FaQ

Cleaning out the gutters on your roof may seem like a menial task, especially during fall or spring. If you neglect this task, you may experience major problems at a later stage. From roof leaks to serious foundation damage, clogged gutters or damaged gutters can increase the need for expensive repairs when they are left untreated for an extended period of time.

Understanding the Importance of Roof Gutters

Unfortunately, most homeowners do not spend a lot of time thinking about their gutters. This part of your roof is designed to funnel water off the roofing and away from your home. By doing so, the foundation, doors, windows, and siding are protected against water damage. Here is a quick look at the main benefits of having well-functioning gutters:

• Prevent fungi from damaging your landscape, i.e. killing nearby trees and flowers.
• Protect your building’s exterior from rust and rotting issues.
• Protects your building’s painted layer.
• Prevents staining of home’s exterior.
• Eliminates standing water (an ideal breeding ground for mosquitoes and other insects).
• … and more!

Now that you are aware of the importance of gutters, let’s take a closer look at the various damages clogged gutters can do.

Clogged Gutters Cause Ice Dams to Form

Homes that are located in naturally cold climates may experience ice dam formations. These ice dams typically form on the gutters. In some cases, they can be found on the roof’s lower edges. These dams cause water to pool and seep into your building. When the water continues to seep into your home, excessive moisture can damage your walls, ceilings, insulation, and other hard-to-reach areas. Although clean gutters still allow ice dams to form on homes, they can drain away unwanted water, which decreases the chance for ice dams. Clogged gutters, on the other hand, just make things worst than it already is.

Clogged Gutters Cause Landscape Damage

When your home’s gutters clog, water tends to spill over the side. When it does, it typically lands on flower beds, shrubs, or small trees that surround the base of your home. You have spent many hours each week caring for your landscape. Do not let clogged gutters destroy your work. It is imperative that you inspect and clean out your gutters at regular intervals. This practice will save you from unnecessary heartache.

Clogged Gutters Cause Wood Damage

The components that secure your gutter system are often made of wooden materials. For example, the fascia boards. If the gutters clog, they tend to fill up with water. These events cause the boards deteriorate and eventually rot. If your home’s siding is also made of wood, these areas will also be affected. When gutters clog, they also cause water to overflow out of the system and down the sides of your home. What a mess!

Clogged Gutters Cause Foundation Damage

One of the main roles that gutter systems have involves channeling water off the roof. This ensures that water doesn’t get into the home’s foundation. Blocked gutters can cause water to pour over the sides and then pool around the foundation. You may not notice any issue at the early stages. However, cracks eventually form, and they damage the foundation. You risk allowing the structure to collapse. Even if the foundation doesn’t fail, you could still experience mold growth.

Also known as rubber roofs, EPDM roof systems are a common choice for low sloped roofing for residential properties. These roofs have an average life expectancy of between 15 and 20 years. Compared to other roof systems that utilize hot asphalt or an open flame, EPDM roofs are safer. Additionally, they are easier to repair and maintain if leaks or other forms of damages occur. When it comes to repairing such roofs, here are some basic steps to keep in mind:

Step One: Prepare and Clean the Area that Needs to be Repaired

EPDM contains carbon within its membrane due to the layer’s aging effects. If you try rubbing your hand across the sheet, you will see carbon black particles (i.e. oxidized particles and dirt) on your hand’s surface. That’s why the surfaces of these sheets must be thoroughly cleaned. This ensures that the repair patch sticks to the roof membrane’s surface without problems. It is important to use cleaning solutions that do not leave residues behind. If you clean and remove all of the mentioned impurities, you can expect to enjoy long-term performance.

Step Two: Size and Cut the Repair Patch

Before applying the primer, measuring the roof repair patch is pertinent. Lay it over the area that needs to be patched. Outline the patch with a two-inch allowance around the perimeter. It should extend beyond the damaged area, in all directions. After that, you can proceed to cut out the repair material. Remember to clip or round the corners of the patch. Sharp corners tend to be lifted or caught by foot traffic.

Step Three: Get Ready for the Priming Process

The surface of the membrane, where the roof repair patch is to be applied, requires a thin coat of primer. You can apply the primer by using a paintbrush or paint roller (preferably medium-nap). When you apply the primer, make sure that you go past the edges of where the patch is to be applied. This is a popular technique that helps ensure that all the leading edges of the repair patch adhere to the roof membrane.

Step Four: Repair Patch Installation

Never use yellow glue to adhere non-pressure-sensitive backing. The adhesive needs to be made for sealing EPDM-to-EPDM materials. For example, a single-ply EPDM adhesive. For pressure-sensitive roof repair patches, it is recommended that you use a steel roller to apply the patch. In addition, you must remove the film or paper backing from the patch. After applying firmly on the surface, proceed to press any trapped air out. The adhesive should flash off to the point it is no longer tacky to the touch. It is a good idea to also use EPDM lap sealant. Just apply a bead of the product. It should be used around the leading edges of the patch. This prevents water infiltration from causing further damage.

Caution

EPDM roofing membranes are not compatible with asphalt-based products. Asphalt-based roof coatings can contaminate synthetic rubber membranes to a point where the entire roof system needs to be replaced.

Alternatively, you can leave these tasks to professional roof repair specialists. They can make sure that everything is done correctly, which minimizes both near- and long-term costs related to roof repair and maintenance.

Roofs, e.g. flat roofs, are an integral component of any commercial or residential building. It is imperative that they are installed and maintained correctly in order to stay functional. Roof maintenance mistakes can be costly because they lead to more serious problems, e.g. structural damage, major leaks, collapsed roof, sullied business image, and more. Below is a list of common mistakes that individuals make. Make sure that you avoid them!

Poor Ventilation

When a new roof is being installed, ventilation has to be accounted for. The lack of proper ventilation tends to cause excess moisture to build up. If there is too much moisture, the growth of decay, mildew, and mold will accelerate. Fortunately, there are ways to prevent this problem. For example, you can install a pop-up vent and ventilator on both ends of the roof. Next, the ventilator should be checked at regular intervals. During inspection procedures, keep an eye out for any build-up of moisture.

Accumulated Ice and Snow

Ice and snow are known to accumulate during the winter months. These elements can seriously damage your roofs. Many homeowners and business owners may neglect to remove ice and snow that have accumulated. This leads to leaks, freeze-thaw, and ponding. They may avoid these tasks because they may lack the knowledge and equipment to perform the task. In this case, you should call in a professional.

D.I.Y Roof Installation

In some cases, poor installation practices can cause roofing problems. For example, the flashing may have been installed wrongly, there is inadequate caulking, or there is the presence of weak membranes. If you suspect that your roof has installation mistakes, consulting a roofing professional is pertinent. Conducting a comprehensive roof inspection procedure will help diagnose and repair issues before they worsen.

Neglecting Repairs

Another mistake that people make includes failing to make adequate or timely repairs. Some people have the impression that there is no need to address minor roofing issues or they only choose to address visible issues. When it comes to roof repairs, it is important that you fix the root of the problem.

Applying Incompatible Roof Coatings

Depending on your location and the climate, you will need to apply certain types of roof coating. These coatings are essential for protecting the integrity of your roof. Apart from forgetting to apply adequate coating, some people may apply coatings that are not suited for snow, rainfall, or humidity. Contact a roofing contractor to determine a coating that is right for your roof.

Lack of Proper Drainage

After your roof has been installed, you need to ensure that the drain spouts are in the correct location and they are adequately sloped. A poor drainage system can allow water to pool in that area. If the problem persists over time, leaks will start to occur, and your roofing materials will become damaged or start rotting. Even if everything is in place, you should check for ponding water from time to time and clear the drain spouts by removing debris.

Pro tip: By routinely inspecting your roof, i.e. checking for drainage issues or ponding water, you can avoid and reduce costly damages. It is recommended that a professional roof maintenance and inspection team completes these tasks at least once a year.

A roof is probably the most important part of your home or commercial property. It shields your home from high winds, rain, harsh UV rays, and more. If it is seriously damaged, and not repaired in time, it is a risk to both you and your family members. There are instances where you require a roof replacement. However, this type of roofing service can be tricky to navigate at times. Don’t worry. With these useful tips, you will be able to get it done right. Read on if you need to get a new roof over your head!

What You Should Do During Roof Replacement

• Protect your house and your belongings

Roofing contractors will inform their clients that roof replacement procedures are messy and noisy. When the handle your roof, they are not fully liable for any damage that happens within your home. You should always play it safe by preparing your home and making sure that your valuables are secure throughout the process.

• Check the wind, impact, and fire ratings of the new roofing materials

No matter what roofing materials you choose to replace your old roof with, they need to be of the highest quality. A good way to examine them is to check their ratings. You should ask and check how the materials perform against wind, impact, and fire. When it comes to ratings, the higher they are the better. Highly rated materials are durable and can withstand a lot of punishment from the elements.

• Conduct a background check on your roofing company

No contractor closes a project only via their fine print. Aside from consider paper-based credentials, you need to ensure that they are professional and possess many years of experience in this field. You can try contacting past clients to learn more about their experiences with the roofing contractor. Are they licensed? Do they offer warranties or are insured?

What Not To Do During Roof Replacement

• Stay inside your home while the roof is being replaced

You can supervise the roof replacement project as it happens, but you should never stay inside your home. You not only suffer from the mess and noise. You might even get in the way of your own roofing contractors. Consider finding a temporary place to stay in the meantime. Alternatively, you might want to go on a long vacation.

• Think that price is all that matters

Whether you are replacing your old roof with steel roofing or shingle roofing, you should never focus solely on the price. Remember, you pay for the quality you want. While you can spend a bit more on your desired roofing materials, you should not go too far from your budget.

• Communicate at the last minute

Updates and changes to your roof replacement project need to be discussed as soon as possible. You should always meet your roofing specialist as scheduled. For example, planning to go from sheet metal roofing to rubberized roofing may affect your budget. Don’t underestimate the importance of instant communication.

Before you get a roof replacement, it is important that you first facilitate professional roof inspection. This will help you make an informed decision. In some cases, you might only need repairs, which will cost lesser than an entire replacement.

When it comes to home maintenance, the thing that we usually ignore is the roof. Leaking roofs and flooded basements are two of the most common reasons that cause water damage. Roof inspection must be done at least two times in a year, after every severe storm. There are many ways to inspect the roof. Here are a few steps you can take:

Take A Walk

Taking a walk around the exterior of your home allows you to spot signs of damage, aging and sagging. For areas that require closer inspection, make sure that you are taking notes as you walk. Such areas may have piles of leaves, algae and moss. They may be responsible for causing water damage and costly leaks.

Look Out For Curled And Buckled Shingle Roof Tiles

Keep an eye on buckled and curled shingle roof tiles. It can happen due to hot air escaping from the attic, causing the shingles to curl away from their base. Not only does it put your roof at a greater risk but also your entire home. It exposes your interior to weather damage and poor roof ventilation. The main reason behind extensive roof damage is damaged shingles. Unforgiving weather conditions can inflict a lot of damage in various ways.

Cleaning Gutters

It is important to maintain your downspouts and thoroughly clean your gutters and roof overhangs. Take note if there are rotting materials or open joins. These are typical indicators of a bigger and more serious problem that is silently brewing.

Keep An Eye For Texture On Shingles

Watch closely for granular loss or textured shingles. It is probably an indication that the shingle roofing has aged. It may be that your roof has been severely impacted by bad weather. In this case, your current roof may no longer be protecting your home against unfavorable weather conditions. It is high time you considered a replacement, especially if you find your shingles are not texturized.

Inspect Your Counter Flashing

It’s time to grab the ladder, go on top of the roof and examine your counter flashing (leave this task to a professional if you are not confident). Safety first! This is a waterproof metal strip that is installed across roofing areas which need additional protection. While inspecting the roof, look out for shrinking, cracked or damaged sealant at the edges of the counter flashing. If you discover that the seal has been compromised, your attic and roof will be vulnerable to moisture damage. In case your home doesn’t have an attic, watch out for water penetration signs under the roof.

Once you are done inspecting the roof, take your time to analyze the findings. Did you come across any potential issue or a major concern? If you answered yes, you should contact a professional immediately. Always remember that it’s your home, and any measure you take regarding its maintenance, is going to increase its value. Fixing minor concerns and problems before they become worse is the key behind hassle-free roof maintenance for your home. At A. Stewart Roofing and Waterproofing, we make it a point to show up on time and carry out roof inspection efficiently and quickly. We can get to the root of the problem and fix it at the earliest.

A roof replacement is different from replacing your front door. It can be a big financial decision for some homeowners. Due to this fact, some people tend to put the matter off until the very last minute. If the color of your ceiling looks stranger than usual, it’s a sign that something is wrong with it. The damage has been done. Oftentimes, this is the point where water starts dripping or leaking from the roof. In this case, you might need to fix the rest of your house. That is why regular roof maintenance is strongly recommended. Below are some scenarios where getting a new roof will be appropriate.

How Old is Your Roof?

If your roof was constructed with high-quality materials, it should last between 12 and 15 years. However, storm damage can still affect its overall service lifespan. If a roof is nearing its end date, it is recommended that you start considering a replacement. Do keep in mind that roof damage gets worse with time.

Do You Have a Doubled Layer Roof?

Some roofs have an additional layer of roofing material over it. Also known as a nail over, it is a poor way of replacing a roof. The bottom layer may already be rotten, especially at the sheathing. This will shorten the life of a roof and you will need to deal with expensive repairs down the road. You should keep in mind that you are having two roofs. It is going to add significant weight onto your home.

Are You Selling Your Home?

If you are putting your property up for a housing sale, a damaged roof is going to make it less desirable to potential buyers, even in a brisk seller’s market. If the buyer notices your compromised roof, he or she is going to demand more than the price of the roof for a discount. Next, the insurance company that conducts the home inspection may deny coverage to your house. Lastly, most lenders do not extend a mortgage on a house that has a damaged roof.

Is Your Roof’s Flashing Damaged?

What is roof flashing? It is the part that protrudes from the roof. With the help of underlayment, these roofing components keep water from getting underneath your shingle roof tiles. You should keep a lookout for missing or rusted flashing located around vent pipes, chimneys, and the valleys between roof parts. If you spot these things, chances are you need a new roof to prevent water from seeping into your attic over time.

What is the Condition of Your Gutters and Shingle Roof Tiles?

Gutters are designed to prevent moisture damage to your home and keep water off your roof. When your roof sheds rainwater to the gutters, pay attention to these areas. It should give you a good idea of the current condition of your roofing system. You should clean the gutters at least twice annually. If a roof is deteriorating, you might spot pieces of roofing material or asphalt granules. Damaged, missing, torn, loose, and curled shingle roofing tiles are also signs of a compromised roof.

Installing a proper waterproofing system ensures that your property is protected from high heating and cooling costs, rising damp, and water leak damage. In order to maintain efficient functioning of the roof, you need to facilitate regular maintenance procedures. Waterproofing alone is not enough to guarantee the protection of your property. You will have to make sure that your insulation systems and waterproofing maintenance works are scrutinized on a regular basis. Even a small problem needs to be addressed at the earliest and treated promptly to avert high costs associated with emergency repairs or when the situation worsens.

What Is The Ideal Time To Carry Out Waterproofing Maintenance?

There is no general convention that preventive maintenance should be carried out after a certain period of time. However, you can do that once every four months, which is around 3 times a year. This includes checking for vegetation that’s growing in close proximity, and inflicting damage with the roots, or by blowing against the roof. Also, you should clean out gutters and ensure that water is efficiently directed away from your residence. You should be aware of the building’s condition at all times. In case you see any sign pertaining to moisture damage or leakage, you need to respond as quickly as possible to avoid costly repairs.

It is of utmost importance to carry out on-going building maintenance. The building, whether an industrial facility, apartment complex, commercial unit, house or a high-rise structure, is a major investment that needs to be maintained to protect the property value. Advanced maintenance includes specialized external coating that can protect timber substrates, wallboard cladding, metal and concrete. Some of the tell-tale signs of a damaged roof include:

• Discolored or brown spots and marks on the ceiling.
• Damp spots or water marks on walls.
• Mold growth on the walls or ceiling.
• Due to high heating, you may also receive high utility bills, which is also an indication that your home is losing heat/energy due to poor insulation and/or waterproofing.

What Needs To Be Done?

Proper insulation is the best way to achieve good airflow and proper ventilation.  In order to protect a home from high heating conditions, it’s a good idea to include an insulation layer on the attic floor and a vapor retarder under the insulation layer to stop any form of moisture from rising into the attic. Having vented open spaces allow free passage of air, with at least an inch between the roof sheathing and insulation, is also recommended.

All in all, you should always consult a professional roof inspection and waterproofing team. They are in a better position to determine how efficient your current waterproofing system is. They will get to the root cause of the problem and ascertain what needs to be done to improve the situation. Facilitating professional roof maintenance at regular intervals can save you money and time. Additionally, it will be easier for you to sell your property in the future.

Homes, hotels, barns, offices, stores, etc. Steel roofing is everywhere. They offer a wide variety of advantages and can be installed for different applications. Find out more about this type of roof so that you can become a better-informed consumer.

Understanding Steel Roofing

As the residential market continues to boom, more homeowners are realizing the wonders of installing steel roofing. For starters, consumers have found that this particular roofing can save them money in the long run. Additionally, the size of one’s roof does not matter when it comes to installing this roofing. Steel roofing systems can accommodate any roof size. In some cases, steel roofing has also been used as an accent for awnings or as part of an existing roof. If you are interested in the latter option, you should consult a roofing specialist to ensure that the two different materials are compatible. If not, they may degrade one another.

Next, steel roofs are chosen for commercial applications due to their stellar weather resistance to moisture and wind. Places that are affected by tropical weather or hurricanes often have buildings with steel roofs. Aside from that, this type of roof also gives commercial building owners the peace of mind that their roof does not need heavy maintenance. Here is a quick look at various commercial buildings that install steel roofs:

• Transportation buildings
• Hotels
• Offices
• Retail stores
• Restaurants
• Military installations
• Government buildings
• Churches
• Schools
• Hospitals

Top Reasons for Steel Roof Installation

• They can be installed quickly

A steel roof can be put up over an existing roof. This option also causes less disruption to you and your neighbors.

• Lightweight properties

When it comes to roofing materials, steel is one of the lightest materials available. It typically weights 1.5 pounds per square foot and there is no need to reinforce your home.

• Tough like steel

Pun intended! As steel is weather-resistant and durable, it can outlast other roofing materials in any season. The material can stand up against the effects of the sun, rain, hail and even hurricane force winds. Additionally, it can last up to five decades.

• Versatility

Steel roofs come in a wide array of designs and styles. In fact, it is exceptionally customizable and can be made to look like other types of roofs.

• Adds value to your home

Making up approximately 80 percent of the metal roofing market, the demand of steel continues to rise. The popularity of the material also provides better resale values to homeowners.

• Easy to maintain

A steel roof does not warp, shrink, or crack under the effects of sunlight, humidity, and other weather conditions. Roof maintenance is extremely easy.

• Reduce cooling and heating costs

Many steel roofs are energy efficient. These roofs have high reflectivity and can deflect sunlight to prevent it from being absorbed. During the winter months, the roof can also act as an insulator.

• High level of safety

You should keep in mind that steel roofs are extremely fire-resistant. It insulates against sparks well, which helps to prevent a fire from spreading around your home. In fact, these roofs have a Class A rating as a noncombustible roofing material. It is the highest possible rating!

When a roof is leaking, it may be a sign that there is a much larger problem. If you do not address the issue in time, the probability of structural erosion increases. You may also put you and other building occupants in greater danger. It is imperative that you be vigilant and search for leaks if they should occur. Alternatively, you can consult a company that specializes in professional roof inspection. Read on to find out more about the dangers of ignoring a leaking roof.

A Leaking Roof: Understanding the Dangers of Waiting

Leaks do not fix themselves. Additionally, the situation does not improve on their own. That is why it is important to act quickly if you encounter a leaking roof. Some homeowners or business owners, who noticed a stain on their ceiling, often think that it is not a serious issue. Avoid making the same mistake! Ignoring and avoiding something that has been bubbling for a while now will not fix a leak in your roof. If you wait any longer, it may be already too late. According to the National Roofing Contractors Association, property owners should inspect their roofs at least twice a year, i.e. in fall and spring.

What Do You Look Out For?

Exterior signs:

• Visible wear around vents and chimneys
• Loose materials
• Slow-draining or clogged gutters
• Buckling, blistering, broken, peeling, rotting, warped, and missing shingle roof tiles

Interior signs:

• Signs of sagging
• Spots that allow external light sources to shine through
• Dark spots

How Do You Contain a Leak?

• Step one: Look out for any discoloration in your ceiling. Check if there is water dripping from a bulge. Chances are you will find water pooling on the other side of a dark spot or bulge. Quickly grab a container and place it under the site of the suspected leak. Additionally, you can also prop up a plastic board inside the container. This way, the drips do not hit the accumulated water. A great technique to minimize the distracting dripping sound.
• Step two: Find an old screwdriver, located the center of the leak bulge, and puncture it. It may seem like a strange idea to create a hole in your ceiling. However, it is necessary if you want to stop a leak. The hole allows the water to drain smoothly. It also helps relieve pressure on the rest of your ceiling. Oftentimes, ceilings collapse because of water ponding.
• Step three: This step applies if you are confident that you know the location of the leak (i.e. you might be on top of your roof). You must ensure that you know how to get to the source too. Once there, use a large tarp to cover the exterior surface. If you can’t reach that location, do not proceed any further. Contact a roofing specialist immediately. You should keep in mind that this is only a temporary fix to minimize the damage that may occur inside your home.

If your roof is less than two decades old, it can be repaired and an entire roof replacement may not be necessary. Lastly, always keep in mind that small leaks do not go away. They will worsen over time.

There are so many different types of roof shingles out there, and to be honest, you normally don’t pay attention to the differences. After all, a house is a house and a roof is a roof. But now, suddenly, you have a new roof installation project on your hands, and you need to know a thing or two about shingle roofing! Furthermore, your contractor is asking you to choose which shingle you would like for your roof so that they can source the materials for you and get started on the construction. Where do you even begin to choose a shingle type? Start with these few points to consider.

Estimate Number Of Shingles Needed

This can sometimes be a very wild estimate, but it’s as good a place as any to start. You can make a rough estimation of the number of tiles you need by following these steps. First, take a tape measure and take down the measurements of the length and width of your roof area. Multiply them together to get a gauge of the square footage. Add another 10 or 20 percent to factor in the slope of the roof, as well as potential wastage or broken tiles. At the end of this exercise, you would have a number that you can use to multiply by the type of shingle you end up choosing.

Take Your Pick Of Shingle Types

Different shingles are made of different materials, and this will affect the cost, as well as the quality. What would you consider to be the best balance of value for your home needs? A cheaper option like the asphalt shingle would only last 10 to 20 years, but a slate one that would last 100 years might put your entire family in debt. Decide based on all the factors you have to consider, such as weather conditions in your area or aesthetic function, which type of shingle you would prefer to get.

Choose A Color Of Your Preference

Shingle color also affects not just aesthetics, but other things like the temperature of the house. Light shingles can reflect light and heat away during hot seasons, but darker ones retain warmth during cold seasons. Depending on your climate, you can choose which color you would prefer your shingles to come in. Most shingles can come in various colors, for example, even wood shingles can be stained to take on a darker wood appearance, but materials like slate may not vary much in shade.

Check For Warranty On Materials And Workmanship

The building materials would usually come with a five-year warranty after installation to cover any defective products that fail out of no fault of yours. However, the workmanship is also very important, because the warranty would then cover their labor costs for repairs should any unexpected issue come up after installation. Work with a contractor whom you feel you can trust, and which comes with the right licenses and credentials. This contractor would also likely have a good sense of which are the best types of shingles to recommend on the market.

So you’ve just installed a new roof, and you’re trying to figure out how long you can go for without having to pay for a roof re-installation and go through the process all over again. Or perhaps you are trying to decide what material of roof you would like to go for before starting a roof installation project with a licensed contractor. Here is a list of various roof types for you to consider, starting with the most typical roofing type: asphalt shingles.

Asphalt Shingles

These are the most common type of roofing used by homes in the United States. Shingles are common, and many people have a box of spare shingles lying around in their garage or basement in case a repair job calls for them. There are a few types of shingles to take note of, each with their own differences in quality and durability.

• 3-tab shingle: The most basic and cheapest option for sloped roofs. Lasts 10-20 years. Max wind uplift of 60 to 70 MPH. Suitable for temperate climates, but not enough for storm-prone areas or thermal shocks.
• Architectural or Dimensional Shingles: Thicker than the 3-tab shingle. Lasts 15-25 years. Max wind uplift of 110 MPH, which can be increased to 130 MPH with a special roof frame bracing.
• Premium shingles: More aesthetic, usually thicker than architectural shingles. Lasts 20-30 years. Max wind uplift also 110 MPH to 130 MPH. Can include special properties like enhance solar reflection and impact resistance for areas that experience hail.

Metal Roofs

As metal is very hardy and durable, as well as not so expensive depending on the material, this is also a popular option for roofs, albeit potentially not as aesthetic as other options. A typical standing seam metal roof is made of thick, high grade steel, and can last from 30 to 50 years, whereas premium metals like stainless steel, titanium, zinc and copper can last over 100 years.

• Standing seam metal roof: A popular option. Lasts 30-50 years. Max wind uplift of 90 – 150 MPH (usually 110 MPH).
• Metal shingles: Also popular and more aesthetic for homes. Typically these are 20-30% cheaper than standing seam roofs. Similar durability to standing seam roofs.
• Ribbed metal panels: Good option for a steeper, gable style roof. Lasts 25 – 50 years, depending on the type of installation.
• Stone-coated steel tiles: A lightweight, durable, lasting alternative to traditional shingles and tiles. Lasts 30 – 50 years. Max wind uplift 110 – 155 MPH. Excellent for hurricane environments.

Concrete And Clay Tiles

Clay tiles are the best option if you’re going for quality over everything. Clay, due to its weight, look great on premium homes, and also require a specially designed roof frame to be able to adequately support the weight. Clay tiles have very good wind uplift ratings, but could be hazardous during a hurricane. Concrete tiles are less costly but also weighty, and can last 40 – 75 years.

Slate Tiled Roofs

This is typically reserved for the grander, more solid built homes as it requires a lot of support to handle the weight of the roof tiles. They have excellent wind uplift ratings, but similar to the concrete and clay tiles, can be a hazard in a hurricane situation.

It is no small task to install a new roof, be it on a brand new building, or especially if you’re replacing an old one. There are so many factors to consider as part of the job, and every step has to be given meticulous amounts of attention. The reason is that the roof is your strongest defense against the elements, be it sun, rain, or snow. You want to ensure the structural integrity of the roof so that it will be able to withstand even the harshest of seasons and last for one or two generations. However, there are so many roofing companies to choose from, and the options can be overwhelming. Where do you begin making a selection of companies to consider for your roofing project? Here are some tips that we hope will be able to help you in your selection process.

Look At Their Credentials

Experience counts for everything in this field of work. The more experience a company has in dealing with roof installations, the more likely they will be to be professional, fast, and thorough in their job. Make sure the company that you’re looking at has several years of experience. It helps, too, if they have experience working on houses in your area or the surrounding area, as they would be familiar with the weather conditions and also trends in roofing which is being done on other roofs in your area. Also, the company needs to have a license to operate legally. They should also have at least three testimonials so that you can read their previous clients’ experiences with them.

Get Different Quotations

Of course, you need to get a few quotations so you have a feel of what the market price is like, and whether you want to pay higher or lower than the market rate, for instance, depending on what value is offered. But aside from just deciding based on price point, the process of talking to different companies can also sometimes give you a sense of whether you would like to work with them on such a huge. Important project as installing a roof onto your house or building.

Inspect The Contract And Warranty Terms

The devil is in the details, as they say, and it goes without saying that before you enter into an agreement with a contractor, you should take a close look at the contract they offer up. While many companies use standard contracts, you cannot risk overlooking an added clause or two that may jeopardize your position in the agreement. Also check how long the warranty lasts, to make sure that your roof is covered against future damage. All materials and workmanship should have at least five years’ warranty on them, and the roof itself should be able to last a few decades.

Don’t Pay In Full Until The Job Is Done

Always take precautions and pay a deposit first, before giving over the rest of the money only after the job is satisfactorily done and inspected by yourself. Though expectations may be set at the beginning, they always need to be checked against what is delivered at the end.

This is probably the most exciting and fun part about choosing your new roof: picking out a color! However, this is also a color that you have to live with and see every single day, for a very long time depending on how long your roof lasts. Though many contractors may play it safe and offer up the most commonly chosen colors when in consultation with you about your roofing project, you might wish to have your own pick of the color you would like for your roof. A good roofing contractor would be able to assist and guide you in choosing the color that suits your house and your taste the best. It all depends on several factors which are listed below:

Color Coordination With Your Building Exterior

Normally, colors are picked according to a certain color palette. The color of your home’s exterior should be able to sit in a palette together with the roof color you desire. It always looks great to coordinate your shingles or tiles with your bricks so they complement each other. As an example, a gray or blue house would look great with a dark gray or even black roof, whereas warmer colors like brown, tan or cream would work well together.

The Climate In Your Area

Not many people think about this, but if you experience very hot summers or cold winters, this might affect your choice of shingle color. Light shingles would deflect sunlight and keep temperatures cooler during the summer, but dark shingles might be more appreciated in the winter as they absorb heat and can help melt snow and ice on the roof faster, and also keep the house a little warmer. The color of your shingles can actually affect your attic’s temperature by 20 – 40 degrees, so choose wisely!

Your Style Preference

Would you like a home that’s a standout, looking big, bold and beautiful? Or do you prefer a simpler, more humble abode? Usually, dark colors make a home look smaller, and light colors give the appearance of a larger home. This could also work in your favor depending on the size of your home building itself. This also comes into play based on whether you want to “make a statement” with your home or to maintain a more traditional look and blend in a little more with your neighbors.

The Availability Of Materials

Sometimes, your perfect color roof tile may actually not be available in your area or may cost you an arm and a leg just to get into your town. In that case, you might prefer to go for the options which are readily available, to save yourself the hassle and potential extra costs that come with insisting on your dream home roof tiles. The budget also comes into play sometimes and your items cannot be found at a price you’re willing to pay. Most of the time, though, you can find a close enough alternative that nobody would even realize the difference, and perhaps even yourself too.

Looking at the costs of hiring contractors to professionally replace your roof, you might start to wonder if you could save a ton of money by just doing it yourself. After all, how hard can it be to install a roof, right? Well, before you start following a YouTube video with a hammer and nails in hand, read this article to understand a little bit better about what it really means to DIY your own roof.

There Is No Warranty Coverage

It may not look like a difficult job to nail on a bunch of new shingles onto your roof – tiring, yes, but not difficult. Or so you think. Especially if you are not experienced or aware of certain things, you might actually botch up the job, which would require going back to redo it properly. By this time, you would most certainly want to hire a contractor – and you would be wishing that you had done so in the first place. Transfer the risk of potential issues arising post-installation to a contractor who would be able to come back and fix the problem for you under warranty.

You Put Yourself At Risk

More frequent accidents happen due to inexperienced hands, and in the course of attempting to undertake such a massive task by yourself, you might actually be putting your own safety at risk. Accidents range from hitting yourself with the hammer to slipping and falling off the roof (heaven forbid!). Keep yourself out of harm’s way by getting an experienced professional who has a much lower chance of hurting themselves as compared to you.

You End Up With Sub Standard Work

Professional contractors have years of experience installing roofs. Where you may have never installed a roof before, they, on the other hand, have probably installed hundreds. With their experience, not only would they be able to do the job faster, it would probably look better at the end. You wouldn’t have to risk realizing after your DIY job that there are rippling shingles, or that the shingles have the appearance of crooked teeth, like something out of a Halloween house!

A Serious Underlying Issue Might Be Overlooked

Another benefit of getting a professional to replace your roof is that they would have a critical eye for identifying whether or not there might be any other issues affecting your roof or ceiling. For example, there might be water collecting in your roof, seeping into the concrete which could cause serious damage such as structural failure if left untreated in the long term. Painting over a water stain does not make the underlying problem of an internal leakage go away. There may be other things you need to take a look at, which you might not even be aware of unless a professional is there to advise you.

 

Now that you know the implications of attempting to DIY your own roof, you can seriously consider whether or not this option is suitable for you. The bottom line is, unless you are an experienced contractor or have done such work many times in your own capacity in the past, you might not really know what you’re getting in for by considering taking an entire roofing project.

They are the shingles that you see on all the houses in your neighborhood, and everywhere you visit, and those overlapping tiles look extremely aesthetic. Now you want to get your own roof installed with shingle roofing as well, and you want to know what are those shingles that everyone seems to be using. What are these common shingle types that everyone is going for, and that looks so darned good? You might just find it in this list we’ve compiled!

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are also described as 3-tab shingles. They are one of the most commonly used types of shingles in North America. Asphalt shingles are rectangular and give a very neat look, like bricks, on your roof. As such, they complement brick walls very well. They are also among the cheapest roofing options and the easiest to install.

Architectural Shingles

These are actually a more expensive cousin of asphalt shingles, but also better quality. They are also known as dimensional shingles. Instead of the flat look of normal asphalt shingles, they give a more ‘dimensional’ or textured look to your roof. Architectural shingles can also be designed in a variety of styles to mimic old-world European roofing styles.

Clay Tile Shingles

These clay roofs used to be popular and can still be found in historical homes. The most distinctive variety are the ones with a wave-like shape and bright orange color, though they also come in other designs and colors. They are widely used in the Southwest, as they are a more energy efficient roofing option compared to asphalt and other materials.

Wood Shingles

Wood shingles are actually very popular because they offer great insulation, and are also very aesthetic. A sustainable roofing option, they have been used for centuries. Wood shingles are typically sawed into a smooth, tapered shape. They can also give the appearance of a laid-back place, and are particularly suitable for holiday homes.

Shake Shingles

Although also made of wood, shake shingles or “shakes” are not smoothly sawed down. Traditionally, they were made by splitting logs of wood against the grain, creating a jagged texture. Shakes are usually thicker than normal wood shingles. Cedarwood shakes have been around for hundreds of years, dating back to colonial times.

Metal Shingles

Though metal roofs are sometimes corrugated or come in sheets, there are also metal shingles. This is a more modern invention that allows a homeowner to pay less than they would have for clay tiles while achieving a similar look.

Slate Shingles

Often reserved for extremely sturdy houses because of the weight of the material, slate shingles were nevertheless very popular in the mid-1800s. Slate shingles are fireproof, eco-friendly, and very long lasting, easily able to outlast any of the other roofing options. Not only are they durable, the stone surfaces also create a beautiful, classy texture for your roof. Synthetic slate roof options are also now available.

When there are problems with the roof, it is hard to ignore. The constant dripping from the ceiling during a rainy spell, or worse, cold air blasting through the house in the fall or winter, will constantly remind you that you need to do something about the roof. But should you opt for roof repair, or should you consider a full roof replacement? There are several factors for you to consider before making a decision.

Severity Of Damage

If your roof is missing a few shingles, the most sensible idea is to simply replace them with your spare shingles which most contractors would have left behind after the roof was installed. If you can nail them down yourself, great, otherwise you could also hire a contractor to do the job for you inexpensively. This is ideal if only a few shingles are missing, but not if an entire section of your roof has been compromised.

Conspicuousness

How conspicuous is the hole in your roof? If it’s facing the front of your house where every person on the road can see it, then replacing those missing shingles with your spare ones might not go unnoticed. As roof shingles are exposed to the harsh elements like sun and rain, the color of the shingles will fade. It might, therefore, be difficult to match the spare shingles to the old ones, and it would be extremely obvious to everyone passing that you had patched the roof. Unless, of course, you have been storing your spare shingles out in the sun and they have faded to the same color as the ones on your roof!

Age Of The Roof

It is worth considering the age of your roof before making any decisions because if the roof is nearing the end of its estimated lifespan, it might well be more cost effective to do a full roof replacement to prevent having to do multiple patch up jobs. Asphalt roofs usually last for 20 to 30 years, but tile and metal roofs can last several decades. Depending on when your roof was installed, you can estimate whether or not the roof will start to give you more problems after this point.

Final Tip

The most important thing you should do is to get a professional consultant to inspect your roof before doing any work on it. A contractor with years of experience working with roofs would be able to observe your roof and identify any weak points, old age, and leaking in the roof, which are indications of more severe damage. They would be able to check if the underlying decking has also been damaged and there is a leak going through the layers of your roof. In this case, it would actually be more cost effective to replace the entire roof. There are roofing contractors who offer free consultations so you can get a professional’s opinion at no cost to yourself, to have a better idea of what decision to take.

A storm recently tore through your town, wrecking several roofs belonging to your neighbors, or maybe even yourself. A large tree failed to miss your roof as it was being cut down. Or even worse, a natural disaster like hailstones happened like a freak accident in your city. Is it time to get a roof replacement? We bring to you several factors to bear in mind before taking the plunge, and the huge investment needed for such a large scale job.

What’s The Damage?

Sometimes it could be a chunk of your roof smashed through from a great impact. Sometimes, a severe rainstorm barreled through your roof and is causing a large leak through the ceiling. It might even be a particularly harsh winter eating away at a roof that is reaching the end of its lifespan. When the damage is severe like this, you can’t just leave it alone. Don’t hesitate in making arrangements to get a roof replacement as the damage will get worse the longer you let it sit.

How Old Is Your Roof?

The age of your roof is an important factor in deciding whether or not the roof should be replaced. If your leaky roof is only five years old, then most like the problem is in the building materials used or the quality of the construction done, instead of wear and tear. If, however, your roof is twenty or thirty years old, it might be well due for a replacement anyway.

What Type Of Roof Is It?

The materials used to build the roof should be considered as well. Slate roofs last an extremely long time, so you should not have to replace it unless it is 100 years old or more, depending on whether it is soft or hard slate. A copper or zinc roof can also last for 100 years. On the other hand, a metal roof can last for 50 years, and typical asphalt shingles usually cannot reach 20 years without needing to be replaced. However, the new type of asphalt roofing has been designed to also last for 50 years.

Most Importantly:

Before making any rash decisions, get a professional consultant to inspect your roof. There may be weak points, hidden damages, and leaking in the roof, which are indications of more severe problems which only a contractor with years of experience working with roofs would be able to identify. Get them on board to check if the underlying decking has also been damaged, or there is a leak going through the layers of your roof, which might mean that it is more cost effective to replace the entire roof. It’s a big decision to take, and you want to be equipped with valuable opinions and the right resources before taking the plunge. You can request a free in-home consultation for yourself to get a professional opinion at no cost before you make a decision on what your next steps should be.

Roofs can add tons of personality to your home. Some are tall and pointy, others are short and stubby, whereas others still are completely flat. The architectural style of a particular town can often be distinguished by the type of roofs that people tend to build in that area, which does become a local point of interest. But these days, you have all the options at your fingertips for you to be able to build your roof in any style your heart desires. Here are the most common types of roofs that you could choose from.

Peaked Roof, or Gabled Roof

The most stereotypical type of roof that is probably the one which comes to mind when you imagine what a roof might look like. This roof has a distinctive triangular shape and can come in different heights. In fact, it could be an aesthetic function to have different heights of gabled roofs for different wings of the house.

Pyramid Roof

With four sides of equal size and slope coming together at a uniform point, this roof really evokes images of a pyramid. Usually, this roof is not used for an entire home, but instead smaller and specific parts of a home such as the pool house or garage, particularly uniformly-shaped buildings.

Hip Roof

True to its name, this type of roof is very hip. You would have seen this around, where the roof comes upwards like a pyramid, but instead of meeting at a point, it flattens out into a ridge instead. Not only does it look interesting, it also is much more stable than the pyramid roof, and less susceptible to being damaged by strong winds.

Flat Roof

A very distinctive roofing style, flat roofs offer the practicality of potentially having a rooftop garden or bar. This is a lovely idea especially in high-density cities, or in holiday destinations where a hotel can offer a rooftop bar or pool as part of their attractions. However, this type of roof may require more maintenance and repairs due to the build-up of debris, and may not slough away water as effectively as other roofs.

Skillion Roof

A very modern design, this has a long and sloping surface, like half of a gabled roof, or perhaps a flat roof on an incline. This type of roof looks quite art deco and adds a stylish touch to a building. This roof also is highly effective at draining rainwater, and can also be done in a modern style.

Saltbox Roof

Like the skillion roof, this one has a long sloping side, but there is a shorter side too, so there is a point at the top. Because of the steep incline of the long side, people sometimes have this roof when a house has one storey on one side and two storeys on another. Though this is not common, it really makes your home stand out from the other more traditional looking designs.

Water damage is one of the most problematic, yet commonly occurring problems faced by homes and buildings. You don’t need a natural disaster to strike – all you need is a spell of heavy rain to get through your roof and your house is compromised. While most roof types are already to some extent water-resistant because of the materials used, especially if the roof is efficient at sloughing water away, sometimes depending on your roof type, age, or the weather conditions in your area, waterproofing is a necessary measure to take. It is not only the roof which waterproofing protects but also the walls and structural integrity of your home.

Avoid Property Damage Due To Flooding

During a heavy rainstorm, the roof might not be able to withstand the constant attack on it by the elements. There may be some cracks that occur, and rain would be able to barrel through the ceiling into your home. If this is very serious, large holes would occur, allowing a flood of water to enter your home and fill up your home. While you wouldn’t drown from this kind of flooding, it would most certainly get into your furniture, walls, and other belongings, causing damage to all your items.

Avoid Compromising Structural Integrity

Water that seeps into the walls can damage the internal structure of your home. If the structural integrity of your home is compromised, it can lead to a whole host of problems as it is not only the roof that needs to be fixed but the building itself! By waterproofing your roof, you can avoid water damage from water entering your walls and staying there for long periods of time, slowly eating away at the building materials and causing it to rot, weakening the structure of your home.

Prevent Mold And Bacteria Growing

In damp conditions, mold, mildew, and bacteria are free to grow and spread as they please. You would end up with their spores flying around the room, which ends up getting breathed in by yourself and your family members. Especially if you have young children, this could make them fall very sick and cause unhappiness for the whole family. Protect yourself and your family by avoiding the growth of mold, mildew, and bacteria in your home.

Promote Efficient Cooling Of Your Home In The Summer

When there are cracks in the walls or roof, and water seeps in, the air in the house becomes extremely humid. Humid air in the summertime makes you feel dreary and dragged down, as the air is unable to circulate as efficiently as drier air. The humid air traps heat inside the house, making the house much warmer than it should be. Waterproofing makes a roof much more energy efficient, lowering cooling costs for your home.

Reduce Maintenance Costs

When you waterproof your home, you prevent problems from occurring such as leakage, property damages, and damages to structural integrity, all of which requires money to repair. Imagine if you had spent just a fraction of that money on waterproofing instead, and not only avoided the extra costs, but also the hassle and trouble that you face when such problems occur!