Get matched with top roofers in Upper Saddle River, NJ

Yes, copper roof strips can help prevent shingle damage and are an alternative to algae-resistant shingles. They work in a similar way: they release copper ions that interfere with algae, moss, and other plant growth. Algae feeds on limestone in your roof shingles, and moss can uplift shingles and increase the risk of leaks. If you have issues with algae or moss on your roof, copper roof strips can help avoid damage.

Roofing estimates and inspections are not the same thing. Roofing inspections (whether done with a drone or by the traditional method) help you find any damage or defects on a roof. You will pay a set fee for a roofing inspection and use it to get certification or to determine whether repair or replacement is necessary. Beware of unsolicited contractors coming to your home and offering a so-called free roof inspection—these are often scams.

Roofing estimates, on the other hand, are typically free and offered by a roofing company hoping to earn your business. Some roofing estimates are performed with drones, while other companies will still opt to send people up onto the roof. Either way, the estimate is for roof repair or replacement costs the company wants you to hire them for.

When choosing a roofer to install a green roof, look for someone with experience who specializes in green roofs. Rather than looking for a standard roofing contractor, you'll want to find a company that specifically offers green roofs. That company will have people on staff, such as a landscape architect, who understand the types of plants that thrive on rooftops.

While the terms are often used interchangeably, wood shakes and wood shingles have notable differences, primarily in their manufacturing and appearance. Wood shingles are machine-cut on both sides, resulting in a smooth, thin, and uniform product. In contrast, wood shakes are typically hand-split or sawed on only one side, giving them a more textured, natural, and rustic appearance. Due to these manufacturing differences, shakes are generally thicker, heavier, and less uniform than shingles. They are also more expensive. Homeowners seeking a more rustic aesthetic often choose shakes, while those preferring a more uniform look may opt for shingles. Both are installed in an overlapping pattern to create a durable, weather-resistant roof.