Do I really need to check my roof?
Your safety and confidence in getting up on your roof is critical. A full inspection is going to require that you go up and take a look. Do not hesitate to get a roofing contractor to do your inspection for you. There are some things you can do from the ground or inside. It won’t constitute a real “inspection” but it will at least help you set the level of urgency for calling your roofing guy.
How many types of asphalt shingles are there?
There are two types of asphalt shingles. One is organic, meaning it is composed of an organic felt that is usually paper saturated with asphalt. The other, glass fiber, has a layer of fiberglass embedded in it. Both are good roofing products and the glass fiber is more commonly used because it is less expensive. The organic is heavier, which makes it a good choice for climates with high winds.
What can I check for without getting on the roof?
First, you need to visually inspect the roof from outside from the best angle you can find. Look for the obvious things like debris or missing shingles.
You can also get up in the attic and look for these telltale signs of roof problems:
- Visible daylight through the roof or around chimneys or vents.
- Dark stains that might indicate leakage.
- Evidence of insects, mold or mildew.
If you see any of those, call TRIO roofer with a sense of urgency.
What do I look for when I am on the roof?
Overall what you are looking for is damage or anything that could be a potential leak.
- DEBRIS
If debris from leaves or branches is present on your roof, clean the spot affected. Debris can collect water and weakening your roof.
- OPEN GAPS
Look for any openings along roof vents, chimneys, or plumbing boots. These areas should be repaired and the area below the open gaps inspected for potential water damage.
- MISSING SHINGLES
Visually inspect for bare spots. Missing asphalt shingles can lead to water seeping into your attic.
- SHINGLES LIFTING
If you notice shingles lifting the chances them remaining on your roof is shortened considerably. Lifting shingles become missing shingles.
- MOLD AND MOSS
If you have patches of moss growing on your roof, you have some issues. First, you need to clean it off, but there is likely some other issues such something holding water on the roof rather than draining.
- GUTTERS
check them for debris and to make sure they are well attached.
If you see any of those, call TRIO roofer with a sense of urgency.
In absolute dollars, a metal roof costs more than asphalt, about the same as cedar shake or tile, but less than slate. Considering the durability, metal is the best roofing value.
They would corrode rapidly, due to the electrolytic action between the iron and copper. Galvanized nails would be even worse; you need copper (or possibly brass) nails to do the job.
Due to the nature of most roof constructions, whether in tiles, slates, mineral felt or corrugated metal sheeting the actual point source of a leaking roof can be located well away from the place where the water is dripping or where damp-stains are apparent.
When inspecting for the source of leaks first check the areas of your roof that are exposed to the prevailing winds. On flat roofs check for areas of ponding (puddles of water sitting on the surface of the roof). Flat roofs and low pitched roofs which are covered in Mineral Felt, Asphalt, GRP (Fiberglass) and EPDM or Rubber Sheeting − are prone to leaking at joints and at junctions of the roof with house walls or parapets.
For flat and low pitched roofs there are two approaches that may depend on the urgency of the situation and the prevailing weather conditions.
Repairs using sheet materials: traditional flat roofing surfaces, such as mineral felt, and bitumen may be replaced using the same materials. However, there are some potential disadvantages to the specification of these materials. The disposal of old roofing felts and bituminous coatings will now incur a significant cost due to environmental charges levied by Local Authorities.
Permanent Repairs to low pitched and flat roofs, balconies, walkways etc. can usually be done economically and effectively with liquid membranes that will give a seamless and flexible coating with high adhesion and resistance to U.V. (Ultra Violet Light).
On pitched roofs, broken or displaced tiles or slates are often the cause of leakages.
No, although it’s a common misconception.
Typically 40-60 years; some well beyond that.
Lightning seeks the shortest route to the ground usually the highest place regardless of material. In fact a metal roof might help dissipate the charge better.
As long as you follow all the safety precautions, just like you would on an asphalt roof.
Actually, metal roofing is considered a “lightweight” material, 50% lighter than asphalt.
Not necessarily. It really depends, but many installers will install right over an asphalt roof, while others prefer to strip down to sheathing to insure a good substrate.
There are all sorts of metal roofs in many styles and colors to meet your needs.
