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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!

What Roof Damage is Covered By Insurance?

Many homeowner insurance policies will provide coverage for roof damage that is caused by reasons that aren’t preventable. While homeowner insurance will not pay for normal instances of wear and tear, it will pay for severe weather events that occur in the area. Severe weather events can be classified as “acts of God.” These weather events include severe storms, hail damage, wind damage, tornados, and hurricanes. The best way to find out for sure is to consult your homeowner’s insurance policy to find out the details of your roof coverage.

What is Considered Wind Damage to a Roof?

Are you wondering if your roof storm damage is actually wind damage? Please review the following examples of roof wind damage to find out more.

• Missing shingles. If shingles are missing from the surface of your roof, it is imperative that you call a viable roofing company. Repairs will be necessary so that water does not penetrate the sensitive roof underlayment.
• Curled or damage roofing shingles. Winds tend to affect the edges of the roof far more than the center. 
• Granules missing from the shingles. Severe winds will demean the integrity of your roofing shingles by removing layers of asphalt granules.

Can 1 Inch Hail Damage a Roof?

Even when hail is smaller than 1 inch, it can significantly damage a roof. Even though the damage may not be glimpsed from far away, the impact of hail can damage not only the roofing shingle, but also the underlayment. This kind of hail damage is known as “bruising.” The larger the hail, the more significant the amount of hail damage. Hail that is greater than two inches in diameter, for instance, can nearly always cause some level of hail damage to an asphalt shingle roof.

Should I Replace My Roof After Hail?

When hail is combined with snow, sleet, and rain, hail can influence some major pressure on a roof. When hail is occurring, it is always best to stay indoors. When scheduling a hail damage inspection, it is always best to have a roofing company stop by as soon as possible. That way, the roofer can determine the extent of the damage and attribute it to the proper sources. A professional roofing company will also have the capability of determining the difference between the need for a roof repair or the more sincere answer to a roofing conundrum, a roof replacement.

Claiming Storm Damage on Roof

If you believe that you have storm damage on your roof, you should contact a reliable roofing company that has the tools and capability to scan the circumference of your roof. The flashing, shingles, vents and chimney should all be inspected. If the roof was damaged in a storm or by debris that fell as a result of the storm, home insurance should cover the cost of the resulting damages. Roof insurance claims from storm damages are rarely easy, which is why it’s important to have significant documentation and perseverance when dealing with an insurance agent or company.

Storm Damage to Flat Roof

It actually doesn’t take a significant amount of wind to damage a flat roof. A forty to fifty mile per hour wind can pull off loose fascia and edge flashing. Wind can be just as damaging a hail, ice, and rain upon the surface of a roof, which is why it can’t be discounted when verifying storm damage. A professional roofing contractor’s job is to scale the roof and investigate every nook and cranny of the roof in order to determine the extent of the damage. After the roofer has documented the extent of the roof storm damage, he or she will determine the best course of action for the roof.

Storm Damage to Conservatory Roof

Conservatory roofs can become damaged by fallen trees or falling debris from storms. Heavy snow can also compromise the structural integrity of the roof structure.

Have you experienced storm damage to your roof? Our friendly operators at McStay Quality Roofing are available now at 817-349-0016 to schedule repairs for your roof storm damage in Fort Worth, TX.

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.

Asphalt Roof Shingles Pros and Cons

Asphalt Roof Shingles vs Metal

Of course, the one thing most homeowners want to know is which is better: asphalt shingles or metal roof? The answer is both easy and complicated at the same time.

Choosing a residential roofing structure is dependant on several things including your environment, your budget, your concerns, and many more. If you live in an area with drastic temperature changes and little to no hail, then a metal roof may be the better investment for you. The material will be able to withstand the temperature changes without breaking and becoming damaged. 

That being said, if you live in an area with heavy rain and hail-fall, then an asphalt shingle roof may be the better investment. While metal can withstand impacts, it can become dented and dinged and the repairs to remove them can be costly. Most asphalt shingles, like architectural and impact-resistant shingles, are actually designed to handle those impacts.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How long do asphalt roof shingles last?
  • Generally speaking, asphalt shingles can last between 20-25 years. That is taking into consideration regular temperatures, consistent maintenance, and non-threatening damages or elements. Without at least a yearly inspection, homeowners can see the life-expectancy significantly decrease.
• Are asphalt roofs good?
  • They are actually very good. There have been new innovations that are proving to be more efficient than asphalt shingle roofing, but that doesn’t discredit the tried and true reliability of this material. Plus, there are several advances in the way of asphalt shingles that make them more durable, while still maintaining the affordability.
• Are architectural shingles worth it?
  • It depends on what your needs are. Architectural shingles could be a great investment for those in areas with more rain or hail since the shingles themselves are thicker. If you don’t need protection from those things, they may not be the best investment.
• Are metal roofs better than shingles?
  • Which is better will depend on your needs and your location. Areas that are prone to hail or extreme weather conditions may benefit from a metal roof but will find the need to repair dents and dings. Those repairs can be costly, which can make a metal roof seem less of a good financial investment.