Blog | Roofing Center

November 22, 2021

Roof Maintenance Tips Every Homeowner Needs to Know

Every year, millions of homeowners replace their roof, either because it has reached the end of its lifespan or the last storm really did a number on it. But even though everyone eventually needs to replace their roof, there are several maintenance tips for shingle roofs you can use to avoid tearing it off sooner rather than later. We’ve put together a quick-hitting roof maintenance checklist that will help you identify and prevent the kind of damage that spells doom for your average roof. The Essential Roof Maintenance Checklist 1. Check Your Shingles Regularly So, how do you maintain a roof? Well, the first step is simply to check up on it as often as possible, especially after a heavy storm or high winds. The good news is that you don’t have to clamber up a ladder to get a good look at your roof. Instead, all you need is a good pair of binoculars to see any potential problems. Here’s what you should look for when inspecting your roof yourself: • Missing shingles• Curling shingles• Cracked shingles• Peeling flashing• Missing granules Any of the above signs of damage should be looked at as soon as possible, preferably by a professional roofing contractor who can safely make the necessary repairs. “A house does not have a check engine light. Homeowners should inspect their roof any chance they get.” Frank Lesh | Executive Director, American Society of Home Inspectors 2. Get a Professional Roof Inspection Wondering why you should pay for a roofing inspection when you have our roof maintenance checklist right in front of you? An inspector will be able to spot potential problems you might’ve missed, as well as provide you with invaluable tips for maintaining your roof. They’ll also give you a rough idea of how many more years it will last. Most roofers recommend inspections every two years, but an inspection once a year will increase your chances of finding potential issues before they become costly repairs. How Much Does a Roof Inspection Cost? Roof inspections can vary in price from $250 to $650 on the high end. But the cost of hiring a roof inspector is much lower than the cost to replace your roof. Use the The American Society of Home Inspectors or the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors to find a reputable inspector near you. Their members are prohibited from offering to make their own recommended repairs, ensuring you receive a fair price and an honest opinion. 3. Look for Leaks in Your Attic & Ceilings Another good tip that your roof needs maintenance is finding water stains inside your house. You should be checking your ceilings and attic just as regularly as your roof itself for water damage to head off any serious issues. The most common warning signs of a leak are: Musty odors in certain rooms.Water stains on your ceiling.Spots on your exterior walls.Bulging patches on your interior walls. If you notice any of these signs, your next step is to locate the leak and call in a professional to patch up the hole in your roof. Though if you’re comfortable working on your home yourself, there are a couple of DIY repairs in the post below you may consider. Related: How to Locate a Roof Leak Before It Makes a Mess 4. Wash Your Roof A key piece of advice when it comes to maintaining a shingle roof is to wash it. At some point, your roof will start to look dirty, with long, dark streaks flowing from peak to eave. This is algae growing on your house. Algae won’t cause any immediate damage, but if you leave it long enough it can slowly rot your shingles. To get rid of these little plant-like critters, spray your roof with a 50 percent mix of water and bleach. The bleach will kill the algae fairly quickly, but you’ll also want to install copper strips just beneath your roof’s peak. When it rains, the copper molecules will stream down your roof, killing any algae fixing for a comeback. 5. Clean Your Gutters No roof maintenance checklist would be complete without this tip. Though it’s a dirty job, cleaning out your gutters is an essential part of maintaining your roof. Clogged gutters make it easy for water to seep under the structure of your roof, creating more than just a few water stains. Most experts recommend cleaning them out twice a year, once in late spring and again in early fall, as part of a regular fall home maintenance checklist. 6. Trim Any Overhanging Branches Tree branches can be a problem for a few reasons, the most obvious being the risk of them falling on your roof during severe weather. Be vigilant when it comes to your landscaping and cut off any large branches that are directly over your roof. This will help reduce storm damage, while also preventing leaves from piling on top of your shingles, absorbing moisture and eventually rotting your roof. Related: How to Prepare for a Storm (and Clean Up Afterwards) 7. Patch Up Your Chimney While running through your roof maintenance checklist, make sure you check out your chimney for cracks or missing mortar. Structural damage of any size can cause bricks to start falling out, which can damage your roof, let alone cause your chimney to collapse. You can either hire a contractor to patch up any mortar cracks, or break out a trowel and do it yourself. A sloping or leaning chimney can be caused by issues with your home’s foundation as well. If you notice your chimney has moved, call a contractor to have it fixed right away and check the rest of your home for signs of foundation problems. Important Roof Maintenance Tip: Always have a spotter when you’re working on a ladder. If you’re working on the roof itself, invest in a safety harness to avoid serious injuries. Better still, have a professional roofer take care of the repairs. What Should I Do When It’s Time to Replace My Roof? If you or an inspector determines your roof must be replaced, start looking for a good contractor. Googling is a good place to start, as Rick Damato of Roofing Contractor notes. “All of our reputations are online,” says Damato. “If a contractor is dishonest, somebody’s already written about it.” Once you’ve chosen a contractor, the most important thing is to be sure you fully understand the contract before signing it: “If you have any problem at all understanding the contract, have a lawyer look it over. It’s not at all expensive relative to the risk of exposure when you tear a roof off. It’s important to the homeowner because your roof protects the entire asset.” Rick Damato | Editorial Director, Roofing Contractor With our checklist of roof maintenance tips, and a good pair of binoculars, you’ll have everything you need to keep your roof in good repair for years to come. And if you do need to get rid of some roofing debris, there are plenty of quick and convenient disposal options for shingles.

Blog 0 6 min read

November 3, 2021

Tips to Find a Great Roofing Contractor

The roofing contractor you hire has a huge impact on every aspect of your roofing project. No matter if you need roof repairs or a full roof replacement, they impact the cost, the quality of the job, and more. That’s why it’s crucial to find a great roofing contractor for your roof investment. Unfortunately, the roofing industry doesn’t have the best reputation and is known to take advantage of some homeowners. We try every day to restore the reputation of the roofing industry. Which is why we’re going to give you tips on how to spot a great roofing contractor. Since 1990, the team at Bill Ragan Roofing has provided high-quality roofing services in the Nashville area. We work tirelessly to give homeowners like you all the knowledge they need to make the right hiring and purchasing decisions. Even if we’re not the right fit for you, we can at least point you in the right direction, so you don’t get taken advantage of. By the end of this article, you’ll learn the 7 tips to find a great roofing contractor. And at the very end, don’t miss out on getting your free checklist of questions to ask potential roofing contractors. 1. Only look at roofing contractors with a local address and phone number When looking at contractors to hire, it’s crucial that you pick one that’s local to your area. Only look for roofing contractors that have a physical office location in your area and a local phone number. This ensures you know where to find them if you ever have a problem with your roof. Be aware that some out of state companies come in after a big storm, undercut local roofing company prices, get the money, and move on to the next storm-hit town. These companies don’t care about local codes or if they properly install your roof. On the other hand, a quality local roofing company will know what local installation codes to follow, the paperwork required, and everything else they’ll need to ensure your roof is correctly installed and in compliance with your state’s requirements. 2. Every roofing contractor must be licensed, bonded, and insured Every roofing contractor should be licensed, bonded, and insured. These three pieces of paper are in place to protect you and ensure the job is done right. You need to make sure the roofing company is licensed, bonded, and insured in your state specifically. To ensure that they have all three, don’t be afraid to ask for proof. If a local roofing contractor is licensed, bonded, and insured, they’ll be more than proud to show you that they have all the appropriate paperwork. But what does this paperwork mean to you and your roof? Licensed For a contractor to get a license, all they have to do is register with your state’s board of licensing contractors. The price of the job will determine what license they’ll need. For example, a job over $3,000 requires a home improvement license and anything over $25,000 requires a general contractor’s license. Roofing contractors should have a general contractor’s license because a roof is a large investment. Bonded A bond ensures that if a company goes out of business during the middle of a job or if there’s a problem with the work and they don’t fix it, then the customer can fall back on the bond company. Being bonded means that a bonding company knows that a roofing contractor does business correctly and ethically. The bonding company puts up the bond because they know the contractor will do the job the right way. Insured All contractors should be fully insured with general liability, workman’s comp, and a company vehicle insurance policy on all the vehicles owned and unowned. General liability insurance and workman’s comp limits depend on the size of the contractor’s jobs and the state they’re in. If all they’re doing is small residential work, their general liability will not be as much as a company that does larger jobs. If a roofing contractor isn’t licensed, bonded, and insured in your state, don’t even think about hiring them. Otherwise, if something does go wrong, you will have literally zero recourse. 3. Make sure the roofing contractor is established in your area When you invest in a roof replacement, you need to research how long a potential roofing contractor has been in business. You should look for a roofing contractor that’s well established and has a strong history in your area. If you choose a newer roofing company that’s a couple of years old, chances are their prices will be a lot cheaper. The problem is they don’t know how to price jobs correctly to have retained earnings at the end of the year to get them through the winter months. That’s when a new company will shut down. That’s not to say there aren’t good young companies in your area. However, five years from now, you want to make sure the company will still be there to take care of your roof investment and any problems that come up. 4. Pick the roofing contractor that stands behind their workmanship Roof warranties are in place to protect your roof investment. You’ll have one on your roofing materials and another on the contractor’s workmanship. The warranty on a contractor’s workmanship protects you from improper roof installation or any other mistakes that happen during the installation process. Every roofing company should offer you some kind of workmanship warranty. They could offer anywhere from one year, two years, three years, five years, 10 years, 25 years, or even a lifetime. When looking at potential roofing contractors, you need to pick one that provides a lifetime warranty or close to it. This shows you they take pride in their work and stands behind it even if something goes wrong. On the other hand, if a roofing contractor doesn’t offer a workmanship warranty, don’t even think about hiring them. To learn more about why roof warranties are important to you and your roof, check out this article on what roof warranties cover. 5. Find out if a roofing contractor has certifications from the top shingle manufacturers The top shingle manufacturers pick six, eight, or 10 of the best contractors in any given area to go through their certification process. The certification(s) allows a roofing contractor to offer the best warranties and enhanced warranties on roofing materials from the shingle manufacturers. Look on a potential roofing contractor’s website or ask them if they’re certified by any of the manufacturers. What the certification tells you and other homeowners that the shingle manufacturer trusts that specific contractor and that they’re a reputable roofing company. If a contractor is established in the community and is known to do top-quality work, then the manufacturers will be the ones to seek them out about certifying. If a roofing contractor isn’t certified, it doesn’t mean they’re a bad company. However, to get the best roofing material warranties and learn who the top manufacturers trust, look for the certifications. 6. Read the roofing contractor’s reviews from recent customers There are so many ways to find a reputable roofer, plumber, carpenter, honestly anything you need in today’s digital world. The main way customers choose a service or company is by looking at reviews. When looking at the reviews of potential roofing contractors, make sure you’re looking at the last 2-3 months. This ensures you’re getting recent good or bad homeowner experiences. You can pull a lot of information from reviews that tell you if a roofing contractor does quality work. That’s not to say all the reviews you read are accurate. Some people go to the extreme one way or the other. However, if a roofing company stands behind their work, interacts positively with customers, and does things the right way, then more than likely it’ll show in their reviews. 7. Ask for references when meeting with roofing contractors When meeting with potential roofing contractors, it’s crucial to ask for references. Ask every contractor that gives you an estimate to provide you with references from jobs completed in the past 3 to 6 months. A reputable roofing contractor will be happy to give you these references when you ask for them. But if they’re not willing to give you references, don’t even think about investing in your new roof with them. To learn more about why you should get references from a roofing contractor, read this article on 3 reasons to get references for your roof replacement. Get your free checklist of questions to ask potential roofing contractors Now you know the 7 tips to find a great roofer in your area. Remember, hiring the right contractor is crucial to every aspect of your roofing project. While these 7 tips are great for finding one, you still need to ask the right questions when meeting with potential roofing contractors. That’s why you need your free checklist of Questions to Ask a Roofing Contractor. The 16 question checklist gives you all the questions all homeowners need to ask when sitting down or meeting with a potential roofing company. Not only does the checklist give you the questions you should ask, but it also gives you the answers to look for. With it, you’ll have the power to make the right hiring decision for you and your roof investment. So, what are you waiting for? Keep going to get your free checklist of Questions to Ask a Roofing Contractor. The team at Bill Ragan has proudly served the residents of Nashville and surrounding areas since 1990. Whether you need roof repairs, a roof replacement, skylights, maintenance, or help with your insurance claim, you can count on us. If you’re local to Nashville or a surrounding area, don’t hesitate to contact us for any of your roofing needs.

Blog 0 8 min read

October 21, 2021

8 Tips for Roofing Preventive Maintenance Inspections

Use this tip sheet to assess and inspection your roof to identify the level of preventive maintenance your roof may require. 1. Remove all debris. Debris such as loose gravel, dirt, leaves, and twigs should be removed. These materials can retain water if left on the roof. The constant moisture can cause damage to the roof, promote growth of algae and mold, and cause standing water to form. 2. Clear drains. Field drains and auxiliary drains should be cleared to prevent ponding that may cause leaks or structural damage. 3. Inspect the roof surface. Perform a visual inspection of the roof system. On single-ply roofs, inspect for holes, cracks, or fastener back-out. On built-up roofs, look for areas with missing gravel or exposed felts. Inspect roof seams and transitions for cracks or holes and have them sealed. This inspection may raise questions about the integrity of the roof membrane that justify a professional examination. 4. Inspect roof penetrations. Roof penetrations include pipes, drains, and other components that protrude through the roof surface. Roof penetrations are highly susceptible to leaks. It is very important to examine HVAC units, conduits, vents, gas lines, rain collars, and pipe boots. If that a roof penetration is leaking or damaged, the problem should be professionally diagnosed and repaired. 5. Evaluate rooftop perimeter. Walk the roof perimeter to inspect the edge details and note any areas of concern, including soft spots, mold, or algae. Inspect the flashing at walls and curbs for any punctures or damage. 6. Inspect the sealant. Keep an eye out for sealant or caulking issues such as cracking, openings, deterioration, or crazing. Sealant failures are often found around penetrations and perimeter flashings. Sealant requires regular inspection and often has to be repaired. 7. Prevent leaks before they start. A roof inspection may reveal areas of deterioration that will require repair. Repairing these small defects before they become major issues will save thousands of dollars down the road. If the damage is beyond the facility staff skill set, or you are uncertain of the proper repair, contact a professional. 8. Perform additional investigations. If the areas of deterioration require additional investigation, consider destructive testing, which requires making an opening for closer inspection, or non-destructive testing, such as infrared scanning, to determine the severity of the issue.

Blog 0 1 min read

October 5, 2021

Roles and Responsibilities of a Building Contractor

In any construction project, there are three main parties involved: the owner or client, the management team, and the contractor. The building contractor plans and coordinates construction activities, and must complete the project within the established time and budget. Contractors are responsible for the entire construction process, and must determine the best methods to finish the project as specified. General Responsibilities of a Building Contractor In general terms, a contractor is responsible for planning, leading, executing, supervising and inspecting a building construction project. The responsibility extends from the beginning to the end of the project, regardless of its scope. Contractors accomplish their duties by planning activities, supervising workers, and ensuring the project follows local codes and laws. A contractor may hire subcontractors for specialized areas, such as electrical installations and HVAC systems. Specific Roles and Duties of a Building Contractor As mentioned before, a building contractor has multiple responsibilities, which may vary depending on the contract. There are many roles a contractor can assume during different stages of a project, and this section covers the most common ones. Project Planning Every project has a master schedule that describes all activities, along with their time distribution and planned budget. This schedule has a completion date that contractors must meet, and hefty penalties normally apply for missing the deadline. A late completion can only be justified if the project was delayed by external factors beyond the contractor’s control, such as extreme weather. The first duty of a building contractor is creating a project plan to deliver it on time. Some responsibilities include: Planning all crucial project development and implementation details. Determining the construction equipment and material requirements, and planning their procurement.Predicting possible changes and creating risk mitigation strategies.Meeting any legal and regulatory issues. Establishing effective communication among all project participants. The building contractor must establish a budget for the construction project, and follow it as closely as possible. The budget is a useful tool to track project costs, since contractors can detect waste by comparing their actual expenses with the planned budget. Project Management The contractor needs to complete the project on time, and this involves many construction management activities: Ensuring funds are available to keep the project movingPurchasing materials with enough anticipation for them to reach the site when neededPurchasing or renting the construction equipment required for the projectInterviewing and hiring subcontractors to complete specialized workCreating progress reports to justify intermediate payments Building contractors are also responsible for their personnel, making sure their staff has the right size and technical skills. Contractors also manage payroll for their own employees, and subcontractor payments. Project Tracking Project tracking is fundamental to complete the work according to contract specifications and schedules. In addition to tracking progress, contractors must prevent disruption. This involves several complementary activities: Quality controlUsing cost-effective construction methodsEnsuring a constant supply of materials, and scheduling purchases well in advanceConstruction site safety During the construction process, the building contractor is responsible for tracking progress and managing any necessary changes. Of course, contractors must always have the project scope, time and budget in mind when making decisions. Legal and Regulatory Issues Contractors have a handful of responsibilities in terms of legal and regulatory issues. They must acquire all the necessary permits and licenses before starting the project, while covering any fees and taxes that apply. Also, the entire construction process must follow local legislation and building codes. Being unaware of legal requirements is not a valid excuse in construction projects, which means that contractors must have updated knowledge. With the right construction permits and contractor licenses, the project can progress without disruption. Health and Safety Issues The contractor must guarantee health and safety in the construction site, by implementing adequate procedures and raising awareness among workers. The contractor is also responsible for the proper operation of equipment and preventing any accidents from misuse. The contractor deals with any emergencies and unforeseen issues at the project site, and must report them to the client’s supervision staff. Conclusion Building contractors have many roles during the different stages of construction, and each role comes with different responsibilities. Contractors should be capable of managing uncertainty and taking decisions on a daily basis. The track record of a contractor is also very important since those with ample experience can respond better to common issues in projects.

Blog 0 3 min read

September 16, 2021

Expert Tips To Help You Prepare Your Roof For Winter

The falling leaves and cooler weather are two subtle signs that winter is coming. You pull out your snow boots, break out the festive decor, and rake the leaves before a snowfall to ensure that your home and family are ready for winter, but one thing that needs to be prioritized is winterizing your roof. Your roof is the barrier that stands between your family and the harsh weather, so you want to make sure that it is functioning well and able to keep you warm and cozy all winter long. Taking a few simple steps to avoid winter roofing problems before the cold weather sets in will help your roof withstand the coming storms, and give you confidence that your home will remain safe and dry in the coming months. Check Your Roofline The first step you should take when you begin preparing your roof for winter is to look at your roofline. Your rooflines should be straight, so any signs of dipping, curving, or sagging are signs that you need to investigate. A sagging roofline can be caused by framing issues or by a saturated roof deck. During the winter season, roofs are exposed to heavy rain and snowfall that can stress the roof, worsen sagging, and even lead to a cave-in. A sagging roof isn’t an immediate cause of concern on its own and is most likely structurally okay. But if it is accompanied by a leak or other signs of deterioration, a repair may be necessary. Check Chimney Flashing For Leaks The next place you’ll want to inspect is the chimney. Chimney flashing is the strip of metal that seals the intersection of the chimney and your roof, and is one of the most common spots for roof leaks to develop. Leaky flashing can often be mistaken for a leaky roof. Check to make sure your flashing doesn’t appear to be loose or damaged, and that the caulk holding it in place hasn’t cracked or deteriorated. Also make sure to look for any signs of water intrusion near the chimney. Check The Attic For Signs Of Water Damage Once you’ve checked on your chimney, head up to your attic, because in many cases, the first signs of a leaky roof can be seen there. Signs of a leak include water spots on the walls, wet roof decking, and puddles of water on the attic floor. If you discover any evidence of water damage in your roofing system, schedule a professional roof inspection so that you can get your roof back into top condition before the winter storms arrive. Remove Debris After you inspect your roof, you should move into the cleaning phase. It is common for leaves, twigs, and other debris to accumulate on your roof during the fall season, but if that debris is left on your roof all winter, the piles will become waterlogged, leaving your roof susceptible to water damage beneath the soggy mess. You can safely remove the debris with a leaf blower, or with your hands. Clean Out Your Gutters Just like the roof, gutters are catch-alls for leaves, sticks and other debris. Make sure to clean them out completely in order to prevent clogs, and allow snowmelt and rainwater to drain off your roof properly in the coming months. Trim Low Hanging Branches Winterizing your roof also involves preparing the trees near your home. Trees with low-hanging branches near your roof are a particular threat in the winter season. During a storm, snow and ice can build up on these branches and cause them to snap under the additional weight and land on your roof. Trimming or removing these branches will eliminate the risk of branch related damage all winter long. If the branches extend over your roof, it may be risky to remove them yourself. In this case, call a professional arborist to help with the job and ensure that your roof is safe during the process. Get Your Roof Professionally Inspected Roof damage can go from needing a simple repair to requiring a total roof replacement very quickly, so if you have any concerns about your roof, schedule a professional roof inspectionA professional inspection will bring to light any existing problems with your roof that aren’t visible to an untrained eye. If a leak or other issue is identified, scheduling the repairs before winter storms come in full force will ensure that your roof is prepared to handle the coming rain, snow, ice, and wind. Cenvar Roofing Can Help With Your Winter Roofing Needs Winterizing your roof is a necessary step to take, but it doesn’t guarantee that your roof won’t be affected by snow and ice throughout the winter. Keep an eye out for signs of roof damage, especially after heavy storms so that you can take care of it as soon as possible, and hopefully avoid the need for more extensive repairs later on. If you find yourself in need of a professional roofing company this winter, we’d be happy to provide our services. Our expert roofers are highly qualified and trained to identify all kinds of roof damage and conduct necessary repairs. Schedule your free estimate today to start the process!

Blog 0 4 min read

September 3, 2021

How Often Should You Replace Your Roof?

Sadly, an often-ignored part of the house is the roof. Unless it starts to leak or break apart, you probably won’t notice what’s going on up there. However, regular inspection for potential problems is recommended twice a year according to the National Roofing Contractors Association. If you are afraid of heights, see if a family member or friend can help. Otherwise, a local roofing contractor can conduct an inspection. Look for: Loose, cracked or damaged shinglesMissing shinglesSaggingMold or rotSigns of water damage or leakingHoles or dark spots Hopefully, a bi-annual inspection will catch small problems before a leak develops or a larger section of the roof fails. It is important to maintain the roof and conduct regular visual checks. Better to pay for a small repair than deal with a roof collapse and extensive damage. The underlying structure should last the lifespan of the house. However, depending on the materials used for the covering of the roof, a full replacement is necessary. Unless the roof is made of concrete, then it just needs inspections for cracks or other wear. Tile roofs are also very durable and rarely need a full replacement. In general, this is the recommended replacement schedule based on the material used: Composition Shingles: 12-20 yearsAsphalt Shingles: 15-30 yearsWood Shingles: 20-25 yearsRubber Roofs: 30-50 yearsMetal Roofs: 50-75 years These suggested time frames will vary depending on the climate that the roof is exposed to. Severe winters and humidity may wear out the materials more quickly. After a severe storm or high winds, it is good to get on the roof and check for any damage. The roof is essential protection for your home and possessions so stay on top of it, so make sure it is structurally sound. If you’re looking for a professional roof inspector, contact our roofing replacement contractors at RoofAdvisor today to ensure your roof performing at its peak!

Blog 0 1 min read

August 25, 2021

When To Fix Your Roof And The Average Cost Of Repairs

There will come a time when a roof repair in Toronto is an absolute necessity. It stands to reason that a roof repair by Toronto roofing companies is the considered position for any building operator or homeowner. Roof repairs can be a costly expense if you let them linger, so getting out front of the problem upon discovery is the best way to solve the problem in its infancy. Let’s look at the advantages that come to the fore when a roof repair is made. And how it protects your investment in the building that is being repaired. Signs Your Roof Needs Immediate Repair Some signals are evident when you need a roof repair, and you can see them if you know what to look for. A visual roof inspection will lay bare the problems simply to the homeowner, property manager, or roofing consultant. Water is the greatest threat to any roofing system. When you see water stains present on the top or inside the roof, you know there is a leak. If you see mould growing outside or inside the roof, you have a leak.Shingles are the cover for the roofing system, and when they degrade, problems arise. If you see your shingles are curling, cracking or no longer on the roof, you need to act quickly to prevent further damage from occurring.Flashing is an extremely important feature for a roofing system, and when it is rusting, it means you need to act quickly to replace it and keep water out.Moss and algae grow in environments where water is plentiful. If you see the little green clumps affixed to your roof, you know that the water isn’t draining from the roof as it should, and it leads to other problems.A sagging roof means that your trusses or rafters have been saturated by water and are now failing in their primary function to hold the roof up.Remember, age factors into the equation, and if your roof is over 20 years old, you might want to replace it with a more updated roofing system. Why Leaks Require Immediate Repairs Deterioration of the Roof When your roof is impacted by rain and snow for many seasons, it will rot and see mould form when the roof can’t dry properly. Once the structural integrity of the roof is compromised, a dangerous situation comes into play. A roof collapse is the result when the trusses and rafters can’t support the roof’s load, which puts you and your tenants in danger when it happens. Damage To Other Parts of the Building Water will find a way to invade your walls and ceilings once it has breached the roof. Furniture, insulation and electrical systems will be in jeopardy when water flows freely through the walls. Fire and biohazards are just the start of the damage done, and in the end, a monumental repair will be waiting for you when you don’t prosecute roof leaks. Respiratory And Other Health Problems When mould is allowed to grow in the walls and roof of your home, it emits bacteria that can be extremely harmful to children and adults alike. Asthma is one problem that will be exacerbated when exposed to mould, and that creates health problems that can be avoided when proper care is taken to repair roof problems. Security Is an Issue. Once the roof is breached, your home is open to intruders like pests and vermin, which cause threats to the inhabitants’ health and well-being. Repairs Cause Inconvenience A roof repair can be a day’s long ordeal in some cases – minor repairs require easy maintenance, but if you have neglected your roof, it could be a significant issue. The impact on your budget from an energy standpoint could be prohibitive, and your comfort level will undoubtedly be affected too. The Factors That Determine the Cost of A Roof Repair Depending on the degree and type of restoration required, a roof repair project can be time-consuming and expensive. Most roof repair contractors give a free estimate to help you get a clear picture of what exactly needs to be examined, repaired, or replaced. Understanding the factors involved in repairing a roof can help you be better prepared to determine the budget. The Type of Roof You Have There are many types of roofing systems. From the flat to the low-sloped, a pitched roof, shingled or metal roof systems all come with unique characteristics for each roofing system. Combined with the roof type, the materials involved in repairing the roof and labour are determining factors to the restoration of the roof. Permits Local regulatory bodies can push up the costs of a roof repair when the contractor needs to obtain a permit to affect a repair. Depending on local pricing, a roof repair permit could be priced on the size of the roof or be a flat rate, but one thing is certain the costs are amplified when accounting for local regulations. Size Or Scope of The Repair If you need a major roof repair, count on a significant financial outlay to complete the work. A contractor must determine the size and scope of the work before an estimate can be written, and in most cases, the square footage of the roof will be the determining factor for the work. Water Damage The invisible problem will reveal itself once the contractor and his crew go to work. Once the shingles and the decking are removed, a homeowner will know the true extent of water damage, and that can add thousands of dollars to the cost of a roof repair. Regular roof inspections can help prevent this problem from getting worse, and a little sweat equity – through a visual inspection – will go a long way to saving money on roof repairs in the long run. Skylights And Chimneys Pose A Problem. When you have breached your roof for any reason, it can lead to water leaks. Additions like a skylight or a chimney can be the fatal flaw in your roofing system once the water has penetrated the area where they are installed. Trust The Experts When you have roofing problems plaguing your home, there is only one solution in the Greater Toronto Area: Integrity Roofers – it isn’t just our name; it is our brand. For more than 20 years, we have provided expert roofing service backstopped by quality workmanship and attention to detail. We don’t fix symptoms; we treat problems that afflict your roof. Before we provide our expert advice and solutions, we take a detailed review of your roofing system that combines digital evidence with years of experience to determine your best course of action. For a no-cost consultation and free estimate, reach out to our office today at Integrity Roofers at 647.953.9365.

Blog 0 5 min read

August 16, 2021

When Is the Best Time of Year to Replace My Roof?

While roofing contractors work year-round to install and repair roofs, and a high quality roofer will guarantee the same standards of work regardless of the season, the weather and temperature at the time of a roof replacement can impact on how easy the process is, and how much it will cost. To help you get to grips with the best time of year to replace your roof, we’ve got all the information you need on how the season affects the workmanship of a roof replacement, and when’s the most convenient time to book in your service. The seasons; a summary Spring is a fairly steady time of year for roofing contractors, and the middling spring weather poses no problems for roof replacements. This is often a very good time to book your roof replacement. Summer tends to be a quieter, off-peak period when it comes to roof replacements. Usually the summer weather is much less volatile than the windy and wet autumn months, so roofing problems aren’t as apparent and, therefore, fewer homeowners require the services of a roofing contractor. Autumn is the peak time for roofing replacements, with many families opting for their roof to be repaired now in preparation for the cold snap. Autumn is usually very busy, so you will need to schedule in your roof replacement very early on to ensure that your chosen contractor can fit you in. Winter is not a recommended time for shingle roof replacements, as the low temperatures can cause materials to freeze or harden and then crack under the pressure of a nail or tool. For tiles and other more reliable materials, replacements can be carried out in winter, but be warned that roofing contractors are often in high demand to carry out emergency repairs during this time. What season is right for me? Every homeowner has different priorities when it comes to their roofing concerns, with some looking for a bargain price, while others are more concerned with the ease of service. Here we’ve got the best season for each concern: To get the best price… Avoid peak times such as autumn if you’re looking for a discounted price. To get the best deal, look into booking your roof replacement in summer, when your roofing contractor hasn’t as much work on and may be able to offer you a lower price. For a quick service… If you are looking for a quick, efficient and fuss-free service, we’d recommend that you avoid choosing to have your roof replacement in autumn or winter, as it is likely that your roofing contractor will be inundated with work and may not be able to offer the streamlined service that you’re looking for. Instead, opt for a spring or summer replacement and avoid the rush. To prepare for harsh weather… Winter is the most volatile weather your roof will have to endure, so if you’re worried your current system won’t withstand the conditions, make sure to have your roof repaired in autumn. Winter: Is it ever worthwhile? As we’ve previously mentioned, working with some materials, such as shingles, isn’t really feasible in winter, especially not if you want good results. However, if you discuss this with your roofing contractor and choose a more suitable material, there is no reason why you should cry off your roof replacement just because it is winter. In fact, if your roof is in particularly bad condition, you should make replacing your roof a priority to prevent the damage from worsening. Contact us for more information.

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July 23, 2021

The 5 Best Roofing Alternatives

Not all roofs have to be the same. The market has so many great options that you might want to rethink what you are proposing and consider an alternative roofing material. Many lesser-known options can outlast asphalt shingles and other conventional materials, and some can even lower your electric bill! And if you’re planning a low-slope roof, chances are that shingles won’t work anyway. Contact us for more information. Stone-Coated Metal Stone-coated metal roofing, or stone-coated steel roofing, has a deep, architectural profile and can mimic the look of asphalt shingles, wood shakes, or clay tiles. This premium roofing material comes with warranties up to 50 years and is rated highly for resistance to winds, hail, and fire. It is made with corrosion-resistant metal coated with crushed granite that is permanently bonded to the metal. The granite coating is not designed to slough off over time, as with the mineral coating on asphalt shingles. Stone-coated metal roofing typically is installed over wood strips, or battens, that create air channels between the roof deck and the roofing. These air spaces serve as insulation to help keep the roof deck cooler in summer and help minimize ice dams in winter. Built-Up Roofing Built-up roofing is the most popular roofing material used on low-sloped roofs. Made of several layers of bitumen surfaces, built-up roofing is finished by applying an aggregate layer or coating as the top layer. This top layer normally is tar, over which the gravel is laid. Types of built-up roofs include smooth asphalt (either hot or cold) and ballasted asphalt. All types generally comprise four parts: decking, insulation, ply sheets (reinforcing fabrics), and one or more surfacing materials. The layers are bonded together with asphalt (tar) or other bitumen material. The type of surface coating used can have a significant impact on the cost and durability of the roof. Most built-up roofs installed today include a layer of rigid insulation for energy performance. The ply sheets are commonly reinforced with fiberglass mats or organic mats, depending on their application. Solar Shingles Solar shingles offer an alternative to conventional rooftop solar panels, while also serving as a roofing material. While early versions of solar shingles and other solar roofing products used flexible “thin-film” solar technology, today’s solar shingles typically are made with rigid materials, such as tempered glass. This makes them look and perform more like conventional shingles, and most can be installed similarly to shingles and without special installation crews. Of course, the greatest benefit of solar shingles is that they create electricity during daylight hours. As a result, roofing starts paying for itself from the day it is installed and over the entire lifetime of the system. It’s the only roofing material that offers a financial return on your investment. Single-Ply Roofing Single-ply roofing is a popular option for commercial buildings and can be used on any slope of roof. There are two main types of single-ply roofing: thermoset and thermoplastic. Thermoset membranes are made with layers of synthetic rubber polymers, such as EPDM, CSPE, and Neoprene. They are commonly used for large roof areas because their large size minimizes the number of seams. Thermoplastic single-ply membranes often are hot-air welded together to form cohesive laps. When the thermoplastic material cools, it returns to its original state, forming a permanent bond. Thermoplastic membranes typically include a reinforcing layer of polyester or fiberglass for strength and stability. Standing Seam Roofing Standing seam roofing is a type of metal roofing made up of vertical panels with two seams per panel that stand up vertically. They offer a more finished appearance and better durability than traditional corrugated metal roofing. Standing seam roofing is commonly available in galvanized steel, Galvalume, and copper materials. Standing seam panels are installed over standard plywood roof decking and an approved underlayment, such as ice-and-water shield. The panels are typically 12 to 24 inches wide and run parallel to the slope of the roof.

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July 12, 2021

Roofing Tips For First-Time Homeowners

Roofing Tip #1: Spring Clean Your Roof Don’t just spring clean the inside of your house! Making sure that your roof is free of debris is essential. Fall, winter, and, spring can wreak havoc with mountains of leaves, snowstorms blowing down branches, not to mention bomb cyclones carrying shingles off to Oz. Cleaning your roof is important. If your pitch is low enough, you may be able to handle that task on your own, but keep in mind, that roof is a lot higher than you think. Not to mention, shingles and other roofing material can be very slippery when damp, so if you attempt to remove branches and leaves on your own, wait until it is good and dry. When you are getting the leaves off your roof, make sure and sweep in a downward motion and make sure that you are secure on your ladder or scaffolding. Roofing Tip #2: Gut Your Gutters Full gutters are a huge factor in leaks and roof damage, so making sure those are clean after the fall colors have faded is equally important. Likewise, gutters may end up pulling away from your house and in the long run, will lead to water running down into your foundation. Before those April showers and for your own peace of mind, you might schedule a standing appointment with a roofer at the end of a long winter to give your gutters and roof some spring cleaning. At the very least, get an estimate. It might just be worth your time and your money to let someone else handle sweeping the roof and cleaning the gutters. Roofing Tip #3: Roof Mold, Moss & Algae Other types of debris that are common in areas where lots of trees grow, like Michigan where I live, are mold, moss, and algae. Allowing these to continue to grow on your roof will shorten the longevity of your roof and allow water to pool which is never a good thing. You don’t want to use a power-washer nor do you want to use a stiff bristled brush or broom because it will damage your shingles and will shorten their life. Find a good cleaner for moss and use it to kill the moss before sweeping it off, or better yet, call someone and have your roofer do that dirty job for you. Roofing Tip #4: Inspect Your Attic After you have checked your roof on the outside, make sure and periodically check the inside of your roof. If your roof has any leaks or damage, sometimes the easiest way to spot it is from the interior. Check out your attic spaces for any water damage, the smell of mildew or mold, and any visible signs of light from any small holes in the roof. Include this task with your monthly or bi-monthly to do list. Roofing Tip #5: Go Looking For Trouble One of the most troublesome areas in roofing, along with the gutters, is the chimney. The chimney often has flashing around it and roofing materials butted up against it as well. Checking to make sure the flashing and shingles are up tight against the chimney and waterproof is an important part of roof maintenance. Because of the height of most chimneys, this might be something you will want to leave up to the professionals. Roofing Tip #6: Look For Small Aesthetic Flaws In Your Roof When you are inspecting your roof, you need to look for small superficial flaws that can lead to huge, costly issues. Look for shingles that are bald. Also, be on the lookout for any nails that have come up and that are protruding. A good pair of binoculars is not a bad tool to have when examining your roof. Keeping your roof on your mind is an important part of being a homeowner, but it doesn’t have to be an all-consuming or daunting task. Put it on your calendar and keep these tips handy as you do your inspections. If your roof needs some upkeep, then you have another decision to make. If you decide to do the maintenance on your roof yourself, please take all the safety precautions you can. When choosing a professional, make sure you have a reputable contractor. Check with vetting agencies, like ImproveNet and get recommendations. Roof repairs are important, so you want the best to help you avoid any large costs in the future. An ounce of prevention not only keeps the doctor away, but it will keep your roof looking good and functioning at its best because we all know, there really is, “no place like home.”

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