Author Archives: McStay Quality Roofing

1. Age

An asphalt shingle roof will last up to 20 years, maybe 25 years if the weather is kind. Another factor that can make a roof age faster is if it was installed over the old roof. Yes, it can save money having a new roof replacement installed over an existing roof, but that also keeps the new roof from getting proper ventilation. Poor ventilation makes a roof age faster. 

2. Buckling and Curling

No, this isn’t a new hair style. When the shingles on your roof are buckling and curling, you need a new roof replacement. The slopes on a roof are getting direct UV rays all day, every day. The sun is brutal on a roof and will age the shingles fast, look what it does to your skin!  Buckled and curled shingles is an indication you need a roof replacement, the sooner the better. 

3. The Valleys

Most roofs have valleys, where two different roof angles meet. If there are missing shingles in the valleys of your roof, you need a roof replacement. The valleys are essential for snow and water to flow to the gutters, in the downspouts, and out away from your home. 

4. Shingles Missing 

Missing shingles anywhere on your roof is an indication that a roof replacement is needed.  are another sign your roof could be failing. 

5. Chimney flashing

The flashing around your chimney isn’t just décor, it serves an important job in keeping the rain from leaking in around the chimney and into your home.  If it is bent, loose, or missing, roof repair could be all you need. However, it could be an indicator that you need roof replacement. Have a professional roofing contractor inspect your roof and give you their experienced advice. 

6. Asphalt Granules in the Gutters

Check your gutters to see if they need cleaning and if you notice a lot of asphalt shingles too, then your roof is losing its usefulness and a roof replacement is needed.

7. Seeing Daylight 

Take a trip up in the attic and if you can see daylight through the decking, you need a new roof replacement. 

What is replaced when you get a new roof?

If the time has arrived that your home needs a roof replacement, this doesn’t mean you do not need to know how to replace a roof yourself. However, knowing what is involved in a roof replacement will make you an informed consumer and homeowner. The following are things you should expect to happen: 

• The tear off: You may be tempted with your roof replacement to tell the roofing contractor not to tear off the old shingles in order to save some money. Think twice about this and then review number 1 listed above. Leaving the existing shingles will cause your new roof to age faster and you’ll be doing this again before you’re ready. A proper roof replacement should include the existing shingles being removed down to the decking. 
• The decking: The roofing contractor should inspect the roof decking for any needed repairs or replacement. Make sure this is in your written quote. If they install your roof replacement over bad roof decking, it isn’t going to last long.
• The underlayment: A total roof replacement also includes the underlayment, the roofing felt, being replaced. This is the water barrier that helps make the decking water-resistant. 
• New flashing: The chimney, skylights, valleys, and other protrusions in the roof are susceptible to leaks and water damage from water runoff. A new roof replacement should include new flashing in these areas. 
• Drip edging, Ice dam: A roof replacement should include new metal drip edging all around the roof edge, and an ice dam, the layer of waterproof material that prevents melted ice from backing up under the shingles.

Do gutters have to be removed when replacing a roof?

This is something the roofing contractor will need to determine when they inspect the job and provide you an estimate.  It is possible for your roof replacement to be done and leave the  gutters installed, depending on how the gutters were installed. If your gutters are as old as the roof or your roof replacement is because of storm damage, you should have the gutters replaced at the same time the roof replacement is scheduled. Call 817-349-0016 today for your roof replacement in Fort Worth, TX.

The built-up roofing system has been used for more than 100 years and commonly called a tar & gravel roof because of the layers of tar with a fabric and the final layer is gravel. 

What is EPDM roofing?

EPDM single ply roofing material is an exceedingly durable synthetic rubber used as a roofing membrane on large structures like commercial, industrial, and institutional buildings. EPDM single ply roofing is available in different thicknesses and widths, in black or white. The durability and the price point of EPDM are two reasons it is a popular choice for these types of structures. 

Is EPDM roofing any good?

Yes, this single ply roofing material is ideal for structures with flat roofing due to the natural properties it is created from. Once EPDM is installed, it becomes resistant to any blistering, cracking, and rot, giving the owner and maintenance crew less to worry about when it comes to building upkeep. 

What is single ply TPO roofing?

TPO is a single-ply roofing membrane that consists of a synthetic and scrim layer.  The synthetics keeps the roofing membrane flexible while the scrim is a reinforcement to keep it durable and strong. Available in 10 foot, 12 foot, and 20 foot wide sheets that are delivered in a roll to the job site. Once installed, TPO has a UV reflective surface, ideal for buildings where summers are hot. 

How long does single ply roofing last?

EPDM single ply roofing material has a lifespan up to 30 years or longer when properly maintained. It is resistant to punctures and thermal shock which contribute to its long life. TPO single ply roofing can last up to 20 years before any failure is expected, which is typically the seams have weakened and begin to separate. 

Is TPO better than EPDM?

There are single ply roofing benefits to both EPDM and TPO with both single ply roofing pros and cons to account for their popularity.  

EPDM single ply roofing offers these advantages: 

• The Cost: In general, EPDM is an inexpensive single ply roofing material that is ideal for low-sloping roof surfaces. 
• Eco-Friendly: Available in black or white, both offering energy reduction in different ways.  The black absorbs the UV rays and ease the heating cost of the structure. The white reflects the UV rays, easing the cost of cooling the structure. Both are suitable for a rooftop garden and solar panels, being durable and lightweight, flexible and 100% recyclable. 
• Fire-Resistant: EPDM single ply roofing is a fire-resistant material and slows fire spreading down too. 
• Long-Lasting: As stated above, when correctly installed, EPDM single ply roofing can last up to 30 years with proper maintenance and upkeep. It is impervious to radiation and UV damage, wind resistant and holds up to 3” hail without damage.  
• Lower Energy Costs: An EPDM single ply roofing works well with polyiso insulation and with the white color, it is an excellent source for energy efficiency in warm climates.   With additional coating, the energy efficiency and reflectiveness increase, and with various thickness choices, you can choose the best for budget purpose.

EPDM single ply roofing offers these disadvantages: 

• Installation Cost: While the EPDM material itself is cost effective, when installed by  fully adhered or mechanically attached, can make EPDM installation cost higher than the TPO single ply roofing.
• Fragile: When installed on a structure in the wrong environment, it can be a fragile single ply roofing material. As a non-reinforced material, it punctures easily and shrinks as it ages. EPDM require routine professional maintenance every two years to get the full life expectancy.  
• Not Aesthetic: EPDM single ply roofing is an ugly black rubber and if visible from other structures, it can be distractive to the building’s architectural style. Acrylic coating can be applied to chance the color but will need recoating every 2 years minimum. 

TPO single ply roofing offers these advantages: 

• The Cost:  The cost for TPO single ply roofing installation is an impactful advantage over EPDM or PVC. 
• Flexibility: TPO single ply roofing is practical for both commercial and residential properties and comes is various colors that can meet the architectural aesthetics desired. TPO is UV resistant in all available colors of black, light gray, and white. It is a flexible material that building settling and shifting won’t affect it like it will EPDM single ply roofing with thermal contracting and expanding.  
• Easy Maintenance: TPO single ply roofing is resistant to mold growth, punctures, tears, and dirt accumulation. or settling in the building. Algae and mildew growth are unlikely, saving you cost for pressure washing. 
• Easy Installation: Because TPO single ply roofing material is lightweight wide sheets, installation is easier for the contractor, requiring less labor. The less labor lowers the expense of having TPO single ply roofing installed. The installation can be completed with adhesives, direct fastening, or heat welded. 
• Energy Savings: The reflective nature of TPO single ply roofing material is one of the main reasons building owners choose it. Meets Energy Star requirements of the EPA and the Cool Roof Rating Council features this single ply roofing material for structures in warmer climates to help with keeping a structure cooler in the summer. 

TPO single ply roofing offers these disadvantages: 

• Too New: TPO single ply roofing is still too new that there is no test of time for comparison to EPDM. The current research does confirm it is durable, cost effective, and so far proves to be long lasting. 
• Quality Varies: Each manufacturer of TPO single ply roofing  produces a different quality, some superior over others. It is recommended to check several out for comparison before choosing  TPO roofing membrane installation. 
• Thickness Disparity: The thicker TPO single ply roofing doesn’t necessarily make it more durable or a better quality. The research is still determining the thickness disparity and its value, but at this time, it is given a 20 year life expectancy when maintained. 
• Lamination: A TPO single ply roofing material’s uppermost part is laminated which creates a weak point and spurs cracking, shrinkage, and basic deterioration over time. 
• Seams: With TPO single ply roofing being sold in rolls of small-width, there are more seams, typically every 6 to 8 feet. This allows contracting and expanding of the temperature to cause the seams to loosen and pull apart. 

Water and roofs don’t always get along which is one reason roof flashing is so important. Major weather events are a threat to roofs and without roof flashing, the water can enter your home in the way of a leak at walls, around the chimney or skylight, or around any pipes and vents protruding from your roof.

There are four types of roof flashing, each having an important role in keeping rain from coming into your home and flow off and away from your home, working with the gutter system. Some homes only need one or two of these roof flashing types, and some homes need all four:

• The Drip Edge Roof Flashing: Along the eaves you’ll find drip edge flashing. This prevents water from a gutter that is overfilled from seeping up under the roof edge and shingles. Without drip edge roof flashing, rain could get under the last shingle or enter under the shingles from a sideway direction. Without drip edge roof flashing, the first damage will be the fascia board, causing it to rot and mold forms and spreads.  The next thing damaged is the roof deck and  then the drywalls inside your home.
• The Valley Roof Flashing: Your roofing contractor will install a felt underlayment over the roof decking, then the roof flashing is installed, followed by the shingles or other roofing material. The valleys are where the two parts of a roof meet, forming a valley.  Roof valleys are a key area for shingles to erode without roof flashing, then the roof leaks happen. With roof flashing in the V or W part of a roof, the water runs off to the drip edge roof flashing, into the gutter and away from the house.
• The Vent Pipe Roof Flashing: This roof flashing is a special type that fits tightly around pipes that come through the roof top. These vents create a weak point for a roof and without roof flashing snugly fit over the round pipes flange, roof leaks start round these protruding areas.
• The Step Roof Flashing: Any chimney or skylight should have roof flashing installed around it so that water moves past it and to the gutter. Step roof flashing is a scale-type arrangement of roof flashing pieces overlapping tightly with each other, slipped under each layer of shingles in the ascending direction.

Does flashing go over or under shingles?

The type of flashing, as described above, will determine how the roof flashing is installed.  For step flashing, it is installed before any siding, allowing the siding to cover the roof flashing. If this is a new roof or roof repair job, the siding is removed then replaced with the step roof flashing. The step roof flashing should extend eight to fourteen inches above the shingles.

Roof flashing around a chimney is typically installed beneath the shingles then secured with roofing cement to the chimney. Using roofing caulk, seal the intention so the counter flashing is securely hung.

Roof flashing around the plumbing vent is placed so that the flashing rests on top of the shingles and under the rubber boot around the vent. Use a sealant to hold the roof flashing in place. Then new shingles should be placed over the roof flashing and roofing cement applied under the shingles before nailing.

How do you fix roof flashing?

Often when you have a roof leak, the roof flashing is leaking and can often be an easy fix. For roof flashing that has corroded spots or small holes, patch any holes with the same type of flashing that is three-fourth inch diameter and plug the holes with roofing cement.

Using sandpaper, go around the hole to rough the roof flashing and then wipe clean with dry rage. With roofing cement, go over any holes and patches.

Of the roof flashing is bad, replace it after removing a few shingles. Once the new flashing is in place, replace the shingles.  These types of roof flashing repairs are best done by a roofing contractor.

Do roofers replace flashing?

Yes, and in many cases, as described above, when the flashing is missing or severely damaged, it is best to hire a roofing contractor to do the roof flashing replacement.

The cons of asphalt shingle roofing: 

• Vulnerability to weather: Here in Texas, asphalt shingle roof installation may be popular because of the weather. They are easy to break, crack, and come off during the hailstorms and wind storms we have. The hot Texas sun does a number on asphalt shingles too, causing them fade, contract and expand with the temperature changes too. With their ease of being replaced though, this can be overlooked by most homeowners as the pros outweigh this con. 
• Warm temperature installations: Asphalt installation must be done in warm weather. Installing in cold weather will put the shingles at risk of getting damaged. 
• Environmentally unfriendly: The manufacturing of asphalt shingles emits harmful greenhouse gas emissions and uses a lot of energy. An asphalt shingle installation creates a lot of waste with the old shingles being removed and taken to the landfills.  

How are asphalt shingles installed?

When your home needs a roof replacement, nothing can replace that of a professional roofing contractor doing the job. With each contractor you call ask them “Do you know how do you put asphalt shingles on a roof? What is your experience, do you have recent references with asphalt roof installation?” 

 However, if you’ve chosen to go with an asphalt shingle installation, you can find many sources of how-to on the internet. Here, we offer the basic process and steps that you can use to go along with the videos: 

1. Safety first:  While doing your asphalt shingle installation, remember you’re going to be working at a height you’re not accustomed. The risk of falling should be a main concern. 
2. Roof deck preparation. Before your asphalt shingle installation begins, you need to prepare the decking, making sure it is clean and smooth. Check the roof trusses, repairing or replacing any that may need it so that your new asphalt shingles will have a proper base.  
3. Start at the bottom. With an asphalt shingle installation, you’ll start working on the bottom row first, creating the drip edge along the eave. This is clean and sharp edge that provides protection for the lower edge from water damage caused by water backing up.
4. Ice dam protection. The roof of your home needs protection from ice dams and this is done by installing a thin, self-adhering membrane over the drip edge. This is a good time to make sure your attic has proper vapor barrier and adequate attic insulation, two of the key components of preventing ice dams. 
5. Underlayment roof protection. Next, you’ll install the roof underlayment, typically a felt material that is a backup the asphalt shingles water-shedding.  
6. The joints and valleys. Most roof leak occur where it can penetrate the asphalt shingle installation. These are areas where you need to install metal flashing for added water-shedding protection that directs the water to run downslope. 
7. The shingles. Now is time for the asphalt shingle installation. Starting at the bottom, you’ll overlap the shingles as you work across the roof and then up the slope. 
8. Caps for the hip and ridge. When the asphalt shingle installation part is complete, you’ll need to install them on the hip and ridge by straddling the ridge with the shingle to create a water shed. 

Should old shingles be removed?

It will depend on the stability of your home’s structure, and if the roofing contractor you hire to do your asphalt shingle installation says it is okay, then yes. While this will save you some money with less labor tearing off the old shingles, it won’t help the roof with energy efficiency and waterproofing. 

Can new asphalt shingles be installed over old shingles?

As we answered above, yes, if the roofing contractor is sure the structure of our home can hold the weight of two sets of asphalts shingles. Also, you need to keep in mind, asphalt shingles are designed to lay flat, and if they are bridging over dips, gaps, or humps, they won’t be able to lay flat. If you decide to sell the house later, the inspector won’t be able to do a thorough roof inspection of the decking. A big factor in a re-roofing asphalt roof installation, the warranty may be voided on the new shingles. 

It is an overwhelming choice when it comes to roofing materials, with asphalt shingle installation being the most common and popular choice. Metal roofing is coming on strong though, and for a several good reasons: 

• Metal is available in various colors and styles
• Metal is durable, yet lightweight, making working with it easy
• Metal roofing is more energy efficient when installed properly with insulation
• Metal roofing has a longer lifespan, up to 70 years or longer

Asphalt shingle installation is a common and popular choice. It has been around for years, giving a homeowner the protection they need for the most important investment they own. Call 817-349-0016 today!

How do I know when my roof needs to be replaced?

Don’t wait until there is water pouring into your home through the ceiling before asking yourself, “Should I repair or replace my roof?”. Now, while everything is dry and happy, check for these     signs you need a roof replacement: 

• Shingle edges are curled, cupped shingle tabs
• Bald spots, missing granules, or abundance of granules in gutters or around the house
• Broken, cracked, or missing shingles
• Your roof is 20 years old or older
• The roof looks old, tired, and worn
• New roofs are showing up in the neighborhood
• Algae, dark streaks, mildew, moss on the roof     

Can you patch a roof instead of replacing it?

Well, we have good news and bad news for you in regard to patching and repair your roof or getting a roof replacement.  The bad news: your house will need a roof replacement at some point. The good news: more often than not, unless there is severe damage or the roof is old, roof repair is an option.  

When it comes to roof replacement vs roof restoration, which is the better option? Financially, A complete roof replacement is more expensive than roof repair or roof restoration, and it takes longer to complete. However, if you have severe enough damage that it is irreversible, roof replacement is the better option and will improve or maintain your property value. 

What are the pros and cons of a roof replacement?

There isn’t one simple answer to this question, and it isn’t the same for your home as it was for your friend or your neighbor. Getting a professional roofing contractor to inspect and advise is the best thing you can do when you’re not sure what you need.  

The Pros 

• Longer lifespan
• No repairs in the immediate future

The Cons 

• The immediate cost

How are roofs replaced?

When you have a roof replacement done, the old shingles are torn off down to the decking. Then repairs are made if needed, replacing the underlayment or felt paper to protect the roof  from possible damage from the elements. Then the roofing material is installed – this is the part you see from the street. 

If you can file a claim on your homeowner’s insurance, that’s great, but if not, not getting roof repair or roof replacement isn’t the answer. Your home is an important part of your life and one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make. Ignoring repairs or the need for roof replacement is only going to create more problems. Considering roof replacement or restoration? Call 817-349-0016 today!

How Do I Temporarily Fix My Roof?

If you need to temporarily fix your roof until a professional roofing company arrives to assist, you will need a sturdy ladder, a roofing tarp, roofing nails, and a hammer. It is important to note that roofs are dangerous places. It is high off the ground, and you do have the propensity to fall. That is why it is always advisable to use roofing contractors in such instances. While you are awaiting a professional roofing company, you can place a tarp over the area of the roof that needs repairs and hammer it into place using roof nails and your hammer. 

How Do I Stop My Roof from Leaking Inside?

If you have a leak inside your home, you’ll be pleased to discover that there are things that you can ostensibly do to prevent the leak from getting worse. For example, once you have found the leak, you can make a temporary leak patch. You can compose the patch from some plywood or shingle and some roofing tar. With a putty knife, you can spread the tar into the leaking hole on the inside of your roof. You will then be able to place the shingle or plywood onto the tar and spread more of the tar around the edges of your patch.

What is the Best Sealant for Roofs?

Are you wondering what the best sealant for roofs is? In that case, it is important to be aware that the best sealants on the market can be reviewed according to the roof type. Please read over the following bullet points to discover more.

• For metal roofs: urethane or oxime-cure silicone that is non-corrosive and polyether sealants work quite well.
• For polyurethane foam: urethane, oxime-cure silicone or polyether sealants are recommended.

What is Roof Sealer?

If you have never heard of roof sealants, it will be important for you to educate yourself. As a matter of fact, roof sealants provide an extra layer of protection from the elements. Sealants are especially important for flat roofs. That is because flat roofs tend to collect water, and roof sealants assist in protecting the roof from deteriorating caused by ponding water. A roof sealant can also be applied to a sloped roof as it ages in order to extend the life and prevent leaks.

How to Make Emergency Roof Repair

There are a number of ways to conduct your emergency roof repair. It is important to remember that the most qualified individuals to ascend your roof and repair it are those employed by a professional roofing company. Roofing companies will have insurance and be able to ascertain the current condition of your roof. If the problem is extremely minimal, like a few missing roof shingles, then the fix will be very simple. You can smooth the shingles back down or shift them back into place. You can then nail them or staple them over the exposed area. At that point you can speak with a professional roofing company to ascertain what other repairs are necessary.

Emergency Roof Repair Services

Emergency roof repairs services are especially necessary for situations where there is a roof leak or if a natural disaster has occurred. Storm damages that have occurred as a result of a broken tree limb, high-speed winds, or hail may be covered by your insurance provider. It will depend on the written policy pertaining to the homeowner’s insurance. If there is a clause in the insurance that doesn’t cover storm damages, it will be important for you to review the terms of your contract.

Emergency Roof Leak Repair

Water damage can be devastating for the integrity of a roof and home. Water must penetrate many different layers of your roof, including your underlayment, in order to come through your attic and ceiling. During that time, you could easily have mold and mildew growing in your house. If you have water damage, it will be important for you to mediate the damage with a water damage restoration company.

When you need emergency roof repair in Fort Worth, TX, you can rely on McStay Quality Roofing to get the job done right. Please reach out to us as soon as possible at our phone number, 817-349-0016.

What does roof restoration mean?

Roof restoration involves the process of cleaning, recoating and restoring existing roofing materials with a layer or coating of a roofing product. As commercial roofing systems last about 20 years a roof coating can extend its life by 10-15 years. What’s more, they provide for minor repairs in themselves with situations like light wear or leaks.

What is involved in roof restoration?

Roof restoration involves the process of applying highly-engineered roof coating products on existing roof decks to restore it to like-new conditions. There are products out that can match with PVC, EPDM, TPO, built-up, MOD-BIT and even some SPF roofing. Essentially, no matter the roofing material that you may have there will be a roof coating out there that can help restore it.

When to do a Roof Restoration

Roof Restoration vs Replacement

If damages to a roof are minimal or confined to small areas, a roof restoration is the best option to partake in. With larger or extensive areas, or if the roof is already near the end of its natural lifespan, a replacement is more recommended. Since replacements involve tearing off older roofing materials costs are higher. As a matter of fact, a roof restoration is actually considered a maintained expenditure while a replacement is a capital expense so in most cases, you’ll pay fewer taxes on maintenance. This is done by taking the current deduction vs capitalizing the expense and recovering the cost through depreciation. 

Does roof coating stop leaks?

If there are minor leaks to your roof essentially a roof coating will seal up punctures or holes. After being applied in liquid form they will expand and harden thereby filling up the opening. 

Roof Restoration Types

The main three types of roof restoration coatings out there are silicone, acrylic and aluminum yet there are many others used and available as well.

How much does roof restoration cost?

The cost of roof restoration will depend on the type of roofing system yet since it requires less labor and materials in comparison to other roofing services the average in costs are typically at a cheaper range at $6-$9 per square.

How long does a roof restoration take?

Not keeping in mind other circumstances like weather or material availability, a roof restoration job will take around 2-3 days. It’s typically a fast service and won’t disrupt day-to-day life.

Is roof restoration worth it?

A roof restoration is well worth it with its cheaper costs and ability to make minor repairs and restorations. It will extend the life of the roof 10-15 years longer which can save on costs until a more costly full-on replacement needs to be made. A roof coating can be reapplied after the previous one has passed time so you can potentially have your roof last twice as long as it was initially supposed to. Of course, it’s best to speak to a professional roofer to make sure this can be done depending on your roof’s history and materials. Consider speaking to a professional about any questions or concerns you may have about your roofing system.

Get In Touch With A Professional Roofer

If your property is in need of roof restoration be sure to get into contact with your local roofing company. Only will a professional will be able to make a roof inspection to properly gauge what needs to be done with your roof. Based on your property’s specifications and diagnosis you’ll be able to determine which roofing materials and coatings will match well together. It’s important to get your roof fixed when any changes occur so it can last a long time. Make sure to have inspections done after harsh inclement weather or at least annually for better roof longevity and performance. A roof restoration is a great way to provide for property stability and renewed functions. 

If you’re interested in roof restoration in Fort Worth, TX call 817-349-0016 with McStay Quality Roofing!

What is the best material for a flat roof?

The most popular material used for flat roof covering is metal because of its durability, specifically aluminum. A flat metal roof has a lifespan of 30 to 35 years in ideal climate and environment conditions.

Metal is a reflective material, another bonus of a flat roof that lowers energy expenses because it reflects the UV rays. Typically, metal is in large sheets, but smaller sheets can be ordered for special fittings on a flat roof.

The downsize to a metal covered flat roof is when it must be replaced. When replacement is needed, it is required to remove all the old roof, regardless of what material was on it.  A metal flat roof is prone to rust, another downside. When this happens, the above-mentioned replacement is necessary.

How long do flat roofs last?

There are several factors that can affect a flat roof life expectancy. From the quality of the workmanship to the quality of the building materials, from the climate and the environment to the maintenance and upkeep. 

Because a flat roof does not have drainage like a pitched roof, it is prone to hold water. If the roofing material has any holes or tears, that water seeps through to the roof below the material.  Therefore, it is important to have the roof inspected regularly to patch any holes or tears. The lifespan of the following popular flat roof materials is: 

• BUR (Built Up Roof): A BUR flat roof is the most familiar and is constructed with heated asphalt and plywood layered together. The life expectancy of BUR flat roof is fifteen to twenty years.
• PVC: This flat roof material needs experienced and skilled labor to install the large sheets of this material correctly. Used as the main waterproofing component for flat roofs, it is hot welded to the pieces surrounding it and offers a lifespan of 30 years when maintained properly.
• EPDM: This material is a large rubber sticker that is carefully rolled onto a flat roof. It is difficult to install because of its size and because there can’t be any air pockets. This flat roof material has a life expectancy of 10 to 15 years.
• TPO: TPO is very much like EPDM and PVC with its durability and effectiveness. The life expectancy of TPO is seven to twenty years. 

How often do flat roofs need replacing?

There are many benefits to a commercial roof having flat roofs. With proper maintenance, including regular inspection, they should last a minimum of 50 years.  Over the past few decades, they have used several types of materials for commercial flat roofs, with the following three being the most common: 

• EPDM – replacement averages every 25 to 30 years
• PVC – replacement averages every 20 years or longer
• TPO – replacement averages every 15 to 20 years

Do flat roofs leak more?

A flat roof does not shed water like a pitched roof. However, if installed properly, a flat roof should never leak if some maintenance as recommended by the builder and the roofing material manufacturer.

How do you waterproof a flat roof?

Water does not run off flat roofs as it does on sloped roofs, thus, it needs to be waterproofed, which is typically done with two applications of an elastomeric coating. This coating will also insulate whatever material is on the roof in addition to making it waterproof. 

While the building maintenance team can do this, flat roof experts recommend having it done professionally. There are certain measures that need to be taken to walk on a flat roof, a process that commercial building contractors such as roofers, HVAC and plumbers know and understand that importance. 

With that recommendation made, the steps required to apply a waterproofing material on a flat roof are: 

1. Measure the roof then multiply the length with the width to get the square footage. This will tell you it needs how much waterproof coating for your flat roof. 
2. Clean the flat roof surface with a broom or pressure washer to remove any dirt and dust. If a pressure washer is used, you must allow it to dry before applying the waterproofing material. 
3. Pour one gallon of the elastomeric flat roof coating on the roof and use a paint roller, spread evenly, starting in one corner and working around the roof backward. Avoid stepping on the coating and repeat after 24 hours of waiting. 

Note that all 3 of these suggestions are for temporary repair only. You need to have a contractor with experience in a flat roof inspect the damage and the entire roof and make a permanent repair or resurface the roof.

Your commercial building is an expensive investment, the flat roof on that building is an investment for protecting that investment. Have the best flat roof material possible for your area’s climate and the environment will give you the longest lifespan and most ROI. Need a flat roof replacement in Fort Worth, TX? Call 817-349-0016 today!

After you have bought the house, there are a lot of responsibilities when it comes to homeownership. Besides the mortgage, insurance, taxes, and utilities, there is maintenance and preventive maintenance. Sometimes, those maintenance and preventive maintenance tasks need to be done by a professional, like a roof inspection for insurance purposes.

What is included in a roof inspection?

A roof inspection will include exterior and interior checks. Depending on what type of materials that the roof is made of will determine what a professional roofing contractor will look for. The interior portion of a roof inspection will include checking the insulation and ventilation in the attic, as well as checking for any moisture and mold. The exterior portion of a roof inspection will include the inspector to climb up on the roof to check several things, depending on if the house has shingle roofing or metal roofing.

A shingle roof inspection will include these areas that are known for these common issues:

• Water damage – If a roof inspection finds water damage, there can be several issues that caused that. Water not draining suitably because of clogged gutters, loose flashing, damaged or missing shingles are the usual culprits.
• Mold – A roof inspection that finds mold growing around or on the chimney or on attic insulation indicates excessive water damage.
• Deteriorating shingles – As we stated above, loose or missing shingles is an issue that a roof inspection will note. Shingles with algae or rot will be noted as well.
• Clogged gutters – A roof inspection will include checking the gutter system, making sure it is clear of any debris or shingle granules.

A metal roof inspection will be looking for areas of concern for leaks, as well as the following areas:

• Loose seams – Because metal roofs contract and expand with the weather, the screws that are used to install them can be come loosened and the seams to separate. When left unattended, condensation can build up on the underlying structure and create water damage.
• Damaged or Loose flashing – A metal roof inspection will look for damaged or loose flashing. Water can seep into those areas and begin corroding the underside.  
• Rust – A metal roof inspection will look for any rust. Rust eats holes into metal roofing, allowing water to leak in, and over time, the metal roof panels will fall apart.

How long does a roof inspection take?

The time it takes to complete a roof inspection will depend on the size of the house being an inspection. A house with multiple levels, additions, or wings can take longer than a basic “box” style house.  The average time is anywhere from 45 minutes to several hours.

Who can do a roof inspection?

Anyone with a ladder and isn’t afraid of heights can inspect a roof, but that doesn’t make them a roofing professional. If you need a roof inspection, you should call a roofing contractor that is certified, insured, licensed, and preferably has experience with recommendations and strong reputation.  Be careful in hiring a company that has left a flyer on your door without doing your homework to check them out.

2. The Interior:

• With a flashlight, look for leaks in the attic, indicated by dark stains or wet areas on the rafters, the decking, around the chimney, HVAC pipes, plumbing vent pipes, skylights, and valleys.
• If you push a sharp object through any dark spots, you currently have a leak.
• Turn off the flashlight and look for any light coming through cracks or pinpoints.  
• Check for sagging between rafters.

Are roof inspections free?

This price will vary from city to city, state to state and the size of the house being inspected. Some roofing contractors offer free roof inspections, and some will offer free roof inspection with the purchase of a roofing job.

Your home is an important investment, and the roof should be in the best shape possible. It not only is protecting you, your family, and the contents but it keeps the walls up too! Take care of your roof with regular roof inspections, and it will take care of you! Call 817-349-0016 today for a roof inspection from McStay Quality Roofing in Fort Worth, TX!

When shingles are torn off the roof, they will leave the underlayment, roof deck or prior shingles exposed to nature’s wrath.  In other cases, strong winds can lead to shingles that lift and subsequently curl.  Once shingles are removed or compromised due to storm conditions, it is that much easier for water to move below and cause roof leaks.  Furthermore, hail has the potential to put pockmarks and dent in shingles, dislodging the granules meant to protect against storms.

How do You Know if Your Roof is Damaged?

If you are still wondering “Is there storm damage to my roof?” you are not alone.  This is the top concern of people throughout the greater Fort Worth, TX area after a powerful storm passes through.  Unless you get up on a ladder to check out the integrity of your roof after the storm has passed, there will be no way to know the extent of storm damage roof shingles, if leak repair is necessary or if you need a full replacement.

However, it is possible to perform a superficial scan from the ground level.  Walk around your home’s perimeter while keeping your eyes on the roof.  If you notice curled shingles, shingles around the ground level of your home, a compromised chimney, damaged gutters or any other obvious forms of damage, your roof will require either repair or replacement.  However, there is only so much you can see from the ground level.  It is better to have a roofing professional climb a ladder to inspect the integrity of your roof in a truly comprehensive manner after the storm has passed.  Additional signs of new roof storm damage every homeowner should know include cracked shingles, split seams, torn flashing and even portions that are blown right off the structure.

What do You do After a Storm?

Now that the storm is over, it is time to take a look for damage as detailed above.  There is a good chance a powerful storm will either require repair or replacement so don’t assume your Fort Worth, TX home is perfectly fine just because it is still standing.  Here’s how to proceed after the storm:

• Perform a superficial scan for noticeable damage
• Call your insurance agent to determine if you should file a claim
• Hire a professional roofer to perform an in-depth inspection on top of the roof
• Obtain an estimate for roof repair/replacement
• Determine when roof repair/replacement will be necessary
• Decide on the repair/replacement materials
• Let the experienced roofers perform the repair/replacement on your behalf

The best roofers in the business are willing to sit down with you to explain the importance of the necessary repairs/replacement.  This is your opportunity to pick the roofer’s brain, ask questions and have your concerns addressed.  From the optimal roofing materials to safeguard your home to financing options, warranties and scheduling, the roofer you select should be 100% clear about every aspect of this project.

How can I Tell When my Roof was Replaced?

In some cases, damage resulting from a storm makes it clear the roof was recently replaced or replaced at some point in the past.  However, there is no concrete way to tell exactly when your roof was replaced unless the prior owner explicitly states the replacement date.  There is nothing wrong with asking the prior owner when the roof was last replaced or if there is any roof damage by storm.  Certain counties mandate the use of a building permit when a new roof is installed.  If you can find the building permit through the building department, you might be able to pinpoint the exact date the roofing permit was provided.  If the roofer you are currently working with replaced the roof in the past, ask for a copy of the receipt of workmanship.  When in doubt, rely on a home inspector or roofing company to provide an estimate of the roof’s installation date.