7 THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW BEFORE A NEW ROOF INSTALLATION
A roof takes a beating from the elements and will eventually have to be replaced. Here's what you should know if you're ready for a new roof installation.
The last thing any homeowner wants to think about is whether or not their roof needs replacing. It's arguably the most expensive part of your home.
But when your roof is leaking, there's not much of a choice, now is there? However, if you're going to shell out some major money, you should get the most bang for your buck.
In order to make the most out of your hard earned money, you need to know a few things first. Here are seven things you need to know before a roof installation.
1. Not Everyone is a Pro at Roof Installation
It's so important to do some searching before settling on one contractor to do the job. Not all contractors are alike. Since an installation usually happens once every twenty to thirty years, it's not like they rely on repeat business.
So ask around before you hire anyone. Ask friends, neighbors, and go online to do some research. Check out the following professional roofing manufacturing sites to help you make the right choice.
Also, if they have a website or are on social media, check to see if anyone has left any reviews. Sites like Angie's List will also include reviews and/or background information to make sure they are legitimate.
2. There Are Ways to Save Money
There are really two ways to save money. One is to hire the right contractor and ask to make sure that that they have a team of installation professionals rather than low-wage workers for hire. You'll save money by having your installation done right the first time.
The other way to save on money is by checking the number of layers you currently have on your roof. You can have up to two layers of shingles on your roof. If you currently only have one layer of shingles on your roof, you can place one layer on top of an already existing layer to save money on installation costs.
However, there are a few things to know before you go that route like you can only layer it once. Not all materials will adhere well to each other and if high winds are an issue where you live, layering won't work.
Lastly, if you choose not to remove the last layer of shingles, you may not be aware of other damage your roof has. A professional roof inspection may help you figure out what you have on your roof before you make any decisions.
3. Know What Materials are Being Used
With time comes new inventions and possibilities, even in the roofing industry. So before you have your roof installation done, check to see which materials will work and look best for your needs.
Here are a few materials you can choose from:
4. Check Your Budget
A roof installation isn't cheap. So know what your budget is before you get started on the project. What types of roofing materials you use will make a difference.
Have the contractors go through the process with you and have them share with you what materials they are using. However, while it's important to stay within your budget, it's not worth it to have a cheap roof installed that starts leaking after a few years.
So work with the contractors from start to finish and keep the lines of communication going throughout the whole project. The more you understand, the better choices you'll make. After all, who wants a great looking roof if you're too poor to live underneath it?
5. Realize a Roof Installation is Loud
Yes, workers on your roof all day is going to be loud. And messy. There's not much you can do about it until the project is finished.
So if you, a family member or a pet are sensitive to loud noises, you may need to find another place for them until the work is finished. Also, let your neighbors know what's going on before rather than during the project. They'll appreciate it.
Lastly, not only will it be noisy, it also will be messy and a lot of space will be taken up with materials. Make sure your car doesn't get trapped in and that the mess is contained within your own yard.
6. Understand and Keep Copies of Your Paperwork
Paperwork is vitally important when doing a roof installation. You need to not only keep copies of everything, you need to understand what they say. Here's what you need copies of:
Contract Never hire a contractor without having a contract with them first. You do not want to give them a down payment and then have them walk away. Within the contract, it should specify exactly what materials are being used, where the work is being performed, the cost, and how long it will take.
WarrantyIt would be a shame to have all that work done and then realize you never got a warranty for it. Sometimes things happen, which is why a warranty is necessary. Just make sure you understand what the warranty covers.
PermitsWithout proper permits, your warranty could be null and void. And of course, you could incur fines from the city. Make sure the proper permits are put in place before the work starts and that you have copies of all of them.
InsuranceThe roof contractor's insurance company should provide insurance for them that provides compensation and liability should anything bad happen. Make sure they are fully insured before they start the work.
7. Make Sure They Leave Your Home and Yard Spotless
A roof installation is messy. About 10,000 nails will be taken out of your roof and they have to fall somewhere. Which means you'll have lots of nails in your yard.
While they are working, be careful. Before they leave, make sure they have cleaned up and removed the mess they made, including the nails. A good contractor should have a giant magnet that is specifically made to gather up all the nails and fasteners.
A new roof can improve the look and feel of your home for decades to come. All you have to do is choose the right team to handle it for you. We only use the best materials and have a sterling reputation. Get your free roof installation quote today.
The last thing any homeowner wants to think about is whether or not their roof needs replacing. It's arguably the most expensive part of your home.
But when your roof is leaking, there's not much of a choice, now is there? However, if you're going to shell out some major money, you should get the most bang for your buck.
In order to make the most out of your hard earned money, you need to know a few things first. Here are seven things you need to know before a roof installation.
1. Not Everyone is a Pro at Roof Installation
It's so important to do some searching before settling on one contractor to do the job. Not all contractors are alike. Since an installation usually happens once every twenty to thirty years, it's not like they rely on repeat business.
So ask around before you hire anyone. Ask friends, neighbors, and go online to do some research. Check out the following professional roofing manufacturing sites to help you make the right choice.
Also, if they have a website or are on social media, check to see if anyone has left any reviews. Sites like Angie's List will also include reviews and/or background information to make sure they are legitimate.
2. There Are Ways to Save Money
There are really two ways to save money. One is to hire the right contractor and ask to make sure that that they have a team of installation professionals rather than low-wage workers for hire. You'll save money by having your installation done right the first time.
The other way to save on money is by checking the number of layers you currently have on your roof. You can have up to two layers of shingles on your roof. If you currently only have one layer of shingles on your roof, you can place one layer on top of an already existing layer to save money on installation costs.
However, there are a few things to know before you go that route like you can only layer it once. Not all materials will adhere well to each other and if high winds are an issue where you live, layering won't work.
Lastly, if you choose not to remove the last layer of shingles, you may not be aware of other damage your roof has. A professional roof inspection may help you figure out what you have on your roof before you make any decisions.
3. Know What Materials are Being Used
With time comes new inventions and possibilities, even in the roofing industry. So before you have your roof installation done, check to see which materials will work and look best for your needs.
Here are a few materials you can choose from:
- Asphalt
- Slate
- Shakes
- Metal
4. Check Your Budget
A roof installation isn't cheap. So know what your budget is before you get started on the project. What types of roofing materials you use will make a difference.
Have the contractors go through the process with you and have them share with you what materials they are using. However, while it's important to stay within your budget, it's not worth it to have a cheap roof installed that starts leaking after a few years.
So work with the contractors from start to finish and keep the lines of communication going throughout the whole project. The more you understand, the better choices you'll make. After all, who wants a great looking roof if you're too poor to live underneath it?
5. Realize a Roof Installation is Loud
Yes, workers on your roof all day is going to be loud. And messy. There's not much you can do about it until the project is finished.
So if you, a family member or a pet are sensitive to loud noises, you may need to find another place for them until the work is finished. Also, let your neighbors know what's going on before rather than during the project. They'll appreciate it.
Lastly, not only will it be noisy, it also will be messy and a lot of space will be taken up with materials. Make sure your car doesn't get trapped in and that the mess is contained within your own yard.
6. Understand and Keep Copies of Your Paperwork
Paperwork is vitally important when doing a roof installation. You need to not only keep copies of everything, you need to understand what they say. Here's what you need copies of:
Contract Never hire a contractor without having a contract with them first. You do not want to give them a down payment and then have them walk away. Within the contract, it should specify exactly what materials are being used, where the work is being performed, the cost, and how long it will take.
WarrantyIt would be a shame to have all that work done and then realize you never got a warranty for it. Sometimes things happen, which is why a warranty is necessary. Just make sure you understand what the warranty covers.
PermitsWithout proper permits, your warranty could be null and void. And of course, you could incur fines from the city. Make sure the proper permits are put in place before the work starts and that you have copies of all of them.
InsuranceThe roof contractor's insurance company should provide insurance for them that provides compensation and liability should anything bad happen. Make sure they are fully insured before they start the work.
7. Make Sure They Leave Your Home and Yard Spotless
A roof installation is messy. About 10,000 nails will be taken out of your roof and they have to fall somewhere. Which means you'll have lots of nails in your yard.
While they are working, be careful. Before they leave, make sure they have cleaned up and removed the mess they made, including the nails. A good contractor should have a giant magnet that is specifically made to gather up all the nails and fasteners.
A new roof can improve the look and feel of your home for decades to come. All you have to do is choose the right team to handle it for you. We only use the best materials and have a sterling reputation. Get your free roof installation quote today.
How to Prepare Your Home for a Roof Replacement
Is it your first time having your roof replaced? If so, this handy guide should help you get your home ready for a roof replacement.
Whether you like it or not, you'll need a roof replacement at some point. It's not just about wear and tear, sometimes other problems arise.
There are several reasons for replacing your roof:
- to improve its look
- to get rid of moss infestation
- to remove soft spots and rot
- to adhere to new building standards
- to enhance structural stability
For example, triple layering tiles will cost more. They can cause weight issues that affect the roof's frame structure and stability. You'll also consider if putting new shingles over the old ones is the right idea.
Getting a roof replacement needs precision, quality materials, and top-notch equipment. You must find the right people for the job. Read on to learn how.
Hiring a Roof Replacement Expert
The most important thing you should know about roof replacement is that not every contractor is a pro. Some of them do shoddy work, while others are scam artists. They overcharge you and skimp on the construction.
Your project can also suffer from work dangers. For a while, residential builders were at risk for injuries and falls due to lax building requirements. Thankfully, the U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) resolved the issue early this year.
Here are the steps to take when hiring a roofing contractor:
- research and read reviews of potential contractors
- find out about their years of experience
- check qualifications and licensing
- get and understand quote estimates
- have a written and signed contract
- use referrals where possible
Following these steps will save you in the long run. You'll know if the work meets the right standards set in the regulations and contract.
Some homeowners stick around during the work. Choose the safe option and move yourself and your family to a better location. If you have to be around, ensure you keep a safe distance from the site.
Make sure the hired contractors clean up the job site to prevent future injuries.
Nails will fall to the ground during shingle removal. Other than tire punctures, there is a greater risk of human injury. Keep your kids out of the yard until you are sure the contractors have cleared all the nails and roof debris.
Exposure to roof tar vapors can cause headaches, nausea, asthmatic attacks, and other respiratory problems. Inconclusive studies also show there is a risk of getting various cancers and leukemia.
With that said, it's time to get your home ready for a roof replacement. Below is a quick guide for you.
Preparing Your Home for a Roof Replacement
The roof replacement process will go well if you anticipate the coming changes.
Here is what you'll need to do:
Use Dust Protection
Guard against the dust from construction jobs that coat the furniture, utensils, clothes, and bedding. Buy waterproof dustsheets and cover everything. Decide whether to go for disposable sheets or the recyclable kind.
Check whether you need light or sturdy dustsheets. And remember to stock up on cloths or rags for wiping them.
Remove Loose Hanging Stuff
Take down paintings, picture frames, hanging mirrors, and collectible kitchen utensils. Anything that isn't nailed down should be moved to a safe spot. If you have a chandelier, you should take it down as well.
Strong vibrations from roofing equipment may jolt everything out of place. As such, you'll end up cleaning broken utensils and glass. This is also costly because collectibles are usually very expensive.
Clear Your Attic
If you have an attic, move all your valuables elsewhere. Cover everything else since this place will get a lot of roof debris and dust.
Attics pose a threat to your health. Other than dust mites that affect breathing, poorly arranged items can cause physical injuries. Thus, be careful when moving items to another room.
Disconnect Electrical Appliances and Fixtures
Switch off any exposed appliances or light fixtures that may come into contact with water from a leaking roof. The roof replacement may expose the upper floors to moisture. This has the potential of causing a fire.
Fastening the shingles may puncture an electrical wire's insulation and cause a fire. This occurs when the wires are coursing near the roof. For example, in a vaulted ceiling, you have to remove the roof to expose the wires.
Prepare the Area Around Your Home
Roofing contractors need a clear area to put their materials, equipment, and dumpster. Set aside a place for them where they can access the roof without trouble.
There will be a lot of falling debris once the construction begins. Therefore, move the outside furniture from the area. Move your vehicles, grills, flower pots, and other items to a safer spot as well.
Remove any doghouses, lawn ornaments, and generators. Cover the swimming pool if you have one. Remember to cut the grass to a shorter length than usual. This will help during the cleaning process and in spotting fallen nails.
If it's not dangerous, remove your satellite dish and TV antenna. Or hire a professional to do it for you. Remove any other items on the roof such as solar panels and decorations.
Use tarp covers to protect your flowerbeds. Find a way to cover any landscaping work done around your home.
Get an Instant Free Quote
Changing your roof will take up your time, effort, and money. Failing to plan beforehand will double the cost of these three things. You have to be proactive to get the work done correctly the first time.
Alert your neighbors about the construction work. They may need to move their belongings to avoid falling debris. They also need to be ready for the noise coming from your home.
Don't forget, the contractor has to stop for inspection after every 25% of work done. This is to guarantee the quality of the work. It helps the roofing crew remain safe throughout the construction.
If you follow this guide, your project will go smoothly. Nevertheless, there is still more to learn about roof replacement. Contact us and get a free instant quote.
6 Signs Your Roof Needs Hail Damage Repair6 Signs Your Roof Needs Hail Damage Repair
When ice starts shooting from the heavens, you know your roof is likely going to be in rough shape. Here are some signs your roof needs hail damage repair.
The immediate effect of a hail storm can be pretty jarring. Ice falling from the sky will rip through umbrellas and awnings, dent up your car and send your pets into a frenzy. The aftermath of the storm leads to the need for hail damage repair.
It might not be immediately apparent that the roof of your house has been impacted. The slow creeping damage of hail storms in places that receive multiple storms a year can add up to big bills. It's important for homeowners to be aware of the damage they've incurred and taken measures as soon as possible.
If you're unsure whether or not you should take a look at your roof, below are six signs that your roof could use some hail damage repair.
1. It Hasn't Been Inspected After Multiple Storms
If you live in parts of the South or the Southwest, hail storms can be a monthly occurrence. In some areas, chronic roof damaging weather can cause insurance premiums to skyrocket.
If your home has survived a number of bad storms with baseball-sized hail, you should get it inspected. If you've had severe vehicle damage from hail storms, you may have some roof issues that will need to be addressed sooner or later.
Ask around your neighborhood. If you're seeing your neighbors having their roofs inspected after a storm, it may be time to consider. The long-term damage of water and mold to the interior of your home can cost a lot more than small repairs or patches your roof needs today.
2. Your Roof Is Made from Brittle Materials
Certain materials are more impervious to hail damage than more brittle material. Denser materials can be cracked instantly by a hail storm. Materials like concrete, clay or wood shake need to be inspected if used on your roof. If you suspect that there might be damage, get it repaired as soon as possible.
Unfortunately, insurers may register some of these damages as "cosmetic." These types of repairs are not covered by most standard home insurance plans. However, leaving this "cosmetic" damage in disrepair can lead to cracking, splitting, or other functional issues in the future.
3. Damage Visible Around the Perimeter of the Home
Check around the perimeter of your home. Look for damages to an exterior AC unit. Hail intense enough to dent or damage large appliances may require hail damage repair to your roof.
Fallen shingles building up on your lawn or in your driveway are a fairly good sign that your roof is taking on serious damage.
Tree branches or other large debris, while it may not have landed on your roof, may have hit your roof on the way down. Take fallen debris on your lawn seriously.
4. Building Damage Visible from the Ground Floor
Look around the exterior of your home. Hail storms can cause damage to siding, allowing water and infestation into the walls. Siding damage may be covered by some insurance plans.
Look for dented gutters, bent downspouts or damaged gutter screens. Again, hail that is strong enough to damage metal fixtures can easily damage asphalt shingles. Look for other exposed metal surfaces outside your home.
5. Cosmetic Damage Visible on the Roof
If you can safely inspect your roof, this is the surest way to get an idea for what kind of damage your roof has incurred. If your roof has a chimney, vents or skylights, look to see if their condition has changed. A cracked skylight is the type of hail damage repair that insurance companies will prioritize. Other less functional damage will take time.
Save any repair receipts for later reimbursement.
Hail damage to shingles will appear in the form of missing surface granules. It can be harder to identify if hail storms are mild. Taking photos and circling the damage in chalk will help you make an insurance claim.
Exposed asphalt layers under shingles can crack and dry out under the sun. This could lead to later issues if moisture creeps into the newly formed cracks.
6. Multiple Leaks Inside Your Home
Be on the lookout for leaks in your sealing or moisture issues on your walls. The results of a leaking roof can appear quickly or, worse, over a long period of time. This can result in mold and rot to the interior of your walls or wood frame.
Leaks inside your home are the worst case scenario for hail damage repair. These are the top priority issue to look for following a hail storm. If you experience a leaking roof, call an expert immediately. Water damage can lead to problems with your electrical and plumbing systems.
Most contractors will help you stay within your budget while they build a roof that won't need another repair in a couple of years. In severe conditions, like in areas of Texas or Colorado, roof repairs can be necessary on an annual basis. If you live in a more mild region, you should still remain cautious of any severe weather conditions.
Don't Put Off Hail Damage Repair
When ice starts shooting from the heavens, you know your roof is likely going to be in rough shape. Here are some signs your roof needs hail damage repair.
The immediate effect of a hail storm can be pretty jarring. Ice falling from the sky will rip through umbrellas and awnings, dent up your car and send your pets into a frenzy. The aftermath of the storm leads to the need for hail damage repair.
It might not be immediately apparent that the roof of your house has been impacted. The slow creeping damage of hail storms in places that receive multiple storms a year can add up to big bills. It's important for homeowners to be aware of the damage they've incurred and taken measures as soon as possible.
If you're unsure whether or not you should take a look at your roof, below are six signs that your roof could use some hail damage repair.
1. It Hasn't Been Inspected After Multiple Storms
If you live in parts of the South or the Southwest, hail storms can be a monthly occurrence. In some areas, chronic roof damaging weather can cause insurance premiums to skyrocket.
If your home has survived a number of bad storms with baseball-sized hail, you should get it inspected. If you've had severe vehicle damage from hail storms, you may have some roof issues that will need to be addressed sooner or later.
Ask around your neighborhood. If you're seeing your neighbors having their roofs inspected after a storm, it may be time to consider. The long-term damage of water and mold to the interior of your home can cost a lot more than small repairs or patches your roof needs today.
2. Your Roof Is Made from Brittle Materials
Certain materials are more impervious to hail damage than more brittle material. Denser materials can be cracked instantly by a hail storm. Materials like concrete, clay or wood shake need to be inspected if used on your roof. If you suspect that there might be damage, get it repaired as soon as possible.
Unfortunately, insurers may register some of these damages as "cosmetic." These types of repairs are not covered by most standard home insurance plans. However, leaving this "cosmetic" damage in disrepair can lead to cracking, splitting, or other functional issues in the future.
3. Damage Visible Around the Perimeter of the Home
Check around the perimeter of your home. Look for damages to an exterior AC unit. Hail intense enough to dent or damage large appliances may require hail damage repair to your roof.
Fallen shingles building up on your lawn or in your driveway are a fairly good sign that your roof is taking on serious damage.
Tree branches or other large debris, while it may not have landed on your roof, may have hit your roof on the way down. Take fallen debris on your lawn seriously.
4. Building Damage Visible from the Ground Floor
Look around the exterior of your home. Hail storms can cause damage to siding, allowing water and infestation into the walls. Siding damage may be covered by some insurance plans.
Look for dented gutters, bent downspouts or damaged gutter screens. Again, hail that is strong enough to damage metal fixtures can easily damage asphalt shingles. Look for other exposed metal surfaces outside your home.
5. Cosmetic Damage Visible on the Roof
If you can safely inspect your roof, this is the surest way to get an idea for what kind of damage your roof has incurred. If your roof has a chimney, vents or skylights, look to see if their condition has changed. A cracked skylight is the type of hail damage repair that insurance companies will prioritize. Other less functional damage will take time.
Save any repair receipts for later reimbursement.
Hail damage to shingles will appear in the form of missing surface granules. It can be harder to identify if hail storms are mild. Taking photos and circling the damage in chalk will help you make an insurance claim.
Exposed asphalt layers under shingles can crack and dry out under the sun. This could lead to later issues if moisture creeps into the newly formed cracks.
6. Multiple Leaks Inside Your Home
Be on the lookout for leaks in your sealing or moisture issues on your walls. The results of a leaking roof can appear quickly or, worse, over a long period of time. This can result in mold and rot to the interior of your walls or wood frame.
Leaks inside your home are the worst case scenario for hail damage repair. These are the top priority issue to look for following a hail storm. If you experience a leaking roof, call an expert immediately. Water damage can lead to problems with your electrical and plumbing systems.
Most contractors will help you stay within your budget while they build a roof that won't need another repair in a couple of years. In severe conditions, like in areas of Texas or Colorado, roof repairs can be necessary on an annual basis. If you live in a more mild region, you should still remain cautious of any severe weather conditions.
Don't Put Off Hail Damage Repair
8 Signs Your Commercial Roof is in Need of Repair
8 Signs Your Commercial Roof is in Need of RepairBuilding maintenance isn't something you should ever forget about. If you see any of these signs, your commercial roof may be in need of repair.
Wondering if your shingled roof is in need of repair services? Knowing what to look for can help fix a problem before it turns into a major issue.
A defective roof is more of a liability than an asset. It not only poses a health risk to you and your family but also depreciates your home's value.
It's hard to tell when your commercial roof needs servicing because roof inspection is not something you do on a daily basis. However, failure to repair or replace your roof on time can cause bigger problems.
What factors determine whether a roof repair will fix the problem or if an entire roof replacement is the way to go?
Here are the eight major warning signs that your commercial roof is in need of repair.
1. Falling Mortar
In roofing, mortars are mostly used for bedding roof verges (outer edges of pitched roofs) and roof junctions such as ridges. Typically, tiles on the verge are often mortared to prevent water and wind from damaging the tiles.
These verges and ridges are vulnerable to breaking due to frost damage and building movements. The mortar can also be separated from the roof verges and blown away by strong winds.
Falling mortar is a common problem for commercial roofs. Evidence of falling mortar is a clear sign that your roof is aging and in need of repair.
2. Roof Age
How old is your existing tiled or shingled roof?
Experts agree that most roofs are meant to last between 20 and 25 years. At times, the signs of degeneration may appear early due to extreme weather conditions.
The lifespan of a roof depends on many factors including whether it's made up of a single layer of shingles or several layers.
If your commercial roof is made up of several layers of shingles and is approaching its 20th birthday, consider having it replaced.
3. Leaky Roof
A leaky roof is an obvious sign that your roof needs servicing.
Typical signs of a leaky roof include round stains on your ceiling, water trickling down the walls, and flat surfaces that later form "bubbles." Evidence of mold on the ceiling inside the house is an indication of a leak in the attic.
Common causes of a leaky roof are cracked tiles, missing shingles, and nail holes that were not sealed properly when antennas were taken down. Also, if flashing is poorly done, leaks can occur on the seals.
If you find any of these signs, it's time to not only have the entry points sealed but the entire roof checked for defects. Rather than fixing one leak at a time, you might want to consider having the entire roof replaced.
4. Missing Shingles
Missing shingles are clear signs that your roof is in bad shape, and in need of immediate repair. Shingles don't just fall off the roof. They can be detached by flying debris, falling tree twigs, and strong winds.
While missing shingles may seem like a small problem that only has a bearing on your home's aesthetic value, they can cause serious problems that extend beyond losing a small section of your roof coverings.
Missing shingles provide a way for water to leak into your house. Over time, even small leaks can create life-threatening problems due to the growth of mold, not to forget the rotting wood that can make your roof weak and vulnerable.
Besides, if one shingle falls off, the others around it become less stable, which means they are more likely to be blown away next.
5. Damaged Flashing
Flashing refers to thin pieces of impervious material. It is usually galvanized steel or aluminum that's used over joints in roofs to prevent water seepage.
Anything that rises through or attaches to the roof will have a flashing. This includes vents, roof valleys, skylight dormer window, and the chimney.
The flashing may be damaged when the caulking material dries out, or the material deteriorates as a result of oxidation or extreme weather.
Expansion and contraction also make the fasteners loose, causing the bottom-flashing flange to lift and separate. This allows water to seep through and can cause extensive damage to your walls and ceilings.
If you notice damaged or loose flashing on your commercial roof, you may need to have your roof repaired by a professional.
6. Buckling Shingles
Shingles that are buckling or curled are another sign that you may need a new roof. Bucked shingles are highly susceptible to water and wind damages and can easily break or be torn off.
If your shingles are worn out due to age, they are likely to start losing granules.
Buckling shingles pose the same threat as missing shingles. They create an entry point for moisture and air which in turn cause damages to the inner components of your roof.
If you notice buckling shingles, contact a professional to check on your roof and dictate whether repair can fix the problem, or an entire roof replacement is necessary.
7. Loose Tiles
When doing your yearly roof check, look for any loose tiles. By simply stepping on the tiles, you can quickly identify those that are a little wobbly and purpose to have them repaired.
You should also look for detached tiles because they are as dangerous as missing tiles. Missing tiles are a clear indication that your commercial roof is in need of repair.
If only a few tiles are loose or missing, you can just schedule a roof repair. However, if too many tiles are missing or detached, it's a sign that your roof is weak and you may need a new roof.
8. Light Penetration
A regular inspection of the attic can help you detect weak points in your roof. By just turning off the lights in the upper room, you'll be able to tell whether light is coming in through the roof.
If you notice rays of light coming in through the roof, that's a sign that your roof needs to be attended to. Even a few small holes in the roof can call for a roof replacement.
Keep in mind that repairing the holes is only a temporary fix and may pose a bigger threat in the future.
Looking for More Signs Your Commercial Roof is in Need of Repair?Over time, commercial roofs tend to weaken due to natural wear and tear and exposure to extreme weather conditions.
To mitigate against damages caused by a defective roof, make a habit of checking your roof for any of these signs regularly.
If you think you need to replace the entire roof, research and read reviews of reputable contractors. Contact us today for a free roof inspection to determine if your roof is in good condition, or needs repair or replacement services.
8 Signs Your Commercial Roof is in Need of RepairBuilding maintenance isn't something you should ever forget about. If you see any of these signs, your commercial roof may be in need of repair.
Wondering if your shingled roof is in need of repair services? Knowing what to look for can help fix a problem before it turns into a major issue.
A defective roof is more of a liability than an asset. It not only poses a health risk to you and your family but also depreciates your home's value.
It's hard to tell when your commercial roof needs servicing because roof inspection is not something you do on a daily basis. However, failure to repair or replace your roof on time can cause bigger problems.
What factors determine whether a roof repair will fix the problem or if an entire roof replacement is the way to go?
Here are the eight major warning signs that your commercial roof is in need of repair.
1. Falling Mortar
In roofing, mortars are mostly used for bedding roof verges (outer edges of pitched roofs) and roof junctions such as ridges. Typically, tiles on the verge are often mortared to prevent water and wind from damaging the tiles.
These verges and ridges are vulnerable to breaking due to frost damage and building movements. The mortar can also be separated from the roof verges and blown away by strong winds.
Falling mortar is a common problem for commercial roofs. Evidence of falling mortar is a clear sign that your roof is aging and in need of repair.
2. Roof Age
How old is your existing tiled or shingled roof?
Experts agree that most roofs are meant to last between 20 and 25 years. At times, the signs of degeneration may appear early due to extreme weather conditions.
The lifespan of a roof depends on many factors including whether it's made up of a single layer of shingles or several layers.
If your commercial roof is made up of several layers of shingles and is approaching its 20th birthday, consider having it replaced.
3. Leaky Roof
A leaky roof is an obvious sign that your roof needs servicing.
Typical signs of a leaky roof include round stains on your ceiling, water trickling down the walls, and flat surfaces that later form "bubbles." Evidence of mold on the ceiling inside the house is an indication of a leak in the attic.
Common causes of a leaky roof are cracked tiles, missing shingles, and nail holes that were not sealed properly when antennas were taken down. Also, if flashing is poorly done, leaks can occur on the seals.
If you find any of these signs, it's time to not only have the entry points sealed but the entire roof checked for defects. Rather than fixing one leak at a time, you might want to consider having the entire roof replaced.
4. Missing Shingles
Missing shingles are clear signs that your roof is in bad shape, and in need of immediate repair. Shingles don't just fall off the roof. They can be detached by flying debris, falling tree twigs, and strong winds.
While missing shingles may seem like a small problem that only has a bearing on your home's aesthetic value, they can cause serious problems that extend beyond losing a small section of your roof coverings.
Missing shingles provide a way for water to leak into your house. Over time, even small leaks can create life-threatening problems due to the growth of mold, not to forget the rotting wood that can make your roof weak and vulnerable.
Besides, if one shingle falls off, the others around it become less stable, which means they are more likely to be blown away next.
5. Damaged Flashing
Flashing refers to thin pieces of impervious material. It is usually galvanized steel or aluminum that's used over joints in roofs to prevent water seepage.
Anything that rises through or attaches to the roof will have a flashing. This includes vents, roof valleys, skylight dormer window, and the chimney.
The flashing may be damaged when the caulking material dries out, or the material deteriorates as a result of oxidation or extreme weather.
Expansion and contraction also make the fasteners loose, causing the bottom-flashing flange to lift and separate. This allows water to seep through and can cause extensive damage to your walls and ceilings.
If you notice damaged or loose flashing on your commercial roof, you may need to have your roof repaired by a professional.
6. Buckling Shingles
Shingles that are buckling or curled are another sign that you may need a new roof. Bucked shingles are highly susceptible to water and wind damages and can easily break or be torn off.
If your shingles are worn out due to age, they are likely to start losing granules.
Buckling shingles pose the same threat as missing shingles. They create an entry point for moisture and air which in turn cause damages to the inner components of your roof.
If you notice buckling shingles, contact a professional to check on your roof and dictate whether repair can fix the problem, or an entire roof replacement is necessary.
7. Loose Tiles
When doing your yearly roof check, look for any loose tiles. By simply stepping on the tiles, you can quickly identify those that are a little wobbly and purpose to have them repaired.
You should also look for detached tiles because they are as dangerous as missing tiles. Missing tiles are a clear indication that your commercial roof is in need of repair.
If only a few tiles are loose or missing, you can just schedule a roof repair. However, if too many tiles are missing or detached, it's a sign that your roof is weak and you may need a new roof.
8. Light Penetration
A regular inspection of the attic can help you detect weak points in your roof. By just turning off the lights in the upper room, you'll be able to tell whether light is coming in through the roof.
If you notice rays of light coming in through the roof, that's a sign that your roof needs to be attended to. Even a few small holes in the roof can call for a roof replacement.
Keep in mind that repairing the holes is only a temporary fix and may pose a bigger threat in the future.
Looking for More Signs Your Commercial Roof is in Need of Repair?Over time, commercial roofs tend to weaken due to natural wear and tear and exposure to extreme weather conditions.
To mitigate against damages caused by a defective roof, make a habit of checking your roof for any of these signs regularly.
If you think you need to replace the entire roof, research and read reviews of reputable contractors. Contact us today for a free roof inspection to determine if your roof is in good condition, or needs repair or replacement services.