Tarrytown Roofing owner-operator, James Kuntz recently participated in PT50-Austin Instagram takeover. During the takeover James walked viewers through the upgrades he made to his own home during his roof replacement. Want to know what – and why – the owner of a roofing company upgrades on his own home’s roof? We’re here to tell you.
Premium Roof Options
High Profile Ridge:
As you can see in the video, a high profile ridge is simply a ridge cap along the peak of your roof. It adds a distinctive visual element that enhances your home’s silhouette. If you’re looking to sell your home, this can be an important finishing touch that increases curb appeal for potential buyers.
Comprehensive Roof Ventilation:
Proper roof ventilation is crucial for longevity. An effective system combines passive and active elements. The following ventilation components work together to prevent heat buildup (key in the extreme heat of Austin), reduce moisture accumulation, and extend the life of both your roof and attic structures.
- Soffit Intakes allow fresh air to enter the attic space
- Active Ventilation like the one James opted for, includes solar-powered fans like Solar Royal which efficiently remove hot air from the attic
- Whirlybirds are wind-powered turbine vents that spin with natural air currents to continuously draw hot, humid air from the attic without requiring electricity
- Ridge Vents help create natural airflow along the roof’s peak
- Roof Vents help ventilate moisture from bathrooms and kitchens, decreasing heat and the opportunity for mold to grow
How to Protect Your Roof From Water Damage
Pipe Boots:
A pipe boot creates a watertight seal where plumbing vent pipes exit through your roof and provide key functions, including:
- Waterproofing prevents leaks around roof penetrations
- Weather protection shields openings from rain and snow
- Flexible sealing accommodates pipe movement with rubber or neoprene collars
- Base flashing directs water away from vulnerable points
So why are pipe boots important? Failed boots are a common source of roof leaks.
And standard pipe boots need replacement every five years (which can be easy to forgot) due to sun exposure UV damage – especially in places with lots of sun like Central Texas. However, premium pipe boots, like the one that James opted for, offer significantly longer lifespans, reducing maintenance needs and improving the lifespan of your roof.
Crickets:
Crickets are triangular structures installed behind chimneys and other roof projections. The purpose of a cricket is to divert water flow down the roofline, preventing water accumulation on your roof that cause damage to your roof, its underlying structure and your home.
Class 4 Roofing and Advantages
A Class 4 roofing system is the gold standard for asphalt shingle roofs. They provide the highest impact resistance rating available. What’s that mean for your – and James’ – roof? Maximum durability. Class 4 roofs can withstand severe weather conditions, including roof damage from up to 2” hail. In addition to superior protection against hail and storm damage, Class 4 roofing systems offer extended roof lifespan even in harsh weather regions.
Due to their superior damage resistance, many insurance companies offer substantial discounts for homes with Class 4 roofing systems. Insurance providers see these upgrades as risk reduction investments that lower their potential claim costs. Discounts typically range from 5-30% off the roof portion of your homeowner’s insurance premium, depending on your insurer and location. (Talk to your insurance provider about your policy.) The long-term savings from these discounts can significantly offset the higher initial cost of premium roofing materials, making Class 4 systems a financially sound investment for many homeowners.
If you upgrade to a Class 4 roof, remember to notify your insurance company within one year of installation to claim your discount. You’ll likely need to provide documentation from your roofing contractor certifying the Class 4 rating and installation details.
A high-quality roofing system does more than just protect your home – it enhances curb appeal, improves energy efficiency, and can save you money on insurance. Premium roofing features are especially important for high-end homes where both aesthetics and functionality matter. Not sure what upgrades make the most sense for your home? Get in touch with our roofing experts to inspect your property and suggest what upgrades would work best for your home.
