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 […][…]
Venice roofing company
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.[…]
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 […][…]
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 […][…]
Schedule a baseline roof inspection to determine the health of your roof in its current condition. By fixing any vulnerabilities you may find, you can ensure that small problems on your roof do not become big problems in your home.[…]
The South Florida summer storm season is right around the corner, so now is the time to think about preparing for all the wind and rain.[…]
The great majority of the time, any issues identified during a roof inspection can be fixed and remediated before they become a larger problem.[…]
When it comes to living in Florida, solar power just seems to make sense. In fact, here in the Sunshine State the idea of installing solar panels as a primary source of power is catching on. Why Go Solar in 2019? There is a 30% federal tax credit which is applicable to solar systems installed before December 31, 2019. (There are smaller credits for systems installed in subsequent years.) If you have been meaning to investigate this form of alternate power, this is your year! Some Quick Statistics About Solar Energy Systems It is estimated that it will take you 9 1/2 years to reach “payback” for installing a solar system, and that you will save approximately $50,000 over the life of the system once capital expenditures have been covered. With solar, you will pay an average of 7 cents per kwh. The average forecast for standard energy is 24 cents over the next 25 years. Florida currently ranks 11th in the United States in solar power consumption. Although cost savings are an incentive, many people are primarily drawn to solar power for its “green” benefits. Preparing Your Roof for Solar Panels Most new solar panel systems will last for up to 25 years. Therefore it is important that your roof be newer (or installed new just before the solar panels are implemented) in order to be sure that the roof does not fail before the system. In addition to having a new roof, there are some steps you will need to follow in order to safely install solar on your home. Determine if your home is positioned correctly for a solar array. For instance, a large portion of your roof must face the south or southwest, and the roof’s slope should have a pitch which presents optimal exposure to sunlight. A flat roof will afford you the best results, while a sharply sloped roof may not be feasible. Be sure to ask the professional installer for recommendations, as they have the expertise you’ll need. Once the suitable area (s) of your roof are identified, all obstacles will need to be cleared. Roof vents will need to be relocated, as will satellite dishes or antennas. Skylights will need to be tiled over prior to installation. Identify and remove any trees or tree branches which will cast a shadow on the system. Important to note: proper permits may be required to move roof vents. Do consult a professional. Measure the area of your roof where you will install the system. Determine the length and width of the roof section beginning at the eaves; multiply these numbers to determine the area of the roof. Experts recommend that you have a 200- to 400-square-foot area of roof space available. Contract with a certified structural engineer or architect to verify that your roof will be able to withstand the additional weight and stress of solar panels over the years. They can make recommendations as to any reinforcement or structural changes which will allow for […][…]
For those planning to complete a DIY roof repair - or installing a completely new roof - here are some of the most common mistakes we see.[…]