Common Mistakes to Avoid During Metal Roof Repair and Installation
Metal has now become a popular trend in the roofing industry as it gives a property a modern look and lasts longer as compared to other roofing systems. This is the reason, more and more property owners are installing metal roofs to keep their possessions protected from external elements and extreme weather conditions.
However, improper metal roof repair and installation not only reduce the lifespan of the roof but can also cause serious damages to your whole property. In a recent couple of years, while serving the homeowners with our quality residential roofing services at A to Z construction Inc, we have seen that people make mistakes during metal roof repair and installation projects.
In this blog post, we will cover the most common mistakes to look for when repairing or installing a new metal roof and how to avoid making those mistakes.
Incorrect Measurements
Not measuring the roof precisely is one of the main reasons to add extra costs to your roofing project. Wrong measurements lead to ordering the wrong sized metal panels for your roof. Before you order roof panels, make sure to do correct measurements to avoid project delays and additional costs. If you are not sure to measure your roof correctly, you can make use of a roofing calculator to ensure accuracy in your roofing measurement. Or you should hire metal roofing contractors to complete the project professionally.
Installing Fasteners Incorrectly
Whether you are repairing, replacing, or installing a new metal roof, wrongly installed fasteners can cause roof leaks and water damages to your property. Pay attention to proper fastener installation to avoid potential damages and harm to your metal roof. Make sure to install fasteners with little resistance and never leave them under tightened or overtightened. Keep them straight when screwing and tight them properly to leave no room for leakage or other roofing issues.
Incorrect Sealant
The core purpose of the sealant is to keep elements like water or dirt out of your roof. Since dirt and water can compromise the quality and longevity of a metal roof, sealants can keep your roof protected from these elements. But poorly installed sealants could be inclined to roof leaks. When installed properly, sealants can harm your roof instead of increasing its lifespan and endurance.
Therefore, make sure to use sealants that are made for metal roofs and install them properly. If you are facing issues while installing sealants on your metal roof, you must hire professionals to get it done professionally.
Improperly Attaching Flashing
Flashing is the best way to stop water from entering into the structure at a metal roof joint or penetration. When flashing is not attached properly to the metal roofing system, wetness can easily get into the roof to result in roof leaks or water damage. Whether you are repairing your metal roof or installing a new one, attach flashing to the roof properly to avoid potential roof damages. Ensure to attach flashing to areas like chimneys, ventilation ducts, and skylights to prevent moisture or water damages in extreme weather conditions like heavy rain or storm. Selection of the right flashing is also important to make sure each part of the roof is covered completely. Seal your metal roof properly with right-sized flashing to allow water to flow on the roof and prevent it from entering into the joints or penetration of the metal roofing.
Pipe flashing Covered with a Few Screws
Penetration like PVC pipe or chimney is the area of your metal roof that is most prone to water leakage. Flashing these areas with proper care is important to keep your roof from water leaks and other roofing issues. But some homeowners cover these areas with flashing using a few screws or fasteners to keep the water flowing on the roof. This is not the right way to cover those areas for potential leakage. Use right-sized flashing with the right number of screws that are tightened properly.
Wrong Underlayment
Skipping underlayment or using the wrong underlayment is one of the common metal roof repair and installation mistakes. It is an installation error that you can easily avoid. Since it is used to add an extra layer of protection to increase the endurance of your metal roof, you should choose the right one for your structure. Check with your contractors and ask which type of underlayment is allowed for your roof because the use of a wrong underlayment can cause a canceled warranty.
Not Hiring Experts for the Job
Since roofing systems are different, they are not created equal to installation or repair. When it comes to repairing, replacing, or installing metal roofs, not hiring professionals to complete the job can end up with serious roofing problems, project delays, and added costs as well. Instead of doing it yourself, hire professional contractors that are experienced specifically with metal roofing installation. Sign a contract with a company that has many years of experience in metal roof installation and repair.
Do proper research and visit multiple metal roofing contractors in your town when you want to carry out any type of metal roofing project. When hiring contractors, ask the right questions and check if they are licensed and insured. Getting quotes from multiple contractors is also a great idea to choose the best one with the right competencies at affordable prices.
Final Thoughts
Repairing and installation mistakes in metal roofing projects can cause unexpected project delays and added costs as well. This is the reason, you must aware of all the common mistakes to avoid during metal roof repair and installation to complete your projects successfully in a timely manner. To avoid common metal roofing problems, you should buy materials from popular vendors in your area. Then research the marketing and hire professional metal roofing contractors to get the job done. Make sure to check their previous work examples and customer testimonials. This will help you make an informed decision based on customer recommendations and reviews to ensure their services are worth your money.
Repair vs. Replacement: What’s Best for Your Commercial Roof?
Roof damage is every property owner’s nightmare. Since roofing costs make up about 10% of total construction costs, it can be difficult to decide whether to do a repair or replacement. The cost difference between a roof repair and replacement can quickly add up to thousands of dollars. Making the wrong decision may lead to unnecessary expenditure, leaving a huge dent in your bank account.
While insurance companies may pay for your roof damage costs, not all damage is covered and there might be a push and pull before you get them to pay up. To help you figure out the best way to fix your commercial roofing problems, it’s important to have the damage assessed by a professional roofing contractor.
We’ll break down the differences between roof repair and replacement and when to consider each, to help you better understand your options for your commercial roof.
What to Consider Before Repairing or Replacing a Commercial Roof
Several factors come into play when making the decision about whether to repair or replace your commercial roof. For starters:
1. How Old Is Your Roof?
Every roofing system has an average given lifespan. The age of your roof will determine whether the existing damage is natural wear and tear or due to other factors. If your roof has served its guaranteed lifespan, it may be a good time to consider replacing it. However, if it’s only a few years old, investigate the cause of the damage and determine if it’s easier to repair. For instance, if your roof is leaking due to missing or broken shingles or cracked flashing, a repair by a licensed professional is more fitting to fix the problem
2. What Is the Extent of the Damage?
Extensive roof damage may not always be visible from the outside unless you know exactly what to check for—which is why you need a trusted professional. Minor damages are easier to fix and so a roof repair would be appropriate. However, extensive damage that is visible from outside indicates major roof damage. Signs of major commercial roof damage include:
- Cracked surfaces
- Stagnant water on the roof
- Damaged flashing material
- Presence of mold and algae in the building’s interior
- Interior water stains
A repair in this case would be like putting a bandaid on a deep cut, leading to a series of repairs that are costly in the long run. Think of it this way: If you’ll need a second repair to a particular damage some time soon, then it’s better to replace it once and for all.
3. Time Is Money – How Much Are You Willing To Lose?
Both commercial roof repair and replacement take time, and your business will be disrupted for the duration of the work. That said, roof replacement often takes longer than repairs given the weight of the workload that goes into replacement. If your business can’t afford to take a long break, you may want to consider a repair as a temporary fix then replace your roof at a time when business is slow.
4. Geographical Location Matters
Certain geographical areas are more prone to harsh weather conditions than others. If your commercial building is located in a hurricane or tornado-prone area, it’s important to repair any roof damage as soon as it occurs to avoid major roof damage down the line. Storm damage also affects the lifespan of your roof, so take that into account when choosing the type of roofing material, should you decide to do a replacement.
5. What Is Your Budget?
At the end of the day, the weight of your pocket determines what you can afford. Commercial roof replacement costs way more than roof repairs. However, should you need multiple repairs down the road, the costs will add up may exceed the roof replacement costs.
Once your roofing contractor conducts an assessment of your commercial roof’s damage, they can give you a cost estimate to help you weigh your options. In addition, your roofing contractor can help you find or better yet, provide you with roof financing options to help offset the repair or replacement costs.
Now that you have a clear understanding of what drives the decision between a roof repair and replacement, here’s a quick summary of when to consider either roofing solution.
Roof Repairs
A roof repair involves fixing a section of a roof subjected to damage such as:
- Leaks
- Rust
- Missing roofing materials
- Sagging roof
- Water damage
- And more
Roof repairs can be major or minor, depending on the extent of the damage. That said, roof repairs work best for minor roof damage. After a storm or bad weather, it’s important to inspect your roof for any signs of damage so you can get ahead of the problem before it gets worse. Regular roof repairs and maintenance helps extend your commercial roof’s lifespan, saving you from potential roof replacement.
Roof Replacements
As the word suggests, a roof replacement involves removing all the layers of the old roofing materials and replacing them with new materials. All components are removed and replaced, such as:
- Flashing
- Decking
- Drip edge
- Underlayment
- Vents
- Waterproofing
Commercial roof replacement is most ideal for an old roof that has been weathered down by age. The lifespan of commercial roofs is between 10 to 40 years, depending on the type of roofing material. While the installation costs may be costly, a complete replacement can save you from having to do multiple repairs, which may cost even more than a replacement.
A Professional Roofing Contractor Makes All the Difference
Whether you choose to repair or replace your roof, your choice of contractor can either make it or break it for you. You need an experienced and licensed contractor who will provide you with excellent roofing services to ensure your roof stands the test of time.
At A to Z Construction, quality roofing work and customer satisfaction is the driving force for our business. We handle every project independently and tailor our services to suit every client’s needs. Contact us today for a free roof inspection.
4 Qualities You Should Look for When Hiring a Roofer
A roof’s main role is to protect against external climatic conditions and severe weather. But, strong winds, heavy rain, storms, and severe snow can deteriorate roofing components, making it necessary for repairs or a full replacement.
If your roof is more than thirty years old, chances are it has shown signs of wear and tear, or you might just be ready for a refresh. That’s where hiring a professional roofer comes in. Professional roofers have the expertise and tools needed to complete the roofing process within a short time.
However, choosing and hiring the right roofer is not always easy, considering the amount of roofing contractors available. If you have a roofing project and are overwhelmed by your choices, it’s recommended to consider a few important qualities to be sure you pick the best candidate. This guide will explore the main benefits of working with a professional roofer, and discuss the four main qualities to look for when hiring a roofer.
Characteristics of a Quality Roofer
1. Experience and Proven History
How long has the contractor been in the roofing industry? You need excellent roofing results, and this means that you should work with an experienced contractor.
Roofers with the most experience deliver incredible results because they have encountered numerous problems, and have worked on a variety of properties. So, when hiring, be sure to check their proven work history. One way to know more about the contractor’s experience is to visit their website. When was the company started, and how many clients have they serviced? What about photos of the past work? Are they impressive?
You can also engage the contractor in a conversation to learn more about them. The key is to ensure you find out everything about the contractor, including their qualifications. When you are done with your research, you will most likely find the best candidate for the job.
2. Excellent Communication Skills
Communication is key when finding a good roofing contractor. You need to hire someone to talk to freely before, during, and after the project. Listen to how the contractor talks to you:
- Are they harsh?
- Are they willing to answer your questions?
- Do they answer calls and emails in a timely manner?
Don’t work with anyone who isn’t willing to provide clear descriptions for your project. Ask relevant questions, from the project’s cost to how long the project will take. Only hire the contractor who is willing to explain hard concepts, reliable, and has communication etiquette.
3. Verified Permits, Licenses, and Insurance
Both residential and commercial roofers should have a valid license as this shows that the contractor meets the minimum requirements, such as state-related training. The company’s insurance should be valid and bear the contractor’s name.
Another vital credential to check is insurance coverage from a reputable source. Liability insurance coverage ensures that you are not liable for any damages or injuries arising from an unfortunate accident during your roofing project.
A quality roofer will confidently show you their license, insurance, and other verified permits before the project starts. Be sure to discuss the verified permits for your projects before you hire.
4. References and Customer Reviews
What do other people say about the contractor? References are major considerations when looking for the right contractor to hire. Ideally, the best contractor will show you references from past clients. They will give you contacts of past clients to check completed work, and ask a few questions about their experience.
In addition to the references, you can check customer reviews to get a bigger picture of the contractor’s character. Too many complaints and negative feedback can be a warning sign that the roofer might not be the best choice. You can find customer reviews from the contractor’s website on the customer review page or from another credible source like Google Reviews.
Positive reviews from different platforms will give you more confidence in hiring the roofer, especially if it’s a larger project. Avoid roofers with zero reviews and references, or those who are not willing to allow you to check their reviews.
Why Hiring a Professional Roofer Matters
Here are compelling reasons why you should hire a professional roofer for your upcoming roofing project.
#1. Roofers Follow the City’s Building Code
Every city has rules and regulations regarding designing and building a home. A professional roofer ensures you adhere to those rules to avoid legal repercussions.
#2. They Are Skilled
Roofing is a labor-intensive skill that requires handling different roofing materials and components. Professional roofers use their knowledge to accomplish the task without making errors.
#3. They Can Save You From Potential Huge Risks
Roofing involves many risks, like accidents. The chances of falling or getting hurt are high for people with limited roofing knowledge which is why extensive roofing expertise can save you from an accident. Roofers are trained on the safety standards, and have the tools needed to protect themselves while on the job.
#4. They Offer Excellent Advice
In addition to quality work, a professional roofer can offer helpful advice on the best roofing materials to use with consideration to the design of your home. This advice can help you get the best results, and save on unnecessary expenses.
#5. They Offer Warranties
Roofing contractors offer warranties after project completion. If anything gets damaged after project completion, you can always contact them for post-service needs.
#6. They Are Cost-Effective
DIY roofing can be costly when you don’t have the right tools or skills. Roofing contractors can help you save money when you have a budget. Plus, there is no added cost for errors or mistakes because the work is top-quality.
Hire the Right Roofing Contractor
The factors listed above are some of the most vital details to consider when hiring a professional roofer, and we encourage you to never settle for less. When reviewing potential candidates, it’s important to follow your instincts, so you get the best possible roofing contractor for your roofing needs. Here at A to Z Construction, we take pride in providing top-notch roofing services whether it’s simple repairs, a new installation, or full renovation. We encourage you to contact our team today to get a free estimate for your roofing project.
Emergency Roof Repair Tips That All Homeowners Should Know
A strong roofing system is one of the integral features of any home. It protects you, your possessions, family, and everything inside the home. It is also known as the very first line of defense against weather conditions and hazards like storms, hails, stormy winds, and extreme temperatures. Since roofs are always exposed to extreme weather conditions, this weakens their quality and reduces the life span with time. In some situations, you may also need to conduct some emergency roof repair tasks to avoid major damages and harm.
Roof repairs can be costly and time taking as well. And keeping a roof well maintained is the best way to increase its life and avoid expensive repairs. You can also maintain your roofing system by considering the following tips.
Tips & Tricks to Handle Emergency Roofing Repairs
Below are some basic and most effective emergency roof repair tips every homeowner should know to keep their roofs in tip-top condition.
Avoid Doing the Emergency Roof Repair in Horrible Weather
Going up on the roof during bad weather is dangerous. You can get hit by lighting or blow off the roof while trying to fix the roofing problems caused by horrible weather. So, avoid doing emergency repair tasks in bad weather and wait for the right time. If you are experiencing water leakage, just put a bucket under the roof leaks and wait until the weather is clear to check and repair the harms.
Have the Right Tools and Materials for Emergency Roof Repair
If you are planning to repair your roof on your own, you must have the right tools and materials to complete the job efficiently. Fixing a roof leak with duct tape or likely material is not right. Using the wrong materials or tools for an emergency roof repair can cause serious damages to your roof and yourself (in some cases). Make sure the tools and materials don’t cause any damage to you and are the perfect fit to avoid leaks and other roofing problems. If a roof leak or other problem is difficult to handle on your own, you should hire a reliable emergency roof repair company to get the job done proficiently.
Inspect Your Roof Carefully
Most people think that the leak over a carpet is coming from a hole, straight over the carpet. But it is possible that water leaking from the roof is flowing from another source or hole that is invisible. That’s why make sure to check the roof for all clear and hard-to-see leaks. Using a hose is a good idea to point out the roof leaks that are unseen. Once the weather is clear, go over the roof and have a quick roof inspection to see if there are any new damages or leaks caused by the weather. If there are some minor leaks, follow the basic DIY roof leak repairs. But if there are major harms to your roof, be quick to contact professional roofing contractors in your area that offer reliable emergency roof repair services.
Your Roof is not The Only Thing to Inspect
A hole in the roof is not the only cause of water leakage. There might be other sources of leak that can damage your roof and overall personal property. If there are big water stains along your walls, then check out other areas like gutters for clogging. This will help you ensure the water is flowing from the roof properly and don’t damage your roof, and walls.
Consider Preventive Measures
If roof damage or leak in bad weather has led to a lot of water, you must perform the basic emergency roof repair to stop the puddle of water. Consider basic preventive measures to make you’re your roof doesn’t collect rainwater. For example, clogged gutters are one of the major causes of collected rainwater to put extra stress on your roofing system. This not only can damage your roof but can also cause foundation issues. Keeping debris off of your roof is another important preventive measure you should consider to prevent roof damage. Unattended debris can be dangerous for your roof as it causes shingles to rot or develop mold and mildew issues. Therefore, clean the gutters and keep the debris off on a regular basis especially when there is massive rain expected in your area.
Opt for Temporary Protection
As conducting emergency roof repairs in bad weather is not a good idea, you can opt for temporary protection to avoid major pitfalls. A quick protective cover or a temporary roof can help you prevent both internal and structural damage. If there is an uncontrollable puddle of water from the roof, make sure to shift all your expensive possessions and belongings to another safe area of the home.
Contact a Professional As Soon As You Can
Most DIY emergency roof repair tasks are temporary solutions. Once you are good at getting temporary protection or doing a quick fix to your roof, remember to contact local emergency roof repair contractors in your area to tackle the roofing issues properly. Experts at A to Z Construction are professionally trained and experienced to recommend and implement long-lasting roof repairs to extend the lifespan and quality of your roof. Along with fixing your roofing issues, they can also provide guidance and instructions on how you can prevent such roof damages or harm in the near future. You can make a quick call or fill out a contact form to get a free online quote related to any of your roofing projects.
Final Words
There are several emergency roof repair tasks and jobs you can perform safely. But there are some complicated and potentially dangerous jobs that can lead to injuries or other major damages when doing them yourself. So, leave those complex roof repairs to professionals as they are trained to tackle such issues expertly. Doing a proper search can help you find a reputable and licensed roofing company in your town. Just hire a professional roofing contractor and save time, money, and headaches in the long run.
