was long straight metal panels not necessarily as pleasing to the eye as wood shake, tile or slate roofing. In the 70's and 80's, shake, tile and slate were about as fashionable as you could get, and HOA's preferred their look and resale value over composition and other less expensive options. Therefore, CC&R's (Convenants, Conditions and Restrictions) were written to include very specific roofing choices - mostly shake, tile and slate, excluding metal or composition roofing.

Now times have changed. Metal roofing comes in many styles, including those that mimic shake, tile and slate. Even the new standing seam panels are used on some of the highest end homes in our area. And funny thing, those roofs put on in the 70's and 80's are starting to fail. Although attractive, not very durable for this area. Not so funny, HOA's are finding it hard to accept metal roofing as an alternative to the roofing in their "original" CC&R's.

That's where we come in. We are here to help educate HOA's about the "vast" choices of metal roofing with several reasons to make the switch. Most have Energy Star Ratings and qualify for the Energy Tax Credit. Metal roofing is made from recycled materials and completely recycleable at lifes end. Most come with extended warranties (up to Lifetime) and last far longer than any other roofing choice. Their maintenance is minimal and in this area stand up to moss, tree pollen and pine needles! They maintain their look for years and years to come without chipping, fading, warping, cracking or breaking (like some of the other choices!).

If you are an HOA or a homeowner trying to plead your case to an HOA, please let us help you. It is very hard to dispute the benefits of metal roofing, and once you compare it to roofing in your CC&R, it becomes obvious that the options today stand ready to replace the options of yesteryear.

Sweet and Simple to Sublime!

It's not the size of the job that matters! It all comes down to what you are looking for. When you drive in the driveway, what is it you want to see? How many hours do you want to spend "maintaining" and do you really want to go through the replacement process again in 10 to 20 years? If you want to see the longlasting, low maintenance beauty of a metal roof....we can help you. Whether your job is big or small, sweet, simple or sublime, we can help you! Your project is as important to us as it is to you!

Going up Up UP

All of our manufacturer's have reported additional price increases expected to happen in March. We just had an increase on February 1st, but we were able to absorb most of the cost with only a few products increasing slightly. It looks like the next increase will effect all panels and flashings. These increases are being driven by higher raw material costs for iron ore, metallurgical coal and scrap, as well as the limited amount of import steel coming into the US. All quotes currently outstanding are good through March 14, 2010, and will have to be revised after that date.

Iron Ox EXPOSED!

The top picture is a comparison of ASC Building Products IRON OX metal roofing/siding panel. This panel is cold-rolled steel, and meant to weather like old barn roofing. The panel on the top left is right off the roll form machine, and the rusting was caused by the flat sheet being outside. The top middle panel was outside for 1 month in the middle of our hot summer, with very little moisture. The panel on the top right (and in the bottom picture) was outside from July to December, laying flat on the ground, over some wood. Interesting fact, both sides of the panel have virtually the same amount of rusting - so my hypothesis, it is the moisture in the air as much as the moisture on the panel (unscientific of course!). The rust color is amazing, but do plan for the run-off. Check out the link to Country Rustic Corrugated, this is a painted panel created to resemble the rusted Iron Ox. Country Rustic is a great alternative if rust run-off is a problem.

How Did We Do?

Did we install your new metal roof?
Did we provide you with a materials package and you did it yourself?
How is your roof holding up?
How did our crews do?
Did you feel high pressure during the sales portion of your project?
Do you have suggestions for the wary?

If you have worked with our company and want to share your experience, your comments will help others who are trying to find a metal roofing company they can trust. We hope you enjoyed your total experience, but we honestly want to hear from you either way!

2010 Tax Credit

The Tax Credit is carried over for this year, so if you did not take advantage of it in 2009, how about letting us show you what you qualify for in 2010. Here is the 2009 IRS Residential Energy Credit Form (Form 5696 - click here for link to IRS web page). This credit is for up to $1500 and most of the metal roofing we sell qualifies!

Steel Prices Going Up

Just a little heads up, steel prices are set to go up between 5% and 8% in February 2010. ASC Building Products has given us some warning, and usually the other manufacturers follow.

If your ready for a new roof or want some materials, call us now and get locked into the current pricing.

Back To Work!

The holiday is over...and the time off has come to an end. We are ready to take on your project, big or small. Just need materials, we can handle that too. Our show room is all spruced up for the new year and our roofers are excited for our upcoming projects. Even with the rains, we can tear-off your old roof and put on a new one without interrupting the inside of your home in the least. Give us a call or stop by and we can get you started. Happy New Year and our Best Wishes!