With advances in roofing materials and construction methods, your roof longevity of a new installation is now expected to be many decades. In fact, a new asphalt shingle roof may last up to 30 years or more with proper maintenance, and a clay tile roof is likely to last at least a decade or two longer. The truth is, however, that without proper maintenance and attention to our roof after storms, we may find ourselves dealing with roof problems prematurely. Here are several actions you can take to maximize your roof longevity and keep your family safe and dry for as long as possible. Extend Your Roof Longevity Take Stock of the Situation Immediately: Call today for a roof inspection. Although you may not be aware of any problems on your roof, it is not uncommon for a very small, insignificant issue to become a major problem over the course of a stormy summer season. By inspecting your roof prior to the rainy month, you can fix any minor imperfections before they wreak havoc on the condition of your roof. We recommend an annual inspection, with the optimum time for this annual check to be during the dry winter months. Repair any Problems Right Away: A loose tile or a broken shingle is easy to repair – a major roof leak may not be. Take care of any issue which may become a leak, or an area of intrusion, and you won’t have to worry about debris or water infiltrating the small breach during a severe storm. Be sure the roof is sealed and watertight now, before the first deluge when it may be too late. The more damage done to your roof, the less its structural integrity – and the shorter its likely life span. Clear Away Debris and Branches: Too much built up dirt, mold or algae can cause your roofing materials to erode before their time. These problem areas often manifest in shadier areas of your roof, so trimming tree branches back and off the roof is a great way to avoid this premature aging. Tree branches can also cause structural damage to your roof during severe weather, so keeping them as far from your roof as possible is likely to assist in maximizing your roof longevity. Clean Your Roof Gently: Sometimes even the best of intentions can damage your roof. Cleaning with too harsh of a detergent or too powerful a stream of water may cause you to damage or erode your roofing materials before their time. Consult a local Venice roofing contractor if you have any questions regarding cleaning your roof – and don’t ever step on a tile roof! This could do serious damage to your tiles in a short period of time. Ask About a Roof Coating: Some roofing materials can benefit from a roof coating, either to repel water or to reflect harsh sunlight. You may also be able to rejuvenate an asphalt shingle roof’s coating with new granules or marble chips. Be […][…]
Residential Roofing
Asphalt shingle is a very common roofing material in Venice and Englewood. Shingles are relatively easy to install and are more cost-effective than other types of roofing materials, such as tile, slate or stone. Although these types of shingles do not exhibit the overall longevity of their counterparts, they still offer up to 20 years -and often more – of useful life. Given that the average Florida homeowner will move to a new residence every 9 years on average, one new asphalt shingle roof is likely to last for the duration of their ownership. However, often property owners will notice a build-up of asphalt shingle granules in their gutters and downspouts. This accumulation of granules is generally an indication that your shingle roof needs attention and maintenance. Why Asphalt Shingle Granules are Important to the Life of Your Roof Asphalt shingle tiles have come a long way over the last several decades. Now available in a range of colors, homeowners can match their home’s paint color and are no longer relegated to the standard gray palette (although that is still a very popular option). Tiles are comprised of more fiberglass than in recent years, which makes them even more affordable. However, for those looking for a sturdier, more traditional tile, organic asphalt shingles are still available. Asphalt shingle tiles are traditionally made by soaking a mat with asphalt and covering the tile with granules, which are made of a mixture of slate, schist, quartz, vitrified brick, stone, or ceramic. The surface granules are instrumental in blocking ultra-violet light, providing some protection to the asphalt core and resulting in more overall longevity for the roof. In South Florida, consumers may also choose a lighter color of asphalt shingle granules, which will help to reflect sunlight and keep the roof a bit cooler. However, with the granules absorbing the brunt of our harsh Venice sunshine, they can deteriorate due to the persistent heat. Relentless rainstorms over the spring and summer months can also cause the granular protective coating to erode and may cause the roof to begin shedding granules. Flying debris, low hanging tree branches, and algae and moss build up can all contribute to granular loss on your shingle roof. If you are noticing granules in your gutter system or downspouts – or if you simply notice that the tiles are “balding”, this means that your roof materials are eroding, and do require some attention. Tiles with granular loss are even more susceptible to cracking, breaking and curling due to weather conditions. Once a tile is deteriorating, you run the risk of water intrusion or damage to the underlayment. The Good News About Asphalt Shingle Repair Very often, it is just an area of your roof which needs repair due to granular loss. Because asphalt shingle tiles are relatively easy to replace – and are cost effective – you may be able to do spot repairs. The biggest problem that homeowners report is a difficulty in matching the shades on their […][…]
The rainy season is nearly upon us in Venice and Englewood, and for the next 6 months, we can expect a substantial amount of precipitation to fall. This is not the time to discover an active leak on your roof. We recommend that you conduct your annual roof inspection before the May showers begin. This will allow you to identify any minor damage, leaks, or damage which may have occurred during last year’s wild weather and the throughout the winter. Before the rains begin, it is best to make sure your roof is in top condition, as the additional water and high winds of our storm season can easily further aggravate a current defect on your roof. How to Spot an Active Leak During a Storm Unless there is a catastrophic storm, the chances of water pouring into your home unexpectedly are very slim. However, any current holes or cracks in your roofing materials may, in fact, result in an active leak when the rain gets heavy. If you have not had a roof inspection and are experiencing the first deluge of the season, you can proactively look for any signs of an active leak. In the Attic: Your attic space is often one of the best places not only to spot a leak but to accurately gauge where the water is actually intruding. Because water always follows the path of least resistance, it often follows a non-linear path from the point of intrusion to the interior of your home. By spotting the leak in your attic, you are much more easily able to see where the water is getting into the structure. Look for drips, wet framing, dark or stained wood, and damp or compacted insulation as a sign of an active leak. If you see water coming in, try to stop it as best you can and make note of the area so your roofing contractor can repair your roof once the roof dries off. In Your Home: Often, a Venice homeowner doesn’t realize that there is an active leak until they see the evidence on their interior ceilings or walls. If you see wet spots, water drops pooling, or if the drywall is bulging and damp, you likely have an active leak. In this case, it is best to actually open up a larger hole in the drywall to allow the water to flow freely out, instead of further backing up into other areas of the walls. If possible, do go up to the attic to see if you can find and stop the leak from that vantage point. You should also remove or protect furniture and floor coverings inside until the active leak can be repaired. If water is filling containers consistently, you may wish to utilize a garbage can on wheels, as it will be easier to move. Watch the Windows: If your windows or skylights are showing signs of condensation in between the panes, or if there are water droplets around the frame, protect […][…]
Because of our year-round sunshine, solar energy is an attractive option for many South Florida homeowners. Taking advantage of the strong rays in order to make your home greener and more energy efficient is a smart move in most cases. However, the implications of installing solar panels on their roof do raise questions for many Venice residents. In this area, a tile roof is a very popular option. Floridians love the aesthetically pleasing terra cotta look, and a properly installed roof made of tile is likely to last for up to 40 years with routine maintenance. But individual tiles can also crack or break when walked on, or when flying debris strikes them during a storm. So the question arises – can you safely install solar panels without causing tile roof damage? Can I Install Solar Panels Safely? The short answer to that question is yes. But to do so requires that you find an experienced, qualified, licensed and insured roofing contractor or solar panel installer The fact is that even stepping out onto your tile roof can cause damage. Therefore, trying to save money by hiring a handyman – or doing the installation by yourself – may end up being the costliest thing you can do. Inexperienced installers may not have adequate training, may install panels on a roof which is not a good candidate to carry the weight of the panels, or not take the overall health of your roof into consideration. In addition to tile roof damage, you could also be causing cracks, holes, and breaches which may allow roof leaks. As we have discussed, even small leaks can wreak substantial damage, affecting roofing structure, eaves, attic insulation, and even interior walls and systems. By hiring a professional, you can assure yourself that not only will your solar panels be installed correctly, but your roof integrity will be protected. In fact, in regards to properly installed systems, roof leaks a relatively uncommon occurrence. Is Your Roof a Good Candidate for Solar Panels? Before scheduling solar installation, call for a roof inspection to make sure that you have at least 5 good years of effective life remaining. If you install solar panels and the roof needs replacing in two years, you will have to pay additional money to have the panels removed and then reattached to the new roof. If your roof is within several years of needing replacement, you may wish to install a new roof and the solar panels all at once. How Are Panels Installed to Avoid Tile Roof Damage? Rooftop panel arrays are most often attached to your roof on mounting panels and bolted down with specialized hardware. Lag bolts are common, as they are thick and sturdy, and designed to withstand the high winds and heavy impacts which are possible during severe thunderstorms or hurricanes. A solar panel installation team will have to drill into your roof to securely install the bolts, and while a hole in your roof doesn’t sound safe, proper […][…]
Skylights are a popular way to not only increase the natural light in homes but to save on electricity bills and increase natural ventilation.[…]
Summer in Venice means hot, humid weather and lots of rain. These extreme weather conditions can have adverse affects on home and property if we are not properly prepared. Before heading into the dog days of summer, you should check your roof ventilation and attic insulation to make sure they are ready for the season. Roof Ventilation Your roof and attic need to be properly ventilated in order to regulate the air temperature and guarantee that your home energy is as efficient as possible. Heat and moisture naturally want to rise, and vents allow these elements to be released. Without proper ventilation, you may experience a variety of problems with your home: Increased energy costs Damaged roof system components Deterioration of insulation Water damage caused by condensation Dry rot to plywood decking due to extreme heat Rust corrosion of metal nails, straps and HVAC ducting clamps Mold and mildew There are three types of ventilation systems most often utilized in Florida homes. Ridge Vent: A ridge vent is a ventilation strip that is located along the ridge line of your house. Ridge vents work by allowing the hot air to escape up and out through small holes. They are popular choices not only for their effectiveness, but because they blend so easily into your home’s structure – and are barely visible from the ground. Ridge vents also reduce indoor air pollution, and alleviate many residential pest control issues. Soffit Vents: A soffit vent is an intake vent in the soffit area of the home (under the eaves). Soffit vents provide attic venting at a lower portion of the roof deck, and are generally used in conjunction with other forms of venting such as ridge vents which expel the hot air. They are typically painted to blend in with the home and soffit. Gable Vents: Gabled vents are louvered vents which allow air to be drawn out of the attic space but prevent rain and precipitation from flowing back into the home. Proper Attic Insulation Attic insulation is necessary to keep excessive hot, humid air from entering your home. Without proper insulation, your air conditioner will be forced to work harder and the energy efficiency of your home will be decreased. It is important to check your insulation periodically to look for any deterioration caused by prior roof leaks or pest infestation. If your insulation needs to be replaced or replenished, call your local roofing contractor. We can help you with choosing the right R-value, the number which represents how well a certain type of material stops heat flow from one area to another. In hot climates such as South Florida, the target R-value is 30. The most common types of insulation are: Fiberglass batt is the least expensive type of insulation, and is most often used in warmer climates where moisture is not a big problem. Made of fiberglass fibers, this product is sold in predetermined lengths and widths to fit in standard joint spacing. The rolls are lightweight, easy […][…]
If I gave you a quote and you have a lanai porch on the back of your house, you’re going to use the same material that we use on this commercial roof. So let’s go ahead and take a look.[…]
Living in South Florida, we are well aware that the summer months bring strong storms with them. Yes, it is hurricane season – but even in the absence of a named storm hitting our area, we can expect heavy rainfall during this time of year. In fact, data shows that those of us in Venice can expect to see monthly rainfall between 7 and 8 inches from June through September – which is 3x the amount of rain we see at other times of the year. Not only that, but that rainfall tends to accumulate not due to long, steady days of rain – but instead, as a result of daily deluges of heavy rain in a short period of time. Such severe weather can quickly turn a small roofing problem into a major leak. This is why it is so important to address any necessary roof repair before the rains begin this season. Signs You Need Roof Repair Obviously, the first thing that needs to be established is if you have any current roof leaks, no matter how small. There are several ways to determine if your roof has already sustained water intrusion. First, check in your attic for any signs of damaged wood framing, compacted insulation, or darker areas which may indicate mold growth. If it begins to rain, you can check the attic during the storm to look for any water leaking and trace it back to the source. Another way to spot a roof leak is to inspect all of your interior walls and ceilings. Minor water intrusion will look like a discoloration or stain, while a more serious leak may cause a bulge, often with condensation or moisture forming. Even if you do not have a current roof leak, you will want to inspect the roofing materials for any signs of damage or deterioration. Asphalt shingles may curl up at the edges, or may be missing altogether. You will want to check to see if they are losing significant amounts of granules, which indicates that they are losing structural integrity. Hint: You can often determine if shingles are deteriorating by observing excessive amounts of granules in your gutters. Asphalt shingles also often suffer loosened sealant which may need to be reapplied. Tile/clay roofs are susceptible to broken or cracked tiles. Although there is protective underlayment under these tiles, the roof is designed to protect the home utilizing two lines of defense. Therefore broken tiles, which will allow water to seep through the cracks, should be immediately replaced. Flat roofs which are experiencing ponding should likely be inspected as well. A “flat” roof is designed with a slight slope which allows the rainwater to drain off the roof. If water is ponding, you could have some structural damage under the roof, compacted or missing insulation, or even a clogged drain or gutter system. Standing water always poses a risk of leaks, so these symptoms should be inspected by a roofing professional as soon as possible. Check […][…]
When examining the integrity and health of your roof, you understand that a roofing professional will inspect the exterior of your roof, as well as the roofing materials. What you may not expect is that an expert roofer will also perform an attic inspection. The attic inspection is actually a very important part of understanding the overall condition of your roof. Why is an Attic Inspection Necessary? If at all possible, a roofing professional will request access to your attic when assessing your roof. There are several key areas of information which can be gleaned from taking a look underneath the exterior. Check the Insulation: The attic is one part of the house in which the insulation can be clearly seen. Not only does having the proper amount of insulation help you to keep your home cooler during the hot summer months, but looking at the insulation’s condition can give us clues as to any water intrusion which may be taking place. If your insulation is matted down, compressed and/or damp, there is a very good chance that water is leaking in from somewhere. While you may not see any visual deterioration and damage on the exterior, wet insulation will necessitate further investigation into where the leak is occurring. Evaluate the Ventilation: One of the more critical aspects of roof construction is how well the attic space under the roof is ventilated. Household moisture often makes its way up into the attic, and in the Venice area, the attic is also likely to be very hot. A well ventilated attic will work to release some of that heat and moisture – which will help with energy efficiency and a less-stressed air conditioner. Too much attic moisture can lead to mold growth and wood damage. A properly ventilated attic will have plenty of vents along the lower portion of the attic space to allow air in, while the upper part of the attic will provide enough venting to allow hot air and humidity to leave the space. Take a Look at the Framing: An attic inspection will include inspecting the wood framing, which is not visible in most parts of the home – but can give important clues as to the quality of the roof construction. Remember, the attic framing and roof sheathing is part of the overall roof system. Proper construction practices are necessary to not only ensure that the roof is properly supported, but in South Florida, to ensure that the house is protected against the high winds we are susceptible to. The catastrophic effects of Hurricane Andrew, which devastated areas of Florida in 1992, were responsible for a radical change in the building codes. However, if a home was built prior to 1996, those codes may not have been implemented. Look for Signs of Water Intrusion: Aside from the insulation, an attic inspection will also look for stained roof sheathing/framing; as well as stains or water marks on vent pipes which protrude through the roof. Some stains may […][…]
Out of sight, out of mind. The roof over our head is something we just assume is there – it is a rare homeowner who considers the condition of their roof unless they are concerned that something is going wrong. Still, between a “newly installed roof” and a “roof which needs replacing” is a lot of time, wear and tear and maintenance. We all understand that it is important to fix our roof when we discover roof damage or a roof leak. But a question we hear often at is this – “Do I really need to wash my roof? ” Is it Necessary to Wash My Roof? One of the most compelling reasons to wash your roof is simply keeping up appearances. A dirty or moss covered roof can significantly detract from the curb appeal of your home – meaning a roof cleaning prior to selling your home is definitely recommended! Even if a dirty roof doesn’t worry you personally, in the Venice area we have many HOAs (homeowner associations) which do require residents to clean their roof on a regular basis, in order to maintain the standards of the community. Asphalt shingle roofs are susceptible to mold and algae growth, and both of these conditions can greatly reduce the health and longevity of your roof. Therefore, if you have a roof made out of asphalt shingle and you notice the tell-tale dark spots on your roof, you may wish to consider gently washing your roof. Clay tile and terra cotta roofs present less of a problem, as these materials are not conducive to mold or algae growth. While you may find small areas in shady parts of the roof, overall cleaning your tile roof is a matter of choice. Gently Cleaning Your Roof If you decide to clean your roof, you may wish to keep a few things in mind: You should never step out onto your roof unless absolutely necessary. You may actually do damage to the roofing materials if you do so. Use a ladder, a hose with a spray nozzle, or a power washer on a low level. Remember that asphalt shingle roofs are subject to deterioration through granular loss, so you want to be very gentle with any method of cleaning. Granular loss will shorten the lifespan of the shingle. If you see loose granules running into the gutter, stop cleaning and consult a roofing contractor as how to proceed. Most dirty roofs can be cleaned utilizing only water, but your local roofing contrctor may also have suggestions as to mild cleansing solutions which are acceptable and safe for your roof. Roof maintenance is more than just waiting for a roof leak and fixing problems as they occur. By calling a roofing professional for an annual inspection; making sure gutters are clear and allowing water to flow; cleaning algae, and mold and debris off your roof on a regular basis – you can be assured that you are doing the most you can to ensure […][…]