A roof valley is a meting point of changing slopes of a roof. The name comes from the valley-like look, which protects the roof from rain and snow, and reduces debris buildup.
The roof valley helps the roof slope drain water and reduces snow and ice accumulation on roof liners; thus, roof water drainage remains unimpeded. In addition to reducing the accumulation of water on the roof, this system also enhances the overall look and feel of the home.
What is a dead valley on a roof? This is simply the intersection of two roof slopes to form a valley where water cannot be drained effectively. There is more to this question which is further discussed in this article.
A section of a roof where two or more angles meet in the same spot is termed a "pitch point." If you have a complex roof with numerous pitches, dead valleys are inevitable and must be adequately safeguarded and carefully maintained.
Good home designers that understand roofing design and water movement tend to avoid leaving dead valleys, which might later cause difficulties, in their plans. When this is missed, it becomes the obligation of a trained roofing firm to discover and protect these vulnerable locations.
At the place where opposing roof slopes meet, water can flow easily down the roof through a trough formed by the intersection. The slope of a valley is usually the same as the slope of the roof as a whole.
As a result of the roof's layout, water can flow directly into these pitch spots, which often have inadequate or no drainage due to the structure's design. When two or more opposing roof slopes meet in a dead valley, there is little or no fall, which can lead to the accumulation of water and other debris.
It's normally not a big deal because the water drains quickly, but in the case of a dead valley, water cannot drain away because of the valley's extreme flatness. It can also happen when a piece of your roof meets an exterior wall that is lower than the rest of the roof.
If you don't take adequate care of a dead valley, you could end up with leaks and other major roof damage. However, we've put together this guide so that you can simply fix a dead valley roof in advance of issues arising.
Not all roofs and watersheds are treated equally by home builders and designers. A dead valley is a region on a roofing system where water cannot easily run down the roof because of the junction of two slopes or a slope with a wall.
There are two types of dead valleys: The first is when a normal valley flows into a flat wall corner instead of right off the roof, and the other is as a result of two or more slopes merging into one.
Any low-sloping roof should employ materials that can withstand gradual water runoff without early deterioration, just like any other low-sloped roof. Roofing contractors frequently shingle over these sections without the correct underlayment, which can cost homeowners hundreds of dollars in repairs.
Use a selected low-slope material the first time around to ensure your safety. There is an upfront investment, but it is necessary for your roof's longevity.
Dead valleys have water and debris have nowhere to go resulting in impeded or nonexistent proper drainage. Debris and water in that location can degrade the wood and shingles, resulting in costly repairs in the long run.
There is a serious problem with dead valleys on any roof since they are prone to accumulating rainwater, snow, leaves, and other debris. As the roofing material ages or begins to disintegrate, stored debris and water will eventually seep through the shingles and cause leaks.
As time goes on, dead valleys become a problem area for roof services, as leaking spreads to other areas of the roof, and the roof structure beneath the shingles begins to decay. When damage is severe and has continued for an extended period of time, it may be necessary to replace the roof and adjoining structural components.
Even if it is possible to fix a dead valley, if it is not done early enough or in the wrong way, it can still become a problem; your roof's lifespan will be significantly reduced if you don't fix the dead valley.
Builders and roofers frequently utilize the "solution" of running a bundle of shingles and felt paper down in an area with little to no slope. Despite what they believe, this will not endure long because using a shoddy solution like this will get you a leak in this area within three to five years.
False solutions like these have the potential to inflict significant harm. These are only a few examples:
1. Excessive roof leaks
Dead valley leaks are, of course, a major concern for everyone, and more and more leaks coming from your roof may indicate the presence of an undiscovered dead valley. Unless there is a leak, most homeowners have no idea they have a dead valley roof until it is discovered, and as long as a leak has been discovered, it doesn't mean that your dead valley problem is beyond repair.
It is possible to prevent your roof from water pooling and further damage by installing membranes and other solutions during the course of roof repairs.
2. Water and debris pooling on the roof
When it comes to leaking roofs, it's easy to see that stagnant water is the most typical culprit though this isn't the only drawback. There are various problems that pooling water creates.
In reality, bugs are drawn to stagnant water and trash in many different ways. Rooftop puddles attract mosquitoes because they provide ideal nesting conditions for the insects, and in addition, cockroaches and termites will be more likely to start nesting in your home if water seeps through the roof.
For drinking and nest-building purposes, it's a perfect area for them to go. The trash that accumulates can also be useful to other critters, which may worsen the condition of the roof.
Apart from the fact that it can lead to expensive repairs, standing water can also establish entire ecosystems that should be kept away from the property.
3. Ice and water dams
Even in situations where pooled water appears to be flowing, ice dams can inflict significant damage to a home and be a major source of leaks. To make matters worse, the presence of ice dams can lead to the creation of dead valleys where there were none before.
An ice dam forms along the roof's edge, thus preventing melting snow from properly draining off the side. Mold and mildew growth can be exacerbated as a result.
In addition, the repeated freezing and thawing of ice can lead to a wide range of physical damage, such as extensive cracking of the roof and also blistering and peeling of interior paint.
Keeping your home safe from the dangers of ice dams requires the necessary water and ice precautions to be in place.
4. Moss and Rot
Unwanted vegetation growth can find its way into even the smallest cracks and crevices in the roof, posing a serious threat. A roof that has moss, algae, or weeds growing on it is less likely to be water-resistant, which makes it more vulnerable to harm.
When it comes to roof membranes, these roots can break them apart, and a negative feedback loop can be created by allowing more water to accumulate, which in turn attracts more pests.
Water flows downhill by nature, and in most cases, rainwater flows down the gutters and away from the house. Leaves, twigs, and other debris that hold water make for an expensive roof repair in a dead valley since there is nowhere else for the water to go.
Though dead valleys might be unavoidable owing to a home's architecture, they don't have to be damaged areas that require a partial roof repair. The felt paper and shingles you'd use in a dead valley will eventually wear out from exposure to the sun, so you should expect a leak within three to five years.
Applying a modified bitumen treatment and other waterproofing methods will help prevent water from accessing the framing and causing leaks and damage.
If you want to avoid leaks and other problems caused by dead valleys on your roof, you should hire a certified roofing company with experience in this area. Your roofer is the one responsible for making the necessary repairs as many inexperienced roofers may just shingle over the region even though a dead valley requires special attention.
1. Put up an ice and water barrier
It has become customary to install an ice and water membrane and to use high-grade metal products that are custom-made to fit your application to create waterproofing on vulnerable areas of a roof.
Roof underlayment membranes are designed to prevent ice and water damage to places that are particularly prone to it, such as roof valleys. Polymer-modified bitumen is used to make ice and water protectors (also known as ice and snow shields in cold areas).
Underlayments such as roofing felt can be placed after the ice and water barrier has been put in. In addition to protecting against ice dams, the ice and water shield can also protect against rain pushed by high winds.
2. Use PVC, modified bitumen or TPO
Modified bitumen is a tough-yet-flexible waterproof membrane created by mixing asphalt with polymerized rubber or plastic and then reinforcing the mixture with fiberglass. It is an asphalt-based roofing system that offers several layers to provide leak resistance and requires minimal roof maintenance.
The rip and puncture resistance of modified bitumen outweighs that of TPO when it comes to waterproofing. There are many advantages of using modified bitumen roofing over TPO, such as its ease of repair or replacement in the event of membrane damage.
In some regions, high-quality modified bitumen is also utilized to help prevent leaks or seepage and increase water flow, as well.
As a result, it is a very adaptable solution to this widespread roofing issue, whether applied to the entire roof or only to dead valleys in specific places.
In general, TPO roll roofing is less expensive to purchase and install, but it lacks the long-lasting aesthetic of modified bitumen roofing. Leak-resistant membranes made from PVC and TPO are commonly used for waterproofing.
Thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) is white and aids in both water drainage and heat reflection off the roof. This reduces the temperature inside the space while also preventing leaks.
PVC functions in a similar manner but is more durable and rigid than TPO.
In order for waterproofing systems to perform properly, additional drainage systems must be installed to help prevent pooling and also divert water away from the roof. It is critical that any membrane roofing you purchase comes from a trustworthy source, as the quality of these products can vary greatly.
3. Install a custom-made metal flashing
A custom-made metal flashing is probably the best solution for roof problems such as a dead valley. Installing a metal flashing can help to seal the leakage and slope the water off of the roof.
These are especially handy in dead valley corners, where water floods in the corner instead of draining off the roof. The flashing ensures that the seal will be perfect, preventing any water from spilling through though this can be an expensive and time-consuming process.
4. Have a well-designed valley
Most roofing contractors shingle over a dead valley without the necessary waterproofing steps. A dead valley roof doesn't have to be a problem, but unfortunately, many builders/roofers don't know how to deal with them, and it can lead to major water damage.
Architects are creating beautiful modern homes but don't really understand how water traffics. They build homes where water from different areas of the roof goes down into a pinch point, causing a dead valley.
By properly constructing a dead valley, the major problems can be avoided.
When a valley terminates on tile rather than the edge of a roof, it causes the most trouble. While a dead valley may appear to be a problem at first, it can survive as long as any other area of the roof with correct installation and upkeep.
Almost every roof has some sort of valley in it, and for a tile roof, an issue that may arise is when the amount and/or speed of water pouring out of the valley causes the water to splash or seep under the tile. If the end of the valley is positioned incorrectly, water will pool on the underlayment rather than on top of the tile.
Continuous accumulation of water makes the underlayment too wet. Typically, this problem will not lead to a leak right away but rather over time.
When a leak like this happens, the plywood base will have to be replaced because it will have been compromised by the leak. Installing flashing at the end of a valley helps the hard galvanized steel valley metal mold with the tile, and this type of leak may be readily prevented.
When checking for leaks, flooding of the roof can be done to establish where the leak is coming from if the water drains off. The roof has to be completely cleared of debris first to reveal any hidden areas of damage.
Any compromised shingles or tiles will have to be replaced. Before this happens, the area of damage or leakage should be stripped bare to the roofing deck.
When water bypasses the roofing underlayment, it can wet the roof deck damaging the plywood, and this can lead to rot and insect infestation. Damaged plywood sheathing has to be replaced too.
After cleaning the roof, determining the damaged area, and stripping bare the area, the new deck can be installed. The second step is to install an ice and water dam protection first, followed by the roofing underlayment.
You can follow with the flashing for an open valley or seal it for a closed valley flashing. A closed valley conceals the valley lining allowing a seamless blend of the roof slopes.
The metal flashing is installed over the underlayment but below the roof, cladding to prevent any water from seeping into the flashing of the roof.
While it may not always be feasible to prevent water and debris from building up on your roof or even ice damming, dead valley roofs should be dealt with before they become a bigger problem.
Most homeowners can't tackle repairing a dead valley on their own. Professional roofers can assess and recommend the best materials for protecting your house.
You can consult your architect when designing a new home and request that they avoid as many dead valleys as possible.
Commercial buildings are the places where business is done. Commercial buildings include office buildings, retail spaces, warehouses, and other types of structures.
Sometimes the building owners don't feel the need for commercial roof restorations even with the advice of the building manager or facility manager due to the expense or mess of commercial roof restoration. This article explains the benefits of commercial roof restorations when you go out of pocket to do them.
Repairing a tiny section of the roof is not the same as restoring the entire roof. A complete roof replacement is much more expensive and time-consuming, while a roof restoration is much cheaper and done on a smaller scale.
Commercial and industrial buildings have low-slope, single-ply or steep-slope metal roof systems. They can benefit from the building roof restoration process where liquid coatings are applied to the roof, and roofing surfaces are completely encased in a watertight, reflective and seamless coating system.
Commercial roof restoration involves more labor and calculative steps compared to a residential roof. The roofs are often huge, and therefore the restoration is carefully done on a small scale over a large area to ensure that the huge roof is completely restored.
These are some of the steps taken during a roof restoration:
1. Inspection
Restoration all begins with a professional commercial roofing company performing an assessment of your roof. They search for evidence of leaks, such as wet insulation, mold development, and stains.
After the inspection, the roofing professional then puts together all the items and labor input and specialty required for the restoration. This is done from the inspection report to establish the extent of damage, the certain area's specialty required and the materials needed.
2. Cleaning
The cleaning comes first to start the work. The buildup of dirt and debris on the roof is removed using pressure washing, which creates a clean surface for optimal adhesion of the coating.
Cleaning up also exposes any damaged parts of the roof covered by the debris that doesn't show as damaged areas on the report.
3. Repair
Leaks and structural problems can be addressed after cleaning. Repair entails re-bedding loose layers and filling in any gaps on the roof, including repairing or replacing damaged roof cladding (damaged metal sheets, tiles or shingles)
The restorative membrane will not stick to the roof like paint, and primer is therefore sprayed on first, then the surface is prepared for sealing. The membrane coating is put on the surface, which protects your existing roof by sealing the surface.
The restoration of a commercial roof has several advantages over a complete roof replacement or none at all. It can be a great way to extend the life of your roofing system.
Despite the fact that many roofing systems are built to last for decades while still providing outstanding performance, it is possible that roof restoration will be required in the future. Roof restoration might not seem appropriate at the moment, but in most circumstances, a roof restoration is a more cost-effective alternative to a complete roof replacement.
There are plenty of things to worry about while running a business or owning a commercial building, and a faulty roof shouldn't be one of them. If you let a leaky or otherwise deteriorating roof go long without fixing it, it could mean catastrophic problems down the road, including water damage, mold, rot, and more.
To understand more about commercial roof restoration and the benefits it can provide your business take a look at the following benefits for the most economical solution for your building.
1. Less expensive than a full roof replacement
When compared to a roof repair, a roof restoration might be equally as successful in solving your concerns. Roof replacement could cost up to $26 per square foot, while roof restoration could only cost up to $9 per square foot.
Regardless of the circumstances, the expense of repairing a roof is going to be high. Commercial building owners can save more than half of the cost of roof replacement by fixing their roof instead of replacing it.
Restoring a roof requires a lot less work and resources; thus, there are no additional costs. The cost of roof restorations is substantially less than the cost of replacing the entire roof.
Many of the benefits of a new roof can be achieved at a fraction of the expense through restoration. Because the existing roof isn't torn down, this technique involves less time and effort.
A roof restoration can not only save you money and effort, but it will also help you avoid a large loss in the future. To avoid the need for a complete roof replacement, get your roof fixed sooner rather than later.
2. Saves time as it is non-disruptive and quick
A full roof replacement necessitates more effort and may disrupt the building's daily routines. Some roof restoration can even be done as other activities take place since it is done in parts.
Since the tear-off process is omitted, it minimizes the impact on your business operations below the surface. Business shutdowns are more common in tear-offs than in restoration.
A roof replacement can take more than a month, while a roof restoration can be completed up to three times faster. There is, therefore, less interruption of the commercial activities and consequently fewer losses.
3. It is an environmentally friendly solution
Installing a new roof necessitates tearing off all of the old roofing materials, and enormous quantities of materials are thrown away or wasted, resulting in a large amount of landfill debris. Roof restorations use far fewer materials than new construction because rather than taking off old materials and replacing them with new ones, the existing roof is used as much as possible.
Since this roof system extends the life of your roof, it will be years before the debris from a full replacement needs to be deposited in the landfill.
A new roof generates a large amount of waste material that must be disposed of in a landfill. When a business roof is restored, its quality and sustainability are greatly improved, and less trash goes into landfills.
This is an environmentally friendly solution. It is also significantly easier to recycle the small debris that results from roof restorations.
4. An extended roof life
When a roof is constructed, it is done so with materials and workmanship that give it a certain lifespan. You may extend the life of your roof by 10 to 15 years if you are proactive and choose roof restoration before it deteriorates beyond repair.
When a roof is restored, it is coated with a protective layer to help it withstand the environment better. Under normal ponding water and the most extreme weather conditions like rain, snow, ice, sleet, or hail, the restoration systems remain adherent to the roof surface.
Due to the advantages of the entire restoration method, the expenses of maintenance are also cheap. You'll have enough time to save up and prepare for a roof replacement in the far future if you do this.
The normal lifespan of a commercial roof is between 15 and 20 years, but a restoration job can prolong the life of your roof by up to ten years if you deal with a reputable provider and maintain the coating properly.
5. An improved building safety
The success of a business not only depends on the merchandise or services but also on the conditions in which they are provided. The aging or damaged roof on a structure might pose a serious threat to the workers, clients and any commodities.
When moisture from a little leak builds up over time, it can swiftly cause mold and structural damage.
Mold can cause serious health issues to the workers and clients, while moisture can damage the wiring system in the sublayer and induce rot in wooden structures, which compromises a building's structural stability.
In addition to putting your business in jeopardy, a structurally deficient structure can also put your customers and staff at risk and should therefore be given immediate attention.
6. Reduced energy bills
A roof is constantly exposed to adverse weather conditions, such as UV radiation and freezing temperatures, because of its huge surface area. Running their air conditioning or heating systems may be a regular occurrence in an area that experiences frequent shifts in temperature.
A damaged part of the roof might be introducing cold or hot air from the environment, reducing the efficiency of the air conditioning and, therefore, higher energy bills to counter the effect. This is the same for a roof with compromised insulation which is critical to decreasing heating and cooling costs in commercial properties.
Solar reflectivity and emissivity are two properties that roofing systems commonly have, which can help your building become more energy efficient. You've probably noticed a lot of white top-coatings on flat roofs, which is an energy-saving measure.
The highly reflecting surface of the roof may help improve the life of your heating and air-conditioning systems because it minimizes the amount of heat in the building. In the summer, the reflective white coating keeps the structure cooler by reflecting sunlight saving you a lot of money over time.
The structure can be made more energy efficient by a roof restoration which has a greater impact on energy costs than you might believe.
7. Improved Resistance from the Elements
Commercial buildings may be subjected to harsh weather conditions depending on where they are located. A damaged roof is subject to leaks which cause mold and rot formation in its structures.
The damage will progressively get worse as time goes on if your roof is already in a state of degradation. Repairing a roof's weak spots will assist prevent future damage from the weather, especially extreme weather conditions like hurricanes and thunderstorms.
You will get a highly effective roof surface like the roof's surface will be protected by a watertight membrane that can halt leaks and lessen the need for roof repairs. If any further repairs are needed, the workers will have the opportunity to make them.
A well-maintained roof will, regardless, need to be replaced eventually due to the high expense of repairs. Some of these situations require a new roof instead of repairs.
Roof restoration is the extension of a roof's lifespan by fixing any damaged parts, while roof replacement involves tearing away the old roof and putting up a new one.
Repairing your roof is important before it becomes a real problem. As your roof deteriorates on a daily basis, it is always best to take a proactive strategy.
Each roofing situation is unique, and an earlier date of restoration increases the long-term success of the roof.
Most commercial roofs come with a warranty of 10, 15, or 20 years, depending on the manufacturer. A roof that is property restored might last up to 10 more years after it is restored.
Are you looking for a roofing business in your area? Make a call to Mikku and Sons Roofing to discuss your options.
The type of roofing system you have doesn't matter; we've worked on it all: single-ply, metal, modified bitumen, and built-up. Schedule a commercial building inspection with our company today!
In addition to the material, your roof's underlayment or felt layer protects the clay or concrete from water damage, making it exceptionally long-lasting. While the tiles may survive a few decades, the underlayment replacement will need to be done every 10 to 20 years.
When it comes to roof replacement, weather and the quality of the roofing underlayment, as well as how well you maintain the roof, will all play a role in how long it takes. This is important to understand to answer the question 'How long does a tile roof last in Arizona?'
The typical lifespan of a tile roof, whether it is made of clay or concrete, is 40 to 50 years. If the circumstances are excellent, the tiles may endure nearly twice as long, but they will need to be repaired at some point.
Dry, severe heat may last for three or more months in the summer in Arizona and other areas of the Southwest, and the strain it puts on homes is exacerbated by the inevitable monsoon season and occasional frost in the winter.
It makes sense to construct something that will survive for many generations, which is why so many Arizonans select tile roofs to protect their homes, ranches, and other structures from the harsh Arizonan weather.
Tile is a popular choice for roofs in dry climates, but it also has the added benefit of lasting longer than any other roofing material. In this area, the longevity of a roof is mostly dependent on the material used to build it. In a nutshell, this means:
Arizonans love their tile roofs because they are long-lasting, attractive, and easy to maintain. For what reasons do a large number of house owners prefer to install or repair tile roofs?
In hot climates like Arizona's, both clay and cement tile do well. Also, if you live near the ocean or sea, they're a great choice.
Because they are formed in fire, ceramic and stone tiles are more durable. As a matter of fact, asphalt roofs are more vulnerable to the sun than they are to cold weather, ice, or rain.
Roofs covered with ceramic tiles are common throughout the Southwest and in coastal California and Florida because of their ability to survive such harsh temperatures.
Many may have tried the newest aluminum tumblers and glasses that keep ice cold all day. They do this by providing an air gap between the hot (outside) and cold (ice, inside) parts of the container. Roof tiles operate in much the same fashion, providing an air gap between the harsh UV rays and the pliable asphalt membrane. This air gap, with constantly circulating air, ensures that the heat dissipates quickly and prolongs the life of the roofing system.
Tile roofs, in addition to being the most heat-resistant roofing material, are also the most energy-efficient, making them an excellent choice for your home. Tiles are naturally resistant to heat, and they reflect light rather than absorb it, making them ideal for interior design.
Secondly, tiles are installed one at a time rather than in strips or sheets, allowing for natural ventilation. In this way, tiles help your HVAC system by preventing heat from moving from the roof material to the roof deck, saving you a lot of money on your energy costs.
Allowing some air movement without allowing water or anything else to get into the roof is another benefit of tiles. During Arizona's monsoon season, you may design a roof that insulates while yet enabling the home to breathe by allowing air to circulate.
Additionally, tile's fire resistance is a major selling point for homeowners, especially in arid areas where fires are becoming increasingly prevalent and more deadly.
While tile is easy to maintain, you still need to keep a close eye on it in order to ensure its long-term viability. Broken tiles and inadvertent damage are two problems that Arizona's roofs have to deal with. To keep your entire roof safe, it's imperative that you spot cracked or broken tiles right away.
When exposed to the elements, tiles can become fragile and prone to cracking. Damaged tiles reveal a felt underlayment beneath them. A few damaged tiles might ruin the underlayment's longevity and lead to leaks in the event of extreme weather conditions.
Inspecting your tile roof from the top is dangerous, so avoid doing so. Due to its fragility, you may inadvertently inflict more harm. In the same vein, only let service or repair professionals on your roof if they have experience working on tile roofs and can do it safely.
Aerial installers, window cleaners, and chimney sweeps shouldn't be allowed on your roof unless they have access platforms, roof ladders, and crawling boards to get there. They can break your tiles if they don't have the proper tools.
The lifespan of an Arizona roof might range from ten to fifty years, depending on the roof systems you have put on your home or structure. Roof tiles may last up to 50 years, shingles can last 30 years, and foam roofs can last 15 to 25 years. Here, we'll go through all the different roof systems and their lifespans in greater detail.
In the United States, Arizona ranks as one of the most sweltering states during the summer months. The lifespan of your home's roof is greatly impacted by the rate at which heat rises through it.
With proper care, high-quality roofing materials may last as long as five decades, but the harsh weather conditions can shorten their lifespan and harm your property.
How long do shingle roofs last?
One of the affordable roofing solutions on the market today is asphalt shingle roofing. Despite this, it has a lengthy lifespan and a high level of durability. In Phoenix and the surrounding area, shingle roofs can last up to 30 years on average. In addition to its thickness and cost-effectiveness, it comes with a wide range of options.
It is well-known that the density of shingles, whether they are dimensional or architectural, is remarkable. The thicker the roof, the better it is for warmer climates. It is possible for them to remain on the roof for between 10 and 30 years.
Shingles are also noted for their affordability. You won't need to remove the old shingles before installing new ones. Moreover, if you have a roof that can survive for decades, that's reasonable in terms of price. If you're looking for something that's a little more expensive, architectural shingles provide a wide variety of sizes and forms.
How long do foam roofs last?
Check the material, the installation technique, and the coating to see how long Arizona Phoenix's foam roofing will survive. Foam roofs need to be coated during installation and recoated at least once every five years after that.
In most cases, foam roofs last between 15 and 25 years, but if proper installation and recoating procedures are followed, they will last longer than that.
It's time to replace the old foam on the roof as soon as you see any cracks or holes. A foam roof would be suitable for Arizona as long as all safety measures and maintenance procedures are followed; therefore, if you ask me, I'll answer yes! It's not easy to replace a roof every twenty-five years. Page Break
How long do rubber roofs last?
The type of material used in a roof's construction determines how long it will endure in the Arizona sun. If you're thinking about EPDM as a roofing material, you might be surprised to learn that it can last for 50+ years before needing to be replaced.
The UV resistance of this rubber-like synthetic roofing material is well-known. It will not break down or crack, no matter how intense the heat or how extreme the circumstances are. It has a 300 percent increase in elasticity.
EPDM roofs have a normal lifespan of 50 years, regardless of whether they are used for industrial or home purposes. Because of its excellent tolerance to water, rain, wind, and UV radiation, it can live for many more years.
How long do metal roofs last?
Because of their excellent impact resistance, metal roofs are popular in the United States' hottest regions. In addition, they are excellent heat reflectors.
Metal roofs are the finest choice for Phoenix because of their excellent resistance to wind, rain, and UV radiation, as well as their well-known monsoon season and sandstorm.
Additionally, a well-fitted and maintained conventional metal roof may endure more than 60 years, regardless of where it is put.
Arizona metal roofs come in a variety of styles, from painted and corrugated to standing seam and stone-coated. They can last up to 50 years.
How long do concrete tile roofs last?
Slab concrete tile roofs are a wonderful choice for hot-weather areas like Blythe, Phoenix, and Tucson. Concrete roofs have a 50-year lifespan.
A longer period elapses before the heat from the sun has an effect on this type of roof, which saves money on energy costs.
Your house has a roof above it. A leaky roof has the potential to devastate your entire structure, perhaps resulting in its collapse. Whether you reside in Phoenix, Arizona, or Fairbanks, Alaska, you must be exceedingly proactive in order to ensure that your roof lasts longer than planned.
In order to do it, consider implementing the following strategies:
Ensure proper installation: do not compromise underlayment (where necessary), recoating, and a lot more.
A new tile roof may cost anywhere from $7,500 to $20,500 and is both beautiful and long-lasting. The cost of ceramic tiles may vary depending on the choices you pick, such as color, glazing, or bespoke forms.
The lifespan of an Arizona roof might range from ten to fifty years, depending on the roof systems you have put on your home or structure. Roof tiles may last up to 50 years, shingles can last 30 years, and foam roofs can last 15 to 25 years.
Tile roofs may survive for more than 50 years if installed correctly. Concrete or clay can be used to build this type of roof, with clay being a more durable alternative. However, storms, hail, and poor care can reduce the life expectancy of a tile roof by several years.
For flat roofs in Arizona, polyurethane foam roofs are the most common and extensively utilized roofing technologies. Foam roofing has several advantages: The framework of a building may expand and compress without damaging polyurethane foam. It's light, strong, and completely flawless.
Phoenix's weather may be unpredictable, as anybody who has lived here for any length of time will attest to. When a tile is laid correctly, it can resist anything from monsoon rains to the sweltering summer heat. Wind, heat, decay, and insects have little effect on the tile.
When it comes to exterior warning signs, the most obvious is the presence of damaged roof tiles. These tiles will need to be replaced if they are damaged in any of the following ways: they are cracked, decaying, buckling, ripped or otherwise damaged, worn or curled, or even loose.
Your roof will degrade with age due to exposure to the sun, wind, rain, and snow. Your roof will most likely need replacement if it's more than 20 years old.
Tile roofs are very popular among homeowners in Arizona. Not only do they offer that distinct southwestern desert look to your home, but they are also designed to withstand the heat of the harsh Arizona summers. As a result, these are very durable, but do come with their own set of issues.
One common issue is when tiles become dislodged and fall from your roof. This can indicate one of several problems, and will continue to lead into more problems if not fixed. When tiles fall off of your roof, a small portion underneath is left exposed. When it rains, this is a prime spot for leaks to develop and also allows for the surrounding tiles to lift and fall as well!
Do you live in a new home, or have you recently had a roof replacement? If so, the chances of improper installation are high! If tiles were used that are not rated for the slope of your roof, or if they were not properly secured in place, they may slip and fall.
Unlike shingles which can withstand the weight of someone walking, tiles are easily broken and will likely break or crack under you. Make sure you do not walk on your tile roof – if you have recently had someone service your roof or climb on top for something like a satellite dish installation, then there is a chance something cracked or loosened out of place.
Living in Arizona means you have to deal with intense heat through the summer. Although clay tiles can withstand extreme temperatures and light, they’re not completely immune to it. After some time, it’s worth looking to see if the elements have gotten the better of your tiles – typically clay tiles lay over gaps that could lift up during times of heavy winds, like our current monsoon season!
This may actually be easier than you would expect. The biggest thing you can do to take care of your tile roof is to avoid walking on it unless it is absolutely necessary. Monitor your roof for tiles that look like they are loosening, and if you find any, call a professional roofer to get it taken care of right away. Depending on your home warranty, tile replacements may be covered! Mikku Roofing has over 20 years of experience laying tile and will help to inspect your roof for any damages needing to be fixed. Call today or fill out an online form to get started with a free roof inspection!
With all of the potential causes of roof leaks, you tend to panic at the first sign. It may not be as bad as you think.
Most leaks just need minor repairs and aren’t indicative of your roof failing or needing to be replaced. Most of them are easily rectified, and expensive repairs or even replacements are unnecessary.
You should remedy roof leaks as soon as you find them though because it will keep your roof from the further deterioration that could lead to mold, mildew, and interior damage, as well as possibly needing to replace. There are several different ways to repair or patch a leak, such as using roofing tar on flat roofs.
If you do find a leak, you can use this list of the 7 most common causes of roof leaks in the Valley to figure out the issue and fix it before it gets worse. We also have a list of the Common Roof Problems.
If you don’t vent your attic properly, warm, moist air from below can gather and in time, condensation can build up and leak back down through your ceiling.
The number one cause of roof leaks is flashing, the thin metal sheeting around openings in your roof, that is either faulty or cracking.
Flashing doesn’t last forever and it will split or crack before you need a new roof, which is why leaks here are so common.
To fix it, you just pull up the shingles that are covering the edges of flashing, and then remove the faulty piece.
Your roofer will place a new flashing around the opening by nailing it down. Cover the nail heads with sealant and the repair is made. Then they’ll seal the nail heads and area around the opening and replace the shingles. A simple repair.
Cracked, broken, and missing shingles can cause problems. You can spot them easily and they’re not difficult to replace.
They can be cracked by hail or flying debris, or just simply wear out and start to crack. If the rest of the roof is in good shape, you can usually just replace the faulty ones.
Your roofer will lift up the shingles that cover the edges of the broken ones and remove it. Then, they place a new shingle in, nail it down and replace the shingles that were lifted up to expose it.
Vents, for gas as an example, are pipes that stick out around 2 feet over your roof. There’s a boot around the base that keeps water from getting through around the vent.
This boot, over time, will crack or split and allow moisture to get through. The roofing company will pry up the old boot and remove any nails and the adhesive holding it down. Then they slide a new boot over the vent and use caulk to seal it to the shingles.
Your gutters are there to direct water away from your roof and foundations. If they get clogged with debris they will cause water to back up and get beneath your shingles and roof underlayment.
If you have a leak that's close to a gutter, it could be caused by water backing up out of it due to debris.
To fix it, just remove whatever debris or leaves are causing the backup and get the water flowing through them smoothly again.
Your problem could be in your attic and not your roof. If you see indications of mold or mildew, you’ve probably got a condensation problem in your attic. The solution is getting attic ventilators installed that will circulate the air and keep it dry to prevent moisture and mold from getting a foothold.
The shingles on your roof could lose their protective granules over time and normal wear and tear, causing leaks. You could cause this issue yourself by doing things like retrieving items from your roof, fixing or installing things like satellite dishes, or just casually removing debris. You might need a new roof at this point.
Don’t go up on your roof any more than you absolutely have to, because these types of leaks are the kind that most often lead to replacement. You’ll need a roofing contractor to come out and inspect your roof to determine if this is your problem.
When you have a leak, the tendency is to sometimes put it off because you might think it will cost too much. Unfortunately with roof leaks, this is the worst thing you can do, because the issue will just get worse over time, making it even more expensive.
So, the most cost-effective and cheapest option is usually getting your leaks fixed as soon as you find them. Keep in mind that a leak can have several causes, so don’t automatically think it's a worst-case scenario. Every time you find a leak, make sure to have a professional inspect it to pinpoint the cause.
Here in the Southwest, we tend to ignore our roof. One of the most critical features of our home, because we have so many days of sunshine every year. Then the monsoon season comes and all of a sudden we regret not doing our routine maintenance because we have a big, expensive problem with roof maintenance during winter.
You can only expect your roof to last about half as long as it should if you don’t regularly maintain it. Your roof accumulates damage every day from the elements – rain, the hot sun, even pests and people walking on it. Pile on to that the even more intense heat and periodic heavy rains from the monsoon season and it’s a disaster waiting to happen. You could have a big roof repair just waiting to happen and you’re completely ignorant of it.
Before the monsoon season begins, at least once every year, you should have your roof inspected – especially if its a flat roof and its over 15 years old. Our roofs here in Arizona get hit the hardest during the winter rain between December and February and the monsoon season between June and September. When it rains here, we have drops in temperature that happen suddenly, causing thermal shock, compromising your roof’s surface.
In your roof’s warranty, it probably has a clause that voids the warranty if you’re not properly maintaining it, so its critical to keep up with regular maintenance, schedule routine inspections and fix any necessary problems as soon as possible.
If you’re not scared of getting on your roof, here’s a couple things you can do to increase your roof’s lifespan. Take the correct safety steps if you do, because one of the leading causes of serious accidents around a home is falling off a ladder. Also, be careful walking on it, especially if its older. You can cause some serious damage and weaken your roof if you do.
There are some roofing issues that you should leave to a professional roofing contractor. Find an experienced, licensed, professional roofer like Mikku and Sons Roofing if you find any of these problems:
A roofing system is a big investment for property owners, and represents a big portion of construction costs.
It’s a roofing contractor’s job to help the owner protect their investment. They should provide professional, careful maintenance on the roof on a regularly. This will make sure its properly protected.
Here are some tips that will help your roofing contractor ensure they won’t miss any essentials during services. If you’re a homeowner, these tips will guide you on what to expect when you hire a professional roofing company to perform routine shingle roof maintenance.
A roofer should perform 4 basic services twice per year to help a homeowner properly maintain their asphalt shingled roof. Also, you’ll want to do this after major storms. Here’s your roofing maintenance checklist:
A critical part of roof maintenance is routine cleaning and clearing of the roof and its related systems. Pay attention not only to shingles and flashing but other key elements, like eaves, troughs, down spouts, installations (such as skylights, vents, chimneys, solar panels), and ventilation.
Here’s what we recommend:
Property owners should regularly clear debris from the roof, including leaves, branches, and other items that might clutter the surface. Your roofing contractor might use a leaf blower, being sure to blow the air down the roof. This will ensure that debris won’t be blowing up and underneath the shingles. To lower the debris that accumulates, clear away vegetation and branches that hang over the roof. Hire a professional tree service to cut away difficult or hard to reach areas.
Dig out leaves and organic material from all gutters. This will ensure water drains without obstruction through to the downspouts. Homeowners could install eave protectors, metal meshed grates that prevent buildup of debris and make cleanup easier.
Be sure the downspouts are clear and unobstructed so water drains properly from the roof and away from the foundation. A homeowner should take notes of any leaks or drips that occur during or right after a rain storm. Report any issues to the contractor during inspection time.
Once cleared of debris, your roofing contractor should inspect it for any red flags that could indicate potential trouble.
They should complete this inspection twice a year – recommended in the spring and fall. This will allow them to make note of anything suspicious, as well as complete small fixes or minor repairs before they become bigger issues. Also, they’ll see if there’s any evidence the ventilation system is malfunctioning or might need maintenance or cleaning.
An experienced roofer should immediately complete any asphalt shingle roof repairs to maintain the integrity of the roof’s materials and related systems, such as drainage and ventilation. Little fixes performed properly will prevent bigger issues, or more costly repairs, over time. They could:
Replace or repair missing, broken or buckled shingles: A roofing contractor could use roofing cement or nails to repair shingles that have become cracked or loose. They could also replace any shingles that have broken free or blown away.
Replace or install valley flashing: They may also consider replacing the existing valley flashing if its become corroded, cracked or is no longer secure – which would threaten its waterproofing abilities.
Replace other flashing: Your roofer could use roofing cement and nails to replace metal flashing around chimneys, roof vents or other installations if the flashing has become loose or rotten. If they’re installing the flashing against a brick structure, it’s advisable to use copper or galvanized steel, because the lime in brick mortar could corrode aluminum materials.
Repair gutters or downspouts: Your roofing company might use gutter caulking, a gutter patching kit or roofing cement and patches to fix leaky or corroded sections of the eavestroughs or downspouts. If they are sagging, they should use a level to determine the proper pitch, then rehang them so they drain properly.
Whether you’re a homeowner looking to maintain the life of your roofing system, or a roofing professional educating your customer on the benefits of regular inspection, maintenance and repair, sticking to a consistent, regular schedule is well worth the investment.
Finding out your roof is damaged and needs repairs or replacement can be stressful for a homeowner. Handling insurance claims, dealing with adjusters and ensuring you get paid for all covered damage is an intimidating process. Many property owners aren’t confident about filing a claim, process issues and what kinds of documentation they will need.
To an insurance company, your roof is the most critical feature of your property. If its damaged, it can lead to much larger damage claims. The Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety has stated that more than 90% of hail or high-wind claims result in a payout relative to the quality of the roof cover. Insurance companies check roofing claims with great scrutiny and expect homeowners to provide correct documentation and accurate information in order to process the claim.
To make the claims process experience easier and to help you get the right settlement for your damage, take some photos of your roof and exterior property before they are damaged. Then, when you have some damage from a storm, update the photos when you need maintenance or repairs completed. Once the roof is damaged take another set of photos showing the need for repairs. Document and record the damages and any quotes, estimates or bills you get in relation to the damage. Having this info on file in one place will ensure your claims process is a smooth and easy experience.
Before you file your insurance claim completely, you’ll need an estimate from a professional roofing contractor. Most of the time you can pick the roofing company of your choosing. Your contractor should help you make your way through the sometimes complicated roof insurance claims process. Some roofing companies have adjusters on their staff that can deal with your insurance claim for you. Try to find a contractor that has a lot of experience providing roofing quotes for insurance claims. They should help through the process of getting a roof repair or replacement covered by the insurance company.
Keep in contact with your insurance agent and company. Its the best and most simple way to be aware of what’s covered or not covered in your homeowners policy.
Some policies use the age of the roof and take it into account when it gets damaged. If your roof is under 10 years old, you could be covered for the entire cost of repairing or replacing the damaged section at the time of the claim. If it’s more than 10 years old, you could be paid for the depreciated value of the damaged roof. The depreciated value takes wear and tear and age of your roof into account. This could mean the value has lowered before the damage occurred.
Some insurance policies will offer damage coverage only up to the depreciated value, no matter what the age of your roof is. Others will cover the entire cost of repairing or replacing the damaged section at the time of the claim, no matter the age of your roof. Most of the time, your insurance company will send out an adjuster to your property to inspect and verify the claim. If the damage is found to be from age, normal wear and tear, or the poor condition of your roof, it will probably be classified as normal maintenance, and won’t be covered under your policy.
The most critical thing to remember is if you think your roof has been damaged and needs repair, you shouldn’t wait for the inspection by a roofing contractor. Determine how much damage you have as soon as you can. This will help move along the process expeditiously and help you avoid more damage that might not be covered under your policy.
A lot of homeowners take their ceilings for granted and don’t check them often, but we recommend you inspect them regularly for signs of moisture seeping through. Even if you see something that looks minor, you need to get on it and check it out. This article will discuss tips for taking care of water stains quickly and effectively.
When you spot moisture, the first thing you need to do is find out the source of where its coming from. Most of the time, the area directly above the stain is the best place to start. If you can’t see anything on your roof that looks like a problem, you could have a pipe thats leaking. There could also be moisture running along some pipes or trusses that will come from a source somewhere else and drop onto your ceiling.
Are they water stains? There are other causes for stained ceilings including:
If the leak is coming from your roof, it could be that there are other sources of moisture other than obvious leaks. If you need a professional, experienced roofing company to inspect your roof for leaks and determine where any moisture spots may be coming from, give us a call at (623) 465-1068.
You don’t want to repair any moisture stains, no matter how bad they look, until you know the source and have it repaired. If you fix it first then find the source, chances are you’re going to be repairing another moisture stain. If there’s permanent damage, you might have to take out part of your ceiling or wall to fix the issue. So the stain doesn’t seep through, when you’re dealing with a cosmetic stain, you should use a stain covering primer before painting over the spot. Depending on how much damage there is and the stain itself, you may need to contact a professional to help fix the issue.
Make sure you don’t let moisture stains and their source go unchecked. Always take care of the issue as soon as possible, or what could be a minor cosmetic and roof repair could turn into something major and much more expensive. Here at Mikku and Sons Roofing, we can put you in touch with financing options, if the need for it arises.
In the past, Victorian gray slate and Spanish Mediterranean red tiles were about the only choices if you wanted tiles on your roof. But because of new tile roofing innovations, technologies and manufacturing methods, there are many more architectural choices for your tile roofing system. Now, tile roofs are constructed of many different materials, colors and designs that can fit a multitude of taste and design choices for residential and commercial property owners.
For the most part, you can expect a tile roof to have a lifespan of 50 years or more. Some of the great things about tiles are their fire resistance, how they withstand strong chemicals, how they are resistant to biologically degrading, keep away bugs and animals, are mold resistant and can handle extremes in temperature, whether hot or cold.
A lower weight makes them able to be used in many types of architectural designs and systems.
20 to 30 % more utility savings for property owners due to modern green technologies.
Cool roof choices that will help towards solving urban heat island issues.
Manufacturing processes are incorporating new materials, such as recycled options in their manufacturing of tiles.
Many architectural styles can be used because of a myriad of new colors and shapes, such as even wood and shakes.
They’re more moisture resistant than the past due to developments in waterproof underlayment barriers and trim and venting options.
These are made by baking clay thats been colored and glazed. They can be used with many textures, finishes and styles. They are durable and long lasting, requiring less maintenance.
These are made using concrete reinforced with fibers, which increases strength and durability. They can be pressed into molds, which creates different kinds of shapes and designs for architectural purposes. They are then finished with different colored dyes and glazes.
Can last as long as 100 years, a natural stone material that requires very little maintenance. You can cut it into various shapes and sizes to fit the architectural needs of any home or business its being designed for.
Made form aluminum, copper, steel or tin, they can be made to look like stone with many different shades, shapes, and colors. They’re very lightweight, extremely durable and can be used in cold and elevated areas that have a lot of snow.
They can mimic the look of clay, ceramic or slate through rubber or polymer compounds that can be shaped and molded into many styles and designs. They’re also very light, durable and much easier to install than other tiles like clay, concrete or metal.
