Metal Roofing | Infinite Roofing & Construction Roofing Blog

How Trees Can Damage your Roof

December 3, 2020 by Infinite Roofing 1 Comment

Oftentimes when buying a new home people prefer a yard with lots of mature trees because they are beautiful and add curb appeal. Having trees can offer blooming flowers and can supply shade, however they come at a cost. In many ways trees can reduce the lifespan of your roof unless you take proper steps to prevent it. With annual tree management you can prevent almost all damage that can be caused by intruding trees.

Trees surrounding your property aren’t always bad and there are many reasons to keep them around. Under the right circumstances trees can offer shingle protection and many other benefits.

Blocking the wind: Large trees that are taller than your home’s roof can block wind, which reduces the effect on your home and shingles, especially when a big storm hits.

Providing UV protection: Mature trees provide lots of shade which aids in protection from harmful UV rays from the sun. Over time UV rays slowly age your asphalt shingles along with other roofing materials.

Controlling summer temperatures: In the summer months shade from your trees helps reduce heat on your roof and also inside your home. Shingles absorb a lot of heat from the sun and can soak it up back into your home, making your AC bill much higher.

While there are many benefits for having some foliage around your home, there are also many ways in which trees can damage your homes roof.

The most obvious way that a tree can cause more harm than good would be when trees fall from either old age or a storm, onto your roof.

Branches falling from trees can also damage and scratch shingles on the roof of your home, and even hit windows creating a problem. Branches can be blown off from a strong storm and find their way on your home’s roof. If the branches are larger in size that can add unnecessary weight causing dents or even holes. Most of this type of damage usually takes place in the winter time as snow and ice creates more weight on the trees, causing branches to fall.

If you don’t hire an arborist to prune the trees in your yard, you can get on a ladder and do it yourself to prevent branches that hang over your roof. If you let the low hanging branches get out of hand they will rub against the roof scratching away the granules which is the protective layer on shingles. If this has happened to your roof, be sure to call your local roofing contractor to assess the damage.

Certain types of trees drop their needles and leaves each fall and make a big mess on your roof and in your yard. These debris if not properly taken care of can clog your gutters which will make rain water pool on the roof causing damaging leaks. Leaves left on top of the roof absorb moisture from the air and rain that promotes mold, moss, and algae growth, reducing the lifespan of your shingles. Along with annual cleanups you can hire a local roofing contractor to install gutter guards to help prevent buildup of leaves and debris in your home’s gutters.

Having trees in your yard that offer some shade has its benefits but if your home is always shaded with little to no sunlight that can pose a problem because it will be difficult for your roof to dry off. If the roof is always wet this is obviously an issue that will cause mold, moss and algae growth. Along with many trees shading your property come with animals that inhabit these trees, some finding their way onto your roof and making a home. It is wise to cut back all branches that lead to your roof to eliminate debris and animals.

How far should tree branches be from my house?

A good rule of thumb is to keep tree branches at least 6ft away from your home’s roof. If you are planting new trees you should start 20-30 feet away from your home to ensure the branches that eventually grow will not touch the roof. Be sure to check with your homeowners insurance policy to see if they have certain requirements about tree distance. Typically if you neglect maintaining your homes property and damage is caused by overgrown trees and debris it may not be covered by your policy.

How to prevent roof damage from trees?

Trim tree branches that are starting to look old that can be easily blown off and cause damage, or hire an arborist to remove and trim the trees surrounding your home.
It is important to prune young trees to control the growth, pruning regularly will allow for stronger branches and trunks which will be less likely to break off in a storm.
Clean up debris regularly from the roof and gutters as much as possible. If you have trees that drop debris not just in the fall, but all year it is important to keep up with the maintenance.
Be sure to cut down trees that are not stable, also check with your city first for bylaws/ Some species of trees are protected and are not allowed to be cute down. Some local areas even do not allow the removal of trees with a certain trunk diameter.

What if my neighbor’s tree branches are touching my roof?

If you live in close proximity to your neighbors then you might have tree branches and debris that get too close to your home. The first thing you want to do is politely ask them if you can trim back their trees that fall on your property line. If you ask them to do it chances are they won’t, or they won’t be as thorough as you might be. If they refuse to do so you can turn to the city which will have bylaws in place to force your neighbor to deal with the overgrown tree issue. These laws vary by location so you can look them up and seek legal action if you choose. Even though you may have branches and debris on your property, the tree itself is on your neighbors property and you legally cannot trim it without permission.

What if my neighbor’s tree has fallen on my home?

Most Likely your insurance company will cover the damage depending on your policy. Be sure to let your insurance adjuster know that the tree that fell on your home was not on your property, so your deductible isn’t affected and your neighbor is held responsible for damages. In the off chance that your policy does not cover tree damage then you will end up paying for damages out of pocket. You can pursue legal action against your neighbor for the damages caused by their tree, but hopefully you can resolve issues without. Of course this can all be avoided by regularly pruning trees on your property and communicating with your neighbors about their trees before they get out of hand.

When should I remove a tree?

You may be wondering how to know if a tree is ill or old and when to cut it down. Some things you should look for would be large cracks or splitting of tree trunks, and if illness has developed. You can visibly spot fungus that grows on trees, this will cause branches to die and easily be blown off creating potential damage. If you have trees with invasive roots they can pose an issue to your home’s foundation. Also look for peeling bark that is an indication a tree is infected, the shedding can be normal is there is new bark underneath.

How To Inspect a Roof

November 10, 2020 by Infinite Roofing Leave a Comment

When it comes to doing maintenance around your home, the roof is easy to forget about. Doing a professional inspection once a year is recommended but you can easily inspect your roof on your own. Being aware of the condition of your roof will help you get the most out of it, by correcting any issues you see before more damage is done. The most common cause of water damage is from a leaky roof so it is important to be sure to properly inspect it at least once per year, and also after any major storms. We can easily help you identify things that may be problematic on your own, so you can then make a decision if a repair or full replacement is needed. Inspecting your roof has never been easier with these steps!

What happens during a roof inspection?

First step would be to walk around the exterior of your home, inspecting your roof from the ground to see what you can see at eye level. Inspecting your roof from the ground can still give you a good example of its condition if you don’t have a ladder or you’re afraid of heights. Look for signs of any damage, sagging, or ageing and take notes on what you think might be an issue to let your local roofing contractor know. While you are looking up at your roof, be sure to check out the flashing. Flashing is the main entry point for water and needs to be kept in good shape to work properly. Damaged flashing can cause immense damage under the surface of your roof. If you see damaged flashing a professional inspection may be necessary to be sure there are no underlying issues.

If your home has skylights examine the inside where the seams meet your ceiling and also on the exterior, where the shingles meet the skylight. If you see old shingles around your skylights you may have water damage. Looking closely at soil stacks, if your home has one. This is important to check for any cracks and issues with the “stack boot,” and not to opt for a cheap version that will not last you. Installing a soil stack that won’t last you as long as your roof will only cause you bigger problems down the road.

Inspecting your chimney is an area that you are able to check out without having to hop on top of your roof. Make sure to look around the perimeter of the chimney where water is directed away from your house, during heavy snow or rain, precipitation lands right at the chimney which can cause leaks or damage over time.

Look for moss, algae, or piles of leaves on your homes roof, these areas are notorious for costly leaks and water damage. Moss can severely damage the integrity of a roof because moss absorbs moisture and puts down roots causing degradation. These roots can lift shingles allowing constant moisture which can lead to mold and many other problems. Algae can adhere to the roof causing permanent stains and eventually damage underlying materials. If moisture seeps into the wood of your roof, it will cause rotting and compromise the strength of your roof.

As you are walking the perimeter of your home looking up at the roof, check to see if there are any curled or cracked shingles. Hot air from the attic often can cause shingles to curl away from the roof, putting you at risk for water damage and poor ventilation. Another important place to inspect is the attic, checking for rotted wood on the roof, and how well the insulation is holding up. If the insulation is poor there might be excess wear on the roof where heat can leak through. During cold winter months your homes heat leaking out can create serious issues causing ice dams to form. This happens when snow melts on the roof and runs down freezing along the way.

As you are looking at the condition of the shingles on your roof, also try to check for granule loss. Granules are the texture part of the shingles that feels slightly like sandpaper, these help deflect UV rays, make shingles fire resistant, and also makes packaging much easier. If you see loss of granules it may indicate your shingles have aged or been largely affected by severe weather. If you have a lot of granular loss then the shingles are no longer protecting your home from the elements, and you should consider calling your local roofing contractor for a professional inspection.

Another area commonly overlooked by homeowners is the gutters. Cleaning out your gutters is so important because that is why most water damage is caused by being clogged. A gutter system can accumulate up to 300 pounds of water and debris each year. The best time to clean out your gutters is in late spring, this is the prime opportunity to remove the buildup that accumulates from blooming and lingering winter. Along with maintenance for your gutters, pressure washing them out along with your roof at least once per year is suggested.

When should you inspect a roof?

Inspecting your roof should be a year routine maintenance, like we have said previously it is a great idea to get a professional roofing inspection once per year, usually in the spring, but you should inspect your roof and exterior of your home every few months. If you always have your eye out for potential problems it is much eraser to address the issues before they get too big and expensive.

You’ve completed inspecting your roof, now what?

After you have finished inspecting your roof with the help of these easy tips, review your findings. If you have found potential problems or concerns contact your local roofing contractor and make an appointment. Being proactive as a homeowner will save you a ton of money in the long run. As always when seeking out the best roofing company be sure to read reviews from their customers and look at pictures of their work.

Advances in Roof Technology

November 3, 2020 by Infinite Roofing Leave a Comment

As technology advances in everyday life, so does the way in which we are able to book, install, and maintain your roof. At your local roofing company we stay on top of the latest roofing trends so we can better improve how to serve you. We do all the research to present you with all your options so you don’t have to. It is our goal to ensure that you get the best roof for you and your family, at the best price.

The roof is the first line of defense for all buildings, keeping out the elements and maintaining a hot or cold environment inside. It makes sense that over the decades people are concerned with advancing roof technology since the times of straw and mud roofing systems. When thinking about new roofing technology, the first things that may come to mind are picture apps, programs, and new ways of communication that revolutionize the business side of the roofing industry. However, most of the fascinating technologies are taking place on the roof itself.

There is a lot more that goes into roofing than just nailing down shingles, the level of precision on installing roofs have been perfected with useful tools like satellite measurement imagery and much more. New materials have been introduced to improve energy efficiency and the safety of workers have significantly improved. Before modern advancing roof technology and practices, people used anything that was available to cover their homes and protect themselves.

Clay tiles were mostly used by advancing cultures as early as the neolithic age, it took longer to reach North America. As times progressed other materials were used such as wood, clay, and tin. These materials were very heavy and unreliable, some even posing as a fire risk with no ventilation. The advancement of asphalt shingles represent a dawn for modern roofing gaining momentum ever since.

People now have so many options that go well beyond original designs, with new technologies anything is possible. Roofing is still a necessity but now your roof does so much more than just keeping the rain out; it is a beautiful piece of architecture that optimizes the internal environment you want to create.

New shingle materials and designs

When choosing the best materials for your new roof installation, the key is to check longevity against purchase cost and installation. Although rolled roofing is one of the cheapest options, it is definitely not the best quality option for longevity. Comparing an expensive shingle that will last 50 plus years is a much better value than a cheaper one that only lasts 10.

Architectural shingles

Architectural shingles are one of the most popular, cost effective materials on the market. These shingles have been around since the 80’s but have made major advancements since then. These shingles are manufactured from fiberglass to mimic wood and slate, to give your home beautiful curb appeal without the mass amount of weight that comes with it.

Metal shingles

Most people have heard of metal roofing, it is used mostly on commercial buildings but becoming more popular on residential homes. Metal roofs last almost a lifetime and add a modern sleekness to a home. Metal shingles are slightly different, made in smaller sections to mimic the appearance of other materials like stone or wood. This concept has created new life in the metal roofing industry, with new methods of manipulating metal to stay strong but also give an appealing look.

Solar shingles

Solar panels are nothing new, many people already have them on their homes and most people have at least heard of them. Solar shingles however are much newer and have broken through the 21st century. This invention was monumental for the roofing industry, this meant that solar panels can be combined with roofing materials to create shingles. Instead of ugly large panels on top of your homes roof, advancing roof technology merged to make small attractive shingles that are barely noticeable to even be solar panels. Another plus to these small compact panels is getting all the benefits of solar without the added weight on your roof. Ask your local roofing company if they are experienced with solar shingles before making a decision.

Synthetic slate shingles

Made to resemble authentic slate tiles, synthetic slate shingles are the perfect alternative. Slate is beautiful and timeless but also very expensive and bears a ton of weight. Slate shingles are also difficult to install needing a very experienced roofing company to take on the job. Synthetic shingles are made from recycled materials that have less hassle and more durability. With proper installation and maintenance this roofing system can last a lifetime.

Cool shingles

These shingles were designed to reflect the sunlight, made with a special coating that doesn’t absorb UV rays. A standard roof can heat up to 150°F in the summer season, and this directly heats up the inside of your home as well. With these types of shingles that are ultra-reflective, the roof’s temperature can drop at least 50°F. A cooler roof means much more energy savings and also increases the longevity of your AC unit.

Other advancements that have been made in the roofing industry that are more behind the scenes, rather than on the roof itself are within the technology that is used. Generating leads through the web has never been easier with the help of certain programs and apps. Some apps allow you to search certain specifications to find buildings that may be in need of renovations or repairs. Other time saving mobile applications that have been created allow a contractor to measure a building’s roof without ever going to the actual building. You are able to upload pictures and video to share with other members in your company, send out estimates, create invoices, and add contact information. advances

Do roofers use drones?

Drones have become increasingly popular within the roofing community. They have made it possible to get great before and after photos of a roof, and also generate a building inspection without climbing on a ladder to do so. A good quality drone can be expensive but you can find a reasonably priced drone at your local electronic store. Some apps even sync up to your drone creating a cohesive system to download images you want to use for advertising.

As technology advances so does the way in which materials are made, communication between roofers improves, and installation practices become more efficient. We at Infinite Roofing stay up to date on all new technologies and advancements so we can share them with you.

Should metal roofs be grounded?

October 7, 2020 by Infinite Roofing Leave a Comment

When you decide it is time for your home or commercial building’s roof to be done, you have many options available to choose from. Shingles, rubber, and metal are among the most popular choices of roofing materials, and each tailor to different needs. Shingles take the lead for most sought after roofing material on residential homes but metal is becoming a popular choice. Metal was reserved for warehouses, factories, and sheds in the 1850’s, and in recent years people have been enjoying the sleekness it adds to their homes.

Metal roofs offer a long list of benefits that include its longevity of 40-70 years, a wide range of colors, its durability, energy efficiency, and value it can add to your home. Of course with all the positive attributes a metal roof adds, there are some cons to think about. The cost of labor, insurance, and materials have gone up and continue to rise each year. What does this mean for you? Well a metal roof is expensive, but if you are looking for a roofing system to install once and not have to ever again, then a metal roof is for you.

The reality is that no matter what you choose for a roofing system it will be costly, so it’s best to figure out how to get the most bang for your buck, and the most years. Seeking out the best roofing company in your area that specializes in metal roofing is a must. Metal is more complex than laying down shingles so you don’t want to cheap out on a roofing crew that doesn’t know what they are doing.

Now that you have weighed all of your options and finally chose a metal roof for your home, you may have some questions or concerns. Lightning strikes on a metal roof may be a concern of yours, as it is of many others who are thinking about installing metal on their homes. After much research it has been established that a metal roof is not more likely to attract lightning than any other roofing material. In fact a metal roof is thought to be even safer than other choices because of its non-combustible highest class A fire resistance rating. Metal roofs are most popular in lightning prone regions because of their fire safety.

When lightning strikes a building, it channels through the material and works its way to the ground, through a home’s pipes and electrical systems. If a roof is covered in combustible material such as flammable asphalt shingles or wooden shakes, lightning can ignite them. Comparing these materials to metal, there is just no chance of that occurring because of its fire resistance rating.

What is grounding?

Grounding is to provide an alternative pathway for an electrical surge of electricity when lightning strikes a roof or another surface. When a metal roof is installed on a residential home, a grounding system can be formed with copper wires that are attached to each electrical box in the home, this is done to ensure that the current is dispersed. When choosing the best roofing company for the job, ask them if they have experience in grounding metal roofs or installing conducting rods. Most reputable roofing companies agree that metal roofs do not need to be grounded, and is not a necessary step.

There is no building code that requires a homeowner to ground their metals roof, assuming that all other building codes are in place. Including the use of PVC for piping to extend out of the home being strictly followed. We can all agree that metal is definitely an electrical conductor but what’s more important is the type of roofing materials that are being used. If lightning were to strike the metal roof of your home it would be grounded throughout the entire roofing structure, and no damage would be done to the roof or your family. There is no reason to be afraid to place a metal roof on your home, they are beautiful and will last almost as long as your life.

A lightening protection system (LPS), is a rod or lightning conductor made from metal and mounted on a housing structure or building to protect it from lightning strikes. Placing this rod on top of a structure will advantageously strike the rod and transfer the energy through to the ground instead of passing through the building itself.

If you think you live in an area with high amounts of storms you can take this risk assessment to ensure the protection of your metal roof and building. This assessment enables the consumer to make better informed decisions to meet the expected building requirements of safety. Lightning protection is not mandated by the national building codes, but it is required in some local codes and certain governments.

Should My Roof Have Drip Edge, and What Color Should It Be?

September 24, 2020 by Infinite Roofing 1 Comment

What is the purpose of a drip edge on a roof?

Is a drip edge necessary? We have complied a guide for all your drip edge questions for shingle roofs. Drip edges are metal flashings that are installed around the edges of a roof to control the flow of water. These metal sheet are usually in the shape of an “L,” and direct water away from the fascia and into the gutters. Without its use, water would get under the shingles causing damage in numerous places of the roof. Your local roofing contractor will tell you that is is a requirement by most building codes in North America to help protect homes from damage. As we always suggest, look for the best roofing company in your area to ensure your roofing work is done properly. Not all work is created equal.

As we stated above the main key purpose of installing drip edge is to direct water away from the fascia. Water droplets stick to one another and to the surfaces they are on, it is designed to work with gravity allowing water to be forced into the gutters. Even if a home has no gutters, water will still be forced away and not collected down the fascia or soffit cavity. Without it water would stick to the shingles, working its way underneath and causing leaks.

Wind driven rain is a serious condition in which the wind forcefully pushes water all around the roof of a home. Each layer of the roofing system is designed to keep the moisture from harming the roof’s deck, which include the shingles, underlayment’s, and ice & water. Strong winds can easily push water upwards and the drip edge must compete to keep the water out. There should be about 2-4 inches of lower flange hanging off the edge of the roof to combat wind driven rain so the roof does not become compromised.

What To Do When You Experience Wind Driven Rain Roof Leak – Roofing Contractor Sullivan IL – Central Roofing LLC

What type of materials are used?

Usually it is made from numerous types of materials such as plastics and metals, the metals must be corrosion resistant or galvanized.

Copper: Many people choose copper because of its aesthetics, it has a beautiful golden color that makes the roof pop.

Deciding on the Right Roofing - Modernize

Aluminum is a very common material used. Although it is not as strong as steel aluminum does not corrode and it is often made in many colors that match many homes.

Galvanized steel is another common material used. Galvanized steel is designed to work wither water and prevent rusting. The preferable type of steel is 24 gauge so it can withstand strong winds.

Plastic, vinyl and fiberglass can also be used but these are harder to find in some areas and are not the best suited.

Drip edge comes in three basic profiles, each profile can be called more than one name so it can be a bit confusing. The C type is in the classic L shape. This type of profile is bent in a 90 degree angle with a lower flange. Type D profile is in the shape of a T, this has a lower flange on the bottom. This type is often times called D-metal or the T style. F type is an extended version with a longer edge, this is used when installing a new over existing shingles and on the rake edges. This type is often called F style or the gutter apron.

The standard sizing of drip is sold in 10.5 foot lengths and also 8ft or sometimes smaller. The overhang length ranges from 2-5 inches, you may find other sizing in your local materials store, but smaller sizing is intended for windows and not a roof.

What color should roof it be?

If your homes trim and fascia are white your local roofing contractor will most likely recommend that the best choice is white so your home is seamless. If you have for instance gray shutters on your home and other pops of gray, then choosing a gray might look nice tying it all together. Choosing a color or any building material is personally preference.

Can you install it on existing roof?

It is most often replaced when a new roof is installed, but it is possible to replace the drip edge at any time. We would not recommend a local roofing contractor who suggests leaving the old drip edge. It is best to replace the it on an existing roof in the warmer months, shingles can become brittle in the cold and break.

Do you need to replace it when replacing the roof?

No you do not have to replace it but you should, the old drip edge is most likely “old” looking and dirty from being outside for so long. If you are making the effort to replace you roof, you should replace everything so the entire roofing system looks nice. Leaving old materials to save a few bucks isn’t worth loosing on the appearance. If you want your roof to last as long as possible, everything should be replaced when doing a re-roof.

My roof should have a drip edge or overhanging shingles right? It's like this all around the house. Luckily I rent. : Roofing

How to install:

It is installed different on the eaves and rakes, once the roof deck is prepared the drip edge will be installed before the underlayment. Always consult with your local roofing company before doing any DIY work. Your roof is the most important part of your home, look for the best roofing company in your area to be sure the job is done correctly.

Step one: If you are using a type C, you can install a furring strip which will aide in its performance. A furring edge is a strip of wood that is installed on the vertical surfaces of the house under the roofs edge. When this is installed it keeps the flower flange away from the homes siding to direct water away from the home.

Step two: First install drip edges on the eaves and placing the it down, so that the water will go into the gutters. The flange will point down and away from the roof.

Step three: Using roofing nails, nail every 12 inches, never allowing more than 12 inches without a nail. When placing it piece down, it should never over the first by an inch.

Top 10 Benefits to an Asphalt Roof

September 8, 2020 by Infinite Roofing 1 Comment

In North America asphalt shingles are the top rated choice for a number of reasons that include, their versatility, weather resistance, and so much more. If you are thinking it may be time to replace your old roof, exploring the benefits to asphalt shingles is a good start. Remember your roof is the most important part of your home, it protects you and your family from all elements, so you want the best options available. Roofing materials are only as good as the roofing contractors laying them down, be sure to find the best roofing company in your area with positive reviews to ensure the job is done right the first time.

Versatility

The options are endless when you are looking for a certain color or shape of shingles. Asphalt shingles work with almost every type of roof no matter how large or complicated you think your roof is, these shingles will cover it seamlessly.

Variety & Design

Asphalt shingles come in a wide range of architectural shingle styles. Traditional 3 tab shingles work with many different home styles, dimensional and premium shingles are also available. Some architectural shingles are made to mimic the look of different roofing materials such as cedar shakes, wood or slate. Certain roofing materials like slate are beautiful but hard to work with and very expensive. The use of an architectural shingle that resembles natural slate gives you the advantage of your desired style but not the drawbacks that come with it.

For example, Owens Corning Berkshire shingles are laminated with a unique shadow line behind each tab to add dimension and mimic the look of slate. These shingles give a timeless and elegant look, resembling slate tabs and top of the line protection for your roof

Range of Colors

Not only does asphalt shingles come in a large variety of textures and patterns but many color options as well. If you are not only looking to replace your roof but give your curb appeal an upgrade, choosing a unique color will give it a boost. Up to 40% of your roof is visible from ground level so you should think of a shingle color that will blend harmoniously with its surroundings. Architectural shingle colors come in such a variety of colors, that you can be sure they will match your dream backyard and everything in it!

Affordability

Asphalt shingles are the most cost-effective roofing material and still offer high performance. Coming in at less than half the cost of wood and tile shingles, and significantly cheaper than slate and metal. The affordability of asphalt shingles goes well beyond the product and cost of installation.

Energy Efficiency

When your local roofing contractor installs your roofing system each component increases the energy efficiency of your home. Each layer including the roofs underlayment, decking, starter shingles, and outer shingles help your home to be energy efficient. Certain colors will reflect higher amounts of the suns UV rays which reduces the temperature on your roofs surface. In city areas the vast majority of roofs are covered in ‘Cool’ shingles, decreasing the overall temperature on hot days. This process will keep homes and buildings cooler so less energy is used to cool down the inside. Owens corning Cool Roof Collection are designed to reflect the suns energy and absorb less heat, without limiting style or color options.

Class A Fire Rating

Asphalt shingles can withstand a fire burning through a wooden structure for up to 2 hours, making them the most fire resistant roofing material.

The Best Fireproof Roof Materials for Your Home - All Climate

Algae Resistance

You may not know this but algae is an issue in the roofing industry. Wood allows this type of growth on your roof that looks like black stains across the shingles, if this is a concern many companies offer shingles resistant to algae growth. Owens Corning created a stain guard plus shingle technology specially engineered to release copper over time to fight algae.

How to Clean Algae and Moss Off Asphalt Shingles — Algae Stains

Installation Process

Out of all roofing materials asphalt shingles are the easiest to install. Each roofing contractor may not perform the same job but typically it is much easier to install asphalt shingles, compared to slate or metal. Be sure to do your research and find the best roofing company in your area to be sure the job is done properly.

Weight & Proportions

When you are thinking about replacing your roof there are certain aspects of your home you need to consider. If you have your heart set on a metal roof or slate roof you need to be sure that your home can structurally handle its weight. Fortunately shingles are not so heavy that this becomes a problem.

Ease of Repair

Although we don’t like to think about having to repair a new roof that you just had done, sometimes life happens and down the road you might need a repair. With certain roofing materials such as metal or tile, you might struggle to find a local roofing contractor capable to properly perform the repair. These roofing materials are more difficult to remove in order to get to the problem.

How Long Will My Roof Last?

June 22, 2020 by Infinite Roofing Leave a Comment

How long will my roof last? This varies a lot due to different material choices. The best roofing contractors are skilled at installing many different systems. Poorly installed roofing shingles may only last until high winds come sweeping through your town! A well installed roofing system is going to last longer than the manufacturer warranties it for. Many factors go into the life expectancy of roofing shingles, including southern facing exposure, drastic temperature changes in different regions, the amount of trees and shade the roof receives, severe or coastal weather, the roofing contractor’s skill level, and of course the brand of shingles and underlayments.

Shingle roofing systems – local roofing contractors who are certified usually are the best choice for installing a new shingle roof because they can offer the extended manufacturer’s warranty. Most certified roofing installers have been trained to install a roof per spec and can not get a manufacturer’s certification without the know how. This alone will usually guarantee your roof installation is performed correctly; having enough nails to prevent high wind blow-offs, installing all flashing correctly to prevent premature leaks and guaranteeing the use of premium roofing materials since most manufacturers will not extend a warranty with the use of knock-off materials. When the best roofing contractors install a fully warrantied roofing system, you can expect to get 20-25 years out of a moderately weathered and or sheltered home.

Having a lot of trees around your home can either be great or detrimental to your roof’s life expectancy. Often, trees will cause more harm than good to your roof for the following reasons:

Branches or even the trees themselves can fall and damage your roof.
Other debris such as leaves and needles can also cause issues, blocking your gutters and valleys and encouraging the growth of mold.
Trees can cause moss and lichen to grow on your roof. Once the moss reaches a certain point it starts getting in between the roofing shingles. If this happens, the moss will absorb any moisture and feeds right onto your roof decking, where it causes further damage. At this point, if your roof is not already leaking then it will be soon. If things progress this far, it will cost much more to repair later.
If the trees are too close, animals may be tempted to jump to or nest on your roof.
Too much shade can mean that your roof does not dry off quickly. It can also mean that snow will linger around much longer on your rooftop. This can be detrimental to your roof if ice dams form consistently over time.

However, in the right environment, trees could also be very beneficial to your roof for the following reasons:

These trees may actually help your roof last longer by protecting it from the sun’s harmful UV rays. UV rays will contribute to the breakdown of the components of your roofing system over time. These components are rated to last a certain amount of time in direct sunlight, but often they would last much longer in a more shaded environment.
The right trees can also protect your home from storms and harsh weather without putting your property at more risk.
Shade from trees can help your home stay cooler in the summer and reduce the strain on your air conditioning units.

A well sheltered asphalt shingle roof will last 25-30 years. These well-sheltered houses would also most likely benefit from having gutter guards installed as some houses in the woods need to have their gutters cleaned up to 5 times a year.

The quality of shingle will also greatly affect the roofing system’s life expectancy. Top brand shingle manufacturing companies have developed their roofing shingles through years and years of research and development. GAF’s test lab recently installed a roof using no nails or any fasteners. The roof was put under extreme 140 mph wind conditions and remained fully intact. GAF is also the only shingle company that makes a shingle that is 50% thicker, known as their ULTRA line. These shingles are known to last anywhere from 30-35 years and also improve the looks of the roof because the increased thickness increases the shadow lines creating more contrast for an overall fancier look. As an experienced local roofing company, we can tell you that no other roofing manufacturer comes close to rivalling the consistently high quality of GAF’s shingles.

The quality of underlayments used under the roofing shingles will be another determining factor on how long your roof will last. An upgraded GAF Deck Armor roof allows the decking to breathe while not letting moisture in. This will allow your house’s attic to remain cooler in the hot months decreasing the overall roof temperature preventing the shingles from prematurely aging due to extreme temperatures. Also a higher quality Ice and Water shield will stick tight to the nails penetrating it so that no moisture will get in between the nail holes if you do have ice dams building up along your eaves. A lot of roofing contractors will try and save hundreds of dollars by using the cheap store brands of ice and water which do not really fully adhere to the roof decking, allowing ice build up to rot out the bottom few feet of decking.

Metal roofing systems have an average life expectancy of about 50 years. It is important to only use contractors who have experience installing metal as it is a highly skilled trade. Metal is something you put on your forever home. Standing seam is the Cadillac of metal roofing and is going to have little to no maintenance due to a snap lock panel system. Corrugated roofing is more economical but will need some maintenance from time to time because it has exposed fasteners. These exposed fasteners have little rubber washers creating a watertight seal that eventually fail over the course of the roof’s lifespan. To properly maintain these penetrations and avoid leaks they will need to be caulked after about 20 years. Taking into consideration the maintenance and overall price of a corrugated metal roofing system, it still remains a huge ROI compared to two and a half lifespans of shingles.

Cedar shakes can be expected to last around 30 years. This system will need some maintenance from time to time. The color of cedar shakes darkens and looks more natural as years go on. The overall cost of a cedar shake roofing system does end up costing around the same price as metal but will not last as long and is typically only purchased for aesthetic purposes. Cedar shakes do come in metal and composite look-a-likes which will have a longer lifespan of 50 years. Most local roofing companies will not install cedar shakes due to inexperience.

Slate is the longest lasting roofing product to this date. Some slate had lasted almost a hundred years in the right conditions. Most slate is going to start looking rough and needing continuous maintenance after about 75 years. Slate now comes in composites and can be expected to last just as long as real slate. Local roofing companies who can install slate are usually hard to come by. Most local roofing contractors will not quote for or repair slate, as you have to be so highly skilled or you can easily cause more damage than good.

Rubber roofing or EPDM roofing is most commonly used for flat commercial roofing or smaller porch roof sections on residential homes and will last between 20-25 years. Most manufacturers offer 20 year full coverage warranties if you use their full roofing system, meaning you have to use all quality, name brand seam tape and cover tape. Commercial roofing companies are usually certified by manufacturers because high standards must be met in order for the manufacturers to back their labor and material warranties once they are installed. Commercial roofing manufacturers will send roofing inspectors out after the work is complete to check it meets all their requirements. If the contractors work is sub-par a warranty will not be issued until all aspects have been installed to spec.

A TPO roofing system will last twenty to twenty five years. Only the best roofing contractors in each area will be geared towards installing TPO. Local roofing contractors usually don’t install this system because they do not have the expensive equipment needed to perform heat welds. TPO is also a white reflective roof which will add years to your cooling units lifespans.

Overall you only need high quality materials and high quality workmanship to get the most bang for your buck over the long term. The best way to get the longest potential lifespan out of a roofing system is to choose a quality product that offers a full warrantied system which has to use all high quality accessories to qualify for full coverage. Make sure to ask your contractor which materials are being used and check the contract for brand names on underlayments.

Choosing certified roofing installers who back their work up with their own in house warranty is the safest bet to achieve maximum lifetime efficiency out of the materials you invest in. Check that the local roofing company is listed on any websites they claim to be certified by to ensure that you will receive an actual manufacturers warranty. Most shingle companies will mail you a warranty within a month after your replacement offering you peace of mind for many years to come.

Latest Roofing Trends

May 28, 2020 by Infinite Roofing Leave a Comment

As we all know, the top roofing trends can change from year to year. This means that some homeowners would love to get ahead of the game. Therefore, let’s take a look at some of the most popular trends from 2019 that we will be seeing more of in 2020 and into 2021. Knowing a few roofing trends might help you find some inspiration when you decide to get a full roof replacement.

A consultation with your local roofing company will help you find a solution that adds value to your property and also complement your home’s decor with your desired style and appearance. Thanks to the latest technology and new roofing innovations, these 2019 roofing trends are only growing in popularity.

What are the best roofing systems? How are they trending?

Mixed Material Roofing

There are a lot of popular and latest roofing trends. One of them being mixed material roofing- combining metal and shingle roofs is one of the latest architectural trends. Some homeowners may realize that standing seam metal roofs and flat seam metal roofs are consistently one of the popular choices for reroofing and new roofs. The newest metal roofing trendsetter is a Hybrid Metal and Shingle Roofing System. The combination of metal roof panels and laminated shingles on separate pitched roof sections delivers the visual bang of a metal roof at a much lower cost.

Solar Panels and Solar Shingles

The rise in the popularity of solar power has people continuously expressed a desire to have more options in terms of solar products. The average homeowner is starting to wonder how much solar could save and how simple making the switch could really be. Increasing your home’s energy efficiency, minimizing your carbon footprint and saving on your energy bills makes going solar very appealing to many people.

When solar panels first became available, they had a very clumsy appearance, lack of energy efficiency and were extremely expensive. Making the switch back then just did not seem worth it. Eventually, technology development has allowed solar roofing to become a much more legitimate option for residential homes. Modern solar panels look very stylish and striking, are very energy efficient and are now much more affordable.

The cost of these materials has fallen dramatically in recent years, although it is still by no means a cheap solution. However, as the technology continues to improve, you can expect the benefits to increase and the costs to go down even more. New York is also one of the top states in the country for offering considerable state and federal solar incentives.

Cool Roofing

One of the latest trends local roofing companies get asked about is cool roofing. It is a relatively new technique. Cool roofs have the ability to reflect the visible, infrared and ultraviolet wavelengths of the sun, therefore reducing the heat transfer to the building. It also has the ability to radiate absorbed, or non-reflected solar energy. The best thing about this technique is that it can be applied to a variety of roofing materials, colors, and designs to not only enhance curb appeal but also fit your unique style. A cool roof can significantly improve your energy efficiency, reduce your power bills and reduce wear and tear on your HVAC system. It can also make being inside a lot more comfortable.

Metal Roofs

As a top local roofing contractor, each year we’ve seen a steep rise in the popularity of metal roofing materials. This is definitely a trend we’ll be seeing more of in 2020 and beyond. Due to its aesthetic appeal and functionally, various homeowners with different home types request for metal roofs.

Metal roofs give homeowners a chance to achieve the exact look that they want for their homes since there are a lot of styles, types, and colors to choose from. Metal roofing is stylish and able to mimic other expensive materials through metal shaping and finishing. Also, the metal roof still has a long lifespan without needing any regular maintenance. While the initial expenses for its installation can cost two to three times more than asphalt, homeowners can save money long-term as the highly reflective and insulative aspect of metal roofing reduces heating and cooling costs.

As many people are highly concerned with the environment, metal roofing materials such as aluminum and steel hold much appeal as it contains high percentages of recycled content. Aluminum roofs are also 100 percent recyclable, so there’s no need to worry about roofing materials being dumped in landfills. Thanks to its incredible durability, a metal roof is also a great choice for homeowners concerned with storm damage and costly roofing storm repairs.

Designer Options

This is a varied approach that’s not limited to a single style, material, or design. Instead, a designer roof is one that is built with specific qualities. Live in a storm heavy environment? A designer roof can be installed with storm protection in mind. Live in wildfire heavy areas? Roofs that are fire resistant are available to meet your needs. This is one trend that won’t go away thanks to its high level of customization and sustainability.

Concrete

Today, homeowners want style, texture, and above all durability so they don’t have to worry about costly roofing repairs. With concrete tiles, those desires are easily satisfied. Although extremely heavy, the tiles are incredibly durable and versatile.

Green Roof (or Living Roof)

A more uncommon option right now, but one that is continually growing in popularity, is the living roof. We all know that moss, fungi, and other plant life are hazardous to the roof’s health. However, with professional installation, you can actually have plant life as your roof’s visible exterior, thanks to the protective materials underneath. Homeowners are finding this option saves them money on their energy bill thanks to the extra insulation provided with this roofing choice.

These green roofing systems are easy to distinguish with their multiple layers of engineered soil, protective fabric, a waterproof membrane, and a layer of vegetation to top it all off. The plant life doesn’t just add to the overall aesthetic of your property, it also comes with a multitude of benefits for your home and environment.

Green roofs can be more expensive to install, but they can save you money in the long run. Their insulating properties lowers your home’s electricity bill, and they require very low maintenance. Green roofs work best on a sloped roof where if it storms, plants can absorb some water and drain the excess.

Synthetic Materials

The traditional asphalt shingles are desirable because they’re cheap. Slate, shake, metal, and other sturdier materials are much more expensive. Synthetic shingles made out of recyclable materials such as plastic and rubber are today’s best choices for more sustainable roofing that’s eco friendly. The material can be shaped and designed to look like the more expensive options, but at a fraction of the cost. In addition, the energy efficiency and overall of the product is nothing to scoff at.

With the roof playing such an essential part of the home, it’s no wonder that people are always looking for ways to help it stand out. After all, just because a roof is meant to protect your home, doesn’t mean it can’t look good too. This idea has led to some new and innovative roofing possibilities. You may notice that some of these trends that will be listed were popular in the year 2019.

Asphalt Shingles

For decades, asphalt shingles have been the roofing material of choice for many homeowners, and it’s still going to stay by 2020. Asphalt is a sturdy material with a long lifespan and withstands even the most severe shifts in weather. But besides its excellent performance, these shingles have always been popular because of its affordability.

While they don’t last as long as metal roofing, a good asphalt roof can still last for a long time. Just perform regular maintenance to increase its lifespan for even longer.

Lighter Colors

Gone are the days when people should favor a dark colored roof over a light roof. Some people may be tired of having to look at dark, drab roofs all the time. Also, recently roofing manufacturers have become increasingly aware how much dark colors absorb rather than reflect the sun’s rays. Lighter colors are much better for your building’s energy efficiency. Lighter roofs cost less to cool and you have more control over the heating process. The longevity of the roofing materials can also be increased, since the sun’s UV rays can be destructive over time.

This means such roofs are emerging as a very popular style choice as well as an economical one. Many roof shingles are being produced in shades of soft greens, warm blues, and even neutral colors like taupe, beige and off white. While dark neutral or brown tones will never go out of style, light colors have been gaining popularity every year and are expected to gain more traction for the years to come. However, if you still prefer a dark-colored roof, you can still just add a hint of color to your roof without turning it into a terrible eyesore.

Residential Flat Roofing

As modern styles become more and more popular, local roofing contractors are now seeing flat roofs have also entered the trends for residential homes. Their style perfectly fits into the minimalistic approach many people are favoring these days.

Flat roofs are generally less expensive compared to other roof types and offer more design choices. You can also add solar panels and turn it into a green roof without too many additional expenses. Additionally, they’re easier to install, safer, and more accessible than any other roof type. It’s also possible to utilize a flat roof as an additional living and recreational area for you and your family.

The future of the roofing industry is looking bright, with new innovations and technologies becoming available all the time. The best local roofing companies will keep up with these new trends and keep you informed of the best roofing solutions available for your requirements. Call us today to discuss your options, 518-444-ROOF.

Increase the Energy Efficiency of Your Commercial or Residential Property

February 28, 2020 by Infinite Roofing Leave a Comment

What Makes a Roof Energy Efficient?

Why would you want to make your property more energy efficient? Well it would benefit you by saving money on energy bills, creating less strain on HVAC systems, and minimizing your property’s environmental impact. Basically, for a roof to be energy efficient, it needs to do a good job of reflecting the hot air off your roof instead of absorbing it. When a roof absorbs heat, that warmth is radiated into the air inside the building, and pretty soon the entire interior has become much warmer. A roof that reflects the sunlight off and bounces the heat back out into the atmosphere will do a much better job of protecting the home or business from hot air.

Some roof types that have good reflective qualities are white TPO, PVC and Elastomeric Coatings. Cool roofing is probably the most popular and most effective in terms of energy efficiency for commercial roofs. Residential shingle manufacturers also have cool roofs, but the nuts are very expensive and not yet worth the cost. Manufacturers rate the energy efficiency of the roofing material by what’s called SRI values. You will have a hard time finding SRI values on shingles unless they are part of a cool series line such as GAF’s cool series. A common misconception about shingle roofing is that the lighter the color of the shingle, the cooler the house will be and will result in heating and cooling cost savings. The way the cool shingles work is the granules are coated in a chemical that reflects the heat. The downside is that the coating wears off in time and you will eventually lose your reflectivity, which is where the cost vs savings comes into play. Another roofing material for this type of job is a metal roof. You might think that metal would not be a good choice to save heating and cooling costs because it gets so hot when it sits out in the sun, but that is exactly why it works. The surface of the metal that is exposed to the sun gets super hot because it is reflecting all of the light and heat. Underneath the metal, however, remains relatively cool because the heat has been reflected away. Most commercial buildings will have a metal roofing substrate, and the roofing company will install insulation on top of the metal with a single-ply membrane to ensure the best insulation possible.

Reflective Roof Coating

A reflective roof coating is applied to roofs to help reflect more sunlight from the surface, reducing the amount of heat absorbed by the roof. Also known as cool roofing, these roof coatings are available for different types of surfaces, in a number of colors and thicknesses, and can make a huge difference when it comes to saving money on energy costs and usage. On top of that, they also aid in creating more comfortable indoor environments, and play a role in prolonging the lifespan of your roof and the roofing materials.

The point of cool roof coatings is to keep the home cool in two distinct ways. The first is by solar reflectivity, or the coating’s ability to reflect sunlight as soon as it hits your structure. Instead of absorbing the sunlight and heat like a traditional roof, a cool roof reflects the light and heat away from your home, keeping your home cooler in the process. The other way that cool roofing helps to keep your home cooler is through thermal emittance. These roof coatings are now made with special materials that increase your roof’s thermal emittance level, or your roof’s ability to radiate absorbed heat back into the atmosphere instead of down into your home. It’s this potent combination of high solar reflectance and thermal emittance that make these roof coatings so effective at keeping your home cool and your energy costs and usage down.

Ventilation Cooling

Ventilation is the least expensive and most energy-efficient way to cool buildings. Ventilation works best when combined with methods to avoid heat buildup in your home. In some cases, natural ventilation will suffice for cooling, although it usually needs to be supplemented with spot ventilation.

Insulation

Insulation in your home provides resistance to heat flow and lowers your heating and cooling cost. Properly insulating your home not only reduces heating and cooling costs, but also improves comfort.

To understand how insulation works it helps to understand heat flow, which involves three basic mechanisms: conduction, convection, and radiation. Conduction is the way heat moves through materials, such as when a spoon placed in a hot cup of coffee conducts heat through its handle to your hand. Convection is the way heat circulates through liquids and gases, and is why lighter, warmer air rises, and cooler, denser air sinks in your home. Radiant heat travels in a straight line and heats anything solid in its path that absorbs its energy. Most common insulation materials work by slowing conductive heat flow and to a lesser extent convective heat flow. Radiant barriers and reflective insulation systems work by reducing radiant heat gain. To be effective, the reflective surface must face an air space.

Regardless of the mechanism, heat flows from warmer to cooler until there is no longer a temperature difference. In your home, during the winter, heat flows directly from all heated living spaces to adjacent unheated attics, garages, basements, and even to the outdoors. Heat flow can also move indirectly through interior ceilings, walls, and floors wherever there is a difference in temperature. During the cooling season, heat flows from the outdoors to the interior of a house. To maintain comfort, the heat lost in the winter must be replaced by your heating system and the heat gained in the summer must be removed by your cooling system.

An insulating material’s resistance to conductive heat flow is measured or rated in terms of its thermal resistance or R-value. The higher the R-value, the greater the insulating effectiveness. The R-value depends on the type of insulation, its thickness, and its density. The R-value of some insulations depends on temperature, aging, and moisture accumulation. When calculating the R-value of a multilayered installation, you add the R-value of the individual layers.

Installing more insulation in your home increases the R-value and the resistance to heat flow. In general, increased insulation thickness will proportionally increase the R-value. However, as the installed thickness increases for loose-fill insulation, the settled density of the product increases due to compression of the insulation under its own weight. Because of this compression, loose-fill insulation R-value does not change proportionately with thickness. To determine how much insulation you need for your climate, consult with your local roofing contractor during your free estimate.

Cool Roofs

A cool roof is one that has been designed to reflect sunlight and absorb less heat than a standard roof. Nearly any type of building can benefit from a cool roof, but must consider the climate and other factors that come with the building’s geographic location before deciding to install one.

Just as wearing light-colored clothing can help keep you cool on a sunny day, cool roofing materials that are designed to reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat than a standard roof complete the same objective. Cool roofs can be made of highly reflective types of paint, a sheet covering, or highly reflective tiles, rubber or shingles. Standard or dark roofs can reach temperatures of 150 degrees F or more in the summer sun. A cool roof under the same conditions could stay more than 50 degrees F cooler and save energy and money by using less air conditioning.

Beyond the commercial building itself, cool roofs can also benefit the environment, especially when many buildings in a community have them. Cool roofs can reduce local air temperatures, which is sometimes referred to as the urban heat island effect. Lower peak electricity demand, which can help prevent power outages. Reduce power plant emissions, including carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, nitrous oxides, and mercury, by reducing cooling energy use in buildings.

There are many types of roofing systems available, but the surface exposed to the sun is the one that determines if a roof is cool or not. You can usually make a new or existing roof cool by selecting the appropriate surface or applying a roof coating. Cool roof coatings are usually white or special reflective pigments that reflect sunlight. Coatings are like very thick paints that can protect the roof surface from ultraviolet light and chemical damage, and some offer water protection and restorative features. Roof coating products are available for most roof types.

What is the Most Energy Efficient Roofing Option?

Not only does being more energy efficient help the environment as a whole, but it also can help your pocket book each month. Energy costs, whether it be gas, electricity, or other forms, are at all time highs. Increasing your home’s energy efficiency can be a great help when trying to pay bills. One of the biggest influences on the energy efficiency of a home is the type of roof that it has installed over it. In North America during the summer time it can get really hot, therefore, that means if you are trying to keep that hot air out, you should consider installing a cool roof or cool roof coating. Any homeowner would know that trying to keep the hot air out of the home can be very expensive, simply by running the air conditioner to return the house to a comfortable temperature. When building a residential property or commercial property, picking the right material for your roofing project can make a big difference in your heating and cooling costs down the line.

Commercial Flat Roofing

November 18, 2019 by Infinite Roofing Leave a Comment

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.