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Can I Replace My Roof In The Winter?

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Winter Roofing Blog Cover

Installing a roof in the winter is very different compared to installing one during the summer. There are a lot more precautions to focus on when trying to install a roof when the temperature drops. A customer can call and want a repair service and the roofing contractor realizes that they need a full roof replacement. Some homeowners may want to wait until the spring to get their roof replaced, but some situations call for an immediate replacement. A homeowner would have to consider this if the heating of the home is being affected by the damage for the winter season. Roofing in the winter can seem intimidating, however, taking the right precautions will make the process simple, safe, and painless. The good news is that most materials will perform up to a certain point with just a few tweaks to your technique. If you adjust your work style to construct a roof designed to last through cold temperatures, being careful to not damage the roofing materials, you can be sure that you can count on your new roof even during the harsh winter.

Do Roofing Contractors Work In The Winter?

Roofing contractors do work in the winter. You may be wondering, isn’t it dangerous for a roofer to work on top of your home in icy conditions? Roofing contractors need to work in the winter as well, and what you may not know is that some roofers actually prefer to work during the winter than in the summertime. When they are working on your roof during the summer time and it’s about 90 degrees outside, it is actually about 120 degrees on your roof. If your roof has an accumulation of snow, it would probably take about 30 minutes to an hour to get all of that snow off, depending on the size of your roof. After that is done, the roofing contractors can get to work.

Winter Roofing Contractor Safety

There are ways to carefully and safely take advantage of the business boosting benefits of working year-round, by understanding how to minimize the drawbacks of winter weather. Roofing contractors should follow safety standards published by the OSHA to ensure everyone’s safety. Never under any circumstances should a roofing contractor put your work before personal safety. Finishing a job is never worth risking a life, so when a roofing contractor deems it unsafe to work on your roof due to weather conditions, be sure to respect the limits.

Snow And Ice Make For Slippery Surfaces

Roof surfaces can become slick and slippery due to snow, ice, or frost. This means roofers must take extra precautions when working on a roof by wearing roof-fall protection equipment, working methodically and carefully, and wearing high-performance gear such as winter-rated work boots which have been tested for wet and cold conditions. 

A common winter consideration before starting a roofing project is the snow removal or de-icing of the roof surface after a storm. This requires extra time, extra caution, and different equipment of which workers need to be trained on, along with increased monitoring while the removal is taking place.  After all of that, the asphalt roofing manufacturers association warns, even on a freshly cleared roof, there may be nearly invisible ice or frost build-up on the roof or deck surface, which can make it extremely hazardous for anyone to work on. It is advisable to wait until the roof surface is free of ice and frost for safer roof installation. Ensure that the attic space is adequately ventilated. Often, what appears to be a roof leak is actually a considerable amount of moist interior air drifting up into a cold, improperly ventilated attic.

Snow Can Hide Hazards

Pay close attention to where you work and walk to ensure you don’t accidentally step on or fall through any hazards you may find on a roof such as a skylight, pipe, or any materials hidden under the accumulation. Make sure to clear surfaces before working and pay close attention to the location of objects while disposing of snow and ice.

Cold Weather Can Be Hard On The Body

Working in below temperatures can put a strain on the body, making your heart and lungs work harder, while at the same time putting the roofing contractor at an increased risk for hypothermia or frostbite. Roofers should work shorter hours, planned around the sunshine and warmer weather forecasts. Adjust the schedule to avoid uncomfortable cold temperatures and potential snow or ice storms. Roofing contractors should always wear layers of warm clothing that is breathable but provides ample coverage, hides exposed skin, and insulates against wind.

What Types of Roofs Can I Install In The Winter?

Now let’s get to the heart of the issue. Roofing materials all behave differently in conditions below 40 degrees. There are types of materials that should not be installed in these conditions and some that can be installed any time of year, regardless of the weather. 

Here’s what to do depending on your home’s roofing material.

Can I Install A Flat Roof In The Winter?

There are two flat roof systems that can be properly installed during the winter and they are PVC and TPO roofing systems.These thermoplastic single ply flat roofing products are mechanically installed and are hot air welded instead of using adhesives. However, with rubber roofs like EPDM, it is a completely different scenario when it comes to installing these systems. With a rubber roof, it should not be installed in temperatures below 40 degrees because the adhesives that seal it will freeze and not bond. Contractors who say they can and will conduct rubber roof projects are ignoring manufacturer suggestions and proceeding with this project can result in roof leaks and voided warranties. It is a good idea to hold off on winter roof replacement if you’re looking at rubber roofs until it gets a bit warmer to allow for proper adhesion of the roofing material.

Can I Install Asphalt Shingles In The Winter?

The short answer is that shingles can be installed in cold weather, however, there are some precautions that must be taken when it comes to the installation. Roofing contractors must be careful not to bend and crack the shingle.The asphalt material in the shingle may lose its flexibility and resistance as the temperature goes down. Therefore, it becomes harder to bend the shingles and to cut them straight. With that in mind, the shingles might end up being more brittle, which could cause the shingles to end up being overdriven by nails when using regular pressure in the system. However, with a professional roofing contractor, they would be extra cautious of that and would take their time to do it right. There are ways to deliver a proper installation during the winter.

Another important consideration is whether the cold weather application of the shingles will increase the chances of the shingles being blown off. The shingles are lined with an adhesive that most of the time requires the sun to activate to bond the shingles, which would in return prevent the wind catching them. Depending on the manufacturer, the glue may activate at different temperatures. The manufacturer may specify that the shingles will not bond properly due to temperatures below 40 degrees, therefore, the roofing contractor would have to apply an adhesive of some sort underneath every laminate shingle with a caulking gun and then press the shingles into the adhesive. Winter in North America can get pretty bad, which means asphalt shingles are also susceptible to ice dams, which are large ice formations along the eaves of roofs caused by poor ventilation or inadequate insulation in the attic. An ice and water shield membrane is a great method to prevent ice dam leaks, but it also requires the sun’s heat to properly adhere to the roof deck, so some of the same shortcomings may apply. In the end, roofing contractors must take these precautionary steps in order to help prevent wind from blowing the shingles away before there is sufficient heat for them to self-seal, as well as prevent any ice build up which would lead to leaks.

When roofers work on your roof they use so many different roofing tools. Generally, some are not affected by cold temperatures, however, there some tools such as nail guns and compressors that can be affected by the cold temperature. When air is compressed and is released into your roofing system, the humidity will turn the air into water. However, if it’s winter time and it’s freezing, that water would end up freezing in the airlines and reduce the airflow that the roofing contractor is trying to get in the roof. When it comes to nails, they need to be installed flush with the shingle, not overdriven or under driven.

Can I Install A Metal Roof In The Winter

Metal roofs can be installed in the winter without compromising quality. Cold conditions do not affect metal roofs since they won’t crack due to improper handling. They are designed to allow for expansion and contraction, so the outside temperatures won’t make a difference. Just be sure to use a premium breathable synthetic underlayment to combat moisture caused by poor ventilation and always upgrade intake and output ventilation whenever possible. Whether you need winter roof repair or replacement, metal roofs are safe during any season.

Be Considerate

Roofing contractors understand that you want your roof repair or replacement done as soon as possible so you can get back to your everyday life. However, understand the limitations that come with working on a roof during the winter season. A roofing contractor will work when they feel it is safe to do so and will make sure all the proper steps are taken to ensure the best quality for your roof. If a contractor denies doing any service due to winter weather, it is to make sure the quality of the work and materials are at their highest for your roof. Contact your local roofing contractor for more information on their winter weather roofing projects.

Polyurethane Foam vs Duro Last

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Spray Polyurethane Foam and Duro Last go head to head in the market, the reason being that they both have the same benefits for your commercial roof. However, some may say that Polyurethane Foam is better than Duro Last and some may say the opposite. Well, we are going to compare them both and see exactly product is more beneficial for your roof.

What is Spray Polyurethane Foam?

When talking about Polyurethane Foam, the question you might ask is, what is the sole purpose of Polyurethane and how can my commercial roof benefit from it? What are the benefits of installing the spray polyurethane foam roofing system and how would it outweigh the advantages of other roofing systems? Many manufactures use SPF simply because of the ease of installation, the impressive performance, affordability, and durability. Property owners love the idea of it because of the protection it provides for their roof. Some of the benefits that SPF provides are energy efficiency, durability, a seamless surface and it’s environmentally friendly. Sprayed Polyurethane Foam has been used as a commercial roofing and insulation material for over 20 years.

Energy Efficient Insulation

Spray Polyurethane Foam provides the highest level of insulation against air and moisture, it also provides that perfect thermal barrier. Therefore, spray polyurethane foam carries out as an air sealant, where it closes the spaces that would allow the air to escape and add dollars to monthly energy bills. Based on the Environmental Protection Agency’s Energy Star program they estimated that when adding insulation and sealing air leaks, you can save about 20 percent on your monthly bill. Among other roofing and wall insulation, it has the highest R-value per inch. When a system has a higher R-value that simply just means that there is greater insulating power.

Durability

When applying a Spray Polyurethane Foam roofing system it is able to improve a building’s strength and effective lifespan. When SPF is sprayed on to the surface it conforms and adheres to the material, which creates a strong bond to protect the roof. That layer of spray foam is seamless, which can eliminate the ability of water to seep through weak spots. Therefore, if there was to be a flood on your commercial roof where spray polyurethane foam was sprayed, it would be highly resistant to water damage. When spraying the foam in the cavities of the walls it increases the durability of the wall system because of the foam’s ability to conform and adhere to the surface and create a strong bond where it’s sprayed. One of the best qualities that spray foam has, is that it is able to expand and contract with the changing temperature. Roofing contractors would be able to install the SPF in any climate or harsh environment and it will not be at the mercy of the conditions. Thus, guaranteeing a strong and legitimate bond.

Seamless Surface

The way that roofing companies apply SPF is by a liquid through a high-pressure spray gun. When the liquid lands on a surface it ends up expanding, covering the entire roof over a large area. Doing this provides a seamless membrane that fills in the cracks, holes, corners, and crevices along the base of the roof. Because spray foam roofs have no seams, there is a less chance for water to leak through. Spray foam is a solid, seamless barrier that is able to protect your roof from moisture and air.

Environmentally Friendly

Spray Polyurethane Foam is an environmentally friendly alternative to fiber insulation, such as fiberglass or cellulose.  Spray foam insulation reduces the impact on the environment by using renewable resources and recycled plastic waste in their foams. Therefore, with the proper maintenance, your roofing contractor would be able to recycle the membrane of your roof whenever the time comes to replace your roof, and recycled materials would be used to create a spray foam. Also, keep in mind that Spray Polyurethane Foam insulation can improve the air quality by creating an impermeable air barrier against pollen, pollutants, and dust. With this, it makes it perfect for people who suffer from allergies, asthma or chemical sensitivity.

The Downside to SPF

We know that there are some great benefits to Spray Polyurethane Foam. However, here’s the downside, some people have poor thoughts on the spray foam because some commercial roofs were installed incorrectly using the foam insulation. This is one of the biggest reasons that there are negative reactions to the spray foam. To get the most benefits out of the Spray Polyurethane Foam roofing system, then your roofing contractor must install it correctly. Hiring a professional, certified roofing contractor would be able to provide your commercial roof with a special product that supply the savings in energy cost that SPF provides and they will reapply the SPF every ten years to ensure its quality. However, many believe that over time, these benefits will slowly disappear in comparison to the Duro Last roofing system. When compared to Duro Last, Duro  Last uses a white or grey membrane that reflects the UV rays from the sun without having something additional applied to it.

What is Duro Last?

What makes Duro Last equivalent to SPF? What benefits from Duro Last could potentially outweigh SPF? For starters, Duro Last roofing systems contain the highest quality materials and undergo demanding quality control checks during the manufacturing process. A Duro Last roofing system is a reinforced thermoplastic (PVC) single-ply membrane that would be a perfect fit for your commercial roof or industrial building that has a flat or low slope roof. It is said that the Duro Last roofing system can last longer than the spray polyurethane foam. There are elastomeric coatings for roofs that can be applied and reapplied that can help make the spray foam last longer.  When the PVC membrane is used and the ISO insulation is installed underneath the membrane, then Duro Last can last longer than the SPF. The only way that the spray foam can last longer than 20 years is if it is maintained and reapplied correctly. It would have to be recoated every ten years or so and would require a strict maintenance program in order to maintain all of its benefits. Duro Last offers a 15 and 20-year warranty on their products which many building owners prefer.

Prefabrication

With Duro Last, each roof is measured and manufactured to the exact size of the roof, accommodating for every rooftop penetration. When the Duro Last roof is prefabricated in the factory, it eliminates just about up to 80 percent of seaming that would’ve been done on-site during rooftop installation. Which in return improves the long-term performance of the roofing system. It is actually the only roof manufacturing company to offer prefabrication of the entire roofing system. Doing this provides an excellent fit and delivers leak-proof protection. A custom- fabricated Duro Last commercial roofing system is long-lasting and is one of the leaders in roof leak prevention.

Durability

Comparing Duro Last to SPF, the durability is quite similar in the sense that the Duro Last roofing system is resistant to any water damage. Duro Last has a custom flashing that is able to resist any ponding water, or collecting of water, which is very common in a commercial roof. Once the roof is installed, it is virtually maintenance-free, unlike other roofing materials that may require regular maintenance or other repairs. Not only is it resistant to ponding water, but it is also resistant to fire, chemicals, grease, high winds, and punctures. Just like the spray foam, Duro Last can easily accommodate for a wide range of temperatures.

Energy Efficient

The Duro Last roofing system has a white membrane that has the highest reflectivity retention of any single-ply membrane. Which means that you are able to save more money on cooling costs, very similar to Polyurethane Foam. Out of the white, single-ply products rated by the Energy Star program, Duro Last is the only roofing system that has a reflectivity retention of greater than 85 percent after three years of weathering. The sustained reflectivity rate is saving a lot of energy and money for building owners. The Duro Last roofing system is mechanically-attached, and insulation can be placed under the membrane during the installation of the roof, which would reduce the amount of heat loss in the winter.

SPF vs Duro Last: Which is Better?

Spray Polyurethane Foam is more costly than Duro Last because of the installation process. It is as easy as needing a piece of special equipment in order to install the spray foam, even to reapply it, but the special equipment is expensive to use. However, Duro Last is easy and quick to install as well without the required expense of high tech equipment to be used. Many know spray polyurethane foam is sprayed to secure the roof. Duro Last is installed with screws and plates which gives it that air and watertight fit. Duro Last can also be applied over EPDM rubber roofs, TPO single-ply, and metal roofs. It’s also affordable, plus it carries a longer lifespan and more benefits than polyurethane foam does. However, we are going to go against Duro Last a little. The reason being, that polyurethane foam can be applied to surfaces with irregular shapes and penetrations. Another benefit of SPF is that it can be applied over an existing roof, which eliminates the need for the cost of tearing off of an old roof. Sprayed Polyurethane Foam roofing systems are also much lighter than Duro Last. When placing the insulation on the outside, the foam insulation reduces building movement and thermal shock.  Spray Polyurethane Foam is one of the best insulators that a building owner can buy. Closed-cell SPF is the only insulating material that does not soak up water. Since SPF is applied to the roof surface, it is recommended for your commercial roof that your qualified roofing contractor assures the material’s integrity.

So is SPF better than Duro Last? Or is it the other way around? The decision comes down to the requirements of your project, your budget, and personal preference. Both roofing systems are high quality products that will ensure the quality and protection of your roof. It is important to sit down with your commercial roofing contractor and discuss the pros and cons of each of these methods to come to the best solution for your commercial roof.

What Could Go Wrong With Hiring the Wrong Contractor?

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The most expensive component of your home is your roof. If you’re thinking about getting a full roof replacement or even a repair job, the local roofing contractor that you consider hiring is not something that should be taken lightly. When you hire a good roofing contractor they will use top-quality roofing materials, the right roofing tools and equipment, and will provide professional installation techniques to ensure that the final result will add value to your home. However, some homeowner’s do, unfortunately, make the mistake of hiring the wrong contractor. The majority of homeowners have a horror story about a horrible contractor and their experience with them. Unfortunately, there’s no shortage of unqualified, unlicensed, or even scam artist roofers advertising their services. Hiring the wrong contractor can cause significant damage to your home and will cost a great deal of money to get it redone. 

What’s the real risk of bad contractors?

Hiring a good contractor is very important when you’re looking for the best quality for your home. A roof is what truly makes a place a home and a shelter from the elements. One of the most important indicators of a good roofing contractor is that they have the right credentials, for instance, valid insurance. A bad contractor won’t be able to provide you with valid insurance which most likely puts you, the homeowner, in a predicament. Let’s say that there was accidental damage to your home or someone got injured during the job, the matter can become ugly without having any insurance. 

Another issue that should be considered is the warranties provided on both the labor and the materials used. If you are only covered for one and not the other, if something is amiss you will end up paying out of pocket for work and materials you already paid for. One of the biggest issues with hiring the wrong roofing contractor is that it can result in a financial disaster. Even though you may pay more for a quality roofing contractor and quality home repair work, it’s worth every penny in the end. A great deal isn’t always a great deal in the long run.

Using a roofing contractor without a license 

Knowing that getting a roof done can be extremely expensive, a full roof replacement can cost upwards of $10,000 and a lot more on a larger building or commercial roof. Therefore, some property owners decide to go to a local roofing contractor who would charge for less. Which in many cases result in having a local roofing contractor who is unlicensed. Unlicensed roofing contractors are often likely to be less expensive than those who are properly licensed and insured. 

Unfortunately, taking this kind of financial shortcut with choosing a cheaper contractor could cost you a lot more than you realized. Therefore, when choosing a roofing contractor the first thing that you should do is make sure that they are licensed. Contractors who don’t have the proper training, knowledge, and expertise to be working on roofs may try to take roofing jobs without a license because they don’t have the necessary skills to become licensed. Going with a contractor like this means that you would be trusting your roof with someone that is going to do an inferior job. Poor workmanship often leads to more expensive repairs down the road where you need to have the original work redone. Depending upon where you live, hiring an unlicensed roofing contractor could also land you in hot water legally as well. If your unlicensed contractor fails to complete the job, you may be prevented from using them. And in some states, hiring an unlicensed roofing contractor can carry fines up to $5,000 as well, which could lead your cost-cutting techniques to backfire in a big way. 

Lack of Certification

Many manufacturers that provide roofing products and shingles, such as GAF, offer certification to roofers. When a local roofing contractor has certification it means that the roofer has learned the necessary things to properly install their products. This often makes them a candidate for offering extended manufacturer’s warranties. A roofer who isn’t taking the time to get a proper state license would unlikely follow-through on a manufacturer certification as well. Therefore, it’s more than likely that you’re hiring an amateur who is untrained in installing the specific roofing materials that they are putting on your roof. And if something were to go wrong, you won’t be covered by the extended warranties that can help give you peace of mind and offset the cost of future repairs. 

You may be liable for unpaid bills

Unlicensed local roofing contractors typically may fail to pay their subcontractors or their suppliers after the work is done. Unfortunately, that may leave you in the position of needing to pay them, even if you’ve already paid for the work in full. This can result in a lien being put on your property until you settle the bills. Remember, you often can’t take an unlicensed roofing contractor to court, so you have no recourse to pursue him if he doesn’t pay his bills. 

Mechanic’s Lien

A lien is a notice attached to your property informing everyone that you owe the creditor money. It may seem essentially unfair that you can possibly end up paying for the general contractor’s irresponsible behavior. The justification for allowing the mechanic’s lien in the first place is that between the person with an improved property which would be you the homeowner and the person who supplied your new roof, the supplier’s need to get paid is greater. The law also concludes that you can, in turn, sue the general contractor. While this is true, this doesn’t really help you in the short-run. Suppose a supplier places a mechanic’s lien against your house because the general contractor failed to pay him when the general contractor lost all his money. You can certainly go file a lawsuit against the general contractor, and over time maybe garnish his wages or force him to sell his property, but that takes time and wringing money out of someone who doesn’t pay his subcontractors and suppliers can be difficult. Meanwhile, you owe twenty thousand dollars and have a matter of days or months to pay the supplier or else your house will be sold to satisfy the mechanic’s lien against you. 

How do you protect yourself against a mechanic’s lien?

Here are three ways to help protect you and your investment:

  • Make sure you have a list of all the subcontractors, laborers and material suppliers that your primary contractor will be using, and ask for proof that everyone has been paid before releasing your final payment, otherwise you could be held liable.
  • Before making any partial or final payment to your contractor, ask for a Release of Lien or Partial Release of Lien and Affidavit. This just simply means that it reduces the amount claimed to be owed.  These will either indicate that the contractor has paid all laborers or list out who is still owed money and how much. If you pay the subcontractor or laborers directly, make sure to get a release of lien.
  • Even if your state doesn’t require a written agreement, ask for one. Also, keep in mind that contract requirements vary by state. It should be clear and concise and include the who, what, where, when and cost of your project. It’s not a bad idea to have an attorney review the contract before you present one or sign one. 

Can a homeowner file a lien against a contractor?

Not all mechanic’s liens that contractors file against a homeowner to secure payment are right. Sometimes, there can be a genuine dispute between the contractor, subcontractor, and/or owner about what exactly is owed and due. However, there are some instances where there is a subcontractor, contractor or even a supplier who exaggerates the amount of the lien that they filed. There can be a case where the lien amount is intentionally exaggerated, or filed with no legal basis. When dealing with a frivolously filed mechanics lien, there are some states that have legislation that specifically prohibits willfully exaggerated liens. New Jersey for instance, has a statute that creates liability for those who file such liens. They can face damages and penalties, and their lien can be stricken. 

No permissions or permits

If a local roofing contractor is willing to work without pulling a building permit or completing the proper inspections, he’s not doing so to save your time or money. It’s typically because he is not qualified to pull the roofing permit, or he knows that he is doing sub-par work that won’t pass inspection. Whether performing re-roofing or new construction, when a contractor does not pull permits you are at risk for penalties, code compliance issues, possible tear out, the cost of rework and potentially the loss of a home sale. Depending on the type of roofing job, and whether the homeowner chooses the do it yourself option or hires a contractor, certain scopes of work will require construction permits. Failure to obtain necessary construction permits by either you or your contractor may become a safety issue or an unexpected expense far in excess of the cost of the original building permit. 

When you hire the wrong contractor the majority of the time they don’t pull permits for the scope of work required and so the homeowner becomes the responsible party, often with no penalty to the hired contractor. The local governing authority establishes how penalties are assessed. For instance, penalties can range from charging a homeowner double the original fee for tearing out the complete work for an inspection. While passing off unpermitted renovations to a potential unsuspecting home buyer is nothing new, the seller’s maneuver will often be exposed by a qualified home inspector. If discovered, you may be required to provide evidence of valid permits for the work on a file with the local governing authority. 

While a reputable contractor will complete the necessary steps to obtain a building permit and local city, county, or state permission for the jobs completed, an unlicensed contractor won’t. This can mean major problems down the road should you decide to sell your home. Even if you don’t sell, you could be held liable should something bad happen on your property due to faulty and illegal construction practices.

How to Help Prevent Roof Fires & Fire Damage

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Roof Fires Cover

We understand that fires are one of the most unpredictable hazards that can happen in a home. We also understand that no one can prepare for everything that could come at them in life, but we like to think that these few tips on how to help prevent roof fires and fire damage could potentially save some sanity. These are not foolproof techniques that guarantee that no fire will happen in your home, but they are necessary steps that help decrease your risk for a roof fire and should be taken into consideration when inspecting or installing your roof.

Many may think that their roof is only the finishing touches that they need for their home, however, that’s not true. Your roof protects you, your family and everything that you own and is an essential piece to your home. If your roof becomes damaged, however, then it is not going to be able to provide that much-needed protection. As a homeowner, you should remember that roof fires can seriously damage homes and is an extreme threat to you. Fires often start without warning, as most attics do not come with a smoke detector installed. Let’s talk about how you as a homeowner can take the proper steps necessary to protect yourself, and your home from fire and the damage that comes with it. Here are the most important tips for preventing roof fires and limiting the potential damage caused by a roof fire:

Keeping Your Chimney Clean

If your home has a fireplace, then perhaps one of the most important steps you can take towards preventing roof fires is to clean your chimney regularly. Over time, a combustible layer of material known as creosote will start to form inside the chimney, which can easily catch fire if ignited by a spark. Creosote is simply a dark brown or black flammable tar which is deposited from wood smoke on the walls of your chimney. During the wintertime, your fireplace is used quite often, therefore, this material can build up quite frequently and leave open the possibility for a fire. It is highly recommended that your chimney is cleaned at least once a year before the start of winter so you can avoid any future fire damage.

Inspect Electrical Wiring / Leaky Roof

Electrical wiring is the leading cause of attic and roof fires. Usually, the number of cases of these fires is higher in the months where there is an increased use of light and heating appliances. It’s highly recommended having your electrical wiring inspected by a professional, especially if your home is an older home, or if you suspect that your home may have faulty wiring. We suggest that you keep a lookout for signs of flickering bulbs and light fixtures that unexpectedly fail to turn on. The reason is that these problems can be caused by burned wires in your attic and one wrong spark could be problematic.

Roof leak repairs should also be a major priority since water damage is a potential fire hazard.  Roof leaks can lead to electrical malfunctions in the attic as well as leading to wire shorting issues. Many may expect the wires that are protected by junction boxes and insulation materials to be completely safe, however, that is definitely not the case. It is possible that water can seep around the hinges of a junction box or insulation clumps when left exposed to water. Be aware that if a live wire comes in contact with water, it can cause a spark and ignite the materials around it. So make sure you have any signs of water damage inspected by a certified roof inspector.

Ceiling Insulation

You may see ceiling insulation and might automatically think that having ceiling insulation is a fire hazard. Well, this isn’t necessarily the case, fire hazards in the ceiling are not caused by the insulation itself, however, it is caused by the way it was installed or the way an electrical cable was installed alongside the pre-existing insulation. When you’re getting your roof or ceiling inspected, investigators would look to see if your roofing material property is lacking sufficient insulation around the vent pipe for generators. Roof fires can be caused by a lack of sufficient insulation around the vent pipe and when that happens, the heat coming from the vent pipes deteriorates the roofing material over time. In return, in combination with high winds, an event like this would ignite a fire causing critical fire damage to your roof and home. A roofing contractor should ensure that your ceiling insulation is not fitted too close to a heat source, which will also ensure your home’s fire resistance.

Choose a Fire Resistant Roofing Material

Before choosing a fire resistant roofing material, you should understand what it means to have a fire resistant roof. Roofing materials are categorized to their relative fire resistance because it helps roofing contractors distinguish the safety level of the different fireproof materials. Depending on how flammable your roof is will determine how much fire damage a roof can withstand, therefore, the type of roofing material you choose is critical when thinking about the fire resistance of your roof and home. Roofing materials come in different fire resistant classes, with Class A being the most fire resistant. 

Depending on your roofing material, it will determine how flammable your roof is and how much fire damage it can withstand. Roofing materials come in different fire retardant classes, with unrated or C being the lowest class, and Class A being the most fire resistant. If your roof is getting up there in years and it’s almost time for a replacement, then make sure that your new roof is installed with Class A roofing materials. If you live in an area that is prone to wildfires, then you should also consider a fire resistant underlayment. Your local roofing contractor will be able to let you know what your options are and what material will be best for your roof and safety. 

Now you may be wondering what are the most fire resistant roofing materials. The resistance to fire for roofing materials is rated based on a series of test that is defined by a fire rating. A reliable roofer will be able to find the right option to match your style and budget while maintaining your safety. There are a few different materials on the market that are effective in withstanding fire damage.

Before getting into the different fire resistant roofing materials, we should understand how the fire ratings work first. Knowing what the fire rating for roofs is about will help you better understand when choosing the right fire resistant material for your roof. As mentioned before fire ratings for roofing materials are classified as either Class A, Class B, Class C or are unrated if a roofing material cannot meet the requirements for any of the classifications. Class A is the highest fire rating, offering the highest fire resistance, and unrated being the worst. Examples of Class A roof coverings include concrete or clay roof tiles, fiberglass asphalt composition shingles, slate, and metal roofs. An example of an unrated roof covering is an untreated wood shake roof. If wood shakes and shingles are saturated with fire retardant chemicals, they meet the requirements for a Class B fire rating and can meet a Class A rating if additional materials are included in the roof’s assembly. 

A standard fire test is used to determine the fire rating of a roof covering material. This test evaluates the following performances:

  1. Flame penetration through the roof covering into the attic space
  2. Flame spread over the surface of the roof covering
  3. And the propensity for the roof covering to become dislodged and generate embers.

Metal Roofing

Metal roofing is made of a material that does not ignite when on fire with a fire resistant barrier with a Class A protection. Most metal roofs are made of steel, zinc, copper, and alloys that are best for a dry environment. The benefit of metal tiles is that they are non-corrosive and sit strong on houses with a steep slope. If you have the budget, metal sheets can be designed to look like cedar shake or other materials while maintaining its fire resistant properties.  Metal roofing is one of the few roofing materials that are truly fire resistant. 

Concrete / Clay Roof Tiles

Clay is inherently fire resistant and can easily disperse heat. When the material is installed properly it achieves a Class A fire safety rating. Many homeowners usually don’t go with clay tiles because it’s a tad more expensive compared to shingles, however, clay tiles are still affordable. They are also extremely durable and have a good lifespan. Clay roof tiles are also known to withstand extreme weather conditions including high winds. The curved shape of the clay tiles allows for ventilation. Therefore, hot air isn’t trapped by clay tiles during hot temperature events, and their heavy thermal mass helps insulate your home during colder temperatures. Concrete roof tiles share most of these properties as they are also heavy, durable and fireproof. 

Fiberglass-Based Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are a commonly used roofing material. What you should know is that the shingles you typically find on your roof are normal asphalt shingles, which are fire resistant on their own. Now, when it’s combined with fiberglass underlayment the structure becomes even more fire resistant making it a Class A fire rating. Plus, asphalt shingles require little maintenance and are quite durable. Though it requires less maintenance, it is important to take care of this type of roofing because of the fact that heavy winds can blow off the shingles which in the end would leave exposures in your roof that can make the roof vulnerable to water and fire damage. Keep in mind that although asphalt shingles are fire resistant, they are still flammable. They will withstand an external fire very well, however, if the fire happens to start on the inside of the home the fire is very likely to reach the roof and the shingles may burn.

Slate Tiles

Slate, although it is a heavy and thick roofing material, it’s naturally resistant to fire. The thickness of the material is part of what helps it achieve Class A rating because it’s not easily chipped where fire can penetrate through. Slate is a lot more expensive than asphalt or metal, but slate will last you a very long time and maintain your home’s protection throughout its life.  

The Importance of Roof Flashing

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Roof Flashing

What is Roof Flashing?

Roof flashing provides protection for different areas of your roof and works in conjunction with your roofing material. Flashing is applied to roofing corners and valleys, as well as objects that jut out through your roof. So let’s talk about what exactly is roof flashing. How does it work? Where is it used? And the different roof flashing types such as counter flashing or step flashing.

Flashing is usually built out of metal, but it may contain steel, zinc, copper, aluminum, and even plastic or rubber. Flashing is used to keep roof components waterproof and prevent any damage. Without flashing, roof components such as the junctions between walls, dormers, or chimneys may come into contact with water which can saturate, leak, and damage the component or the structure of the house. In short, the roof flashing keeps the integrity of your home intact.

The way that flashing works is by connecting to various roofing components, and it can be overlapped and connected with one another in order to keep leaks from penetrating the roof or any of the structures on your roof. Flashing can be installed with nails, glue, and caulking in order to keep your roof waterproof.

Roof flashing installation occurs throughout your roof, including all of the following places:

  • Valleys and Joints – the joints found throughout your roof structure are more susceptible to penetration from water, as are roof valleys. Roof joints often aren’t watertight, and roof valleys collect more water than the rest of the roof. The roof flashing ensures that these critical areas of your roof are protected. 
  • Roof Protrusions – If there’s anything jutting out of your roof, there should be flashing to protect it. If, for instance, you have cables that tie into a satellite that’s installed on your roof, flashing can protect the opening for the satellite cables free from water and prevent any future damage. 
  • Drip Edging – Drip edging is flashing that is applied to the edges of roofs where there aren’t gutters. Think of drip edging as a specialized roof flashing at the edge of your roof that acts as guides to prevent water from getting behind gutters and ensure that all water is directed away from your roof. 
  • Chimneys – Chimney flashing is necessary since water can run through and collect right at the base of a chimney. Chimney flashing should be installed at the base of your chimney to keep water from infiltrating the joint between your roof and your chimney. 
  • Pipes – It’s likely that your roof has a few pipes that penetrate the surface of your home. For instance, you probably have drain-waste vents which keeps the pressure from building up in your plumbing. These pipes can compromise a waterproof roof if they are left unprotected. Specialized “pipe boots”, which work exactly as it sounds, can be placed around these pipes in order to protect your roof. 
  • Kickouts – Kickout flashing is installed at the lowermost joint between your roof and your wall. The kickout flashing, also known as diverter flashing, diverts rainwater away from your wall and into your gutter to avoid any kind of saturation leaks in your roof.

If you have ever noticed that there are any leaks coming from around your chimney or vent, most likely your flashing was not installed correctly or is no longer sufficient. The main purpose of roof flashing is to protect your home from moisture & saturation. The flashing extends below your roofing and adjacent to siding to create a solid, weatherproofing seal on your home to protect you from the elements. It is also much more durable and lasts longer than trying to seal or caulk around the spaces. Before sheet products were available, builders had to use different methods to try to minimize water penetrations. These methods included angling roof shingles away from the joints, installing chimneys at the ridge, and building steps off to the sides of chimneys to divert water.

Furthermore, roof flashing is less susceptible to temperature variations. If and when the other components of your roof shift slightly, due to expansion from heat or ice, the flashing will still be able to act as a barrier from the elements. If you have any concerns or thoughts that you could be having leaks call your local roofing contractor.

Flashing also adds a clean, finished look to your roof. There are areas of roofs and exterior walls that are more susceptible to leaks and water damage such as the valleys or junctions where roof sections or walls meet. It is usually installed around structures that intersect with the roofline such as dormers, skylights, vents, and chimneys. Flashing comes in a variety of materials to accommodate the desired look for the consumer. Although you may see rubber or plastic flashing out in the market, metal flashing is the more prominent kind of flashing. One of the most common types of metal flashing material used is aluminum because it is usually the most cost-effective, durable, and weather-resistant.

Counter Flashing

For starters, counter flashing is only one type of flashing and is a technique that is used to help prevent moisture from penetrating into a home behind the vertical flange of a headwall or sidewall flashing. Pieces of metal are installed in order to prevent water from passing through a structure at its joint and ensure the water is directed away from the structure. Sometimes the material used, such as vinyl, for the exterior wall siding will be enough to serve as counter flashing itself and other times a separate element is installed. This is especially important in a structure where walls are either brick or stone. The counter flashing installation process is one of the most important parts of completing any roofing system. This type of flashing should be used in conjunction with base and step flashing, to help form a waterproof barrier.

counter flashing
Counter Flashing

The waterproof membrane is the first layer that is laid down before the shingles are installed, called the base flashing. This membrane not only covers the first layer of the roof but also gets turned up the nearby walls or chimneys to help with the flashing process of any joints or valleys between structures. Next, L-shaped pieces of metal, typically aluminum, are placed under each shingle that is installed next to a vertical wall. One side of the L-shaped aluminum flashing lays underneath the shingle while the other side attaches up against the side of the wall. This layer is called the step flashing.

In contrast to step flashing, the next layer is installed as a continuous strip. It is installed either behind or on top of the wall adjacent to the shingles and covers the step flashing. This final layer is called counter, cover or cap flashing and most commonly consists of aluminum or galvanized steel, but is also seen made with copper, tin or even plastic. Depending on the situation, a roof with step flashing installed could sufficient in itself when combined with vinyl siding that can double as counter flashing as long as the step flashing goes underneath it. Otherwise, counter flashing is a critical requirement for all roofs.

Counter Flashing Installation Methods

Counter flashing installation can be done using one of three techniques. The first is through-wall counter flashing, which secures the flashing material to the wall cavity and the exterior siding or masonry covers it. This type of installation is only plausible during a new construction project; otherwise, it typically proves to be cost-prohibitive.

The second technique used to install counter flashing is called surface-mount flashing. This technique attaches the flashing to the exterior siding by using a sealant, typically caulk, to seal the top of the surface-mount flashing. It’s the least expensive method of installation, however, the caulk seal will need to be monitored and eventually repaired or replaced over time because it will inevitably break down.

Reglet flashing is the compromise between through-wall and surface-mount flashing. A cut is made into the exterior masonry at a 90-degree angle and the flashing material is secured in the groove made by the 90-degree cut and bent down to run parallel the exterior masonry. Although it is a more expensive and invasive technique than the surface-mount flashing, reglet flashing does not need maintenance and will last much longer than a sealant. Because of this, reglet flashing is a more convenient, long-lasting option and is recommended over the surface-mounted flashing.

Counter Flashing at Brick Headwalls and Sidewalls

Installing headwall and sidewall flashing correctly becomes more time consuming when the exterior wall covering is brick or stone.“Time-consuming” can mean “more expensive”, which is why a lot of the counter flashing you’ll see at brick and stone walls will be incorrectly installed and will solely rely on some sort of sealant to prevent moisture intrusion. Sealant eventually dries, shrinks and cracks, leaving room for moisture intrusion and future water damage. This is why it is recommended to install regret flashing to ensure the most protection from moisture intrusion.

Step Flashing

step flashing
Step Flashing

Step flashing is an L-shaped piece of metal, typically aluminum or galvanized steel, and is used where a sloped roof intersects a vertical wall. Step flashing is interwoven with the shingles and act essentially as shingles with an unturned leg to allow a transition of the vertical drainage plane of the wall to the drainage plane of the roof. One side of the L-shaped step flashing is behind the vertical drainage plane or sealed to it with some sort of sealant and/or sheathing tape. The bottom leg of the step flashing is placed over the roof drainage plane. A critical component of the step flashing is the piece that is at the end of the slope of the roof is called the kickout flashing. This roof flashing directs water away from the adjoining wall and ensures that the step flashing is not collecting water on the surface of that wall.

Is Continuous Flashing Better Than Step Flashing?

Continuous flashing is sometimes seen where a roof meets a sidewall instead of step flashing, but in the long run, step flashing will do a better job of preventing water leaks. 

Step flashing redirects the water back onto the shingle and away from valleys and joints. Even if one piece of step flashing fails, the next flashing and shingle below it start the process over again, providing a system to protect your roof from water damage. Continuous flashing against a sidewall is one way to install flashing on a roof, but it’s not the correct way. Some may think that a single piece of flashing would offer more protection than many pieces of step flashing, but it doesn’t work that way. Once even a small section of the continuous flashing fails, you’ll have a leak. Each additional rainstorm will add more water, and before you know it, you’ve got rotted wood and a roof inspector in your home.

Step flashing offers far better protection from leaks because even if a single piece of step flashing fails, the water just hits the next step of the flashing. The flashing then directs the water onto the shingle and the water drains down the roof.

Kickout Flashing

Kickout flashing which can also be called diverter flashing is a special type of flashing installed at the edge of the flashing that diverts rainwater away from the cladding and into the gutter. When your roofing contractor installs kickout flashing properly, the flashing will provide excellent protection against the penetration of water behind the exterior wall covering where the flashing ends. Kickout flashing is required regardless of the roofing material excluding brick or concrete block.

Kickout Flashing
Kickout Flashing

Yes, there can be several factors that can lead to rainwater intrusion, but a missing kickout flashing, in particular, often results in concentrated areas of water accumulation and potentially severe damage to exterior walls. If you happen to find saturation and possibly plant growth on the exterior siding of your home, you may have missing kickout flashing causing the water damage.

Apron Flashing

Apron flashing is the metal that covers the transition between a roof slope and a roof penetration such as a dormer or chimney. Having this flashing properly installed is crucial in protecting some of the most vulnerable areas of your roofing system.

apron flashing
Apron Flashing

Apron flashing is usually applied as part of the two-piece roofing system. The apron is the lower L shaped piece that replaces the normal step flashing, which covers the roofing material and extends up the vertical surface of the roof penetration. The second part of the system is something we’ve touched one, which is the counter flashing that extends parallel from the vertical surface and covers the vertical leg of the apron flashing.

The Importance

Now that you have had a breakdown of the important role that roof flashing plays when it comes to the protection of your roof, it is easy to see why it is needed on almost all roofing projects. Without roof flashing, our roofs would be much more susceptible to water damage, costing homeowners thousands of dollars in repair or replacement. So when having your next roof inspected or installed, be sure that your flashing is properly installed by your local roofing contractor to ensure the best protection for your roof.

New Year’s Roof Resolutions

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The Infinite Roofing Team is reminding homeowners and business owners of the importance of the roof over their heads. Your roof is one of the most important parts of your home or business, both aesthetically and functionally, so it makes perfect sense to keep a close eye on it to keep it in good health. We’re recommending that you add your roof to this year’s list of important New Year’s Resolutions.

Scheduling A Professional Inspection 

Most homeowners and business owners are unable to spot faults on their own in a roofing system until it’s too late or until water has penetrated the surface. Therefore, by scheduling an inspection with your local roofing contractor, they can help pinpoint any potential problems before it is too late. The point of having a roofing contractor is so that they can provide a complete and thorough inspection of your roofing system. As a homeowner possibly without very much roofing experience, it would be much harder for you to spot any problems than a trained and experienced professional. A professional roofing contractor could find any leaks, roof membrane damage, and membrane deterioration. Your local roofing contractor can also give you advice and recommendations on how you can improve the safety, longevity and durability of your roofing system.

Think of a roof inspection as a preventative measure that could save you thousands of dollars in per year. A professional roof inspection can reveal structural weaknesses in your roof, deficiencies, or damage that can lead to much more expensive roof repairs if left unchecked. A roof inspection also includes a thorough check-up of your home’s ceilings and interior walls for possible water infiltration such as ceiling tile stains, incorrect roof flashing, excessive debris, and curb or pipe penetrations. A comprehensive roof inspection can catch membrane deterioration early and have it fixed, if possible.

Make your new year’s goal, getting your roof checked at least twice per year! Some warranties won’t be completed without a thorough roofing inspection by a reputable local roofing contractor. Roof penetrations and incorrect flashing could potentially void the manufacturer’s roof warranty. Deterioration and damage can lead to premature roof leaks and cause serious emergency situations or disruption to your property. Preventative action always pays off! Therefore, we strongly recommend that you make scheduling a professional roof inspection a New Year’s Resolution.

Keep An Eye On Your Gutters

It’s critical to keep your gutters in working order to allow water overflow to drain from your roofing system. You want to ensure that water flows away from your roof without pooling in corners. You can also check your gutters to find out if you have significant and threatening shingle or tile breakage as well. The role of gutters is to route rainwater away from your home. It can be difficult for homeowners to identify minor gutter issues before they become full-blown failures. Neglect leads to clogs, which can cause leaks in the gutters. These leaks typically form at the joints, at the areas where gutters lengths and downspout meet. These areas are often sealed using a sealant, which can get worn out due to weather exposure. Gutters will also tend to overflow if clogged, so cleaning them regularly at least twice a year is important. Holes from rust spots are yet another source of leaks and can develop from the smallest exposed metal surfaces.

Water pooling around your home’s foundation is the biggest risk you would face when neglecting your gutters. This weakens the ground that the foundation sits on, which could cause the house to settle inappropriately. Also, your home’s foundation is made of concrete and concrete absorbs water. Water pooling around the foundation due to faulty gutters can weaken the foundation, causing irreparable damage. The fascia boards that hold the gutters in place could get damaged as well. The exposed wood will begin to rot if soaked in water. Gutter hangers could come loose, necessitating a complete gutter replacement.

Replace Missing Shingles Or Tiles

If your home or business has loose or missing shingles or tiles, you may wind up facing much more than an aesthetic problem. With missing or damaged shingles or tiles, your roof is much less likely to remain weatherproof. 

When shingles from your roof fall from their adhesive backing or nails give out, they leave the insulating and adhesive layers open to the elements. This exposure can cause roof leaks, structural damage, weatherproofing damage and dry rot. Even if the open patch of a roof is small, average amounts of rainfall are enough to soak the layers between the exposed area of your roof and the inside of your home. Unwanted wetness in your home will cause roof damage as well as weaken floorboards, soak the insulation, and let moisture into your foundation. 

Over time, the water from roof leakage can weaken your home’s structural beams and foundation, causing much larger, permanent problems. If your support beams fail to provide support for the weight of your house, you may experience foundation cracking, roof caving, and wall breakage.

Dry and hot as well as frequently changing weather conditions will stretch, condense, and water down the weatherproofing and adhesive layers beneath your roof tile. After these layers are exposed to dry air and direct sunlight due to missing shingles, they will lose their protective properties. 

In hot weather areas, unprotected parts of your roof will experience dry, scorching air throughout the entire day. The air saps the moisture from places that need oil and moisture to function properly, causing them to expand without pliability. They will crack and weaken, leaving them vulnerable to breakage. These problems can also occur in combination. When they do, small problems with over-dryness or excessive moisture can cause much larger problems for the entirety of your house. 

Since residential and commercial roofs in the region have to put with so much constantly changing weather, the cause of slipped, broken, and missing roof tiles or shingles can be one of a combination of the following:

  • Wind – Even if your roof is built with consideration for wind damage, strong, gusting winds can still pull shingles from their place if the come with enough force. 
  • Trauma- Unusual weather events such as hail, rainstorms, or blizzards can pull tiles from their place. Tiles will slowly weaken and break from too much impact.
  • Dryness- Most types of roofing require moisture to stay weatherproof and secure. Droughts and severely hot weather will pull that necessary moisture from the tiles.
  • Weakening- Underlayment and sheathing underneath your tiles will start to give in to the elements over time. This allows your shingles to slip and opens them up to damage.


Consider Roof Cleaning

Cleaning your roof not only helps to please the eye, but it also helps in keeping it in efficient working order. Eliminating leaf and debris buildup can reduce the risk of mold and mildew that can seriously threaten the functionality of your roofing system. 

Roof cleaning is commonly overlooked, however, when the siding of your home is dirty or the paint is peeling, it becomes an obvious sign that it is time for maintenance. However, the roof of your home tends to be a bit more out of the line of sight. As they say— “Out of sight, out of mind”. What many homeowners fail to consider is that a roof that is not properly cleaned and maintained can lead to damage which will shorten the lifespan of perhaps the most important protective feature of your home. 

Your roof is exposed to the elements all day, every day. Dirt and debris will collect on it. Natural rainfall is typically enough to wash off the appearance of most superficial dirt. However, the dark stains and green areas that appear on your roof are caused by other natural elements. Some of these elements are algae, lichens, and moss.

If you have ever noticed any black stains on your roof, these stains are a growth called algae. Algae feed off both asphalt and limestone roofing in moist, cool and shaded areas of your roof. When there is minimal light, algae forms a blue-green color. The more shaded areas of the roof are more likely to have this algae, which can also harbor various types of molds. This explains why some roofs are stained only on one side. These algae spores are transported by wind or animals and can quickly spread from rooftop to rooftop in neighborhoods of single-family homes, townhomes, apartments and commercial complexes.

Lichens are essentially a combination of algae and fungus. Lichens are a fungus that grows along with algae. These plant-like organisms from a branching growth of root-like tentacles that penetrate deep into the shingle’s base for nourishment. Lichens are tough to remove from the roof and can reappear from humidity and rain. 

Unlike algae and lichens, moss is an actual plant. Moss has a shallow root system and requires a lot of moisture to survive. Areas with less sunlight remain damp longer. Overhanging tree branches not only provide more shade, but they also drop debris that serves as a food source for moss. Like algae, moss spores are often transferred by wind or animals and can easily spread throughout neighborhoods. 

The staining and growth patches caused by algae, fungi and moss can damage your roof through shingle deterioration and wood rot. Both lead to expensive repairs and can shorten the life of your roof. A thorough, professional roof cleaning can help minimize or reverse this damage.

Use these top roofing tips to get the year started right. Happy New Year from the Infinite Roofing team.

Safety Tips for Christmas Decorations on Your Roof

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The very best of holidays to you and yours! Infinite Roofing, as your local roofing contractors, want you and your family to be safe and sound this year and we offer this disclaimer: No one should try to attempt hanging Christmas lights when snow or ice is visible on the ground or on the roof, or during wet weather conditions.

Homeowners should follow all local roofing and safety codes, and ensure their own safety whenever they go up on a rooftop this year. We strongly advise that no homeowner should stand or walk on a roof without taking the proper precautions. If you really have to walk and stand on the roof this Christmas, take care to avoid damaging to your roof and shingles. We recommend that you always have someone assist you during the entire installation process, even just to keep a watchful eye.

The holiday is fast approaching and people are getting into the Christmas spirit, which means many Capital Region homeowners are thinking about all those amazing lights and eye-catching decorations. Fantastic, large-scale displays featuring holiday lights and decorations are more popular now than ever before. Neighborhoods are lighting up with outdoor lights, from yard displays to festooned trees, to lights all over the house exterior. However, please remember that if installed incorrectly, these electric lights and decorations can also be dangerous and it is important to address any safety issues so that your decorations are able to hold up during the extreme local winter conditions we may receive.

When dealing with your holiday decorations, it is very important that you set everything up in a way that does not damage your roof and put you or anyone else in harm’s way. Rooftop holiday decorations and lights can add a special touch to your roof. However, installing these decorations, especially electric lights, and moving apparatus can be very dangerous.

Roof Safety

Before you start any roof lighting projects, any experienced local roofing contractor will remind you to always put safety first. No matter what your roof safety plan is, it’s important to have someone on hand while you work. They can manage your tools and hand you supplies and decorations so that you’re completely focused on the task at hand. They can help you use the ladder safely by holding the ladder to steady it.  Unless you are decorating the chimney or the ridge at the top of your roof, you really should not need to walk on your roof, which can be very dangerous and needs some knowledge as well as additional safety equipment. Great displays are ones people see from the street level, so it’s not really necessary to go above the eave line to have a beautifully decorated roof.

If you do have to step on any portion of the roof surface, or even just in general for working from a ladder, wear sturdy gym shoes that have a good grip and are easy on the roof surface. You really don’t want to have to call in your local roofing contractors prematurely in the New Year, but even worse would be if you or a loved one ended up requiring medical attention for not taking appropriate precautions.

Check your Holiday Lights and Equipment 

Another top Infinite Roofing tip for the best roofing safety practice with your Christmas lights is to make sure that all your lighting strands are in good working order and that you have enough of them to cover the area you plan to illuminate. Of course, you must check and make sure they are all rated for outdoor use. Draw up a thorough plan to best install any holiday lights you have on hand. Lay the strands of lights out in your home a few days before you plan to install them. Look for any frayed wires that could be a fire hazard. Now’s a good time to replace broken or missing strands of bulbs. Promptly get rid of any strands that aren’t up to par, it’s not worth the risk!

Protect your Roof & Shingles

Before installing your lights on the roof, be sure to stock up on plastic clips or hooks on hand for attaching the lights to the eaves or gutters.  Plastic clips have a far less damaging effect on your roof compared to nails or metal hooks. Having outdoor extension cords where you need them to be is important and makes it easier for you to get everything lit up when it’s time. You can attach the light strands to shingles, eaves or gutters. One really important thing is to not hang anything heavy along with the lights because this can cause damage to the components of your roof. If you find extremely loose gutters or fixtures, get them repaired before hanging lights on them, as they may further loosen or fall down during harsh winter weather, taking all your decorations with them.  Using nails that would put a hole in your roof is a huge no! The structure of your roof is vital and any little hole can eventually lead to a much larger hole and allow moisture to seep into the roof. Plastic lighting clips are very simple and inexpensive. Most hardware stores carry these clips around their lighting and tree displays. You can also use plastic zip ties which will not harm your roof fixtures. If you plan to put heavy displays on the roof be sure they are secured with something that doesn’t pierce the roof so they don’t fall down and damage the roof in a high wind. 

Types of Christmas Light Roof Clips & Roof Fasteners 

When you’re hanging Christmas lights on a roof, you shouldn’t use any fasteners that would be able to puncture the shingle or any other part of the roof, such as nails, staples or screws. Even small holes in the shingles can create leaks. Small holes in gutters may allow water to leak where it shouldn’t and holes in the fascia board may cause it to rot. This could later cause you to require a roof repair or even a replacement.  No one wants to spend their Christmas money on a whole new roof when using fasteners that will not create holes could have been used instead. If you’re unfamiliar with roofs, now is a good time for you to learn about all the parts of your roof and the roof edge before you put up your Christmas lights.

So, if you shouldn’t puncture holes in the shingles, how do you secure Christmas lights to your roof? The solution is to use specialized plastic clips that can hug the gutters and they won’t leave a lasting mark. By using these clips you can have a huge display, with as many fasteners as you need, without worrying about leaving a bunch of holes in your roof. 

On areas of the roof that do not have gutters, attach the clips to the drip edge or the shingles, but be careful to avoid lifting the shingles in a way that breaks the sealant bond to the shingle below it. Avoid puncturing holes in your shingles or siding. Alternatively, you can use adhesive strips to attach the clips to the vertical face of your home. Just be sure you don’t puncture the surface!

How Can I Hang Christmas Lights Without Making Holes Step by Step

  • Locate an electrical outlet. Plan to run heavy-duty extension cords on a working 120-volt electrical outlet protected by a ground-fault circuit breaker. Ideally, you should use a switch-controlled outlet, or plug the lights into an automatic timer. Both the outlet’s circuit and the timer must be rated to handle the combined amperes of all light strings that will be connected. Do not use an indoor timer outdoors.
  • Measure the lengths. Using a long measuring tape, measure the length of your house along the ground. Also, measure its height and the height of any bushes or trees you intend to light. Then measure the lengths of the light strings you will need to outline doors or windows. Figure out the number of 50-foot light strings it will take for all of these measurements.
  • Test the lights. Before you plug them in, visually inspect the light string, looking for broken or missing bulbs and worn or defective wiring. If you discover faulty wires, replace the string entirely as this could present a fire hazard. If any bulbs are broken or missing, you should definitely replace them.

To extract a broken bulb, wear gloves and use long-nose pliers. Once a light string is complete, plug it in and check for burnt-out bulbs. Unplug the string before replacing faulty bulbs and then retest it to be sure all the lights work. If the string doesn’t work at all, check it for a blown fuse, per the manufacturer’s directions. If the fuse has blown, replace it; if it blows again, replace the entire string.

  • Set up a ladder. If your home’s eaves are low, you may be able to use a stepladder; otherwise, plan to use an extension ladder. Place it firmly on flat ground and, extending it well above the eaves, lean it against the eaves at an angle that will be comfortable and safe to climb; neither too steep nor too flat. If you must lean the ladder against the gutter, place a short piece of 2 by 4 inside the gutter to reinforce it. 
  • Hang the lights along the eaves. Your objective is to hang lights as easily and safely as possible without marring your home’s trim or walls. For attaching lights along gutters or the roof, use plastic clips made for the job. These clips grip shingles or gutters and have a lower hook that holds a light strand or extension cord. 
  • Attach the lights to the trim. For attaching lights to window trim and similar vertical surfaces, use rope clips, adhesive or nail-on plastic string light clips; readily available online or at home improvement centers. Space them about 12 inches apart or as recommended. Do not use staples or nails to hang light strings they can pierce or wear away the protective insulation, creating a serious electrical hazard. 

How do you hang Christmas lights without a ladder?

The way that you would hang Christmas lights without a ladder is by taking a clip and putting your wire inside, then popping the clip in the pincher end of the pole. Raise it up to the edge of your roof or you can pop the clip in first and then pick up the wire. Then you would slide the clip under the shingles. Pull the release trigger and very gently remove them from the clip. Now, there is a little bit of a difference when it comes to hanging lights on your gutters. Looking at the instructions that come with the pole to see the best way to hang your lights is also a really good idea.

As local roofing contractors, we know that hundreds of roofing accidents occur from hanging Christmas lights and decorations each and every year. We hear all the horror stories! To avoid looking like the guy from Christmas with the Kranks where Tim Allen is stuck hanging from his rooftop, always have someone with you ready to assist. Never hang lights if there is visible snow or ice on the ground or roof, or during wet weather conditions— we do not want any slip and falls! Good home improvement stores carry accessories for personal ladder safety as well as accessories to prevent the ladder from damaging your home. When taking down the lights, you shouldn’t just pull on the string. While it saves you time, it may pull down your gutters and otherwise damage your asphalt shingled roof. Instead, take down your lights the same way you put them up; carefully, safely and one clip at a time. Be conscious about how you wrap and pack away your light strings. If they twist, they may become damaged or get kinks and look odd next year. Especially if you use clips that hook to the line instead of to the bulb.

Stay safe! Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year from your local roofing contractors at Infinite Roofing!

How Do I Remove Snow From My Roof?

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Experts remind you to rake snow off your roof to prevent leaks
Check out our exclusive interview with Giuliana Bruno at NEWS10 ABC,
which aired December 6th, 2019

Knowing that winter is officially here and it’s that time of year where snowstorms will be coming your way, Infinite Roofing can help you with some information on what to do during what can be a very stressful time. Any homeowners who have spent a winter full of snowstorms know how fast snow accumulates and builds up. Anyone who lives in a place where snowstorms happen frequently knows how worrying it can be when snow and ice accumulate on their rooftops. Here at Infinite Roofing, we have years of experience performing winter roof care and maintenance including snow and ice removal. The information provided below will be beneficial for both commercial property homeowners as well as regular homeowners. 

Rooftop snow buildup is something to be concerned about because the extra weight on the roof can cause it to collapse or leak. It can also contribute to ice dam formation which can also cause considerable damage. Many people may not realize just how much snow can weigh. It looks very pretty but it is very heavy. Therefore, providing this information may encourage you to monitor the amount of snow that piles up on your rooftop. 

Why do I need to perform rooftop snow removal?

Aside from the weight of the snow adding to any existing structural issues, one of the main reasons that anyone would want to keep their roof snow-free during the winter is to avoid ice dams forming on their roof.  Snow forms ice dams because hot air always rises up from inside your house and this causes the snow to melt on an upper, warmer part of the roof, the water then starts to run down toward the eaves. As this water runs downwards it cools and freezes, forming ice. When that ice accumulates it will start to back up under the roof shingles, melt again, and then start soaking the roof sheathing and leaking into the attic or other parts of your property. This, in turn, would cause some serious damage to your roof, gutters, paint, insulation, interior drywall, and other surfaces. 

If you’re able to prevent these ice dams, you’re much safer from serious leaks and damage to your property. The best way to do this is by minimizing the amount of snow on your rooftop. In other words, rooftop snow removal is a very important consideration, particularly in the harsh winters of Albany, Clifton Park and the Greater Capital Region.

When the snow begins to melt and form into ice it becomes even heavier which ends up putting pressure on the support structure of your home. One square-foot of snow at only one inch deep which would come to weigh over 1.25 pounds. In this region, it is not unusual to see that snow approach 12 inches deep or more up on your roof! In this case, you would then most definitely want to perform some rooftop snow removal measures. Maybe that doesn’t seem like a lot, but then multiply that weight by the actual size of your roof! That 12 inches of snow just became about thousands of pounds of stress and pressure building up on your rooftop. So, finding and implementing these rooftop snow removal tips will protect you and your property this winter.

When is rooftop snow removal necessary?

Many commercial roofing contractors have different opinions about how much ice and snow is too much to have on your roof. However, when you actually think about it, it all depends partly on the age of the roofing system, the style of the roof you have, the materials used, how well the roof has been maintained and additional environmental factors. If the snow buildup is excessive or you have any concerns about the integrity of your roof, snow removal should be one of your top priorities.

Develop a rooftop snow removal plan

When it comes to making a plan for rooftop snow removal, you will ultimately have to decide on the best course of action. Many visual signs may be present that indicate a safe rooftop snow load has been exceeded. One should assume that the roof is unsafe and subject to failure if any indicators are present. In this case, calling in a local, professional roofing Contractor such as Infinite Roofing would be your best bet.

When the rooftop has been evaluated, if there is a need to remove snow:

  • When you know that it is safe to access the roof following a storm, the first thing you should do is clear the rooftop drain inlets and outlets. Clear drains help clear up any water from melting snow.
  • Roof areas that have accumulated drifting snow may require action to remove the snow in these exposed areas. When deeper snow drifts begin to melt away it takes more time, thus increasing the likelihood of more snow or rainfall which would add to the rooftop load.

The majority of the time, roof snow raking helps clear snow and prevent the formation of ice dams. It does not prevent all ice dams entirely, but many make the mistake of not raking the snow off their roof and allowing a greater amount of ice dams to form. You’re far less likely to get an ice dam if you rake than if you don’t. When you rake, you’re going to want to reach as high up as you can. Believe it or not, shoveling or raking your own roof can actually be very dangerous! Consider hiring a professional roofing contractor, as they would be insured to be out on cold and icy roofs rather than taking the risk doing it yourself.

Rooftop snow removal on commercial roofing systems

Commercial roofs are a significant investment and this investment should be protected. Compared to any other roofs, commercial roofs can be quite fragile. Therefore when a commercial roof has too much weight on it, especially snow, it can be easily damaged due to a lot of foot traffic. 

When commercial roof owners or managers decide to remove snow on their own they can often end up damaging their own property. In general, people tend to think of rooftop snow removal as similar to removing snow from the sidewalk and driveway. Therefore, they end up shoveling all the snow right off and they don’t realize that when using a shovel the blade ends up damaging the roof, causing leaks into the property.

When it comes to commercial roofing, when removing snow from the rooftop you have to leave a thin layer of snow. When removing all the snow from the roof you could end up damaging the roof membrane. Therefore, it really is best to contact a local roofing expert such as Infinite Roofing as this could save you a lot of money in the long run. If you were to hire a regular old handyman or a company that wouldn’t really know how to deal with a commercial roof, be careful that they do not make this mistake. 

The benefit of hiring a local roofing contractor for your snow removal

Hiring an experienced, commercial roofing contractor to clear snow from your rooftop, they will take many more precautions than any other person you would hire. 

  • An expert would do cleaning inspection.
  • All workers would be trained on how to clean the roof properly and safely.
  • They would use specialized tools that are designed to clear snow efficiently without causing damage.
  • An expert would oversee the job, guaranteeing the safety of the workers and avoiding any problems.
  • They would also be fully insured, in the event any problems do arise.

Hiring a professional commercial roofing contractor that has extensive experience in commercial roofing throughout the region is very beneficial for you and your peace of mind. They would be fully trained and capable of working with commercial roofing in such snowy and icy conditions. In other words, you’re avoiding any chances of you getting hurt or any other person you might hire that does not have the necessary skills and qualifications to do the job. If a roofer from a proper commercial roofing company were to actually get hurt, they will have insurance, avoiding any liability on your part.

Importance of commercial rooftop snow removal 

As a local commercial roof owner, knowing that winter is just around the corner along with a lot of snowfall on your property, there are many things to consider. One of them being that when the snow starts to accumulate on top of your building, it poses a great risk for the roof to be damaged. Therefore, it is so important for commercial property owners to be aware of the dangers that the rooftop snow can cause. We understand that all roofs are different and that some roofs have a tolerance to handle a greater volume of snow, while many others do not. However, it is always better to be safe than sorry.

In order to prevent any structural damage, you will want to be aware of the amount of snow accumulating on your roof and the load capacity of your roof. If you have a flat roof, snow will most likely accumulate much more. Therefore, you’re going to want to make sure that your roof is not prone to excessive snow accumulation. With these types of roofs, you’re going to want to avoid any snow level more than 18 inches on your roof. You’re going to want to monitor how much snow is on the rooftop so that you can avoid any possible collapse or damage to your commercial property and also ensure that any issues do not prevent the normal day-to-day running of your business/life.

When there is a snowstorm happening or its just snowing, snow starts to build up and on your roof. Sleet, rain, and ice can make matters worse. All this ends up causing pressure to build up on the roof and increases the odds of water running down on the roof when the heat begins to melt the snow. Therefore causing a clog on your gutter when the water refreezes. 

When you take all this into consideration, hiring a commercial roofing contractor to clear snow from your rooftop can save you a great deal of hassle. You may do the job yourself, but to avoid any injuries and any complications that can cause damage to your roof or property, your best bet is to hire a professional.

Are You Using The Right Roof Coating?

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Homeowners and building owners generally spend a significant amount of money on roofing. However, they spend a lot more money when they don’t get the proper roofing for their property. No one likes to waste money, especially when your roof should have been done right the first time. Many people are purchasing a spray-applied elastomeric commercial roof coating because it saves them a great deal of money, especially when applied instead of a full commercial roof replacement. However, as mentioned before, when your roofing isn’t done properly you tend to spend a lot more than you should, especially when you have coated your roof twice. This can be very frustrating and you start to think, “Well, why wasn’t this done right the first time?” How can I make sure that I choose the right roof coating for my building? Below we give you some details about elastomeric roof coatings and we will provide you with the information you need to make a final decision on your commercial roof coating. 

Commercial roof coatings often increase the reflectivity, reduce energy consumption and enhance the aesthetics of the roof.  So when we talk about elastomeric roof coating, you should know that it is an elastic coating that can be applied to many different types of roofs. With an elastomeric roof coating, your roof is protected and it will seal the underlying roofing material, helping to stop and prevent leaks. The term elastomeric comes from the coating’s elastic quality so that it stretches and moves. The main reason for applying an elastomeric coating is to make your roof more durable. Some coatings are able to make your building cool. Elastomeric roof coatings can be used on many industrial and commercial roof types. 

Before making any big decisions about an elastomeric roof coating, you need to look more into several factors about your roof. You need to establish exactly what material is currently on your roof and ascertain what coating will be best suited for the property. A local commercial roofing contractor will be able to tell you if your roof needs a repair, full roof replacement, or perhaps just needs a restoration coating. An experienced commercial roofing contractor will be able to give you the best advice on how to proceed.

When reaching out to a commercial roofing contractor it is helpful to know the approximate size, age and the type of roof. This information will help you and your local roofing contractor to establish if your roof should be lasting longer than it is, and the cost to replace the entire roof if needed. You will want to establish the slope of the roof because this weighs on what type of replacement or repair is available to you. You should also gather as much information about your roof’s history such as: has it been coated? Has it had single-ply roofing materials installed over it? Has it suffered the same problems in the past? 

Some of these are pretty basic things that you may know off the top of your head, however, others may require opening up a roof maintenance book or getting on the roof yourself to get the answer. An experienced roofing contractor will have years of knowledge to help you gather all the necessary information to make an informed decision about your roof.

Take into consideration the condition of your roof as well. You may choose the best commercial roof coating but the question is, is your roof a suitable candidate for a roof coating at all? Or do you need to completely remove the roof and replace the roof deck too? If your roof is not structurally sound, no roof coating is a good choice. The building’s location is also a really important thing to consider. Certain climates are more favorable for coating. A dry climate is better for acrylic coatings to be installed, humid and wet climates work better for silicone coatings.

Why is reflectivity such an important consideration?

Light colored surfaces reflect more sunlight than dark surfaces. When sunlight is reflected, less of the sun’s energy is turned into heat. Increasing the reflectivity of your commercial roof will extend the life of your roof and leave your building much cooler in summer, saving you considerable expense on heat regulation. This also means less strain on your HVAC systems and anyone inside the building will be much more comfortable.

Which type of Elastomeric Roof Coating is best for you?

Acrylic Roof Coatings

Acrylic coatings usually have a lifespan of 20 years. Their appearance is typically bright white and provide good reflectivity. Acrylic roof coatings have significant value within the modern property. However many owners often have a limited understanding of the performance of the product and their unique property space. Some negative characteristics of acrylic coatings are that for one it does not stretch out as much as some of the other coatings do, making them susceptible to damage from fluctuating temperatures and ponding water. Another thing is that acrylic coatings usually require a primer and nearly always require two coats. Acrylic roof coatings tend to be more expensive when you consider the additional steps and materials. Some local roofing contractors will tell you that per gallon they are cheaper, however what you need to know is that on any acrylic coating project, with these extra considerations the  price can blow up very quickly.

Besides the downfalls of an acrylic roof coating, it is highly reflective. The sun’s UV rays have a minimal impact on the surface material. Acrylic coatings also provide intuitive performance. Therefore, property owners and an installation team don’t have to spend time learning how to integrate the material and the installation work can be performed in a quick time frame. This ensures that owners consolidate their installation costs and minimize the amount of time required to add the acrylic coating to their building structure. 

Acrylic roof coatings are among the most cost effective commercial roofing systems within the marketplace. Property owners can save thousands of dollars by having the system installed on their roofing structure. And because they’re durable in most environments, property owners can look forward to achieving long lasting value. When your roofing system becomes dirty, the roof reduces its appeal and limits the value received by the building owner. However, having an acrylic roof coating by a commercial roofing contractor will most likely restore your roof’s appeal because it is exceptionally dirt-resistant and maintains its aesthetic appeal over many years. 

Urethane Roof Coating

Urethane roof coatings are another common elastomeric roofing system. It is quite similar in price to silicone coatings, the price usually depends on the specific formulation. Urethane roof coatings usually are chosen because of their durability compared to acrylic and silicone coatings. Urethane coatings don’t offer as much effective reflectivity as silicone or acrylic coatings. A good quality that urethane coatings have is that they offer good protection from ponding water and stay cleaner, resisting dirt more than silicone coatings and acrylic coatings. Urethane roof coatings are most commonly used for sprayed in place polyurethane foam insulation and every other commercial roofing substrate. Without a doubt, a urethane roof coating is one of the strongest and most durable roof coatings on the market today.

When it comes to urethane roof coatings, you should know that there are two different types of urethane coating. They are aliphatic coating and aromatic coating. Aliphatic urethane coatings are UV stable. They also hold color longer, they resist dirt pick up, and are typically used as a topcoat. Aromatic urethane roof coatings are not as UV stable, on the other hand. However, they are less expensive and are typically used as a base coat. Urethane coatings form a highly durable, flexible, seamless membrane layer that is able to withstand the daily expansion and contraction of the roof structure as well as resist ponding water. Therefore, some local roofing contractors would go forward with using this particular coating. Aromatic urethane are less expensive but they are typically used as a base coat. Urethane coatings are more impact resistant than any other commercial roof coatings, making them ideal for use in high-traffic areas. 

Urethane coatings comply very well with most traditional commercial roofing substrates including metal, modified bitumen, spray polyurethane foam, EPDM, TPO, and other single-ply membranes. Urethane coatings are highly reflective and UV stable so building owners and facility managers can save a lot of money from reducing cooling costs during the summer.

Silicone Roof Coatings

Silicone roof coatings are the most flexible material available, and they are often chosen for their ability to compensate for a building’s flexing with changes in temperature. They exhibit great UV resistance and protect the surface beneath the coating very well. Silicone roof coatings are often compared to acrylic coatings due to their similar appearance, but in actual fact silicone coatings are very different and not really comparable. They are more expensive per gallon, but for that extra price tag, you receive better reflectivity, better adhesion, no primer required, only one coat, and a 20-year lifespan. As you can see, the two systems are not similar on a per-project basis. Silicone coatings often start out more expensive per-gallon, but as a whole, the project is less expensive. Silicone roof coatings can also withstand ponding water, which acrylic coatings cannot.

Two major concerns with silicone coatings are dirt accumulation and durability. These coatings do pick up a lot of dirt, so they should be used in areas where aesthetics are important. The coatings can be easily power-washed, but they will become dirty and require cleaning again quite frequently. Their durability is also sometimes a question mark, although if you are careful not to drop sharp objects on the roof they should be fine. Another way to avoid the durability problem is to install granules on the roof surface.

Summary

In short, there are many considerations when choosing a commercial roof coating for your property. An experienced commercial roofing contractor like our team here at Infinite Roofing, is well equipped to answer any of your questions and come out to your property and provide you with a thorough assessment, advice and estimate for any work you may require. Give us a call today! 518-444-ROOF

Commercial Flat Roofing

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Making a decision on what type of commercial roofing system you want to have or replace on your current commercial roof, there are many options to choose from. Therefore, trying to decide exactly what you want can be extremely stressful especially when you do not know a lot about commercial roofing. So the question you should ask is, how do I decide and what should I consider in order to make my decision? Well, for starters, flat roof systems have different types of roofing materials for your needs and budget. Therefore, you should consider each of the advantages and disadvantages before making any final decisions. You would also need to consider where you’re located, the use of the roof, your climate, and roof maintenance. Therefore, when considering buying a commercial flat roof system you need to know the materials that you want to go with. There are five types of commercial flat roofing materials that are the most commonly used on modern commercial flat roofs. These five materials are EPDM roofing, TPO roofing, PVC roofing, metal roofing and modified bitumen.

Some factors that you would want to consider when purchasing a new commercial flat roofing system is price. Price is one of the biggest factors many building owners and residential owners consider when purchasing a roofing system. When you’re basing your decision on price, take into consideration if your roof will need any extra attention or expense after the initial installation. For instance, your new roof may require regular maintenance and repair. Some roof types require far more maintenance than others do. Therefore, if you have a budget in place, you will want to consider how much you will be paying for a regular maintenance program to keep the roof running in good shape. Modified Bitumen roofs, for example, require frequent roof maintenance compared to EPDM, TPO or PVC roofs. Another thing is the price of any repairs, so you should ask yourself the question, is this roof system easily repairable and how quickly would it need to be repaired? This question should be based on your roof use, roof material and weather conditions in your area.

Now, if the system that you choose or already have is not one that has a long lifespan then you will most likely have to repair it within a ten year period. Especially if it requires frequent maintenance and repairs. Now, which one is going to cost you more annually? Is it going to be the flat roof that does not usually have a very long lifespan and requires more maintenance? Every roof system needs to be maintained, however, the amount of time and the cost to maintain it can vary quite a lot. Therefore, consider what the roof system may cost you on an annual basis over its lifespan. Hiring a commercial roofing contractor that has experience in commercial flat roofing can be a useful source of advice to help you make the right choice. The majority of the time the cheaper roofing material can be the most costly in the long run, when you factor in the cost of regular repairs and maintenance.

Another factor that you want to take into consideration when investing in a new commercial flat roof is the quality. As mentioned before, some roofs last much longer than others because of the maintenance requirements, the lifespan of the material, the roof itself and how it is used, and even the location of your property. So you might ask yourself; what is the quality of each roofing material you are considering? Is the material reinforced? Is it flexible? Is it a well-known brand? Is it durable enough for my roof?  You’re going to want the quality to be high, affordable and you want to know if its performance truly meets your expectations.

The qualities that you would want to look for are durability, lifespan, sustainability, reputation, the characteristics of the material and so on. You want to ask, what puts that roofing material above the others?

Prefabrication is another factor to consider. Prefabrication generally means the material is fabricated at the manufactures so when applying on the job site, it would consist of more focus on installing the system than having to go through the full process of measuring, cutting and welding. The product would come pre-fitted for your roof which can take away from the labor costs to install and the roof can be installed much faster. This can help minimize disruptions to your business which can be an important issue in any commercial roof installation process.

Metal Roofing

Metal roofing is different from most other commercial flat roofing materials for a few reasons. A metal roof is an ideal choice with a roof slope that is greater than 2 inches. Metal roofs are mainly favored by facility managers because it is extremely durable, non-combustible and is able to reflect heat off your roof. The surface of the metal roof can be extremely hot when the sun beams down on it, however, a lot of that heat ends up being prevented from entering the building and saving on energy costs.  Metal roofs are immune to cracks that affect single-ply roofs. However, metal roofs can be vulnerable to leaks around the seams and roof edges. Metal roofs can be customized and formed around angles and protrusions. While they are typically manufactured in large standardized sheets, there are some customization options available to commercial roofing contractors as they prepare to install.

When talking about the installation process and disruptions, keep in mind that some flat roofing materials need more time, space and heavy equipment for their installation. Other materials, such as PVC and TPO, require less installation time and little equipment to install. Some job sites can also become very messy and if you do not require a tear-off with certain roofing systems, then the debris will not be in the way of your business operations.                 

TPO

TPO is a very popular roof type and compared to PVC it is also the best flat roofing material to install. TPO is one of the fastest-growing commercial roofing systems on the market. It is made up of a single layer of synthetic and reinforcing scrim that can be used to cover flat roofs. Not only is TPO roofing material inexpensive, but it also has a decent lifespan between 10 and 20 years. In addition, the white coating that appears on many TPO roofs has all the same energy-saving properties as PVC roofs. They even require less maintenance than EPDM roofs. 

When properly installed and maintained, your commercial single-ply membrane roof can last longer than 20 years. There are a lot of benefits when it comes to single-ply membrane roofing systems. For the fact that single-ply membrane roofing does not include the insulation factor, as a customer, you have more options to choose from to be able to insulate your facility’s roof. The most common TPO material is usually bright white with highly reflective properties. With the bright white roof installation, it is able to reflect UV rays and heat from the building, which end up saving you money during the summer months from decreased energy usage to cool the building interior. Single-Ply Membrane Roofing Systems have been the go-to roofing system for commercial, industrial, and manufacturing facilities for decades.

EPDM

When talking about EPDM rubber roofs compared to the other flat roofing materials, it is one of the most inexpensive roofing materials around. It’s extremely easy to install, therefore you are able to install it yourself or hire a professional roofing contractor. One of the biggest advantages that EPDM rubber roofing has is that it’s very lightweight, therefore, the roof deck doesn’t need any kind of reinforcement. The way that it is installed is by stripping everything right off the roof and applying an adhesive then roll out the roof. There are few seams, which would mean that leaks are fairly rare and an extremely good quality EPDM roof can last you for up to 20 years. This roofing material is fairly durable, it doesn’t scratch or scuff easily, and it can be easily repaired if a leak was to occur. Roofing contractors would use liquid roofing membranes, latex tape or adhesives, and a type of rubber shingle to install over the EPDM roofing in order to repair and patch the leaks. The material may be black and doesn’t absorb heat, it isn’t easy for it to be damaged by UV rays, which in turn helps it hold up well in sunny climates. 

PVC Roofing

PVC roofing is another commercial flat roof material on the market, some building owners usually prefer to use it. However, some roofing contractors usually don’t recommend it as a first option. PVC roofing is one of the most expensive roofing materials compared to other single-ply flat roof materials. However, for the extra expense, PVC roofing offers a good amount of benefits. One benefit would be that the reinforced membrane makes PVC roofs resistant to impact damage and cracking, which in any case would normally shorten the lifespan of single-ply roofs. With a PVC roof, commercial buildings, for instance, manufacturing facilities, wouldn’t face roofing problems that result from chemical exposure because PVC is extremely resistant to chemical damage. PVC roofing requires low maintenance and has a long lifespan, making a very popular material among commercial roofing contractors.  With a PVC roof, it will keep your business building temperature cooler, reducing energy demands. 

Modified Bitumen Roof 

When you compare modified bitumen roofs to other commercial flat roofing materials, modified bitumen stands out as the more low-budget option. Modified bitumen roofs mainly use asphalt membrane as the base to the roof. The surface is vulnerable to cracking and blistering, which greatly reduces their typical lifespan. While this lifespan is less than the more advanced options, the installation savings can still make modified bitumen roofs a serious consideration for some businesses. However, some roofing contractors go back and forth with this option. Modified bitumen roofs are a single-ply membrane system that is most often roll-applied to the surface of your roof. Modified bitumen is quite similar to asphalt roofs, but they have additional polymers in their materials that provide added protection from the elements and help to increase the lifespan of the product. When comparing how popular this roofing material is to the other flat roofing materials, modified bitumen is the least popular flat roofing system. However, it is still pretty common on older roofs. Modified bitumen roofs are installed by rolling out the roofing material after it has been heated with a blow torch. This heating process allows the material to mold itself to the roof surface. However, many roofing contractors try to avoid using this roofing material because installation requires a heated blow torch which ends up being a liability. As well as it requires a lot of maintenance, therefore becoming a hassle.