3 Things To Consider Before You Purchase Your New Roof

Roofing Materials

This is perhaps the most important thing to consider, especially since there are so many different options when it comes to roofing materials.

For example, asphalt shingles tend to be the least expensive option, but options like metal might last for as long as 50 years. Alternatively, you might prefer clay tiles, which are perfect for hotter climates. Also, consider which materials work better for your home based on the climate. Metal roofing, for example, is commonly preferred for its strength to stand up to storms and hurricanes in Florida.

Style

Beyond picking a material that’s durable and can withstand weather elements, it’s crucial to choose a roof that complements the overall appearance of your home. After all, you’ll be looking at this roof for the next few decades.

This might take you a while to figure out, partially because there are many roofing styles out there. Thankfully, you have no lack of options these days when it comes to style. Options like metal roofs are designed to resemble other materials, while materials like asphalt shingles come in many colors now. No matter what design you prefer, speak to our roofing professionals, and we’ll help you find something you like.

The Roof Shape

Don’t forget about the roof shape. You need to consider the pitch and slope of your roof. If your roof slopes low, you may want to have a flat roof installed. This is something that you can talk to our roofing experts about because we will be able to give you the best recommendations.

Check with our roofing professionals about how strong your roof structure is too. Some materials, like tiles, are heavy, which means that your existing roof may need to be reinforced for your new roofing tiles to be installed safely.

More Factors to Consider

Beyond the intricacies of the roofing materials and aesthetics, you should consider the overall cost too. A new roof installation can be expensive, after all, so ensure that you have the right budget for the materials that you want. Of course, you don’t necessarily have to avoid roofs that are more costly upfront. Most of the time, roofs like metal roofing might cost more to install initially but tend to last longer and don’t get damaged as easily. So over time, the higher initial cost might still be worth it.

Another crucial factor to consider is the maintenance needs and ease of repair of your chosen material. Some materials will be harder to replace depending on their installation process. For example, tile roofing tends to be easier to repair since roofing contractors only have to replace the damaged tiles instead of replacing entire sections.

Conclusion

There’s a lot to consider when it comes to purchasing your new roof. After all, it’s a significant investment, and all homeowners want to get the most out of their budget. Not only do you need to think about the material itself, but you also have to consider things like your roof shape and the overall cost. 

A little research can go a long way, and it’ll always pay off to consult roofing professionals like us. Give us a call today, and we’ll give you some advice on the best roof for your home!

As you already know, there are several different roofing materials to choose from, but metal roofing is one of the more common choices in Florida. Before you decide if it’s a suitable roof material for your home, though, here are a few pros and cons about metal roofing.

Pros of Metal Roofing

Very Durable

Metal roofs are incredibly durable. They can withstand high winds and are fire resistant. As a roofing material, metal will withstand quite a bit before it needs to be repaired or replaced. In many cases, it can last decades with routine maintenance to keep it in good condition. 

Energy Efficient

Something that many people don’t realize is that metal roofing is actually very energy efficient. The metal is frequently painted with a reflective, cooling pigment to help your roof reflect heat during the summer. Additionally, the metal panels are designed to help regulate temperatures inside your home no matter what season it is.

Great for Solar Panels

If you plan on investing in solar panels or you already have, metal roofing is a great option. Installing solar panels on metal roofs is much easier than on other types of roofs and they’ll both last a couple of decades, so you don’t have to worry about replacing your roof until your solar panels need to be replaced.

Low Maintenance

Metal roofs will last a long time and won’t require much maintenance when compared with other roofing materials. They’re very durable, but if they dent or crack, you can replace the panel rather than the entire roof. Even if your roof doesn’t sustain damage, the regular maintenance involved is much less than with shingle or tile roofs.

Environmentally Friendly

As the world becomes more environmentally conscious, metal roofing is a great choice. The material is 100% recyclable and lasts a long time. Comparatively, shingle roofs often end up in landfills and cannot be easily recycled, if at all. 

Cons of Metal Roofing

Noisy

Unfortunately, metal roofs won’t muffle the sounds of rain or debris hitting your roof. During heavy rainstorms, metal roofs will be noisier than other roofing materials. You’ll hear the sounds of rain hitting your roof, but some people do find the pitter-patter of the rain soothing.

Easily Dented

Metal roofs dent easily. If flying debris hits your roof, the metal will take a beating. This won’t necessarily prevent it from protecting your home, and it will still be strong enough to keep you safe, but it can impact the look of your roof, leading to replacement panels or repairs in the dented area.

More Expensive

Metal roofs are certainly not the most expensive roofing option out there, but they are more costly than asphalt shingles. It will take more time, energy, and equipment to install a metal roof, making it more costly to install and repair.

Contact Roof Top Services Today!

If you’re looking for a relatively affordable yet long-lasting roof option, metal roofing is a good choice. It’s cheaper than tile roofs but lasts almost as long. It’s also environmentally friendly, low maintenance, and can come in many different styles. If you have any other questions about installing metal roofing for your home, don’t hesitate to call us today, and we’ll be glad to help!

Energy efficient roofing options keep the air inside your home at a more stable temperature and help reduce your energy bill by making it easier on your AC or heater. By choosing an energy efficient roofing option, you’ll notice a difference in energy bills and the temperature of your home, no matter what time of the year it is.

When it comes to choosing an energy efficient roofing option, here are a few materials to look into:

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles tend to be the go-to choice for roofing materials. They’re affordable and energy efficient; two huge advantages that most homeowners look for. Asphalt shingles don’t need much maintenance and help reflect sunlight without trapping hot air.

Metal

Despite what you may think, metal roofs are actually very energy efficient. As a result, they stay cool and last longer than most other roofing materials. As they are also lightweight, they put less strain on the structure of your home. This, in turn, ensures that your home’s structure and roof remain in good condition for as long as possible.

Metal is a good insulator, making it great at keeping your home at the temperature you want. With a metal roof, your home will be well insulated, whether this means keeping the air conditioned air indoors during summer or ensuring your home is well-heated during the winter.

Tile

Tile roofing materials allow air to circulate. In return, this prevents hot air from being trapped in your attic, crawlspace, or under the tiles. So, in areas that are hot for a majority of the year, tile roofing materials offer a great, energy efficient way to fight the heat and keep your home cool.

Tile also reflects sunlight, making it a great material for dry, hot climates. As tile tends to absorb quite a bit of moisture, it isn’t a good choice for wet climates.

If you do pick a tile roof, remember to choose a color that’s known to reflect heat. For example, darker colors tend to absorb higher levels of heat and make your entire home feel hotter.

Slate

Slate shingles, much like tile, are great at keeping air from getting stagnant and preventing hot air from being trapped in your attic or crawlspace. They’re also extremely resistant to weather, rot, and fire. They’ll last for decades and may even outlive your home, making them a great long-term solution.

Slate is expensive and will weigh down heavily on your home, but you likely won’t need to replace it during your lifetime and for many people, that makes it worth it. Add in the fact that it’s an energy efficient roofing option and many homeowners are sold.

Call Roof Top Services For Roof Recommendations

When it comes to choosing the best roofing material for your home, there are a lot of things to keep in mind. You need to choose a material that will be able to withstand the climate, but you also want something that will be durable and last decades. Fortunately, many energy efficient roofing materials meet those requirements. 

If you’re still unsure which energy efficient roof options are best for your home, don’t hesitate to call us, and we’ll be happy to help with some professional advice.

If you have a low pitched roof, it’s important to keep some pointers in mind when it comes time to decide what roof style you want for your home.

What Is a Low Pitched Roof?

Low pitched roofs are roofs with a very minimal slope. These types of roofs will require additional waterproofing materials and a few extra protections as they won’t shed water as easily.

Typical roof pitches measure 6:12, meaning that for every 12 horizontal feet, the roof increases 6 feet vertically. With a low pitched roof, however, the roof may only change ¼ foot (3 inches) vertically per every 12 horizontal feet. The steepest low pitched roof measures 4:12, increasing 4 vertical feet every 12 horizontal feet.

Concerns With Low Pitched Roof

As can be expected, there are a few concerns that come with low pitched roofs. No matter what the climate is like where you live, these are a few common concerns to keep in mind.

Drainage

Low pitched roofs have a harder time shedding rainwater than steeper pitched roofs. While they will certainly have an advantage over flat roofs, low pitched roofs need to be equipped with extra waterproofing materials to avoid leaks and drainage issues later on. 

Debris Buildup

Because low pitched roofs don’t have gravity working for them, it’s much more likely that debris that lands on your roof will get stuck and stay there. This can be anything from twigs and branches that come from nearby trees to trash and dirt that blows in with the wind.

Debris buildup can lower property value and damage your roof, so it’s important that low pitched roofs are frequently cleaned and inspected for debris and damage. 

Direct Sunlight

Direct sunlight may seem like a great thing if you have solar panels, but it can cause damage to your roofing materials if you have a low pitched roof. Ultraviolet rays can really harm your roof, with or without solar panels, so it’s important to invest in roofing materials that can take the heat.

I Have a Low Pitched Roof, What Are My Roof Style Options?

Just because you have a low pitched roof does not mean that you’re out of luck. There are a number of different roof styles that are possible, you just need to be prepared to invest in the material that will work best with your home aesthetic and your local climate. 

Shingles

Shingles are extremely durable and work great on low pitched roofs. Your roof will need a slope of at least 2:12 in order for most shingles to work, but some roofers may require a steeper slope. In any case, shingles are a great water shedding material and can work on low pitched roofs.

Single-ply Membranes

Single-ply membranes are laid across the surface of your roof and then hot-air welded together. They are often made from PVC or TPO and reinforced with either polyester or fiberglass. They are fairly inexpensive and only require one layer to be efficient, but they do need routine maintenance. 

Torch Down Roofing

Using bitumen, a hydrocarbon-based material, this roofing material is sealed onto the roof using a propane torch. As a result, the material is completely waterproof and won’t expand or contract with the weather. It’s especially great for harsh climates, is easy to repair, and has a long lifespan.

Conclusion

Low pitched roofs require a bit of extra planning, but they aren’t so limiting that you only have one or two roof style options. For more information, speak with our Orlando roofing company, and we’ll help you be able to make an informed decision and pick the best roof style for your home.

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Types of Roof Styles

These days, there are numerous roof styles available that offer great aesthetic protection for your home. Of course, some materials will not be able to withstand harsh storms as well as others, while some will not work well with flat roofs. It’s important to keep the above factors in mind when making your choice.

Asphalt Shingles

One of the cheapest roofing materials available, asphalt shingles are one of the most common roofing materials. They are easy to install and can withstand strong winds and rain. Asphalt shingles generally have a lifespan of about years, although you can choose 3-tab shingles that will last closer to 25 years.

Wood Shingles

Wood shingles are a more aesthetically pleasing shingle option, but they will cost almost twice as much as asphalt shingles. They are a natural alternative but are at a higher risk of catching fire. In areas with high fire danger, wood shingles may be banned, so it’s important to look into this before investing in them if you live in an area where fires are common.

Clay Tile

Clay tiles are most commonly used on Mediterranean-style homes and in the south. They are a classy roofing style and can last a long time, but they are not good for areas where hurricanes or strong storms are common. Clay tiles are fragile and break easily on impact. They also absorb up to 15% of their weight in water, making them extremely heavy during storms and can add strain to your roof.

Concrete Tile

Concrete tiles are more durable and have lower maintenance. Overall, they are known to withstand strong winds and rain. They will cost more than shingles, but they certainly aren’t the most expensive material out there. Given that these tiles will last a lifetime, the mid-level cost can often be well worth it for some homeowners.

Metal

Metal is another roof style that has been around for years. It’s very durable but can be quite expensive depending on the style you choose and if you want it to be made in a special color. For homes with solar energy panels, though, metal roofs are a great investment as the metal will increase energy efficiency and reflect sunlight onto your panels.

Conclusion

The right roof for you is a matter of preference and practicality. It will depend on where you live as well as your budget, so don’t limit yourself when it comes to choosing which material and style is right for you. You may have more options than you realize, so call us today to find out more about the choices you have.

Regular maintenance by an Orlando roofing company will extend its lifespan and make it easier to find potential problems before they arise. To make the most out of your cleaning though, here are a few of our tops tips for spring cleaning your roof.

1. Clean Out Your Gutters

Even if you cleaned out your gutters in the fall, they’ll need to be checked again in the spring. During the winter, leaves, twigs, and other debris can blow in and get stuck in your gutters, so checking and cleaning your gutters should be your first step to cleaning your roof.

Gutters are always going to need cleaning, so it shouldn’t surprise you that you’ll need to work on them even in the spring. By getting them cleared out at the beginning of the season, you ensure that your draining system is working and there isn’t a risk of water damage or clogging.

2. Check Your Shingles

As the first line of defense, your shingles will take a beating over time. While your cleaning up your roof, don’t forget to give your shingles a good, close inspection to see if there are any that are loose or missing.

If you have shingles that are starting to curl, get them replaced immediately. You’ll also want to take care of any shingles that are beginning to buckle as this can cause moisture problems in the future.

3. Mold

You may have already had to deal with mold in your home, but mold can also grow on and in your roof. Fortunately, if you catch it early on, taking care of a mold problem won’t get too expensive or difficult. 

Inspect your roof closely for signs of mildew and mold. If you see any, call a roofing professional to take care of it as soon as possible. For mold that hasn’t grown too much, you can try home remedies, but you’ll want to call a professional as soon as you notice the mold continuing to grow.

4. Trim Branches

Do you have trees anywhere on your property or near your roof? Remember to trim those branches. Although it may not seem directly related to roof cleaning, trimming the branches on trees near your roof can protect it from a lot of damage. If a storm hits suddenly and those branches start to drop, your roof can really take a beating.

5. Look Around Inside

If you have an attic or crawl space below your roof, get in there and look around. Sometimes roofing problems can show from the inside before they show on the outside. 

While you’re inspecting your roof from inside, call a roofing company to come check if you notice any moisture or light where there shouldn’t be. Any smell or sign of mold from the inside should also be a cause for worry.

6. Get a Roof Inspection

Even if you think you’ve taken great care of your roof, it’s important to have it inspected by a professional company. Experts can detect problems before you can even see them and prevent a lot of unnecessary expenses in the future. With a roof inspection, you’ll also save yourself time and you can rest assured that they’ll spot issues that you may have missed.

Conclusion

Spring cleaning is a lot of work, but don’t be tempted to ignore your roof. Just like the rest of your house, your roof is important and needs to be cleaned regularly as well. The last thing you want is to ignore a sign of damage and have to deal with an expensive fix.

Roofs are also a significant investment and although they have to be fixed or replaced after many years, there are some things you can do to make them last longer. Check out these tips that Orlando roofing companies recommend. 

How to Make your Roof (Commercial or Residential) Last Longer

Clean Your Gutters Regularly

It’s a common problem that gutters get clogged up by various types of debris such as leaves and branches. It might be a chore to clean them up but if you want your roof to last longer, you might want to get your gutters cleaned regularly. 

Roofs are designed to keep water away and clogged gutters will just keep water stuck up there. Standing water will eventually lead to roof damage.

Avoid Power Washing

Power washing is great for cleaning dirt in an instant as the strength of the water can just push dirt and grime right off. However, the strength of that water pressure comes at a price. 

If you want your roof to last longer, it is not advisable to power wash your roof shingles. The shingles are specially coated with materials that make them great at what they do and the strength of the power washer can possibly remove that outer coating. 

Active Maintenance

Active maintenance means that you are on top of everything that could possibly go wrong with your roof. This may sound like a labor-intensive task but it really is one of the best ways to make sure that your roof can last as long as it can. 

Firstly, active maintenance involves fixing tiny problems right away. Tiny problems might not seem much at first but there are tiny problems that can snowball in the long run and significantly impact the longevity of your roof. 

Although it can be quite the chore, fixing those problems while they are tiny is significantly better and easier than waiting for those problems to become irreparable. 

Strengthen Your Roof

Roofs are sturdy structures that can hold up against typical weather conditions but if you live in an area that is prone to harmful weather conditions such as tornadoes, storms, and hurricanes, then it might do you good to invest in fortifying and strengthening your roof. 

This type of upgrade can be a significant investment. However, it is still cheaper than replacing the roof entirely in the event of a natural disaster. 

Hire a Professional

It is understandable that you might want to take on the challenge of installing and upgrading your roof on your own. Realistically though, you have to understand that while doing things yourself can save you some money, the quality of the result from your work versus a professional’s is completely different. As roofing professionals, we are equipped with the right tools, equipment and years of experience to do the job effectively.

Conclusion

Your roof is a significant part of your home or building and if there’s any way you can help make it last longer, you should. Listed above are just a few things that can help make roofs last longer so keep these tips in mind to make your investment last decades.

Old roofs are always going to be of concern. If the previous owners have kept up with maintenance on the roof by hiring roofing companies in Orlando, it could still be in good condition for many years to come. However, bad installation or poor upkeep could mean a roof replacement is very much in the future, and you need to look out for the shingles and tiles as well.

Before you put down your hard-earned money for a particular property, you most certainly need to check out the roof. 

What to Look for in the Roof When You’re Buying a Home

The Condition of the Roof

First of all, you need to know just how old the roof of your new home is. In fact, you need to dive a little deeper as the age will not tell you everything you need to know about the roof. 

Take a closer look at the roof, check for damages, bulges, bubbles, or any other distortions at the edges. Missing shingles or tiles are also indicators of poor condition. Do ask the seller about the lifespan of the roof. 

Depending on the materials used to construct the roof, there are differing factors that can contribute to the longevity of the roof.

Roof Cracks and Leaks

It is in your best interests to check thoroughly for any potential cracks or leaks in the roof. The last thing you want when moving into a new home is to have a leak in the roof. Aside from the repair works and the money spent, your overall living conditions will be affected as well. Furniture can be destroyed, and your walls will get damaged. 

Leaking can occur in many different areas, so it can be hard to pin down just where the source of a leak is. The earlier you can detect the problem, the better.  

Examining the Ventilation System

Depending on the weather and climate of the area you are in, a good ventilation system can be the difference between bliss and disaster. A good roof should be complemented by a good ventilation system. 

A properly put-together ventilation system will allow for sufficient sunlight as well as airflow, this will help prevent mold and water from building up. With poor ventilation, you are looking at potential problems such as structural decay and health risks for everyone living in the property. 

Check out the Seepage and Drainage Systems too

When we talk about the seepage and drainage system, this includes the various downspouts, gutters, and drainage pipes. 

The condition of these systems are oftentimes reflective of a roof’s overall condition. If you see small pieces of asphalt shingle grains, that could be a cause for worry. These small grains are vital in shielding the roof shingles from the sun, so if there is too much of the material, you might need to bring in an expert to handle the problem.

Conclusion

It is essential to take all the necessary precautions when buying a house, especially for the roof. If you are unable to do this on your own, hire a professional to inspect the home for you. This way, you can get a better understanding of your purchase, and plan for any repair works if need be.

Luckily, it’s pretty easy to decide once you know the signs that point to each option. To help make the decision easier for you, we’ve compiled a list that should make it clear whether your roof needs a repair or a replacement. 

Roof Repair

Roofing repair tends to be the favored method of remedying roof problems. This is because it’s cheaper, easier, and less of a hassle. However, roof repairs can’t remedy all problems and sometimes a roof will need to be replaced, regardless of how much one wishes it could be fixed with a basic repair.

If you’re encountering problems such as torn or damaged shingles, which can result from strong wind or fallen trees, the good news is that repair is likely the best option. You can easily remove the affected shingle and replace it with a new one. 

It’s important to keep in mind though, that not all shingles look the same and sometimes your replacements will look different than the existing ones. This can be a downside if you’re looking to sell your home in the near future.

When Are Repairs A Good Option?

In addition to when you have problems with shingles, roof repairs can be a good option when the issue involves:

• Holes
• Punctures
• Splitting
• Shrinking
• Bad installation
• Lack of maintenance
• Chimney leaks
• Mistakes from air gun nailing 

Roof Replacement

Replacing your roof is a big step. It requires a lot of man power and can quickly add up in terms of cost. It is, unfortunately, necessary when repairs are no longer a viable, sensible option.

To have a roof replaced, home owners spend almost double what they would for roof repairs but they also benefit from the assurance that all areas of their roof will match seamlessly. 

In addition, roof replacement is less common than needing repairs and is most likely to happen as a result of extreme weather conditions,age, and faulty materials. 

When Is A Replacement A Good Option?

Roof replacements are the best options when:

• Your roof is failing due to the use of poor materials or installation
• You house has been hit with extreme weather (tsunamis, earthquakes etc)
• Your roof has been serving your home for a long time

Questions To Ask Yourself

When you’re deciding whether you need a repair or a replacement, consider asking yourself the following questions.

What’s My Budget?

Your budget is the key factor here. Without a large enough budget, you might not be able to get the replacement you need. If it’s generous enough though, you can basically choose which option feels right to you and, in this case, you’ll want to take some extra time to make a careful decision. 

How Long Will I Continue Living In My Home?

You might not realize it now, but when it comes to selling your home, your roof can be a big factor. With a roof that has been left patchy from repairs or is breaking down and in need of TLC, it can be hard to find a buyer. 

This might not be a problem in the short term but can quickly cause problems should you decide to move out. So if you need work done and are planning to move or are considering the idea, you may want to opt for a new roof instead of a repair just to be safe. 

What Do I Need Done?

It’s important to be honest with yourself when you’re taking an inventory of what your roof needs done to it. Ignoring a host of problems to avoid having to do a roof replacement will not do you any good in the long run.

Next time you’re in the market for some roof maintenance, be sure to avoid cutting corners. Do the repairs you need and, if necessary, fork out the money for the replacement. When deciding which option is best, don’t forget to consider your budget, your problems, and the future you see with your home.