Roofing Performance Factors
There are a variety of factors that impact a roof’s performance. The life of a roofing system varies from its initial design and construction to the environment it faces and maintenance received.
Roofing Systems are comprised of many materials that when properly constructed add value and protection for your home. The common materials needed include: sheathing/decking; flashing; underlayment; ice and water protective barriers; ridge vents; ridge shingles, and other venting.
Effects on Roof’s Performance (Incorporate the photos currently in use and add new images for new points)
Lack of maintenance: Often the greatest cause of premature roof problems is not finding and correcting minor roof issues in the early stages, especially for relatively low-sloped roofs.
Improper design: Inadequate roof slope, sagging, structures that excessively draw away under the load, inadequate draining and provision for expansion and contraction in decking material contribute to the roofing membrane weakening and splitting. Design deficiencies often can be corrected when identified with a roof replacement.
Hail: The impact of hail can loosen, fracture or remove granules from your asphalt shingles. The granules protect the asphalt matting of your shingles from sunlight and ultra violet light (U.V.). The asphalt will deteriorate very quickly once exposed to the sun. This is the reason a hail-damaged roof will prematurely fail. Hail-damaged roofs may or may not be detected by the inexperienced observer. The results of a hailstorm will void the shingles manufacturer’s warranty, as they cannot warranty against “Acts of God” such as hailstorms.
Sun: Heat and ultraviolet rays cause roofing materials to deteriorate over time. Deterioration can occur faster on the sides facing west or south.
Rain: When water gets underneath shingles, shakes or other roofing materials, it can work its way to the roof deck and cause the roof structure to rot. Extra moisture encourages mildew and rot elsewhere in a house, including walls, ceilings, insulation and electrical systems.
Wind: High winds can lift shingles’ edges (or other roofing materials) and force water and debris underneath them. Extremely high winds can cause extensive damage. Wind damage creates a partial vacuum from wind blowing over the edge of the roof. The low-pressure area tries to neutralize itself by bringing in air from a higher pressure area, typically from inside the building. Air pushing up on the bottom of the roof will loosen fasteners and break the roofing adhesion over time, which makes the roof susceptible to damage in the future. Quality roofing construction counteracts the effects of wind-uplift forces.
Snow and ice: Melting snow often refreezes at a roof’s overhang where the surface is cooler, forming an ice dam. This blocks proper drainage into the gutter. Water backs up under the shingles (or other roofing materials) and seeps into the interior. During the early melt stages, gutters and downspouts can be the first to fill with ice and may be damaged beyond repair.
Condensation: Condensation can result from the build-up of relatively warm, moisture-laden air. Moisture in a poorly ventilated attic promotes decay of wood sheathing and rafters, possibly destroying a roof structure. Sufficient attic ventilation can be achieved by installing larger or additional vents and will help alleviate problems because the attic air temperature will be closer to the outside air temperature.
Moss and algae: Moss can grow on moist wood shingles and shakes. Once it grows, moss holds even more moisture to a roof system’s surface, causing rot. In addition, moss roots also can work their way into a wood deck and structure. Algae also grow in damp, shaded areas on wood or asphalt shingle roof systems. Besides creating a black-green stain, algae can retain moisture, causing rot and deterioration. Trees and bushes should be trimmed away from homes and buildings to eliminate damp, shaded areas, and gutters should be kept clean to ensure good drainage.
Trees and leaves: Tree branches touching a roof will scratch and gouge roofing materials when the branches are blown by the wind. Falling branches from overhanging trees can damage, or even puncture, shingles and other roofing materials. Leaves on a roof system’s surface retain moisture and cause rot, and leaves in the gutters block drainage.
Missing or torn shingles: The key to a roof system’s effectiveness is complete protection. When shingles are missing or torn off, a roof structure and home or building interior are vulnerable to water damage and rot. The problem is likely to spread, as well as allowing nearby shingles to rip easily and/or blow away. Missing or torn shingles should be replaced as soon as possible.
Shingle deterioration: When shingles are old and worn out, they curl, split and lose their waterproofing effectiveness. Weakened shingles easily are blown off, torn or lifted by wind gusts. The end result is structural rot and interior damage. A deteriorated roof system only gets worse with time. It should be replaced as soon as possible.
Flashing deterioration: Many apparent roof leaks really are flashing leaks. Without good, tight flashings around chimneys, vents, skylights and wall/roof junctions, water can enter a home or building and cause damage to walls, ceilings, insulation and electrical systems. Flashings should be checked as part of a biannual roof inspection and gutter cleaning.
Asphalt shingle construction: When asphalt shingles have been exposed to a hailstorm severe enough to dislodge granules from the surface of the shingles (in spots large enough to expose the asphalt), the roof has been compromised. The colored granules which are placed on the surface of the shingle provide an aesthetically pleasing product and protect the underlying asphalt from exposure to the sun. Prolonged exposure to sun causes asphalt to deteriorate. This is why hail-damaged roof will tend to fail prematurely.
Heavy hail damage is obvious because of the indentations in the shingle. When the surface damage of the shingle is not visible, look for indentations on vents, ridge vents, siding, or any other softer metal objects that may show impact. The effects on the shingle may not be apparent for about a year. At this time, circular areas of granules will fall off the shingle. This is often called spalling. What has occurred is that the impact of the hailstone has broken or weakened the bond between the granules and the asphalt. After a year or so of weathering, the granules fall off the shingle in the circular area of impact. With granules missing, the sunlight (UV) quickly attacks the asphalt and the maximum performance of the shingle has been compromised. The results of a hailstorm will void the shingles manufacturer’s warrant, as they cannot warranty against “Acts of God” such as hailstorms.
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Roofing Contractors Houston, TX
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American Roofing & Siding Houston
At the heart of the Houston boroughs, has had, and will always have, its own, distinct character of toughness mixed with an artistic sensibility. Our company is known for our cultural diversity and entrepreneurship. It is these things that make us quintessentially American, and thoroughly “Houston.” We like to think that those are the characters that our contractors embodies too. Toughness, craftsmanship, and good business sense. We are the residential and commercial exterior contractor to turn to in Harris County for fair and Houston and exterior contracting services.
American Roofing & Siding 9519 Eblen DR Houston, TX 77040
Roof Repair & Siding:
- American Roof’s Renovators are the roofing contractors to turn to for any type of exterior problem.
- We do flat roof layovers, tear-offs, new installations and repairs.
- Pitched roofs can be repaired, replaced or installed as well.
- Besides flat roofs, we do asphalt, clay and slate shingles and can even repair the chimney while we are up there.
- We use quality materials such as GAF shingles.
- We handle small and large projects, residential and commercial.
- We offer free, no-obligation estimates for you, and always work within your stated budget.
Windows:
- Replacing old, leaky windows with new, energy-efficient windows can make a substantial difference to your energy bills.
- Keep our home warm in the winter and cool in the summer with quality window installs from American Roof & Siding renovators
- All of our window installer workers are trained by American Architectural Manufacturers Association.
Custom/Seamless Gutters, Cleaning & Maintenance:
- Gutters work to keep moisture away from your foundation and secure the integrity of your home.
- Making sure your gutters are well maintained keeps your house safe.
- Good gutter maintenance can also help avoid ice dams during the winter months which can damage to roofs.
- Our gutter installations are done at the highest level of quality.
- We install seamless gutters with nearly invisible fasteners.
Brickwork and Cement:
- Texas wet and cold winters deliver a blow to cement and brick work.
- Any moisture that can get into small cracks will freeze and expand, turning fine cracks into big cracks that can lead to deterioration of brickwork and large, dangerous cracks in sidewalks.
- American Roof ^& Siding Renovators repairs all manner of brickwork, from house walls to chimneys.
- We repair and replace cement sidewalks and driveway too.
- Keep passerby safe and yourself clear of liability with the good upkeep of sidewalks.
Other Exterior Services:
- There are parts of the exterior of your house that you don’t give much thought until something goes wrong.
- The fascia and the flashing are two such areas.
- The fascia is the horizontal part of the roof that is under the eaves.
- The flashing is the metal trim work of the roofing that is often the victim of windy weather.
- Repairing and replacing stucco exterior of walls is yet another service we offer.
Besides handling all the exterior services your house could need, we are the choice because of your other qualities as well. We are budget minded, not stuffing a hard sell down your throat. No, we respect your budget and know you need to keep to it. We emphasize customer service from our first contact through the free estimate stage to the completion of the job. Call American Roof & Siding Renovators, ’Columbus Top Rated Local® Roofing Contractor. From American Roof & Siding.
Flat roof install in Deer Park- Houston
Flat Roof Install
The exterior maintenance and renovation company to turn to for roofing, gutters, siding, and many other exterior services. We specialize in roofing and do installations, tear offs, layovers, and shingled roofs. In American Roof you will find a company that exemplifies great customer service and commitment to providing quality work for the people of Houston.
As you can see from our involvement in the litter removal project that we are committed to the community and to the people of Houston City and the Long Island Counties that we serve. We are committed to offering quality roofing to protect your investments, your homes, and your businesses.
Flat Roofing Challenges
One place we know that quality is of the utmost importance is on the installation of flat roofs. Flat roofing has challenges that pitched, shingle roofs do not. Because of this, extra care is needed in certain aspects of this type of roofing. We will look at a few of those challenges now.
- Pitched roofs have gravity to help the water flow down the roof and into the gutters. Flat roofs have to deal with the potential of water pooling on the surface, and if the roofing material is not sealed properly, leaking through to the under layers and even into the living or commercial space in the building. To ensure this doesn’t happen, flat roofs can’t be actually flat. A slight slope must be maintained to ensure the flow of water to the drains and gutters.
- The most common place for leaks to occur on a flat roof is the connecting points. These points are where the roofing material meets ends at the edges of roof, at the chimney, and around all the other elements that can be found on a roof, such as skylights.
- If the plywood has sustained water damage, it can lead to a failure of the roof. The last thing you need is a roof that gives way when it is walked on or collapses under a heavy, wet New York snow. That’s why we replace the plywood substrate when it is called for when working on a roof, whether it is flat or pitched.
We know that a quality job is worth the extra time it takes to complete. Sure, you might be able to find a less expensive quote if you look long enough, but we know that our prices are fair given the high quality of work that we guarantee. When you hire Royal Renovators, you’ll be getting a team of roofers dedicated to the highest level of customer service and craftsmanship that will ensure that your flat roof lasts and performs.
FAQ
1. How Long Will My Roof Last in Houston?
The life expectancy of a roof in Houston can vary on a few factors, but a fair estimate would be 20-30 years depending on the material. This is typical for shingle and flat roofing which are most common in our area. Experienced Houston roofers can provide accurate estimates based on the area standards.
2. Does the old roof need to be removed before installing the new one?
It is suggested to first remove your previous roof before applying the new one. There are benefits even if from an outside view it might not seem necessary. Firstly, the rotting or damaged spots under the outer and inner layers can be identified and replaced. This saves much more cost, time and effort in the future when a repair is necessary.
3. What roof type is most appropriate for my budget?
Shingles and flat roofs are the most economical roofing options in the Houston area. The initial cost for flat roofs can be less but maintenance and water drainage needs to be planned properly for the future. Shingles are easier in the long run yet still have low initial costs but will need repair and placements as time passes.
4. Does my location impact roofing options?
In areas like Houston where we receive all seasons and elements, it is very important to have high-quality roofs. Qualified roofers should be able to determine what is needed regarding sealant, materials, and quality.
5. How do I know when my roof needs to be repaired?
A damaged roof cannot always be easy to spot and an experienced roofing company will know exactly what to look for. But homeowners should be aware of missing or damaged shingles, water or snow buildup, or any leaks or discoloration.
6. How long does a roof repair take?
Roof repairs depend on the size and material of the roof. Usually, 1-2 days can be expected, one to remove the old roof and prepare an application, and the second day to install the new roof and then clean up. An experienced crew can usually accomplish this in one day.
7. What time of the year can a roof be replaced?
In the summer the natural heat can be relied upon to help sealants and glues dry, but in the winter completion time can be slightly slower since this must be done manually. Don’t hesitate to ask your roofing contractor for advice regarding the best times.
8. Will a new roof lower my energy bill?
Absolutely, a new roof can lower energy bills. This occurs because a new modern roof utilizes better insulation and materials which insulate the inside of the house. The roof and shingle color also play an important role in deflecting outside heat and sunshine which normally gets trapped inside the roof. Lastly, proper ventilation prevents excessive heat build-up and allows for fresh air to circulate in, which also extends the life of the roof. For a Roofing Contractor near Houston Texas Call: 832=329-0469