Supplies in place before a roof replacement in Baltimore County, Maryland.

A new roof is a big investment, and many homeowners are hesitant to commit to the cost and inconvenience associated with roof replacement. However, paying for costly roof repairs over the years will end up costing more than a roof replacement. A damaged roof can also affect the structural stability of your home and increase your risk of leaks, mold and mildew, water damage, high energy bills, and pest or animal infestations. A roof replacement offers peace of mind and long-term protection for the safety, comfort, and value of your home. Preparing for a roof replacement and understanding what to expect from the process will make it go more smoothly for you and your family. Here is what you can expect when you invest in roof replacement in Baltimore County, MD.

How Do You Know if You Need a New Roof?

Most roofing systems last 20-50 years, depending on the materials they are made out of, the regional climate, and whether they have gotten regular care and maintenance. Avoiding roof repairs will increase your risk of needing a new roof sooner rather than later. You should schedule a roofing inspection every three to four years if your roof is in the latter half of its expected lifespan, and a roofing contractor can determine the condition, structural stability, and safety of your roof. Here are some of the signs you may need a roof replacement:

  • Your roof is over 25 years old.
  • Your roof needs regular repairs that are getting more and more expensive.
  • You have multiple damaged shingles or roofing tiles.
  • The roof has bald spots.
  • The roof is sagging or buckling.
  • There is more than one leak or a major leak.
  • There is a major pest or animal infestation.
  • There is significant mold or mildew.
  • The roof has major storm damage or fallen branches have punctured the roof membrane.
  • The roof is structurally unsound and could cause issues with your home’s safety.

How to Find a Qualified Roofing Contractor

If you need a roof inspection, repairs, or a new roof installation, it’s important to hire an experienced, qualified roofing contractor. Your contractor should be fully licensed and insured, and should have years of experience. You can start by asking friends and family for recommendations. If you are working with other home improvement professionals like an architect or plumber, you can also ask them to recommend a reputable local roofing contractor. Evaluate the contractor’s biography and website to determine how much experience they have and what services they offer. Read through customer reviews and testimonials to make sure they have a good reputation. You can also check their license on the Maryland Home Improvement Commission website and make sure it is valid with no violations or complaints filed. Next, schedule an initial consultation and evaluate the contractor’s communication style and ask any questions you have. You should also get estimates from more than one contractor. When you choose a contractor, be sure to get a contract or scope of work in writing that includes a timeline and cost estimate.

A roofing contractor inspects a roof in Baltimore County, Maryland. Routine inspections can tell you if you need a roof replacement.

Preparing for Roof Replacement

A roof replacement is a complex, noisy, and lengthy process, and you and your family should be prepared. Before work begins, you should move your vehicles out of the garage or driveway and relocate any valuables or fragile items. You should move all toys, bicycles, patio furniture, potted plants, or anything else that could be in the way or get damaged. Remove landscape lighting, security cameras, statues, water features, wind chimes, and anything else that is near or hanging from your roof. You should also cover up plants, your pool or hot tub, and anything else that could be damaged by dust or debris. Mark ponds and sprinklers so the roofing team can avoid them. You should also let your neighbors know that you are having a roof replacement so they can prepare for the dust, noise, and disruption. Other steps you can take to prepare include:

  • Clearing out your attic
  • Protecting the attic floor
  • Securing windows
  • Taking photos, mirrors, and artwork off the walls
  • Securing fragile or valuable items on shelves and tables
  • Plan to have your pets elsewhere or keep them secured whenever workers are on your property

Budgeting for the Cost of Roof Replacement

The cost of your roof replacement will depend on a number of factors: the type of roofing system, the materials used, the architecture of your home, the condition of your existing roof, and the prices in your region. Getting quotes from multiple roofing contractors will help you get a sense of the cost of a roof replacement so that you can budget. If you don’t have the money up front, you can apply for a home improvement loan or construction loan to finance your roof replacement. You can often get roof replacement financing through your bank, credit card company, your local credit union, or a private lender. The average cost of a roof replacement in Maryland is between $15,000-45,000.

The Roof Replacement Process

On the day of your roof replacement, the roofing contractors will need access to the roof and the attic. If you have any special instructions about where they should park or whether they can use your bathroom, make sure they know ahead of time. They should arrange a dumpster rental to collect old roofing materials and debris, and should put down tarps to reduce the mess. They will begin by removing your old roofing materials and they will then inspect your roof deck and flashing. They may need to do minor repairs or replace the roof deck. They will then install the underlayment, which is the protective barrier that prevents moisture and debris from damaging the roof deck. Then they will install shingles, roofing tiles, or the roofing materials. They may need to install or replace vents, fascia, or soffits. They may also need to replace or install a gutter system.

A roof replacement in progress in Baltimore County, Maryland.

What to Expect After Roof Replacement

When the roofing contractors are done with your roof replacement, they should do a walk-through with you so you can inspect their work. They should also go over roofing care and maintenance. They will remove all debris, roofing materials, hardware, tools, equipment, and the dumpster rental. They should also completely clean up after themselves and do a final check for loose nails and other debris. They will also go over your roofing warranty and any labor warranty they offer.

Call for a Free Estimate for Roof Replacement in Baltimore County

If you need to schedule a roof inspection or roof replacement in Baltimore County, Howard County, Harford County, Anne Arundel County, or anywhere else in the Baltimore metropolitan area, our team at Badger Contracting can help. Call us today or contact us online to get a fast, free estimate. We have years of experience and are an employee-owned and operated local business. We offer honest and fair pricing with detailed estimates. We even offer free gutters with every roof replacement or roofing installation. We specialize in windows, roofing, and siding and offer unparalleled craftsmanship and quality products. Call us today to find out how we can improve the comfort and safety of your home.

healthy roof
healthy roof

You can expect colder temperatures and more inclement weather as winter rolls in. Your roof protects you through the winter months, but you may be in trouble if you don’t protect your roof. At Badger Contracting, we understand the importance of roof maintenance and prep.

Repair Your Flashing

One of the first winter maintenance steps is to check your roof’s flashing. Even if you had the correct installation years before, it could become warped over time. If you see any warping or damage, you need to have it fixed as quickly as possible to prevent moisture from entering your roof.

Remove Snow and Debris Promptly

Do not let snow build up on your roof. While the snow may look beautiful, it can also cause issues when left for too long. The weight on your roof may lead to significant damage. When you see snow or ice on the roof, try to remove it as quickly as possible while paying attention to safety. Sometimes it is safer to have the debris removed by a professional.

Additionally, ice can also accumulate in your gutters. You should check your gutters for ice dams regularly. Gutters can struggle to hold the weight of ice and can tear away from your roof, leading to more extensive repairs and costs.

Follow Up After Heavy Winds

When a storm rolls through your area, you will want an inspection performed as soon as the storm passes. After the wind dies, you may see broken, damaged, or missing shingles. When you have vulnerable areas on your roof, you are more likely to have leaks and moisture issues. This can encourage the growth of mold, bacteria, and mildew which can lead to health risks.

If you want to ensure your roof is in the best possible shape for winter, schedule a roof inspection with a trusted professional, like Badger Contracting. We can ensure the work is completed correctly, so you don’t have to worry about the condition of your roof. Contact us today by calling 410-417-6972 or email us for more information!

home maintenance

With winter being around the corner, it’s time to take a look at your to-do list. Preparing your home for the winter may not be listed on the top at the moment, however, it is important to start doing home maintenance tasks. Look, we get it, most of us would rather spend our free time enjoying the various fall activities such as hiking, apple picking, or sipping pumpkin-spiced lattes. But, here’s the reality: you can’t procrastinate if you want your home to be prepared for the winter elements.

Cold weather, ice, and snow can do a lot of damage to your home. If you take the time to prepare your home before the winter chill takes hold, it will allow you to properly winterize your home and make it a lot more enjoyable when the temperature drops.

Roof and Gutter Inspection

Having a leaky roof is the last thing you want to deal with this winter. Before a huge snowstorm, inspect your roof for any damage such as missing or broken shingles, cracked caulk, or rust spots on flashing. If you’re not comfortable inspecting your roof on your own, hire a roofing company that can take a look and report back on what they see regarding roof damage. If you’re not comfortable inspecting your roof, hire a roofing company that can take a look and gives you any details they see regarding roof damage. In addition to a roof inspection, make sure to take a look at your gutters. Clogged rain gutters or downspouts can damage your home’s foundation and cause ice dams. To avoid expensive repairs, remove any leaves, twigs, or build-up to allow water flow. Also, ensure your gutters aren’t sagging and trapping water, tighten any loose screws, and replace any worn or damaged materials.

Tree Branch Trimming

Before a winter storm hits your area, make sure you trim any tree branches or limbs over your roof. This can cause excess water to seep into cracks in your home’s roof or siding creating more expensive damage to the structure of your home. Including tree trimming on your home maintenance to-do list will prevent any further damage from occurring to both your roof and house.

Fire Place Inspection

A visual inspection of both inside and outside of your home can ensure that your fireplace is in good working condition for the burning season. During an outdoor inspection, there are many things to look out for. From bird nests or debris buildup to crumbling or missing pieces on the chimney, it’s imperative to make sure that your fireplace, whether wood-burning or gas is safe to use during the burning seasons. When inspecting your gas fireplace, make sure to look for any structural issues including cracks or latch issues, or even the positioning of gas logs You’ll also want to test the gas valve and igniter to make sure they’re working. You can do this by attempting to ignite a fire, which can also help point out any clogged burner holes that need to be cleared. Additionally, when conducting an indoor inspection you want to confirm that:

  • The flue damper opens, closes, and seals properly
  • There are no combustible materials, such as animal nests, or other foreign objects in the flue
  • The fireplace surround, hearth, and firebox have no cracked bricks or missing mortar

If any damage is spotted, reach out to a professional to install a new fireplace or inspect the old one. These can cost on average between $80- $500, depending on what level of inspection you’re ordering.

Window Insulation

Poorly insulated windows can drive up the cost of your energy bill. To prevent this from happening, you can hire a professional to insulate your windows. By reducing drafts from your windows, you can lower your home’s energy costs by up to 20% per year according to the U.S Energy Department, while also making your living space cozy.

Ensuring that all of your home maintenance tasks are prepared for winter will help you breathe easy throughout the winter months. For your next inspection, contact Badger Contracting by calling 410-774-5122 or email us to make sure your home is ready for winter.

badger contracting

Looking for a contractor to fix your home is always a major headache. At Badger Contracting, we believe in the purpose of true professionalism. Our skilled experts work to provide services that cover a full range of roofing, siding, and window projects. We guarantee that you will be 100% satisfied with our workmanship, but also our ability to make it a no-stress experience. That’s why working with us will relieve any doubts on your next roofing, siding, and windows installation or repair projects. 

Cost-Effective and Energy Efficient Windows

Badger Contracting offers a variety of window styles and color preferences to meet your design needs. Updating or replacing your windows with energy-efficient windows can help add value to your home, while also providing you with natural light and a comfortable environment. Badger Contracting specializes in:

  • Casement windows
  • Vinyl single-hung tilt-in windows 
  • Vinyl double-hung tilt-in windows 
  • Bay windows 
  • Bow windows 
  • Low-E film protectant

Roofing Repair and Replacement 

Working with your budget is what we strive to do best. Individualized inspections and unique solutions are the only ways to approach your roofing repairs. After your free inspection, our experts will work with you to identify the best and most cost-effective plan to meet your needs. We will work with you to find a financial plan tailored to you to help offset the cost of your project. Once we have a service plan in place, you can rest assured that we will only partner with companies we trust.

More Than Just Siding 

We provide a wide range of our siding services—vinyl and fiber cement siding, including the popular Hardie plank for your needs. We pride ourselves in working with skilled professionals to ensure that you receive superior craftsmanship in more than just siding. Some of these include:

  • Insulation 
  • Soffits 
  • Gutters and down 
  • Trim 
  • Leaf away

Customer Service That Matters

The customer service at Badger Contracting is unparalleled. The payoff for a customer-centered business is that most of our business comes from referrals and existing clients.  

Contact Badger Contracting for your residential roofing and siding needs in the Baltimore and Washington D.C. area.

siding
detect siding issues early

What Shape Is Your Siding In?

On the long list of things to maintain in your home, siding is usually at the bottom of the list. While high-quality, professionally installed siding can last many years, there are still issues that can surface that you should watch for, address, and have repaired. Don’t let these problems go for too long as they can cause a lot of trouble and expense down the road. To keep costs low and your home in good shape, we’ve put together a few tips on identifying siding issues early before it’s too late.

Possible Siding Issues

What kind of siding do you have? Vinyl siding tends to have fewer issues than wood. Vinyl can warp in the heat, fade, and is susceptible to weather damage such as hail or high winds.

Wood siding can have issues, too, especially in an area like Baltimore. 

  • Pests – Being a natural material, wood can attract a variety of pests, from beetles and termites to woodpeckers. 
  • Moisture – While it’s designed to keep moisture out, siding can rot or mold in damp climates if it’s damaged. 
  • Peeling/fading – After a while, some siding may fade or even peel, especially in locations of bright sunlight. 
  • Roof problems – Issues with your roof can have a literal trickle-down effect on your siding. 
  • Loud – If your siding creaks a lot or makes noise, especially as the temperature changes, it may have been installed too tightly. 

Addressing Siding Issues

The good news is many siding issues, if addressed early, are easily avoided and repaired. Start with making sure you use a great contractor to properly install your siding. Check your siding thoroughly at least once a quarter and after any major storms. Look for any of the above issues. If you spot anything amiss, contact your installation contractor or an equivalent expert to repair it. 

It’s as easy as that! With a little diligence and knowing what to look for, you can keep your siding in tiptop shape for years to come. At Badger Contracting, we can take care of all your needs. Contact us today for an inspection!

assessing roof on house for sale
assessing roof on house for sale

Is The Roof In Good Condition?


When you’re shopping for a new home, the condition of the house’s interior may be your primary concern. Although the interior receives the most attention, you should also carefully inspect the exterior for wear and damage. After examining the foundation, doors, windows, and paneling, you can check the roof to ensure your investment is sound. Here are some suggestions on what to look for when you’re assessing the roof.


Inspecting the Roof’s Ventilation System


A problem with the home’s ventilation system can lead to significant damage to the framing, tiles, and flashing on the roof. Organic material such as branches and leaves can clog the vents and lead to excessive condensation, ice dams, tile damage, and soggy insulation. Check the roof’s vents to ensure they’re free of debris and look for signs of mold or moisture build-up.


Examining the Roofing Materials


The type of materials used can make a substantial difference in the roof’s longevity. Asphalt shingles are more vulnerable to damage than a metal roof; however, a metal roof is more difficult to repair. Asphalt roll roofs are inexpensive to install, but they’re less durable than other materials and require frequent maintenance. Before purchasing a house, ask the real estate agent for the date of the original roof installation. Depending on the materials, roofs can last for 15 to 30 years.


Checking for Damage


A poorly maintained roof can cause leaking, insect infestations, and wood damage. Look for missing or broken shingles and water damage during your inspection. A small hole in the roof can lead to a costly problem if it’s not repaired promptly. Water damage is a common problem on aging roofs, but you can look at the ceilings of the interior rooms for discolored drywall or plaster. Talk to your realtor about essential roof repairs before making a final offer.


Trust the Professionals


For roofing installations and repairs, you can rely on Badger Contracting. Contact us today for an estimate.

roof ventilation
roof ventilation

Roof Ventilation is Crucial to Your Home’s Well-Being


When it comes to home improvement projects, roofing projects are among the most common. When maintaining your roof, be sure to show the vents some attention. Your roof’s vents directly affect the air quality in your home and the structure’s components. To keep your roof functional, you need to ensure that your vents are in working order at all times.


Functioning Vents Control Moisture


When the air in your attic becomes stagnant, all moisture present will condense and settle into the framing and insulation. These moist areas create the perfect breeding ground for mold, rot, and mildew. Rot can cause the roof to sag and the insulation to clump. Fortunately, functioning roof vents can keep the moisture from collecting and condensing, thus preventing the problem altogether.


Functioning Vents Protect Roof Shingles


Poorly functioning vents can affect both the interior and exterior of your home. When the air in your attic heats up, it transfers to the roofing material. Overheated shingles can decrease in durability and may have to be replaced before the end of their lifecycle.


Functioning Vents Control Temperature


You may think that the temperature of the attic has very little relevance to the rest of your home. Unfortunately, as hot air accumulates in the attic, it can start moving through the entire house, raising the temperature in every room. Not only will it be uncomfortable, but it will also force your HVAC system to work harder, costing you more in utilities.

When you decide to inspect, remodel, or perform maintenance on your roof, never forget about your roof vents. Without proper ventilation, you could encourage mold growth and high energy bills. For residential roofing solutions, contact Badger Contracting today!

roof paid for with financing
roof paid for with financing

If you’re ready to get started on that next home improvement project, it could be devastating to realize you don’t have the funds for it. At Badger Contracting, we understand this predicament, and we are here to help. Our financing option helps customers to get the job done, whether it’s new windows, a new roof, or new siding. 


What Is the Financing Option?


At Badger Contracting, we make financing an easy process. You have better things to do than worry about being approved, which is why our three-step process is so convenient.

  1. You fill out an application – This is a simple, to-the-point application form that homeowners can complete in a short period of time. 
  2. We make a decision – It often only takes a few minutes for us to make a credit decision, and we’ll inform you right away.
  3. We begin the project – As soon as you are approved for financing with Badger Contracting, we can get started on planning your project. 

What Are the Benefits of Financing?


Financing your home improvement project comes with several benefits. They include:

  • The ability to get your project started sooner: If you wait until you have saved enough cash for the project, it’s possible that in that time, your home will have experienced greater damage that will be more costly. When you finance with Badger Contracting, we can get started on your project right away.
  • The option to have a professional complete the job: Too many homeowners try to complete their home improvement projects on their own because they don’t feel they can afford to hire professionals. Unfortunately, this typically leads to more damage. When your project is financed, you’ll have a professional on the job in no time.

Contact Us To Apply Today


If you’re in the market for a remodel, remember that you don’t have to pay for everything upfront. Contact Badger Contracting to apply for financing so we can get started on your project as soon as possible.

roof shingles during a roof inspection
roof shingles during a roof inspection

Spring Is The Ideal Time For A Roof Inspection


A harsh Baltimore winter can do a number on your home’s roofing system. Heavy snows, ice buildups, and high winds have a way of damaging shingles and other roofing components. At Badger Contracting, we know this is the perfect time for a comprehensive roof inspection.

An early spring inspection offers many advantages. The weather is usually relatively mild at this time, allowing workers to get a complete view of the entire roof as they look for winter damage. You also have an opportunity at this time to plan for needed repairs. Our experienced workers will come to your home and look over your roof for potential problems. 


Fewer Distractions and Debris


Spring is also a time when your roof is less likely to have leaves and other debris piling up. This allows our team to concentrate on the shape of your roof, looking for dried-out or torn shingles, warped structures, and other common problems.

If repairs are needed, we will schedule an appropriate time to get the job finished. Our team will always follow through and complete the job to your satisfaction. We will even recycle any old materials in the most earth-friendly way possible.


Better Roofing Solutions


Our goal is to provide you with the best solutions for maintaining your roofing. This includes everything from minor roof repairs to a quality new roof. Working with Badger Contracting, you can expect the following advantages:

  • Free on-site inspections
  • A local company that knows the Baltimore area
  • Cost-effective solutions
  • Strong work ethic
  • The best roofing products
  • Around-the-clock services

We know important it is to have a safe, sturdy roof over your head. Call 410-417-6972 or email us today to schedule a free inspection this spring. 

residential roof
residential roof

Replacing the roof is often one of the costlier repairs a homeowner makes. Although a well-maintained roof can last 20 to 30 years, climate and weather conditions can reduce its useful lifespan. However, there are steps you can take to extend the life of a roof.

Trim Overhanging Branches

The more branches brush up against the side of the house or bang against the roof during a storm, the more they weaken and damage the shingles’ structure. Branches also shade the roof, making it easier for mold to thrive. Pruning tree limbs minimizes damage and can reduce the chances that small creatures use them to find a way into your attic or crawl space.

Clean Gutters Frequently

When gutters become clogged with leaves and other debris, they can get backed up when it rains. This can damage not only the shingles but the roof underneath. Clean the gutters in the spring and fall to reduce the potential for damage.

Check for Damage

When left untreated, minor issues can result in major repairs. What starts as a small leak under a single shingle can expand, causing the wood to swell and result in significant water damage. Check the roof after a storm and repair any damaged or worn shingles immediately. A small fix now can save thousands of dollars in repair costs later.

Have Regular Roof Inspections

Even if you take a look at the roof a few times a year, nothing beats a professional residential roof inspection. Experienced roofers know what to look for; they can pinpoint potential issues and document damage such as:

  • Shingles with curled or ragged edges
  • Asphalt shingles have cracks or bald spots
  • Dark streaks signaling algae or moss may be thriving
  • Flashing around a chimney or at the border of the roof is damaged

At Badger Contracting, we offer comprehensive roof inspections and replacement roofing systems. Call 410-417-6972 or email us today to schedule an appointment and to discuss your roofing needs.