New Jersey Roofing Contractors

About New Jersey Roofing

With more than 3,000 roofers registered in the state, homeowners have plenty of options for everything ranging from maintenance and inspections to renovations. Trade associations covering the industry include the North East Roofing Contractors Association.

Typical Climate In New Jersey

On the whole, New Jersey maintains a largely moderate climate, experiencing cold winters and warm, humid summers. Hills from the Adirondacks run into the state's Northwest corner, cooling temperatures slightly throughout the year there. Using coastal Atlantic City as a guide, average temperatures range from 31 degrees in January to 75 degrees in July. Bordered by the Atlantic Ocean and Delaware River, coastal New Jersey has felt the brunt of occasional hurricanes and violent spring storms over the years, though the former not with regularity.

Typical Climate In New Jersey

Because of the high humidity, discoloration of roof shingles from the growth of algae or moss is a significant problem in the state if left untreated. Tending to show up as black streaks, a particular form of algae, Gloeocapsa Magma, grows rapidly, feeding off the limestone used in roofing shingles. Lichen appears white, green or brown and looks like an array of lilly pads. Moss is a fuzzy green mass. The effects of these nuisances--which are quite cleanable--are minimizing not only the home's curb appeal but the life of the roof as well.

Licensing In New Jersey

Roofing contractors do not need to be licensed in Jersey, though contractors who build new homes, or handle home repairs or improvements do need to be registered with the state Division of Consumer Affairs.

Legal Issues And Complaints

A recent case in New Jersey involved a construction accident in which a general laborer working on a roofing job fell through the roof when it collapsed beneath him, causing multiple injuries. The property tenant had abandoned the property, and the landlord had undertaken a major renovation. The landlord alleged no responsibility because it wasn't involved in the work itself. However, attorneys for the plaintiff posited that the landlord was acting as its own general contractor, meaning it had the standard OSHA and liability responsibilities. The plaintiff received $825,000 in a pretrial settlement.

Energy Efficient Roofs In New Jersey

ENERGY STAR lists 10 roofing partners in New Jersey: Andek Corp., Barrett Co., Englert Inc., GAF Materials Corp., Global Encasement Inc., Karnak Corp., Merchant and Evans Inc., Palmer Asphalt Co., SOLEC Solar Energy Corp. and United Asphalt Co. These companies offer a diverse series of products that meet ENERGY STAR standards. Certification from ENERGY STAR requires meeting its standard for reflectance on initial installation as well as after three years of weathering. Reflective roofs can save money on energy bills by minimizing a facility's heat gain.

Unusual Roofs In New Jersey

Though built in the 1950s, architect Louis I. Kahn's Trenton Bath House in Trenton boasts a modern style. Using timber roofs, the building caps stocky concrete piers with pyramid timber roofs, creating four square pavilion-like spaces.