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Roofing/Enviroshake vs EcoStar et al

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Expert: Dan Merrill - 6/28/2009


Question
My current cedar shake roof needs to be replaced. I am investigating Enviroshake as a replacement and have an estimate from a reputable roofer who is certified by the Enviroshake but has most likely never done an Enviroshake roof...should I take a chance on a new company such as Enviroshake?  Is there an alternative "green" product with more longevity?  I love the look of Enviroshake...
Is the fledgling Enviroshake Company a good "green" choice and how

Answer
The company has been around for at least 10 years in it's present form. It's founder developed the product over years of testing and constant improvements before that.
The present factory is is high-tech and ISO 9000 certified, not an easy or inexpensive feat. The product has proven to be very consistent and reliable.

I would have no fear of installing EnviroShake on my own home. The only issue is choosing a quality installer who will actually follow the manufacturer's instructions. These types of products are intended to last a very long time so all the details and flashings must made and installed with the life span in mind.

A lot of these types of companies give you the option of having their own installation representatives on site the first day or two of installation to make sure everything is being installed properly. Some companies charge for this, some do not. Either way it is well worth the cost.

Good luck,

Dan

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Dan Merrill

Expertise

We are a "green" roofing company. We offer information and advice on metal and synthetic cedar, tile, and slate roofing products. We also address good, sound installation practices for lifetime and slate roof installations. Generally speaking, we are experienced with any materials that have 50 year or longer, expected lifespan, such as copper, terne coated steels, Kynar painted Steel, Aluminum, etc. We do extensive Infrared scans of homes with water leaks, moisture damage, air leakage, etc. So we have a good practical knowledge of what works and what does not work in the long term. We offer no advice on asphalt or fiberglass roofing products.

Experience

Was a hobbyist/home remodeler for over 30 years. Restored over 30 homes. After retiring from engineering (27 years), I studied materials and installation practices of high-end roofing materials. This information was tempered by my engineering experience. We have developed and sell roofing "kits" to roofing contractors who do not have the time to research rarely used roofing products. We ensure that they have all the required materials, tools and information to offer their customers a solid 50 year installation.

Organizations
National Association of Home Builders Fox Valley Builders Assoc. Illinois Association of Home Builders Remodelers Council of NAHB Metal Roofing Alliance EnergyStar provider U.S. Green Builder Council Better Business Bureau

Publications
Our websites www.ecowiseinc.com and www.chicagometalroofing.com, Fox Tails, publication of the Fox Valley Builders Association

Education/Credentials
Tech certificate in Mechanical Drafting, 1978. Self-taught Engineer. Many certificates held. Have achieved NAHB "Certified Graduate Remodeler" designation. Graduate of Green Builder College. Licensed, insured & Bonded Roofer in Illinois.

Awards and Honors
Holder of many Patents, Member of Mensa

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