Disaster Preparedness: Best Practices for Homeowners

La línea más nueva de tejas asfálticas reflectantes diseñadas por GAF, Timberline HDZ® Reflector Series, puede brindarle a su hogar más protección contra la intemperie y un atractivo aspecto exterior.Las tejas para techado, disponibles en elegantes colores oscuros, crean una estética atractiva que puede usarse para cumplir con ciertos requisitos de códigos relacionados con la reflectancia. Esto es particularmente importante en California, donde los códigos edilicios estatales, como el Título 24, y las normativas locales, como el Código Edilicio Ecológico del condado de Los Ángeles, requieren una reflectancia específica en los techos para ayudar a conservar energía.A continuación le mostramos lo que debe saber sobre estas nuevas tejas reflectantes, incluida su tecnología exclusiva y el potencial para permitir ahorros en costos de energía.Características de las tejas Reflector SeriesLas tejas Timberline HDZ® RS tienen varios puntos fuertes que les permiten destacarse respecto de la competencia. Gracias a su diseño, las características de las tejas de techado mejoran la reflectancia y ofrecen protección adicional contra las algas y el viento.Gránulos EcoDark®Las tejas Timberline HDZ® RS cuentan con gránulos EcoDark®, una tecnología con una nueva fórmula que ofrece colores oscuros ricos y profundos sin perder reflectancia. Entre los colores disponibles se incluye carbón, que actualmente es el color más oscuro con alta reflectancia en California, y varias otras combinaciones, cada una con un aspecto completo y dimensional.Tecnología LayerLock®Las tejas asfálticas tradicionales tienen varias capas de material conectado con adhesivo o fijadores mecánicos. Con la tecnología GAF LayerLock®, las capas de tejas se fijan mecánicamente. Esto ofrece protección adicional contra el viento, que puede desprender las tejas del techo.Gracias a la tecnología, GAF puede afirmar que es pionero en otra cosa en la industria: ofrecer una garantía sin límite de viento máximo**.Cuatro beneficios de las tejas Reflector Series para propietariosLas tejas Timberline HDZ® RS le ofrecen varios beneficios.1. Cumplimiento de los códigos y reducción del costo de refrigeraciónEn California, las tejas RS pueden usarse para cumplir los requisitos de reflectancia solar de edificios residenciales altos, según se indica en el título 24, parte 6 del Código de Regulaciones de California de 2022 y el Código de Estándares Edilicios Ecológicos del condado de Los Ángeles. Ambos códigos fijan un índice de reflectancia mínima, denominado índice reflectivo solar (SRI, solar reflective index), que mide la capacidad de un material para reflejar el sol y la luz solar. Cuanto menor sea el valor de SRI (de 0 a 100), más caliente será un material bajo la luz solar. Cuanto mayor el valor, más frío será el material.Las tejas con un SRI más alto, como GAF Timberline HDZ® RS, reflejan más luz solar, ayudan a reducir la temperatura interna y la energía (y los costos) que se necesita para refrigerar su hogar.2. Colores oscuros y ricos que combinan con cualquier estilo o estéticaYa no tendrá que elegir entre colores oscuros, ricos y profundos, populares en la arquitectura moderna, y el cumplimiento de los requisitos de reflectancia. Además de ofrecer una opción en color carbón, el color de alta reflectancia más oscuro, los otros colores de la línea cuentan con mezclas de colores GAF High Definition® que le brindan a las tejas Reflector Series un aspecto dimensional similar a las tejas de madera.3. Protección contra algas verde-azuladasLas manchas de algas verde-azuladas, una cianobacteria llamada gloeocapsa magma, pueden reducir el valor de su hogar. Las tejas HDZ® RS incluyen la tecnología contra las algas GAF Time-Release, que utiliza cápsulas especialmente diseñadas impregnadas con miles de partículas de cobre. El cobre se libera de manera uniforme a lo largo del tiempo y evita el crecimiento de las algas durante muchos años. Gracias a esta tecnología, GAF ofrece una garantía limitada de protección contra las algas StainGuard Plus™ de 25 años*, que es especialmente beneficiosa en climas cálidos, húmedos y costeros como el de California.4. Garantía contra viento sin límite máximo de velocidad de vientoCuando se instala con la cantidad requerida de accesorios del sistema de techado GAF, la tecnología LayerLock® de las tejas Timberline HDZ® Reflector Series le permite a GAF ofrecer una garantía contra viento limitada WindProven™ de 15 años** sin límite máximo de velocidad de viento.Una opción elegante para los propietarios de CaliforniaSi vive en California, las tejas GAF Timberline HDZ® RS son una opción inteligente para cumplir los estrictos requisitos de reflectancia estatales y, al mismo tiempo, seguir el sentido estético y estilístico de la arquitectura moderna. Las características de las tejas le brindan protección adicional a su hogar y pueden reducir los costos de refrigeración, algo que puede suponer un ahorro para su bolsillo.¿Está listo para obtener estos beneficios en su techo? Comuníquese con el contratista de techado certificado por GAF*** más cercano para obtener más información.*La garantía limitada StainGuard Plus™ de 25 años contra decoloración provocada por algas verde-azuladas está disponible solo en productos vendidos en paquetes que incluyen el logotipo StainGuard Plus™. *La garantía limitada StainGuard Plus PRO™ de 30 años contra decoloración provocada por algas verde-azuladas está disponible solo en productos vendidos en paquetes que incluyen el logotipo StainGuard Plus PRO™. Consulte la Garantía limitada de tejas y accesorios GAF para conocer la cobertura y las restricciones completas.**La garantía limitada contra viento WindProven™ de 15 años en tejas Timberline® HDZ™ requiere el uso de fajas iniciales GAF, protección de cubierta de techo, cumbreras para tejas y barrera contra filtraciones o ventilación de áticos. Consulte la Garantía limitada del sistema de techado GAF para conocer la cobertura y las restricciones completas. Visite gaf.com/LRS para conocer los productos GAP elegibles.***Los contratistas inscritos en programas de certificación GAF no son empleados ni agentes de GAF, que no controla ni supervisa de ningún otro modo estas empresas independientes. Los contratistas pueden recibir beneficios, como puntos de recompensa de programas de lealtad y descuentos en herramientas de marketing de GAF, por participar en el programa y ofrecer garantías mejoradas de GAF, que requieren el uso de una cantidad mínima de productos de GAF. Sus arreglos con un contratista, y todos los servicios que le pueda ofrecer, están sujetos a los Términos de uso del contratista.

Under sunny blue skies, GAF hometown workers from Minneapolis joined over 4,000 Habitat for Humanity volunteers to donate their time and energy to the 2024 Carter Work Project in East St. Paul, Minnesota.The landmark 40th anniversary of the Carter Work Project celebrated former President Carter's 100th birthday. It also heralded the completion of 30 new all-electric homes in The Heights—the largest affordable housing development yet for Twin Cities Habitat—and marked the first installation of GAF Timberline Solar™ Energy Shingles.Supporting the Carter Work Project's PurposeGAF and the Habitat Carter Work Project share a common mission—to protect what matters most and bring people together to build homes, communities, and hope. Safe, secure, affordable housing is one of the surest routes to building resilient communities.Former President Jimmy Carter and former First Lady Rosalynn Carter were early champions of affordable housing. In 1984, they partnered with Habitat for Humanity to lead an annual week-long housing build. The momentum grew, and now, four decades later, over 100,000 Habitat volunteers have helped construct over 4,400 affordable homes for families in need.Each year, GAF volunteers travel from around the country for the Carter Work Project. GAF Community Matters also donates roofing materials, training, and installation expertise. Since 2011, GAF and its national network of certified contractors have supported roofing installation on over 3,800 roofing systems in collaboration with Habitat for Humanity, impacting more than 15,500 individuals.Building Resilience in MinnesotaThis year was particularly special thanks to first time solar shingle installation at a Carter Work Project. Even more, the project's location was in a GAF hometown and local GAF employees were on-site to volunteer.Benefitting Homeowners by Going Solar"We're donating 40 roofing systems and 40 solar energy systems from GAF and GAF Energy," says Jake Pream, a territory manager for GAF Energy in Minnesota.In addition to energy production, the beauty of the GAF Timberline Solar™ Energy Shingle is its simplicity. The nailable shingles are "just like your typical Timberline HDZ® Shingles," says Fan Ulacia, Director of Product Deployment Applications for GAF Energy and one of the minds behind the solar shingle design. "They're simple enough to install with a nail gun, but they produce energy." For Ulacia, improving access to solar energy, giving back to the community, and helping homeowners gain energy independence make GAF Energy a great fit for the GAF Habitat partnership."The solar-powered roofing system will make these homes more resilient, generate energy, and be a long-term benefit to Habitat homeowners by helping to offset their energy costs," adds Jeff Terry, vice president of corporate social responsibility and sustainability at GAF, who has volunteered at the Carter Work Project for 26 years.Helping a GAF HometownThe Twin Cities Habitat build is also special because it means the Carter Work Project takes place in a GAF hometown. As Pream, a St. Paul native, puts it, "I have friends and family quite literally a few houses down."The Minneapolis GAF manufacturing facility opened in 1935, and "it's something we're really proud of," says Austin Owens, a local GAF technical manager. Over the years, "we've made improvements to equipment and operations and made changes to help the environment and sustainability. We try to help the community as much as possible."Like many GAF volunteers at the Carter Work Project site, Joey Och, a GAF plant process engineer, grew up in the area. "Affordable housing is something Minneapolis and St. Paul have been pushing for," says Och, "so it's nice to be out here and help. Affordable housing brings more people into the community."With GAF donating roofing and solar energy systems for this year's project, safe and affordable homeownership, with reduced energy bills, will be accessible to more people.This housing security helps strengthen the community. The area may experience severe weather and its share of hardship, but "there's a lot of resiliency in this community," says Owens.Carrying On the Carter Work Project in 2024 and BeyondFor many reasons, the Carter Work Project inspires repeat volunteers. "Community does matter," says annual participant and GAF CARE Learning and Development Instructor Michael Humenik. "It's just fun to volunteer. I look forward to coming out every year."Habitat homeowners who return each year to volunteer are the true testament to the transformational power of access to safe, affordable housing. LeAndra Estes brought her hard work and a big smile to the week-long Twin Cities build. Estes is an annual volunteer for the program that changed her life. "I need and I want to give back to Habitat for Humanity, to the affiliates and partners, and to the future homeowners to come," she notes.Estes puts into words the value of affordable housing and how the benefits ripple far beyond the home. "When you have a home, you don't just have that home and your family. Your community also becomes your family," she explains.Although former President Carter has retired his tool belt after decades of humanitarian service, he surely must have been proud to see his legacy continue to evolve, especially with the revolutionary new solar shingle that supports homeowners' financial independence.Ready to get involved? Explore the Habitat for Humanity GAF Contractor Program and change lives for the better, starting today.

Installing a new roof that will protect your home and family for years to come is a major investment. That's why it's important to have adequate roof warranty protection once the job is complete.While most reputable roofing manufacturers provide basic warranty coverage against manufacturing defects in the roofing materials, it's often better to choose enhanced warranties that also cover installation. These warranties are available through your roofing contractor or manufacturer, and they're transferrable should you sell your house.Understanding what is—and isn't—covered can help you make an informed decision. Here's what you need to know when selecting your warranty.Comparing Types of Roof WarrantiesRoof warranties come in three main types, and understanding the differences can help you select the right one for your needs.Standard Manufacturer's Product WarrantiesMost roofing manufacturers provide basic coverage against factory defects, often at no additional cost. And if you install qualifying accessories in addition to shingles, some manufacturers offer better coverage.For example, if you purchase and install GAF Designer or Timberline® Shingles, the GAF Shingle & Accessory Limited Warranty automatically covers them. It also covers qualifying GAF accessories for up to 40 years. If you install at least three qualifying GAF accessories, you'll also receive the GAF Roofing System Limited Warranty, which provides a lifetime warranty on accessories and shingles.Most standard manufacturer warranties—also known as product warranties—only cover defective materials and components, not shingles that fail due to installation or maintenance mistakes.Contractor WarrantiesThe roofing contractor you hire to install your roof system plays a vital role in how well it performs and lasts. In addition to basic manufacturer warranties, many contractors offer a workmanship or contractor warranty, which covers you against future problems resulting from application errors (roof issues due to contractor installation mistakes).These warranties' details and terms vary by contractor. Some provide lifetime coverage against worker errors and damages inside your home stemming from faulty workmanship. However, contractor warranties don't protect your roof from weather damage, falling trees, or issues from roof modifications after installation. Ask your roofing contractor what their warranty does and doesn't cover.Enhanced or Extended Manufacturer's WarrantiesAn enhanced or extended manufacturer's warranty offers the most comprehensive protection, covering contractor workmanship plus expanded roofing material coverage. Ask your roofing contractor if they provide enhanced warranty options backed by the roofing manufacturer.Usually, enhanced warranties are available at an additional cost, and they often require you to install shingles and accessories from the same manufacturer. These components can include leak barriers, underlayment, hip and ridge cap shingles, and soffit and ridge vents. Typically, an authorized roofing contractor enrolled in the manufacturer's certified contractor program must install the products.Extended manufacturer's warranties usually last longer than standard ones. For example, the GAF Golden Pledge® Limited Warranty provides a 50-year non-prorated period against manufacturing defects (versus the 10 years the standard warranty offers). It also gives you up to 30 years of coverage against the roofing contractor's misapplication of the GAF products and covered flashings (installed at valleys, dormers, chimneys, and plumbing vents to provide added protection from water penetration). This holds true even if the roofing contractor is no longer in business. The Golden Pled ge® also provides coverage for tear-off and disposal to repair your roof in the event of a covered claim.GAF also offers the WindProven™ Limited Wind Warranty and the 25-Year StainGuard Plus™ Algae Protection Limited Warranty, which provide comprehensive coverage.Understanding Roof Warranty Exclusions and RequirementsEven with an extended roof warranty, not every situation that can damage your roof system is covered. For example, a heavy snowfall, hailstorm, lightning strikes, or severe wind can all result in damage that your warranty might not include.Ask your roofing contractor which situations are typically excluded from manufacturer warranties. Also, ask about coverage for proper roof ventilation.When considering roof warranties, it's crucial to understand their terms and conditions. Daniel McLaughlin, External Learning & Development Manager at GAF, cautions, "For homeowners, the initial risk of limited warranties is not understanding them and/or the verbiage that comes with them." He emphasizes the importance of knowing the difference between specific terms, such as "labor vs. workmanship" and "non-prorated vs. prorated," and understanding what kind of warranty homeowners can receive when the job is complete.To be eligible for an enhanced manufacturer's warranty, you'll likely need to hire a manufacturer-certified contractor. For example, to be eligible for the GAF Golden Pledge® warranty, you must hire a GAF Master Elite® Contractor to install your new roofing system.Registering and Maintaining Your Roof WarrantyCheck the roofing manufacturer's instructions on how to register your warranty. Even if a warranty is automatically included with your roof purchase, you or your contractor must activate it within a specific period once the roof system is installed, depending on which warranty you select.You should receive confirmation from the manufacturer that your roofing contractor registered your enhanced warranty. For example, if you purchased a GAF Golden Pledge® warranty, you'll receive a copy in the mail within 60 days after the job is complete. If not, contact GAF about your warranty status.Also, you can void your warranty if you don't properly maintain your roof. So, schedule regular roof inspections and cleanings—usually every two years—to address potential problems early. Use the contractor that installed your roof when you book maintenance service; most warranties don't allow you to outsource work or do it yourself.Finally, save your proof of purchase, including your contract with your roofing company and any receipts or invoices from your roofing supply store. These documents may be necessary if you need to file a warranty claim.Finalizing Your Warranty PlanBefore starting a new roofing project, do your research and speak to your roofing contractor about available warranties. Once you understand the different types of coverage standard, contractor, or enhanced warranties provide, it's easy to see how valuable they are. This GAF Limited Warranty Comparison Guide also outlines each roof warranty's requirements and coverage.Ready to move forward with a roof repair or replacement? Find a GAF-certified roofing contractor* near you to discuss your specific roofing needs and guide you through the process.*Contractors enrolled in GAF certification programs are not employees or agents of GAF, and GAF does not control or otherwise supervise these independent businesses. Contractors may receive benefits, such as loyalty rewards points and discounts on marketing tools from GAF for participating in the program and offering GAF enhanced warranties, which require the use of a minimum amount of GAF products. Your dealings with a Contractor, and any services they provide to you, are subject to the GAF Contractor Terms of Use.