Traditionally speaking, the cost of roofing shingles has gone through the roof in recent years. All the oil needed to make and ship asphalt shingles explains the double-digit hikes we’ve seen in some cases. GAF-ELK, one of the top brands of shingles we use, has seen a price increase of 5 to 8 percent, while other popular brands like Tamko have gone up in price by as much as 15 percent. All this puts a strain on contractors who really don’t want to increase their price, but may have no choice. Luckily, we offer several different brands of shingles, giving you the freedom to choose what you pay.

Affordable Shingles In Kansas City

Consumer Reports has identified some low-priced bargains that offer the same caliber of quality, without the higher prices. Asphalt shingles from CertainTeed and Owens Corning are among the top performers in Consumer Reports roofing tests, but still cost half the price of other shingle brands. You can get 100 square feet for about $100 in some cases. Best of all, you can still get the attractive layered look and durability of architectural shingles for this price.

Hire A Trustworthy Kansas City Roofer

Hiring a contractor you can trust is another way to get a deal on a new roof in Kansas City this summer. Consult friends and neighbors who they used. Look online for contractors that offer customer referrals. Only settle for a roofer that is licensed, insured and rated by the Better Business Bureau. Speak to a couple different companies before making your final choice. (Don’t feel bad: we all understand this is just part of the KC roofing industry!)

Call Eclipse Roofing at 913-262-4700 for a free no-obligation quote.

We promise exceptional service and quality workmanship. About 99% of our business comes from referrals and we pride ourselves on developing lasting relationships with customers. (In KC, you never know when you’ll need a sudden hail storm repair!) Perhaps this is why we win the Angie’s List Super Service Award every year. If you need a new roof in Kansas City this summer, we look forward to hearing from you!

No one wants to have the one house on the block that sticks out like a sore thumb. Take a wander down your street and have a look at what you see. It can be hard for the untrained eye to know what to look for, so here is a quick guide to the different types of roofing in Kansas City.

When you see a roof made from asphalt that is totally flat, this probably signifies an older roof. This is the classic 3-tab shingle that was popular over the past several decades. These shingles are very affordable, but typically only last 20 years or so.

These shingles are also made from asphalt, but they are called “architectural shingles.” They have a 3-D effect that most homeowners find very aesthetically pleasing. They also come in a wide range of colors from white and green to blue and brown, so you’re bound to find a shade that appeals to you. These shingles can survive up to 40 years, depending on the weather and manufacturer. We like to go with GAF/ELK and CertainTeed, as these two brands stand by their warranties.

Cedar Shake is not too popular in Kansas City, but you may see an older home or two that has it. People buy this type of roof for the historic look, but they generally only last 15 years or so. Wood is susceptible to insects, hail and rot, which makes it not the best choice for KC homeowners.

Metal is strong, durable and lightweight — lasting 50 years or more. When you buy a metal roof, you are pretty much set for life! Yet, not everyone likes the look of metal for a residential home. You’ll see a lot of commercial buildings, garages, barns and sheds with metal roofs, but not as many homes.

Tile is another style of roof that you may see in Kansas City, but you won’t likely see very often. These tiles look breathtaking, but they are easily cracked and shattered by hail or cold weather. Sometimes you will see a roof that looks like it’s made from tile, but it’s actually made of metal. While it’s heavy and expensive, a goof tile rough lasts 50 years in warmer climates.

Some homeowners opt for slate due to its gorgeous look and durability. Unlike shingles, this material is fireproof. Slate is the most expensive type of roof you can buy and it may require additional roofing structures to hold up the hefty weight of the stone.

We come across many different types of roofing in Kansas City. Maybe you are looking to construct an all-new roof or perhaps you just need to re-roof the old roof. Either way, knowing what you want ahead of time can help move your project along quicker.

Roofing Styles

• Flat – These old roofs are not very popular in modern day, but can be easy to put up. On the downside, it can also accumulate water or dirt. It also costs more to service a roof without drainage.
• Sloping – This is the most common type of residential roof, as they let water and debris run right off.
• Gable  –  Homes that appear to have “multiple roofs” are called gabled and they are very popular too.
• Salt Box – A salt box roof is short on one side and long on the other, allowing water to run down an uneven side.
• Gambrel – Barns often have this type of roof that is almost octagonal around the top.
• Mansard – This roof often extends down below the uppermost windows on the home and is a historic style.
• Pitched – Steep a-frame roofs can be dangerous to roof, so not many contractors are willing to touch them. However, Eclipse Roofing specializes in this type of roofing job.

Roofing Materials

• Asphalt – These are by far the most common type of shingle. They are affordable, durable and last up to 40 years.
  
• Cedar Shake – These shingles are very attractive, but only last 15-20 years and are susceptible to insects and rot.
• Tile – This material is also very handsome, although it is heavy and more expensive. A good roof lasts 50 years.
• Slate – Durable, waterproof and fireproof, slate is a gorgeous look, but is the most expensive type of material.
• Metal – Metal is strong, durable and lightweight. It can last 50 years, but not everyone likes the look of it.

We specialize in affordable, long-lasting asphalt shingles that come in multiple shapes, colors and styles.

Roofing Brands

• GAF/ELK – Founded in 1886, GAF/ELK is the largest manufacturer of shingles in America with $3 billion in annual sales. They have received many positive accolades from builders and contractors alike. Their Timberline shingles are an especially popular type of roofing in Kansas City.
• CertainTeed – Founded in 1904, CertainTeed is a leading manufacturer in shingles within North America, employing more than 6,000 employees at 65 manufacturing facilities across the country. They are another name we trust. You’ll see their Landmark line of architectural shingles around Kansas City quite often.

We deal with only the best manufacturers and are certified to install their products, so your warranty will be upheld. Please call to schedule a free estimate for your KC roofing job.

As you search for expert roofers in KC, you may come across several different certifying programs. One of the best out there is the program sanctioned by leading shingle manufacturer GAF/ELK. “Because of GAF’s stringent standards, only the top 3% of all roofing contractors have qualified as Master Elite™ contractors,” the company states on their website. In this blog, we’ll answer some common questions you may have in separating the amateurs from the pros!

What Does “Master Elite Certification” Mean?

To receive the “Master Elite” certification, KC roofers must…

• Be fully licensed in the state to perform roofing work.
• Be adequately insured, for consumer protection.
• Have a proven reputation for providing quality service.
• Commit to ongoing education and professional training.

Is My Roofer A Certified Expert?

Sure, anyone can SAY they are GAF/ELK Master Elite certified, but don’t just take their word for it! You can easily verify a roofer’s credentials on the GAF website, simply by typing in the contractor’s ID # or Phone #.

What Else Should I Look For?

In addition to the expertise and consumer protections provided by hiring a certified roofing contractor, you can also protect yourself by assessing reviews from members of the community. Angie’s List is considered to be one of the better websites because they verify the validity of each review before publishing. You can search for KC roofers using a free trial. (Note: Eclipse has been recognized by the Angie’s List community as a “Super Service” award winner!)

Call 913-262-4700 for a free roofing estimate!