Blog

Which type of metal roof is best?

The five most commonly used types of metals are: 

Galvalume

Introduced in the 1970s, it is a combination of three types of metal that gives us Galvalume.  The combination of aluminum, steel, and zine with a carbon steel base sheet that is nonstop hot dipped with aluminum and zinc alloys, results in a durable, strong metal material ideal for metal roof installation on commercial or residential properties. 

The Pros of Galvalume include: 

• Color Options
• Least Expensive
• Corrosion Resistant
• Easy to Form
• Recyclable
• Can be installed over an existing material and warrantied for weather-tight roofing and labor warrantied when installed by a certified roofing contractor. 

The Cons of Galvalume include: 

• Oil Canning – This can minimize when installed by an experienced roofing contractor 
• Chalking and Fading
• Interactions with other materials

Aluminum

A predominant and popular metal, the third in the abundance of availability that can withstand extreme weather and is a sustainable material for commercial and residential metal roof installations. 

The pros of aluminum include: 

• Highly Recyclable
• Lightweight Strength
• Corrosion-resistant 
• Rust resistant 
• Medium Price Point
• Readily Available

The cons of aluminum include: 

• Natural Color
• Easily dents
• Thermal Movement

Zinc 

Ideal for commercial and residential metal roof installations with a history of withstanding the test of time. Made from a natural element, this material is 23^rd in abundance and there is no end in sight to its availability. 

The pros of zinc include: 

• Longevity
• Ecofriendly
• Energy Savings
• Self-healing
• Easy Maintenance
• Easy to Form

The cons of zinc include:

• Expensive
• Oil Canning
• Underside Corrosion
• Ventilation

Copper

Copper roofing has been used for thousands of years, records indicate it was used in 27 B.C. on Pantheon and is still used today in both commercial and residential metal roof installation. 

The pros of copper include: 

• Lightweight
• Energy-efficient
• Durable
• Aesthetically Pleasing
• Recyclable
• Solderable

The cons of copper include: 

• Very Expensive
• Contraction/ Expansion
• Patina
• Run-off Staining

Stainless Steel 

This is another popular metal for commercial and residential metal roof installation and is known for its durability and strength.

The pros of Stainless Steel include: 

• Durability
• Weathers Elements
• Contraction/Expansion
• Warranty
• Finish Options 

The cons of stainless steel 

• Expensive
• Standing Water

How long does a metal roof last?

The quality of the metal used, and the quality of the metal roof installation job has a big influence on the lifespan of a metal roof installation. Most metal roofing will last between 40 years and 70 years, with copper roofing lasting up to 100 years or longer. 

Follow-up maintenance and proper ventilation will impact the longevity as well the climate and environment. Part of the maintenance is keeping the roofing clean, and it is recommended to have this done by a contractor that is experienced in how to clean a metal roofing without damage. 

Do metal roofs attract lightning?

There has not been any scientific proof that a metal roof installation will attract lightning any more than other roofing materials. The attraction of lightning hitting a structure appears to be the height of the structure, such as being on a hill over flat land and being in an open area. 

Do metal roofs attract heat?

On the contrary!  Metal roofing has a low thermal mass that reflects the sun’s UV rays instead of absorbing them like other types of roofing materials. 

Is it recommended to insulate under a metal roof?

Yes, it is recommended by industry experts to have insulation installed under a metal roofing material. This will help with the energy efficiency and sound deadening too. 

What color metal roof is best?

For structures in Oklahoma where the summers get blistering hot, you want to choose a color that will reflect the UV rays of the sun best. So, which metal roof color is best? The recommended colors are white, light blues, grays, and greens to get the best reflection results. For areas where the winters are more prominent, choose dark colors that will absorb the UV rays and keep the interior warm.

After a hailstorm, there is more of a chance your roof has some damage than it doesn’t. With hailstones, the damage could be minimal, it could be extreme. There are three factors that will have an effect if there are any hail damage roof repairs to be done:

• The age and condition of your roof 
• The size of the hailstones
• The velocity of the hailstones

You won’t know until you or you have a roofing contractor inspect your roof. Hail comes down in random patterns, it may not hit your house but leave your next-door neighbor’s roof beaten. There are two things about hailstones: 

• You can’t always see hail damage roof repairs are needed from the ground. 
• The untrained eye won’t see all the possible hail damage. 

A hailstorm can do serious damage to your roof. Can small hail damage a roof? Yes, even the smallest of hailstones can do damage if it comes in with enough velocity and at the right angle. It has been observed over the years that hail damage can happen from a hailstone that is less than 1” in diameter. Hailstones have been measured up to the size of a softball. 

From bruising and cracking roofing shingles, flashing, chimney cap, vents, skylights, etc. Every bit of damage, even the smallest of hailstone pocks can be a potential for water damage to the roof and inside your home. 

What does roof damage from hail look like? 

The first type of hail damage roof repairs may be needed is on the roof’s surface. The indication of hail damage to a roof are:  

• Small divots or pock marks
• Black round areas
• Bruising
• Bald spots on shingles (missing asphalt granules that are usually in the gutter runs and downspouts)

However, hail damage roof repair needs aren’t always visible on the surface, and this is where having a professional roof inspection is needed. An experienced roofing contractor will know how to find hail damage on a roof, like on the backside of the roofing shingles. 

Sometimes hailstone impacts will crack and split shingles, but it is only visible if you lift the shingles. This still leaves your roof vulnerable for possible roof leaks if you don’t have the hail damage roof repairs or roof replacement. 

Can hail damage cause roof leaks?

Absolutely!  Hail damage isn’t just a cosmetic issue like it is on your grill or patio furniture. If hail can bust your car’s windshield out, imagine what it can do your roof! 

If there is hail damage, roof repairs are important to make sure you don’t have any roof leaks. Hail damage could allow water to get through the roofing system that is meant to protect your home and family. If there is any break or weak spot in this system, your home is vulnerable to serious water damage. 

What is the recommendation for when to repair roof hail damage? 

A roofing contractor can provide you a hail damage roof repair inspection. They will advise you of what kind of damage they found, if any. An experienced roofing contractor is trained to know the difference between hail damage and other types of damage like:

• Blistering and cracking caused by the sun’s UV rays 
• Scuffing from when roofing shingles were installed
• Debris and wind defacement
• Aged and worn shingles

Once the roofing contractor has identified the damage, they will provide an estimate and advise on whether hail damage roof repairs or a roof replacement is needed.

Common Types of Commercial Roofing

Commercial structures are usually large and expansive structures with flat roofing. That type of roofing needs roofing material that is durable, strong, and holds up to the various types of weather here. What is the most common type of commercial roof in this area? There are six types of materials and methods used for commercial roof installation here in Oklahoma. Each has benefits that can give a commercial building owner the opportunity to choose the best for their structure and budget: 

BUR (Built-up roofing): A long-trusted commercial roofing solution, this is often referred to as the “old-school” method for a commercial roof installation. This is a flat roof treatment involving roofing felt and asphalt-based roofing tar being applied in multiple layers. The top layer can be either gravel or a reflective coating, with the reflective coating lessening the need for air conditioning as it reflects the UV rays and heat. A durable roofing material that makes it easy to repair simply by adding more layers of roofing felt and roof coating. 

The downside to this type of repair is the added weight to the roof and the increase in the material will cost more when a new commercial roof installation is needed in the future. When low maintenance and lightweight are the concern, BUR isn’t the best option. For the economics of installation, it is the winning material. 

Modified bitumen: Ideal for small-scale commercial roof installation. Installation is easier with the 3 foot wide rolls that come from the factory. A contractor rolls the materials out, overlaps the seams, and attaches them with a heat welding or a roofing adhesive. This roofing material has a reflective coating added after installation for durability and heat reduction from the UV rays.

EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer): This commercial roof installation material has a strong successful history. Looks like a rubber inner tube and is delivered to the job site in large rolls, making it easy for commercial roof installation. This flexible rubber material is attached to the substrate with adhesive or mechanical fasteners. It provides up to a 20-year lifespan with little to no maintenance. A reflective roof coating and white top layer help with the cooling costs. The downside to this commercial roof installation material is exotic chemical derivation. 

PVC roofing:  A cost-efficient and effective material for a commercial roof installation. A single-ply roofing material made from polyvinyl chloride and similar to EPDM commercial roofing material, ideal for larger commercial roof installation jobs. The seams of the PVC sheets are heat welded together, with the results of a moisture-resistant membrane with durability. The natural white roofing material provides a heat-reflective quality without needing any additional roof coating or treatment.   

TPO roofing: An affordable, single-ply commercial roof installation option. Thermo-Plastic Olefin has a chemical composition, creating a fabric-like material, and is a relative newcomer in the roofing industry. Available in various sizes, it is ideal for flat commercial roof installation projects. This material can be installed using one of three different methods, using adhesives, mechanical fasteners or heat welding. It must be installed on a clean substrate like EPDM and PVC and is less expensive than EPDM or PVC. It’s too new in the industry to boast about its track record.

SPF (Spray Polyurethane Foam): For a commercial roof installation that will do it all, including the commercial roofing, commercial roof flashing, and commercial roof insulation, this is the best choice. It’s a money saver over the other options because the old roofing material does not have to be removed first. A continuous layer of this high-density foam is applied over any surface material and seals any leaks and bridges gaps. Provides a waterproof barrier across the roof and around any roof penetrations. Once it has cured, spray foam roofing provides insulation that reduces cooling and heating costs and prevents ultraviolet degradation.

What is a commercial roof coating?

Commercial roof coating provides several benefits for a commercial structure. The key purpose is to improve the overall performance of a commercial roof installation. It extends the lifespan and provides a moisture-resistant, UV-resistant surface. 

How do you maintain a commercial roof?

Just like your home, the roof of a commercial structure is a crucial component. Once the commercial roof installation is complete, to mitigate the possibility of potential problems, regular roof maintenance should be performed. That maintenance should include the following: 

• Repair All Leaks Immediately
• Have Professional Roof Twice a Year 
• Minimize Foot Traffic
• Perform Inspection after Extreme Weather Events
• Have Routine Roof, Gutter, and Drain Cleaning
• Keep Tree Branches Trimmed Back
• Check All Roof Mounted Equipment is Functioning
• Keep Snow Cleared During Winter Months

How do you clean a commercial roof?

If professional cleaning isn’t within the budget, your maintenance staff can do a thorough roof cleaning using a mild, non-abrasive cleaning solution and a long-handled soft-bristle brush. Gently but firmly scrub the entire roof and then rinse with clear water using a pressure washer on the softest setting.

How do you inspect a commercial roof?

 Most commercial roofing contractors will provide free commercial roof inspections. The guidelines may vary between companies, but the basics will include walking the roof, starting at the perimeter and work to the middle. This ensures that they have checked every inch of the roof and not missed any common or important areas of concern. Things that are observed are:

• Ponding or pooled water
• Blisters, cracks, or holes in the substrate
• Separated or uplifted seams
• Blocked, clogged drains
• Loose or missing flashing
• Anything that looks out of place

How long does it take to replace a commercial roof?

The first factor is the size of the roof, and the second factor is the material for the commercial roof installation. An average sized structure with any of the roofing materials we’ve discussed will take usually 5 to 7 days. A larger structure can take up to 2 weeks and with metal commercial roof installation, you can expect 2 weeks. 

For either a commercial or residential structure, a leaking roof would be a seemingly obvious emergency roof repair. But not every roof leak is an emergency – although they all need to be repaired. A roofing contractor measures what makes an obvious emergency roof repair an emergency with these factors: 

• Some causes of roof leaks include a tree branch, limb, tree, or other object that has fallen or been blown onto a roof, creating a hole. With a hole, the roof is in danger of caving in, and there’s nothing to keep the elements from coming inside. 
• Roofing shingles or other roofing materials like the flashing can be loosened or torn away. This leads to areas where the roof can start leaking as the water begins coming in. 
• If a tarp must be temporarily installed over an area of the roof to keep more water from coming in, this is considered an emergency roof repair. Note that a tarp is a temporary repair and a more durable repair should be done. 
• Not all emergency roof repairs are caused by trees and flying debris in a storm. A fire can burn a section of a roof and compromise the roof’s integrity. A fire can damage the roof deck, joints, and the roof material. 

What does a roof leak look like?

Evidently, if there is water is everywhere, you either have an emergency roof leak on your hands or an issue such as a busted water heater. Indicators such as where the water is standing will tell you if the problem is an issue like a leak in the water heater or a roofing emergency. There are a few things to look for to determine whether you have a roof leak. Some roof leaks are large and some are small, and their appearance can vary greatly. A few indicators, other than an obvious sign like a hole in the roof, would be any of the following: 

Water Stains

A water stain may appear as a spot like a brown ring around what appears to be a puddle of water on the ceiling. A leaking ceiling isn’t always easy to identify, especially if the spot is in a dark corner or the stains are small. Once you notice these stains, check closer for discoloration, moisture, and mold. 

Dripping

If there is moisture on the wall or dripping water, you could be dealing with a leaking roof. This small of a leak may disappear as quickly as you notice it, but that doesn’t mean the leak has quit. Especially during the winter, there may be an ice dam caused by ice and snow freezing, thawing, melting, and refreezing. As it thaws, the water seeps under the shingles, and in a short time, you’ll have an intermittent roof leak. 

Spots on Exterior Walls

Once a month and after a weather event, walk around your home, checking the roofline. If you notice water spots under the eaves or where the roof and walls meet, this could be from loose or missing flashing. 

Green Growth

When a roof has algae, moss, or mold growing on it, typically on the shaded side of the house, this means there is moisture under the shingles. This may be more dangerous than you think because algae, moss, and mold can start eating away at the roofing. This indicates that you should check in the attic for a possible roof leak.

Missing Shingles or Debris In the Downspouts

Missing shingles are leaving your roof vulnerable to an emergency roof leak if not addressed. If the seams between the shingles are loose or the gutter downspouts are filled with asphalt granules and other debris, you could be dealing with the beginnings of a slow leak in the attic, inside the wall, or in the crawl space. 

Can you fix a leaking roof in the rain?

Yes, but to do a temporary emergency roof repair, you first need to know how to find a roof leak. This will require going into the attic with a flashlight. With the flashlight, look for the following: 

• Dark spots on the insulation and roof joists. 
• Look for mildew and mold growth and smell. 
• Discoloration from water stains on the roofing material and roof joists. 
• Check for condensation on all surfaces. 
• Look for damaged insulation like dampness, holes, or stains. 

Next, turn the flashlight off and see if there is any sunlight coming through the roof. If you see any, this means there are gaps or holes that need to be taken care of. If there is water coming through, it’s time for an emergency roof repair. 

How do I temporarily fix my roof?

As a homeowner, it is important to know how to handle an emergency roof repair because a roofing contractor isn’t always going to be available as soon as you call. With a plastic tarp, 2×4 boards, and nails or screws, you can make a temporary patch on top of the roof. 

• Measure the area of the damage and add 2 to 3 inches. 
• Cut the 2×4 board to fit those measurements. 
• Stretch the plastic tarp over the hole and place the 2×4 board around the edges of the damaged area. 
• Nail or screw the boards into the roof to hold the tarp down. 

On the inside, with a piece of plywood or roofing shingles and some 2×4 boards, cover the hole from the underside. Apply roofing tar around the edges of the damage and then plywood over that. Press them into place with the 2×4 board and nail or screw them into place. 

The thermal emittance is the ability of a cool roof to emit the absorbed and non-reflected solar energy. While the standard roofing materials and dark colored roofing reach a temperature of 150°F or higher during the summer, a cool roof will stay 50°F and more cooler. 

This temperature drop will reduce the energy costs for the structure, maintain the roof’s durability, and reduce the structure’s contribution to the urban heat island effect, just a part of a cool roof benefits. 

What are the benefits of a cool roof in addition to those three things?

• Indoor conditions have improved comfort, including non-air conditioned areas like garages, patios, etc. 
• Helps the climate change by conserving electricity with less air conditioning use, directly reducing the greenhouse gas emissions, and lowering power plants CO2 emissions, mercury, nitrous oxides, and sulfur dioxide. 
• Earn an ENERGY STAR label which can bring tax benefits locally and federally.
• Lowers roof maintenance needs, a saving on labor and materials. 

What color roof is most energy efficient?

Whether you’re concerned about energy efficiency for a commercial, industrial, or residential  property, the maintenance and upkeep can be costly. With monthly mortgage or rental payments, insurance, in addition to the maintenance and repairs, there are the utility bills too. It is a never-ending and sometimes staggering reality. Thankfully, there are ways to help save some money, like a cool roof. 

A roof is what protects your business, home, employees and customer, or family, and the contents. The structure is an investment, and with a cool roof for hot climate, you can save even more on those energy bills, which includes choosing a color that will work with the cool roof system. 

A cool roof itself will do a lot to help with the energy efficiency of your business or home, but you can help it do better by choosing a lighter color here in the Oklahoma and immediate areas. There isn’t any specific color that will do a better job over the others, just lighter in general should be the goal. White is always the most reflective, but you can go with a light beige, light blue, light green, or light grey and get added reflectiveness to help your cool roof system. 

Does a white roof save energy?

Absolutely, to get even more cool roof energy savings, a white roof can reduce the energy usage by up to 20 percent. Even in Oklahoma’s hot, humid, powerful sunny weather.  When you go outside on a hot August day in Oklahoma wearing black, you can feel the sun being absorbed into your clothing.  Go outside on the same kind of August day wearing white, and while you may feel the sun, it isn’t absorbing into your clothing.  The same holds true for a cool roof. 

An additional way to help with the energy efficiency of your business or home is adequate and proper insulation and ventilation. The insulation will minimize even more of the heat entering your structure.  Proper ventilation will make sure the hot air is leaving the attic area and under the cool roof system, and not building up moisture. 

A green roof provides a structure an additional layer of insulation, ideal for structures with colder seasons. A green roof captures storm water runoff, whereas a cool roof does not. However, depending on the level of green roof you choose, it will take constant maintenance and upkeep with feeding, watering, weeding, and harvesting. Call (405) 470-9115 today for your cool roofing in Yukon and Oklahoma City, OK.

• Ceiling and/or walls have water spots and stains. 
• You notice missing shingles on the roof.
• You see shingles that are bent, cracked, or otherwise damaged on the roof. 
• Flashing is damaged or missing. 
• Rubber boots around  roof penetrations are damaged or missing.
• The attic insulation is damp, mildewed, or wet. 
• The underside of roof decking has water spots.

Once you have determined you have a leaking roof, the challenge is finding a roof leak. A roof leak isn’t right where the water is coming in usually. Water finds the path of least resistance, so while the roof may be leaking above the living room, but running down into a bedroom, or other scenarios of rooms.  So, how do you find where the leak is so that roof repairs can be made? 

Start in the attic to find a leak. If it is raining, this will be easy and fast. With a flashlight, you’ll see water reflections which will take you to the source. Now mark the area where obvious roof repair is needed with chalk or a marker. Then climb up on the roof with somebody staying in the attic to assist you. 

Have them tap on the area you just marked to help you locate that area on the rooftop. You can make temporary roof repairs while you’re up there if it is a small area.  Use roofing cement and a couple of shingles to cover the area. Or if you determine the leak is coming from one of the following areas, you may be able to make a temporary roof repair there or you may need professional roofing contractor services. 

If you didn’t find the source of the roof leak with that method, check these areas: :

• Rubber boots and rubber seals around roof protrusions like electric, plumbing, exhaust fans, and vents. 
• The ridge cap across the top of the roof.
• The flashing around the chimney, dormers, in the valleys, etc. 
• Damaged, loose, or missing shingles
• Along the gutter runs and downspouts

Do you know what to do if your ceiling is leaking?

Once you realize you have a leaking ceiling, immediate action on your part is important so that further damage is avoided. First thing you need to do is contain the leak. How? 

• Place a bucket or some type of container under the leak or where there is indication of a leak. This may be a bulging and/or discolored areas of the ceiling where water has pooled up. 
• Position a board from inside that bucket/container to the leaking area. Now when you take the next step we’re going to tell you, the water will run down that board and into the bucket/container. 
• Take a screwdriver and puncture the center of that bulging area.  This lets the pooling water out so that it isn’t spreading and takes the pressure of the rest of the ceiling. 

If you are confident of the leak’s location, how to patch a roof leak, and can safely do this, cover the area with a large plastic tarp. Then call a professional roofing contractor. If you aren’t able or comfortable doing this, then contact a professional roofing contractor immediately. The longer this leak is happening, the more damage it is causing. 

Is a leaking roof an emergency?

Maybe not immediately, but water is destructive.  The damage will escalate into a bigger leak and create an emergency.  The sooner you or a professional that knows how to fix a leaking roof get the roof repair done, the better. 

When you do call a roofing contractor for roof inspection and roof repair, advise them where you have found the leak, what type of roofing material you have on your home, the number of stories of your house, and if you have a flat roof. Leak repair for a flat roof is a different process and not all roofing contractors handle both. Call (405) 470-9115 today for your roof leak repair in Yukon and Oklahoma City, OK.

The roof restoration process is cam be done within 10 days or less on 20,000 square foot structure by an experienced crew. The weather is the biggest hinderance on how quick the job is completed.  The four steps of this job are: 

1. Prep the Surface

The first step, a very crucial step of a roof restoration process is to clean the surface with pressure washing. The debris, dirt, dust, and any other contaminants must be removed, and the surface thoroughly dried before the roof restoration can begin. 

2. Details and Seams 

After existing roof surface is prepared, a thick waterproofing coating of mastic is applied to drains, fasteners, flashing, penetrations, seams, and transitions. This enables the roofing system to contract and expand with the temperatures fluctuating. These areas and components must be addressed before the next step in roof restoration to catch any possible leaks.

3. The Base Coat 

The next step to a roof restoration is the application of an elastomeric base coating. This gives the roofing installers the ability to build and keep a uniform thickness throughout the roof restoration process. Depending on the formula of restoration material used, your roof may or may not need a primer coat. Some roofing systems require a subsequent “intermediate” coat to get the right DFT (dry film thickness).

4.The Topcoat 

The last step to a roof restoration is applying a topcoat to provide the roofing system moisture protection and UV stability. The  topcoat is usually a bright-white membrane with optimum reflectivity. However, your roofing contractor can customize it with a variety of tin colors. 

How long does a roof restoration take?

A professional roof restoration using the 4 steps we listed can usually be done within 10 day or less on a 25,000 square foot commercial structure. 

How much is a roof restoration?

There isn’t any way to answer the question, “How much does roof restoration cost?” because of the various factors. Factors starting with the size of the structure and the condition of the existing roofing. While you may have had roof repairs done periodically, and that was a great money saving move, a roof restoration will buy you another 10-15 years before you have to invest in full roof replacement, at a fraction of the cost. 

How long does it take to replace a commercial roof?

The time it takes for replacing a commercial roof can depend on a few things. Like the size of the building and any repairs that need to be made before the job begin. When you schedule to have roof replacement done, you should advise your employees and/or tenants of the days so they can be prepared for the extra noise that comes with this type of work. 

With all this considered, a small commercial structure roof replacement can take 5 to 7 days. For a large commercial structure you can expect 2 to 3 weeks on average.  For every 3,000 square feet you can expect 4 days on the job. 

3. Extended Life

The roof coating used during a roof restoration will provide protection from the elements and give your roof another 10 to 15 years before you’ll need to worry with a roof replacement. 

4. Safety

A failing roof is potentially dangerous with even the smallest leak. The more a roof leaks, even small leaks, that moisture is building up and spreading, forming mold and that leads to health issues. That moisture is also going to compromise the structure if not addressed.

5. Element Resistance

A commercial building is exposed to the climate and weather, some of that weather can be severe. So if your building’s roof is already in weak condition, the more bad weather exposure the worse ti will get.  With a roof restoration, those bad roof areas are covered up and protected against the climate and elements.

6.Temperature Efficiency

Roof restoration will make your structure more  economically efficient with the protective coating that is installed because of the reflectiveness it will provide against the sun’s UV rays. 

7.  Non-Disruptive 

A roof restoration will be a non-disruptive process and is completed much faster than a new roof installation.  

8. Tax Benefits

This will be one to have your accountant handle, but there are tax credits and  tax deductions with roof restoration listed as a maintenance to the structure. Go with an eco-friendly roofing option, and here are more tax credits. 

So maybe you’ve had a roof restoration before? How often can you have this service done? A new commercial structure roof will typically last 20 years. At that point, a roof restoration is viable and will give you another 10 to 15 years. At that point, depending on the condition of the roof and if proper maintenance has been followed, another roof restoration may be possible. This is something that your roofing contractor will need to inspect the roof and advise. Let’s get started on your roof restoration in Yukon and Oklahoma City, OK. Call (405) 470-9115 today!

Who to call for roof inspection?

If you need a roof inspection for any of the following, call a licensed, professional roofing contractor: 

• Placing your home on the market
• The recommended twice-a-year roof inspection
• Suspect roof damage after a significant weather event.
• Changing homeowner’s insurance 

What do roof inspectors look for?

An experience, license roofing contractor will check the following during a basic roof inspection:

• Broken, missing, or torn shingles
• Excessive granule loss on shingles
• Old or worn rubber boots around pipes, vents, other roof protrusions
• Chimney cracks or missing chimney caps
• Missing caulk
• Bent, loose, missing, or rusted flashing
• Rot or sagging roof areas
• Bent, detached, missing, or sagging gutters

Is roof inspection free?

It can depend on the roofing contractor and the reason for the roof inspection. Free roof inspections are usually offered by a contractor that wants your business, typically after storm damage. If they do charge a fee, that amount is typically deducted from the total amount of the roofing job. 

A roof inspection prior to buying a house will usually be done by the home inspector, and for that  service, there is a charge. Typically between $250 to $400 and payable to the roof inspector who is a separate identity of your mortgage company. 

If you call a roof inspector for the first time to perform your bi-annual roof inspection, there is likely going to be a fee involved. Once you have a relationship established with a roofing contractor, the bi-annual inspection may be free. Again, this can vary from contactor to contractor, and you should verify this before scheduling the appointment. 

Do home inspectors go on roofs?

This can vary from inspector to inspector, but in general, if the inspector feels they can safely ascend the roof and perform the roof inspection safely, yes, they will climb up on the roof.  They will be checking for: 

• Broken, cracked, missing, or warped shingles
• Bent, loose, missing, or rusted flashing
• Check the gutters are attached and connected, the downspouts are in good shape. 

If you have a three story or higher home, then they likely will not climb the roof. Or if the day of the roof inspection appointment, if the weather is inclement, they will decline. 

Because the roof of your home is important and provides a layer of protection, you may want to have license, professional roofing inspector to do the roof inspection, which can have a fee associated as we mentioned earlier. 

Today, many roofing contractor companies, and insurance companies are doing roof inspections via drones that are  equipped with a camera. This circumvents the entire decision if the climb is necessary and safe. 

How do you know when you need to replace your roof?

When you want to know if your roofing needs to be replaced, do your own roof inspection. How do you inspect a roof? You start in your attic with a flashlight and check the eaves.  If you see water stains or notice any moisture, at the minimum, you need roof repair. Then turn the flashlight off and if you see daylight coming through, you need a new roof. 

Shingle Check 

Next, climb up on the roof if you can safely, and check the shingles. Shingles should all be flat. If any are bent, lifted, missing, or raised, you need to have a professional roof inspection. Check the downspouts and gutter runs. If they are full of asphalt granules, you should have a professional roof inspection done. 

Flashing

Check the flashing around the chimney, skylight, pipes, and vents. If it is bent, loose, missing, or rusted, you can replace these yourself or call a professional roofing contractor. They will perform a roof inspection themselves and the make suggestions on what should be done, providing you a written estimate. 

The soffit serves multiple purposes for a house: 

• Protection: The basic purpose protecting the roof rafters from moisture and other weather elements. If the hose didn’t have soffit, the rafters would get wet and mold, then the mold would spread to the attic and roofing. 

• Aesthetics: The soffit also provides an aesthetic finish to a house, adding character with a variety of colors and designs. The soffit adds interest to a home’s outward appearance.

• Ventilation: Another important purpose of a soffit will depend on the roof design. That possible third purpose of soffit is to provide the attic  natural ventilation. A soffit doesn’t have to be present for ventilation, there are ways for an attic to have ventilation, such as vents. 

However, a house with roof overhang is a perfect opportunity or natural ventilation be added for the attic. For this ventilation to work properly, there is a matter of balance between the eave intake and the roof vent exhaust along the roof’s peak. 

• Pest Control: The soffit keeps pests out of the attic, a favorite nesting and breeding area for critters and pests. When critters and pests have access to an attic, they will damage the roof, chew through electrical wires, and bring bacteria, disease, and germs to your home. 

Does a house need soffits?

Houses haven’t had always had soffits. There were gable vents or hood vents installed for air to reach the attic. The trouble with that method was the air did circulate. This allowed mold to form in the attic insulation. 

The soffit is passive ventilation that keeps warm moisture out of the attic that creates mold. The soffit outlines the roofline, allowing nonstop ventilation by cycling the air through the vents, pulling heat and moisture out. 

Do all houses have soffit vents?

No, not all houses have soffit with vents. Should they? In the opinion of experienced builders and contractors, if there is a roof overhangs and the height of the roof allows rom for soffit venting, soffit ventilation should be added. However, older homes typically do not have soffit vents. 

Years and years ago, attic ventilation importance wasn’t known to home builders. Thus, earlier built houses have inadequate attic venting. That lack of venting is what causes roof shingles to age faster and become warped.  Lack of attic ventilation also is one of biggest causes of high energy bills. 

Do soffits lead to attic?

Yes, this is where fresh air comes into an attic, circulating to the peak of the roof.  Many homeowners will outgrow their house and determine the attic makes perfect sense for an additional room or two. With that planned, the need to cool and heat the  attic becomes necessary, so the need for rafter venting comes into the picture. 

The rafter vents are installed in the rafter space, creating narrow gaps where fresh air enters from the soffit vents, going to the roof peak.  By installing these specialty vents, the finished aesthetics of the house’s exterior isn’t affected.  Yet, fresh air is still able to enter and flows through the attic space, keeping the roof sheathing dry and mold-free. 

There are several components to a roof, and where the fascia and soffit may appear to be a decorative touch to your home’s exterior aesthetics, they serve an important purpose. By not repairing or replacing one small area of soffit, you’re setting the entire roof up for rot and destruction.  This includes soffit cleaning every two to three years by blasting compressed air to remove dirt, dust, and loose insulation that has fallen. Need soffit installation or repair? Call (405) 470-9115 today!

Is standing seam metal roof worth it?

More and more people are choosing metal roofs for their homes, even though they often cost more than an asphalt shingle roof. Typically, a standing seam metal roof is installed, although this type of roof is generally more expensive than not only asphalt shingles but also other types of metal roof like corrugated metal. That’s because standing seam offers plenty of advantages despite the cost. Those advantages include:

• Longer lasting: You can your metal roof to last 50 years or more compared to the maximum of 25 years for an asphalt shingle roof.
• Greater protection from elements: Metal roofs hold up better to weathering, especially when it comes to high winds and hail. You’re also less likely to experience leaks with metal.
• Greater energy efficiency: Metal roofs reflect heat much better than shingles, so your roof will be more energy efficient.
• Lighter weight: Surprisingly, metal roofing panels actually weigh less than shingles by as much as one pound per square foot.

What are the disadvantages of a metal roof?

Although metal roofs have many advantages like longer life, they also have some disadvantages that include:

• Cost: Initial installation costs can be prohibitive, although costs can sometimes be offset by tax credits.
• Noise: Without adequate insulation, a standing seam metal roof will be noisy when it hails or even heavy rain. Most metal roofs, however, are backed with rigid foam insulation that will provide adequate insulation.
• Expansion and contraction: Metal expands and contracts as the temperature changes. Improper installation can cause problems like panels loosening. You won’t have to worry about improper installation when you choose Chisholm Trail Roofing & Construction as your roofer.

Can you put standing seam metal roof over shingles?

If you’re planning to upgrade your asphalt shingle roof to a standing seam metal roof, you might wonder if you can save on labor costs by not tearing off the shingles and just install the metal over it. It is a possibility, but not necessarily practical or effective. To do so, the shingles have to be at the end of their useful life and not have any damage like cracks or blisters. This is rare.

Other issues that can create serious problems later on include:

• Covering decking: You won’t be able to inspect the decking for any problems once a metal roof is installed over it.
• Finding leaks: It will be almost impossible to trace any leak that develops.
• Replacing roofing materials: Materials like underlayment, which helps protect the roof from leaks, can’t be replaced.

Can you walk on a standing seam metal roof?

At times, no matter what kind of roof you have, you or a roofing professional will have to walk on the roof. This can be for minor maintenance or for serious repairs. All types of roofing can be walked on for these purposes, and you should take care when walking on all roofs to avoid damage. If you have a standing seam metal roof and need to walk on it, you are generally safe to walk on any part of the roof. Still, check with the manufacturer or a roofing professional to find out how best to walk on any roof.

Can you paint standing seam metal roof?

Anytime you want to change the color or add some color to your metal roof, you have the option to paint it. When you do so, it’s best to use acrylic latex paint as it will adhere to the metal better than other types of paint. You also want to choose a paint that provides properties like water and fire resistance as well as UV reflection.

What is the best color for a metal roof?

Color is always important when you’re installing a standing seam metal roof. All metal roofs are highly reflective and will affect your building’s overall energy efficiency. In warmer climates, you’ll want lighter colors like white, light bronze, or beige because these colors will better reflect the heat. Darker colors will absorb more heat and are more effective in cooler climates.