Miami Roofing

Many roofs are dark in color, sometimes black. They have a tendency to absorb heat, causing energy bills to soar along with the temperatures. Without protection, Miami roofing materials can degenerate and need replacement, often without any real solutions to help benefit these roofs and extend their lives or help keep costs down.

Elastomeric roof coatings, also known as white or “cool” roof coatings, offer many benefits in today’s tough economy. Saving every possible penny has become the norm in a world where energy efficiency and renewable resources are commonplace language, and efforts are made to keep carbon footprints at a minimum. In the building industry, installing roofs that don’t absorb heat or have other issues are some of the ways to benefit from these types of protective roof coatings.

So, what exactly is an elastomeric roof coating? Basically it is a liquid coating that bonds with the existing roof, creating a strong, flexible and seamless surface that will reflect the sun’s heat back as well as provide excellent protection against the elements. It does this without adding significant weight to the roof. making it an excellent alternative to wasteful roof tear-downs.

When looking at what is involved in using an elastomeric roof coating, it is easy to see the benefits also involved. Energy savings alone make this an excellent way to cut down on cooling bills, especially on buildings and housing exposed to extreme temperatures. While saving a significant amount through the use of this technology is important, there are other ways that this special coating is beneficial.

Flat roofs can be difficult to maintain due to possible water ponding that can lead to more wear and tear as well as opening possibilities for more leaks than normal. An elastomeric roof’s nature promotes water runoff instead of buildup. The roof’s life expectancy is lengthened, ensuring an end to unexpected and costly repairs. Having an elastomeric roof coating ensures easier maintenance. Because this coating can cover almost any type of roof, the possibilities for benefits increase across the board.

It is easy to see the benefits installing elastomeric roof coatings can have on any building whether it be residential or commercial.

Historically, flat building roofs have many problems with standing water. Even properties that have a slight pitch may have problems with ponding water. It can wreak havoc even on the most substantial of roof membranes. Some may feel that there is no cost effective way to solve problems associated with flat roofs. Is this true? Well, the answer is no. Installing a tapered insulation underneath your roofing system will add the needed slope to create positive drainage. Installing tapered roof insulation has several benefits.

If ponding is allowed to continue over an extended period of time it will shorten the life expectancy of a roof membrane. Leakage and the associated damage can be costly. Additionally, if there is substantial standing water this adds a large amount of weight to the roof. Over a period of time this additional weight can cause the sagging, amplifying the problem and leading to possible structural damage. All of this equates to more expense and premature roofing repairs at least, and possible complete roofing system replacement. Other problems associated with ponding are unwanted bacterial growth and potential vegetation growth. Both problems may harm the membrane, again shortening its life.

However, with a properly installed tapered insulation system all of these problems can be avoided. Tapered roof insulation can be obtained in several different pitches to add the needed slope to eliminate any standing water. Thus with no standing water, the associated problems disappear and the life of your Miami roofing system can be significantly extended. Further, with the integrity of the membrane being insured, damage from leaks is greatly reduced providing more potential savings. A side benefit of installing this product is it adds a substantial measure of insulation that will help a building retain its warm or cool temperature. This in turn can relate to telling savings on electricity.

Therefore, tapered roofing insulation can be a real boon to contractors or building owners struggling with problems related to flat roofs. By considering the potential costs of repairing and or replacing a properties roof, you may find that a better solutions is to create positive drainage with a tapered roofing insulation system.

While most residential roof designs are severely slanted and topped with shingle or tile of varying types, some roofs are flat, with only a mild incline that allows water to run off. Older low slope systems often used simply tar with embedded rock, but these sometimes allowed water to pool and designers eventually learned that seamless sheets of solid material is preferable. Sometimes flat roofs are covered in sheets of metal such as tin or copper, but this is very costly. The need for low cost yet effective flat roofing materials has lead to the development of modern materials. Today, there are three basic types of systems most commonly used, these are: BUR, modified bitumen, and single ply polymers.

Asphalt BUR

Asphalt BUR is possibly the most common type of flat roofing material in use today. Similar to tar and gravel of the past, BUR consists of layered asphalt with gravel on top. However, this modern system uses multiple layers of asphalt, with reinforcing ply between, creating a build-up of waterproof layers which is very effective. Gravel is then put on top, usually white gravel, which helps to offset heat.

Modified Bitumen

Also popular is modified bitumen, which is also a tar product, but here the tar has been mixed with additives to help it age better and then applied to sheets of polyester or fiberglass. Modified bitumen comes in large roles which are applied by either heating the bottom layer of the material with a torch or simply painting on an adhesive, then rolling the roofing material out onto the roof. Seems, which are kept to a minimum, are overlapped to prevent water penetration.

Single Ply

Single Ply materials are those where a large, thin sheet of materials is created, then layered on the roof and attached by adhesive or mechanical fasteners. There are three popular single ply roofing materials, EPDM, TPO and PVC.

Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) is a very common single roofing material, which is made mostly of rubber. This material is inexpensive and easy to apply. Historically, EPDM had some problem with moisture penetration due to seams not adhering to each other and condensation in air conditioned buildings. However, new seeming processes and the use of vapor barriers have mitigated these issues. Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO), is another type of single ply which is up to four times stronger than EPDM, thus considered more environmentally friendly and economical. PVC, a type of vinyl, is made of petroleum and salt which is then chemically transformed into a thin sheet. Multiple sheets are adhered together through heat, creating water tight seems. As you can see, there are many types of Miami Roofing products for low sloped roofs, feel free to give us a ring at Roof-Tech anytime if you’d like to learn more about the products discussed in this entry.

Modern Innovation Makes the Traditional Slate Roof Affordable

Few things are more awe inspiring than old world architecture. From castles to cathedrals, our ancestors knew how to build with style, and this sense of beauty often extended to the roofing materials they chose. One of the most attractive options in roofing, then and now, is genuine, natural slate tiles. This naturally created stone is beautiful, unique and amazingly sturdy. In fact, many buildings today have survived literally hundreds of years with their original slate roof. Today, slate still stands above the rest as a roofing material of beauty and longevity. However, it has also been unaffordable for most – until now.

Traditionally Costly

With traditional slate roofs the expense came in materials, installation and building retrofits. Historically, this material was so heavy that it required the Miami roofing support structure to be specially designed or retrofitted to support the exceptional weight of the natural stone. Additionally, since slate itself is so expensive, the materials were quite costly even though about half of the tile was not even visible to the eye due to the overlap. Over the years, companies have developed synthetic slates that were less heavy, but they lacked the true beauty and durability of real earthen slate.

A New Era in Slate Roofing

Now, these problems have been solved and a roofing system has been made affordable with a new product by GAF called TruSlate. This product begins with authentic materials, direct from the quarry and hand-split, per tradition. The slate is then turned into a roofing tile by applying it to a water proof membrane, but the cost savings comes with the unique design. TruSlate uses this high-tech water proof layer in a way that requires less actual material; the slate is placed on the portion of the tile that shows on the rooftop, while the water resistant membrane is placed on the part of the tile that is underneath the previous tile. In this way the weight is reduced by at least half, as is the cost. Furthermore, installation is faster and easier, as the water tight membrane can be fastened down without having to drill through or compromise any actual slate.

The Best of Both Worlds

The unique TruSlate system makes the roofing material so light that most buildings do not require any retrofit to accept this beautiful system. In addition, the installation is fast and the roof is extremely water tight. The end result is a beautiful, authentic slate roof, available in a variety of colors and ready to weather a lifetime.

Repairing or replacing your roof is a very common question and there is not always an automatic answer. We all want to save money, but sometimes spending a little more money now can save you a lot of money in the future. Keeping a building continually protected means maintaining the roof and regularly inspecting it to ensure its structural integrity. Asphalt shingle roofs, the most common type of roofing material, last about 15 to 20 years and sometimes longer before they need to be replaced. Some metal and tile systems can weather upwards of 30 years. Of course roofing life depends on how harsh the conditions are where the building is located – extreme heat and repeated high humidity, such as is common in southeastern Florida, can age a building quickly. But whatever the weather conditions, eventually, every roof will need to be replaced. This need often leaves building owners wondering, “How do I know if it’s time to repair or replace?”

CONSIDER ROOF REPAIR

A damaged roof does not always need to be replaced; In some instances, repair can be an option for minor problems, in a roof that is in otherwise good condition and is not very old. For example, if a storm knocks a large tree branch onto a section of the home, that section can likely be repaired. Perhaps hurricane force winds have loosened some asphalt shingles or broken clay tiles – these too can be replaced. However, if the damage and disrepair is in more than an isolated spot, or if the damage has made its way beyond the roofing layer into the structure, then it may be beyond repair.

WHEN REPLACEMENT IS THE BEST OPTION

Often, the decision to replace is an obvious one. If your home is leaking severely or has shingles that are damaged, missing, warped or severely discolored, then it is probably about that time. Often, a severely deteriorated roof can even have noticeable sag; this means that the wood structure beneath the system has been compromised. In such instances a full reroof is most certainly warranted.

Preventative maintenance on a home or business should also include redoing the miami roofing system when the roof is nearing the end of its anticipated life. Recovering before leaking occurs will prevent moisture from entering the structure, which would otherwise damage the supporting wood and beams. Reroofing before this damage occurs means that you can save yourself from some potentially very serious problems; and will also help ensure that the building and its contents will be continually protected to the fullest extent. Waiting for a roof to leak before replacing it is sort of like waiting for a car to break down before you change the oil, you can do it, but it is not the best way to keep things running smoothly.

For the most part, climbing a roof is a job best left to the professionals. However, sometimes it may be necessary to venture to the top of your home or business to check things out for yourself. When the need arises, whether checking on a leak, tuck pointing your chimney, or simply cleaning your gutters, it is imperative that you exercise caution and following some basic roofing safety.

GETTING ON THE ROOF
When climbing up use the right ladder. Ensure that your ladder is in good condition, has a good safety rating and weight bearing capability, and is tall enough to extend beyond the roof, for safest access to the rooftop. Also, use one that is equipped with gutter guards. These guards keep the your equipment stable, preventing it from falling sideways or swaying with a strong gust of wind. Such guards also prevent damage to the gutters as the ladder lies against the building.

WORKING SPACE
As with most physical jobs, keeping your work space clean is an important step in safety. Ensure that the area you are walking on is free of debris, such as leaves and branches. Avoid walking on a roof when it is wet with rain, dew or frost, or stepping on areas that are covered in algae, moss or other potentially slippery organic growth. Be aware of what tools are scattered about the roof, taking care not to trip over any equipment and to put tools away when they are not in use.

EQUIPMENT
The best way to engage in any rooftop work is to be securely harnessed; this is especially important on very steep rooftops. Proper use of a safety harness allows you to work more quickly, as you can work secure in the knowledge that you are, well, secure. When walking on a roof wear rubber soled shoes or work boots to help prevent slipping. Installing wood braces that function as temporary toe-holds is another great way to help you safely move around the roof. Of course, this is best used when the Miami roofing system is being replaced or repaired, and the toe-holds can be removed and covered over as the work progresses.

STAY FOCUSED ON SAFETY
With just a few simple precautions, and a continuous eye towards safety throughout your rooftop time, roof work can be safe. Use the right equipment, keep the roof surface free of dangerous obstructions, and take your time moving about, and your roofing inspection or repair can get done fast and safely.

Across the United States each summer millions of home owners watch in horror as organic materials such as algae, mold, lichen and moss make their home amidst the shingle edges of their roofs. Such growth is most common in areas with warm and humid summers, particularly throughout the southeastern U.S., including Miami. The effects of these growing colonies look terrible and can harm the integrity of your South Florida roofing system by trapping water around the shingle edges, leading to increased deterioration and a shorter roof life.

Moss, in particular, is damaging because its roots actually get under the shingle, not only trapping moisture, but propping up edges and allowing moisture to penetrate to the wood, causing rot beneath as well. Removing it and preventing future growth is paramount in maintaining an effective, long lasting and attractive home.

Removing Organic Growth

Organic, living colonies of algae, mold, lichen and moss require little to sustain them; they need only humidity, warmth and a crevice of some sort in which to grab a foothold. Along the edges of various roofing materials, including asphalt, clay, ceramic and wood, exists the perfect, cozy spot for these organics to grow – this makes your roof an attractive place to put down roots. Once there, these colonies trap rainwater and dirt, holding them against your shingles, causing unsightly stains and potential damage. The good news is, removing and preventing it is relatively easy.

Removing moss is fairly simple, just use a firm bristled brush to push down the slope of your roof, forcing the moss’ short root system to dislodge and pushing the it off. Be sure to never sweep up the roof, as this could dislodge the shingle.

To remove algae, lichen and mold it is necessary to wash the roof with a cleaning solution. While many people use a mixture of bleach and water, and this is effective, it can also remove the color from your roofing material and damage vegetation around the building. Using an actual roof cleaning product is the best choice; to clean most effectively choose a somewhat overcast, cool day. Then, simply spray the cleaner all over the growing areas, allowing it to sit for about 20 minutes. Lightly scrub the surface, removing any traces. Finally, rinse with clean water or more cleanser.

Preventing Future Problems

Preventing future problems is relatively easy as well, though it requires a bit more skill. The best way to prevent organic growth is to introduce metal; materials such as zinc and copper inhibit mold, moss, lichen and algae. A good way to do this is to purchase copper or zinc flashing, and then install strips along the shingle edges, particularly along the roofs peak or as flashing along the chimney. When it rains, metal particles will flow downward, inhibiting further unwanted development.

Once you have removed all organic growth inspect your tile or shingle to ensure that they are well intact and in good condition. If the moss was very heavy or there for a long time some material may lose their granules and require replacement. Remember also that cleaning up there can be quite dangerous, as wet algae can be as slippery as ice. If you are at all uncomfortable with walking on your roof, contact a roofing professional to do the cleaning. They can do a comprehensive inspection for any damage caused by these substances, and make repairs before the damage becomes worse.

We all know that home owner’s insurance premiums are exceedingly high in Florida, especially if you live near the water. What many Floridians do not know is that one little piece of paper can save you hundreds, even thousands of dollars off of your home owners policy. Florida law requires that all statewide insurance companies provide discounts for various building upgrades and conditions in a home. To qualify for these savings all you need to do is have a qualified inspector conduct a wind mitigation inspection of your home.

What the Inspection Looks For

You may be thinking that this sounds great, but you never installed hurricane clips or functioning shutters. Well, that is ok – you don’t have to. A wind mitigation inspection looks at a number of features on your home, many that your builder may have done without you ever knowing. For example, if your builder used a certain quality of nail, called a six-penny nail, which is common to roof construction, then you have a discount. Certain roof designs provide a discount. Many other features that your home very well may have can provide the same savings. The inspection looks at many areas of the building construction, water proofing, Miami roofing and windows.

This can impact any property owner and homes of any age. Newer homes built after 2002 probably have most of the features that are required, yet likely are being charged higher rates without having this inspection report on file. Older homes often have even better opportunities to take advantage of this. Often, home insurance companies look at the year that a home was built and then assume that every structure in the home (including the roof and windows) has never been updated since building. The wind mitigation analysis tells the insurer of any changes that have been made, and forces them to offer rate cuts based on those updates.

Getting the Inspection

Any licensed builder can sign for this inspection. Most often people and companies who perform traditional home inspections also perform wind mitigation services. Prices for this can range from $100 to $400, so shop around. Many company’s will offer a guarantee that they will save you on insurance premiums in one year at least double what you pay them for the report- you can’t go wrong!

Making It Count

Once you have your completed report, you simply take it over to your home owner’s insurance agent. They will then file it, and within a couple of weeks you will receive a new policy with your lower premium and refund check. Smaller inland houses usually save $600 or more per year; waterfront and hurricane zone homes can save thousands per year. So take a few moments now, and see about getting a wind mitigation inspection on your home today.

Heating and cooling accounts for half of your home’s energy use. That means that money spent making your home more energy efficient is money well spent. Now, the government is trying to help you save even more money, by providing tax incentives for upgrading some of your home’s weather fighting systems, including installation of various roofing systems.

Reflective Roof Coatings

Energy Star rated roofing materials, which have reflective coatings to reduce heat build-up, can save you up to 15% on home cooling costs during the warmest months. These coatings are available on metal roofs and as pigmented granules applied to asphalt roofs. Such coatings are found in modified bitumen roofing, which is the rolled asphalt roofing commonly used on flat roofs, as well as asphalt shingles. There are approximately 100 types of these coated shingles and rolled roofing on the Energy Start list that qualify for tax incentives. To receive the tax rebate, ask your contractor to recommend the appropriate roof, and to provide you with a Manufacturer’s Certification Statement to verify that your roof meets the requirements.

Metal Roofing

Metal roofs offer excellent heat reflection and longevity, as well as significant tax savings. When installed throughout 2009/2010, you can claim a tax rebate for up to thirty percent of the cost of materials (note labor costs are not deductible), up to $1500. The material used must be pigmented coatings that deflect sunlight; these roofs are an exceptional choice in warm, sunny climates. To qualify for this rebate, the roofing material must be Energy Star Rated, and you must receive a Manufacturer’s Certification Statement that verifies the roof quality.

Green Roofing

Planting a green roof, also called a garden roof, is a beautiful, environmentally friendly option. They are extremely effective for keeping a home cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Numerous cities and states have passed roofing incentive tax laws, though none yet apply to Miami roofing residents. In late 2009 a bill was introduced to the U.S. congress to provide tax incentives for green roof installations, but the bill is still in process. So, while no incentive exists for that green roof of your dreams yet, stay tuned; it is likely on the way. Or better yet, write your representative and ask them to support such a bill, for state and federal incentives.

Solar Panels

In an effort to encourage green energy practices, the government is providing a tax incentive on newly installed solar water heating and solar energy panels. This rebate allows you to recoup up to thirty percent of the parts and labor for installing a new solar system on your home. All Energy Star compliant solar heating systems count towards this tax break, and there is no upward limit to how much you can save. So go crazy, solarize your home, and let the government pick up huge portion of the tab.

One of the most common questions we are asked is if one can roof of there current roofing system. While it may save you a few dollars in the beginning, many times this is not always the best options for the longevity of your home. A roof is made of multiple layers. First, there is plywood laid on top of the roof joists, then roofing felts, followed by either shingle or tile or layered asphalt and tar (for some flat roofs). There is also flashing and caulking, which seals edges around areas such as the chimney and roof vents. Eventually, these various points in the system can begin to fail. Flashing can come loose or the shingles can begin to degrade, allowing water to penetrate under the shingles, under the roofing felt, and eventually causing rot and damage to the plywood, even the joists. Leaks of various degree can occur as a result of any of these compromised areas.

Sometimes, problems like these are isolated to only a small section of the roof, and can be repaired. Other times, the entire roof needs to be redone. This leads many building owners to wonder if simply adding more roofing material (new shingles, more asphalt and tar, or metal roofing) on top of their existing roof is a viable option.

Usually, building codes allow for up to two layers of shingles. Certainly, overlaying new roofing over a previous layer reduces labor and disposal costs, and is faster. This is an option, but only if the roof is being replaced as a precautionary measure, due to roof age. If the roof already has leaks, spongy areas, or flashing issues, then recovering with a new layer will only temporarily bandage these problems, leaving them to recur in the near future. In fact, many roofing professionals believe that recovering an existing roof, even one in good shape, decreases the life expectancy of the new shingles by up to twenty percent.

When a new roof is needed, the best option is to tear off the old system before installing a new one. This allows the miami roofing contractor to inspect the roof structure thoroughly, replacing known, as well as hidden damage such as rotten wood and truss work. As with most things in life, a roof is only as good as its foundation. To get the most for the money, it is best to tear off and start anew; you can then rest sure in the knowledge that your roof is in good shape, top to bottom, and ready to protect your building for the next 10, 20, even 30 years.