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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.

The elemental composition of a green roof contains of the following: 

• Vegetation
• Growing medium
• Filter membrane
• Drainage layer
• Waterproof and root repellant layer
• Roofing membrane support
• Thermal insulation
• Vapor control layer
• Structural support

Can you put a green roof on an existing building?

Yes, in many cases, installing a green roof on an existing structure is sometimes preferred by the installing contractor. Green vegetative roofs are popping up in big and small cities, providing beauty and more.  It is recommended to use the services of a professional that knows how to install a green roof because of the details involved in doing it correctly. 

The weight limitations of a roof will depend on which type of green roof is the best option, extensive or intensive, and if it can be retrofitted. There is the need to choose the right type of roof membrane, drainage, and insulation that are often learned by experience.      

How do you maintain a green roof?

Like a typical garden, a green roof garden has some required maintenance, especially during the first season or two, as it takes root and develops. How much maintenance is determined by how which type of green roof garden you plant: Extensive or Intensive. In general, the seven things that will need human interactions are: 

1. Unwanted plants weeded out.
2. Keep the drainage clean and clear.
3. Biannually, add compost 
4. Unwanted plants weeded out again. 
5. Water only if needed. 
6. Treat for disease and pests as needed.
7. Keep a detailed log of maintenance performed. 

Why get a green roof?, Is green roof good?

A green roof adds beauty to an area often neglected. A green roof also provides many benefits to the building and the area around it, which we have summarized here: 

• Economically Beneficial: The upfront cost is expensive to install a green roof, but the economic benefits that follow are many, starting with the increased R-value for the roofing system. With this extra layer of insulation, the internal temperature is lower, easing the workload of the HVAC system, using less electricity. 
• Stormwater Management Improved: A green roof provides help in controlling stormwater runoff and retention. 
• Urban Heat Island Effect Reduced and Air Quality Improved: A garden roof can help lower the temperature around the building, helping to reduce the urban heat island temperature. 
• Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduced: With reduced cooling loads, the greenhouse gas emissions from HVAC equipment is reduced.
• Roof Life Extended: A green roof can extend the existing roof’s life expectancy by protecting it from UV rays and extreme temperatures.

Do green roofs leak?

A green roof will not create any leaks when installed by a professional. A green roof will extend the life of the existing membrane because of the thick protective layer it provides against mechanical damage, extreme fluctuation in temperature, and intense UV rays.

Overall, it is worth considering having a green roof installed. A structural engineering report is recommended by roofing experts no matter how new the building.  Then making sure you commit others to help with the maintenance and upkeep so that the burden doesn’t fall on one person. Once they see the beauty and fruits of their labor, more people may join in with the green roof upkeep. Call 817-349-0016 today for your green roof installation in Fort Worth, TX.

• Fully adhered
• Mechanically attached
• Ballasted

When EPDM roofing is installed, it has seams where the rolls meet to keep the seams from leaking; they are sealed with either a liquid adhesive or a specially formulated tape. EPDM roofing costs can average between Expect to pay between $ 8,300 and $15,000 for a flat roof measuring 1,500 square feet. The cost can vary if the existing roof needs to be torn off and removed, or the new EPDM roofing can be installed over the existing. 

How does EPDM roofing work?

In North Texas, we see a lot of hailstorms, hard rain, and windstorms, and there isn’t a better single-ply roofing product better than EPDM roofing. This synthetic rubber roofing bounces hailstones off with minimal damage, if any, to the roofing. Compared to TPO, another popular roof coating for flat roofs doesn’t hold up very well to hail. 

Is EPDM roofing any good?

One roofing option that some consider is felt, and between that material and EPDM roofing, the opportunity more affordable is the EPDM roofing. It is also the most durable for flat roofing buildings in the North Texas area because of the vast weather differences we have. 

As we stated earlier, EPDM roofing is a rubber type of material that is long-lasting and made from recycled rubber, making it an eco-friendly material. 

How long does an EPDM roof last?

Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer – EPDM roofing – a rubber-type black membrane is usually non-reinforced. It fully adheres to flashing and seams glued seams down in place. The material has a warranty of forty years, and the life expectancy of the installation of this type has a life expectancy between 20 years to 35 years. 

With regular inspections and proper maintenance, some EPDM roofing system has lasted up to forty years. Other factors in the lifespan of EPDM roofing, or any roofing, is the climate and environment as well as inspections and maintenance. 

Is EPDM rubber waterproof?

EPDM roofing, a synthetic rubber derived from petroleum products, is over 500% extreme elasticity, making it the most flexible single-ply membrane. It is a UV-resistant and weather-resistant material, ideal for structures with flat roofs. 

Does EPDM shrink?

EPDM roofing material is a synthetic rubber, and even while this rubber membrane is of high quality, it will shrink over time naturally. Factors that can speed up the shrinkage are overexposure to rain, snow, and the sun’s UV rays. As it shrinks, it becomes tense and tight, causing it to break loose or tear. Even with this history, because the EPDM roof has a history of being durable, it is used to seal roofs, vehicles, and windows. 

How do you care for EPDM roof?

For the maintenance crew responsible for inspection and maintenance of an EPDM roofing, assurance that cleaning this rubberized roofing material isn’t anything to dread. They also need to realize that it is proper maintenance will ensure a prolonged lifespan of protection. If there is excessive wear-and-tear, extended cleaning may be required.

The list of EPDM roofing is shorter than the pros, which should be a selling point: 

• While cheaper to purchase, the installation of EPDM is more than other roofing materials. 
• Not the best material in every environment and requires frequent maintenance in some settings. 
• Not aesthetically pleasing.

Looking to get started on EPDM roofing in Fort Worth, TX? Call the experts at McStay Quality Roofing today at 817-349-0016.

How long does it take to inspect a roof?

A thorough inspection should take between forty-five minutes to an hour for an average-sized home. Larger houses with multiple attics and levels could take two hours. 

What should I expect from a roof inspection?

A professional roofing inspector, whether it is a roofing contractor or the insurance company, will climb up on the roof and examine the chimney, dormers, flashing, and gutters. They will examine the roofing material’s condition, any signs of roof damage, and any remedial work that has been done previously. They check the eaves, fasteners, roof braces, and support material. They will inspect inside the attic, house, and the interior of the chimney.

You should receive a copy of the inspection either after they have completed it, or it will be emailed or mailed to you within a day or two. The following is a roof inspection example will be checked off with any notation of any roof damaged that was found:

The Exterior Inspection:

The Interior Inspection 

• Cracks on sheathing from the attic side.
• Check for proper attic ventilation.
• Sag between rafters.
• Sunlight coming through.
• Check attic vents for proper ventilation.
• Check exhaust for bathroom and kitchen proper ventilation.
• Check for leaks around the chimney, pipes, vents, and any protrusions.
• Check for condensation, mold, or wet insulation.

Does a new roof need to be inspected?

If you’re having a new roof installed, the roofing contractor will inspect the job before they ask you to sign off on the job.  If the new roofing is because of roof damage, the insurance company will have it inspected once it is complete. What about a brand unused house with a brand new roof?  There are inspectors that will inspect the house from top to bottom, side to side, and inside out.

When re-roofing is necessary, like after roof damage from storms, take your time to choose a contractor you can trust. Get more than one quote and compare them. Ask the contractors for references and check those references.  Your roof is an important part of your home, you want to make sure you’re getting the best job possible. Give McStay Quality Roofing a call today at 817-349-0016 for your roof inspection needs.

What is the difference between built up roofing and modified bitumen?

Commercial buildings typically have a flat roof that is nearly level in disparity to a sloped roof. The benefit of a flat roof is the convenience of installing the outdoor component of an HVAC, instead of stationing it in a high-traffic area on the ground.

For a commercial flat roof, of all the different options to choose from, the built up roof system or modified roof system are the most common. Both are low-slope roofing systems used on commercial buildings. Both modified and built-up roofing and waterproofing layers, both have reinforcement, and both have surfaces. So, yes, exactly what is the difference between the two?

Built-up Roof Systems

Built-up roofing has been around in the United States for over 100 years and is named BUR or built up roof from the use of layers to build up the roof. Those layers comprise a base sheet, interplay sheets, cap sheet or some other surfacing like gravel and tar coating.

Built up roof is the form of roofing that involves alternating a layer of bitumen, asphalt, or cold applied adhesive, with a layer of fabrics that are joined, creating a membrane. Once a coating or layer of aggregate is applied, the roofing is completed. The finish with gravel, granules, or slag give the final coating of a built up roof a rocky appearance but is smooth.

Modified Bitumen Roof Systems

An alternative to built up roof system is the conventional modified-bitumen roof system that comprise asphalt and plastic or rubber polymers. Besides the safer application that modified bitumen versus built up roof system, it also offers a built-in redundancy, flexibility, and UV resistance.

There are two types of Modified Bitumen Roofsystem:

• APP – atactic polypropylene
• SBS – styrene-butadiene-styrene

The styrene-butadiene-styrene is the most common with a membrane that is highly flexible, a stronger expansion, and capabilities of contraction.  Atactic polypropylene has a longer lifespan due to its exceptional aging properties.

Modified bitumen is a hybrid of high-technology formulation and prefabrication that gives it the benefits of single-ply with traditional roof installation like those used in built-up roof system. The membranes are layers of asphalt and factory-fabricated of a plastic or rubber ingredients with a reinforcement.

How much does built up roofing weight?

Built up roof that typically includes the built-up membrane itself, with or without gravel, cover board, and some type of insulation will vary in thickness between roofs. To estimate an existing roof’s weight, it is necessary to verify the in-place construction and include the materials used when calculating the weight of a roof. Approximate weight of built up roof:

• 3-Ply, Gravel-Surface – 6 pounds per square foot
• 3-Ply, Smooth-Surfaced – 2.33 pounds per square foot
• 4-Ply, Gravel-Surfaced – 6.3 pounds per square foot
• 4-Ply, Smooth-Surfaced – 2.58 pounds per square foot

How do you install a built up roof?

First, with a built up roof construction, contractors lay and fastened base sheets to the subsystem with roofing nails. Next, they use adhesive, asphalt, concrete, or tar, to glue felt over the base sheeting. Last, the final layer roofers install cap sheets or gravel, then topped off with a layer of asphalt.

Roofing is an expense that commercial building owners don’t want to incur often. By choosing a built up roof that fits the demands of their roof and gives them a long lifespan for the most return of their investment. Lets get started on your built up roofing needs in Fort Worth, TX. Call 817-349-0016 today!