Corona Virus and Roof Leaks

It’s been a scary few weeks with all the hype and publicity of the Corona Virus disease or by the scientific name COVID-19. Scared folks are clearing shelves of toilet paper, water, rice, etc., worrying about a potential pandemic.

Coronavirus can affect your upper respiratory tract (sinuses, nose, and throat). Early symptoms are much like those of the common cold. The risk probably reflects the strength, or weakness, of a person’s respiratory system. Now I’m no doctor nor do I claim to be, but it appears that the Coronavirus affects those most with preexisting upper respiratory issues.

But what does the Coronavirus have to do with roof leaks?

Dampness and mold have been shown to be associated with a variety of adverse respiratory health effects, including respiratory tract infections. Dampness and mold are caused by excess moisture. Moisture in homes or commercial buildings can be caused by rain seeping in from a roof leak. Mold growth occurs when enough moisture builds up from the roof leak or other source. Mold can spread throughout the home or building structure, it can even affect your HVAC system. So, in short, roof leaks can cause mold if not taken care of and this can be a large risk to those that are susceptible to respiratory  illness.

We have had a lot of rain of the last week or so here in Phoenix and I’m sure roofing contractors are being flooded with calls about roof leaks. Since it doesn’t rain a lot in the Valley of the Sun compared to other metro areas, many property owners procrastinate repairing roof leaks. Roof leaks can develop for several reasons, wind or storm damage, lack of maintenance or your roof is just old and needs to be replaced.

To avoid damage to your property or any health risk you should have your roof leak inspected and taken care of by a licensed Phoenix roofing contractor.  For more information visit www.TRMroofing.com

 

 

Considering Solar? Be Roof Smart First!

If you are considering installing solar on your roof you gotta be Roof Smart!

The first thing to remember is, solar companies hire salespeople. In general, salespeople DO NOT like anything that can make a sale go south. When you first start talking to solar companies you will be talking to a salesperson and not the person who is configuring and installing your rooftop solar system. The number one goal to a solar salesperson is to sell a solar array, all the other “stuff” like the condition of your roof, which direction it faces, aesthetics, roof load factor, etc. can only screw up a sale.

Before you even talk to a solar company you need to ask yourself these questions:

How old is my roof? Is my roof currently damaged, old, deteriorated or in just bad condition? If you answered “yes” to any of these questions. It’s probably better to replace your roof first before installing a solar system. If you install a solar on your roof that should have been replaced, then when you do develop leaks and have to replace your roof, now there may be extra thousands of added costs of removing and reinstalling the solar panels.

Here are a few roof guidelines when it comes to installing a solar system:

Concrete Tile RoofsConcrete tile roof systems usually have a single layer of 30# or 40# underlayment and last anywhere from 18-25 years.  Your tile will last a lifetime but your underlayment won’t. So if you have a 15-18-year-old tile roof you may want to have the underlayment replaced on the roof field where the solar panels are going to be installed. Later you can do the rest of the roof. Many solar companies can wrap the cost of the new roof into your lease program and you may even qualify for tax credits for the whole amount.

Clay or Sand Cast Tile Roofs:   These can be a bit trickier and much more expensive.  What TRM Roofing of Phoenix has developed is removing the tile where the solar panels are going and installing a new dimensional shingle roof system. Once the solar panels are installed, we come back and install the tiles over the shingles and just under the solar panels, looks like the solar panels are embedded in the tiles and they look sharp!!

Flat Roofs: If you have an older home with a rolled roofing like modified bitumen or even a built-up it is best to have your roof either replaced with foam or if the roof is in decent shape install a cool roof liquid membrane over the existing rolled roofing. If you have an older foam roof those can easily be restored.  You should ask your solar installer to make sure that each anchor is encapsulated with trowel grade silicone. This will be bulletproof!

Asphalt Shingle Roofs: If you have a shingle roof that is 20 years or older you should make sure that it’s good condition, no fiberglass showing, or severe granular loss or any type of hail or storm damage. If you have a 3-tab asphalt shingle that is 10 years or older, replace it.

So when it comes to installing solar on your roof, be roof smart! Another thing to consider is trusting your solar contractor.  Remember choosing a solar company or roofing contractor is like getting married it’s a long-term contract. If you are interested in solar call Solar Sandy and see if you can become part of her Solar Family. If you have questions about your roof visit: www.TRMroofing.com

 

EPDM Roof Coatings for Commercial Roofs

EPDM Roofs and Conklin Roof Coatings

If you are new to roofing industry chances are you heard of EPDM roofing systems but never understood what the hype about it is. Stick with us and in this article, Conklin Roof Contractors will explain why more and more business owners are deciding for EPDM as their commercial roofing solution!

EPDM is short for Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer, you probably will forget the full name, but it is essential to know that EPDM is a chemical compound that has taken the industry by storm. Especially commercial roofing industry! EPDM is usually applied to a flat roof or a low slope roofing system. It creates broad and thin sheets that are bound once they are placed by a unique adhesive. EPDM works best on lower slopes, and they represent a durable roofing solution.

What is the fuss about the EPDM roofing system?

First of all, EPDM is easy to install, and it also requires low maintenance. Therefore, it is a perfect upgrade to any roof: as it combines affordability, easy installation and requires very little care. The fact that it is not difficult to install is also why it represents way less injury risks for our roofers which allows us at Conklin Roof Contractors to be flexible at doing our job and do it the best possible way.

EPDMs are highly resistant and durable option. Therefore, they provide your roof with more strength and work as another protective layer. Owner located in harsher weather conditions usually go for EPDM because of its durability. No matter if you live in extremely hot or icy areas you can rest knowing you are getting the best of EPDM. Even if you live in an unstable and constantly changing climate, you don’t have to worry because this roofing material can withstand these climate changes.

Restoring your EPDM roof in Phoenix

No matter how strong EPDM roofs are, they can still use some reinforcement and improvement. Over time, they might lose some of their resistance properties, so the optimal way to prevent this is by applying high-quality coatings. Most of the time owners decide to use acrylic coatings, rubber coatings, urethane or elastomeric coatings. Acrylic coating, for instance, take on the texture and look of initial roofing material and they usually take about ten coats to be effective. Rubber coating, on the other hand, represent ultimate protection from water penetration. Coatings help the roof to avoid roof leaks” and make it more resistant overall as coatings renew your EPDM roof.

Conklin Roof Coatings EPDM System can significantly contribute to extending the lifespan of your roof. Coatings are highly efficient and affordable way of solving problems with your EPDM roof and avoiding overall tear off. However, these elastomeric coatings bring more than just a roof upgrade. They have the power to affect your entire property.

Also, this coating will play an important role in prolonging the time between the next reroofing. You will not have to invest in a costly roof tear-off but in a brand new, affordable roofing solution. People mostly decide for elastomeric coatings because of their energy efficient properties. Let our team of professional Commercial roofers help you if your commercial roof. Conklin Roof coatings are rated Energy-star, which means they save energy and power making your property overall more efficient. This coat can naturally cool your office or space and reduce the need for using air conditioning. Thanks to the white top coat, instead of absorbing, efficient elastomeric coating reflects a huge amount of heat and results in 30 % lower costs for air conditioning bills.

Give it a thought 

No matter which coating you decide to choose, ensure you pick the right contractor to apply it. Picking a high quality and proper coatings is the first step, however, finding a high-quality contractor to do the job is a decisive moment.

So You Have A Roof Leak

Phoenix Roof Repair

You have three options when you have a roof leak

1: You can ignore the leak and pretend it’s not going to get worst

2: You can try the handy man approach and try to patch it cheap.

3: Or you can call a professional Phoenix roofing contractor who can provide you a complete analysis of your roof’s condition and offer professional solutions which may include, roof maintenance, roof repair, or roof restoration.

Making smart roofing decisions can reduce the long and short-term costs associated with your roof. There are several good choices when it comes to extending the life of your roof. A professional roofing contractor can provide cost effective roofing solutions that can extend your roof’s life.

Phoenix Roof Repair and Maintenance

Most roof systems have common characteristics that make most roofs vulnerable as your Phoenix roof ages.

Flat roofs: Seam lifting and separations, gapping at penetrations, drain issues and of course roof ponding areas. This can lead to roof leaks and eventually deterioration to you decking.

Tile Roofs: After 17-20 years the underlayment is deteriorating curling at laps, Gapping at penetrations, broken and cracked tiles and of course missing tiles. This can lead to roof leaks and eventually deterioration to you decking.

Foam Roofs: Simple the deterioration of the protective elastomeric coating and this can lead to roof leaks and eventually deterioration to you decking.

The TRM Roofing Solution is simple.

Do Something! The worst thing you can do is ignore your roof leak. Have your roof inspected, perform roof maintenance, have your roof repaired professionally until full replacement is within your budget. For more information visit: www.CostEffectiveRoofing.com and know the truth about your roof.

Phoenix Haboob, Monsoon rains and your Roof

Phoenix Roof Repair and Our Monsoon Season

Monsoon Dangers to My Roof.

Did you know that Monsoon season starts in the middle of June and ends in September? But, did you know with the continuing threat of rain and wind can affect Phoenix roofer’s ability to re-roof or repair your roof. Our monsoon season can also be dangerous to your roof.

The word Haboob comes from the Arabic word, “Strong wind”. When I was stationed in Saudi Arabia during the First Gulf War Haboobs were common, coming back home to Phoenix, many times the larger Haboobs remind me of my tour of duty in Saudi Arabia.

Haboobs form after a good Phoenix Monsoon storm. Rain cooled air from the monsoon plunges to the desert surface at speeds of up 100 miles per hour. These strong winds kick up our desert dry and loose sand, causing the Haboob or large dust storms.

Dangers to your Roof

These strong winds can affect your Phoenix roof. It can blow of shingles, loosely installed tiles and even affect your air conditioners.   These sudden and strong winds can cause your shingles or roof tiles to lift up or even blow off. It allows debris to move quickly and clog scuppers or roof drains on flat roofs. Trees and their branches can easily damage your roof.  The monsoon season have the potential to cause serious damage to your roof.

If you own a commercial or residential flat roof our heavy monsoon rains can cause serious issues. Our roofs get over whelmed with the sudden and large mount of water. If your in-roof drains or scuppers are blocked by debris this large amount foo water may be impeded by the debris. This puts stress on your roofing structure and not only cause serious leaks but also can cause roof collapses.

Why roof Inspections.

It is always wise to have your roof inspected before monsoon season and especially after a storm. Being proactive is always “Roof-Smart”.   Contacting a certified NRCIA (National Roof Certification and Inspection Association) roof inspector can put your “contractorphobia” at ease. For more information about roofing or roof inspection visit www.CostEffectiveroofing.com.

Will my Homeowners Insurance Cover a Roof Leak?

First, let’s get the insurance question out of the way: Will my homeowner’s insurance cover my roof leak?

Since Arizona is not subject to annual hail or storms like Texas, Oklahoma or Kansas, most Arizona property owners have little knowledge of what is covered by their insurance.  Many are under the impression that their insurance will cover roof repair or roof replacement.

Obviously, insurance policies differ between insurance companies, types of coverage, and individual states’ laws. Every homeowner should understand what their Insurance actually covers.

Homeowner’s Insurance covers roof damage not neglect.

There are two basic coverage’s on your policy that you should be aware of in your homeowner’s policy.

Actual Cash Value (ACV)
Actual Cash Value (ACV) is computed by subtracting depreciation, which is based on age and condition of your roof– from the roof replacement cost.
Replacement cost is another method of valuation. An example would be as follows: You purchased a new roof in 1990 for $6000. The
replacement cost of that roof’s value in today’s market is $10,000. Actual Cash Value (ACV) insurance would only pay the Actual Cash Value of your roof at the time of loss. The ACV would be the replacement cost (at today’s prices), less depreciation. In this example, the insurance company may pay an
estimated cost of $4,500 for your new roof less your deductible.

Replacement Cost Value (RCV)
Replacement Cost Value (RCV) is the amount that an insurance
company would pay, at the present time, to replace your roof. In the example above, the roof replacement cost is $10,000. The insurance company would pay out the value of the roof in today’s market of $10,000, less your deductible. Most likely, you have Replacement Cost Value type coverage; which entitles you to have your roof replaced with like kind and quality when it is of equal or better condition then it was before the damage occurred.

For more information about insurance and your roof visit: www.TRMroofing.com

 

Roof Repair or Roof Replacement???

Phoenix Roof Repair

roof repair

TILE, SHINGLE, FLAT, FOAM it doesn’t matter most Phoenix roofers will tell you, “It’s time to remove the old roof and install a new one”  One of the biggest fears is really knowing if your roof can be repaired or if you have to replace it. There will come a time when you have to decide what to do about your roof, it may be looking a little deteriorated and may have some leaks. Most individuals dread this decision and put it off a much as they can, “out of sight, out of mind”, sometimes until they have no other choice and they have roof failure.  At this point most property owners are fearful of calling a roofing contractor.

 

By that time costly damages may have occurred and roof replacement is the only option. A timely roof repair or even a maintenance program would have protected the building. The extent of the roofing problems and the age of the roof are major factors that can help you decide on what course of action to take.

 

Can I repair my roof?

The last thing you want to hear when it’s raining is “You Need A New Roof”! Lets face it; most people don’t want to spend capital expenses on a new roof, especially if you can get more years out of your existing one. Getting a roofing contractor to show up is difficult enough, let alone getting three bids on a new roof, then choosing the right contractor. Wouldn’t it be better to really know what the condition of your roof is and what your options are?

Learn to be ROOF SMART: When it comes to  real estate, roof issues are usually ignored, until they leak. If you are having roofing issues, problems, leaks, etc. After calling your favorite roofing contractor call a roofing contractor that specializes in roof inspections and knows how to provide a written roof report with OPTIONS…. Know what is going on, know your options about your roof prior to taking the word of a hungry roofer or slick roofing sales guy.

For more information visit: www.CostEffectiveRoofing.com

Roof Inspections Verses a Free Roof Estimate

 Roof Inspection
Phoenix Roof Inspections and roof repair

So what’s the difference between a roof inspection and a free roof estimate?

If you have a roof leak you need to ask yourself this question; Do you need an estimate for a new roof or do you need a real roof inspection? That of course depends on your knowledge of your particular roof. If you know your roof is old, tired and it leaks, roof replacement may be your only option, then call three roofers and get three different free estimates for a new roof.

But on the other hand, if you want to know the condition of your roof, what actually needs to be done to repair or restore your roof, you may want to look at getting a roof inspection.  So this season, “Get the Truth About Your Roof” and not just a free estimate for a new roof.

There are hundreds of Phoenix roofers advertising FREE Roof Inspections… but to be quite honest, in most cases they’re sending out roofing “sales guys” or roofing “estimators” to give you an estimate on a new roof.  Many times these roofing estimators are simple roofing sales guys trying to sell a new roof. Be careful when searching Google for your roofing contractor.

Real Roof Inspections

Monsoon season is right around the corner, now is the time to have your roof inspected by a NRCIA Certified Roof Inspector and not a roofing sales guy. When you are looking for a Phoenix roofing contractor ask them if their roofing estimators are actually certified roof inspectors. TRM Roofing provides a written HD digital roof report, complete with pictures and the best part; roofing OPTIONS! So before Monsoon season is upon us, have your roof inspected by a Certified Roof Inspector and not a roofing sales guy. For more information visit www.TRMroofing.com.

 

Phoenix Roof Inspections

NRCIA Roof Inspections
Phoenix Roof Inspections and Certifications

Real Roof Inspections!

Every Phoenix roofer will offer a free roof inspection in hopes of selling a new roof. But many property owners just want a real roof inspection; they want to know the current condition of their roof. Nicholas Bryditzki a licensed Phoenix roofing contractor and roof expert stated, “Roofs are like windshield wipers, we only think about them when it rains”. That’s why roof inspections are so important. If you want a free estimate for a new roof, call any roofer. But, if you want a real roof inspection call a licensed and NRCIA certified roof inspector. The National Roof Certification and Inspection Association only works with vetted contractors who eventually become Cert-A-Roof approved roofing contractors.

What is a roof certification?

Many insurance companies are now requiring roof certifications on older residential and commercial roofs. Insurance companies are trying to protect themselves from bad roofs, which equates to a bad risk. An NRCIA certified roof inspector can provide a detailed electronic roof report and a NRCIA certified LeakFREE® Roof Certification, which has several advantages over a roofer providing their own “roof certification”

In my next blog post about Phoenix Roof Inspections we will go over what those advantages are! For more information on Roof Certifications or Roof Inspections visit: www.CostEffectiveRoofing.com

 

The 4 Top Reasons Why A Tile Roof Goes Bad in Phoenix

Tile roof
Tile roof repair Phoenix

In Arizona the most common tile systems are, sand cast, clay and concrete tiles. Most of what you see are concrete tile roofs. Most building codes call for one layer 30# felt with a 2” head lap. Even though the tile may last decades the underlayment usually last 15 to 20 years.

The 4 Top Reasons Why A Tile Roof Goes Bad:

1: Slipped, broken or missing tiles. This leaves the felt exposed to our desert sun and it will deteriorate causing it to dry out, crack and curl. Anyone walking on a tile roofs can break tiles, satellite installers, HVAC technicians, inexperienced roofers, etc.

2: Sloppy installation of the tile system. The installers went too fast not paying attention to critical detail areas at walls, skylights, valleys, chimneys and roof vents. Flashing details are one of the most vulnerable areas.

3: Deteriorated underlayment, remember there is supposed to be around 2” laps of felt, many times there’s not. So when the felt curl it exposes the decking. If water gets behind the tile and flows down, it may back up on the battens and get behind the felt into the building assembly.

4: Valley areas get filled with debris and when it rains the water can’t flow properly so it backs up beyond the valley metal usually following a batten and gets behind the flashing causing leaks.

Your actual tile should last a lifetime in Phoenix… it’s just your underlayment that’s the real issue.

Many property owners expect their tile roof to last a lifetime and are caught off guard when a roofer informs them they need a new roof. The concrete or clay tile usually can last a lifetime, but the underlayment won’t. For more information on tile roof repair visit: CostEffectiveRoofing.com