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Signs Of Roof Damage

5 Common Signs of Roof Damage To Look Out For

A damaged roof is a real pain to San Diego homeowners. When it happens, the solution might lie in replacing the entire roof, which is quite a costly endeavor.

As unfortunate and unwanted as it might be, your roof will develop leaks and eventually get damaged at some point. What you should concern yourself with is identifying a damaged roof before it starts leaking or things get out of hand and it probably damages things in your home.

  1. Dented gutters and downspouts 

One of the first signs to appear when you have a damaged roof is downspouts and dents in your gutters. If your gutters have dents, your roof will most likely be damaged.

When it comes to downspouts, the dents should be above 5 feet for you to be sure that it is a sign of roof damage and not some other activity or accident.

Beyond dents and downspouts, it is important to check for ground-level collateral damage as a supporting sign of roof damage.

For instance, are there holes in your window screens? Do you see strikes or dents on your garage door? Have you found dents on your mailbox or other metals around your home? You also need to check for dings on any painted wood or shutters as well as dings or splatter marks on your AC unit, grill, or electric meter.

While these collateral damages can be a pointer toward roof damage, it isn’t always the case all the time, so you might need to do some more observation. Nevertheless, there’s a good chance of roof damage if these check out.

  1. Loose granules/granules in your gutter

In the case of a very old roof, loose granules might be a sign that your roof needs to be replaced.

However, regardless of the age of your roof, finding granules in your gutter can be a sign that your roof needs a replacement.

Granules are added to asphalt shingles to offer UV protection and fire resistance, as well as to give the shingles their color. They are also important to your roof’s lifespan.

So, once you identify granules in your gutters, it is a cause for concern. In the case where hail exposure might have resulted in the loss of your granules, it is a pointer to the fact that your asphalt shingles have had their integrity compromised.

Check downspouts and the ground area for granules as well. Whatever you find, it is important to speak with a roofing contractor who will observe your roof to be sure whether it is damaged or simply a result of age.

  1. Creased or missing shingles

Going on to your roof, your shingles could have suffered some damage caused by the wind, and they are visible in signs such as lifted shingles, creased, or missing shingles.

Missing shingles are the most obvious ones to find, but creased or lifted shingles can only be seen when you climb on your roof.

Sometimes, damage to your shingles might result from improper roof installation and not roof damage. Sadly, if your shingles are out of place due to improper installation and not natural damage, then your insurance cannot cover it.

  1. Dented roof flashing, vents, and shingles

At this point, you need to know what signs qualify as signs of roof damage because not all signs qualify as roof damage.

A dent on your roof and shingle needs to be as large as 1 inch in diameter for it to qualify as damage resulting from hail.

Damage that large is capable of compromising your roof’s integrity, which is a cause for concern. A smaller dent might not be of enough consequence to damage your roof.

Apart from your shingles, consider other areas and check for collateral damage, especially in areas like your roof flashing and vents, and other metals on your roof that can show signs of damage.

Any damage that was strong enough to cause damage to the vents and other metals of your roof will also damage other areas of your roof.

  1. Check for tree limbs on your roof

If a heavy tree limb hits your roof, then you can be sure that your roof has undergone some damage. So, if you find the limb of a tree sitting on your roof and it is heavy, then it might damage your shingles, decking, and other components of your roof.

Some gigantic tree limbs might not stop at damaging the roof but fall in and go all the way to the attic.

To avoid such a situation, always ensure that you don’t have trees tall enough or limbs heavy enough to damage your roof when there’s a storm or heavy winds.

commercial flat roof with PVC roofing in San Diego, CA

PVC Roofing For Commercial Buildings

Advantages of PVC Roofing Systems for Commercial Buildings In San Diego, CA

There are several roofing system options for San Diego business owners who are looking to reroof their commercial facility or industrial building. Of all the available options, PVC roofing systems are amongst the most sought-after and effective roofing options in the San Diego area.

PVC roofs, which stand for Polyvinyl chloride or vinyl for short were first sighted in Europe where they made their appearance in the 1960s. In the earlier times, some PVC membranes had poor quality. It was common to find membrane failures caused by the migration of plasticizers responsible for the flexibility of the PVC, as well as unenforced membranes.

To tackle these problems, product improvement practices and strategies began. Some of such corrective actions include the inclusion of a reinforcement scrim between the layers of membrane film to deliver stability and resistance to puncture and tear. The chemistry of PVC production was also broadened, which is why the more modern version is well able to control a large percentage of the commercial roofing market.

PVC is amongst the world’s most widely used polymers, and it is used across a wide range of daily and industrial applications.

The two primary components used in the making of PVC are natural oil/gas and salt. Chlorine is gotten from rock salt, and ethylene is gotten upon conversion of fuel. They are both used to create a white compound called vinyl chloride monomer, which is further processed to get the flexible or rigid PVC.

Let us look at some amazing features of PVC roofing systems you should know.

1. Long lifespan 

PVC roofing systems are renowned for their longevity. It is normal to find PVC roof installations lasting for 25 years or longer and still standing strong. Unlike several roofing systems that cure as time goes on, PVC membranes remain weldable for the purpose of alterations and repairs throughout their lifetime.

The plastic nature of PVC makes it flexible and accommodating to weather and temperature changes, as well as the thermal contraction and expansion that commercial roofing systems undergo due to these changes.

2. Membrane Flexibility 

PVC roofing systems are always flexible regardless of weather conditions, which is why they can be installed by a commercial roofing contractor in San Diego at any time of the year. Their flexibility also makes it possible for them to be fabricated in the factory and then taken to the installation site. The ability to pre-fabricate in the factor reduces the amount of job done on-site and also ensures a better, more trustworthy installation that’ll last long term since the major welding process is carried out in the factory under the best conditions.

If you have dealt with other single-ply roofing systems, you’ll find that they become stiff when the weather is cold, which makes it difficult to handle and work with them at that time. That is not the case with PVC membranes.

Duro-last is a leading manufacturer of PVC in the U.S and a patent holder and inventor of custom pre-fabricated PVC roof systems.

Duro-Last PVC systems undergo 80% membrane welding in the factory and are inspected before being brought to your building to be installed on your rooftop.

3. Hot-Air Welded Seams 

Hot-air welding is a process of seaming different membrane components such as sheets and flashing to create a membrane that is more secure and longer-lasting. This process is better than the adhesive system used for other roofing materials because the heat used in the process melts all overlapping membranes and places them on the same level where they blend into a uniform sheet.

With this process, you find that the welded joint is highly resistant to tear, even more than the entire membrane.

4. Durability 

PVC roofing systems are able to withstand a lot of weather fluctuations and conditions. They can also resist substances and other chemicals that would ordinarily negatively affect other roofing products.

PVC roofing system is great for industrial roofs and San Diego restaurants where there is an oily or greasy rooftop exhaust. It also has a high resistance to ponding water and moisture, so it doesn’t deteriorate or rot under such conditions.

With such resistance, you can rest assured of lower maintenance expenditure, and long stress-free usage.

5. Energy Efficiency 

White PVC membranes save a great deal of energy cost because they have highly reflective membranes and they reflect solar heat rather than conducting it into the building.

The high reflective nature of PVC roofing systems ensures that the membrane temperature remains notably lower on very hot days.

When it is hot and sunny in San Diego, you get a lower ambient air temperature when dealing with a white, reflective roof compared to the air temperature you get from a black rubber or gravel-surfaced roof. Rooftop HVAC systems always perform better and more efficiently with a cooler rooftop area.

The coolness delivered by the energy-efficient PVC roofing system reduces stress on the roof insulation, helps the HVAC systems run less, which saves you energy bills, and extends the lifespan of your roofing system,

6. High Flame/Fire resistance levels 

You can achieve higher fire ratings with PVC roofing systems because they have a lower carbon content compared to other roofing products. In the case of a building fire, they are also less likely to emit toxic gases.

When ignited and taken through flame tests, PVC membranes self-extinguish rather than burn continuously, which you find to be the case with many other roofing systems that will not only burn but support the flame spread and increase damage.

7. Recyclable 

PVC is a leading recyclable roofing system in the industry, which makes it a great fit for the ton of green design programs we have globally. You will find programs and processes that use old PVC and other recyclable roofing systems to create flooring and other similar construction products.

8. Easy Installation Process

Depending on the condition of your roof and the building codes in your locality, you can install PVC roofing membranes without tearing off the existing roofing system. That way, you are avoiding the disruptions and expenses that come with a total removal and replacement.

Commercial Roofing Membrane Options

Flat or Low-slope roofs? 5 Common Roofing Membrane Types That Are Great Options

A leaking commercial roof, a roof that experiences ponding water, or a roof that has poor energy efficiency can be problematic, especially in a commercial building. They constitute a hazard to workers, support mold and bug infestation, and also make you spend more money on energy.

To avoid such a situation, you find many building owners across the U.S, especially those in the mid-Atlantic region, installing membrane roofing systems such as PVC, TPO, BUR, MB, and EPDM.

Although there are more membrane types available, we will discuss these five because we consider them to be the best, and we also carry out roof installations using these membranes.

Let’s begin by explaining what the membranes are and breaking down the acronyms.

Definition of a Membrane Roof

A membrane roof is a waterproof material that makes your roofing system waterproof resistant. It can be flexible or semi-flexible, and it can also be made from single or multiple materials joined together.

Membrane materials are primarily designed for industrial and commercial buildings that have low or flat-slope roofs, although they can also be used on residential buildings.

Although low and flat-slope roofs do have a little pitch that supports water drainage, it doesn’t do as much as they should. Unlike roofs with steeper pitches that support the easy flow of melting snow and rainwater, flat slopes don’t have such an easy flow. Hence, it is important for owners of buildings with flat- or low-slope roofs to choose the best membranes for water protection.

5 Different Types of Commercial Roofing Membranes

Just as we listed earlier, the 5 types of roofing membranes we recommend and will be discussing here include:

  • Built-up Roofing [BUR]
  • Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer [EPDM]
  • Modified Bitumen [MB]
  • Polyvinyl Chloride [PVC]
  • Thermoplastic Polyolefin [TPO]

Let’s explore the features of each membrane, as well as their strong points and what makes one better than the other. It is important to mention that the preference of one membrane over the other will largely depend on the nature of your roof and your usage needs.

1. Built-up Roofing [BUR] Membrane

The BUR membrane has been around for a long time and is still being used today.

Fabric layers or plies are built-up in an overlapping format on the roof and then infused with bitumen. The fabric layers are used alternatively with asphalt-based materials such as bitumen/tar and then coated with aggregate.

Several newer versions of BUR roofs have more materials added to improve their strength and they are sometimes referred to as modified bitumen membranes.

Here are some advantages of BUR membrane:

  • Long years of trust
  • High fire resistance
  • Great durability
  • Lifespan of 25 years and above with the right maintenance
  • Waterproof

2. Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer [EPDM]

An EPDM membrane is another common membrane type. It is a type of single-ply membrane roofing that resembles an inner tube on a roof that is stretched out, hence the nickname rubber roof membrane.

EPDM is applicable to ballasted, fully-adhered, or loose-laid roofing systems.

When being used for fully-adhered systems, the EPDM membrane is first coated in adhesive before it is rolled into place and then smoothed into place. For loose-laid and ballasted roofing systems, the EPDM membrane is loose-laid upon the roof.

Here are some advantages of the EPDM membrane:

  • Lifespan of 30 years or longer with adequate maintenance
  • Highly durable
  • Waterproof
  • Resistant to fatigue, wear and impact

3. Modified Bitumen [MB]

Modified Bitumen or Mod Bit is similar to BUR because it is constructed in layers. However, MB roofing membranes are sometimes called rubber roofing because they have a rubberlike appearance and properties because petroleum-based substances are placed in between the plies to hold them together.

Here are some advantages of MB roofing membrane

  • Easy installation without heat
  • Withstands foot traffic
  • Extremely durable
  • Energy saving due to reflective material

4. Polyvinyl Chloride [PVC]

PVC roofing membrane is classified as a thermoplastic material because it reacts based on temperature. That is, it becomes rigid when cold and softens when heated.

PVC membranes are often placed on the roof in overlapping sheets and then the seams are welded with hot air to ensure a firm and watertight seal. However, the nature of your commercial building’s roofing system will determine whether it is enforced this way or some other way.

PCV roofing membranes are highly resistant to grease, chemicals, and fire, making them great for restaurants and facilities that engage in food production.

Advantages of PVC roofing membranes include:

  • Energy efficiency
  • Lifespan of 25 years or longer with adequate maintenance
  • UV and Heat resistant
  • Recyclable

5. Thermoplastic Polyolefin [TPO]

TPO is also a thermoplastic material like PVC, so you will often find both membranes grouped together. TPO is relatively new in the market and is great for commercial buildings.

If you are dealing with a mechanically-fastened roofing system, TPO is adhered to the roof using fasteners and plates. For a fully-adhered system, the TPO is adhered to using an adhesive.

Advantages of TPO membranes:

  • Energy efficiency
  • Available in multiple colors
  • Durable against weather and temperature changes
  • Lifespan of 30 years and above with proper maintenance.
  • Cost Efficiency

Which Roof Membrane is best for your building?

There are so many factors involved in deciding what roof membrane is best for your San Diego commercial building. You’ll need to consider the pitch of your roof, the existing roofing system, and material, the condition of your roof, as well as the nature of the job being done in the building.

To handle all possible considerations and decide on the best roof membrane, you are advised to contact an experienced roofing company near you to offer professional insight.

With over 60 years of handling commercial roofing installations, repairs, and consultations, we have what it takes to handle your commercial roofing jobs. We know the best membranes and processes to use on your roof depending on the nature of your building. We will handle all considerations and concerns, and ensure that you get only the best material and installation for your roof.

Reach out to us today to get a roofing estimate from our team of experts who are waiting to help you.

 

House in San Diego With Standing Seam Metal Roof

The Benefits of Metal Roofing

7 Reasons Why You Should Think About Installing A Metal Roof On Your Home

Fixing a new roof for your home feels like the summit of any home design. It all comes to the type of roofing you install for your home. Homeowners generally rely on a range of factors to determine the best fit that culminates their desire. Some of these factors include; budget, style, energy efficiency, and design expectations. Additionally, the type of roofing you install not only determines comfort and satisfaction, but also durability and longevity. This is why many homeowners around the world are tapping into the plethora of benefits that metal roofing has to offer.

There are many benefits of metal roofing that are worthy of note, but the longevity of this roofing option stands out. With metal roofing, homeowners do not have to worry about changing their roof for a long time, as long as they keep it properly maintained.

Why choose metal roofing?

As a homeowner who seeks the best material for home roofing, there are a great number of materials you can select from. You must select one that offers you the most benefits that cover your home needs. Here are some amazing benefits of metal roofing that will help you make your decision.

1. Suitable for any location

Varying weather demands special roofing materials that will withstand the test of time. Roofs usually bear the grunt of weather conditions like hail, wind, snow, sleet, debris, etc. This is why it is often advised that you consider your location and weather type when selecting a roofing material. Despite their lightweight nature, metal roofs are known to be extremely durable. Compared to other roof materials, metal roofs can withstand the worst of weather damage and heavy wind of up to 100mph.

Additionally, metal roofs are durable against heavy objects and debris, and as such provide protection against tree branches or any heavy object that may be picked up during a heavy storm. Metal roofs offer more resistance to objects that would otherwise have punctured other roof materials or created a significant dent.

2. Metal roofs can last a lifetime

With other roofing materials, you run the risk of repair and complete changes from time to time. This is not the case with metal roofs. With periodic maintenance and care, metal roofs can last a lifetime. They usually come with a 50-year warranty and could last significantly more than that with proper care and maintenance. Luckily, metal roofs do not require exorbitant maintenance costs. When compared with other roof types, metal roofs are easier and cheaper to maintain with about 7 times their lifespan.

3. Metal roofs are eco friendly

As the world becomes more aware of the need for eco-friendliness, homeowners have sought an eco-friendlier option when it comes to roofing. While other roofs could negatively impact the environment, metal roofs do not contribute to the deterioration of the ecosystem in any way. They are made of fully recyclable materials and after replacement, these roofs can be recycled for new use. As a homeowner, you can rest easy knowing that your roofs will not contribute to the accumulation of landfill waste.

4. Creative roofing options

Who does not want creative designs when it comes to home designs? With metal roofs, you can fully customize your home and roof design to suit your style and taste. Metal roofing can also be designed in such a way that it mimics the pattern or design of other popular roofing materials. This way, you can have the design of most roofing materials on the market with the durability of your metal roof. You can also select from a wide range of styles and colors to suit the rest of the home design. With metal roofs, you also have the option to install skylights and other home improvement options.

5. Ease of installation

Metal roofs provide little to no hassle when it comes to installation. This is mainly due to its lightweight nature and durability. And although metal roofs can be installed any time of year, they require specific temperatures to guarantee seamless installation. Metal roofs also do not require extra reinforcement on the roof deck and so it makes the overall installation process seamless and quicker. You also do not have to worry about removing the roof in the future.

6. Metal roofs are energy efficient

With metal roofs, you do not need to install extra cooling and heating systems as your metal roof will keep the temperature in your home steady and consistent. This is possible because metal roofs are designed and installed in such a way that it keeps unwanted elements away from your home. This helps your home reduce the loss of heat during colder days thereby maximizing energy in your home. This saves you money in the long run in the form of utility bills and heating systems.

7. Metal roofs help in shedding snow

For homeowners in snowy areas, it may be particularly difficult getting snow off their roof after a blizzard. This accumulated snow will become additional weight and put the integrity of your roof to the test. This is where metal roofs become particularly useful. With a metal roof, homeowners do not need to climb up a ladder to shed off the excess snow from the roof, the roof prevents the accumulation of snow after heavy snowfall. Metal roofs prevent snow from accumulating by creating a smooth surface for the snow to simply slide off immediately after the temperature rises above the freezing temperature of the snow.

roofer on top of roof replacing metal sheets

When’s the right time to Replace Your Metal Roof?

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Your metal roofs have a lifespan of 50 years and above, which is a really long time. However, a time comes when your metal roof might need replacement. But how would you know when the time is right? Many times, you can’t tell just by looking, and you might also be unable to tell its age by sight.

Thankfully, there are some signs or flags to look out for when considering replacing your roof. If you notice one or more of these signs, then it is about time to make the change.

1. Sagging and Dips on the roof

When your metal roof is constantly exposed to heat, Over time, it can negatively affect your metal panels and make them sag. More exposure to the elements will continue to wear out your roof and make it more prone to pooling when it rains. This pooling will lead to corrosion and rust, which can bring about the end of your roof’s life.

So, once you notice that your roof is collecting water on one or more spots, reach out to a professional to observe it.

2. Discoloration

Your metal roof is prone to discoloration as it ages. You’ll also begin to see large rust particles, which are a sign of deteriorating protective coating on your metal roof. In no time, you’ll begin to see cracks, water damage, and leaks.

It’s in your best interest to call a professional once you notice discoloration and rust on your roof. Both signs are most likely indicators that you need to replace your metal roof. Although you can get away with reapplying protective painting if you notice rust on your roof, it will only last for a short while as it is a temporary fix. Over time, the metal will leak and crack.

3. Leaks

A leak is a sign that your metal roof needs immediate attention, whether the leak is large or small. Call an experienced roofer to observe it and take the right action. If you don’t handle such a leak quickly, your roof would undergo water damage and its structural support will begin to rot. While you can repair a leak and still use the roof for a few more years, the age of your metal roof will determine whether or not you should change it immediately.

4. Age

Metal roofs are loved for their extensive lifespans. However, whether or not it has been nearly 50 years since the roof was installed, you consider the age of your metal roof after a while. It is also important to note that the particular type of metal used in producing your roofing system will determine the amount of time it lasts.

So, how long does a Metal Roof really Last?

It is a rule of thumb that your metal roof will last between 40 to 70 years once you install it, provided it doesn’t suffer any great damage while it is covering your home during that period.

As we said before, the type of metal roofing might affect the lifespan, so pay attention to the guide below to help you know what to expect from your metal roofing.

  • Aluminum roofing 

Aluminum roofing has an average lifespan of about 50 years before it would need replacement. You have their corrosion resistance to thank for the long lifespan. Even though they are lighter than steel roofs, they last longer.

  • Steel roofing

Steel roofing gives you an average of 40 years when installed on your home. Although this lifespan is shorter than other metal types, it still lasts longer than asphalt shingles and other non-metal roofing materials that last for about 20 years before needing to be replaced.

  • Copper and zinc roofing

We group copper and zinc because they are known to have the highest lifespans amongst metal roofing systems, as they both have a maximum lifespan of 100 years.

However, while copper has an average minimum lifespan of 50 years, zinc has an average minimum lifespan of 60 years.

A Professional Installation Contributes to lifespan

Amongst other factors, getting a professional roofing installation can contribute to the lifespan of your roof. With professional roofing services, quality roofing materials, and a trusted warranty, you can invest in a metal roof and know that you will get above your money’s worth.

When you work with professional roofers, you can leverage the tips they have gained from roof installations over time. They will know what measures to take to ensure that your metal roof remains in the best condition for the longest time.

Call us today for your professional roof installation. We will assess your existing roof and get you started on your plan to get a new metal roofing system.