A Guide To Roof Parts And Roofing Shingles

 

Parts of a roof frame 

Below is a coverage of the parts of a roof frame.

Ridge board

A ridge board is a horizontal board that connects the rafters on opposite sides of your roof frame to form a peak. The ridge board is the highest point of your roof frame.

Rafters

Rafters are a series of sloped wooden or metal beams that run from the roof’s ridge to the edge of the roof. Rafters are parts of a roof frame that support the roof deck, shingles, and other external roofing materials. 

Ceiling joists

Ceiling joists are a series of structural beams that run horizontally between the rafters on opposite sides of the roof frame. The ceiling joists are parts of a roof frame that provide the framework required to attach and support the ceiling.

Collar ties

Collar ties are horizontal beams used to connect opposing rafters to prevent ridge separation from extreme winds. They are installed in the upper one-third section of the roof frame near the ridge.

Tail 

The tail is the part of the rafter that stretches out beyond the wall of your building. These are the parts of a roofing frame that form the eaves. 

Fascia

The fascia is a horizontal beam that is attached to the edge of your rafters to conceal the eaves and protect your home from harsh weather elements.


5 Best Roof Maintenance Tips For Homeowners - A Complete Guide

When it comes to roof maintenance, it is important to keep your roof in the best possible shape, so that it lasts and protects your home for years to come. If you don't keep your roof in good condition, it can lead to costly repairs down the road. Roof maintenance is essential no matter what type of roof is on your home.

Likewise, with the right knowledge, you can save a lot of money on repairs and replacements. So it's important to keep your roof in good condition by performing timely inspections and maintenance. This avoids costly roof repairs and possibly even a roof replacement.

If you want to maintain your roof, it is important to know what to look for and how to inspect it on a regular basis. That's where this guide comes in, here in this article we'll provide you with a complete overview of the best roof maintenance tips to keep your roof in excellent condition, saving you time and money in the long run.

Tips For Maintenance Roof

1. Routine Inspections

To ensure that your roof is in good condition, it is necessary to perform routine inspections on a regular basis. The best time to perform routine inspections is when the weather is not too hot or cold as this gives you the most accurate assessment of your roof’s condition. In addition, this can help you identify potential issues before they turn into bigger problems.

2. Get a Professional Roof Inspection

One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is not getting a professional roof inspection. If you want a safe roof, you need to get a professional roof inspection. A professional roof inspection will show you if there are any leaks, signs of water damage, and if there are any cracks in your roof. Surely, they will be able to spot potential problems you may have  missed. Most companies offer free roof inspections and they can provide you with invaluable tips for maintaining your roof.

3. Clean the Leaves and Other Debris From Gutters & Roof

In addition to keeping your roof in great condition, it’s important to keep your gutters and your roof free of any debris.This includes leaves and other loose materials that can fall on your roof and cause damage. If you have a gutter system on your roof, you will need to keep it clean. A clogged gutter can lead to water damage and leaks. So it's also very important to clean your gutters regularly for a free-flowing drainage system.

4. Ensure Strong Insulation

Insulation is the most important factor for any homeowner. A properly insulated roof will protect your home from the harmful effects of cold temperatures and excessive rain, which in turn can cause damage to the roof itself. Insulation helps your roof to maintain its integrity and prevent it from leaking.

5. Preventive Measures for Moss, algae, and Lichens

Moss, lichen, and algae are all types of plants that can grow on your roof. In other words, these plants usually start to grow when the weather becomes warm and humid and can be found in shady areas of your roof. You can remove moss, lichen, and algae from your roof by hiring a professional roof cleaning service. Apply preventative products containing zinc and copper once your roof is clean and dry to prevent moss, lichen, and algae from growing again.

Benefits of Maintaining Your Roof

If you follow a proper roof maintenance schedule, it will truly benefit in the long term. A properly maintained roof will:

Enhances the Safety of the Home

The biggest benefit to maintaining your roof is that it will improve your home’s appearance and enhance safety. Your roof will be able to withstand any harsh conditions like extreme weather, heavy rainfall, extreme heat, and also extreme cold.

Saves Money

Another advantage of maintaining your roof is that it saves you money. If you wait until there is roof damage that has been unattended, the costs are much greater than making small repairs when they arise. Also, you can avoid expensive roof replacement costs.

Extended Roof Life 

Extended roof life is one of the main benefits of having a well-maintained roof. If you don't maintain your roof properly, you could end up spending a lot of money replacing it in the future.

All in all, roof maintenance is essential to ensure your roof lasts for many years to come. So if you want to keep your roof in the best possible condition, be sure to schedule routine inspections and maintenance to avoid costly repairs and replacements.

So hopefully, after reading this article, you now know what to look for and how to perform the required maintenance tasks for your roof. Furthermore, if you've any questions on roof repairs, replacements or would like to schedule a free roof inspection, just give us a call.


Pros & Cons of Silicone Roofing

What are the Pros & Cons of Silicone Roofing

Whether you're building a new roof, renovating an old one, or replacing a roof on your commercial property, a silicone roof coating could be an option. Silicone roofing may save you money and can be very beneficial.

Silicone roofing is ideal for preserving your existing roof and preventing any damage that might occur over time. They are lightweight, durable, and easy to apply. Plus, they look great and provide UV protection, making silicone roofing an excellent choice for any commercial and residential space.

If you are in the market for a new commercial silicone roofing system, you need to know the pros and cons. We've put together a list of the pros and cons so you can make the decision that's right for you. 

Without further ado, let's get started!

What is Silicone Roofing?

Silicone roofing is a form of non-stick coating that is made from a combination of polysiloxane and silicon resin. It is cost-effective, water-resistant, and flexible. Due to its anti-UV ray coating, it is ideal for protecting your roof. It can be applied by using a spray gun or roller in order to fill in gaps, blisters, and stitchings. Moreover, the coating is available in various colors and is designed to enhance the look of natural slate or tile.

PROS of Silicone Roofing

Resistance to Ponding Water

A big problem with the use of traditional roofing is ponding, as the water can build up between the seams and can damage the shingles. This problem can be solved by applying silicone roofing which allows the water to be repelled by the roof and not pool. Moreover, It can be removed easily, so you don't have to worry about damage.

Flexibility & Weatherproofing

Flexibility and weatherproofing are two important benefits of silicone roof coating. Silicone roofing is very flexible, so it can be installed on curved roofs. It can be used in areas that are prone to heavy winds and strong rainstorms. 

High Solids Content

Due to its high solid content, silicone roofing offers the highest level of performance, durability, and aesthetics. As a result, it can last for many years without any damage.

Cost-Effective

In fact, the silicone roof coating is cost-effective. In comparison to other roofing options, silicone roofing is much cheaper. In addition, It is a long-lasting option because it does not need to be replaced frequently.

Reduce Cooling Costs

It is common for flat commercial roofs to receive full sun exposure, which could lead to an increase in indoor temperatures. With silicone roofing, your roof will stay cool inside and be insulated from the sun. 

Short Project Duration

In general, the installation of silicone roof coating generally takes very little time. Therefore, it is a great choice for commercial roofs.

It is Eco-Friendly

Silicone roofing is non-toxic, non-flammable, and has no harmful emissions. Thus, it is considered to be eco-friendly and environmentally safe. 

Cons of Silicone Roofing

Gets Dirty

A silicone roof easily attracts dirt and dust. That's why it needs regular maintenance. Also, once the dirt begins to accumulate it can cause the roof to lose its reflective properties over time. In order to prevent dirt and dust accumulation, it is highly recommended to clean your silicone roof coating six months or one year after it has been installed.

An Improper Installation Could Damage Your Existing Roof

If the silicone roofing is installed improperly, it could peel off the roof tiles. Moreover, an improper installation could result in leaking or water seepage, and in the end, you will have to replace your roof with a new one. 

Wet Conditions Make Silicon Roofing Very Slippery

As a result of their hydrophobic properties, it becomes extremely slippery when wet. Actually, this can cause serious accidents and injuries. And can be a major problem if you live in a place with heavy rainfall. In such a case, it is highly recommended to use a silicone roof coating that is specially designed for wet conditions.

 

Silicone roofing is a cost-effective, flexible, eco-friendly, and water-resistant solution for l roofs. Consider applying silicone roofing on your roof to help to protect it from damage, reduce cooling costs, and make your roof more energy efficient. 

Hopefully, this article helped you understand more about silicone roofing. If you have any additional questions, feel free to contact us. We will be happy to assist you with your silicone roofing decision.


What is the cost of repairing a roof leak?

Cost of Repairing a Roof Leak

Have you noticed water puddles in your artic, stains on your ceiling, or a dumpy smell in your home? Your roof might be leaking. To keep your family safe and protect your home, have your leaking roof repaired. Read on and learn more about roof leak repair costs

The average cost of repairing a roof leak in Atlanta

The average cost of repairing a leaking roof is between $2 and $30 per square foot. However, the cost varies depending on the following factors:

The extent of the damage

It is impossible to know the exact damage caused by your leaking roof. If your roof has been leaking for a while, the damage might be extensive, and the roof leak repair cost might be high. If it’s impossible to repair your roof, you might need a replacement, and you are likely to spend an average of $80 per square foot.

If you are experiencing moderate leaking that requires patching or shingle replacement, you might spend $7.50 per square foot. For minor leaks, you will probably pay $1.50 per square foot.

The type of roofing material

The type of roofing materials also determines the cost of roof leak repair. If you have a slate roof, you can pay between $2.50 and $10 per square foot, depending on the extent of the damage. In case your slate roof needs flashing, it might cost more.

Contact with an expert for a roof leak

Repairing an asphalt shingle roof can cost $1.50 to $5.00 per square foot. The cost varies depending on the extent of the damage. For instance, replacing underlayment and relaying shingles is more expensive than replacing a few worn-out shingles.

 

For a clay tiled roof, you are likely to pay an average cost of $5 per square foot. If you need to repair a more extensive roof section, it costs $3 to $7 per square foot. To repair a leaky cedar roof, you’ll spend an average of $8 per square foot, but you might spend more if the damage is extensive.

Location of the leak

The leak's location on your roof might also influence the total cost of the repairs. If the leak is in an area that roofer can easily access, you can pay $1.50 to $2.50 per square foot. However, if the leak is located in a position that might require more inspection or specialized equipment, the leaking roof repair cost might be $5 per square foot and above.

Labor cost

The labor cost in your local area also affects your roof leak repair cost. The average hourly rate is $ 4.5 to $7.5per square foot, but the rate is higher in some areas. Search "roof leak repair near me" for a more accurate cost estimate.


Why is paper felt important?

WHY ROOFING FELT IS IMPORTANT

Roofing Felt. Think of it as your roofing deck’s bodyguard. Roofing felt is important because it acts as a barrier- a line of defense-between your roofing deck and the elements. If you’ve ever passed by a roofing project, you surely noticed the black paper sheet on the roof before the shingles are applied. This protective barrier is known as roof underlayment. Roofing felt is one type of roofing underlayment and it extends the life of your roof by protecting it from water, fire, and severe weather. Many building codes and professional organizations, such as the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) strongly recommend the use of roofing underlayment for every project. Not only is roofing felt important for the protection of your home, but it also adds to the aesthetics, ensuring a uniform look. Let’s look at some of the benefits of roofing felt.

BENEFITS OF ROOFING FELT

ACTS AS A WATER REPELLANT

Nature’s elements can wreak havoc on your roof. Roofing felt is important because it repels water preventing moisture from getting trapped between shingles and roofing deck wood. Moisture damage is detrimental to your roof because it causes leaks, water damage and mold. The layer of paper felt helps the water drain off your roof and prevents leaks into your home.

PROTECTS ROOF DECK DURING INSTALLATION

Many times, it takes a while for the roof to be complete. During the installation process, roofing felt protects the wood until the shingles can be applied.

KEEPS SHINGLES UNIFORM

Roof decks are not always straight. Roof felt is important when it comes to keeping the surface uniform prior to applying the shingles. This prevents bumps and imperfections which can not only compromise the roof, but creates a “picture framing” effect, or the pattern of your decking showing abnormalities through the shingles.

PROTECTS AGAINST SNOW AND ICE

Snow and ice are especially hard on a roof. When piles of snow accumulate on the roof and then quickly melt, water may leak through the crevices of your roof. The extra protection that paper felt provides helps to protect insulation, ceilings, and walls from the water that pools on your roof.

FIRE PROTECTION

Roofing felt has a Class A Fire Rating which means that it can withstand fires. Shingles alone may not meet the Class A Fire Requirements. ASTM International or Canadian Standards Association (CSA) on the product label means that the felt is compliant and often comply with building codes.

LOWERS HOMEOWNER’S INSURANCE RATES

Because of roofing felt’s Class, A Fire Rating insurance rates are typically lower for homes that have use roofing felt.

PREVENTS WOOD RESIN STAINS

Specific types of wood may leach resin over time. Roof felt’s protective barrier prevents this resin from staining your shingles.

WHAT IS PAPER FELT

As we stated, roofing underlayment lies between the roof deck and the shingles. There are two types of roofing underlayment, synthetic and paper felt. Paper felt is one of the oldest types of underlayment and has been used for decades. Over a hundred years ago when the manufacturing of paper felt began, cloth felt from recycled cotton was used to make asphalt felt. Today, paper felt is made from saturating paper or sawdust and recycled paper with asphalt. Paper felt costs less than synthetic underlayment and comes in two different types: No. 15 felt, and No. 30 felt. No. 15 felt weighs between seven and fourteen pounds per 100 square feet. No. 30 felt weighs 16.5 or 17 pounds. The ASTM D 4869 requires No. 15 felt to weigh at least 8 pounds per 100 square feet. ASTM D226 is a stricter standard, requiring a minimum of 11.5 pounds per square. If you have a steep pitch roof, use No. 30 felt, however if your roof is not steep, No. 15 will suffice. No. 15 paper felt is a more economical choice, however, it is not as thick as No. 30 paper felt. Overall No. 15 felt paper, is thicker, tears less during installation and offers better protection.

There are pros and cons to all roofing underlayment. When choosing the best underlayment for your roof, consider your geographic location, the weather in your area, your roof’s design, what roofing materials are being used, and your budget. Talk with your roofing contractor to determine the best option for your roof.


HOW TO REPLACE YOUR ROOF IN 5 EASY STEPS

HOW TO REPLACE YOUR ROOF EASILY?

A roof replacement may seem daunting. Whether you have storm damage to your roof, your roof is showing signs of damage such as missing shingles, or it’s simply reached the end of its lifespan, the decision to replace is one of the most important ones you will make as a homeowner. That’s why it’s important to consult with contractors who have years of experience before making any decisions. 

 

Universal Roofing & Construction is a fully licensed and insured commercial and residential roofing company. We have decades of experience in the construction and roofing industry. And we live where we work, so we take great measures to preserve our stellar reputation within the community.

 

Having knowledge of the roof replacement process before starting will not only help you make educated decisions on the roof replacement process, but it will save you time and money in the long run, protecting your investment for years to come. Here’s how to replace your roof in 5 easy steps!

 

  1. GET A FREE ROOF INSPECTION FROM A LICENSED & INSURED ROOFING COMPANY

 

Inspecting your roof twice a year for signs of damaged shingles or other roofing materials will extend the life of your roof and prevent costly repairs. The best way to get a professional opinion on whether to replace your roof is by calling a reputable roofing company, such as Universal Roofing & Construction, for a free roof inspection. Our roofing experts can assess the roof, check for chips, leaking, damage, or other wear and tear to determine if you need a roof replacement or just a roof repair. 

 

  1. DECIDE ON WHAT TYPE OF ROOF YOU WANT

 

So your roof inspection confirmed that you need a new roof. You will now want to start your research on the different types of roofs to determine which roof will work best for your home. Your roof makes up a large portion of the exterior of your home and plays a big part in the curb appeal. Choosing an aesthetically pleasing and quality roof will increase the value of your home. When choosing a new roof, you’ll want to select roofing materials, such as asphalt shingles, metal roofing, clay tile, slate, or other materials. You’ll then choose the colors and shapes that work best with your roof slope and the architectural details of your home.

 

  1. CHOOSE A PROFESSIONAL ROOFING CONTRACTOR

 

It’s important to do your research when choosing a contractor to install your new roof. You’ll want to be sure the roofing contractor you choose is experienced, licensed in your area, insured, bonded, and willing to give you an estimate prior to starting the roof replacement. You don’t want any surprises once the roof replacement process begins. Ask your roofing expert to provide references as well. You will also want to ask your roofing contractor about any warranty offered.  

 

  1. INSTALLING YOUR NEW ROOF

 

When it is time to start your roof replacement process, your roofing contractor should have already pre-planned the entire process. The first thing your contractor will do is prepare the job site, including bringing a dumpster to prevent debris from cluttering your property. Next, your old roof will be removed, and the roof deck will be inspected. This allows your contractor to ensure your roof deck is in good condition without weakened areas. If there is damage to the deck, it will be repaired before the new roof is installed. Once the deck is prepared, your new roof will be installed, working from the bottom edges of the roof up. 

 

  1. CLEAN UP & FINAL INSPECTION

 

Congratulations! Your new roof is installed, and your home has a fresh makeover! Debris and waste should now be removed from your property. Your contractor will now take a final look at your new roof to ensure that it meets your expectations and that everything was installed correctly and up to local codes. 

 

ROOF REPLACEMENT PROCESS

 

           Now that you understand the roof replacement process, you can feel confident in moving forward with your roof replacement. From the initial roof inspection to installing your brand new roof, arming yourself with knowledge, researching qualified roofing contractors, and choosing the best materials for your homes ensures a seamless roof replacement process. 

 

REPLACE YOUR ROOF WITH THE BEST CONTRACTORS

 

The best decision you can make when replacing your roof is to hire a qualified roofing company to work on your home. In addition to being licensed and insured, Universal Roofing & Construction keeps all positions in-house to provide exceptional customer service from start to finish. We work alongside local vendors and manufacturers to provide you with a large selection of roofing materials and styles to match your budget and architectural style. In addition, at Universal Roofing & Construction, we guarantee our work, so you can feel confident in choosing us to replace your roof!

 

If you would like to schedule a free roof inspection call us today!


Pros and cons of asphalt shingle roofing

What are the Pros and cons of asphalt shingle roofing

The various types of asphalt shingle roofing have their benefits and disadvantages. We have listed a few of the pros and cons below.
3-tab shingles

Pros of asphalt shingle roofing

• Affordable—3-tab shingles are more affordable compared to other types of asphalt roofing. The average cost of a 3-tab shingle roofing costs about $0.90 for each square foot of the roofing.
• Durable—the lifespan of a 3-tab shingle is between 18 and 20 years.
• Easy to install—3-tab asphalt shingles take between 2-3 days to install
Cons
• Low aesthetic appeal- 3-tab shingles have limited aesthetic options due to their 3-tab design.
• Easily blown off- the 3-tab asphalt shingles can be easily blown off the roof during storms.
Dimensional shingles
Pros
• High aesthetic appeal—dimensional shingles can replicate wood shake or natural slate styles, which help to increase the curb appeal of the property.
• Durable—due to the double layers of asphalt used to design the dimensional shingles, they are durable and can last up to 30 years.
• Affordable—dimensional shingles cost about $4 per square foot installed.

Cons of asphalt shingle roofing

• Heavy—since dimensional shingles contain double layers, they are quite heavy and add a lot of weight to the roof.
• Costly—although dimensional shingles are not considered expensive, they cost 15 % more compared to 3-tab shingles.
Luxury shingles
Pros
• Moisture protection—luxury shingles are laminated, protecting the roof structures from moisture and water penetration.
• Durable—luxury shingles can last up to 50 years.
• Extra protection—due to their heavy nature, luxury shingles provide strength against impact and rough tears during a tornado or hurricane.
Cons
• Costly—luxury shingles are costly, almost double the price of dimensional asphalt shingles.
• Too heavy—luxury asphalt shingles are quite heavy and may exert a lot of weight on the building.
Which asphalt roofing would you like installed on your home? Get in touch with Universal Roofing today and talk to one of our roofing experts.


Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are among the commonly used residential roofing materials. Most people prefer asphalt shingle roofing for their homes because they are affordable, easy to install, and readily accessible. Additionally, asphalt shingle roofing requires minimal maintenance, and it can effectively protect a home against weather elements.

Types of asphalt shingle roofing

There are 3 main types of asphalt shingle roofing in the market today. Check them out below:

3-tab shingles

3-tab asphalt shingle roofing contains 3 tabs on each of the shingle strips, hence the name. The shingle roofing is made from a layer of asphalt, cut into various strips. 3-tab asphalt single roofing is flat, giving the roof a slanted look. The 3-tab shingle roofing is also known as asphalt strip shingles.

Dimensional shingles

Dimensional shingles are the most common asphalt shingle roofing. The roofing is also called laminate or architectural shingles. During the manufacturing process, dimensional shingles are added with two or more layers to produce a multidimensional thick appearance. According to the ARMA (asphalt roofing manufacturers association), dimensional shingles are among the most popular shingle roofing today.

Luxury shingles

Just as the name suggests, luxury shingles are the highest quality of asphalt shingle roofing. Luxury shingles are laminated to provide the home with maximum weather protection while adding aesthetic appeal to the property. If you are looking for asphalt shingle roofing that provides an accurate interpretation of slate or wood shake roofing, then luxury shingle roofing is the way to go.


How Often Does a Roof Need to Be Replaced?

How Often Does a Roof Need to Be Replaced?

Are you wondering how often you should replace your roof? If yes, wonder no more. This simple guide will help you know when to replace a roof and when to repair it.

How often should you replace a roof?

The material and the condition of the roof are the two most important factors to consider. There are other factors such as storm and snow damage, but these two are by far the most important. This is because snow and storm damage tend to affect older and run-down roofs more than those that are in good condition.

The roofing material

Typically, every material has a replacement period. When putting up a new roof, your manufacturer’s warranty includes maintenance schedules, warranty period, and the expected lifespan of the material. Asphalt shingles are not all made the same. Some will last just 10 years while others will be good for three decades. Metal roofs will generally last longer, and you may not replace them in your lifetime (or generally 50 years). Some, such as slate will last well over a century.

The age of the roof will guide you on how soon you can expect to change it. If you have a composition shingle roofing in its 8th year, you will need a new roof soon, preferably in the next 3-4 years. If you have a 15-year-old steel roof, you probably have another decade. If you have bought a house and you are wondering how often you will need a new roof, use the installation paperwork.

The condition of the roof

Irrespective of the material used, the condition of the roof will play a significant role in how often you need a new roof. If there are visible signs of water damage, holes in the roof, stains in the ceiling, sagging, evidence of mold, missing shingles, damaged flashing, or multiple instances of curling and buckling shingles, your roof probably needs to change.

Of course, you don't have to as how often to replace a roof if you have experienced storm damage, tree damage, or snow damage.

 

For all your roof replacement and installation needs, contact Universal Roofing.


How Long Does A Shingle Roof Last?

Part of your return on investment when installing or replacing your roof lies in the lifespan of the roof. To many homeowners, it means they receive uncompromised home protection for as many years as possible.

It is imperative to know how long you can expect the shingle roof to last. Typically, the average life of a shingle roof is 22 years, but it may go as high as 30 years.

The actual shingle roof lifespan varies based on several factors, such as your home environment and the type of roofing material used. Take, for instance, a popular roof shingle like the asphalt shingle.

What is the average asphalt roof lifespan?

Asphalt roof shingles are the most popular among many homeowners because they are extremely durable, affordable, and always come with great warranties. They can vary from dimensional, 3-tab, and luxury asphalt shingles.

So, how long does an asphalt roof last? With the correct installation and drainage, the shingle roof life of 3-tab shingles may range from 20 to 22 years and 25 to 28 years for dimensional shingles. Generally, these shingles come with a manufacturer warranty of between 25 and 30 years.

What affects your shingle roof life?

Shingle roof lifespan may vary based on these factors:

  • Installation workmanship: if you work with an inexperienced roofer, it inevitably leads to poor work, which shortens your roof’s lifespan. You will constantly dwell on repairs, accelerating your roof’s aging.
  • Quality of roof materials used: low-quality materials may be cheaper initially but a lot costlier due to frequent replacements. In the end, you may have to replace the entire roof.
  • Environmental conditions: if your home is always exposed to strong winds, extreme temperatures, or falling debris, your roof will take a harsher beating. It may not survive that for long.
  • Type of roofing material used: whether you have installed metal roofing, asphalt shingles, wood shakes, clay tiles, or slate tiles, their durability greatly varies. This ultimately affects their lifespan under different conditions.

Are you looking for industry-leading workmanship for all your roofing needs? Universal Roofing is your best bet. We take your roofing dreams to heart and turn them into a permanent reality. Ready to get started? Get in touch today!