Category Archives: Uncategorized

What is considered storm damage on a roof?

As a homeowner, it is important to know how to tell if a roof has storm damage. Most homeowners do not do a daily roof examination, even though it is the major component providing us protection from the elements. 

A roof is designed to hold up to strong elements like rain, snow, and winds. After a while though, a heavy storm can be too much for a roof, leaving you with storm damage roof repair needs. After a major storm event, it is recommended by experts to get a professional roof inspection because not all storm damage is visible from the ground. 

Here are three important signs that you need a storm damage roof repair service: 

• Wind Damage

With storms coming in from the coast and storms arriving from the north, there is a lot of wind, and that can do significant storm damage. So here’s a question many homeowners find themselves asking – “How do I know if my roof has wind damage?” Roof repair may include replacing missing shingles or replacing or securing metal roof flashing. 

Damaged, loose, or missing flashing can leave your roof at risk with vulnerable spots that flashing protects.  The damaged shingles where the adhesive seal has been broken can often be visualized by horizontal lines on the shingle or you may see missing granules, both leaving your roof at risk for leaks. 

• Hail Damage

Hailstorm roof damage is typically caused by hailstones that bruise asphalt shingles, leaving an indention or pock-mark on the shingles. Hail damage often leaves a distinct pattern of small round divots along the edges of the shingles, too. The flashing will show signs of hail damage with round indentations in a repeated pattern of round spots. Hail damage can also knock granules off the shingles, which can be found in the gutter runs. 

• Falling Debris

Tree branches and entire trees are victims in major storms. When they land on your roof, they can crack the shingles, or even bust through the roof. The cracked shingles are a major storm damage roof repair job; a busted hole in the roof is an entire roof replacement.

Can an ice storm damage a roof?

Definitely, and here are the three most common types of winter storm damage roof repairs are needed:

Water Damage

Freezing rain or ice can cause serious damage to a roof, with a particular problem being ice build-up in the gutter system. This prevents the melted ice and snow from draining and running to the downspouts. If the gutter or downspouts are clogged, the accumulated water gets under the shingles, refreezes, and causes the shingles to break, or the water will seep into the under decking, into the attic, and into the house. It will also seep into the walls. It only takes a few inches of water to cause extensive damage to the interior. It can affect the electrical wiring and mildew, with mold growing from there. 

Snow Damage

This part of Texas normally doesn’t see snow, but early 2021 showed us it’s possible. It only takes a few inches to cause snow storm roof damage and a need for repairs to be done. This can be an especially risky problem with a flat roof where snow can’t melt and slide off the roof. 

Often, a homeowner will use a snow shovel to remove the snow from their roof and end up damaging the shingles. Or worse, they apply calcium chloride or rock salt to the roof to melt the snow, which can inadvertently damage the shingles. This type of snow removal will usually void any warranty for the shingles and may get any insurance claim denied. 

Wind Damage

It isn’t uncommon for those high Texas winds to cause a need for storm roof damage repairs, usually because of loose shingles that are blown off with those blustery cold winter winds. Then, if there is any hail within those winds, it compounds the need for roof repair or replacement. 

Does insurance cover roof damage from a storm?

A basic homeowners insurance policy will typically help cover some storm roof damage roof repairs, including hail, lightning, and winds. What isn’t covered is any damage caused by earthquakes or floods. It is important to read and review your policy to learn and remind you what is covered and what isn’t. If you’re unclear, calling your agent to explain is recommended. 

If you own a commercial structure that has roofing issues, you may wonder, “Do I need a commercial roof specialist?” Or will any roofing contractor work?  The answer is yes. Choose a roofing contractor that specializes in both commercial roof repairs and installations. But why? 

Common Commercial Roofing Issues

That’s because a commercial roofing contractor will have a different skill set than a residential roofing contractor. They will have knowledge of the different roofing materials used on commercial structures and be more aware of the challenges and pitfalls of commercial roof repairs, installations, and maintenance. 

Major problems with a commercial structure roof can mean more than an inconvenience. It can result in a long downtime if the building has to be closed for repairs. In some cases, it can be the end of the business. That is why roof inspections and maintenance are important.

Inspections are an opportunity to find small issues and have commercial roof repair completed before they become big and expensive problems. This means you should be aware of what to look for that commercial roof repair is needed.

Leaking

Okay, it’s obvious if your showroom or any area of your building has rain pouring in, you need a commercial roof repair or replacement. However, roof leaks aren’t always noticeable – at first.  Water is the enemy of any structure; it is damaging when left unattended. So, it is important to know what secondary leaks look like and where they may appear. 

If you notice water spots on the ceiling, or you’re seeing or smelling mold, have your commercial roof professionally inspected. There is a good chance, especially if there is attic space, that the is water leaking through the roof. It could also be a plumbing leak, so if the commercial roofing doesn’t find anything, you’ll need a professional plumbing inspection. 

Blistering

Because a commercial structure in Texas is subjected to a hot sun most of the year, it is common for commercial roofing materials to blister. This allows an area for the rain to get trapped under the membrane, and when left unrepaired, it will eventually begin to create a leak. 

Shingle Damage

Like a residential structure, any shingles on your commercial structure will age, have normal wear and tear. They also will crack, curl, loosen, split, and the growth of algae and moss will begin. It is important for any roof inspection catch these things and have commercial roof repair and cleaning performed so that it doesn’t damage the roof any further, or the roof decking below. 

Roof Membrane Damage

For a commercial structure, this is the most common problem and commercial roof repairs can stop from having a major commercial roof replacement installed. Routine inspections to look for the smallest damage will keep the roof healthy longer. Blisters, cracks, splits in a commercial roofing membrane can quickly lead to big problems.

How often do you replace a commercial roof?

The climate, elements, and weather are important factors in determining the frequency of commercial roof replacement. The type of material used for the roofing is another factor, as is the quality of the material installation. Expect an average life span between 20 years and 30 years when routine inspections, proper maintenance, and professional commercial roof repairs have all been performed. 

What is the average life expectancy of a metal roof?

When it comes to commercial roofing materials, there are several choices available today. The most common commercial roofing materials are: 

• EPDM
• PVC
• TPO
• Metal

Metal roofing has become one of the most preferred choices here in Texas, partly due to its durability. That durability means a longer lifespan when it is properly maintained, and commercial roof repairs are done when needed. A lifespan for metal roofing can be up to 45 years or longer. 

How long do flat roofs last?

A flat roof with bare maintenance and upkeep or poor installation will last up to 10 years.  A commercial flat roof that is properly installed by an experienced commercial roofing contractor and has routine inspections, maintenance, and commercial roof repairs done as needed can give you up to 50 years, with the average being between 20 and 25 years. 

What is the best commercial roofing material?

It is important to analyze and research different roofing materials for your commercial structure before having a roof installation done. This isn’t a cheap investment, so you want to choose one that will give you the best care and last the longest.  Here are four of the most popular choices in Texas: 

• PVC Roofing

PVC roofing is considered one of the best flat roofing materials on the market today, even though it is one of the more expensive choices. The benefits are many, like the reinforced membrane that makes a flat roofing impact resistant. This lessens the need for commercial roof repairs!  It is a low-maintenance roofing material, a plus to any commercial structure owner. 

• Metal Roofing

Standing seam metal roofing is the ideal material for a commercial structure that has a 2-inch slope or greater. Metal roofing requires the expertise of a commercial roofing contractor that is experienced in metal roofing due to some required installation specifics. Not all commercial roofing contractors work with metal roofing.  

Once properly installed and maintained, it can last up to 45 years or longer. It is a durable roofing material for Texas with immunity to cracking. If not installed correctly and inspections not performed to look for issues, it is susceptible to leaking at the edges and seams. 

• TPO

TPO is a popular roof type for commercial roofing because of its durability and inexpensiveness. With up to a 20-year lifespan, this white-coated roofing material is great for energy saving in the hot Texas sun and has minimal maintenance requirements. 

• Modified Bitumen Roof

This is the most budget-friendly of all commercial roofing materials. Ideal for a building with a good asphalt roofing base, modified bitumen is ideal for commercial roof covering. However, it has a shorter lifespan for a commercial roofing structure, lasting a maximum of 15 years. 

What is the average cost of replacing a commercial roof?

The size of the commercial structure and the material chosen will be the two biggest factors in the cost of replacing the roof.  For a 20,000 square foot roof, you can expect to pay up to $7.50 per square foot for a single-ply roofing membrane. This includes labor and materials. 

How long does it take to reroof a building?

Again, the size of the structure and the material used will factor into the time it takes. The weather is also a big factor in roofing a commercial structure.  In general, the roof of an average-sized commercial roof can take between two weeks and three weeks.  The type of material chosen may need specific temperature ranges like cold sealed single-ply roofs 

Do cool roofs work?

Yes – a cool roof installation will provide a commercial building solar reflectance and thermal emittance. The difference between conventional roofing and a cool roof is that over 60% of the solar energy, aka the sun’s hot rays – are sent away from the building. This is because of the solar reflectance this roofing offers. 

The thermal emittance in a cool roof is what gives the roof the ability to release any absorbed heat and keep it out of the building. Combining these two things provides an SRI (Solar Reflectance Index) that measures how well a cool roof is working. 

A cool roof will reduce the urban heat island, aka local air temperature, and lower the peak demand for electricity. That minimizes, and in some cases eliminates power outages, while also reducing emissions from power plants like carbon dioxide, mercury, nitrous oxide, and sulfur dioxide.

What are the benefits of a cool roof?

There are several types of cool roofs on the market, but today, we’re going to focus on three of the most common:

1. Acrylic – A water-based coating for sloped commercial roofs. 
2. Silicone – A resin-based coating for flat commercial roofs. 
3. Urethane – A high impact coating for commercial roofs. 

Any of these three will provide a commercial structure owner the following cool roof benefits: 

• Lowers the energy cost by 20%
• Keeps the building cooler with less air running
• Reduces damage from thermal shock 
• Reduces air pollution & greenhouse emissions
• Complies with programs & standards set forth by the government
• Flexes with temperature ranges
• Bonds to existing roof surfaces directly
• Forms a seamless membrane to provide roof leak protection 
• Resists deterioration from the UV rays 
• Expands the lifespan of the roof

Probably the two most popular things for commercial structure owners is the reduction in costs for cooling the building. This helps a company’s bottom line and, by extending the lifespan of the existing roof, it also saves money by not having to replace a roof too soon. 

How much is a cool roof?

The cost of cool roofs varies from state to state, and even from city to city. The size of the building, and any specific circumstances, can affect the cost of the cool roof coating installed. Overall, the price for a low-slope cool roof can be as much as $1.50 per square foot, with a single-ply cool roof membrane costing up to $3.00 per square foot.

How much energy does a cool roof save?

When it comes to the cost of installing a cool roof, there isn’t much of a difference from the cost of a non-cool roof. That is, unless you’re converting your current roof to a cool roof. Once your cool roof is installed, you can expect to save up to twenty cents per square foot each year. That doesn’t sound like much until you do the math for a 200,000 square foot commercial structure, which is $4000.00 saved in a twelve-month period.

What is the difference between a cool roof vs green roof? 

Both a cool roof and a green roof help commercial buildings in areas that are highly populated to stay cool. With parking lots, rooftops, and streets causing the heat island effect, these two types of roofs elevate that effect, lowering the temperature by as much as seventy degrees. A cool roof reflects the heat from the sun back into the atmosphere, keeping the building cool. However, a green roof absorbs that heat, allowing it into the building. 

For example, asphalt shingle roofing s have a shorter lifespan than cedar or wood shake with the asphalt lasting on average 20 years and cedar shakes, or shingles can last 30 years or longer, depending on the weather and other contributions like tree overhanging, etc. Fiber cement shingle roofing s and other composition shingle roofing s can last up to 30 years.

What do shingles do for a roof?

The average person thinks that shingle roofing s have a cosmetic only purpose, but that isn’t their main function. Yes, even though there is a variety of designs and materials in shingle roofing s, their practical purpose is to provide a watertight, wind-resistant seal for protecting your roof. You could actually cover your roof in almost anything that served the same purpose. It doesn’t have to be “pretty”, just purposeful. 

When Should roof shingles be replaced?

Industry experts recommend having a bi-annual professional inspection. This will give the technician a chance to spot any small issues before they become a major leak problem.  This will also give them the opportunity to keep you updated on the aging and condition of your roof, allowing you time to budget a new roof. 

The underlying structure of a roof should last as long as the house itself does. However, if the roofing is done with subpar materials and shoddy workmanship, it can affect the lifespan of the roof. A general replacement schedule that roofing contractors use is: 

• Composition Shingle Roofing: 12 to 20 years
• Asphalt Shingle Roofing: 15 to 30 years
• Wood Shingle Roofing: 20 to 25 years
• Rubber Roofing: 30 to 50 years
• Metal Roofing: 50 to 75 years

These time frames can  vary with the climate exposure, heat, humidity, and severe weather conditions. The better quality of shingle roofing material, the longer the roof will last and routine maintenance and upkeep can help the roof lifespan. 

How do you know when shingles are going bad?

With homeownership, being proactive is better than reactive. There are several signs that you should be aware it may be time for new shingle roofing to be scheduled: 

#1: Loose or missing shingles

This can happen from storm damage and high winds, or your roof may simply be getting old. Regardless how it happened, when they are loose have fallen off, they aren’t doing your roof any good. 

#2: Blistering, cracked, curling, dried out

Shingle roofing s in this kind of condition needs to be replaced, and if there are several, the entire roof should be replaced. 

#3: Sagging

A sagging roof could be from a deterioration or improperly installed. It could have too much weight on it like snow or a leak has filled the ceiling with water. At this point, it has become a safety matter now and a new shingle roofing  job is needed immediately. 

#4: Dark and dirty

Dark and dirty areas of a roof are usually where asphalt granules have fell off from age or weather. Dark spots are also common with algae, lichen, and moss, which is eating away at your shingle roofing s. You can have it professionally cleaned, but if the dark areas are still there, plan on a new roof soon. 

#5: Granules in the Gutters

As shingle roofing s come loose, they fill the gutters and downspouts. When you’re seeing more in the gutters than you have been, it is time for new roofing. The less shingles, the less effective they are at protecting your roof.

#6: Exposed or loose nails

If the nails are exposed, loose, or have popped out, the holes are making your roof susceptible to penetrating water that will cause leaks and other  moisture damage. 

#7: Interior damage

If there has been any roof leaking that you haven’t noticed, you’ll find out by looking in the attic. Any water stains on the attic ceiling, moisture on the insulation, mildew, or mold is a strong indication your shingle roofing s are not doing their job. 

#8: Damaged or missing flashing

Damaged or missing flashing is an area where water can penetrate around the chimney, roof intersections or other projections on the roof. You may be able to have the flashing replaced or it may be too late.

#9: Age

When an asphalt shingled roof reaches its 20th anniversary, it is time to start budgeting for a new roof, you have maybe 5 more years left. 

#10: Energy bills have increased

This can be poor shingle roofing s, insufficient attic insulation, or insufficient attic ventilation. 

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 Houston, 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 Houston, 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 Houston, TX!