Roofing and Siding Blog | Better Roofing and Contracting

Roof Ventilation and Attic Insulation: Preventing Ice Dams and Energy Loss

January 2, 2026 By Admin

Living in Bismarck, Mandan, or Jamestown means dealing with some tough winters. As a homeowner, one of the most frustrating and damaging winter issues you can face is an ice dam. But did you know that the key to preventing them lies not on your roof, but underneath it?

At Better Roofing & Contracting, we’ve seen firsthand how the combination of proper roof ventilation and effective attic insulation can save your home from costly water damage and high energy bills.

The Partnership That Protects Your Home

The goal of your attic system is simple: keep the roof deck cold in the winter and your living space warm. When these two systems work together, they create a barrier against the elements.

1. The Role of Ventilation: Soffit and Ridge Vents

Your roof needs to breathe. A balanced ventilation system uses soffit vents (located under the eaves) to pull cool, fresh air into the attic. As that air warms, it naturally rises and exits through ridge vents at the peak of your roof.

This continuous airflow carries away heat and moisture that escapes from your home. Without it, warm air gets trapped, melting the snow on your roof.

2. The Role of Insulation: The Thermal Barrier

Insulation is your home’s blanket. Its effectiveness is measured by its R-value; the higher the number, the better it resists heat flow. In our cold climate, a high R-value is crucial to keep the heat in your living space, where you pay for it to be, rather than letting it leak into the attic.

How They Prevent Ice Dams

An ice dam forms when heat from your house escapes into the attic and warms the roof deck. This melts the snow, which trickles down to the colder eaves and freezes into a dam. As water backs up behind the dam, it can seep under shingles and into your home, causing leaks, rot, and mold.

Proper insulation keeps the heat in your home, and proper ventilation flushes out any heat that does escape, keeping the roof cold and snow from melting prematurely.

Signs of a Problem

How do you know if your system is failing? Look for:

Icicles forming at the edge of your roof.
High heating bills.
Mold or mildew on attic rafters or insulation.

Don’t wait for winter damage to strike. Call Better Roofing & Contracting today at 701-751-7663 for an inspection. Let our experienced team ensure your home is ready for whatever the North Dakota winter brings.

Image credit: // Shutterstock // Suzanne Tucker

How to File an Insurance Claim After Storm Damage: A Step‑by‑Step Guide

December 9, 2025 By Admin

Dealing with roof or siding damage after a bad storm is a huge headache—but filing the insurance claim shouldn’t be. At Better Roofing and Contracting, we’re not just your contractor; we’re your advocate, here to guide you through the process, cut the red tape, and make sure you get a fair deal.

Making Sense of the Storm Damage Claims Process

We know this process can feel overwhelming. To make it simple, follow these steps right after the storm hits:

Stop the Leakage (and Save the Receipts): Your first priority is safety and preventing more damage. Throw a tarp over any major holes and take care of small, immediate fixes. Keep every single receipt for those emergency repairs—your insurer will need them.
Document It Like a Pro: This is where you can really help yourself. Before you call the agent, grab your phone and take lots of clear photos and videos. Get wide shots of the overall damage and close-ups of specific issues, like bent gutters or missing shingles. The more detail you have, the faster the claim goes.
Call Your Insurance Agent ASAP: Get in touch with your insurer immediately. They’ll give you a claim number and assign an adjuster.
We Meet the Adjuster (You Don’t Have to Go It Alone): When the adjuster comes out, we want to be there. Having a Better Roofing expert on-site ensures every bit of hidden damage—the stuff that’s easy to miss—is properly documented. We speak their language and push for the comprehensive assessment your home deserves.
Get It Fixed Right: Once your claim is approved, we work directly with the insurance company on the estimate. Our job is to make sure that the estimate covers the entire cost of a quality repair, not just the bare minimum. We take the stress out of the paperwork so you can focus on getting your home back to normal.

Need Help? Start with a Free Inspection

Don’t guess what your damage is. If you suspect your roof or siding took a hit, Better Roofing and Contracting offers a free, no-pressure inspection. We’ll give you an honest, expert assessment and stand with you as your advocate through the entire recovery process.

Call us at Better Roofing and Contracting today to schedule your complimentary inspection! We’re ready to help you recover quickly and correctly.

Image credit: // Shutterstock // Gregorij

Seamless Gutter Upgrades: Benefits, Costs, and When to Choose Them

October 17, 2025 By Admin

In Bismarck, unpredictable weather demands exceptional home defenses. Seamless gutters are a crucial upgrade for safeguarding your property’s foundation, siding, and landscaping from water damage. Unlike traditional sectional gutters, seamless versions are crafted on-site to precisely fit your home, eliminating weak points and enhancing durability. They offer unmatched protection against heavy rains and rapid snowmelts common in the area.

Seamless vs. Sectional: The Clear Benefits

Sectional gutters, with multiple seams and joints, are prone to leaks and blockages, causing overflows that can damage your home’s exterior. Seamless gutters, made from a single aluminum piece, prevent these issues. Their continuous design ensures optimal water flow and structural strength, crucial for enduring Bismarck’s climate challenges.

Why Seamless Gutters Excel in Bismarck’s Climate

With Bismarck’s intense weather fluctuations, seamless gutters are built to withstand heavy snow and summer storms. Their robust design prevents sagging under snow weight and allows for efficient water drainage during thaws and downpours, protecting your home’s foundation and landscaping.

Invest in Long-term Benefits

Prevent Expensive Repairs: Seamless gutters eliminate leaks, protecting foundations from cracking and basements from flooding.
Minimal Maintenance: With fewer seams, you’ll deal with fewer clogs, reducing cleaning time and costs.
Enhanced Curb Appeal: Customizable in various colors, these gutters offer a sleek, polished exterior that increases your property’s value.

Understanding the Costs

Seamless gutters are a valuable investment, costing between $6 to $20 per linear foot in aluminum, based on roof complexity and linear footage. This upfront investment avoids future costly repairs.

Choose Better Roofing and Contracting for Excellence

Our professional installation, precision measuring, and custom fabrication ensure a flawless fit and performance. Located in Bismarck, ND, we offer expert services backed by comprehensive warranties. For enhanced protection and peace of mind, contact Better Roofing and Contracting today.

Image credit: // Shutterstock // Mikolaevna

Metal Roofing vs Asphalt Shingles: Which Is Best for North Dakota Weather?

August 20, 2025 By Admin

When it comes to protecting your home from North Dakota’s harsh winters, strong winds, and temperature swings, your roof choice matters. Two of the most popular options, metal roofing and asphalt shingles, each offer unique benefits. Understanding their differences can help you choose the best fit for your home.

Durability Comparison

Metal roofing is known for exceptional durability, resisting wind, hail, and heavy snow loads better than most materials. It’s also fire-resistant and won’t warp or crack in extreme temperatures. Asphalt shingles, while durable, can be more susceptible to damage from hail impact and high winds, though quality shingles still perform well in typical conditions.

Lifespan

A properly installed metal roof can last 40–70 years with minimal maintenance. Asphalt shingles generally last 15–30 years, depending on the quality and care. For homeowners looking for a long-term investment, metal often wins in longevity.

Installation Costs

Asphalt shingles typically have a lower upfront cost, making them attractive for budget-conscious homeowners. Metal roofing has a higher initial price but can save money over time due to its longer lifespan and reduced maintenance needs.

Energy Efficiency

Metal roofing reflects sunlight, helping keep homes cooler in summer and reducing cooling costs. Some metal roofs also feature insulation-friendly designs for better winter energy savings. Asphalt shingles absorb more heat, which can be beneficial in winter but may increase cooling expenses in warmer months.

Contact Us at Better Roofing and Contracting to Learn More

Choosing the right roof depends on your budget, style preferences, and long-term goals. Whether you value the affordability of asphalt shingles or the lasting strength of metal roofing, our team can help you make an informed decision. Contact us at Better Roofing and Contracting today to discuss your roofing needs and get a free estimate.

Featured Image: Dmitrii Pridannikov / Shutterstock

Key Roofing Facts Every Homeowner Needs to Know

June 13, 2025 By Admin

Your roof is the most important protection for your house from harsh weather. Despite its simplicity of appearance, it involves more than just shingles and nails. If you are aware of these critical roofing facts, you can prolong the life of your roof, avoid expensive damage, and make better judgments.

Understanding Your Roof’s Lifespan
One of the most important roofing facts is that all roofs have a limited lifespan. Depending on the materials, most last between 20 to 50 years before needing replacement or serious repair.

Regular Inspections Are Essential
Homeowners often overlook roof inspections, which is important. Identifying problems early can save you from costly semi-annual inspections, prolong your roof’s life, and avoid expensive replacements.

Ventilation Impacts Roof Health
The roof structure may be weakened by heat and moisture buildup caused by poor attic ventilation. Mold, rot, and premature aging of roofing materials can be avoided with proper ventilation.

Different Materials Have Different Qualities
The lifespan and performance of your roof are affected by the roofing material you choose. Asphalt, tile, slate, and metal roofing all require maintenance. Asphalt shingles are a popular and affordable alternative, but slate is known for its long-lasting durability. Each material has different kinds of advantages and disadvantages.

Leaks Aren’t Always Obvious
A leak might not show up as a ceiling stain immediately. Water can travel through walls first. Early signs include curled shingles, mold, and sagging.

Weather Is a Major Threat
Over time, harsh weather conditions, including heavy rainfall, snowfall, and strong winds, may damage your roof. Buying weather-resistant materials can reduce damage over time.

Gutter Maintenance Matters
Leaks and rot under the roof are caused by clogged gutters. Keeping it clean maintains proper drainage and roof protection year-round.

DIY Repairs Can Be Risky
Fixing your roof without proper skills or tools can do more harm than good. Improper repairs can void warranties and may cause injuries. Always consult a pro.

Energy Efficiency Starts at the Top
A well-insulated and ventilated roof helps regulate indoor temperature. Cool roofing materials reflect sunlight and reduce energy costs, especially in hot climates.

Idon’tnce Might Not Cover Everything
Many policies don’t cover wear and tear or improper installation. Understanding your policy and keeping documentation is key if you ever need to file a claim.

Protect Your Roof with the Pros

Staying informed about essential roofing for homes makes Maintaining your home’s safety and value make all the difference. With the right knowledge and expert support, your roof will stand strong for years to come.

Better Roofing and Contracting provides expert inspections and advice. To keep your house secure. Don’t delay. Make an appointment for your consultation today.