Understanding Your Roof Replacement Estimate – Part 2

Understanding Your Roof Replacement Estimate - Part 1

RIDGE VENT

All roofs need to be vented to allow moisture to escape and prevent damage to the roof and the entire home. There are several types of roof ventilation systems. The most popular are ridge vents. They are installed along the ridge or peak of the roof and allow hot air to escape and draw cool air in the soffit vents.

A detailed roof replacement estimate will include which type and style of vent is going to be installed. Ridge vents come in several styles to match the home, shingle design, and homeowner’s preference as to how much they stand out or blend in with the rest of the new roof.

CHIMNEY CRICKET

If the home has a chimney, a professional roofing contractor may recommend installing a cricket if there isn’t one already. A cricket is a peaked construction at the back of a chimney to help prevent snow and ice build-up and to deflect water around the chimney.

PIPES AND FANS

Pipes and fans on the roof should be addressed in the estimate. These are vents that allow air to escape the home from the attic, bathroom, or other household needs. A contractor will indicate how they will treat these during the project. Will they keep the same ones, replace with new pipes or recommend a different type of ventilation or fan.

GUTTERS

When replacing a roof, it is a good time to consider replacing gutters as well. Either on your request or their recommendation, an option for gutter replacement may appear on the estimate. It may specify the length in feet, type of material, the type of construction (seamless, sectional), the size or width in inches and the size of the downspouts that will be used. Gutter estimates may include leaf protection, which is a covering that allows water to flow and keeps leaves and other debris from causing clogs in the gutter and downspouts.

SOFFIT & FASCIA

Often replacing soffit and fascia will be recommended.

Fascia – Connects the roof to the soffit, where gutters are attached.

Soffit – Covers the underside of the roof overhang.

Both of these play a large part in protecting the structure of the home.

PLYWOOD & SHEATHING

Under all the underlayment, ice & water shield and shingle material is the decking. This is the wood that makes the solid structure of the rooftop. During a roof replacement project, it may be discovered that some of this decking has been damaged and needs to be replaced. A roofing contractor may indicate this expense in different ways. If they see obvious damage they will note that in the estimate and the type of material that will be used. This could be plywood, Luan or other coverings. However, sometimes this damage is hidden until the replacement project has begun. Some contractors will also include the additional costs that may be incurred if a problem is found.

WARRANTIES

Most roof replacement estimates will mention warranties and guarantees with limitations and for a specific number of years.

Manufacturers’ warranties usually offer coverage when there is a defect in the roofing material that causes leaks under normal conditions. A manufacturer’s coverage will typically cover the cost of replacing the materials, not the labor to do so. They also do not cover replacing the entire roof, just repairing or replacing the defective areas.

Manufacturers’ warranties often exclude damage due to pre-existing conditions of the roof. If the shingles were installed improperly or the roof structure and gutter design was faulty, coverage may be denied. Many warranties are prorated, meaning the longer the roof is on your home the less coverage you have.

Manufacturers may recognize quality professionals that they trust. These contractors may be able to offer additional or extended manufacturers’ warranties.

Be sure to understand the coverage and limitations of a manufacturer’s warranty before using it to make your roofing decisions.

While a good warranty to cover defects is important, choosing your roofing contractor is as much so.

Manufacturers’ warranties do not cover problems arising from installation. This is where a workmanship guarantee comes in.

A workmanship guarantee is offered by the contractor and covers all defects related to installation work only. A qualified contractor will know what type of material to use on your roof and how to install it properly, reducing the possibility of roof leakage. Your contractor will also recognize potential problems such as structure, drainage and ventilation issues and address those ahead of time so they won’t damage your new shingles in the future. A reputable contractor will offer a labor warranty to cover any issues that may arise for additional peace of mind.

When considering your new roof investment, be sure to look at the coverage warranties offer and especially the quality and knowledge of the company installing them.

Understanding Your Roof Replacement Estimate – Part 2 first appeared on:

Mountain State Roofing
12 Broadway
Denver, CO 80203
(303) 816-3693
https://goo.gl/UpFF0l

Why You Need to Maintain your Roof

If you want to keep your home in good condition, maintaining it is important. You only have to neglect your home for a couple of years for serious issues to develop.

Not maintaining your home is normally a false economy. Take for example your roof. If you do not maintain it properly, water can easily get into the fabric of your building. When water gets into the fabric of a building, you are in big trouble.

Water does a huge amount of damage. It can lead to mould, which destroys all kinds of materials and is very bad for your health. Mould in a home can lead to respiratory infections and allergies, which, over time, only get worse.

In addition, damp can lead to wood rotting, metal rusting and can even cause certain kinds of bricks and cements to crumble. A building can literally fall apart over the course of a few years.

Get your roof checked regularly

To avoid these issues you should check your roof regularly. Ever month or so take the time to step back and look up at your roof. You are looking for loose or cracked tiles. Look along the apex of the roof to see if any cement is missing from the area under the ridge tiles.

Also, look for moss. Moss needs a constantly damp environment to grow and thrive. If you see moss, the chances are you have a problem area on your roof. Even if there is no leak yet, over time the build up of dirt and moss can open up cracks in your tiles.

If you find any signs of damage, call a professional. They will visit your property and investigate the problem then give you an estimate. The majority of roofing contractors in Denver and other parts of metro area will visit and carry out an inspection free of charge or for a very small fee.

Why You Need to Maintain your Roof first appeared on:

Mountain State Roofing
12 Broadway
Denver, CO 80203
(303) 816-3693
https://goo.gl/UpFF0l

Replace Your Roof with Natural and Quality Materials

Replacing a roof on your home is not a task you want to do. However, it is expected that most homeowners will face this challenge at some point. Choose natural materials that are good for the environment and those of high-quality to ensure you don’t have to make as many repairs or replacements while you own your home. Several options exist for you to choose from.

Clay Tile

One eco-friendly option is clay tile. It is made from natural clay and hardened to be durable. It comes in many styles from a Spanish look to designs that mimic slate or wood shakes. It is long-lasting, but can break if it becomes brittle. It has good resistance to fire and moderate resistance to wind. Clay tiles are best used on steep sloped roofs.

Clay tile is designed to last 50 years or more, which will reduce its initial cost in the long term. You may want to consider how long you will live in your home as to whether clay tile is the best option for you.

Slate

Slate has been around for a long time for roofs and adds an attractive look to any home. It is made from natural slate rock and is designed to be long-lasting. This material is highly resistant to both wind and fire and seldom needs replacement. The one downside to this material is that it more expensive than other options. Slate is heavy and also requires professional installation for roof replacement in CO.

Since slate is designed to last 75 years or longer, the initial investment is recouped over time and makes it almost as inexpensive in the long run as other materials. However, many homeowners today do not own their homes for that many years.

Wood Shingles and Shakes

Another natural material, wood has also been used in roofs for many years. They are not as long-lasting as other materials but are resistant to wind and fire resistant if coated with a fire retardant. They add a stylish look to a home, but require occasional maintenance to increase their lifespan. Typically, wood shingles and shakes last between 15 and 25 years, which may be as long as you plan to own your home.

Recycled Shingles

One of the most eco-friendly options is not exactly natural but it is good for the environment. Recycled shingles are made from waste materials that can include rubber, wood fiber and even plastic. They are manufactured from both residential and commercial waste and are very durable. They look nice, so no one would ever know they came from waste materials. They can last for many years, and some even have warranties of up to 50 years.

When choosing roofing for your home, you can find natural materials that are eco-friendly as well as high-quality to last for many years. Talk to a roof professional to help you decide which option is best for your style of home and the area where you live.

Replace Your Roof with Natural and Quality Materials first appeared on:

Mountain State Roofing
12 Broadway
Denver, CO 80203
(303) 816-3693
https://goo.gl/UpFF0l

Choosing A Great Roofing Contractor In Denver

Roof of the house includes a special property that need considering. It can’t be excessively heavy by weight neither voluminous by size. Yet it needs to be as sturdy because the walls of the home. It doesn’t only need to withstand the vagaries of nature, but additionally face the vitality of nature. Snow, hailstorm, high-speed winds. These are the good examples to focus on this time. The rooftop design and lounging work has therefore to become entrusted to specialists in this subject. Choosing a great roofing contractor therefore entails some research. This type of look for roofing contractor review Denver would surely bring the individual for this company site.

Why choose the Denver roofing contractor?

Using its lengthy experience in this subject, the organization has acquired understanding which will come to get affordable stead for that customer. Using top quality material and manpower for that work, ensures customer will get durability. Reassurance is definitely an assured finish benefit by choosing the corporation. This is true not for one new installation or construction but in addition for dependence on substitute of existing roof. While there’s no compromise in man and material being offer work, it doesn’t mean through the roof cost being billed. The organization supplies a affordable roof substitute Denver solution because of its clients. Something that will help clients choose this roofing contractor is the fact that jobs are not subcontracted. The organization utilizes experts in the area of house roofing, who’re within their direct payroll.

Existence of the roofing contractor

With the organization getting a lasting office within the locality clients are assured of ongoing services. Clients trying to find a Denver roofing company that gives a guarantee for his or her work do not need to look any more. This can be a one-stop place for those needs in relation to the process of the rooftop of the home. Not just a online presence, however a real physical office with phone number etc could be acquired of the organization. The organization can also be registered with authorised Local chamber of Commerce and Bbb. Would go to prove the authenticity and standing of the organization on the market.

Pre-contract services offered

On approaching the organization using the work requirement, experts would go to the site to check on for actual requirement. Clients would get suggestions and suggestions following the assessment jobs are done. This is provided free of charge basis. Intention would be to assist the customer understand and savor the particular work involved. After the client continues to be convinced concerning the work package would the price estimate be labored out. Yet without any financial obligation in the customer the estimate could be submitted. It is just after customer finalises the choice to undertake the job would the chargeable deliveries commence. The organization doesn’t need any deposit of cash from customer, prior commencement of labor. Total charges from the work are calculated at finish of task finished. It might never vary in almost any great amount in the estimate presented to the client.

Choosing A Great Roofing Contractor In Denver first appeared on:

Mountain State Roofing
12 Broadway
Denver, CO 80203
(303) 816-3693
https://goo.gl/UpFF0l

The decision to repair the roof and guttering when selling your home

You’ve made the decision to sell your home and now you’re looking to put it on the market. You know your roof is in need of repair after a few leaks last winter and the guttering looks worse than ever. So do you go ahead and repair the roof and guttering or sell it as it is?

One of the first things a potential buyer will look at when viewing your home is the exterior. It’s the first thing they will see and will be the first impression they are left with. A shabby roof in need of repair will automatically get flagged up not only by the estate agent who will value your home but also potential buyers. Who really wants to have to do repairs such as roofing and guttering when moving into a new house? Any potential cash house buyer will likely go with a house in need of little or no repair so you don’t want to minimize your chances of getting a fast home sale.

Having a good look up there would be the best place to start. Seeing what shape your roof and guttering is in will give you an idea of what needs doing and how much it’s going to cost you. Will the cost of repairing both be beneficial in the overall value of your home? Quite simply yes a shabby roof and guttering can knock $1000's off your overall value! Considering a new roof and guttering would estimate at around $2000 it makes sense to replace or repair your roof which could cost as little as $100. It makes sense to try and fix the repairs and clean up rather than leave it to chance of a buyer not minding the repairs. Remember the longer you have your home on the market the more cost you occur and the reputation of your home sell ability falls.

A clean roof in good condition and clean working guttering is an important asset for your home to display if you are looking for a quick house sale. Doing the work your self will no doubt be the inexpensive option and a great deal of internet sites have how to do videos which will show you step by step instructions. Obviously depending on the degree of repair needed you may need to hire professionals to fix and repair at a cost. Bearing in mind a shabby roof and guttering can knock $1000's off what your home could be worth it may be needed for you to pay a little to save a lot in the long run. Your home will thank you for it as having a leaking roof or broken guttering can lead to damp which is another off to potential fast house sale buyers.

The decision to repair the roof and guttering when selling your home first appeared on:

Mountain State Roofing
12 Broadway
Denver, CO 80203
(303) 816-3693
https://goo.gl/UpFF0l

5 Signs You Need To Repair Or Replace Your Roof

Most Homeowners figure out that they need a new roof after they discover a leak in their roof. There are numerous reasons for a roof to be leaking. It could be anything from storm damage to defective materials or just the age of the roof. Be that as it may, what it really comes down to is whether or not a small repair will fix the problem. In some cases it just may be time for a new roof.

Here are a few tips to help you determine if it can be repaired or if you'll need a new roof:

1. Replace the shingles or contract somebody to do it. Search for Damaged Or curling shingles and any indications of wear and tear.

2. Examine the drainage, remove waste and ensure canals and downspouts are clear from obstructions. Also, make sure the downspouts are routing the water away from the foundation.

3. Discolored , Curling or missing shingles leave basic wood powerless to roofing, gaps and other harm.

4. If you put your home available the roof will be the most noticeable, and a standout among the most essential elements of the house: an ineffectively adapted roof could prevent your home from being sold.

5. You notification a spongy feel or trampoline bounce when strolling on the roof, which implies the fundamental decking is debilitated from dampness. Check your upper room to check whether there is any sunlight getting through the roof sheets. Additionally check for dampness in the protection.

The inquiry whether to fix or totally replace your Arvada roof is a relative one and ought to be replied by material experts. They will have the capacity to let you know precisely the amount more your roof can withstand and if a basic patch is all that you have to proceed with your everyday life.

A new roof is a major cost yet ought to last you for quite a long time. Do it right and you’ll have one less thing to stress over when tempest winds blow. In the long haul, you’ll likewise wind up with more cash in your pocket.

5 Signs You Need To Repair Or Replace Your Roof first appeared on:

Mountain State Roofing
12 Broadway
Denver, CO 80203
(303) 816-3693
https://goo.gl/UpFF0l

Post Winter Inspection: Does Your Roof and Guttering Still Make the Grade?

Colorado enjoys a wonderful temperate climate, but our homes are still regularly subjected to the forces of nature, testing the very limits of even the sturdiest constructions.

One of the most important structural components of any home is the roof and guttering, which together, ensure your home stays dry and secure in even the most extreme weather. But time and damage can eventually result in this waterproof barrier being breached, leading to serious structural damage.

Spring is a great time to inspect for signs of roof and gutter damage

A good practice for every homeowner is to regularly inspect the roof and guttering for signs of weather damage or age related deterioration, and the perfect time to do it is spring. The skies are clear, and the ravages of winter storms are gone for another year.

Roofing and guttering generally last many years, but when weather related damage or deterioration begins, the external signs that indicate something is wrong can often be quite subtle despite significant, but hidden structural damage already developing.

Structural damage from a leaking roof or failing guttering system can result in permanent damage to foundations, roof and wall timbers; irreversible ceiling, internal wall and carpet damage; water penetration into electrical wiring and light fittings; and even a complete or partial ceiling collapse.

In most cases, a self inspection can be done from ground level, but for a proper assessment, you may need to get a closer look from a ladder. Inspecting attached carports, verandahs and room extensions can also be done from ground level, but it is much more accurate from the roof.

If you don’t feel comfortable about climbing ladders, or you would like a professional opinion about the condition of your roof or guttering, we would be more than happy to send one of our trained Roof Technicians to conduct an obligation free inspection.

Gutters

Early Symptoms: Dirty marks may be seen forming on the timber beneath the gutter. You may also see rusted nails, a tell-tale sign that moisture is trapped behind the timber.

To the untrained eye, these symptoms may seem like a problem originating in the timber, but they are almost always caused by a leaking corner or join in the gutter. These subtle marks can take up to 20 years before they begin to appear, and may seem relatively harmless, but beneath the surface there is a potential catastrophe unfolding.

The continuous seepage of water from the gutter becomes trapped behind the soffit and fascia. Because of the absorbent nature of timber, the trapped moisture is drawn into the fibers of the timber causing wood rot. This fungal disease completely destroys the structural integrity of the timber, eventually causing it to collapse, often without warning.

Point to remember: If you see dirty-marks or water-marks on your fascia or soffit, and it’s near a join or a corner of your gutters, you can be almost certain that water is leaking from your gutters.

Advanced Symptoms: Advanced symptoms of rusted guttering and water damage can become very obvious after only just a few years of constant leaking.

Once guttering has reached a stage where it has rusted through and falling off the fascia, it not only becomes completely ineffective at channeling water away from your home, there is also the very real risk of it collapsing and causing physical injury.

The longer guttering is left in this state, the more extensive the damage to your property. Water running into the foundations of your home can create serious structural problems. Timber fascia’s and scotia can become so damaged by wood rot that they will all need replacing. There is even the risk that wood rot can spread into major timber structures such as the ends of roof trusses.

Guttering is like any maintenance problem in your home. The longer you leave it the more damage it is going to cause, and the more complex the problem becomes.

If you can see rusty guttering, water dripping under carports and verandahs, or there is any evidence of water damage to timberwork, you know that urgent attention is required to prevent serious structural damage. It really is time to call in the experts.

Iron Roof

Signs of Rust: The first thing to look for on an iron roof is signs of rust. At first, there may not be any obvious patches of rust, simply a dark or rusty looking streak appearing on the roof surface. Even the smallest indicator is a sign of a much larger problem. By the time rust finally breaks through, there is usually a large part of the iron that has been compromised by sub-surface rust.

Loose Nails or TekScrews

Keep a look out for missing or raised roofing nails or tek screws. If you spot one, then you can almost be sure there will be more, particularly on old roofs that are fixed with roofing nails. Even if the roof looks in place despite the odd missing nail or screw, there is a strong risk of leaks as the roof is no longer sealed. There is also the risk that wind can get under the sheet and lift it off the roof altogether, and without warning.

It goes bang in the night

At times, you may also be able to hear the occasional tell-tale sounds of a sheet of iron banging in strong wind, or when the wind direction is coming from an unusual direction. The banging will confirm that one or more sheets are unsecure and need to be fixed quickly to prevent damage to your home.

It is very rare that an issue with an iron roof is localized to one area. Once symptoms begin to show in one area, it’s only a matter of time before they show across the entire roof. The most effective solution is to replace the roof before water leaks lead to structural damage.

Tiled Roof

Tiled roofs are amazingly durable, but they do deteriorate over time due to the suns relentless baking over many years. There is also movement caused through the roofs own weight, and expansion and contraction of supporting timbers due to daily temperature variations, particularly in summer.

So what do you need to look out for?

Loose ridge capping and broken mortar

The sight of ridge caps that have moved and mortar that has been partially or completely displaced is a common sign that the roof is in need of repair. Not only is the risk of leaks high, but if an unsecure ridge cap was to suddenly slide down the roof in heavy rain, serious flooding could occur from just one rain event.

Cracked tiles

A cracked tile is a certain cause of roof leaks. Often, the tile will be cracked the full width of its surface, particularly if someone has stood on the unsupported center. There may also be seemingly harmless cracks or breaks across the corner of a tile. Both will leak and need to be replaced.

Cracked tiles can be hard to spot, and may appear to be nothing more than a dark line across the surface. Over time, the crack will continue to open as the tile separates, turning a few drips into a serious leak.

Mold and grime covered surface

During the inspection, you may notice that your tiled roof is becoming covered in mold and grime, which seems to get a little worse each year. While this won’t cause your roof to leak, it is very unhealthy if you use the collected water to drink or wash clothes and dishes. A roof in this state is covered in pathogens and fungal spores. As the coating of mold and grime worsens, the self-cleaning characteristics of the tile are lost and the surface becomes an organic layer.

Restoring your roof to its former glory

Most tiled roofs eventually reach a point where most, if not all of the symptoms we have just discussed are visible, indicating that it’s time to do something about it. Fortunately, it is possible to restore a tiled roof to its former glory aesthetically and functionally. To find out more, take a look at our Roof Restoration page.

Structural damage to timbers

A hidden but serious problem is damage to the concealed structural timber supporting the roof. This can be indicated by a localized sag in a part of the roof, or just a lack of uniformity in the overall appearance of the roof. Tiled roofs are extremely heavy compared to an iron roof, so when structural timbers like roof trusses are damaged – such as through White Ant infestation or Wood Rot – the load is forced onto other timbers, creating an ever expanding structural problem.

While timber repairs to the existing tiled roof are possible, many homeowners preferred solution is to have the tiled roof converted to an iron roof.

Spotted a roof or guttering problem?

If you have spotted a roof or guttering problem, and would like a professional opinion, you are welcome to make an appointment with one of our Roof Technicians. The inspection is obligation free, and gives you the opportunity to have an expert assess the problem.

If it needs fixing or replacing, they can advise you of what needs to be done, and the available options. They will also give you a written report following the inspection, which includes any costs involved to repair or replace your roof.

Post Winter Inspection: Does Your Roof and Guttering Still Make the Grade? first appeared on:

Mountain State Roofing
12 Broadway
Denver, CO 80203
(303) 816-3693
https://goo.gl/UpFF0l