Phoenix, Arizona, is a city that is proud of its rich historical past, and its collection of historic residences is one of its most notable features. These modest homes, which range in architectural style from Spanish Revival to Bungalow and each tell a different tale of Phoenix's growth and development.
A historic home tends to be associated with elaborate woodwork, huge porches, and distinct personalities. But one sometimes disregarded feature that's just as important is the roof. Best roofing practices for Phoenix's historic homes include regular inspections and maintenance to preserve the structural integrity of these valuable properties. This is not only crucial for the safety and comfort of the residents but also for the city's architectural legacy.
There is more to historic home and building preservation than just maintaining the past. In addition to creating a rich culture in the present and providing meaning for the future, it narrates the tale of the past.
Most homeowners are able to strike a compromise between their budgets and aesthetic preferences when it comes to roof replacement, but historic property owners find this to be a more challenging decision. Historical organizations govern certain homes, and the owner of a historic home might not be permitted to add a contemporary roof.
If there are no such limitations, a contemporary roof that mimics the old roof's traditional style is an alternative, albeit it will probably require more upkeep. When the owners wish to maintain their original appearance, using the original roofing materials and procedures on historic homes is often possible.
Homeowners who take this route should be careful to schedule routine inspections, usually more frequently than would be required for a modern home's roof, as old building materials and techniques are not as dependable as modern ones.
Phoenix's historic mansions are more than just relics from the past; they are dynamic representations of a bygone period. Like other structural elements, their roofs need to be meticulously maintained to ensure their lifespan and ongoing historical authenticity.
1. Preservation
2. Rehabilitation
3. Restoration
4. Reconstruction
Anybody buying a historic home has to be aware of the particular obligations that come with being a homeowner in this sort of property. Homeowners in historic areas should first carefully go over all of the property's documents, some of which may be quite old.
You can find out the precise details of your home's original roof by consulting documents such as photographs, original designs, insurance carrier surveys, and even newspaper clippings saved by prior owners. To find out if it has any materials that would be useful in your case, you might also speak with a nearby historical society.
Preserving a historic home requires care, attention to detail, and a commitment to maintaining its unique character. Recognize any previous maintenance or renovations done by the previous owners. They ought to be left alone if they have been built correctly and operate properly.
However, they could need to be replaced if the techniques or materials used (such as hard, impermeable cement mortars) are the reason they are deteriorating or causing harm. Always try to carry out repairs in a way that minimizes the amount of upkeep required.
Any homeowner may be impacted greatly from water damage and attic moisture, but historic buildings are particularly vulnerable to these issues. If the roof of a historic property is destroyed, it may be very difficult or perhaps impossible to repair any further water damage.
Historic buildings are more susceptible to rot and mold growth because of their antiquity and the absence of contemporary safeguards against these problems. For the owner of a modern home, a minor leak could be a bothersome issue, but for the homeowner of a historic property, the same minor water damage could be disastrous.
Get to know your home's distinctive characteristics and elements by researching its architectural style and history. Learn about your community's historic preservation policies and follow them when making alterations or additions.
This guarantees the preservation of the home's historic integrity and original character throughout any alterations. In the end, most historic homeowners would rather keep their properties looking the way they did when they first moved in, whether or not that means following rules set down by a local historical authority.
This is a labor of love and is usually far more costly than keeping the roof of a contemporary house in good condition.
It could take months to learn what you need to know about a recently purchased historic home in order to make wise judgments on roof upkeep and care. But problems seldom wait for you to finish your research before arising—that is, extreme weather and unanticipated physical damage.
Sometimes, it's going to be necessary to repair damage to your roof, so make sure the roofer you choose is qualified to conduct the work properly and preserve the historical features of your house. Get in contact with a roofer who specializes in historic home restoration if you need emergency roof repairs.
Local roofers might be acquainted with your building and able to offer you thorough repair method advice. Look for a roofer who can complete your repair project without taking out any significant components or adding anything that could damage the other roof components.
The key to maintaining a historic home is routine inspections. To spot any indications of damage, deterioration, or other hazards, schedule annual inspections with a licensed roofer or historic preservation specialist.
When problems are dealt with early on, they can be prevented from growing larger and more costly later on.
| Inspection Type | Frequency | Description |
| Visual Roof Inspection | Bi-Annually or after severe weather events | Inspect from ground level or using a ladder for any visible damage, such as missing or damaged shingles, flashing, or debris. |
| Roofing Material Condition | Annually | Examine the condition of roofing materials (shingles, tiles, slate, etc.), checking for signs of wear, cracking, or decay. |
| Flashing and Seals Inspection | Annually | Inspect roof flashing and seals around chimneys, vents, and other roof penetrations for any signs of wear, corrosion, or damage. |
| Gutters and Downspouts | Bi-Annually | Clean gutters and downspouts to prevent clogs and ensure proper drainage. Inspect for any damage or loose components. |
| Skylights and Roof Windows | Annually | Check for leaks, ensure seals are intact, and clean any glass or acrylic surfaces. |
| Attic and Roof Deck Inspection | Every 2-5 years | Examine the underside of the roof deck for signs of water damage, mold, or pest infestations. |
| Insulation and Ventilation | Every 5 years | Assess insulation in the attic and ensure proper roof ventilation to prevent moisture buildup. |
| Chimney and Roof Connections | Annually | Inspect the area where the chimney meets the roof for cracks, loose bricks, and flashing issues. |
| Ice Dam Prevention | Seasonally (winter) | Monitor and address ice dams to prevent damage to the roof and leaks. |
| Historical Roof Features | As needed | Carefully inspect and maintain unique historical elements, such as ornate roofing details. |
| Professional Roof Inspection | Every 3-5 years | Hire a roofing professional to perform a comprehensive inspection and make necessary repairs or replacements. |
The primary building materials used in pre-war homes were natural materials like stone, masonry, and wood, all of which are eternally durable with regular upkeep. Making an inspection checklist before starting any maintenance or repairs will help ensure that any faults are quickly found and fixed before they cause problems.
Simple maintenance work, such as fixing a loose roof flashing, should not need any form of consent. But if you want to make repairs to your home you may need permission and should seek advice, especially if your home is listed or in a conservation area.
Preserving and maintaining the historical authenticity of Phoenix's historic homes involves more than just choosing the right roofing materials and conducting proper maintenance. It also requires navigating the complex landscape of permits and regulations, ensuring that any roofing work complies with local preservation guidelines.
Permits and regulations might seem like bureaucratic hurdles, but they are essential for preserving the historical value of Phoenix's historic homes. Complying with these regulations not only protects the architectural heritage but also contributes to the city's unique character and charm.
Whenever possible, choose restoration over replacement when making necessary repairs. The home's authenticity and character is preserved by salvaging the original materials and architectural aspects.
Aim for restoration efforts that align with the original craftsmanship by collaborating with professionals with historic preservation experience. Some believe that replacing a portion of a building is superior to repairs since they last longer.
However, there are valid arguments for why repairs are preferable to replacements. Removing too much of what makes the building unique can harm its meaning and style.
In most cases, repairs are more durable than replacements. Older buildings typically have original materials of a greater grade than their contemporary counterparts.
For your historic home to last a long time, it is important that you shield it from the elements, including water, wind, and sunlight. To avoid water damage, make sure the roof, gutters, plumbing, and drainage systems are in top shape.
A historic home's first line of defense against degradation is its roof. To prevent fading and weathering, clean and restore the roof on a regular basis.
When doing repairs, try to match the materials and building techniques used in your property. By doing this, you can protect your home's original charm and guarantee that repairs will withstand weathering just like the rest of the structure.
| Roof Component | Suitable Materials and Methods | Description |
| Roofing Material | - Slate or clay tiles for historical accuracy | - Slate and clay are durable and can match the historic aesthetic. |
| - Cedar or redwood shingles for a traditional look | - These materials add character and can be appropriate for many styles. | |
| Roof Underlayment | Synthetic underlayment with historical mimicry | Use modern underlayment that mimics the appearance of traditional materials, such as felt paper. |
| Flashing and Seals | Copper or lead-coated copper flashing | - These materials are durable and age gracefully, blending with historic features. |
| Historically-accurate sealants | Use sealants that match the appearance and texture of original materials. | |
| Gutters and Downspouts | Copper, zinc, or galvanized steel | - These materials can match the historical look and are long-lasting. |
| Box gutters or half-round gutters | Choose gutter styles that were common in the era when the house was built. |
The only times this wouldn't apply are when the current material has a weakness or a design defect. If you were just to match it, it might fail or cause greater harm (if a gutter is inadequate, for example).
Only use modern materials and methods where their efficacy in older structures has been demonstrated.
Preserving the architectural heritage of historic homes in Phoenix is a noble endeavor, and maintaining their roofs is a vital component of this mission. The unique charm and historical significance of these homes make them timeless treasures, and our responsibility is to ensure they endure for future generations.
Now that we know how to preserve historic roofs, what about other homeowners? Do these tips still apply to modern homes in Phoenix? The answer is a resounding yes. Whether your home is a vintage gem or a contemporary build, the principles of proper roof maintenance remain remarkably consistent, particularly in Arizona's challenging climate.
On a house, a roof valley is an area where two sloped roofs meet. Stormwater will begin to flow into your custom gutter and downspout system at this point. When installing a shingle roof, the manner the valley is built is quite important.
Incorrectly placed and flashed valleys may lead to substantial leakage issues. In spite of being a roofing penetration, valleys must be flashed and watertight.
This article will explain why a valley has to have flashing placed by a roofing contractor over the whole length of its sloping roof line. To answer the question, 'what is a roof valley?' we'll go into more detail about this issue below so that you can see why roof valleys leak and become such a nuisance.
Open Valleys
The roof-covering material terminates a few inches short of the roof valley's midline. Water cannot get into the roof valley because of the metal coating.
If the roll-roofing valley liners fail, or if there is a cross wash, where water flowing down a roof slope rushes across the valley and up under the shingles on the next slope, you may have faulty valley lined shingles installed. Prevent valley issues by having your roofing system installed properly.
Closed Valleys
When shingles on one or both sides of the roof reach over the valley on the neighboring roof slope, your roofing system has a closed valley. Shingles shield the inside linings of a closed valley from exposure to the elements and damage.
A cut valley is a form of a closed valley in which the shingles from the surrounding slope are cut parallel and just short of the valley's center. Roof replacement is unnecessary if you don't observe any leaks in the valleys because of poor installation quality; not a problem.
Woven Valleys
In a closed valley, shingles from both sides of the roof are alternately routed through the next slope. It should be installed by your roofers in such a way that runoff cannot penetrate the shingles.
Flashing a valley on a roof is the same regardless of the material:
The occurrence of roof leaks in a variety of locations is not uncommon. When it comes to water seeping into homes, we get a lot of calls from people living in valleys. In most cases, the leak is the result of badly fitted or nonexistent flashing in the valley region.
Inexperienced roofers or general contractors are frequently the culprits of this subpar job. A professional roofing contractor should be hired to prevent any leaks from occurring in the first place. Valley flashing is the most efficient method of repairing a leaky valley.
Because these roof repair businesses don't know the basics, a large number of valleys are not flashed or are flashed incorrectly. Even if the contractor knows what he's doing, he may have chosen to take shortcuts at the expense of the homeowner. It doesn't matter what went wrong; if a valley is left exposed, your house is in danger of harm.
It's not difficult to get proper valley flashing. Professional roofers will have little trouble installing a dependable valley flashing system. This type of flashing is easy to grasp. Before the final roofing material is laid, this piece of metal is put in place.
For the full length of the valley, it follows the contours exactly. Stormwater will have a clear course to follow as it flows from your roof to your gutters and downspouts. In most cases, a GC will use a valley to weave the shingles together.
This is just the opposite of what the shingle industry advises against doing. It's time for a change of scenery, perhaps on a steeper slope. However, with a gradual slope, water will have more time to soak into the roof, allowing it to penetrate further.
Roofers and general contractors who are untrained are the first things to go wrong. They have a bad reputation among contractors for cutting corners and not finishing the task to the highest standard. An important part of keeping a home dry is installing roof flashings.
To ensure the integrity of their job, a skilled roofing contractor will properly flash any vulnerable spots around the property. Particularly when it comes to the long term, Valleys account for the vast majority of all roof leaks because of faulty or nonexistent flashing.
A typical error is to weave the tiles in the valley together. An easy-to-use approach that can save money and time for general contractors is available. Creating a finished product that looks nice to the untrained eye of a homeowner.
Woven Valley Shingle Installation
Installing braided valleys involves laying shingles in the valley and tying them together.
A braided valley gives a constant aesthetic to certain homes. There may be lumps and imperfections in the finished roof as a result of improperly put down shingle placement in the valley, resulting in an unflattering appearance.
Rather than using roofing cement, the woven valley shingle installation method relies on the weaving pattern to keep water out. This means that you should not nail any closer than six inches from the valley's center while placing shingles in a woven valley. Under the shingles, a hollow area can form if this step is not performed correctly.
This "bridging" is a severe issue for the roof's longevity. As a result of the open area, the shingles are more susceptible to damage from things like footfall, hail, or other flying debris. Because of this, certain manufacturers' warranties may be voided if their shingles are installed in a weaving valley.
Other disadvantages of a braided valley shingle installation are their delayed installation, especially in cold weather, and their more complex maintenance. Because this type of roof valley can only be shingled by simultaneously installing both roof faces, the process takes a long time.
The contractor must remove and reweave numerous shingles to replace a single one if repairs are required. While the initial installation costs of a woven valley may be lower because of the use of fewer materials, they may be more expensive in the long run.
Because of their single-layer design, woven valleys are ideal for use with three-tab shingles. To properly shingle a valley, you'll want to consider the increased thickness and decreased flexibility of architectural shingles.
In braided valleys, laminated shingles are more likely to cause bumps. Because of their bulkiness, they may not even be able to be weaved. As a result, we do not advocate the use of laminated shingles in a weaving valley.
Closed-Cut Shingle Valley Installation
Installing closed valleys, also known as closed valleys, is faster and cleaner than installing braided valleys. It appears as if the tiles meet neatly in the valley's middle when viewed from the ground. Underneath the uppermost shingle, a valley is formed.
A closed-cut valley is created when the initial roof plan's shingles are installed into the valley. This phase requires the use of just entire (not chopped) shingles.
Roofing shingles are installed on the second roof plane, and they are allowed to lap over the valleys of the previous roof. After that, the shingles on the second layer are chopped to create a straight line through the valley's middle. When cutting the shingles, use a chalk line as a guide.
A closed valley, in contrast to a braided valley, lacks hollows. Closed valleys, on the other hand, must rely on shingles to keep the valley protected, which has disadvantages.
As the roof ages, the valley shingles are more likely to lose their granules, and with them, their color and protective properties, than the rest of the roof is. Any type of shingle in a valley, as opposed to metal flashing in an open valley, might ultimately impede appropriate water and debris movement.
California Valley
The California valley, also known as the Long Island valley and New Jersey valley, is a variation of the closed-cut valley. When using this technique, it is necessary to put the last shingles on the "cut" side of a cut valley horizontally, causing them to flow up and down the valley.
This reduces time and is the fastest technique to shingle a roof valley, but in most regions, it does not give appropriate protection. Indeed, valleys in California are restricted in some places. Always check your local codes to determine if a certain type of valley installation is required.
Open Valley Shingle Installation
Metal flashing is the only defense an exposed valley has against the elements. Flashing is exposed on this roof, so the valleys are clearly evident. With copper or painted flashing, exposed valleys can enhance the roof's design, although some homeowners find them unappealing.
When it comes to snow, metal sheds it faster and more efficiently than shingles, making it less susceptible to ice dam and debris accumulation. The galvanized nature of the valley flashing metal ensures that it won't corrode or deteriorate in the presence of water.
Both an ice barrier and wind-driven rain will not be able to open the door. Open valleys may also be utilized to connect roofs with dramatically varied pitches, which is a boon to the roofing industry.
You'll need to decide on a flashing material if you're building an open valley. Flashing is usually made of metal. Among the possibilities:
As a minimum, we propose a 28-gauge galvanized metal in accordance with local building requirements. Corrosion resistance and non-staining are still required if a metal is not used. It must also be at least 24 inches (610 mm) broad to use valley flashing.
The thickness standards for flashing are commonly misunderstood, so be sure to check with your local building code. Valley flashing should be installed such that it matches or exceeds the life expectancy of the shingles.
You should also take into account the valley flashing profile when making a decision. Some flashing has a "W" curve in the middle, whereas another flashing is straight. Water cannot flow from one side to the other of the flashing because of a crimp in the middle of it. Using this method, you may connect two asymmetrically sized roof planes.
To sum everything up, a roof valley is the meeting point of two slopes of a roof at the lowest points. Two slopes of a roof can meet at the roof corners to make the roof hip.
A roof valley can either be open or closed depending on the design but proper flashing should be done at these points to ensure that there are no leaks.
Take a look at the flashing's aesthetics. To complement the shingle color, some homeowners like to paint the flashing. Others choose to keep the copper or steel face unchanged for a more dramatic effect. A home's exterior may be dramatically improved by the color and style of its shingles and flashing.
If you happen to notice leaks and you have these types of roof valleys, Mikku and Sons Roofing can work with you to correct the problem. Get in touch with us in Phoenix and in surrounding areas. Call us at (623) 465-1068.
Roofs protect a structure as well as its contents from the elements. They are installed with materials that have estimated lifespans which can be compromised at any given time without proper care and maintenance.
Commercial roof inspections require extensive skill and understanding. Commercial roofs are often larger and have a lower slope or are completely flat and are therefore more difficult to maintain.
When inspecting your roof, it's not enough to look for rust or water spots or take a walk around the perimeter of your building. Routine inspections and minimal maintenance can help building owners prevent costly problems due to the changing seasons and temperatures.
This article details 10 tips on how to inspect a commercial roof.
Roof inspections save money by preventing costly repairs and identifying problems early before they develop. Property owners utilize inspection data to allocate maintenance funds.
Maintaining the roof helps reduce the risk of lawsuits because when it comes to your health and your wallet, a poorly maintained roof can be dangerous. Maintaining your roof might save you money because roof maintenance typically reveals minor concerns that can be fixed before they become huge, costly problems.
Roofs should be inspected often to prevent damage to sensitive equipment. Building inspections discover flaws and protect staff and others safe. It helps property owners with preventative maintenance.
To avoid major problems, commercial building owners need to keep their roofs in good condition. Without regular inspections, your building could be closed as regular roof, and facade inspections keep buildings safe, efficient, and in good shape.
Commercial roofs may need more frequent inspections than the twice-yearly spring and fall checks. Roof inspections may discover repair opportunities and sites for telecom towers or solar panels, allowing you to monetize your roof.
| Tip | Importance |
| Detailed roof inspection | Shows areas that need attention |
| Clean debris | Reveals any damage and prevents roof damage |
| Inspect for ponding water | Prevents roof failure |
| Look at the flashing | Ensures no developing roof damage through leaks |
| Check the roof for cracks or tears | Prevents any damage to the roof interior through leaks |
| Inspect the parapet walls, if any | They are areas at risk of water damage |
| Check the drip edges | They prevent interior roof damage |
| Inspect the roof surface | Reveals any developing damage |
| Inspect the gutters | Clogged gutters may promote pooling on the roof |
| Check the downspouts | Downspouts direct water away from the gutters |
An assessment of a building's roof is a serious matter that should be handled by a roofing professional. Commercial building owners should get an industrial roof inspection at least twice a year to ensure that their roofs are in good condition and safe.
Inexperienced roofers may cause costly repairs that may have been avoided if a competent business roof contractor had conducted the checks. There are many issues that could befall your roof at any time during the year.
Many issues might arise during commercial building inspections, but only if you hire a qualified inspector who knows how to do each of these processes correctly. That way, you can avoid the need for costly roof repairs when the damages become worse.
1. Conduct a detailed roof inspection
In order to guarantee that your commercial roof remains in good condition, you must do a thorough examination.
You can only address a problem if you are aware of it, and you can do so by knowing the problems. The following are some of the problems that a professional inspection will illuminate for you:
Commercial roof inspections allow you to catch problems before they become a big problem. Before the cold weather sets in, inspect the roof for any damaged flashing, buckling, or split seams.
Problems like wind-related cracks and clogged gutters can be identified in an inspection before they become costly damages that require repair. Summertime breezes can develop little cracks that can grow during the winter.
Make sure you get in touch with a reputable commercial roofing contractor who can identify any potential issues. Check the commercial roofing checklist with your inspector to see if there are any obstacles or clogs.
2. Clean Debris
Keeping your roof clean and clear of snow, ice, debris, and other natural elements can ensure its longevity and reduce property damage.
Algae and moss can damage your roof through shingle disintegration and wood rot. They can cause costly repairs, but this is eliminated through regular roof cleaning.
Regular roof cleaning prevents decay from the accumulation of dirt, moss, and algae. Cleaning your roof regularly is important for its structural integrity and the safety of your home and goods in any conditions.
Remove anything from your roof but consult a professional because as much as roof cleaning is possible, conducting it yourself can be dangerous. Debris on your commercial roof should be a priority as bird nests, or other animals can cause future difficulties.
A commercial roof's drainage system may be damaged by tree debris. Branches and leaves must be removed from drains and roof corners for water to flow freely.
3. Inspect for ponding water
Ponding occurs when water pools on a flat roof, forming ponds usually after a downpour. Most pools leak or evaporate, but a roof that doesn't drain rainwater for two days or longer, even while other parts of the roof are dry, is prone to pooling.
Water near roof drains can create color changes and stains. Check slow-draining lines and occluded areas for ponding.
An expert evaluation may reveal concealed water damage and determine the underlying damage. Before your roof inspection, remove any standing water but take photos of the damage before and try to determine how long it's been there.
Water ponding can damage your roof. Ponding water might cause roof leaks creating a habitat for termites, roaches, and beetles, which infest your roof and do considerable damage.
4. Look at the flashing
Flashing protects flat and slanted roofs against flooding. Stacks, walls, and curbs should be inspected for flashing. Check for cracks or breaches that could let water in before the rainy seasons.
Look for fractures that let water in, especially at the flat-to-vertical transition. Changeover points have more cracks, and other issues and leakages are more common, typical where the flashing connects to the roof.
Flashing surrounds skylights, chimneys, and vents on commercial roofs, and they keep water from damaging areas of the roof. Flashing stops rainwater from leaking into the roof deck, which manifests as peeling or splitting at the caulking.
Flashing protects a roof's most vulnerable parts. Thus, anyone evaluating the roof should pay careful attention to it. By maintaining your flashing, you may prevent roof leaks.
5. Check the roof for cracks or tears
A commercial roofing inspection is needed to determine whether the roof has structural damage from tears or cracks. A fractured roof surface can have serious repercussions if ignored, as your roof provides insulation, shelter, and energy efficiency.
The sooner you fix a roof tile crack, the better. Foot traffic, protruding nails, and intense storms produce roof cracks. Full horizontal or vertical breaks should not be repaired using adhesive. Valleys and penetrations are vulnerable to tears or cracks.
You may likely have to replace the roof if the damage is significant. You can conduct a flood test to check if the roof has tears or cracks. Flashing problems are easy to address if identified before the major water damage. Annual inspections ensure your roof's flashing remains watertight.
6. Inspect the parapet walls, if any
A parapet wall is simply a vertical extension of the wall. The walls protect the roof from water, air, and vapor and also aid in temperature regulation.
Corrosion and degradation of the roof or another pre-built nearby structure can be prevented by controlling these variables. Your roof's edge can be lifted and damaged by strong wind as a result of elevated wind pressures.
In order to determine if the wall is structurally sound, your expert inspector should check and address any concerns as soon as possible.
7. Check the drip edges
The edge of the roof's perimeter is covered in drip edge, which creates a watertight seal by keeping the underlayment in place. It is positioned exactly under the shingles and just above the facia.
A compromised drip edge allows water to seep into the roof under the underlayment. This is worse for the eave side of a roof that has clogged gutters.
It is imperative that all of these drip edges be anchored firmly and properly. Doing so will ensure that there are no openings in the structure that allow water, dirt, and other elements to get in.
8. Inspect the roof surface
The surface of the roof is the visible covering on the roof. The materials used on the roof covering vary in durability and how much maintenance they need.
Inspecting the edges of the roof is critical, especially along the windward edges, where storms are most likely to cause the roof covering to get lifted. During an inspection, look for any damage caused by the wind, which includes rips and tears.
The roof could also be damaged if it blisters in many parts of the roof. Blistering occurs when there are many air or moisture pockets that expand during hot weather to further damage the roof.
Everything on your roof that isn't part of the perimeter or flashing is referred to as the roof field. The deck of commercial roofing systems may reveal evidence of ripping in the membrane of the roofing system.
Any small invisible cuts on a roof may cause leaks. These can be identified through flooding, which is the method of testing the waterproofing system by allowing a regulated amount of water to remain on a horizontal surface for a predetermined period of time.
9. Inspect the gutters
Gutters play a role in directing rainwater from a roof down downspouts or water harvesting systems. Gutters on a commercial roof are important as the roofs are large and flat, therefore prone to pooling.
If the gutters are clogged, there is a high chance that water will pool on your roof. If the gutters sag or overflow during rainstorms, there is a high chance that the gutters aren't fully functioning.
PVC roof membranes on roofs don't quickly give way as a result of ponding, but other roof types, such as asphalt-based roofs, are more likely to fail. Remove any debris that has accumulated in the gutters to avoid this.
10. Check the downspouts
For your gutter system, the downspout serves as the outlet for the rainwater that falls from your gutters. Ground to roof inspection of your downspouts is important to assess whether the downspouts have been damaged or clogged.
Mechanical damage to the downspouts can occur when mowing grass or being crushed by an automobile like a forklift or something the sort. If there is mechanical damage to the downspouts, they will have to be fixed or, better, replaced.
Make sure your downspout water is directed away from your house so that it doesn't collect there. Pooling water at the base of a house damages the foundation as well as floods the basement if there are any open crevices.
Clogged gutters often direct some of the debris into the downspouts, and this can manifest as overflowing or sagging gutters during heavy rain. You can check if the downspouts are clogged by tossing a coin into it and checking if the coin will emerge from the bottom.
You can profit from employing an assessment checklist for commercial roofing projects, no matter how large or little they are. Controlling your company's operations is easier when everyone on your team is following a well-defined checklist.
A roof assessment checklist:
-Maximizes output and efficiency
-Minimizes errors and omissions
-Increases the effectiveness of roof inspections
-Cuts down on inspection times
-Customer satisfaction is improved.
-Facilitates the planning of tasks and managing staff
During the rainy or snowy days, roof leaks, frozen gutter drains, and an accumulation of snow might occur. A compromised roof will get damaged when this happens, and the best method to avoid these issues is to prevent them in the first place.
Roof damage may occur when it caves in if it's exposed to extremely windy or rainy circumstances and when cracks in your roof develop as a result of the expansion and contraction that temperature variations cause. These damages are all a result of thermal shock and roof structural failure.
Rainwater can also freeze in small fractures in the roof, posing a problem. As the temperature rises, the ice melts and expands the fissure and widens even further as the water freezes again.
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.
Different types of roofs have different shelf lives. It is essential to know which kind of roof is best for your convenience.
This is also handy for checking when roof repairs should be made. A roof starts deteriorating at a certain point in time.
Keep reading our article, exploring the factors that determine How Long A Roof Lasts.
A roof is constructed using a variety of materials and construction techniques. Each technique and material play a role in determining the shelf life of a roof.
A roof is primarily made up of the following materials:
The techniques used in the construction of roofs directly impact the longevity of the materials used in the construction. Some external factors can influence the shelf life of a roof, such as the weather.
Natural disasters or the elements themselves could cause damage to a roof.
Even if your roof contractor gives you a firm guarantee on how long a roof lasts, it may not be enough. Natural disasters on a huge scale could cause significant damage to a roof in a matter of seconds.
Snow or rain accompanied by strong winds may cause water to be pushed into the roof cladding. Depending on how the roof was constructed, this could be a severe problem or something that occurs over time.
Water and snow accumulation beneath the roof cladding can result in ice and water dams, which can cause damage to the interior roof, including the wood and even the house’s structure. The weight of the ice and water dams may also cause the house’s roof to cave in on top of it.
Hurricanes and tornadoes can be powerful enough to lift a portion of the entire roof off its foundation. In addition, when a tree falls on the roof due to strong winds or a lightning strike, the roof may be destroyed, and a fire may erupt.
When highlighted on a house, plants and the general green ecosystem have a dreamy aesthetic appearance. A roof with moss growing on it may appear beautiful at first, but the roof will deteriorate over time due to the moss.
Moss can cause shingles to lift in the case of a shingled roof, and it can also collect moisture, which can cause damage to the roof shingles and the roof frames. Taking care of any leaves or plant life that grows on a roof should be done as soon as they appear.
An industrial building with wide variations in temperature and working conditions, such as one housing a factory, is more likely to suffer from roof deterioration than a home’s roofing material.
If a porch roof is poorly connected to the main house or stressed by natural forces such as wind, the internal roof structure of the main house may be subjected to additional stress and strain. The porch roof may also compromise the structural integrity of the main house’s internal roof structure in the long run.
If your house is located in an area with extreme heat or cold may have a roof susceptible to damage from the elements. This takes into account weather conditions such as snow or rain.
To better understand this, we will study the lifespan of various common types of roofs.
When used in conjunction with other sub-layering materials such as waterproof underlayment, shingles provide roof cover for a home.
The durability of your shingles depends on the materials they are made out of.
Asphalt shingles are produced in two different styles, architectural and 3-tab shingles. They both have granules applied to the top layer and fiberglass applied to the back layer.
They are distinct in a few ways.
3-tab shingles
In areas with severe climatic conditions, these last approximately 7 to 10 years, and those with mild climatic conditions last about 12 to 15 years. Because of their short lifespan, they come with a shorter warranty period.
Architectural shingles
When compared to 3-tab shingles, they have more materials that are more long-lasting. Architectural shingles are heavier and, therefore, more resistant to damage.
They have a lifespan of approximately 18 to 20 years, with some areas experiencing longer lifespans of up to 30 years.
If compared to 3-tab shingles, they are more expensive, but they require less maintenance in most cases.
Wood shingles last for up to 30 years under normal conditions, but only 20-25 years in areas that have been subjected to extreme heat and weather for an extended period.
On the other hand, wood requires more attention and maintenance, and it is susceptible to damage from termites, fire, mold, mildew, and storm damage.
Essentially, these are shingles made of polymer, plastic, or rubber and are designed to look like slates or wood tiles. Compared to wood shingles, they provide superior protection against heat, fire, and storm damage.
They can last for up to 40 or 50 years, and they are available in various color options.
These are roofs covered with rectangular tiles in shape and resemble shingles but are significantly larger and heavier.
Since they are heavy and expensive, a homeowner should consult with a construction company or structural engineer to determine whether or not the roof can support the tile installation.
They have a long life expectancy of more than 50 years, and they may even live for as long as 100 years in some cases. They can withstand high temperatures, hail, and precipitation.
These can last for up to 50 years or more, and they are resistant to heat, fire, and storms. Concrete tiles reflect sunlight, which can cause the roof cladding to deteriorate over time.
There are several different gauges of roofing metal, such as 30 and 32 gauges. Roofs made of 28-gauge metal are primarily used in industrial settings where resistance to the elements is required to function correctly.
Depending on the gauge, they can last anywhere from 50 to 75 years. The lower the gauge, the tougher the roof is.
This is the basic structure of the roof. It has a significant impact on the stability of the roof and the overall design of the roof.
Valley boards and rafters make up the roof structure on which the roof cladding will be installed.
Roof trusses are built to last as long as the house itself. This is guaranteed if no external damage is done to the house or roof structure itself.
These are very common and easier to set up than other options. It retains heat better than metal trusses, which helps to keep a house warm because metals are excellent heat conductors.
They are more expensive than wood trusses, but they last for a more extended time. They do, however, require more maintenance since they expand and contract with temperature changes.
The installation of metal trusses takes a long time and necessitates using a diverse range of skills among the construction crews.
Metal trusses are not very effective at retaining heat, and it may be necessary to add additional heat insulation. They are also susceptible to rust damage as time passes.
Wooden trusses are becoming more common, and many homeowners are opting for them as a result.
They can withstand fire up to a critical point, whereas steel and concrete give way almost immediately. This is because they have similar expansion rates, making a burning house collapse more quickly.
Depending on a few factors, two roofs in the same area may have significantly different long-term durability.
It is possible to extend the life of your roof by following a few simple guidelines.
It would be unwise to install a metal roof in a windy location or wooden shingles in a climate with cold and heat extremes. Consult with your roof contractor for guidance on the best type of material to use to ensure that your home’s roof lasts for many years.
Every roof experiences wear and tear over time, and the weather conditions in a given area determine how quickly this occurs.
The way a roof is constructed has a significant impact on its long-term durability. An improperly built roof will be vulnerable to damage from the elements, such as snow and strong winds.
For example, on a shingled roof, if the underlayment is not installed incorrectly, water may leak through to the roof, causing water dams, which can cause structural damage to the house.
Regular inspections of your roof should be carried out by yourself or professionals. This is important because the source of significant roof problems such as moss or damaged shingles may be discovered early on, allowing the damage to be repaired before it worsens.
When the problem is discovered quickly, it can be repaired sooner rather than later, saving you money on damage costs as well as extending the life of your roof.
Make sure to consider external factors such as the sun’s direction when designing your home. Over time, the direct sun’s rays cause wear and tear on a roof’s surface.
If one side of your roof is more exposed to the sun than the other, one side may deteriorate quicker than the other. When a roof is aligned in the north-to-south direction, both sides receive nearly equal amounts of sunlight, depending on the time of year and the season.
For countries in the northern hemisphere, like the United States, the sun rises in the east and sets in the west, swinging through the southern hemisphere. As a result, the roof that faces south will receive more sunlight.
The length of time it takes to replace a roof is determined by the type of roof cladding used.
These are the ones:
Metal roofs = 50-75 years
Tiled roofs = 50-100 years
Please read the article in more detail about how different conditions and climates can affect your roof’s longevity. If you have a shingled roof, you’ll need to determine what material your shingles are made from before you can discover how long they will last.
Deteriorating roof signs can be detected even before the roof has been completely damaged.
Some of them are as follows:
1. A leaking roof or puddle stains on the ceiling
2. Visible damage like cracks and torn or open parts
3. Moss or plant growth on the roof
4. Curled or broken shingle edges
5. Sagging or a depression on the roof
6. Rot or mold
Even if you have a flat roof, all roofs are designed to do one thing in common: properly drain still water from the top. Regardless of the style of roof you have, you want to avoid the problem known as “ponding” to the best of your ability. For those who don’t know, ponding is when water builds up in a singular area and doesn’t go away even after a few days have passed.
Although there are different reasons for ponding to occur, it is most commonly caused by crushed insulation from foot traffic on the roof, or by clogged up drainage. Whichever the case may be, it still stands that if you have pooling water that you should address the issue right away, or else you risk having leaks develop inside our home. This can cause the materials to break down and possibly even cause interior water damage or other drainage problems. According to the AZ Registrar of Contractors, minor amounts of ponding will occur on most flat roofs, but should be addressed if it doesn’t automatically drain within 48 hours.
No matter how small the puddle is, if you have standing water then you are sure to have bugs close behind. One of the more common pests that are drawn to still water are mosquitoes, which spend their time breeding and living by the water – something you want to be sure is cleared off before they make your roof their home!
When bugs and water are gathered in one place, you can be certain that birds will follow soon after. Not only are they interested in the puddles for themselves, but birds will use this as an opportunity to nest and feed on the surrounding insects. Not only are the noisy, but the dangers of contamination from bird droppings increases when you have ponding water attracting them to your roof.
Plant growth may start as small as a spot of algae, but can develop quickly and grow out of control – such as a mold problem developing in your walls. Roofs that trap moisture or have leaks will not only affect the appearance of your home, but also cause it to grow damaged quicker over time and possibly even cause an environmental health hazard.
Any amount of pooled-up water will start to fade into your roof and cause a certain amount of discoloration. This is not only attractive to look at, but also causes deterioration that may cause improper cooling to occur.
Although we don’t experience harsh winter freezes in Phoenix, there is still a chance that the winter nights can freeze sill water on your roof. This will damage the roof membrane, since water expands when frozen – meaning this is a situation that you want to deal with before the weather turns chilly!
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:
The idea behind cool roofing is the same as the reasons people living in hot climates wear light colored clothing. Here in the desert southwest, wearing light-colored or white clothing helps keep you cool. Its because light colors reflect heat and sunlight, whereas dark colors absorb them. Homes are similar to people. If your roof is dark colored, your home will be hotter than if it had a light-colored roof. During the hot summer months we experience here in the Phoenix area, a darker colored roof can reach temperatures as high as 150 to 190 degrees at their peak. In contrast, a cool roofing system will peak at around 100 to 120 degrees.
They are made of materials that reflect the energy and heat from the sun away from the surface of your roof. The materials for homes with low-slope roofs are typically bright white, however, there are other colors that are being made for more sloped roof applications. Cool roofing is highly emissive, which allows it to emit infrared energy away from the roof. Bare metals and metallic coatings usually don’t have low emissive abilities, which is one of the reasons they aren’t thought of as cool roofing materials.
Initial costs for a cool roof are similar to traditional roofing materials. Some cool roofing materials cost less than traditional materials and some cost more. Cool protective coatings can be applied every 10 to 15 years, which can reduce, or eliminate, the need for expensive roof tear-offs and replacements. If you add these roof repair or replacement savings with an average 20 percent savings on utility costs, it makes a cool roof a money saver over the life of your property. You can also get rebates in some communities, in addition to energy and lifespan savings, from local utility companies for installing cool roofing on your home.
There are 2 two types of materials for low-slope roofing systems on homes – single-ply materials and reflective coatings. Single-ply materials are made of large sheets of pre-constructed roofing fastened together over the old roof and sealed at the seams. Reflective coatings are installed or applied over an existing clean, leak-free roof surface using rollers, sprayers, or brushes.
There are other materials available for sloped roofs in clay or concrete tiles. They stay cool by using certain pigments that reflect the sun’s infrared heat. There aren’t asphalt shingles or pre-coated metal roofing materials available in cool versions right now.
You can visit the ENERGY STAR® Website for a comprehensive list of cool roofing system products and manufacturers at www.energystar.gov.
Spray foam roofing (SPF) is an excellent choice for a flat roof because of its insulation properties and seamlessness.
It has a long lifespan if it's been installed correctly, which takes skill and special equipment for the project. Throw your favorite coffee pod into your coffee maker and learn about foam roofs.
Mistakes to Avoid in SPF Installation
Spray foam roofing sounds easy enough. Two ingredients are mixed using special equipment attached to a truck or trailer. A chemical reaction starts as soon as the ingredients are mixed together.
Heated hoses bring the mixture forward to a spray gun, which is used to apply the foam to the roof with a thickness of 1 to 2 inches. The liquid then foams, expands, and hardens.
An elastomeric coating is applied to protect the foam from UV rays.
This installation takes skill and experience. The equipment is too specialized for a one-off job. Only an experienced pro will be able to mix the components correctly, at the right temperature, and apply the liquid properly while anticipating how much the foam will expand.
This is a widely recognized and highly effective building envelope material, with roofing systems being one of the main application categories.
A high-performance product with a lot of incredible benefits, spray foam has gained popularity with builders and roofing contractors.
Like a lot of building products, installation should always be performed by a professional, experienced installer utilizing correct handling and installation techniques, with safety precautions employed and followed.
The foam serves dual purposes as a protective roofing material and as a thermal insulation solution. A roof’s main purpose is to protect what is underneath it. SPF roofing systems provide durable protection for the structure and personal items contained below.
It's lightweight, as most SPF roof systems, weigh less than a pound per square foot. Its also seamless and self-flashing, and highly resistant to severe weather, wind, and foot traffic.
Once installed, it requires minimal maintenance, providing more strength to the roofing system. It works well in most of the country’s geographic regions and climates.
It also works well as both an air and moisture barrier. Not only does it protect against water and moisture intrusion, but it also reduces air movement through the roof system, which improves indoor air quality and lowers the energy use of the building.
Because the roof of a building is a big source of heat loss, the insulating qualities of the SPF help to provide excellent indoor temperatures and energy efficiency. As a thermal insulator, it has one of the highest R-values per inch of all roofing insulations.
And, because spray foam has fully adhered to, there are no thermal intrusions from fasteners. Keeping heat inside the property during colder months and keeping heat out in warmer months.
It reduces heating and air conditioning demands, which lowers energy expenses during its lifespan, which can be 30 to 50 years with the right maintenance. In warmer areas, reflective roof coatings can also be added over the SPF to further reduce cooling expenses.
Roof performance isn’t measured by just one factor (like R-value). Rather, the success of a roofing system is accomplished by reviewing combined considerations for air movement, moisture control, health, safety, durability, occupant comfort, and energy efficiency. An SPF roof scores high marks in all of these categories.
Watch out for the myths of foam roofing and makes sure that you are getting your roof maintained!
