Category Archives: Roofing General

Slope Roofs vs. Flat Roofs for Commercial Buildings

Commercial buildings need to last a very long time. Because of this, they need to have roofs that can stand the test of time. One thing that makes the process of installing and maintaining the perfect roof for any given commercial building is that there are options to choose from. When it comes to a commercial building, there are really only two options to choose from: A roof that has a slope or a roof that is flat. The real decision-making process begins when measuring the benefits and drawbacks between the two. Both types of roofs will be analyzed for this purpose and by the end, you will be much more confident in your choice to have either a slope roof or a flat roof installed for your commercial building.

Flat Roofs

Although no roof is completely flat as there needs to be some sort of semblance of pitch in any kind of roof no matter what the building may look like, there do exist roofs that have a pitch that is so even that it could certainly pass for a flat roof. Any very large commercial building, like a warehouse or a shopping center, could benefit greatly from a flat roof.

There are four reasons why a flat roof is very beneficial to a large building. Of these four, the most significant benefit is that they last a very, very long time, especially if the shingles are composed of metal. If a sloped roof with metal shingles can last upwards of 40 years, a flat one with metal roofing can last even longer, and they often do. Because flat roofs have no real slope, the chances of the roof coming off during any given major storm are much, much lower than a roof that has a steep slope.

Because of their surface, flat roofs very rarely require maintenance. This is especially true if the roof is equipped with proper drainage systems and devices. Once it is constructed and installed, it is likely that it won’t need any updates or repairs for several years. This makes a flat roof a very good long term investment and is ideal for any owner of a commercial building who is planning on using that commercial building for a very long time.

If a commercial roof repair crew does need to get on top of a flat roof to do some repairs, it is much easier for them to do this on a flat roof rather than a sloped one as well. One reason why sloped roofs usually stay untouched is because walking on them is very, very dangerous. This is not the case with a flat roof.

Flat roofs are not perfect, however, and do contain some drawbacks. First, flat roofs are not appealing at all. They are not appealing because they are simply not visible. There is no way to “see” a flat roof. Second, if one is to have a flat roof installed, they must have some kind of drainage system for the building installed. If one is not installed, rain will gather on top of the roof and cause leaks. The final drawback a flat roof has is that they cost much more money upfront than any sloped roof.

Slope Roofs

A roof with a slope is more common for residential buildings, but commercial buildings can also benefit somewhat from slope roofs. Different than a flat roof, a slope roof has a lower pitch. Most roofs with a slope will use asphalt shingles, especially if they are residential buildings. For commercial buildings, there is a better solution, which will be mentioned later.

Perhaps the best thing about a sloped roof for a commercial building is that it will make the building visible. This is useful if the building would be difficult to find among other buildings if it had a flat roof. It is much easier to notice a slope roof building among dozens of flat roof buildings. If the commercial building does not take up a lot of area, this is even better as the risk of having a sloped roof is not as high.

Installing a sloped roof costs much less than a flat roof. It costs less because of a few reasons. First, they do not take as long to install. Flat roofs can take days to install. A sloped roof, especially with clay or asphalt shingles can take hours. Second, there is no drainage system necessary to be installed onto a sloped roof. Simply attach a few gutters and drainage pipes, keep them maintained regularly, and thousands of dollars are now saved on a drainage system.

Sloped roofs can protect a building almost as efficiently as any flat roof by installing metal shingles. Some say that metal is by far the most durable. It can hold up well during storms and are a bit more eco-friendly than any other roof material. However, they can cost a bit to install. But if you are considering installing a flat roof for a commercial building, it would behoove you to install metal shingles.

Sloped roofs present a high risk to any building. This goes double for a commercial building, as residential buildings can be insured for a lot less money than a commercial one. They require a good amount of regular maintenance because of the debris that can bounce off of it. And when people climb up the roof to make repairs, there is a risk to them. As mentioned previously, the gutters and drain pipes around a slope roof act as its drainage system. This is another thing that must be cleaned out regularly.

Choosing a roof for a commercial building involves many more decisions other than “what kind of roof do I want.” It is important to know that between flat and sloped roofs, there are many advantages and drawbacks to each. Flat roofs are built specifically for the long term. When a flat roof is installed, it is designed to last a very long time without much regular maintenance. Any commercial building that covers a lot of area and that stands alone would benefit greatly from a flat roof.

Sloped roofs need to be maintained regularly. More risks are taken when these are installed. They do not last long unless extra time and money is spent on getting metal shingle materials installed along with the sloped roofs. They will make a commercial building stand out, however, as most commercial buildings have flat roofs installed.

Epoxy Roof Coatings: What You Need to Know (Cost, Leaks)

The most important concern that anyone getting a roof installed should have, whether the building is commercial or residential, is protecting the roof from leaks. Fixing a leak can be one of the most costly ventures one could possibly take when repairing a roof. Whether you hire a roofing company to fix the leak or take the time, money, and effort to fix it yourself, it can be agreed that the best way to address roof leaks is by making sure that they never happen.

Another thing that anyone who has a long term investment in a roof should be aware of is protecting the roof from impact. In fact, it is because of debris that bounces off of an unprotected roof that causes leaks in the first place. Protecting your roof is priority one, and using the right coatings to protect your roof will provide peace of mind that will last. Epoxy roof coatings were invented for this very reason, to make sure that any given roof is protected from anything that could permanently damage it.

What is Epoxy?

Before any discussion about epoxy roof coatings can even begin, it is imperative to understand what epoxy the substance actually is. The reason why this needs to be known is because when using epoxy as a roof coating, it is possible to apply too little of it to where the roof is not as protected as it needs to be, and it is also possible to apply too much of it onto a roof to where it could permanently damage the roof.

Epoxy is a resin that almost immediately sticks onto any surface and makes the surface much harder. It is similar to cement but it does not bind anything permanently like cement does. Think of epoxy as a cross between plaster and cement. It is designed to hold things in place like plaster does, but it is also designed to create very, very hard surfaces, similar to cement.

So, to summarize, when epoxy is used as a roof coating, it is effectively cementing any material on the roof. This is why knowing about it is so important. If too much epoxy is applied onto a roof coating, the roof will literally turn into cement. It will get heavier and heavier as a substance, will cause the roof to be heavier than it needs to be, and it could cause damage to the walls in the attic.

Before you Buy – Necessary Precautions

Keeping this in mind, before you shop for epoxy roof coatings for your roof, there are few things to keep in mind. Drawing on the previous observations, that too little epoxy content will not protect the roof enough and that too much can cause damage to anything related to the roof, it would be a very good thing to use this information to make an educated decision on what kind of coating you need.

Different coatings have different amounts of epoxy in them. For example, the epoxy roof coating that is sold by Armor Garage has no chemicals to mix and lasts about 15 years. This seems like a good investment, but there is more information that needs to be gathered before using it on your roof. Because no roof is created the same, it is important to check to see what kind of coating is necessary for your particular roof.

There are a few ways to do this. The first way is to save this chart to a device of your choosing to see all (or most) of the coatings that exist. This will give you a general guide of what you may want to use. Another thing to do is to check what kind of materials your roof is made of, and how old they are. This requires you to climb on your roof, which can be extremely dangerous. It is not recommended that you do this alone.

Different rooftop materials have different durabilities and this should give you an idea of how strong the coating you want to get needs to be. For example, a roof with asphalt shingles, which is the most common roofing material, probably does not require coating with a high epoxy content, especially if it has been a long time since it has been installed. A metal roof that was just installed may need coating with a bit more epoxy content.

One thing that can ensure that you are not going to permanently damage your roof with an epoxy coating is to err on the side of applying too little. While it is true that applying too little coating will not protect your roof completely, at least it will protect your roof somewhat. Applying too much coating can weigh the rest of the house down, especially if the roof is made up of asphalt shingles.

Every roof should be protected as much as possible. Even in areas where there is not a lot of bad weather or a lot of debris hitting the roof constantly, it is still a good idea to consider protecting the roof. This is possible and very easy to do with epoxy coating, and it is a much cheaper alternative to not doing anything and then fixing a roof leak yourself or hiring somebody to do it.

While it is a very good idea to protect your roof with epoxy coating, this process can backfire if too much coating is applied. One solution for this is to protect the roof somewhat by only applying a little coating, or consulting with an expert in roof maintenance. These are just small things that can protect your investment of a roof in a big way that can save a lot of time and money in the long run.

The Differences Between Commercial and Residential Roofing

The idea of roofing in and of itself appears simple: people get on top of a roof and install whatever roofing is necessary for a specific building. But there are specific roofing procedures for residential buildings and commercial buildings. From roof repairs in Frisco, TX to commercial roof installations in Long Beach, CA, there is a multitude of differences between residential and commercial roofing. In terms of materials used, labor, and design, there is a multitude of differences between residential and commercial roofing.

Materials Used in Residential Roofs Compared to Commercial Roofs

Because commercial structures often house many more things than a residential structure, they use different materials. While it is true that both of them can use one or two of the same materials, the rest of the materials used in residential roofs and commercial roofs are much different.

One thing that both of them can use is asphalt shingles. This is especially true if the commercial structure has the same kind of design as a residential structure. This is seen in many commercial structures that make up strip malls, as the designs of the structures in those places often resemble the same kind of design as certain residences. In this case, roofers are often directed to use the same kinds of materials to install the roof.

When it comes to very large warehouses, shopping centers, or any other building that covers a lot of land and houses a lot of things, the materials completely change. Instead of using asphalt shingles, or clay shingles, roofers are often instructed to use metal roofing materials. This is completely different from asphalt roofing in that the metal as a roofing material is much more durable and can withstand a lot more impact than asphalt roofing material.

The Design of Commercial Roofs Compared to Residential Roofs

People in residential areas have options when it comes to the color or the general design of the roofs that they wish to install. Additionally, because most residences are not places of business, oftentimes there is no real stake in the long term existence of the building. For purposes of the content here, long-term is at least 50 years. Because people who own commercial buildings have a lot of stake in the long term maintenance of their buildings, they typically are low sloped or flat.

Because of this, people who own commercial buildings often do not have a choice when it comes to the design of their roofs. Additionally, even the owners of strip malls are forced to follow a specific design for their building. The next time you drive by a strip mall, pay some attention to how the roofs are designed on them. You should notice that they possess the exact same design for their roofs. This is done for a reason, and that reason is that when everything is consistent in the design of a roof for a collection of buildings, everything costs less, which is very important when it comes to commercial roofing.

Labor and Costs Associated with Residential Roofing Compared to Commercial Roofing

Perhaps the biggest difference between residential roofing and commercial roofing are the numbers associated with the labor and the costs. As mentioned in the strip mall example, there are times where a residential roof and a commercial roof can look similar. On some rare occasions, they can look the exact same. However, that is where all similarities end because there is a much different procedure with residential roofing when compared against commercial roofing.

Residential roofing still utilizes a lot of resources to construct and install the roof. This is important to understand, but commercial buildings and roofing utilize even more resources and require a lot more money to install and maintain the roof.

The most obvious difference between commercial and residential buildings in the area, which of course adds to the cost of anything. But there are also a number of things that commercial buildings need to deal with when they are getting their roofs installed and repaired. But there are other a host of other things that comprise the labor and costs associated with commercial roofing that is not issued in residential roofing.

A lot of commercial roofs, especially the ones that represent bigger buildings such as warehouses and shopping centers, need other things installed that are not one ounce relevant to residences. The best example of these is piping, smokestacks, and airflow systems. These are things that definitely exist and can be options in residences in the form of chimneys and fireplaces, but they are much more common (and necessary in some cases) for commercial buildings.

Residential and commercial roofing both follow the same kind of process: install a new roof on top of a new building. The idea is the same, and there are some instances where there are similar materials being used. The major differences between commercial and residential roofing have to do with their labor and costs, the materials used, and the designs of the roofs. These three factors make up the core of the difference between commercial and residential roofs.

Again, it is possible that a commercial roof can resemble a residential roof. Passing by a strip mall will prove this. However, that is when the similarities end. When it comes to large commercial buildings such as shopping centers, warehouses, and even some major business buildings, the roofing is often completely different than a residence. This is because commercial buildings are built with the intention of having them stand for many decades. For that reason, the roofs for these buildings are often made of metal, as opposed to the asphalt that comprises the majority of residences.

Commercial roofs cost much more to install because they cover much more area. They also use certain roofing accessories that certain residential roofs typically do not use, such as smokestacks and piping.

Environmentally Friendly Roofing Options

Protecting the environment has become a rather popular trend in our culture, but it can seem difficult for homeowners to consider eco-friendly roofing options. Not many think that the components of a roof even has a negative effect on the environment. This does not make the common homeowner a bad person, it just means that these homeowners do not know that eco-friendly roofing options exist. This article will explore how exactly the common roofing practices can damage the environment, and will then explore a number of environmentally friendly options.

Roof Components That Can Negatively Affect the Environment

There are two issues that must be addressed when it comes to a roof’s effect on the environment: recyclable materials and energy efficiency. Most of the materials that make up the shingles of a roof are not recyclable. This means when they are disposed of, nothing happens. They get placed in a landfill or any other area in your neighborhood where garbage is taken.

Another issue is energy efficiency. Houses with traditional shingle tile roofs can affect the temperature of many houses, thereby requiring you, as a homeowner, to keep the house at a proper temperature. This, of course, requires energy to be used. And as it is commonly known, using energy affects all kinds of resources. This is what happens when the common asphalt shingles are used to construct a roof. Although they are common, they are not eco-friendly.

Possible Sacrifices to Consider by Getting an Environmentally Friendly Roof

Because eco-friendly roofing materials and contractors are not as common as traditional roofing materials and contractors, possible inconveniences can come up. It seems like this is how most things that involve eco-friendly materials are, and it is something that cannot be helped. So one sacrifice that you may need to make when pursuing eco-friendly roofing is that you may need to go past shopping at places like your local home depot for eco-friendly roofing materials.

The other sacrifice that must be made is that these materials may not last as long and may have some disadvantages compared to conventional materials. Some of them may need to be replaced more frequently. Some others may cost more or might be harder to find. Like with any form of home preparation, there are a great many things to consider before swapping out your conventional roof for an eco-friendly one. If you’re considering an environmentally friendly roof, make sure to get in touch with a local roofing contractor to discuss all your options!

List of Eco-friendly Roofing Options

There are many environmentally friendly roofing options available. And if you are willing to make the general sacrifices listed above, you should be able to find at least one that suits your home. The following is a list of all the options, along with a short description of some good and bad qualities of each.

1. The “White/Cool Roof”: This is an eco-friendly option that involves the least amount of sacrifice. The white roof has white shingles that can keep a house cool by bouncing the sun’s rays off of the roof, instead of darker shingles that absorb the heat. This is great because if you live in a hotter climate, it can lower energy costs by quite a bit. If the shingles are still made of asphalt, they cannot be recycled, however.

2. Recycled shingles: These are shingles that are made of recycled plastic, wood fibers, and even rubber. Because these are recycled, they can be recycled again when they need to be replaced. Many who use these to construct a roof also say that they last a bit longer than asphalt shingles. However, they likely absorb heat just as much as any other material, which can raise energy costs.

3. Metal roofing: These reflect light just like the white roof does, and are said to be much more durable than shingles. Certain metal roofing is also recyclable and there is an option to choose a brighter color, which can also save on energy. However, metal roofing can cause a lot more water and/or snow runoff to the exterior of the house. This can fill gutters rather quickly, meaning you will need to clean them quite a bit. Metal roofing is not ideal for people who live in areas where there is a lot of rain or snow.

4. Wood shingles: Wood is one of the most recyclable materials known to man. Using it to form a roof can ensure that you can recycle parts of your roof that must be removed. However, they can be dangerous as wood is also flammable. If you live in a place that is not affected a lot by acts of nature, wooden shingles are ideal. However, they do not last nearly as long as metal roofs.

5. Clay and slate: Along with white shingles, clay and slate have been a beautiful look for many roofs over the years and they are very common to come across. They last even longer than metal, and are also recyclable. Clay and slate roofing remains one of the most eco-friendly of all roofing options. However, they are extremely expensive. Also, they are heavy, meaning before you get them installed, you will need to make sure the foundation of your house is reliable as well.

 

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Best Drainage Solutions For a Flat Roof

Not many consider exactly how different the drain system operates in their home or building. Many typically have no idea how water and waste are drained out and disposed of. They do not consider nor explore any other form of drainage system other than the system that they have. And to their credit, many do not have the time to organize how each drainage system works and the good and bad points of each. Doing the research on these types of things can take a long time, and require a lot of attention, causing you to get overwhelmed. Listed below are drainage solutions for a flat roof, their good qualities, as well as their bad qualities.

Keep in mind that these are solutions for a flat roof. If the building or home you own does not have a flat roof, you can stop reading now unless you are considering owning a place with a flat roof in the future. This is because different roofs have different drainage systems and solutions. In particular, a flat roof has no slant, meaning that it cannot drain automatically. While this can also be an issue in slanted or sloped roofs, it usually is not. However, if a drainage solution below can also work for a building that with a slanted roof or can make drainage more efficient for a sloped or slanted roof, it will be mentioned.

Another thing to keep in mind is that although this is a list of drainage solutions, they are not the only drainage solutions available. Other drainage solutions likely exist outside of this, and they should certainly be explored. If you are interested in finding out the best drainage solution for your roof, get in touch with a trusted roofing contractor near you!

What is a Flat Roof Drainage System?

Before beginning the list, it is important to describe exactly what demands a flat roof drainage system. This information is important as it will describe many common characteristics of each drainage solution. All flat roof drainage systems possess a network of pipes and other plumbing, and they all should be able to flush out more than just water. Also, if a flat roof building does not have a properly maintained drainage system, the results can be pretty unsavory: water damage and leaks are still possible even if you have a very ideal drainage system.

3 Most Common Flat Roof Drainage Systems

There are three common flat roof drainage systems. They all accomplish generally the same thing; draining water and other materials out of the roof and away from it. However, they are all different in terms of size, cost, and design. Keep these in mind when choosing one.

Interior Drains

Description: An interior drain essentially turns your flat roof into a sink. A drain is installed in the roof, which is then followed by a network of pipes that transport the water and other debris outside of the building. Most interior drains are placed at the center of a flat roof. The network of piping and plumbing is inside the building, which makes interior drains the only drainage solution that is not visible outside.

Pros: The piping networks of an interior drain are protected from anything that happens outside of the building. It also “focuses” water (and other debris) to the center of the roof, reducing damage to the walls of the building.

Cons: Because of the fact that this drainage system involves opening up a separate drain line in your building, interior drains are the most expensive of the three drainage solutions. Also, even if you have a strainer to catch debris, it still must be cleaned out regularly.

Scuppers

Description: If you have ever seen a pipe at the end of a flat roof that water is shooting out of, this is a scupper. Installed on the edges of a flat roof, it shoots out water and other debris, usually onto a separate gutter or some other slanted surface which then gets funneled to reach the ground, this way water is not falling directly from the building onto anybody.

Pros: Scuppers are cheap to install and are the most efficient way of protecting a flat roof from debris. This is especially true if they are really big. The leaves and other debris that a strainer in an interior drainage system blocks (which also slows down water flow, causing leaks) are never an issue if scuppers are built, especially if the scupper is big enough to pass leaves through.

Cons: Ice and snow will render scuppers useless. This is because snow and ice can block passage to the scupper, resulting in massive leaks when the snow and ice melt. Also, ideally, scuppers should be coupled with another slope like structure, this way water and other debris do not fall directly off of the side of the building.

Gutters

Description: Gutters are in virtually every building, even in buildings with a slanted roof. They will catch any and all forms of debris. They usually flow into pipes which then transport water and debris onto the ground. Of these three solutions, gutters are far and wide the most common.

Pros: Gutters are the cheapest drainage solution money can buy. They are also easy to install, and it is possible to install them yourself with the right materials. Different than interior drains, they can handle any form of debris.

Cons: Because they can handle any form of debris, gutters must be cleaned out–constantly. If you have made the decision to install gutters and have not made the commitment to cleaning them at least once per month, then you will not have an effective drainage system. Gutters can fill with debris (like leaves, or even dead birds and pests) quickly. And when this happens, they will overflow then water will begin spilling outside the edge of the building. It will cause massive leaks as well. If you do not clean your gutters at least once a month, you should expect major leaks.

As mentioned previously, these are not the only three drainage systems in existence. There are more out there, and it is not necessary to only choose from these three. However, these three should give you a decent start in your search for an efficient drainage system for your building or home.

 

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What is Rubber Roofing?

Your roof is one of the most important parts of your home. It protects you from the elements and keeps you secure. But as a homeowner, you should know all of your options when it comes to your humble abode. Some people don’t even know rubber roofing exists, much less the benefits that it has over traditional asphalt shingles. So, let’s take a look at the good, bad, and ugly of rubber roofing so you can decide if it’s the right choice for you and your home.

Why Should I Choose Rubber?

As you can obviously see from the name, rubber roofing is made from rubber. But, its specific materials are much more complex than that. The materials are more eco-friendly than their asphalt counterparts. Some popular materials are recycled tires, sawdust, and slate dust. However, these materials make rubber roofing more expensive than asphalt roofing. Asphalt shingles are usually around $100 a square, while rubber roofing often goes for at least $300 to $400 a square. But by paying that premium first, you’re going to save yourself a lot of stress, headaches, and cash in the future.

In the long run, the benefits of rubber roofing will be clear as day. Asphalt roofing usually lasts about 15 to 20 years. Rubber roofing, on the other hand, will last about 30 to 50 years. If you’re looking for optimum longevity, you can repaint your rubber roofing every ten years or so to help extend its livelihood. Throughout the lifespan of your asphalt roofing, you’re probably going to have to put a lot of effort into the maintenance. You’ll deal with a lot more cracks and leaking than you would have with rubber roofing. Rubber roofing is incredibly durable, waterproof, and weather-resistant. Even if you do have a problem with your rubber roofing, it’s an easy fix. All you’d need is some liquid rubber or a heavy-duty rubber repair tape to get your roof in check. It’s fast and simple which gives you more time in your lovely house and less dealing with a leaky roof.

How to Install Rubber Roofing

The process of installing rubber roofing is quite easy compared to other roofing options. Installing a huge rubber roll is the most cost-effective and beneficial method to installing your rubber roofing. After acquiring the roll, you have a couple of options. You can either strip your current roof down to the plywood base, on installing it on top of your current shingles. Most manufacturers won’t honor your warranty if you apply it on top of your current roof, but it’s up to you whether you want to go one way or the other.

We suggest hiring a professional and experienced roofing contractor, but if you’re roofing your home yourself, you’re going to have an easier time handling rubber than you would with other substances like slate or cedar. Rubber is a lot lighter, so it’ll take less effort to carry around. Make sure to cut the roofing for your specific roof and keep in mind the vents, chimneys, and antennas that are in your home. Sweep your roof to get rid of all that dirt and debris that’s lying around. You surely don’t want all of yesterday’s gunk to get on tomorrow’s fresh rubber roofing. After that, apply the adhesive all throughout your roof. If you see any air bubbles forming, get rid of them. Once you’ve finished all your hard work, wait about half an hour for the adhesive to set. Then, do a final look over and make any adjustments as needed.

Just as you put the roofing on your home, it’s already saving you money. Since you can put up your roofing with only a few layers, that means that there are going to be fewer seams. Fewer seams mean fewer cracks and fewer cracks mean fewer leaks. This all means more money saved! The rubber material reflects the sun and heats away from your home, so you’re definitely going to save some money on cooling costs. On the flip-side, it also traps heat inside during the cold winter months. The material is also fire-resistant. When you look at the benefits, having rubber roofing just makes sense. But, having a rubber roof is not all sunshine and rainbows.

Cons of Rubber Roofing

When the benefits are weighed against the cons of rubber roofing, the benefits definitely do reign supreme. However, that doesn’t mean cons don’t exist and that they aren’t worth talking about. Rubber roofing isn’t as popular as asphalt roofing, so you might have a hard time finding a roofer that is skilled in rubber roofing. Not having your rubber roofing installed correctly can lead to problems down the road. Since there aren’t many professionals that know about this recent phenomenon, they might try and make you pay a pretty penny for your rubber roof. As mentioned earlier, the price is one of the biggest cons when it comes to this type of roofing. It’s a big investment in the house in all aspects when it comes to labor and materials alike.

Piping throughout the house can be a major threat to the integrity of your roofing. You are definitely going to have to keep an eye on these areas because it’s likely that there may be cracks in the future. Due to the rubber material and its unlikeliness to crack, you may have a hard time seeking out the source if you end up having a slight problem in the future. It might be like finding a needle in a haystack.

Choosing your roofing shouldn’t have to be a hard decision. Using rubber in roofing is a recent discovery that has brought an easier homeowner experience to people all over the world. The extra couple hundred dollars that you pay at price certainly pays off as time goes by. The money that you save in maintenance fees is going to pay for the roofs themselves and then some. When you’re choosing your roofing, be sure to think about the long-term and not just the right now. Your future self will thank you, along with your wallet.

 

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The Keys to Commercial Roof Maintenance

Nobody wants to talk about the quality of their roof. There are more exciting things to talk about. As a property owner, you have to take care of the roof as best as possible to ensure the happiness of the people that are inside. If you don’t take good care of the roof of your building, you’re going to deal with bigger and more stressful problems down the road. So, turn off the computer and put the pencil down for a couple of minutes. Trust me, it’s all going to still be there once you’ve taken a good, solid look at the roof.

The Power of Being Proactive

The best defense against roof problems is to always be aware of the status of your roof. If you catch a problem early, you’ll be able to take care of it as quickly as possible so you can save more money in the long run. The cost benefits are staggering and should be noted. Owners and property managers that only deal with problems when they’re obvious (reactive maintenance) pay an average of 25 cents a square every year for maintenance. On the flip side, owners and property managers that keep on top of their roof (proactive maintenance) pay an average of only 14 cents a square. That money adds up. Your business will thank you in the long run when you make a habit out of inspecting and repairing your roof.

Sometimes, you can even notice a roof problem without even having to go outside. If you notice water damage such as discoloration on the ceiling, that’s a sign that there might be a leak. Also if you notice mold in the building, and you have no idea where it’s coming from, it might be coming from a roof leak. Once even the smallest cracks are exposed in the infrastructure of the roof, you need to find it and take care of it before it turns into a problem that’s going become more costly if you put it off.

If you notice any of these things, you should plan a time to head to the roof yourself or schedule an appointment with your local roofing professional. When there are signs on the inside of your building, then you never know what’s going on on the outside of the roof.

What to Look For On the Outside

If you choose to head to the roof yourself, be sure to have someone that can spot you and make sure that nothing dangerous happens when you’re checking out the roof. Prolonged moisture is something that you look for. Check for things like puddles or bubbles. The moisture can cause deterioration and aging to your roof if they linger for too long. Places like chimneys and vents are popular places for cracks once they already broke through the roof’s infrastructure. You should also be on the lookout for things like cracked and lifted shingles or loose sealing.

You should definitely get your roof inspected after your building deals with extreme weather, such as a hurricane or a snowstorm. These instances can often weather down a once strong roof, bit by bit, until it finally breaks down. You never know what storm is going to be that last straw. It’s best to check each level of your roof to make sure that it never gets to that point of no return.

Finding a Professional

If you’re looking for professional guidance throughout this journey, be sure that you do your research first. Before contacting a professional, make sure to check the areas around the building that you can reach. Be sure to tell them everything you discovered throughout your walk-through so they can have an idea about what they will be looking for before they even walk in the door. Before you give money to them, you want to make sure that they’re as informed as possible about the building. Tell them things like how old the building is, when was the last time the roof was replaced, and other things that you’ve discovered while searching for roof damage. These tips will assure you that your money is well spent.

When determining a price range, you should think about who is going to save you time and money in the long run. You shouldn’t just be worrying about the amount of money that each job is going to cost. You might find low-price options that offer quick fixes, but end up spending more money long-term on maintenance than you would have if you paid that premium price upfront. Finding professional roofers with expert knowledge and quality technology provides you with the best service possible along with the ability to establish a lifelong relationship that will benefit you, your business, and your roof. Your main goal should be to maximize the safety of your employees by extending the life of your roof. This will make the time between each maintenance job longer and longer. This will, of course, be saving you the mighty dollar and unnecessary stress.

Experience is key. If you pick roofers that tend to be than experienced than other roofers, it can lead to faulty work and create bigger problems for you in the future. When you are confident in your choice for a professional to handle the maintenance of your roof,  you’ll know who to go to for not only costly problems but for advice that’ll help you get ahead of your roof and be more proactive in the future also.

To have a solid business structure, you need a solid roof. It’s a part of a building that can often be forgotten in a fast-paced work atmosphere. If you fit roof maintenance into your work routine you will not only be prepared, but you can also be proactive. When you’re proactive you prevent problems before they start and have more time to work on different aspects of your business. So, make sure to put roof maintenance on your to-do list today so you can soon breathe easy as you cross it off.

 

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Best Metal Roofing for Residential Homes

The roof on your house needs to be strong, sturdy, and reliable. Metal roofing can be a great option for your home because it does all three, and it does them extremely well. No matter what the weather’s like where you live, having a metal roof would benefit you. These roofs can withstand storms, extreme weather changes, and snow extremely well. If you’re thinking about buying a metal roof for your home, you might be thinking about what specific metal you’d like to utilize for your home. Read on to figure out the pros and the cons of each material, and figure out which one is the right one for you.

Types of Metal

There are a couple of different choices you have when it comes to the metal that you can choose for your roof. The most popular options are various types of steels, aluminum, copper, and zinc. There are also metals that are combinations of the few. All of these types of roofs have various pros and cons that will either convince you to purchase them or push you away.

Steel is the material that is most used in residential homes. That fact probably has a lot to do with its low cost. But often, galvanized steel (a low cost, thinner version) can corrode very easily when it’s exposed to heavy amounts of saltwater. In turn, you probably don’t want to use this material for homes that are by the water (beach homes, etc.) The prices of steel depend on the type of steel that you’re getting. If you’re looking at stone-coated steel it starts at about $400 dollars a square. If you’re trying to get steel shingles, that might be about $270 a square. But typically, if you’re not trying to go for the fancy stuff, ordering steel for your roof is going to set you back at least $300 dollars a square. If installed right, your steel roof should last you at least 50 years.

Aluminum is the second most popular steel for roofing. It’s so popular because it’s more durable than steel, while only being a fraction of the price of premium steels like copper and zinc. When it comes to how it would fair in a coastal home, aluminum works a completely different way than steel does. If you’re living in a place by the beach, then aluminum would be the best choice for your home. It’s often thought of as a step up from steel when it comes to the quality. In turn, you’re going to have to give up a bit more cash. In general, it costs about $100 more per square than steel. Along with steel, aluminum will also last you at least 50 years.

The most expensive metals and the most durable of the bunch are definitely copper and zinc. These are roofs that could last hundreds of years with the proper care. But, if you’re looking for that longevity, you’re going to have to cough up some serious coin. They both cost about $900 to $1400 dollars a square. Because of the pricing, most people don’t make roofs that are fully out of copper. They usually just use it for accents throughout the home. But hey, if you’ve got enough money to pay for a fully copper or zinc roof then be my guest. If you’re trying to calculate the full cost of setting up your copper or zinc roof, it usually will be around $1800 for materials and labor per square.

Benefits of Having a Metal Roof

No matter what type of metal you’d prefer to use, they’re going to bring most of the same benefits. When it comes to the horrors of the winter season like ice dams and snow, a metal roof is going to be your best protection against it. They are thought of like ice and snow shedding system, so you’re not going to have to worry about roof leaks. Speaking of weather, these roofs can withstand hurricane-level winds. That makes them great for people who live in states where hurricanes are more prevalent.

The durability of metal roofs is what separates them from other types of roofs. You won’t have to worry about it cracking, rotting, or splitting. You’re also not going to find any creatures or rodents in your roof. They’re not going to survive on metal. It’s fire-resistant, so you won’t have to worry about it like you would for a wood or asphalt roof. Whether you’re dealing with a hailstorm or sticks from overhead trees, it’s not going to damage the roof. This roof can handle almost anything that life might throw at it. When it comes to maintenance, you won’t have too many problems. The credit goes to the material’s incredible durability.

When you have a metal roof, you’ll see a difference in your energy bill. You can save at least 25%, due to the roof’s reflective nature. Copper and zinc aren’t as energy efficient as aluminum and steel. But, when you’re talking about energy-saving capability, it’s a lot better than dealing with asphalt. If you’re interested in saving the environment and reducing the amount of waste you produce, having a metal roof would be a great option. It uses the least amount of resources and can always be recycled. It can be recycled hundreds of times without worry about the material corroding. That means that it’ll never end up in a landfill once it reaches the end of its lifespan, reducing the country’s waste. Choosing a metal roof is one of the greenest choices that you can make when you’re finalizing your home.

Choosing the material of your roof can be difficult. There are pros and cons to each type of metal. But, they all are specialized enough that you can pick the perfect one for you from the choices given. Whether you choose steel or copper, metal roofs provide great benefits for your home that your family will love and adore for years and years to come.

 

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How to Find a Good Roofing Company

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The only thing that’s standing in between you and your perfect roof is the search to find an amazing roofing company. Whether you’re looking to provide maintenance on the roof you already own or constructing a new roof from scratch, a roofing company can be there for you every step of the way to provide professional services. However, you might often be bombarded with many different choices when it comes to figuring out what roofing company you want to work with. But, fear not! Here are a couple of tips and tricks to figure out how to find your perfect roofing company.

Research, Research, Research

Do all the research that you possibly can when you’re trying to find a roofing company. Utilize all the resources that you have in front of you. The Internet is a great source for researching roofing companies and you can often find worthwhile, fair reviews on sites like Yelp. But by far, the best research that you can do is with those who are close to you. Ask friends and family about the roofing companies that they’ve been involved with in the past. Check with places like the Better Business Bureau and the Home Builders Association, to see if there have been any complaints made against the companies that you are looking into. A first-person account is going to be your best asset when it comes to figuring out the best roofing company for you.

It would be a good idea to work with a roofing company that’s local. Try and find someone that’s been in the business for a long time and has a good reputation with the community. Steer clear from one that has just popped up. They might not be a valid business, with the needed experience to assist you best. You want to make sure that the company that you work with will be around for the length of your given warranty. Before you invite a roofer into your home for an estimate, be sure to do a quick survey of your home yourself so you can inform your roofer about the possible problems that might be going on in your home. Make a list so you don’t forget. You don’t want to leave anything out.

You Get What You Pay For

Your best bet is to trust your roof with someone who is a licensed and insured contractor. You might find lower cost options with individuals who aren’t both, but you shouldn’t waste your time. Ultimately, you get what you pay for. Even though you might be saving money per job, you’re not going to be saving money in the long run. It’s best to make sure that you’re covered as much as possible in case of an emergency. If they’re insured, then you’re insured as well.

If you’ve found a company that you enjoy, ask them for a couple testimonials and references. If they’re legitimate, they’re going to have no problem providing this information for you. Call them yourselves and ask them any questions that come to mind. Don’t hold back; your mighty dollar and precious roof depend on it.

Contracts & Paying for the Job

Be sure to ask them if you’re going to be charged for a quote before they come into your home. Nobody likes unexpected bills. After they’ve checked out your roof, get your quote in writing and signed by the roofer. Include all of the oral promises that they’ve made. If they try to hike up the price on you, you can always show them this as evidence to bring them back into reality.

Read your contract in full and take all the time that you need before you sign it. Get a second pair of eyes to confirm any questions that you might have. Ask all the questions that you have for your roofer as well. Ask about variations of price, and what the variation would mean for you. This is the most important time for you to get informed. After you sign that contract, you are legally bound.

Be very skeptical of anyone who asks you to pay for the entire job up front. That’s not the norm within the roofing industry. The BBB (Better Business Bureau) states that a deposit of one-third of the full price is the standard. Don’t pay for the full job until it’s up to your standard, and your questions are answered. You deserve quality, and you should be absolutely sure that you’re satisfied before you pay.

In Case of Emergency

In a perfect world, you should be establishing a relationship with a roofing company that not only deals with reactive maintenance but also proactive maintenance. But, accidents happen. If there’s an emergency, like extremely severe weather, don’t let your fear speed up the process. Go through the same process of getting all the information that you need before signing on the dotted line. Don’t let a company try and push you into signing a contract because of an emergency.

You might want to have a chat with your insurance agent for advice on how to go about getting repairs. They usually have good information when it comes to handling roof damage after a storm.

Picking the right roofing company to work with is a very important decision. Before you commit to a roofing company, be sure to do all the research that you possibly can. We have a ton of resources at our disposal, especially with the internet. Exhaust them all before putting your money into a company. Ask whoever will listen about the roofing companies that they’ve worked with in the past and listen to all the first-hand accounts that you can, good or bad. As you decide to commit, read your contract in full and make sure you understand everything that’s on it. Don’t let anything rush the process of you finding a good roofing company, even in case of an emergency. You should do what makes you comfortable and work with a company that you trust fully. Working on your roof is a big deal. Don’t give the job to a company that doesn’t deserve it.

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Does Your Home Need Roof Ventilation?

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Research shows that most homes do not have proper roof ventilation and this can lead to severe roof damage. If your attic is not properly ventilated your energy bills can go through the roof. Contact a roof specialist to help you examine the roof. You can also have an energy audit conducted to determine if you have enough attic vents.

The intent of venting roofs varies depending on the climate. If you live in a cold climate the purpose of ventilations is to maintain a cold roof temperature to avoid ice dams created by melting snow and to vent any moisture that moves into the attic space. If you live in a hot climate, ventilation is important to expel solar-heated hot air from the attic or roof to reduce the building cooling load and to relieve the strain on your air-conditioner. If you live in a mixed climate, ventilation services either role.

If your attic and roof does not have the proper ventilation there is a lot of damage that can occur to the inside of your home. If you pay attention to what is happening inside your home you can usually tell if your home does not have the proper ventilation. Check the temperature of your roof and attic. If the temperature of your attic is the same as the rest of your living space you have a problem. The best way to tell if the temperature is wrong is by measuring the thickness of the existing insulation. This will help determine if there is a possible problem with your ventilation. Check your attic’s ventilation during the winter by taking a flashlight and checking for condensation and damp spots. If you have ventilation and this is occurring this probably means that there is a leak in your ventilation that needs to be sealed.  During the summer touch your ceiling. If your ceiling is hot it means that there is little to no ventilation and the sun’s rays are cooking your roof’s shingles.

If you live in a climate that changes during the seasons chances are you will have some issues with your ventilation. The easiest way to tell occurs with the changing temperatures. Water dams during the winter come together to cause icicles to form. They appear beautiful but it can do a lot of damage to your gutters and roof by pulling down shingles. This damage can move on to leaks that can cause water damage to your roof, ceiling and walls.

Prevent water dams by first preventing the upward migration of warm air. Seal air leaks between the heated part of the house and the attic. Air leakage usually come from trap doors, plumbing stacks, chimneys, electrical wiring and unsealed pot lights. Install foam insulation or caulking will help block leaks. Add a thick insulation blanket of fiberglass or cellulose between the joists in the attic to keep the warmth in the lower part of the house where it belongs. Adding extra insulation to your attic is the best way to ensure that the attic temperature is distinct from the temperature in your living space.

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