Brown Roofing Company, Inc. Q&A

There is a lot that goes into the efficiency of your roof. Solar Reflectance Index (SRI) indicates the roof's ability to reject solar heat. Standard black being zero  and a standard white being 100. 

The Lawrence Berkely National Lab has determined that raising the SRI from 25 to just 40 can lower the surface temperature of your roof by more than 13 degrees. Lighter colors are more efficient. That could translate to a significant savings on your energy bill. A cooler roof means a cooler attic. A cooler attic mean less energy transfer to you home.

Ventilation is a key factor. Proper ventilation in the attic will keep any heat transferred from building up. High temperatures outside mean even higher temperatures in the attic. Your electric bill will be the least of your worries. Built up heat can eventually damage your roof.

Our thorough inspection will help determine how much ventilation is needed and the best ventilation system for your home.

Brown Roofing Company, Inc. has been a trusted roofing contractor in Connecticut since its founding in 1972. Established by Gary Brown, the company began with a commitment to honest work and dependable service. 

In 2012, Gary Brown passed the torch to Edward "Eddie" Griffin, who had started working at the company as a teenager. Eddie's journey from laborer to roofing foreman and ultimately to owner reflects his dedication to the craft and the company's values. Under his leadership, Brown Roofing has continued to prioritize customer service, satisfaction, and unparalleled craftsmanship.

As of 2025, Brown Roofing Company, Inc. remains a family-owned and operated business, serving homeowners across Connecticut with roofing, gutter, and chimney services. Our company's longevity, commitment to our customers and reputation are a testament to our dedication to quality and community involvement. 

In Connecticut, roof replacement permit requirements can vary by town. While the state sets minimum standards, local municipalities may have additional rules or exemptions. For example, some towns may require a permit for structural changes or roofing material replacement, while others might not for minor repairs. It’s essential to consult with local building departments for specific requirements which all have varying guidelines.

At Brown Roofing, we handle all the permit applications and ensure that every aspect of your roof replacement complies with local regulations. Our licensed and experienced team ensures a smooth process, from securing the proper permits to completing the installation, so you can enjoy peace of mind throughout the project.

Yes, in Connecticut, you can install a new roof over an existing one, but there are specific conditions and limitations you must adhere to. According to the 2022 Connecticut State Building Code, specifically Chapter 15 on Roof Assemblies, recovering or replacing existing roof coverings must comply with the standards set forth in the code.

Key Considerations

1. Layer Limitations: The 2015 Connecticut International Residential Code stipulates that no more than two layers of roof shingles are allowed. If your existing roof has two layers, the old roofing must be removed before installing a new one.

2. Structural Integrity: The roof structure must be capable of supporting the additional weight of the new roofing material. If there are concerns about the load-bearing capacity, a structural assessment is recommended.

3. Local Regulations: Municipalities may have specific regulations or requirements regarding roofing projects. It's advisable to consult with your local building department to ensure compliance with local codes. All Brown Roofing projects and crews strictly adhere to local codes.

4. Permit Requirements: In most cases, a building permit is required for reroofing projects. The application process typically involves submitting construction documents and may require approval from the local building official. Brown Roofing will take care of all required permits for your roofing project.

Recommendations

* Consult Local Authorities: Before proceeding, contact your local building department to verify specific requirements and obtain necessary permits.

* Professional Assessment: Consider having a licensed contractor like Brown Roofing (CT #HIC.0549011) or structural engineer assess the condition of your existing roof to determine if overlaying is a viable option.

* Long-Term Considerations: While overlaying can be a cost-effective solution, at Brown Roofing we feel that removing the old roofing material will more provide benefits such as improved ventilation and a longer lifespan for the new roof.

If you need assistance or have further questions about the process, feel free to contact us 203-723-1372.

Yes. There are different classes and types of asphalt shingles, each designed for varying levels of performance, durability, and weather resistance. Your Brown Roofing Sales associate will explain each type and class. Here’s a breakdown of the main classes and types of asphalt shingles:

TYPES of Asphalt Shingles

1. 3-Tab Shingles (Basic/Strip Shingles)

• Flat, single-layer design
• Least expensive and most basic option
• Typically lasts 15–25 years
• Lower wind resistance (60–70 mph)
• Less dimensional look
• Often found on budget-conscious or older homes

 Best for: Budget installs or rental properties

2. Architectural Shingles (Dimensional/Laminate)

• Two or more layers bonded together for a dimensional appearance
• Much more durable and weather-resistant
• Typically lasts 25–30+ years
• Higher wind resistance (up to 130 mph with proper installation)
• More attractive and common in modern residential roofing

 Best for: Most residential homes in Connecticut — IKO Dynasty is in this category.

3. Luxury or Designer Shingles

• Heavier, larger, and more decorative
• Mimics look of slate or wood shake
• Highest material cost among asphalt options
• Longest lifespan and most impact resistance

 Best for: High-end homes, historic restoration, or homeowners wanting enhanced curb appeal

 CLASSES of Impact Resistance (Class 1–4)

These ratings come from the UL 2218 impact test, which simulates hail damage.

• Class 1: Lowest impact resistance
• Class 2: Moderate resistance
• Class 3: Good protection
• Class 4: Highest rating — can withstand 2" steel ball dropped from 20 feet

 Class 4 shingles may qualify for insurance discounts in hail- or storm-prone areas.

 Examples:

• IKO Dynasty: Not Class 4, but extremely durable and high-wind rated
• IKO Nordic: Class 4 rated
• CertainTeed NorthGate, GAF Timberline AS II: Also Class 4

In Summary:

When choosing asphalt shingles, you’re deciding between:

• Type (3-tab vs. architectural vs. luxury)
• Class (impact resistance level)

For Connecticut homeowners, Brown Roofing recommends architectural shingles with strong wind and algae resistance. Class 3 (IKO Dynasty) or higher. If storms are a concern, for homes along the coastline or in wind prone areas, consider Class 4 impact-rated such as IKO Nordic for added peace of mind.

Would you like this turned into a blog post or side-by-side comparison chart for customer education?

Yes - but it depends on your roof's age, condition, and structure.

1. Roof Condition & Age Matter

* If your roof is less than 10 years old and in good condition, you can usually add solar panels without replacing it.

* If your roof is 10-20 years old, it's worth having a professional inspection first. You don't want to install panels and then have to remove them a few years later for a roof replacement.

* If your roof is near the end of its life (often 20+ years for asphalt shingles), most experts recommend replacing it first.

2. Structural Considerations

* The roof must be strong enough to handle the added weight of solar panels and racks.

* An inspection can confirm if the framing and decking are sound.

3. Warranty Concerns

* Installing solar can involve drilling into the roof. If done incorrectly, it could void part of your roof warranty.

* Use a solar company that works with - or coordinates directly with - your roofer to ensure the flashing, sealing, and warranty protection are done right.

4. Long-Term Costs

* If you need to replace your roof after solar is installed, you'll have to pay to remove and reinstall the panels, which can add several thousand dollars to the project.

Pro tip:
At Brown Roofing, we often coordinate roof replacement and solar installation in the same project so the homeowner gets a fresh roof + solar with full warranty protection and no risk of rework costs later.

Preventing ice dams comes down to controlling heat loss from your home, improving roof ventilation, and ensuring proper water-shedding protection.

1. Improve Attic Insulation

* Goal: Keep the roof deck cold so snow melts evenly and doesn't refreeze at the edges.

* Add high R-value insulation in the attic (blown-in cellulose or fiberglass batts).

            * The R-value is a measure of how well the material resists heat flow.

* Seal air leaks around light fixtures, chimneys, plumbing vents, and attic hatches to stop warm indoor air from escaping into the attic.

2. Maximize Roof Ventilation

* Goal: Maintain a consistent roof deck temperature from peak to eaves.

* Use ridge vents at the peak and soffit vents at the eaves for balanced airflow.

* Ensure vents are unobstructed by insulation or debris.

* Consider adding a baffle system to keep insulation from blocking airflow at the eaves.

3. Install an Ice & Water Shield

* Place ice & water barrier membrane under the shingles, extending from the eaves at least 6-9 feet up the roof (or further if your local code requires).

* Brown Roofing, for example, wraps the shield onto the fascia for extra protection.

* This doesn't stop ice dams but helps prevent leaks if they occur.

4. Keep Gutters Clear

* Clean gutters in late fall to ensure melting snow can drain.

* Consider gutter guards to reduce clogging from leaves and debris.

5. Control Indoor Humidity

* Use bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans that vent outside (not into the attic).

* Keep attic humidity low to avoid frost buildup, which can melt and refreeze.

6. Be Proactive After Heavy Snow

* If you get a big storm followed by fluctuating temperatures:

* Use a roof rake from the ground to remove snow from the lower 3-4 feet of the roof.

* Avoid chipping ice with metal tools, as this can damage shingles.

7. Avoid "Quick Fix" Heat Cables Unless Necessary

* Heat cables can work as a last resort but they don't address the root cause (heat loss and ventilation issues).

* They can increase energy costs and sometimes create localized melting/refreezing.

Brown Roofing Tip: Owner Eddie Griffin often tells homeowners, "The best defense against ice dams is making sure your attic stays cold and your roof is built to handle winter. That means sealing air leaks, boosting insulation, and giving your roof room to breathe."

We are able to install most roofs within one day from start to finish to ensure we disrupt your daily routines as least as possible.

Yes — and the type of growth matters.

Moss – High risk. Moss traps moisture against shingles, which can lead to rot, lifted shingles, and leaks. In winter, trapped water can freeze and cause damage.

Lichen – Moderate to high risk. This hard, crusty growth clings to shingles, eating away at protective granules and accelerating wear.

Algae – Mostly cosmetic but still a concern. Those black streaks you see on many roofs are from blue-green algae. While they don’t typically eat through shingles, they can hold heat, shorten roof life, and invite moss growth.

Prevention matters. That’s why Brown Roofing installs IKO Dynasty® and IKO Nordic™ shingles, which feature embedded copper-coated granules designed to help inhibit the growth of blue-green algae. You get a roof that not only looks great but also resists unsightly streaking for years to come. Protect your home — and your curb appeal.

Schedule your free inspection today. 203-723-1372 | BrownRoofing.org

Brown Roofing’s Checklist for Choosing the Right Roofing Contractor Choosing the right roofing contractor boils down to a structured, informed comparison of local professionals. Here’s a condensed guide to help you make the best choice:

1. Build Your Shortlist


• Seek referrals from people you trust and scan neighborhood forums.


• Look online—focus on roofers in Fairfield, Litchfield & New Haven counties (and don’t forget to include Brown Roofing in your search!).

2. Confirm Credentials


• Licensing: They must hold a valid Connecticut HIC license.


• Insurance: At least $1–2 million general liability plus workers’ comp.


• Manufacturer Certifications: Gold stars from brands like IKO or GAF indicate extra training.

3. Review Reputation & Portfolio


• Read consistent 4–5 star reviews on Google, Facebook, BBB.


• Browse before-and-after photos on websites or social media.


• Talk to past clients in your area.

4. Interview Them


Ask questions such as: * How long have you been in business?

* What warranties cover labor and materials?

* Which shingle brands and underlayments do you install?

* Can I see proof of insurance and licensing?

* What’s your typical project timeline?

5. Compare Written Estimates


Ensure each bid is:

* Itemized for materials, labor, permits, disposal, cleanup

* Clear on payment schedule (deposits, progress, final)

* Complete with all warranties
Beware “too-cheap” quotes—they often hide corners cut.

6. Spot Red Flags


• Pressure tactics or “today-only” deals


• Requests for 100% up front


• No written contract or vague scope


• Refusal to share insurance or references

7. Document Everything


• Keep all bids, contracts, invoices and emails.


• Photograph your roof before work begins.


• Record any scope changes in writing.

Why Brown Roofing?


• 53 years serving 50,000+ Connecticut homeowners


• Fully licensed (HIC #), insured & OSHA-trained crews


• IKO RoofPro Craftsman Premier® & GAF Certified
• $15 M annual revenue supporting a $1 M service budget


• Unrivaled materials, workmanship warranty & award-winning service

You can Identify algae on your roof if you see black streaks or patches

Lichen is similar to moss but instead of being as thick and vibrant it is usually flat and a dull green or a seafoam green or a yellow tone.

Moss is less subtle than algae moss that grows on a roof looks exactly like the moss that grows on the ground. 

 With no vertical openings for water or clogging debris to enter, and no screens, inserts or filters to clog, the Gutter Shutter System completely encloses and protects.. Rainwater flows over and around the nose of the Gutter Shutter by the simple physical law of water surface tension. The Gutter Shutter System has more surface tension than any other system. Talk about peace of mind, knowing you no longer will be putting anyone's health or safety at risk that comes with climbing the ladder to clean your gutters. Your fascia is also protected from rotting. Our exclusive High Back system ensures your board is covered in aluminum, adding to Gutter Shutter's water management features.

The size of the roof definitely affects the amount of people that we will bring but the average crew size is 8-10 people. Here at Brown Roofing we emphasize safety, and quality, but if you need a job done as quick as possible we can bring in more people to get the job done the way you want it and when you want it done. 

Your roof should be inspected every 10 years, after a major storm or if there is visible damage

Gutters should be cleaned 2 times a year at minimum. Once in spring and once in fall. Ideally you want to clean the gutters after all the leaves have fallen off the trees in the fall so you have proper drainage during the winter.

The most common cause of a leak is simply poor craftsmanship, if the roof was built well then it should not leak. The most common places we see these leaks are around the flashing. 

Every roof is required to have ventilation, and most houses have two different types working together. Some of these include the ridge vent, gable vent, louver vent, and soffit vent.

There are many factors that will affect the cost of a roof replacement, but the major ones are the type of materials used, whether or not the decking layer needs to be replaced and the size of the roof.

The Gutter Shutter System attaches directly to the fascia board on your home, in no way interfering or associated with the roof.

Even if the final payment has been made you can still call us and ask any questions pertaining to your roof or roofs in general. We are open Monday-Friday, give us a call!

We serve all of Western CT, up to the Connecticut river. 

Warranties vary from contractor to contractor and shingle manufacturer to manufacturer. All roof replacements done by Brown Roofing are backed by a 50 YEAR Warranty! We have been keeping homes safe and dry since 1972. That makes us one of the few to have been in business long enough to actually provide service on an industry leading warranty.

Of course! A brand new roof can dramatically increase the value of your home, even if the rest of the house is not in the best condition a new roof will draw everyone's attention away from the undesirable parts of the house.

NO. It is a common misconception Installing any type of gutter guards under the shingles will not void your roof warranty. Your roof warranty will be void if the guard requires screws or nails to be driven straight through all layers of the roof and without any sealant. Some customers still allow this to happen on their home and some gutter guards believe that is okay to do.

RainDrop Gutter Guards can be installed under the shingle or "Drop-In" style.