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Does insurance cover roof hail damage? 

This is probably the first question homeowners ask and the answer is yes, within boundaries and limits. Hail damage repair and any other repairs for roof damage from falling limbs, strong winds, tornados, and other weather-related causes are covered by homeowner’s insurance. 

The limits are defined by what type of coverage you choose when you chose your insurance policies. It will also depend on what the insurance adjuster finds when they come out to inspect what hail damage repair or replacement may be needed. If they determine the roof wasn’t installed correctly, they will decline your claim. This can include the roofing you see being installed over another roof, a popular choice when budgets are an issue. 

How can you tell if your roof has hail damage, what does roof damage from hail look like?

Hail damage shortens the lifespan of a roof and if hail damage repairs aren’t completed, it can lead to the roof needing a full replacement. However, hail damage isn’t always visible to the untrained eye. Knowing what to look for will determine what hail damage repair is needed. 

Hail damage that leaves dents and dings is typically 1” in diameter or larger. But what if you don’t see any dents and dings like that on the roof, does that mean you don’t need any hail damage repairs? No, absolutely not! Not all hail damage is visible on the shingles. Other hail damage is found on gutters and roof flashing. This requires inspecting the roof while on the roof, not just viewing it from the ground. 

Can roof hail damage be repaired?

Yes, many times hail damage repairs are possible on roofing. It all depends on the extent of the hail damage. Repairs can be replacing a few shingles and some flashing, maybe replacing some gutter runs and downspouts. Because it takes a trained eye to see all the possible hail damage repairs needed, it is always best to have a professional roofing contractor inspect your roof after a hailstorm. 

What size hail will damage a roof?

On average, an asphalt shingled roof can take up to a 1″ size hailstone before hail damage repairs are needed. However, with just the right amount of force and at the right angle, even a ¼” size (pea-size hailstone) or ½” size (marble-sized hailstone) can cause the need for hail damage repair. 

Any hailstone measuring from 3/4” inch or larger will definitely cause the need for hail damage repair on an asphalt roof and most other types of roofing materials. Hailstones the size of golf balls and softballs can reach up to four and a half inches in diameter will typically require a complete roof replacement. 

Does Hail always damage a roof?

Always! It may not be as severe each time, but there is a dent or ding left behind somewhere on some surface. It may just be a scuff mark on the metal flashing, but it is roof hail damage, repair, or replacement of that strip of flashing may be necessary to keep your roof’s integrity. A few factors to be considered that hailstone damage could have on your home are: 

• Wind – The wind direction and speed will vary during a hailstorm and those changes can affect the location the hailstones hit, and the severity of impact left behind.
• Density and Size – The density of the hailstone can be small like a pea, or it can be softball size. Regardless the size, they are rough in texture, and that texture can do a lot of damage no matter the size. 
• Building materials – Hailstone impacts different building materials differently. For example, aluminum siding and gutters will dent easier from hailstones than asphalt shingles. Roof hail damage to wood shakes will be different than asphalt shingles and vary with the size of the hailstone. The age of the building material will determine how it is affected too.
• Barriers – How neighboring structures are situated, along with any natural barriers like trees and landscaping can reduce the hail damage.

What do you do if your roof has hail damage?

You should walk around your home and inspect the exterior, including any detached structures like barns, carports, and garages. Take notes, pictures, and possible, videos. Note the date and time of the hailstorm. You’ll need to give this information to your insurance adjuster, and always keep a copy for yourself. 

Why is hail damage bad for a roof?

Hailstones and high winds will weaken the integrity of the shingles on your roof. Once that seal is weakened, the shingle is loose and can blow off with the next big wind gust, leaving the roof exposed and vulnerable to the elements. This leads to a leaking roof and other issues around your home. 

Do I need shingle repair or replacement?

So, how do you know when to replace shingle roofs and when are roof shingles repair jobs enough? The Houston area of Texas has constant exposure to abrupt temperature changes and extreme heat. That thermal shock can cause a need for roof shingles repair needs from blisters and cracks. Unfortunately, the blisters and cracks aren’t always visible to the untrained eye, so an annual roof inspection is recommended. Most roofing contractors offer free inspections and can advise you if a complete replacement is necessary, or a small roof shingles repair job is sufficient. 

A few indicators that can tell you without a roof inspection that a roof shingles repair job isn’t going to be enough are: 

• Daylight in the Attic: When you’re up in the attic, if you see daylight beaming through the ceiling, a roof shingle repair job may be enough, but it could be that there are more serious issues going on and a roof replacement would be the better choice. 
• Sagging Spots: If your roof has any sagging areas, a roof shingle repair job is not going to be enough. You need a roof replacement, and sooner rather than later because there is probably some wood rot under the shingles to the decking and possibly the rafters. 
• Shingle Damage: If you’re seeing bent, cracked, curled shingles, or missing shingles, you should get a professional inspection to determine what new roof will cost and if it is time to file a claim on your homeowners insurance or is roof shingles repairs will be good enough – for now. 
• Green Spots: After a rain or snow, there will be some water left behind on the roof. As that water sits there, it grows algae, fungi, and moss, especially if you have a lot of trees shading the roof. That combination of algae, fungi, and moss are keeping that moisture in the shingles and rotting them. A professional roof cleaning may help, but if your roof is around 10 years old, a roof replacement is needed. 
• Granules in the Gutters: Are you noticing a roof shingle granule loss on some shingles? Perhaps you’ve noticed the gutter runs have an excessive number of shingle granules? That is the top layer of your roof shedding off and is an indicator that roof shingles repair job is not going to be enough. 

What are the layers of a shingle roof?

Usually, knowing a bit more about a shingle roof will help you determine whether there are any problems when you conduct a visual inspection. There are eight layers to a shingled roof, each with a specific purpose. Each layer works with the other to ensure you have the best protection for your home. Those layers are: 

• Insulation – This is a barrier installed between the rafters or the joists that slows down the heat transferring into your home, keeping it cool in the summer and warm in the winter. 

• Ventilation – The attic of your home that provides a level of protection for the roof. When a roof isn’t ventilated correctly or sufficiently, it allows moisture to build up and then wood rot begins. 

• Roof Deck – The roof decking is installed over the framing and is the base that the rest of the roof will depend on for support. If you’re getting roof shingle repair, the contractor may find the roof decking needs repair or replacement too, which will make this a roof replacement job instead.  

• Underlayment – The underlayment is installed to provide a protective layer for the decking. It is a water resistance material that keeps rain and snow from infiltrating under the shingles so that it can’t get to the decking. 

• Ice Shield – After the underlayment, a polymer-modified bitumen adhesive is installed that helps the roofing membrane to adhere to the roof decking and forms a watertight seal where the roofing nails are installed. When roof shingles repair jobs are done, ask the contractor if they are installing the ice shield too. 

• Ridge Vents – Ridge vents are installed at the roof’s peak as part of the ventilation system and allow hot air to rise naturally. It then releases that air to the outside. This provides uniform cooling for the roof decking and lessens the need for air conditioning for comfort while also extending the lifespan of your roof.

• Roofing Material – The roofing material, whether shingles or another material you’ve chosen, is the last layer of the roof. 

• Flashing – Roof flashing is installed on top of the roofing material to provide additional waterproofing for the various planes on a roof. Flashing is typically some type of metal that doesn’t allow water to penetrate along the chimney, eaves, plumbing vents, skylights, walls, or vents.

Is it OK to power wash a shingle roof?

A shingle roof should be power washed once a year at the most, and if you’re going to do your own power washing, do not aim the pressure washer nozzle upward on the roof so that it is hitting the shingles from underneath. This can loosen or even rip the shingles off. You could find yourself getting roof shingles repaired or replaced, or even find yourself in need of a new roof. 

Can a shingle roof be painted?

Yes, but you need to keep in mind that the roof is exposed to the elements 24/7/365. This is going to take a toll on the roof shingles, repair and repainting will be necessary over time. Is that something you’re willing to do – repaint the roof every two to three years? 

Can you seal a shingle roof?

Maybe you’ve noticed some buckling shingles on your roof and can’t afford a professional roof shingles repair or replacement right now. Can you apply a sealant? Yes, there is an acrylic formula shingle sealant available that will provide a seal for your roofing while bonding the shingles together. This is a clear sealant that provides an ultraviolet radiation-proof film coating.

How do you repair a leaky shingle roof?

Using a silicone roof sealant will fill in small cracks, holes, and nail holes to stop small leaks until you’re ready to have a roof shingle repair or a new roof installed. It takes only a small amount using a caulk gun to place it under the problem shingles.

Are metal roofs more energy efficient?

One of the most aspects of metal roofing, and one of the metal roofing basics, is the energy efficiency they provide. Contrary to popular belief, even here in the southern part of Texas during the hot summer, homes can be cool and comfortable, and even have lower energy bills, with metal roofing. 

How long does a metal roof last?

Another popular aspect of metal roofing that is attracting more and more homeowners is the longevity they offer. There are many benefits that come with metal roofing and a lifespan between 40 and 70 years is one of them. Factors that can give metal roofing a longer life include the quality of metal used, the quality of the installation, and the weather in your area.

With high-quality metal, a high-quality installation by a professional, and average weather, you can expect to see the 70-year mark, or maybe longer, barring any surprises. Compare that with the average 12 years you’ll get with an asphalt roof, and you can justify the higher cost because your metal roofing will outlive standard asphalt shingle roofing three times over.

What are all the metal roofing pros and cons? 

The material choices in metal roofing today are numerous: 

• Galvanized steel
• Galvalume steel 
• Weathered steel
• Aluminum
• Copper
• Zinc

Metal roofing comes in different product types of granular coated panels, pre-formed panels, and vertical seam. The style choices, some of which we’ve already mentioned, include: 

• Shingles
• Slate
• Tile
• Shakes
• Vertical panels

Once you’ve made your mind up to have metal roofing installed, work with a roofing contractor that is experienced with installing metal roofing on residential structures. The ideal roofing contractor will follow the local building codes, manufacturer’s guidelines, and know the proper installation method to keep your metal roofing in line for guarantees and warranties. 

Make sure the metal roofing product installed on your home has been industry tested and is labeled and listed with a testing organization like FM Approvals, Intertek, or UL. You want your metal roofing to be able to stand up to all requirements and meet all fire, impact, and wind resistance ratings. 

We have already mentioned, two of the most popular benefits that attract more homeowners every year are energy efficiency and longevity. Other benefits of metal roofing include: 

• Durability: When metal roofing is installed correctly, it can withstand gusts of wind upwards of 140 miles per hour, is impact resistant, and won’t corrode or crack. 
• Maintenance: Metal roofing should be inspected annually and after any significant weather event, but overall it requires little to no maintenance.
• Safety: Because metal roofing is fire resistant, it won’t ignite or spark flames from a lightning strike or wildfire. This is why it gets a high safety rating from insurance companies.
• Environmental: Metal roofing is made from as little as 25% and up to 95% recycled content, and when it has reached the end of its life (or if you’re just tired of it), it is 100% recyclable. The asphalt shingles that are torn off roofs every day can potentially another 20 billion pounds to our landfills every year.

Can you put a metal roof over shingles?

This is feasible in most cases, but there are determining factors, with the biggest one being the manufacturer of the metal roofing. Many will not honor their warranty when it is installed over existing roofing materials. Many contractors will not install metal over existing materials because of this factor, as it can reflect on their reputation if there is a problem. 

Another factor that should be verified before scheduling installation for metal roofing is local building codes and requirements. A quality roofing contractor will check these matters out while pulling any required permits. It would behoove a homeowner to check themselves before getting too far into the decision-making process. 

The Benefits of Metal Roofing

One thing that most homeowners haven’t done is install metal roofing. So how is that going to help your electric bill? Why choose a metal roof? Well, here in Texas, we need roofing that provides a lot of benefits for our homes, and metal roofing can do just that. How can energy efficiency be improved with metal roofing? Look at these benefits: 

• Lightweight – install metal roofing right over your existing asphalt shingle roofing without any problems in most cases. That’s a money saver right there because there is no tear-off or disposal costs. 
• Durable – professional installation and proper maintenance, metal roofing will last 50 years or more. They are almost impenetrable to hailstones and tree branches, they are insect, rot, and rust resistant. 
• Stylish – the metal roofing on old barns are yesteryear! Today, metal roofing is stylish and can be designed to mimic clay, slate, or wood shingles. 
• Energy Efficient  – yeah, this got your attention! Metal roof energy savings because it is considered a ‘cool roof’ by reflecting sunlight and the UV rays that heat up a roof. With less heat on the roof, the less heat is absorbed by the house, keeping it cooler, and less air conditioning is needed. 
• Maintenance – metal roofing doesn’t require as much maintenance as asphalt shingle roofing, a time saver. 
• Environmental – new metal roofing is 50% or more recycled metal content and 50+ years from now when it’s torn off and discarded, it is 00% recyclable.

What does more energy-efficient mean?

One example of energy efficiency is lightbulbs. A standard 60-watt incandescent lightbulb uses 90% of its energy in heating, not lighting. The LED bulbs of today use 90% of their energy for lighting, not heating. That is the definition of energy-efficient. 

However, lightbulbs are just one example of energy efficiency. Every appliance in your home today can be switched over to a more energy-efficient model, and so can your roof! To summarize, energy efficiency means achieving the same results using less electricity or gas. Metal roofing is the answer to an energy-efficient roof. 

When is energy efficiency important?

These are three critical reasons why being energy efficient is so important today: 

• The Environment

By being energy efficient, you’re being environmentally friendly too. Using less energy like electricity and gas, we are releasing fewer carbon emissions in the atmosphere. It reduces your carbon footprint which eases the strain on the climate and your budget. 

• The Global Economy 

Electricity and gas are based on natural resources and once they dwindle, a financial inequity on the global economy is left behind. That financial inequity is a worldwide matter, leaving much of society in poverty. 

• Your Finances 

Being energy-efficient and environmentally friendly will help your bank account too. Using an energy-efficient water heater, cookstove, cooling and heating methods, and metal roofing will contribute to the bottom line of your bank account each month. 

What are the benefits of energy efficiency?

In addition to the energy efficiency metal roofing and other steps we have discussed here, two more important benefits of being more energy efficient are: 

• The local economy improves because we’re spending less money on necessities like higher utility bills and going out to eat and shopping. That money is going back into the general economy, which helps keep us working which helps us spend more money. 

• Improved health and quality of life with less carbon emissions in the air and reducing air pollution. We’re able to breathe cleaner air, cases of respiratory infections and diseases are fewer. 

What is the best color of metal roof for energy savings?

While metal roofing is an energy-efficient way to top off your home, choosing the right color will cool up to another 60 degrees compared to a dark color asphalt shingled roofing. The better colors for metal roofing are: 

• Beige
• Blue
• Light bronze
• Light green
• Peach
• White

How long will a metal roof last?

Your basic asphalt shingle roofing will last a maximum of 20 years with proper maintenance and upkeep. Metal roofing can double that lifespan. You can expect to get up to 70 years of service when it is installed correctly, and you keep the maintenance and upkeep as recommended. 

Durable: PVC roofing is moisture resistant because of the watertight bond the hot air welded seams create. The seams are stronger than the PVC roofing material, which is one of the strongest roofing materials on the market today.  

Long Lifespan: PVC roofing material has an undeniable durability and strength that lends to the long lifespan. When installed properly by an experienced roofing contractor, and occasional maintenance checks and inspections, PVC roofing will last up to 20 years. This long lifespan and lack of constant repairs will offset the higher installation costs. 

Chemical Resistant: It is common for a commercial structure to have chemical exposure on the rooftop which can cause them to deteriorate faster. PVC roofing has a high resistance to chemicals and toxins unlike other single ply roofing materials. 

Fire Resistant: PVC roofing doesn’t support combustion making it fire-resistant. Difficult to ignite and a slow burning and will self-extinguish fires once the source of the fire is removed. 

Wind Resistant: The hot air welded seams that make PVC roofing durable also make it wind resistant. It has withstood Category 3 hurricane winds on low or high-rise structures. 

Water-Resistant: Another plus for hot air welded seams with the water resistance they form, even in a hurricane or heavy rainstorm. PVC roofing can hold up to ponding and all levels of alkaline conditions. It is bacteria, mold, and plant resistant as well. 

Eco-Friendly: For the building owner that is conscious of minimizing carbon footprint, PVC roofing is an eco-friendly material. It has a high rating in energy efficiency for cooling and heating the building, reflects the sun’s UV rays and eases the heat island effect in city surrounding. A recyclable material when its service life has ended.

Is PVC better than TPO?

When comparing pvc roofing vs tpo roofing, it depends on the structure’s location and the structure’s use. TPO roof is weather superior over PVC roofing, resisting breaking and tearing. However,  the characteristics of PVC meet needs of a structure that will expose the roof to chemicals, grease, and oils. For a restaurant with rooftop grease traps, PVC roofing is the better choice.

What is the difference between TPO and PVC roofing?

The most notable  difference between PVC roofing and TPO roofing is the chemical makeup that initially was intended to make TPO  the superior material over PVC roofing. However, it was also intended for TPO roofing to be cheaper which led to a substandard membrane.

A noticeable similarity between TPO roofing and PVC roofing is both being made with a thermoplastic material that is heat weldable. This makes both roofing materials leak resistant, a bonus over EPDM roofing. 

Both roofing materials are regarded as green roofing and energy efficient with their white surfaces that make them a reflective “cool” property. With the white surface, they both reflect the UV rays  and are heat resistant. 

Another similarity is the installation process of both TPO roofing and PVC roofing. Using the same procedures, skills, and tools to where they are either fully adhered or mechanically fastened. Both roofing materials are chemical, grease, and oil resistant, puncture resistant, and easily repaired. 

Can you walk on PVC roofing?

PVC roofing can hold up to 350 pounds per square inch, strong enough for a human to walk on. Because it becomes slick in cold temperatures or when wet, it is recommended to wear shoes with grip to prevent falls and slipping. 

Is roof repair structural?        

A roof can be considered architectural or structural, or structural architectural. The key difference between architectural and structural is the supporting members. An architectural roof is for the design, which may have a slope that isn’t dependent on supporting members. A structural roof requires ventilation to keep moisture out of the attic space so that mold and rot doesn’t destroy the structural member, aka the rafters and decking.

In general a structural Repair is when the columns, foundation, roof joists, or load-bearing walls are repaired or replaced.  In the case of a basic roof repair, it is not structural if there is no roof being replaced from the rafters up or an additional roof is being added on the existing. Therefore, a roof repair without permit is legal.

How do I stop my roof leaking in heavy rain?

Nothing says emergency roof repair than a roof that starts leaking in the middle of a rainstorm. Common sense tells you that a roof repair, even temporary, is needed so that more damage isn’t done to the roof, attic, and the interior of your home. There is a good chance there was a small leak already and it has been dripping into your house for a while, saturating the drywall. Here we offer instructions to create a temporary emergency roof repair patch until you can have a professional roofer do a proper job: 

1. Go in the attic and remove any insulation that is wet, then soak up (or shop vac) any standing water. Place a plywood board across the joists and position a bucket on it so that it can catch the dripping water. 
2. Follow the water leak to where it is entering the roof, which may not be right above where the drip is located. Water runs the least resistant path, so it could be from an area far from that point. Usually you’ll find a roof leak following the rafters. 
3. Using another piece of plywood and roofing tar, make a temporary roof repair patch by spreading the roofing tar with a trowel over the hole. Then place the plywood over the hole and attach it to the decking with screws, every 2-3 inches apart, all the way around the plywood.  Then spread roofing tar over the edges of the plywood all the way around.  
4. Use a tape measure and get the distance from the roof gable to the roof ridge inside the  attic. Then once the rain stops and it safe to climb on the roof, you can use these same steps to creates a roof repair patch on the roof top using the measurement you just took to find the leak. 

• The type of roof material
• One story, two story home
• The severity and size of the roof repair needed

On average, a roof repair can cost around $900 with a range as low as $300 and as high as $1400 or more. Again, the above stated factors will determine the final cost of your roof repair. Need help with your roof repair in Rosenberg and Sugar Land, TX? Call (832) 598-4245 today!

• Unique  Aesthetics and Versatility: Most often clay and concrete tile roofing that are found in earth tones, sand-cast, or unglazed finish. The classic curved shape and multiple color options make them versatile to fit any style. Choose flat or fluted or interlocking tiles or go with a wood shake mimic in a clay tile. Home of all styles take on a different look whether it is a craftsman, log, or rustic architecture.  Choose a natural slate tile roofing for your colonial, Tudor, or Victorian home that will give it a contemporary, sleek appearance. 
• Durable: Clay, concrete, and slate tile roofing is corrosion, fire, insect, and rot resistant and withstands extreme temperatures, making tile roofing an excellent choice for any climate. Many tile roofing types are impact resistant, great for homes in a hail-prone area of the country. Roof tile with venting in attic is excellent for cold and hot climates, with special tile roofing materials specific for freezing climates that won’t crack when thawing. 
• Extended Lifespan: Tile roofing that is constructed of clay, concrete, or slate will last you a lifetime that you’re in your home. Most come with a 50 year warranty but have been on homes and other structures for over 150 years. 
• Economical: Tile roofing is expensive to install, it is definitely not the cheapest in material and the labor is intense. A 10’ x 10’ square can cost as much as $2,000 to install.  However, this high end material is offering a long-term lifespan, you’ll never need to replace this roofing, and repairs are minimal.  The high rate of thermal mass of tile roof regulates the temperature, requiring less cooling and heating from your HVAC. 

What is the best tiles for roofing?

Tile roofing is crafted from several types of materials and the most popular choice in recent years has been slate. It offer an aesthetic finish that many homeowners find pleasing. Then concrete tile roofing is another popular choice because of the minimal maintenance required and the long-term durability in any climate. Metal tile roofing is popular as well, a fire-resistant material that insurance companies love for commercial or residential properties. 

In years past, tile roof without underlayment was common and legal anywhere. Today, building codes are more strict, so confirm with your roofing contractor that an underlayment is included in the quote and will be installed. 

The variances in roof pitches is endless, and which type of tile roofing material is right for you home will depend on the angle, pitch, and steepness of the roof. Discuss with your roofing contractor the best tile roofing material for your home’s specific roofing style. 

Which roof tiles last the longest?

When it is time to re-roof your home, you need to think about your investment. Roofing is not cheap, and the choice you make in roofing should be determined by your budget and the time frame you want the new roof to last. The longer a roofing material lasts, the more expensive. Factors you need to consider when choosing your new roofing material: 

• Weather conditions
• Home design
• Routine maintenance
• Roofing product quality 

The tile roofing material with the longest lifespan are clay, concrete, slate tile. Each of these materials are known for having significant perform over other natural roofing products such as wood shakes, and manufactured roofing materials like asphalt and metal. 

Anyone that isn’t familiar with tile roofing will always ask, “Do tile roofs leak?”, and the answer they are given is not anymore than any other type of roofing material.  When a tile roof is leaking, the usual source poor installation workmanship, low quality of the tile material, missing flashing, lack of maintenance, and infrequently, the age of the tile roofing. Call (832) 598-4245 today for tile roofing installation in Rosenberg and Sugar Land, TX.

What are the damages caused by wind?

The older the roof, the more likely it is to have wind damage to the shingles, but a new roof isn’t totally protected! The following are things you can expect from high wind damage to your home’s roof: 

• Cracked, split, torn roofing shingles
• Curled roofing shingles
• Missing roofing shingles
• Clogged and/or damaged vents
• Clogged and/or damaged gutters and downspouts
• Bent, loose, or missing flashing

After any significant weather event, it is recommended to walk around your home with binoculars, or climb up to the roof, and do an inspection. If you see any possible issues, call a professional roofing contractor to do a thorough inspection, which includes inside your attic. Any possible leaks that aren’t obvious from the roof itself can be found inside the attic with daylight showing through the roof.          

When do you file wind damage to roof insurance claim? 

There is always a contention between wind damage and homeowner’s insurance. Remember, an insurance company is a business and every business wants a healthy profit margin. That means they are going to try to find reasons not to pay claims. 

So, in answer to the question, when should you file a wind damage to the roof claim on your homeowners? It depends on your policy, how bad the damage is, and what the repair or replacement will cost. 

Most homeowner’s insurance policies will cover accidental issues like fire, hail, wind damage, or even the weight of ice and snow. Things your insurance company are going to take into consideration is the life of the roof, the maintenance and upkeep of the roof, and if the wind damage could have been prevented. 

If you suspect wind damage, after you have a professional roofing contractor inspect the roof and provide you a report of what they found, ask them for an estimate to repair or replace the roof. Then, based on what your deductible, determine if you need to file a claim.  If the repair is less than your deductible, do not file a claim. 

How do I protect my roof from storm damage?

You can avoid problems and trouble when you know how to protect your home, including the roof, from storm and wind damage. The following three recommendations can help you: 

• Routine Inspection: Do your own roof inspection on a regular basis or have an annual inspection by a professional roofing contractor. When you go a long period of not checking your roof, issues that could be avoided become problems quickly. A roof inspection also includes checking the ceiling and interior walls for leaks and stains, checking the attic for leaks, moisture on the insulation, etc. 
• Clean Roof: A roof doesn’t need additional weight, and believe it or not, a roof with ice and snow is adding weight to the roof. It is important to clear accumulated ice and snow from the roof during the winter. During the spring and summer, clear accumulation of debris like leaves and limbs, and keeps the gutters cleaned on a routine basis too. Clogged gutters will cause a lot of damage to a roof.
• Damage Assessment and Repairs: When you do your roof inspection, or have it done, getting those repairs done when wind damage, or any damage is discovered, is important. The sooner you get those damages repaired, the better your roof will withstand high winds. One loose or missing shingle is leaving your roof vulnerable for high wind damage. 

What is wind protection?

Wind protection is just what it says: Protecting your home, your vehicle, or yourself from the wind. With a focus on the topic of this article being your home and roof, there are things you can do to prevent wind damage to the roof.  

Wind damage can be expensive and extensive. Doing what you can to prevent it will minimize the loss your homeowner’s insurance won’t cover, and the aggravation you’ll experience. Call (832) 598-4245 today for wind damage repair in Rosenberg and Sugar Land, TX.

• Minor Damage: If the roof damage is minor, save the money of a total roof replacement and get what repairs are needed to hold up to the elements.  Minor repairs are small holes, a loose, or missing shingle. 
• Tight Budget: Not everyone has $8,000 or more in their back pocket to pay for a roof replacement. With a roof repair, you can save the funds and then you can start saving up for a roof replacement at a later date. 
• Architectural Integrity: If your home has a specific architectural style, a roof replacement may disrupt the original composition. A roof replacement will often disrupt the original style of the home since it is an important component of the structure. A roof repair will enable to keep that architectural style until you’re ready to make the major change. 
• Short Notice:  Roof repair is often a choice that many homeowners will choose when they are placing their home on the market instead of making the investment in a new roof replacement.  

What is replaced when you get a new roof?

 A new roof replacement is an expense, so it is helpful to know exactly what is involved in a roof replacement? 

1. Shingle Tear Off 

Some homeowners will choose to have a new roof replacement installed over the existing roof. This isn’t recommended, especially if the existing roofing has cracked, curled, or worn shingles. The new shingles won’t lay properly, and a heavy rain or wind can work its way under the new shingles. It could save you some money but going with a full roof replacement installed from the bottom and up, including tearing off the old shingles is the better option for the long run. 

2. Roof Decking

Your first step in getting a roof replacement is having a roofing contractor inspect your existing roof. This will include checking the decking and if they judge it to need repair or replacing. The decking is important to the stability of the shingles and your home’s structure. 

3. Underlayment

A new roof replacement includes underlayment, a waterproof, water-resistant barrier that is installed to the roof decking. This is typically a protective material like asphalt.  

4. New Flashing

Area of a roof that are prone to leaks like the chimney, skylights, and valley will require new flashing to be installed with your new roof replacement. Flashing is a rust-resistant metal that will provide extra protection in those areas that have a heavy runoff from rain or where two surfaces meet.

5. Drip Edge 

A new roof replacement will include new metal drip edging that installed around the roof edge and the eave sides. This is required for homes where ice accumulates from melting ice and snow and will keep melting ice from backing up under the shingles.

How do I know when my roof needs to be replaced?

As a homeowner, you don’t want to wait until you notice a wet spot on the ceiling before you get a roof replacement.  There are other factors that can determine if a new roof is needed: 

• Age: An asphalt roof that has been professionally installed and properly maintained can last up to 20 years. If your roof is reaching its 15th anniversary, start putting money aside for a new roof. 
• Buckled and Curled Shingles: Asphalt shingles that are buckled or curled are not doing your home much good. Rain and wind are getting up under them and onto the roof decking. It is only time before that rain makes it into your attic and living room.
• Roof valley: Loose or missing asphalt shingles in the valleys of the roof can allow melting ice, rain, and snow to seep under the shingles.  
• Missing shingles: Missing shingles are another sign that your roof is reaching its end of life. 
• Chimney flashing: Where the roof meets around the chimney is vulnerable for ice, rain, and snow. Flashing is a metal material that is installed with roof cement or roofing tar, to make the flashing water-tight fit and long-lasting. 
• Gutters filled with asphalt granules: If you notice asphalt granules in your gutters, that means there are less on the rooftop If you’ve noticed dark spots or inconsistency, it is time to get a quote on a new roof replacement. 
• Daylight coming through: Climb up in the attic and if you can see daylight coming through the roof, you need a new roof replacement. 

Can you patch a roof instead of replacing it?

Patching your roof can work, but you’ll want to make sure that it will hold up under the elements and your budget is ready for roof replacement. A professional roofing contractor that knows How to replace a roof and how to make repairs correctly. Check the contractor’s certification, insurance, and experience in the type of roofing that you choose for your home 

Is roof coating waterproof?

Building managers apply roof coatings primarily to seal up leaks and prevent new ones from developing. While they are very effective at preventing leaks, their waterproofing capabilities only extend to the roof’s substrate. Each type of coating also has different waterproofing capabilities.

Are roof coatings any good?

If you are thinking about adding a coating, you’ll want to weigh its pros and cons.

Pros

• Saves money on replacement costs: Instead of tearing off your roof, a coating is added that will extend your roof’s life for several years.
• Energy expenses reduced: As a cool roofing material, coatings improve energy efficiency because they reflect the sun and help keep your building cool.
• Leak prevention: Coatings seal current leaks and prevent new ones from developing.

Cons

• New roofing won’t adhere to it: If you plan to get new roofing, you’ll have to remove the roof coating and old roof because new material does not adhere well over coatings.
• The roof must be in good condition: Your roof cannot be more than 25% saturated and the seams have to be in good condition for the coating to be applied.
• Expertise required: Applying a coating is not a do-it-yourself project. You have to have experienced professionals apply it.

What is the best roof coating?

Because every roofing system is different, the roof coating that’s best will vary with the type of roof you have and its particular needs. Coatings like silicone, for instance, are preferred when your primary concern is reflectivity and improved energy efficiency, whereas polyurethane is valued for its durability, strength, and ability to adhere to most surfaces.

What matters most will be the coating’s physical properties and whether they match well with your roof. When evaluating a coating you want to consider:

• Elongation: A percentage that measures how much the coating can stretch before breaking. The higher the percentage the better it holds up to expansion and contraction.
• Tensile strength: This is the amount of pressure in psi that coatings can endure before breaking.
• Moisture resistance or permeability: This is the coating’s ability to manage moisture or gases passing through it.
• Reflectivity: The coating’s ability to reflect light. A good rating is 85% or better.
• Emissivity: This number indicates how well the coating releases absorbed heat.
• Solids by volume: This is a measure of the solids that remain in the coating once it has dried. Knowing this number can help you determine the coating’s thickness.

How long does roof coating last?

The thickness of the coating will determine its longevity. Most coatings, no matter how thick, last about 10 years before they need to be reapplied. Weather and location will also affect the coating’s longevity.

How much roof coating do I need?

The amount of coating you’ll need will depend on the type and size of your roof. Metal roofs tend to require the least, as one gallon can cover 80 square feet of corrugated metal and 100 square feet of smooth metal. For modified bitumen, built-up or concrete roofing, you’ll need about one gallon for every 50 square feet. Rubber roofs only require about one gallon for every 80 feet of roof. When applying primer, you’ll need one gallon of primer for every 50 to 100 square feet.

How do you apply roof coating?

Roof coatings are actually fairly simple to apply. For a successful application, professionals follow this process:

• Clean the roof with a solution of water and Trisodium Phosphate (TSP) cleaner or a TSP substitute. Sweep puddles and any areas where previous coatings appear to be peeling.
• Make any repairs to tears, open seams, or penetrations using sealants.
• Apply the coating when sealants set and the roof has dried.

Can roof coating be applied over shingles?

While it’s possible to do so, most roofing professionals advise against applying roof coatings to shingle roofs. Coatings applied over shingle roofing have been known to shrink, which causes shingles to curl or cup. Some non-permeable coatings will cause a vapor retarding layer to form that leaves the roof deck vulnerable to rotting. Many shingle manufacturers also void warranties if a coating is applied and some municipal building codes disallow coating shingles.