Author Archives: Hellenic Roofing

What are the different types of roof flashing?

In the early days of roofing, roof flashing was a labor intensive, time-consuming part of the roof. Birch bark and other materials were used to create roof flashing or ways to were used to redirect the water flow from chimneys and other areas prone to leaks. 

One method that was used is applying mortar flaunching, a large buildup of the substance, piled sloped around the chimney so the water would flow away from the chimney. Using shingles at an angle were another method used for roof flashing. 

Today, modern roofing uses a common roof flashing material of  flexible, thin strips of galvanized steel and there are different forms of roof flashing:

• Continuous flashing: This is the apron flashing that is one long continuous piece of roof flashing installed between a sloped roof and a vertical wall. 
• Drip edges: Typically installed all along the roof eaves under the roofing felt to keep water dripping off the roof.
• Step flashing: A ninety degree bent  rectangular piece installed in an overlap fashion at vertical walls to keep water from getting behind the walls. 
• Valley flashing: This W-shaped metal flashing is installed  on top of the roofing felt where 2 roofing angles meet creating a valley.
• Vent pipe flashing: This cone-shaped fitted metal flashing is installed into the shingles to cover areas around the vent  pipes.
• Base flashing: This flashing is installed around the base of chimneys to ensure rain is directed downwards like apron flashing. 
• Counter-flashing: Placed opposite of or above base flashing creating a team of roof flashing. 
• Cap flashing: This L shaped roof flashing lies flat to the roof, windows, and other fittings to keep water running in the opposite direction and keep it from pooling in any cracks that may be around the fitting.
• Chimney flashing: Applied around chimneys, preventing water from pooling in the gaps between the chimney and roof. 
• Saddle flashing: This roof flashing is installed around jutting beams or railing attachments.
• Skylights: This roof flashing is used for skylights that doesn’t have built-in flashing and is needed to keep from water from seeping in around the skylight and into the home. 
• Kick-out flashing: This roof flashing links the gap between step flashing and the gutter system to direct water away off the roof, away from the wall and to the gutter.

Does flashing go over or under shingles?

It depends on the type of roof flashing and the purpose it is to serve. When installed where a wall  begins, the roof flashing is installed on top of the shingles. Base roof flashing, however, should be installed under the shingles around the chimney and then secured to the roof. In some areas, like step roof flashing, it is alternated in layers of flashing, shingle, flashing, shingle, etc. 

Do roofers replace flashing?

Yes, and using a professional roofing contractor for roof flashing installation is recommended. When a new roof or re-roofing is being installed, the roofing contractor will replace the old flashing with new flashing. 

If you’re not comfortable climbing a ladder or working at high levels, calling a roofing contractor is recommended.  Having your roof inspected by a professional once a year, things like bent, damaged, loose, or missing flashing can be addressed while the contractor is on the roof. Call 832-704-2817 today for roof flashing in Spring, TX.

• Preparation: Remove all contaminants like laitance and sealers from the  surface. This step  is critical if the application is going to be successful in penetrating and adhering to the surface.  Mechanical application is recommended for a through layer of the paste that can penetrate the concrete pores.
• Repairs: Make all repairs of cracks and joints using a polyurea-based material that has superior flexibility and fast curing speed.  To extend the material, use a sand or pea gravel as a filler for large cracks, holes, and spalls. 
• Primer:  Using the manufacturer’s recommendation of primer, squeegee on the number of coats in the thicknesses stated. A colorless primer coat or a tinted coating an be used. 
• Bed Layer:  Allow the primer two to four hours to dry, depending on the temperature, but you should be able to walk on it as a test its ready. If this is for a garage floor or a flooring with metallic or Medici flooring systems, you’ll need two coats and now is the time to apply the second coat primer. 
• Topcoat: With the second coat dry and cured, vacuum the flooring to remove any loose material then apply the top coat using a flat blade squeegee.

Can polyurea be applied over epoxy?

An  existing garage floor with a two-part coating like epoxy, polyaspartic, polyurea, or polyurethane, should be adaptable to applying a polyurea coating without any issues or problems.  Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions and follow the recommended steps for accurate process. 

Is polyurea better than epoxy?

When it comes to flooring in your home, the garage floor is usually overlooked, especially when it comes to applying a coating. Now after living there a few years you’re ready to sell and noticed that the garage floor looks pretty bad. Perhaps a new coating will improve it and help get the asking price for your house. Question you have now, should you go with an epoxy coating or a polyurea coating? Let’s look at the specs of both: 

• EPOXY COATING: Epoxy is not a paint product, but rather, a shield material for flooring, acting as a barrier. Epoxy coatings comes in different thickness that bond with concrete, is durable and moisture-resistant. There are some drawbacks as with any product, one being over time, it drastically fades if exposed to the sun. Epoxy coating isn’t as flexible as some like their garage floor coating, so it may need frequent repairs and will need regular maintenance to take care of any abrasions, and it isn’t good in freezing temperatures.  Epoxy coating is vulnerable to blistering and bubbling, which weakens the material. 
• POLYUREA COATING: Polyurea coating is the result of chemical reaction and creates a beautiful, waterproof coating that is flexible and impact-resistant. It withstand fluctuating temperatures, doesn’t crack, peel, or fade. Polyurea coating is a twenty time stronger material that cures fast. Because it does cure quickly, it is recommended to be installed by a professional contractor with manufacturer training. 

Can polyurea be painted?

In general, spraying a 100% acrylic latex house paint will work well with a polyurea coating. It is recommended to do apply the paint within 24 hours of applying the polyurea coating.

How long does polyurea last?

A Polyurea coating that has been applied by a trained contractor will last up to ten years depending on the environment. With ability to stand up to 5,000 psi, polyurea coating is a durable coating that can be customized  and cures within seconds of application.

With all the information we’ve provided in this piece, let’s discuss what polyurea coating pros and cons are:  

The Pros:

• High tolerance to heat 
• UV-resistant
• Abrasion, chemical, and scratch
• High-gloss finish.
• Impact resistant
• Waterproof resistant
• Flexible, doesn’t crack or peel
• Fast curing

The Cons:

• Cost

With so many benefits, a polyurea roof coating can help your property today. Want to get started on your roof coating in Spring, TX? Call 832-704-2817 today.

• Cost:  Metal roofing can coast up to three time more than asphalt shingles or other roofing material. However, if you’re planning on living in your home for years, it will give you a high ROI because it will probably be the last roof you’ll need. 
•  Noisy: Metal roofing can be loud and noisy, especially in a hailstorm or heavy rain. However, installed with insulation, that concern is eliminated. 
• Contraction and Expansion: When metal roofing is attached in large panels, they contract and expand with the temperature. When they are installed with fasteners properly, they can come lose. 
• Color matching:  When metal roofing has been installed for a while and a repair is needed, getting an exact color match is difficult.
• Presentation. With metal roofing when  water accumulates on the roof, it can create serious problems. This is typically because of a low quality metal or poor workmanship with the installation. This is one of the biggest reasons you want to find a contractor that is experienced on how to install a metal roof and offers a warranty. 

Should you put a metal roof over shingles?

You have a shingle roof on your home now and it is time to replace it. You want to go with metal roofing because of all the benefits that would offer. Do the old shingles need to be removed? No, it is not necessary to tear off the old shingles off before having the metal  roofing installed. Metal roofing is a lightweight material and will not any significant weight to the structure. 

Things that you should consider before making that decision with your roofing contractor:

• Local building codes
• Product warranty
• Contractor guarantee

Which metal roof is best?

When the words, ‘metal roofing’ are spoken, you probably think about an old barn roof or ugly steel roofing. Today, there are several metal roofing types to choose from that will match any architectural style. We’re going to review the different types of metal available for roofing, but your location and the environment can be a deciding factor which one is best for you. 

Copper Metal Roofing 

It has been around forever and is found in all corners of the world, copper is referred to as the grandfather of all metal roofing. It has a long-life span, up to 200 years or longer, it is 100% recyclable, and because it is soft, it is quiet. However, as an extremely soft metal, it may not be the right metal roofing for an area prone for hailstorms. 

Aluminum Metal Roofing 

Aluminum metal roofing is equivalent to a Dune Buggy when it comes to roofing. Seal off any essentials, install a roll cate, and you’re ready to go. Aluminum metal roofing corrosive resistant and durable, like a dune buggy, perfect for coastal residence. It is expensive to have installed and with a high strength-to-weight ratio can make it a thin material for some areas. 

Zinc Metal Roofing 

 Zinc metal is amazing and as it patinas, it heals any scratches. A lifespan of more than 100 years, this natural property is popular among commercial structures. It is easy to form and manipulate in different chapes, although for residential use, it isn’t one of the most appealing metals. 

Steel Metal Roofing

Steel is an alloy that is used in any building aspect you can imagine. Steel metal roofing is a common material for commercial properties now and is spreading into the residential areas. It is easily available, and the low cost and recyclability makes it a popular choice.

What is a roof restoration?

The basic definition of restoration is the process of restoring an existing item and making it like new. People restore boats, cars, houses, and even commercial roofing. When we are speaking about roof restoration, removing the existing roof is not required. A roofing contractor simply adds to the existing roofing, extending the lifespan and giving your building the protection as a roof is intended. 

What is involved in roof restoration?

A roof restoration is done by applying a highly-engineered roof coating on an existing roof deck. This restores the existing roof to a like-new condition and delays the need to get a completely new roofing job by several years. 

So, what type of commercial roofing can have a roof restoration done? Essentially, there isn’t many commercial roofs that a roof restoration can’t be done, including but not limited to: 

• Built-Up
• EPDM
• Mod-Bit
• PVC
• TPO

With that in mind, there are three main types of  coating used for roof restoration: 

• Acrylic
• Aluminum
• Silicone

Additional roof restoration coatings that can be used in the right environment are: 

• Elastomeric 
• Polyurea 
• Silicone 

With circumstances considered like the roofing materials, weather, and size of the structure, a roof restoration can take up to three days. When compared to get a completely new roof, roof restoration is faster, and the day-to-day operations of your business aren’t interrupted. 

How long does a roof restoration last?

A commercial roof will typically last up to twenty years. With a roof restoration, you can expect up to another fifteen years. In addition to delaying the need to get a new roof, other benefits of roof restoration are: 

Less Expensive: A completely new roof replacement could cost as much as $22 per square foot, with most of that expense being the removal of the old roof first. A roof restoration can cost as little as $6 per square foot. 

More Sustainable: Because you aren’t adding to the landfill with more  roofing waste, roof restoration is more sustainable to the earth. Additionally, it is an energy saver for your building which will get you tax credit. 

Avoid Catastrophic Loss: A roof restoration will repair possible damage and leaks, saving you from having a major roof leak in the future.

It is always recommended to hire a commercial roofing contractor that has experience in how to do a roof restoration so that you get the most from the results as possible. Ask for recent references of the contractors you’re considering and then follow up with those customers if they are satisfied with their roof restoration job. 

The biggest question about commercial roofing is, “How long do roof coatings last?”. The life expectancy for a  roof coating will vary  based on the coating’s thickness and product quality. Many coatings have manufacturing warranty of five to ten years. There are roof coatings with features that make them a standout product over others with the following:

• A  fully adhered not fastened to the substrate
• A monolithic or without seams
• A superior waterproofing capability that doesn’t require tear-off and disposal

Roof coatings are easily maintained and can be reapplied, and with proper maintenance, a roof coating can go for decades with simple re-coating reapplications. Call 832-704-2817 today!

Additionally, after getting quote on repairing or replacing the roof, or anything else associated with your home, you’ll have price shock. Then you’ll realize the cost and why you have homeowner’s insurance and you’ll be eager to file that roof insurance claim! 

How does a roof insurance claim on roof work?

When it comes to residential filing a roof insurance claim, the process is often lengthy and can be confusing. The following is a comprehensive guideline that explains in simple terms how the roof insurance claims process works: 

• DOCUMENT AND RESEARCH AND DOCUMENT AGAIN!: Being proactive is important and when it comes to your home. First, review you homeowner’s policy and verify your coverage and deductibles. Then do  a monthly visual of your home’s exterior and an annual roof inspection. You are looking or lifted, loose, or missing shingles. You check for loose granules in the gutters and downspouts. Check for any water stains inside and outside your home. Then, after a hail, rain, or windstorm or after ice and snow have melted, do another inspection, and take pictures and/or videos of any problem areas.  Note the day and time the damage occurred so that you have that information for your roof insurance claim paperwork. 
• CONTACT YOUR ROOFING CONTRACTOR: After a weather event, if you find roof issues, contact a roofing contractor immediately. Most offer a free inspection or if they do charge, the amount will be deducted from your bill. The roofing contractor will be a reliable source of advice and assistance, most have dealt with more homeowner’s roof insurance claims than you ever will. They can be your advocate and guide you the best way to repair or replace your roof based on your insurance coverage and budget.  
• CALL YOUR INSURANCE COMPANY & FILE A ROOF INSURANCE CLAIM: Once your roofing contractor has inspected and provided you a quote and report, you need to file your roof insurance claim. They will send an adjuster out to view the damage. If possible, have your roofing contractor there at the same time. This is where they come in as your advocate. 
• HAVE YOUR ROOF REPAIRED OR REPLACED: Now that you have documented everything, and your roof insurance claim has been approved, it is time to have the roofing job done! 

Does homeowners insurance pay for roof?

A roof leak caused by perils, yes, your homeowner’s insurance will typically cover a roof insurance claim for repair or replacement. Perils are things such as fire, hail or wind. The biggest exception to this would be if your roof has an exclusion to hail or wind. 

What your homeowner’s insurance, or any homeowner insurance company won’t cover is damage that results from lack of maintenance and upkeep. Nor will cover roof insurance claims for normal wear and tear, meaning if your roof is more than 10 years old, your roof insurance claim will either be denied or prorated. 

How do I get my insurance to pay for a new roof?

• First thing you do is keep your premiums paid up to date. Letting those lapse can cause a big problem and not just having your roof insurance claim paid, but with the lender that has your mortgage too. Lack of insurance is considered cause to foreclose in some real estate contracts. 
• Second, you want to keep your homeowner maintenance and upkeep done with the structure. This includes the monthly visual and annual inspection of the roof, the foundation, the electric, plumbing, and HVAC system. Keep your receipts and a log of what you’ve had inspected, repaired, replaced. 
• Last but not least, follow our recommendations of taking pictures before something happens and after something happens. Document damage and have that information ready to show the insurance adjuster. 

What do insurance adjusters look for on roof?

Even a relatively mild storm can wreak havoc on a roof. Lift up and tear off shingles, toss tree limbs and other debris on the roof, etc. Once you file your roof insurance claim, what will the insurance adjuster look for?

• Damage on The Interior: It is assumed by the insurance company you have taken care of you home all along. So, when you file a roof insurance claim and they find indication of long term roof leak, your claim will be denied. 
• Proper Installation: Faulty workmanship when your roof was installed that leads to a leaking roof won’t be covered by your homeowner’s insurance policy. Even if the roof was that when you bought the house, which is why most insurance companies do an inspection before issuing a policy. If they see an issue, they advise you to get that taken care of before they issue the policy. Old Age: Your roof may have a 25 year warranty, but in reality, it will start showing its age and nearing its end of life at about 15 years. After you file a roof insurance claim and the adjuster does their inspection, they may deny the claim because you’d be having to replace it sooner than later anyway. They may pay a depreciated amount, meaning they prorate it and pay you a portion.

If you aren’t sure how to file a roof insurance claim, call your agent. They will assist you and some companies have customer service agents to walk client’s through the forms and process. It is better to ask and get help then try to bumble through it and miss crucial information that results in a denied claim. Call 832-704-2817 today for your roof insurance claim help.

The time can vary based on the size of the house. Factors that can make a roof inspection take more time are multiple attics and roof levels.  A professional roof inspection will include a thorough check of the chimney and eaves, the fasteners and roof braces, the roof decking, and support. 

Common issues a professional roof inspector will be looking on a shingle roof are: 

• Water damage: Your roof could have water damage that you aren’t aware of yet only because it hasn’t made its way to the interior of your home. Water damaged typically comes from clogged gutters, an improperly installed roof, damaged flashing, or broken, curled, or missing shingles.
• Mold growth: Mold on the insulation around the chimney is an indication that your roof has water leaking into your home. Their job is to find where and advise you accordingly. 
• Shingles: As we listed above, broken, curled, loose, or missing shingles can be an indication of algae growth, rotting shingles and decking, and hail or wind damage.
• Clogged gutters: When asphalt shingles begin to age, the asphalt comes off and fills gutters with the loose granules.  Those granules weigh the gutters down, pulling them away from the house. 

How do you inspect a new roof?

A new roof shouldn’t need as in-depth of a roof inspection as an existing roof. Wrong!  A contractor can be in a hurry while installing a new roof, and while we don’t like to talk about it, you could get an unreliable roofing contractor.  Things that a roof inspection should include once your new roof is installed: 

• Underlayment installed correctly
• Nails not exposed or overdriven 
• Shingles overlapping shingles appropriately
• Metal flashing in valleys, around chimney, vents, skylights
• No loose shingles
• Ridge vents installed
• Drip edge installed
• A proper overhang on the roof edge

What is a roof certification inspection?

A roof certification is a document provided by the inspector after a roof inspection has been performed, and the roof passed all areas of the inspection.  Your insurance company sometimes requires this documentation once you have filed a claim. Some municipalities will ask for roof certification as well, especially if a license was required to have the new roof installed. 

How often should I check my roof?

As the homeowner, you should do a visual check from the ground once a month, and always keep your eyes open for any apparent issues.  Roofing industry experts recommend a professional roof inspection should be performed once in the early fall before winter weather arrives and once at the end of spring to check for any damages from springtime weather like hail and wind. 

Your home is a valuable asset. This is the place where your family lives and where you’re building a future investment. Proper roof care includes regular roof inspections to make sure it is in the best condition possible. Call 832-704-2817 today for your roof inspection in Spring, TX!

What is the Best Commercial Roofing Material?

There are a number of different commercial roofing materials on the market that property owners should be aware of. For instance, a high performing commercial roofing material is TPO. TPO roofs are usually white, and have earned the name “cool roofing.” This is because TPO roofing material is highly reflective, and is effective at reflecting the sun’s rays, rather than absorbing them. This means that property owners can benefit from lowered energy bills when summer comes around. If you live in a particularly arid part of the country, you could stand to benefit from TPO roofing materials.

Is a Metal Roof Cheaper than an Asphalt Roof?

If you are hoping that a metal roof will be cheaper than an asphalt roof, you will be sorely disappointed. Asphalt roofs do not possess the same amount of longevity or durability as metal roofs. They are also extraordinarily affordable. It is important to review all the benefits of metal roofing, which are primarily focused on roof longevity. It is highly unlikely that a metal roof will need to be replaced more than once in a lifetime. This depends on mitigating factors like inclement weather and roofing maintenance.

What is the Best Type of Metal Roof?

Are you wondering what the best type of metal roof is with regard to commercial metal roofing? Please review the following list of top-rated metal roofs to discover more about this integral roofing material.

• Copper. Copper is an extremely expensive material, but it also comes with comparable roof longevity. It is quite soft with a low melting temperature.
• Zinc. This is another long-lasting roof material. It is resistant to corrosion and resistant to saltwater corrosion.
• Aluminum. Aluminum is another soft metal roofing material that is resistant to rust.
• Steel. There are three steel variations, and these include galvanized, galvalume, and weathering steel.

What are the Problems with Metal Roofs?

If you are interested in the advantages of metal roofs, it is worth reviewing some of the potential disadvantages. These disadvantages include the expense of installation. Metal roofs require great roofing materials, expertise, and precision. This will naturally drive up the price. The other thing to consider is the fact that you will need a lot of insulation if you don’t want your metal roof to be noisy in a rain or hail storm. An authorized roofing project manager will be able to go over the specifics of the amount of insulation that is involved with a proper metal roof installation.

Commercial Metal Roofing

The reason why commercial metal roofing is such a big part of the roofing industry is that metal roofs are highly reliable and effective for multiple decades. With a proper commercial metal roof installation from a leading source of roofing in your area, you can expect a very well-performing roof for your commercial property. Metal roofs are also effective for industrial properties for the previously stipulated reasons.

Commercial Metal Roof Installation

Commercial metal roofs must be fabricated and installed correctly. A poor commercial metal roofing installation can spell disaster for your property. Your roof won’t last as long, and your poorly installed metal roof will have a proclivity for developing leaks. If you roof develops a leak, then it will water damage will develop on the underlayment. Water will continue to filter down into your ceiling and walls. That is why it important to only use the most professional roofing company for your commercial roof installation.

Commercial Grade Metal Roofing

Are you wondering what grade commercial metal roofs are made from? The truth is that the majority of modern metal roofs are composed of corrugated galvanized steel. This is essentially a steel sheet that is coated with zinc. Aluminum, stainless steel, and copper are all used in commercial metal roof applications.

If you would like to discuss commercial metal roofing in Spring, TX, we are here to assist. Please reach out to us at 832-704-2817 to discover more.

What is the Best Asphalt Shingle?

Would you like to discover more about asphalt shingle roofing? To begin with, it will be important for you to consider your asphalt shingle options. Please review the following examples of asphalt shingles to find out more about this important roofing material.

• 3 Tab Asphalt Shingles. Affordable and stylish, 3 tab shingles are a staple for roofs across America. These particular shingles can be differentiated from architectural shingles due to the fact that they have tabs or cutouts. These are made along their long lower edge. Each tab looks like three separate pieces when they are installed, however, they are part of one whole piece.
• Architectural asphalt shingles. Architectural shingles are generally known to be more durable than 3 tab shingles. They also come in more luxurious roofing options. Architectural shingles can be made to appear like other roofing materials such as wood or slate.
• Different grades of asphalt shingles. There are different grades of asphalt shingles that vacillate between the 3 tab variety and the architectural shingles variety. The best way to find out which asphalt shingles will be best for your residential roof installation is to give your local professional roofing company a call.

What is the Difference Between Architectural Shingles and Asphalt Shingles?

As alluded to previously, there are some significant differences between architectural shingles and asphalt shingles. Three-tab shingles are roofs that are made up of a single shingle tab size that is composed of three separate tabs that are twelve inches wide. In contrast, architectural shingles are distinguished as dimensional or laminate and come in lots of shapes and sizes. As homeowners determine what they want the facade of their home to look like, they have the choice to use different colors and shapes for their home exterior. A nice roof can add both curb appeal and increased home value.

How Long Do Asphalt Shingles Last?

Are you wondering how long asphalt shingles last? The answer is quite positive. Asphalt shingle roofs are both affordable and can last about twenty years. With a proper roof installation with good tools and materials, asphalt shingle roofs can have increased longevity. Over the years, it will be important to secure regular roof inspections and roof repairs as necessary. Storms can ravage all roofs, including asphalt shingle roofs, which is why it’s important to get a proper roofing company to help you with storm damage repairs. Your homeowner’s insurance can generally help with such repairs.

Is it Ok to Put New Shingles Over Old?

While it may seem tempting to place new asphalt roof shingles over old shingles, it is not advisable. This is because shingles are heavy. Placing unnecessary weight on the roof of your home will negatively impact the framework of the home. If you don’t need the old shingles, it is important to have them professionally removed before the re-roofing process begins. Old asphalt shingles can be recycled in the right circumstances. To find out more about the re-roofing process, and whether your old shingles can be recycled, please be sure to contact your local professional roofing company.

Who Buys Recycled Asphalt Shingles

Are you actively looking to recycle your old asphalt shingles? You are in luck. In many cases, shingle recycling is available in most major markets in America. As a matter of fact, new sites are continuing to open for recycled asphalt shingles. Additionally, there are multiple resources for finding an asphalt shingle recycler online. In order to find out more, a simple internet search should yield results.

Where are Asphalt Shingles Made

Asphalt shingles are made, predominantly, in North America. Whether the shingles are black, red, green or orange, they are all made in the same way. Asphalt shingles are made in a continuous web process that uses a shortlist of raw materials.

Where to Start Asphalt Shingles

When you are installing asphalt shingles, you can start by laying a narrow row of shingles at the bottom of the roof along the edge. After that, a roofer can lay down the first row of shingles to that they are covering the starter row. After that, you can lay your shingles horizontally on the roof.

Are you shopping for asphalt shingles? Our friendly operators at Hellenic Roofing & Construction are available now at 832-704-2817 to schedule your installation or repair for asphalt shingles in Spring, TX.

Imagine a rainstorm and the wind is blowing; the rain is pouring down. The shingles keep the rain off out of your house, blowing rain and wind would run down the walls interior if the roof flashing wasn’t there keeping the rain moving on down the roof and to the gutters. 

Do all roofs have flashing?

If a house doesn’t have roof flashing or has damaged flashing, there is likely water has leaked down the exterior and interior walls, possibly inside the walls. This kind of damage can cascade, going beyond roofing or roof flashing damage. The walls will weaken, the flooring will weaken, and eventually, the roof can begin to sag and sink.

How long should roof flashing last?

With no unexpected acts of nature or accidents, roof flashing has a life expectancy of up to twenty years. Roof flashing made from high-quality materials with perfect installation has lasted anywhere between fifty years to eighty years. Three reasons why roof flashing and the roofing itself can last longer are:

• Quality of materials
• Quality of installation
• Frequency of inspections and maintenance

By choosing a roofing contractor with a reputable history and solid customer service, you will get the first two things on that list from them. As a homeowner, the inspection and maintenance are up to you to do or schedule to have it done.

Another component of roofing and roof flashing lasting beyond their life expectancy is the use of polyurethane as a flashing sealant. This sealant forms a water and weatherproof bond that is permanent. It fills in any gaps and secures the joins around the protrusions and valleys where the roof flashing is installed.  When it is noticed during a regular inspection, the roof flashing is leaking, this is the product that you want to secure the flashing back in place and stop the leaking.        

Do roofers replace flashing?

The roof of your home is a major investment that protects your home and family. When it comes time to get a new roof, choose a roofer that doesn’t oversell you on the job nor do they cut corners to save a few dollars, like the roof flashing. Most roofing jobs will include roof flashing and trim work. You should verify what is in the estimates you get and confirm if it is an extra charge or included in the price quote.

If you’re getting a new roof, it only makes sense to replace the roof flashing at the same time, unless any of it is in pristine condition. Like the drip edge flashing and the penetration flashing, which comes in ten-foot strips. It should be installed prior to the underlayment and attached to the roof deck.

Your local building code may allow the reuse of roof flashing, but shingle manufacturers recommend always replacing the roof flashing with the new roof. Why? When roof flashing is re-used, there is no way to be certain the nails go in the previous holes, which means you could have leaking roof flashing. For a roof that is older than 15 years, the roofing contractor won’t know if the original roof flashing was installed correctly, has it been patched or replaced, and other concerns.

A manufacturer may state exception in their warranty they must install all new roof flashing with the new roofing. If you get any quotes that do not include new roof flashing, request it be added into the quote using new materials.

How to do a Roof Inspection

What many homeowners want to know is how to do a roof inspection themselves. While we absolutely encourage homeowners to take a look at their roof on their own, personal inspections will never be the same as professional services. That in mind, if you are interested in completing your own roof inspection, there are a few things to look out for.

• Seals and Caulking: One of the first things to look for are the seals. Anywhere there may be a seal, caulking, or even flashing. These are areas that can be prone to leaks or other damages that could result in serious problems for the rest of your home.
• Missing Shingles: An obvious thing to look for is missing shingles. When high winds kick up if there are previously damaged or lose shingles, they can easily be ripped off. This will leave your roof decking exposed to the elements. If this happens during a storm, you’ll likely have a severe leak that you’ll have to deal with.
• Broken, Bent, or Curling Shingles: Sometimes shingles aren’t fully removed from a roof. Instead, they are bent, broken, or so damaged they buckle and curl away from the roof. This is just as serious as if they were completely taken off. These shingles can let water in without you knowing, resulting in expensive leaks.
• Cracked Boots: Around chimney’s and other roofing protrusions usually have a rubber boot around the base. These boots are not everlasting. They can wear down, become cracked, damaged and more. When that happens, you’ll likely have a similar situation to damaged or missing flashing. Water will easily be able to enter the underlying decking and material.
• Moss or Mold: One of the biggest threats to a roofing structure is moss or mold. These can form when bent shingles, as mentioned, are not repaired. Water can get trapped under these sections of roofing and rot the material. The water can also cause mold or moss to grow which will create even more problems for you. 

While this is not a comprehensive roof inspection checklist, it is a great place to start. If you are wanting to know more, connect with the professionals at Hellenic Roofing & Construction. We can help you with a roof inspection for any reason.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is involved in a roof inspection?
  • What’s typically included in an inspection is a variety of services. The contractor will likely examine your roof from the ground level as well as on the structure itself. They’ll take their time to look over all seams and connections to make sure everything is properly maintained. 
• How much does a roof inspection cost?
  • It will depend on the roofer you choose. There are many that offer free inspection services and there are some that charge for it. Those that charge usually ask for about $75-$200 per appointment. 
• Why do I need a roof inspection?
  • The reason you would need an inspection is to determine the source or cause of damage to your home. The most common and needed time for this type of service is right after a major storm. In our area, we can see incredibly high winds, hail and more, all of which can cause serious damage to your roof that you may not be able to see. 
• How often do you need to get a roof inspection?
  • Professional guidelines state that a roof inspection should happen about once every three years. That’s enough time to feel like you aren’t wasting money but that you are also getting the most out of your roof. 
• How do I know if my roof is bad?
  • There may be several signs that you can see on your own. This would be things like missing shingles, granules in gutters, and more. If you are starting to notice these signs, they could be indications of a damaged roof. The best way to know is to schedule an appointment for an inspection.