Thoughts and ideas from one of the best area home inspectors in the Bloomington Normal area.
Roof
Commercial Roofing Materials and Techniques
As far as roofing options for a flat base are concerned, there are many. In the end, it really all comes down to a matter of personal choice pertaining to what type of material you decide on. Though, there are some types which are better suited for different seasons, budgets, and climates that may affect your end decision. In this article we will outline the three most common types of flat roofing.Built-Up RoofThe BUR roof is the traditional hot tar style that was once quite popular. This material is by far the cheapest solution available and is applied by layering 3 or more stacks of waterproof material with hot tar sandwiched between them, before ballasting the top layer with an additional layer of gravel-type pebbles.While this method can be very attractive as well as cheap, it is also harder to maintain. Leaks prove rather difficult to location, and often the joists must be straightened in order to hold the bulk weight of the roof. The work must be completed by a professional and is extremely messy. Sometimes gravel will clog the gutters of the surrounding gutters after a heavy storm, thus adding to the maintenance factors.Ethylene Propylene Diene MonomerEPDM roofs are made from rubber materials. These roofs are very durable and look quite a bit like the rubber used in inner tubes. There are 3 separate methods used to install; using fasteners, or having them ballasted or glued down.Maintenance is rather low. Leaks are fairly easy to patch and the material is known for being light weight, but very durable. The black type soaks up a large amount of heat, and is thus, not recommended for hotter climates.Modified BitumenThe type involves the attachment of a single ply one, integrated with a mineral-based shield, to the surface of the roof itself. Typically, two types of materials are used: torch-adhesion type and the peel and stick method which is much more simplistic.It is quite possible to perform the peel and stick variety as a DIY task. In addition, the type of material used can greatly reduce heat and energy bills. Even better, it is moderately priced.When considering your next flat roofing installation, it is very important that you consult a professional prior to installation. In this way, you can ensure that the job is done in the correct manner, thus adding to the security and durability of the roof for years to come.
Built-Up RoofThe BUR roof is the conventional hot tar name that was erstwhile quite common. This real is by far the cheapest result ready and is practical by layering 3 or solon stacks of waterproof real with hot tar sandwiched between them, before ballasting the top sheet with an further stratum of gravel-type pebbles.Time this method can be rattling enchanting as well as tacky, it is also harder to enter.
Leaks affirm kinda difficult to emplacement, and ofttimes the joists must be straightened in organisation to pertain the magnitude coefficient of the roof. The activity must be realised by a athlete and is extremely messy. Sometimes rough faculty choke the gutters of the surrounding gutters after a strong rain, thus adding to the upkeep factors.Gas Propylene Diene MonomerEPDM roofs are made from safe materials. These roofs are very durable and see quite a bit suchlike the rubberized utilised in internal tubes. There are 3 change methods utilised to position; using fasteners, or having them ballasted or affixed doc.Mend is rather low. Leaks are fair undemanding to join and the substance is celebrated for beingness combust coefficient, but really imperishable.
The evil identify soaks up a conspicuous amount of alter, and is thus, not advisable for hotter climates.Altered BitumenThe typewrite involves the combining of a undivided ply one, interracial with a mineral-based armor, to the opencast of the roof itself. Typically, two types of materials are used: torch-adhesion typewrite and the strip and set method which is such solon simplistic.It is quite allegeable to execute the pare and force show as a DIY task. In addition, the typewrite of relevant victimised can greatly trim turn and life bills. Flat gambler, it is passably priced.When considering your incoming scene roofing installing, it is rattling eminent that you refer a professed prior to artifact. In this way, you can ensure that the job is through in the accurate variety, thusly adding to the department and strength of the roof for eld to proceed.
Utilizing Metal Roofing Panels For Your Home Or Building
Utilizing Metal Roofing Panels For Your Home Or Building
By Anthony Lee?
If you are deciding on what alternative material to use as roofing panels, metal can be a wise option. Metal is very versatile compared to other types of roofing solutions as it is very durable, fire retardant, and lightweight. It is proven to resist dilapidation.
These are the basic characteristics of metal roofing panels. They can simply be used for many purposes and can be easily installed even without the help of a professional. Here are some of them and their distinct characteristics:
1. Steel is one of the most popular choices in roofing. However, this material is cursed with a cruel downside. They are very prone to corrosion. As time passes by on your metal roofing panel, though, there can be things to do to remedy this. Manufacturers coat them with zinc and seal them. This kind of application will lessen the probability of rusting and corroding.
Steel comes in different colors and will always fit to any specifications that you need to your home or building. As of today, they can withstand even the worst weather conditions, even other environmental factors are still hard to putting down this sturdy roofing panel.
Steel is known to be heavy and panels are not an exception, it can cause some problems such as imbalance on some homes but it is the most durable of all metal roofing panels.
2. Stainless steel is also a good metal. The first thing you have to consider using them is its cost, stainless steel is very expensive but it makes up for its almost no maintenance, they will never rust, they have the same characteristics of steel but they get by with their no maintenance feature.
3. Copper is another roofing panel that is very light. They are widely used in homes. As they have little weight, they also look great due to its properties. This is the best choice for easy transportation; you can easily transport them from the warehouse to your home. In addition, they have been treated to prevent corrosion for a long time and will never rust.
4. Another roofing panel is aluminum. They are also lightweight and are used in residential areas. It can save you money due to its less shipping weight hence it can be easily transported. Aluminum does not rust. They are the choice for most people who have the budget.
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For tips on installing metal roofing, visit http://www.metalroofing101.com Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Anthony_Lee |
Copper Roof Shingles
Copper Roof Shingles
By Steven Briesemeister
The world is full of copper lovers, and lovers of the copper roof are by no means an exception. There are essentially two different types of copper roof you can buy, there is the solid copper roof that consists solely of sheet copper on your roof. It is very resilient to weathering and will protect your house for decades but it is incredibly costly, as you can imagine. On the other hand, copper roof shingles are made by attached sheets of copper around standard asphalt shingles. All in all, the cost is likely to work out less than a slate roof but once the copper roof shingles have aged and been weathered they will take on the magnificent green look that only copper can create.
One of the advantages that copper roof shingles offer over other forms of long lasting roofs, especially the solid copper roof, is that the shingles are actually surprisingly light and most roofs and structures can usually cope with the load admirably. As long as you are prepared to pay approximately $4 per square foot (compared to $1 for standard asphalt but up to $15 for solid copper) there is unlikely to be any good reason why you can not use copper roof shingles on your roof.
This is something of a confusing issue. Asphalt roof shingles will normally only last 20 years, but covered in copper sheeting the life of the asphalt shingles can easily be extended to between 30 and 40 years. However, the copper sheet itself will last an average of about 150 years. Obviously the copper roof shingles themselves will only last as long as the asphalt roof shingles that are found underneath the copper.
Copper roof shingles are by no means a cheap alternative to other styles of roofing but if you like the look of copper and you want a longer life than asphalt shingles can offer then copper roof shingles are an excellent option. The copper sheet doesn’t an excellent job of protecting the asphalt shingles underneath effectively giving them an extended life of around 30 to 40 years. The copper sheeting also protects the shingles from most general wear and tear meaning that with good, regular maintenance you won’t need to have repairs done too often. On a yearly basis copper roof shingles do work out cheap but not overall and not for the initial installation.
Standard asphalt roof shingles usually cost around $1 per square foot, whereas solid copper roofing will set you back around $15 per square foot. Copper roof shingles are available at approximately $4 to $5 per square foot so they are 4 times more expensive than asphalt but considerably cheaper than a full solid copper roof. However, you are undoubtedly paying for the attractive looks of a copper roof but for less money than covering the entire roof in an expensive metal.
Roofer911.com takes great pride in maintaining customer satisfaction for all types of new roof installation and roof repair work for residential and commercial roofing accounts. Need home service articles? Find Local contractors in your area today.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Steven_Briesemeister
How To Replace A Damaged Asphalt Roof Shingle
How To Replace A Damaged Asphalt Roof Shingle
By Jerry Holt?
Scenario:
My roof has asphalt shingles that are damaged. Some of them are broken and curled. What’s the easiest way to replace damaged asphalt roof shingles?
Solution:
The next time you take a look at you house you should take time to see if there are any torn, broken or buckled asphalt shingles on your roof. It may well be time to replace some shingles. Replacing asphalt shingles is a job most do it yourself individuals can do, but if you’re unsure or if you’re not comfortable with heights you might want to consider hiring a roofing contractor.
Before you get started make sure the weather is going to be warm for a couple of days with no rain in the forecast.
You’re going to need:
Hammer
Pry Bar
Ladder
Caulk Gun
Roofing Tar
Roofing Nails (1 1/4″)
Asphalt Shingles
First you’re going to have to get rid of the old asphalt shingles before you can replace the shingles. You’ll need a flat pry bar to lift up the shingle. Start by loosening the shingle tab above the damaged shingle. Next place it under the damaged shingle tab to raise it and then pry the nails out. If you can’t remove it completely use a claw hammer to finish the job. Continue with this process until all of the damaged shingles that need replaced are removed.
Now it’s time to replace the asphalt shingle. Place the new shingle exactly how it was removed. Nail it in place with 1 1/4″ roofing nails. You’re going to have to reseal the new shingle by using asphalt roofing tar to coat the nail heads. Don’t forget to cement each tab with about a 1 inch diameter dab of the tar. Continue on with the same procedure for the other damaged asphalt shingles that need replaced.
Don’t forget safety:
Don’t be leaning over the edge of the roof. Use your ladder for replacing old shingles on the edge of the roof.
Make sure your ladder is set up on a flat surface and that it won’t move or slide.
If your roof has a steep pitch you are going to need roof jacks that are available at your local rental store. These are usually made of metal and are basically brackets that are nailed into the rafters or the sheathing. Then you place boards across the brackets to obtain a work platform. You may need to set up several roof jacks depending on how many damaged shingles you plan on replacing.
Don’t try to replace damaged shingles in the rain or if your roof is wet as it can get pretty slippery up there.
Good luck with your project and remember – safety first!
Jerry Holt is a freelance writer for the do it yourself home improvement website DIY Today where you can find tips and advice on roofing.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jerry_Holt
The Pros And Cons Of Asphalt Roof Shingles
The Pros And Cons Of Asphalt Roof Shingles
By Aazdak Alisimo?
Roofing is one of those subjects that most people don’t really think about until the buy or sell a home or the water is pouring down in the house. Well, getting a new roof can be an expensive proposition, so taking the time to learn a little about your roof can make a world of difference. In this article, we take a quick look at asphalt shingles.
Asphalt shingles are about the least expensive roofing material you can use. They are made a couple of different ways, but there are always some common denominators. The first is the membrane. It is a fiber like sheet that looks like thin cardboard. It is made from everything from wood chips to recycled newspapers.
The membrane is run through multiple presses that apply layers of oil based adhesive. This is essentially asphalt. The multiple layers create a thickness that provides both a water barrier and barrier against nominal size debris that may land on the roof.
The final ingredient for the average asphalt roofing shingle is small gravel heaps. While the shingle is still hot, the gravel is applied on the side to be exposed to the sun. The purpose of the gravel is two fold. First, it annoys the heck out of roofers. Just joking. The purpose is to create a barrier for the sunlight striking the shingles.
Asphalt roofing shingles work well when used correctly. Given their rather simple construction, they perform best when used on a steeply sloped roof. Since they are attached via an epoxy solution on the upper backs, this creates a barrier against water wicking back up under the shingles during rain storms.
A roof protection system is only as good as its weakest point. If you have an asphalt shingle roof, you need to inspect it at least once a year. The shingles are inexpensive, but they tend to get damaged and/or knocked around. If this occurs, you need to repair them before wet conditions occur or your risk water compromising the shingles around the damaged area.
At the end of the day, asphalt roofing shingles have their place in roof construction, but they are not the greatest of choices. If you use them, maintenance is a must.
Aazdak Alisimo is a roofing contractor who provides San Bernardino roofing services as well as repairs and re-roofs throughout Southern California. To get a free roofing consultation, visit him at 866FixMyRoof.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Aazdak_Alisimo
Hints for Basic Roof Repairs
Hints for Basic Roof Repairs
By Kate Neville?
One household project that can seem frightening and expensive is the idea of doing your own roof repairs. Whether you have major damage to your roof, or just need new gutters and shingles, repairing your own roof is a daunting task, but is something you can actually do on your own. You’ll just need to know how. Of course, for major repairs, you may need to call in a contractor to help. There are also some things you can do to improve the longevity of your roof.
For instance, inspecting your roof a few times each year will let you see problems before they get bigger. If you have a few loose shingles, or gutters that are on their way to needing replacement, you can catch them early. Preventative maintenance can keep you from paying a lot for bigger roof repairs later. Be sure to make your roof inspections in the spring and early summer, or in the fall. During this period, it’s not too hot on your roof, but it’s also not icy.
Never climb on your roof under the direct heat of the summer sun. Warm shingles will loose their coatings as you walk on them, shortening their useful life. Check your flashing for problems, and fasten down loose or warped pieces. Use nails made of the same metal as the flashing when possible, as this prevents corrosion. Those with chimneys should check out the area where the chimney flashing meets their roof. Gaps caused by shrinkage of the cement and tar should be repaired with the same type of sealant. This keeps your roof from developing a leak near the chimney.
If you see a bulge in your flashing, a simple roof repair is to place a piece of wood on that area. Hammer the wood to flatten the flashing, rather than hammering the flashing and shingle directly. If this doesn’t work, there may be water damage in this location, causing the wood to swell. These cases require replacement of the damaged part of the roof.
If you see problems with your gutters, don’t be tempted to fix them while you’re on the roof. This is a common way to fall off the roof’s edge! Instead, note the locations that are a problem, get a ladder, and deal with them from the ground. Apply a protective coating to your roof to reduce the heat from the sun and improve its lifespan. There are a number of different types of roof coatings, but one of the most common is the albedo coating. Used in areas with a lot of hot, sunny weather, they bring surface temperatures down by as much as eighty percent. This extends the life of your roof by blocking UV rays, and keeps your home cooler. If you have a metal roof, other coatings can be used to prevent corrosion, keeping your roof in good shape longer.
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Looking for roofing supplies? Visit Roofing Supplies Online Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kate_Neville |
Roof Repair And Replacement – What Every Bid Should Include
Roof Repair And Replacement – What Every Bid Should Include
By Rachel Hauser
When replacing your roof you don’t want to hire a company that will not stand behind their work or even worse yet, disappear once the job is done. If the roofing company can’t answer your questions or provide you information needed to fairly evaluate them, then they are probably the wrong roofing company for you. The following is a list of questions you need the roofer to answer when giving you a bid. Make sure that the roofer gives you a written bid and all your concerns are addressed.
1. Determine if your roof only needs repaired or the entire roof should be replaced. You might receive different opinions from different roofers.
2. Ask the roofer how they will protect your windows, siding, shrubs, gutters, attic, lawn, etc. from damage. Find out how often they will remove the debris if they are taking off the old roof. Are they prepared for inclement weather? Will they put up temporary weather protection when they leave for the day?
3. If you are putting on a new roof, ask if removal of the old roof is necessary? Once again you may receive differing opinions, challenge the roofer to explain the difference of opinion.
4. Does the roofer need to replace only part of the existing sheathing or is all new sheathing required. If so, inquire about the type and thickness. You need to ask about the felt underlayment; what type and weight?
5. Make sure the roofer includes new flashing for the chimney, vent collar and valleys. What type will be used, will it be copper or aluminum and what gauge?
6. What shingles will be used (specific brand, grade, design, color)? Will the shingles be nailed or stapled?
7. Does the roofer guarantee his work? The guarantee should include the workmanship by the roofer and materials by the manufacturer. Since faulty application can invalidate the materials guarantee, sign a bid only if it has a workmanship guarantee.
8. Does the roofer have a certificate of insurance? Ask to see it. The contractor should have Workmen’s Compensation as well as liability.
9. Does the price include the permit and taxes? Does non-contracted work require your inspection and written approval? What is the payment schedule?
10. Request start and completion dates (including penalties); be sure this is made part of the contract.
11. Ask for references: Get the names, addresses, and phone numbers of four roofing jobs. They should be at least two or three years old (to see how the job held up). Call the references and ask them if they were satisfied with the work and if they had any problems. Ask them if they would hire this company again. Drive by and look at the jobs, do they look good, is the flashing neatly applied?
Ultimately when the bids are in you should choose a contractor on the basis of price, quality of work, reputation, and work completed on schedule and your general impressions of the company and its people.
Find more home improvement advice, Solutions for Your Home, Yard and Garden
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rachel_Hauser
Don’t Let Your Roof Repairs Go Sky High!
Before you go to the expense of calling in a roofing contractor, see if you can analyze and repair your roof problem yourself. The best possible time to repair your roof problem – is as soon as you realize that you have one and if the weather is calm enough to climb up onto the roof. In fact, this could be further qualified by saying that the best and most economical way to a trouble-free roof, is to inspect the roof regularly, so that you see the problem developing.
A leak from one dislodged tile is a small and inexpensive matter, but if you do not inspect your roof regularly, this will go unnoticed. By the time that you DO notice it, it may be because water is dripping into your spare room! This means that this whole area of the roof structure is soaked, the ceiling will need to be replaced and hopefully the flooring will recover.
Always check your roof after a wind storm, as most roofing is not designed to withstand fierce winds. Scrutinize the tiles for cracks, splits and torn-off corners; also check for lifting. Lifting is a common cause of roof leaks, and can be easily rectified. Be aware of multiple tiles lifting, as this could be a sign that the roofing material is too old and is warping from all the weathering.
Climb into your attic/loft and ensure that any insulation that you have in your roof is not right up against the roof itself. There has to be a gap for air to circulate; also when a roof heats up and there is insulation directly behind it, this heat is thrown back into the roofing and excessive heating like this can damage and warp the roof.
Another weakness in all roofs is the flashing. Flashing is designed to provide a watertight junction between roof materials and structure, especially if the roof projects out or changes design (as with extension roofs). If you are installing a new roof, it is worthwhile to get the flashing ‘inspected’ as it is a common failure area.
Often the simple fact that the gutters, leading into down pipes from the roof, are blocked with leaves and twigs can cause a problem. Roofs must have adequate run off, especially in the areas which may have snow. Water trapped in the gutter will mean that it will back up the roof for a few inches and have time to seep into the edges of the roofing tiles. Not all homes have adequate perimeter protection on their roofs, although this is one good feature to ask for on a new roof.
Quite often homes incur roof leaks all at the same time (often after strong gales winds and torrential rain etc). This can mean that all contractors are busy and you have ‘stop up the leak’ until you can get help.
If you do get a leak, and you have placed buckets under the dripping water, be aware that the leak may be in a completely different place than it would seem. Locating the source is difficult, as water can run along horizontal timbers and appear to be leaking from a place that is sound. Getting up into the attic and actually looking for a wet spot on the roof decking will be an accurate way to tell.
If you can find the spot an emergency patch can be made applying roofing felt and using plastic cement to hold it until you can call in a contractor. You can also attempt to repair it yourself, if it is just a shingle that is damaged. You can carefully prize up the roof shingle by removing the three or four nails that are holding it in place; next, apply a generous coating of tar beneath the tear in question, and also coat the underside of the shingle with a with a coat of tar before putting it back in place. Add a spot of tar to each nail head. Most roofing companies advise against the ‘liquid’ asphalt repair products.
Roofs can also be temporarily repaired using roof membrane and sealants. Care must be taken to clean the roof surface first to ensure that the sealant will stick and keep the leak protected from rain etc. In fact, as long as the roof is clean and dry, the wonder of the 20th. Century – duct tape – can also be stuck onto the roof!
Virginia Wherland is an experienced Minneapolis real estate agent. Virginia and her team can help you find the property you need in the Eden Prairie real estate market. Get more information at AssociatesRealty.net
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Virginia_Z_Wherland
Seamless Gutters – Are They Right For You Or A Waste Of Money?
Seamless Gutters – Are They Right For You Or A Waste Of Money?
By Terry Edwards?
Deciding on whether to purchase and install seamless gutters? You may have heard of this type of guttering system, but don’t fully understand what they are all about. There are many advantages to seamless rain gutters, which I will outline in this article.
To start, the reason why they call it seamless is because it is exactly that, seamless. This means there are no breaks within the gutter channel. Why is this so important or necessary? One of the more important reasons is because without seams you don’t have leakage issues. Traditional rain gutters are joined together in sections and will leak over time, but with this type of gutter there are no joints, therefore the likelihood of a leak diminishes.
Seamless gutters are made out of a variety of materials which can range from aluminum, steel that has been galvanized, vinyl and copper. If you are wondering if you can match the color scheme of the exterior of your house, that’s no problem. It can be made in any color, so matching it to your home’s exterior will not be a problem.
If you’re budget conscious then you should be aware that seamless gutters are more expensive than traditional gutters, so you should be prepared to spend a little more money on these gutters, although it is not that much more. It’s also important to note, that you’ll need a professional contractor to install them since the gutter is measured on site to ensure that everything fits exactly. This leads to a rise in price but it is worth it, as it will be professionally done, and will be cost effective in the end.
Before deciding if this is the right type of gutter for you, do the necessary research online and read reviews from customers who’ve had them installed. Reviews from current users can aid in you making a better decision when comparing standard gutters to seamless counterparts.
Remember that even though these gutters may have more expense in the beginning, it can save you thousands of dollars in the long run by having a better and more secure drainage system. A seamless gutter with no leaks will result in less structural damage to your roof, which you’ll eventually have to repair if your current standard gutter is not functioning effectively. This is important and should be carefully analyzed when making a decision. Most homeowners do not give this much thought, but it’s an important consideration nonetheless.
Keep these factors in mind when deciding on whether a seamless gutter is right for you. Your overall goal should be to do it right from the start, and avoid costly mistakes that can cost you thousands of dollars down the road.
You can find out more about Seamless Gutters as well as much more information on everything to do with rain gutters and downspouts at http://www.RainGutterTips.com.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Terry_Edwards
Home Seller’s Guide Roofing 101
Home Seller’s Guide Roofing 101
By Paul Escobedo
When you have been living in a home for a long time, there is bound to be wear and tear to the premises. Over the course of the years you may done many repairs, but this will not eliminate damage happening to the home structure. One of the most important areas that should be up kept from wearing is the home’s roof. As a seller, you need to have your home’s roof in top condition. This will not only potentially attract buyers but could also ensure that you get the price you want from your property sale, especially in hotter states.
How can you maintain your roof in optimal condition? Do a periodic check on the roof to find out damage and get such damages fixed immediately. Periodic checking ensures longevity and better roof maintenance rather having checks done with long gaps in between, which will ultimately cost more in terms of repair work. New Home buyers should ensure that the roof materials used in their home is of a good quality so to avoid too much maintenance repair costs.
It is also advisable to have a roof certificate ready for buyers to see, as this makes your property more sell able. The process of roof certification is different from that of what a home inspector would give you. In a roof certification process, a roof inspector will examine the condition of the roof and will look into all issues. Such as roof material condition, signs of movements, condition of drains, downspouts, roof ridges and caps, vents, and HVAC unit mounting.
If the roof happens to be in good condition, the roofing inspector will estimate the life expectancy of the roof and certify the inspection. In the case of needing more repairs, the certificate will be issued after all repairs have been finished. The roof certificate holds validity for a period of two to five years, depending on local laws.
The purpose behind getting a roof certification done is to bring out the roof’s condition to buyers and its age. It will inform the seller and the buyer on any repairs that need to be made to the roof structure. As a seller, using the information in a roof certificate you can proceed to make repairs. Having a roof certification ready when buyers come in to see the home is a great idea. This shows that you are sincere in your dealings which will give you the right sale price.
Paul is a principal of NewHomesSection.com. Search Southern California new homes, Northern California new homes and new homes today!
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Paul_Escobedo
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