roof

The climate you live in, the size of your building, and your financial situation are all going to impact what roof you chose to install. 

The big question is: flat or sloped? How are you supposed to decide on the grade of your roof?

You need to learn all the differences between a flat roof and a sloped roof before you commit to one or the other. 

Keep reading to learn the distinction between roofs and what will work best for your needs.

1. The ‘Inside’ Scoop

You wouldn’t think your roof would have much impact on the inside of your building. The amount of space you need to utilize could be a deciding factor in choosing a flat roof or a slanted roof. 

If you need every last inch of space for storage, shelves, or other fixtures, a flat roof could be exactly what you need. Flat roofs are ideal for buildings in cities with limited space.

A sloped roof creates a pretty interior and is more appropriate for residential homes. If you don’t need tall furniture or the extra storage space, a sloped roof ark could be perfect for your needs.

2. ‘Weather’ or Not

Winter storms caused over four billion dollars in roof damages in 2018. The climate you face is a big factor in choosing a flat roof or a sloped roof.

“Flat” doesn’t necessarily mean it’s completely level. A flat roof slope is minuscule but it’s there to drain water from rain or small amounts of snow.

A flat roof is still vulnerable to leaks. The best climate for flat roofs is warm and dry for that reason.

If you live in a place that gets heavy snowfall every winter, your best bet could be a slanted roof. The incline will allow the accumulated snow to fall to the side and lower the risk of leaks or a cave-in.

3. Now or Later

Price is another factor that varies a lot between flat and sloped roofs. Do you have a lot of money to spend upfront, or will you need to save now to spend later?

A flat roof will be cheaper upfront. It’s easier to install and takes fewer materials. 

In the long run, it may be pricier. The leaks will need repairing and that could end up costing you a good chunk of change in the long run. 

A sloped roof is more intricate and will cost more to build. A sloped roof will need fewer repairs over time and free up your cash for other investments.

Luckily you don’t need to know to build a slanted roof or repair a flat roof. Capital Roofing and Restoration has a variety of services to cater to your roofing needs.

Raise the Roof

Now that you know all the pros and cons of a flat roof versus a sloped roof, it’s time to make a decision and get building.

Give us a call or send an email and we can set you up with the roof that meets your specific requirements. 

The first use of clay tiles for roofing dates back to 3,000 B.C. in ancient China. Throughout history, the materials used for roofs have changed significantly. The last two hundred years, in particular, have proven revolutionary.

The roofing industry has advanced far past its humble origins. Unfortunately, a roof still doesn’t last forever. An important way to prolong your roof’s life is through regular inspections.

How often should you get your roof inspected? Continue reading to find out.

Why Is It Important to Have Your Roof Inspected?

Many things can damage your roof. Hail is especially brutal to your roof, as are significant accumulations of snow.

Intense storms are also heavily responsible for damage. If winds are strong enough, they can tear shingles off your roof. Flying or falling debris can create holes.

Normal wear and tear can also affect your roof. Over time, damage happens and needs to be repaired quickly. The only way to find existing damage is through roof inspection.

How Often Should Your Roof Be Inspected?

In most states, you should have your roof inspected once a year. Having it examined in the late summer or early fall is a good idea. This gives you time to repair any damage to your roof before winter.

States with heavy snowfall should have their roofs inspected twice a year. One inspection should be done in the spring. Spring inspections will ensure heavy snow accumulation didn’t damage your roof.

Is Roof Inspection Costly?

No, a roof inspection is generally not costly. An inspection is much more affordable than having to replace your roof due to damage that’s been let go.

Does a Home Inspector Do Roofs?

No. A home inspector does a general inspection, but this only includes a visual check of your roof. They might catch significant issues, but they aren’t looking at the roof in-depth.

A roof inspector has special tools that allow them to detect weak spots in your roof. Infrared rays are used to identify areas that are cooler or warmer than the rest.

How Long Does a Roof Last?

How long your roof will last depends on many factors. The material your roof was made with and the type of weather where you live are significant determining factors. How often you have your roof inspected can also be important.

In most states, a well-ventilated roof receiving regular upkeep should last at least twenty years. In states with heavy snow accumulations, it isn’t rare to find people replacing roofs after only five years.

Do You Have More Questions About Roof Inspections?

Having your roof inspected is vital to your home’s integrity. You should have your roof inspected one or two times a year, depending on where you live.

Do you have more questions about roof inspections? Or, would you like to schedule a time to have your roof inspected?

Contact us today. One of our associates would be happy to answer any questions you still have. They can set you up an appointment while on the phone if desired.

Whether you’re buying or selling a home, you know the roof is always a source of interest. If it’s not in good condition, the roof becomes a sticking point when the buyer brings their offer. A roof certification benefits both parties involved in a real estate transaction.

Read today’s post and find out what a certification includes, why you need one, and who to call to get a roof certified.

Why Should I Get a Roof Certification?

Each party looks at the condition of a property from a unique perspective. Here’s how they look at the roof.

The Buyer

When you buy a house, the last thing you want is a faulty roof. Replacing a roof means a significant investment the average buyer isn’t prepared to make in the first few years of homeownership.

The Seller

If you’re the seller, you also look at the roof from an investment perspective. Replacing a roof before you sell your home means you may need to dip into savings or borrow money. If you give the buyer money at closing for repair or replacement, it takes away from your profit.

If you’re the buyer, certification gives you peace of mind and may help with quicker loan approval. A seller benefits from a pre-listing certification too. A roof certification may attract more buyers and could mean offers closer to the asking price of the home.

We can’t forget the lender! Lenders want to protect their investment too and often won’t release financing without assurances about the roof. They don’t want the buyer to incur financial burdens that could set them up for default.

What Does Certification Include?

A roof certification provides information about the condition and life expectancy of the roof and includes an inspection of the following roofing components:

• Layers of Roofing Materials
• Damaged or Missing Shingles
• Condition of Tiles
• Flashing
• Gutter System
• Previous Repairs

After looking over the roof, the inspector puts the findings into a report or certification.

The certification describes the condition of the roof. It also includes a written estimate of the life expectancy of the roof. Finally, the certification comes with an expiration date of usually 3-5 years.

Who Do I Call?

Most roofing contractors can do certifications, but that doesn’t mean they’re all qualified.

Look for a contractor with both experience and certifications.

When a roofing contractor has several years of experience, it tells you they’ve handled a wide range of inspections, repairs, and replacements. They know what to look for when they certify a roof.

One of the most prestigious pieces of paper a roofing contractor can display says, “Haag Certified.” This certification means the contractor passes specialized training courses where they learn techniques needed to inspect roofs and assess any damages.

Ready to Schedule Your Certification?

As you can see, whether you’re the buyer or seller, a roof certification offers several benefits, including peace of mind and potentially fewer obstacles when completing your real estate transaction.

If you’re ready to schedule a certification, contact us today. We’re also available for routine inspections, repairs, and roof installation.

Your roof does more than protect you and your home from rain. It holds the home together, regulates the internal temperature, and plays a significant role in your house’s appearance. 

If it’s time to replace your roof, it’s essential to pick the best possible material. The average American homeowner spends $7,882 on new roof installations. As a homeowner, you want a roof that can withstand storms, increase your curb appeal, and not cause harm to the environment.

A concrete tile roof is created by mixing sand, cement, and water. The tiles are molded under high pressure. A finishing paint is applied for aesthetic and design.

Concrete tile roofing is becoming more popular throughout America due to its durability, eco-friendly nature, and design variability. Let’s explore why homeowners should choose concrete tiling for their next roof replacement.

1. A Concrete Tile Roof Is Durable

Concrete tile creates some of the most durable roofs in the world. While the upfront cost may be more than traditional roofing prices, the tiles are guaranteed to be long-lasting, making concrete tiling a worthwhile home investment.

Concrete tile roofing can be applied in any climate, although they are most popular in warmer environments. The material reflects light, allowing residents to keep their homes cool without cranking up the AC.

A concrete tile roof is resistant to storm damage like hail, wind, snow, and fire. Concrete roofing tiles have a 13% water absorption rate and can withstand freezing temperatures. Concrete tiles can sustain wind speeds of 125 miles per hour.

If your concrete tile roof is properly installed and well-maintained, you can expect it to last at least 50 years, if not longer.

2. Concrete Tile Roofs Are Environmentally-Friendly

Since concrete tiles are creating using water, sand, and cement, they create an environmentally-friendly roof. When the time comes for replacement, the concrete tiles can be recycled. Best of all, concrete tiles do not contain chemicals, making them a natural roofing material.

Concrete roofing reflects sunlight and helps people keep their energy usage down. Thanks to their long-lasting durability, concrete roof tiles meet the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design’s (LEED) requirements.

3. Concrete Tiles Are Versatile

Concrete tiles can be designed to simulate other materials. They can be molded to look like clay, wood shake, slate, or stone. This way, homeowners can create the appearance they want while receiving the benefits a concrete tile roof has to offer.

In addition to design, concrete tiles come in a limitless amount of colors. Say bye-bye to dull roof colors, which is what you get when you choose asphalt shingles and metal roofs. Concrete tiling allows a homeowner to have more control over the color of their home to create the aesthetic exterior of their dreams.

Ready to Raise the Roof?

A concrete tile roof doesn’t just supply your home with long-lasting protection, it also raises your home’s value. Thanks to the various styles and designs concrete tiles come in, you can easily create a beautiful and durable home.

Are you ready to get to work on your roof? Contact us to learn more about concrete tile roofing. Our award-winning team will supply you with a quote and ensure you receive a reliable, attractive, and environmentally-friendly roof.

Metal roofs tend to last for 50+ years.  When buying a metal roof, you’re making a long-term investment. When you have a roof that lasts so long, you want to make sure it’s the right choice for your home. 

Below we’ll review the pros and cons of installing metal roofing. You’ll have the knowledge you need when deciding on a roof type.

Pros

First, metal roofing weighs around 70-150 lbs. per 100 sq. ft. Other types of roofing can weigh thousands of pounds.  

Second, the lightweight of the roofing material makes it easier to lift.  Metal roofing is one of the easier and faster types of roofing to install. This means you’ll have reduced installation costs as the roofers won’t need as much time to install your roof.

Third, unlike with other types of roofing, with metal roofs, you don’t need to worry about fires, mildew, or rot. You’ll have fewer maintenance costs and worries when it comes to the safety of yourself and your home.

Fourth, as metal roofs are harder and slippery, they’ll easily shed rain and snow. If you live in an area where it snows a lot, by using darker metals, it can warm the snow to help melt it quicker.

On the flip side, if you live somewhere warm, the metal helps reflect the light away from your home making it cooler. This can help you save on air conditioning costs.

Finally, metal has become a versatile material, you can make it look like other materials, such as wood. So, you can now have a nice wood looking roof without all the consequences that come with it.

Cons

First, the initial cost of metal roofing is more on the pricey side. Yet, if you plan on living in your current home for a long time, it may be worth the price. It requires less maintenance and has a longer lifespan compared to other roofing.

Second, metal roofing can be very loud unless properly insulated. When there is stormy weather outside your home, you’ll know it. You can combat the noise by installing noise-canceling insulation and/or plywood sheathing.

Third, depending on what type of metal you opt for your roof can dent. Most metal roofs are made from steel, but some can be made from copper, aluminum, or tin.

The dents tend to form when there are hailstorms, or if someone is walking on your roof. You may want to opt for thicker and heavier metal (such as steel) to prevent denting.

Finally, if you live in an area with fluctuating temperatures, you may need to invest in fasteners. When it’s hot outside your roof will expand, and conversely, when it’s cold outside it’ll contract. This can cause your roof to leak if you don’t have fasteners installed.

Is Installing Metal Roofing Right for You?

Now that you know more about the pros and cons of installing metal roofing, it’s time to decide if it’s right for you. Every type of roof will have its pros and cons, it comes down to whether the pros outweigh the cons for your home. 

Reach out to us today if you want to learn more about metal roofing.