Miami Roofing

Moss, algae, dirt and particulate buildup in general poses a danger to residential and commercial roofs. Unfortunately, many of the products designed to clean roofs pose a different type of danger. Most commercial cleaning materials have not been evaluated for environmental or human safety. They may contain such toxins as chlorine, sodium hypochlorite, copper sulfate and tri-sodium phosphate (TSP). Besides posing a serious risk for the health of plants, pets and children, TSP and other ingredients can corrode metal fixtures and damage other surfaces.

The solution is to use so-called green or alternative cleaners. These are products that are verified to be non-toxic. The chemical ingredients won’t damage the home or linger in the soil either.

- Identifying Alternative Roof Cleaners
Since the presence of a product on the shelf doesn’t necessarily mean it is safe to use, how can consumers choose a green cleaner? Products may not have a complete list of ingredients, and they may contain some labeling information that is misleading. For instance, the biodegradable label only means a product breaks down in the environment. Even a label of non-toxic, according to consumer products watchdog Greener Choices, does not have specific standards governing its use.

Instead of falling prey to misleading labels, look for federally mandated hazardous waste warnings. They include:

• Toxic Poison
• Caution
• Flammable
• Combustible Irritant
• Corrosive
• Danger Warning

If a product is unsafe to dispose of in a landfill, it is not a green product. Remember to always follow the label directions closely. With so many products to choose from, it can often be confusing for homeowners to decide what route they should take for the cleaning requirements of there property . However,  when it comes to safety and quality, one can never be to careful. If you are unsure as to which products are best suited for your home, contact Miami Roof-Tech and we will assist in helping you determine which option is right for your roofing system.

How to Choose Between a Professional Maintenance Contract or DIY Inspections

Tips for tree maintenance and other ways to to prevent roofing damage.

It’s a nightmarish scene. You’re snuggled in bed, listening to the wind drive sheets of rain at the windows, and suddenly the window is replaced by a tree limb. Though far less dramatic, tree limbs damage residential and commercial roofs every day and in every type of weather. If unchecked, even small tears in shingles or flashing can result in the need for costly roof repairs. It turns out that attention to the surrounding vegetation and regular inspection can catch problems early and even prevent them altogether.

Tree Maintenance Lessons
Everyone in Miami has seen the wide swath of trimmed trees and shrubs created by utility companies. Many of the trimmed trees are not even close to the power lines, but we at Miami Roof-Tech know there is good reason for their removal. During high winds, tree limbs flail about considerably. The sturdier the tree, the more its branches move during a storm. The first lesson is to remove all branches that hang over the roof.

While identifying limbs for removal, take note of any tree or shrub at roof height that looks distressed. Dead and/or decaying foliage should be promptly removed, and obviously diseased trees should be removed or treated for the illness. Diseases are often visible through inspection of the bark and any exposed roots.

A tree that was distressed during early growth periods also poses a hazard to the roof. It may be healthy now yet still exhibit poor structure. Misshapen trees are often more likely to break during high winds. Dense canopy trees are another roof danger that can only be prevented through pruning or removal.

Inspection and Other Preventive Measures
After storms, the roofing materials, including tiles/shingles, flashing and gutters, should be inspected and promptly repaired if necessary. The cost of tree maintenance, inspection and repairs is minimal compared to the cost of water infiltration and subsequent roof repair or replacement.

Trees and large shrubs are enjoyed by many people. Besides their beauty, they can save home owners money by providing shade. Careful tree selection, site preparation, pruning, companion planting and fertilization can further minimize the risk of roof damage.

The most common areas a roof leaks, and how to repair them.

Any visible evidence of rook leakage, such as water stains on the ceiling, is an immediate concern for the home owner. Above the water stain, you are likely to find mold, rotted framing and damaged insulation among other problems. This is why experts recommend routine inspections of the roof and attic once a year and after extreme weather events. Whether you spot a leak early or late, knowledge of the common areas leaks develop and how to repair these will save you time and money.

The Search
There is no need to inspect every inch of your Miami roofing system during the search for a leak. Start with the part of the roof above the damage. Keep in mind that leaks can develop on open areas of shingles or other materials, but this is far less common than another type of leak. Water penetration is most likely to occur where the roof is already penetrated, such as chimneys, vents, plumbing, dormers and other items.

Other common areas include anywhere the roof meets a flat wall, the roof changes direction creating a “valley,” or flashing is visible. Most leaks can be positively identified with a garden hose and inside helper. Start at the lowest point of the suspected leak area, and slowly work your way up until the helper sees water penetration.

Repairs
Leaks can result from damaged flashing or other roof materials, poor flashing installation, exposed shingle nails and/or poorly trimmed shingles in a roof valley. The problem needs to be corrected immediately, and quick fixes are generally not a good idea. If you happen to see roof membrane used for repairs, caulking, or roof cement during a visual inspection, you’re looking at potential leaks. The owner should be prepared to remove and replace damaged parts, including any already existing water damage. Minor repairs can be often be handled by the property owner, however if the problem is severe and continues to persists, it is always best to contact a professional contractor such as Miami Roof-Tech to resolve the issue for you.

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How Often Can I Pressure Clean My Tile Roof?

The environment in Miami is humid and warm, which supports the growth of algae and moss. Tree sap and dirt are also found on dirty roofs. Far from being solely an aesthetic problem, accumulation of these substances can damage the tiles and underlying membrane. Learn more about keeping your tile roof clean and the threats posed by frequent and overly vigorous cleaning.

Pressure Method
Pressure washing a tile roof requires a few tools and much skill to avoid damage. Even with the humidity in southern Florida, pressure cleaning more often than once every two years is inadvisable. Just like high wind speed and driving rain, even a gentle pressure washing places excess wear and tear on the tiles and roof membrane.

For home owners going it alone, required tools include a ladder, garden hose with brush attachment and pressure washer. Detergent, trisodium phosphate and bleach are all mixed into a bucket of hot water prior to loading the washer reservoir. A gentle washing is preferable, and areas with heavy soiling will need an extra pass.

Allow the mixture to sit on the roof no longer than one hour before using the hose and brush to remove it completely. Finish by washing gutters and spouts out with clean water. Use a barrel or other container to save valuable plants from run-off toxins.

Safety
Two major safety considerations apply in cleaning a tile roof. Tile is extremely slick when wet, so it’s best to wear thick-sole shoes with a deep tread. Depending on the individual’s skill and slope of the roof, a safety harness is also a good idea.

The tile must also be protected. Learn more about walking on a tile roof before making the attempt. A broken tile is an unnecessary expense, and it can lead to costly damage to the membrane.

Alternative Cleaning
Pressure washing is best with non-porous, ceramic tile. A variety of products are available for porous tiles, and these should be followed by application of sealant. It’s better to contact a professional roofer in Miami rather than experimenting yourself on an expensive tile system!

Flat roofs are very common and the majority of commercial buildings normally have a low sloped roofing system as it is a pragmatic option for larger structures. Flat roofs are unfortunately susceptible to a number of problems that can catch a new buyer off-guard and result in major repairs after the purchase. Buyer protection is inspection by a professional Miami roofer experienced in flat roofs.

Common Problems
Flat roofs may be constructed with or without eaves. They may be covered in built-up asphalt, EPDM membrane, or some other material. In any case, every flat roof requires one or preferably many points of egress for water. Without adequate drainage, you can expect leaks to develop quickly starting with roof structures that require flashing, such as skylights, chimneys and vents.

Leaks are the most common problem, and they are usually preceded by clogged drains, standing water, and/or damaged or missing flashing. If there is attic space, it is best to start the examination there for evidence of leaks. Observe the structure during rain and strong storms to understand its drainage. Some types of drainage spouts are easier to clear of debris than others, and this might influence your final decision.

Allowance Versus Reduction
After noticing problems with missing flashing, inadequate drainage or existing leaks, you can decide pass on the building. However, if everything else about it is perfect for your needs, there are options that perspective buyers have if they wish to move forward. The current owner can repair the roof themselves before the building is sold or a credit can be issued to the buyer which effectively reduces your purchase cost and you can higher a contractor to do the work at your own convenience.

It is usually best to seek an allowance from the owner and oversee the work yourself, this way you can be sure the company performing the repairs is qualified and not someone who was hired at the last minute just to push the sale through quickly.. Contract a professional Miami Roofing company such as Roof-Tech that has experience dealing with these issues before buying a building, when properly cared for and maintained, a flat roof can last just as long as any other roofing system.

What Can I Do About Mildew On My Roof?

The tell-tale stains of roof mildew are unmistakable. They appear as black and may streak across all or part of the roof. Mildew is actually a variation of blue-green algae that takes hold in the crevices and granules of the standard shingle roof and tile roof. It has an incubation time of months or longer, which depends on the temperature and humidity. If you spot mildew on your roof, it has been there invisibly growing for some time.

Fortunately, there are simple methods available to remove mildew and prevent its return. Learn about easy treatments and techniques to kill mildew before it takes hold.

Two Steps to Stop Mildew
It’s always best to research methods used by Miami Roofing professionals before spending money on chemicals or a new roof. In most cases, a mildewed roof is easily repaired. A variety of formulas are sold commercially for this purpose, but most professionals still suggest a basic mixture of one part bleach to one part water. Just attach a spray mixer to an outdoor hose, and adjust it to the 50 percent setting. Protect the plants around your home first by watering them and watering again after applying bleach.

Contractors sometimes use specialty chemicals that must be applied and left for some time before rinsing. These may work well, but it’s better to start with an inexpensive solution for do-it-yourself jobs.

Mildew Prevention
Shingles are sometimes sold with built-in protection. Bits of copper are applied in the granules. Copper is highly toxic to blue-green algae, so it will never have a chance to start growing. Each rain will cause tiny amounts of copper to run down the roof and kill all mildew.

If you aren’t ready for a roof replacement, copper is still a big help. The metal is often used for flashing around chimneys and fans. Strips of copper or zinc can be applied near the peak of the roof. Slip them underneath the highest row of shingles for long-lasting protection.

Mildew is an ugly problem. The faster you act, the better. For answers specific to your roof, get in touch with a professional roofer.

Flat Roof Inspections & Maintenance

Flat roofs are very common in South Florida due to there modern appeal and minimalistic aesthetic. However, when not regularly inspected and maintained can suffer from several common problems including bubbling, leaks, ponding water and damage to specific components. However, it’s worth noting that most large problems begin as minor issues. Routine inspections are the key to preventing the escalation of minor problems into the need for expensive repairs and premature replacement.

If caught early, most problems have relatively inexpensive repair options. Professional inspections on a routine schedule ensures that no minor problems escalate into serious structural damage. A tight schedule will often keep a flat roof in great condition for years longer than the manufacturer’s suggested lifespan. Take a closer look at the best inspection practices for a better idea of whether you can do it yourself or should rely on Miami Roofing professionals.

Inspection Basics
Flat roofs should be inspected once year at minimum. The middle of spring and autumn is the best time. Some problems will only be visible after a hard rain, and other problems are best seen when the roof is clear of obstruction. Extreme weather should always be followed by visual inspection.

On a clear day, use a broom to remove any debris from the roof. Look for worn areas, bubbles and blisters, cracks in the roof and open seams. After a rain, the goal is to locate any standing water and identify the cause. Visual inspection of the underside should occur during or just after a rain. In case of leaks, you’ll then inspect the roof in the general location of the leak for damaged or rusted flashing, missing caulking and damaged joints or seams.

Flat Roof Repairs and Maintenance
The most common need with a flat roof is the removal of debris and cleaning of gutters and drains. More so than sloped roofs, the flat variety relies on an unobstructed pathway for fast water drainage. Debris that slow drainage will substantially increase the risk of leaks. Bent or missing drain covers increases the risk of drain obstruction and standing water. If you do notice any areas leaking or severe bubbling, it is best to contact a licensed roofing contractor to attend to the repairs. Spending a small amount while the problem is still rather minor can usually save property owners a lot of money in the long run.

Fast replacement of damaged or missing components, spot repair of ponding areas and regular debris removal from the surface and gutters will keep your roof functioning for years to come.

Roof Replacement Or Continue Repairing

Nobody looks forward to the expense of a new roof. Given the high cost of roofing, it’s understandable that you would rather have your existing roof replaced. While this is an option sometimes, it’s not always the right choice. If you are facing the difficult decision of repairing or replacing your roof, here are a few things to consider.

Planning a Move
Your roof will have to be replaced at some point, but you may not want to go through the hassle if you are planning a move in the near future. You can sell a home with a roof that is nearing the end of its life, but you should be prepared to drop the price of the home to reflect the condition of your roof. However, it will save you spending the money out of pocket, and the new owners can pick something they love instead of living with what you chose. If you are putting the house on the market, then you should probably look at repairing the roof rather than replacing it.

Age of the Roof and Materials
Remember that a roof is a limited life product on your home. At some point, it will have to be replaced. Most asphalt shingle roofs are warranted for 25-40 years because that is how long the roofs are reasonably expected to last. With the heat of Miami, asphalt shingles won’t typically last that long. If your asphalt shingle roof is more than 20 years old, you should strongly consider having it evaluated and thoroughly inspected, a licensed Miami roofing contractor can you tell you reasonable life expectancy your roof has remaining . If the roof is in poor condition, the repairs over the coming years will soon add up to the cost of a new roof, and you will still be facing the expense of ultimately replacing the roofing.

If you have tile or metal roofing, then you may want to invest in repairs. These roofing materials are more durable and valuable than asphalt roofs. Experienced roofing specialists can replace damaged tiles, and even some sections of metal roofing can be repaired by roofing experts in Miami.

Extent of the Damage
Whether you have tile, asphalt or metal, the amount of damage your roof has will help you decide whether you should replace it or repair it. Florida Building Code dictates that roofs with more than 25 percent of the surface damaged must be replaced. However, if your roof does not meet this threshold, then a repair can be an affordable option to full replacement.

There are times when a roof repair is the obvious choice. If your asphalt roof is newer, or you have expensive tiles and only a few are broken, then a repair is the best option. On the other hand, roofs with extensive damage that are more than 20 years old will usually have to be replaced. If you fall into a gray area somewhere in between, then call on the professionals to examine the roof and help you make the decision.

How to properly tarp a roof during emergencies
It is not always possible to repair roof damage in time for a coming storm or other inclement weather. Rather than risk structural damage to the roof supports and other elements, it is best to tarp the roof until a professional contractor is able to make the necessary repairs. Tarps are only an emergency band-aid on roof damage, and further damage will occur without long-term repairs.

Roof tarping requires an understanding of safety first. Injuries during roof repair are common amongst trained professionals, so those without daily experience need to be extra cautious. The first step is enlisting the assistance of a friend or someone with experience. Other precautions include:

- Avoid attempting repairs during inclement weather.
- Do not attempt to stand on a steep roof.
- Do not stand on the tarp, and be very careful about walking on wet shingles.

Step One: Preparing the Materials
After locating a damaged area of the roof, you will need a section of woven plastic tarp long enough to cover the area from peak to eaves. Four 2×4 boards will anchor the tarp lengthwise, and more will be needed to anchor the sides at a maximum of ten inches apart. A staple gun is optional, but 3.25 inch nails are essential for securely anchoring the tarp to the boards.

Step Two: Preparing the Tarp
Each end of the tarp must be fastened to the tarp. Simply roll the board twice in the tarp and staple or nail it. The rolled side should face the roof with a second 2×4 on the external side. Nail the second boards onto both ends with 3.25 inch nails.

Step Three: Placing the Tarp
One end of the tarp with two 2×4 boards should rest along the eaves, and the other end is stretched over the peak. Nail the remaining 2×4 boards along the length of the tarp at intervals no greater than 10 inches. The ends of the tarp can be nailed to the roof as well in case of high winds.

Step Four: After the Emergency
Even the toughest tarp and best tarping job is only a temporary fix. Miami roofing professionals recommend using this fix for a maximum of 90 days. A steeply pitched roof must utilize a set of pulleys and maintain high tension at several locations. This is best accomplished by a professional tarping service.
If you would like to request a quote for any repairs currently being protected by the use of a tarp, feel free to give us a call at Roof-Tech for a free no obligation quote.