Sun- Even in a sunny Colorado environment, the deteriorating ultraviolet rays can impact a Denver roof over time.
Wind- Forceful wind will peel back Denver roof shingles and other roof materials over time. The wind can push water, sediment, and other debris into and under the roofing system, which can promote serious damage. A qualified Denver roofer will inspect for wind damage to shingles, tiles, and other roof components.
Rain- Water causes rotting to a Denver, Colroado roof. When moisture or rainfall penetrates shingles, tiles, or other roof materials the roof decking can be damaged. Rain will also lead to mildew and other forms of water damage to a building or home.
Snow and Ice- Much like rainfall melting snow and ice can promote rot and damage a roof. Melting snow and ice will often refreeze at night leading to an ice damn. An ice damn will block a roof from draining properly. This ice accumulation can destroy gutters and downspouts.
Algae and Moss- Colorado roofs face heavy moisture, which builds upon algae and moss growth. Algae growth occurs in dark, wet, shaded areas of a roof. Moss will grow on wet tiles and roof shingles. Algae will stain and discolor a roof, while the moisture soaked moss can lead a roof into rot. Both algae and moss can ruin a roof’s deck causing costly water damage if left untreated.
Trees and Leaves- The leaves of trees will gather on a roof leading to rot, and retained moisture, which can cause water damage. The tree’s branches can also blow into a roof damaging shingles, tiles, vents, skylights, or other Denver roof systems. An accumulation of tree leaves may also block a gutter from performing its water shedding purpose.
You should always treat a Leaking Roof as an emergency. it can wreak havoc in your house in a very short time. Attend to any signs of a roof leak, such as water entry, stains or mold, immediately to limit damage. Locate the leak from inside and then take steps to control the damage until you can have a suitable outside inspection and repair done.
Just like you would call a plumbing comany for a leak with your pipes, I'd recommend you calling us also.
So... How can you control the damage?
Call Us At 303 697 5000
Control the damage
1 Water can travel on the underside of sheathing or down roof rafters before dropping off in one or more places. To control where it falls, tack a piece of string into the stream of water and let it hang into a bucket. The water will tend to follow the string.
2 Poke or drill a hole in your ceiling to let the water through. This technique prevents the water from spreading across the top of the ceiling to other areas; it prevents the ceiling from becoming saturated, eliminating the chance of collapse and often the need for replacement; and it allows you to collect water from below using the string-and-bucket method.
Yes, you can but it's not advisable. Shingles lose their granules over time. What you can easily wind up with is a splotchy looking roof. Keep them painted every few years, though and you'll be okay. Another thing, shingles are made so that there are variations in coloring. With a painted roof, there will be no variations. It will be all one color.
Do the roofers use staples or nails? (Roofing nails are preferable in high winds.)
How much is the extra charge for fixing damaged plywood or roof framing or roof trusses found under the existing roof?
Is the company insured and bonded?How long has the company been in business?
Will the company supply a list of addresses of recent jobs? (Do a drive-by to view the craftsmanship.)
How long is the warranty for labor and materials?
Does the price include ripping off the existing roof shingles?
Any Friends or Coworkers with a New Roof?
This is a good place to begin the search. Unpaid testimonials are better than any advertising. People part with a good deal of cash on a re-roofing project and they form definite opinions about the tradesmen who did the work. Things to ask:
Were the workers punctual?
Did the contractors clean up the work site?
Were the specified roofing materials used?
Check with the Better Business Bureau
It's always a good idea to check the with the BBB and other local organizations such as the Chamber of Commerce. They maintain a list of consumer complaints against local companies, including building contractors.
They should also tell an inquirer how each case was resolved. Just the fact that there has been a complaint is not sufficient for marking them off the short list. Do be aware of disturbing trends.
How to Select a Roof Contractor
Shingle roofs have an average lifespan of fifteen to twenty years. Metal will outlast shingles by thirty years or more! But the fact of the matter is that no roof is going to last forever; there comes a time when a roof repair job isn't sufficient. When it comes time to part with the old roof and re-roof with the new, the homeowner has to know how to select a roof contractor.
Roof construction is important to the integrity of the home. Accordingly, a homeowner shouldn't trust a roof installation to just any roofing contractor. Since re-roofing an individual home doesn't occur often, it's unlikely that the owner has a working relationship with a professional roofing contractor. Here are some tips for selecting one.
Finally, Go with Gut Feeling
There should be two or three roof contractors left on the list. Instinct is a great tool. Use it.
The condition of a home's roof is one of the most important factors in buying and selling a home. A roof protects the framework of the house, as well as the people living inside. It is important to know when and if a roof needs to be replaced.
Types
Several types of roofing materials are available, from asphalt to clay to metal. How long the roof lasts depends on the type of material the roof is made from.
Time Frame
According to the American Society of Home Inspectors, the longest lasting roof type is slate, which can last from 30 to 100 years. Asphalt can last 15 to 20 years, wood 10 to 40 years and clay 20 years or more. Metal lasts from 20 to 40 years or more. This can change depending on the climate and weather conditions.
Geography
The placement of the shingles can be a determining factor in the longevity of the roof. Sun exposure can shorten the lifespan of a roof, so north-facing shingles can last longer than south-facing shingles, which get more sun.
Identification
Look for signs that your roof needs to be repaired. Signs include missing, torn, or damaged shingles, the age of the roof and the condition of the walls inside the home that touch the roof (mainly water marks or rain spots). If weather in your area tends to be more extreme, your roof could age quicker.
Warning
Though roof replacement is expensive, the longer a homeowner waits, the more damage there may be to the house. If you suspect a roofing damage, you can call us for a free inspection, our number is 303 697 5000.
Examples of commonly used materials include asphalt shingle, wood shake, tile, and man made versions of these materials, or composite roofing. The materials used on a roof are determined by many things, such as the home design, structural strength, cost, neighborhood covenants, local building ordinances, climate you live in, and homeowner preference. If you do need suggestions or advice, you can always call us at 303 697 500, we'll be happy to consult you through the process.
There's also other man made materials such as: tile, metal, and other man made materials that cost more, but also tend to be the most durable. Traditional materials such as asphalt shingles and wood shakes are usually less expensive but not quite as durable. Since we live in Colorado, and we have four seasons of weather; you might want to put some serious thought into your next roof. You may save now, but you could end up paying more later. Composite roofing is a very durable material, and is often low maintenance and low in price.
Whether you are building a new home or own an existing home, thinking about different types of roofs is an important part of your home’s overall appearance and resistance to the outside elements.
Asphalt shingles come in two basic types: glass fiber (Also known as fiber glass) and organic. Organic shingles have of an organic felt material which is generally paper saturated The paper saturation makes it waterproof. A top coating of adhesive asphalt is then applied and the ceramic granules are then embedded. Organic shingles contain around 40% more asphalt per square (100 sq. ft.) than their glass fiber counterpart which makes them weigh more and gives them excellent durability and blow-off resistance.
Glass fiber shingles have a glass fiber reinforcing mat on shingle. This mat is then coated with asphalt which contains mineral fillers. The glass fiber mat is not waterproof. It's purpose is for reinforcement. The only thing that makes it waterproof is the asphalt. However, the asphalt itself will not stick to the mat. For this reason, "fillers" are used. The fillers in the asphalt cling to the glass fibers in the mat. The asphalt then encapsulates the glass fibers, fills all of the little holes and voids in the mat rendering it waterproof. After this cools a bit, an adhesive asphalt is used to cover the mat and the ceramic granules are then embedded.
The ceraminc granules are used for two reasons. The primary reason is to protect the shingles from the heat and sun. The sun's UV rays are very damaging to asphalt and cause it to deteriorate prematurely. This is one of the same reasons that gravel is used on built-up roofs. The second and more obvious reason for the granules is aesthetics. Asphalt shingles are available in a wide variety of colors to match almost any facade or landscape. We recommend calling us and scheduling an appointment to see your options.
So which type is better? By far, the more popular shingles are the glass fiber ones. This may be attributed to the fact that they are cheaper and easier to manufacturer than organic shingles making them more cost effective to the homeowner, or it may be that they are easier to work with, or they may simply be a personal preference of the roofing contractor.
Meeting and evaluating Potential Roofing Contractors
After compiling a list of possible contractors, take time to evaluate each one carefully. A professional contractor will be happy to provide any information you may require.
A contractor is shopping for good jobs that will make a fair profit and bring future referrals . Many contractors have had experiences with unreasonable or dishonest homeowners. Therefore, they look for warning signs of customer problems during the initial job interview.
Set up an appointment to discuss your needs and their qualifications, and be sure to pay close attention to the attitude of the company representative. Good contractors take pride in their work and will be enthusiastic about the possibility of helping you with your problems.
Experience: The training and experience of a contractor, as well as the age of his or her company, will help you determine their ability to successfully complete your project.
Licensing/Bonding: Some states require special licensing for contractors.
Ask for business license numbers and information on the company which bonds the contractor. Then check with local authorities to see that the company compiles with regulations.
Insurance Coverage: A contractor should carry worker's compensation and general liability insurance. Request the name and address of the insurance carrier, along with a copy of the company's insurance certificate. Beware of low bids which are a result of incomplete insurance coverage and workman's compensation.
Professional References: Your contractor's past can help determine your future.
Company Philosophy: Discuss application techniques and workmanship guarantees.
I recommend using ladder stabilizing devices to help minimize ladder movement. Resting a ladder against a metal gutter is REALLy unstable. It's like stepping on a banana peel so, don't perform this type of work without considering the safety benefits of ladder stabilizing devices.
It's important to note that you'll need to move your extension ladder a lot; approximately your arm's width. In other words, when working from a ladder, do not extend the center of your body's torso past either side rail of ladder and DO NOT OVER REACH.
This requires climbing up, cleaning a section of gutter, climbing down, repositioning ladder, and repeating this process. To minimize repositioning ladder, you might want to use a...
Gutter Scooper: (found at Lowe's or Home Depot) Long perforated plastic gutter scooper, shaped like a spoon, can help gather debris and extend your reach, therefor minimizing ladder repositioning. As a result, you can complete the job done faster.
Gloves, rubber or garden type, can help prevent cutting hands on sharp gutter edges when using the hand scoop method.
Clean all debris from the surface of the roof. This includes debris that has gathered behind HVAC units, pipes and pitch pans, and any other roof penetrations. Debris has a tendency to hold water, and water will expedite roof deterioration, especially if your roof is asphalt based such as a built-up roof or asphalt shingles.
If your roof is starting to collect moss or algae, install some zinc or lead control strips.
Check all flashings and make sure that they are not deteriorated and there are no holes in them.
Dab some roof cement under any loose shingle tabs. One dab on either side should do.
Replace any damaged shingles.
Keep all gutter free of debris. Clean them twice a year. Make sure that the downspouts are draining properly by water testing them.
Trim back any overhanging tree branches. We recommend keeping tree branches from rubbing on the roof.
Check all caulking and sealants. Scrape and remove any caulking that is weather cracked and damaged. Clean the area thoroughly.
Check the mortar on chimneys and parapet walls, both in between the brick and on top. If it’s damaged or deteriorated, have it tuck-pointed. Any mason can perform this work
Keep tree limbs from touching the roof. They can and will damage the shingles, and the leaves will clog your gutters.
Step 2
See if there are black streaks on the roof. Black streaks mean that mold, algae or fungus is growing on the shingles. If not removed, it will eat away the shingles and lead to leaks. The north side of your roof is especially vulnerable.
Step 3
Make sure the attic space is well ventilated to keep moisture down and prevent the growth of moss.
Step 4
Rinse your roof with a garden hose taking care to do so from the top down. Directing water up onto the roof from the ground will result in water getting between the shingles. If a simple hosing down doesn't get the roof clean, try using a long-handled brush to gently scrub the shingles.
Step 5
Check for missing or damaged shingles, especially after windstorms. If they are asphalt shingles, you can do the work to replace them yourself. Otherwise, have a professional replace them as soon as possible before a leak occurs.
Step 6
Keep your gutters clear of debris and remove snow and ice promptly.
Step 7
Check your interior walls, ceilings, exterior vents and chimneys for signs of water leaks. If you find evidence of a leak, figure out where on the roof the leak is originating and fix the problem by replacing the shingle, repairing the flashing or applying a sealant.
Premier Roofing and Construction wishes everyone a happy 4th of July. Enjoy your weekend and remember to be safe.
Here's some weird facts:
Fourth of July Cookouts
More than 1 in 4
The chance that the hot dogs and pork sausages consumed on the Fourth of July originated in Iowa. The Hawkeye State was home to 18.9 million hogs and pigs on March 1, 2010. This represents more than one-fourth of the nation's total. North Carolina (9.1 million) and Minnesota (7.2 million) were the runners-up.
Source: USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service <http://usda.mannlib.cornell.edu/MannUsda/viewDocumentInfo.do?documentID=1086>
6.5 billion pounds
Total production of cattle and calves in Texas in 2008. Chances are good that the beef hot dogs, steaks and burgers on your backyard grill came from the Lone Star State, which accounted for about one-sixth of the nation's total production. And if the beef did not come from Texas, it very well may have come from Nebraska (4.6 billion pounds) or Kansas (3.9 billion pounds).
Source: USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service <http://usda.mannlib.cornell.edu/MannUsda/viewDocumentInfo.do?documentID=1101>
6
Number of states in which the value of broiler chicken production was $1 billion or greater between December 2007 and November 2008. There is a good chance that one of these states -- Georgia, Arkansas, North Carolina, Alabama, Mississippi or Texas -- is the source of your barbecued chicken.
Source: USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service <http://usda.mannlib.cornell.edu/MannUsda/viewDocumentInfo.do?documentID=1130>
The state that led the nation in watermelon production last year (818 million pounds). Other leading producers of this popular fruit included California, Georgia and Texas, each with more than 500 million pounds.
Source: USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service <http://usda.mannlib.cornell.edu/MannUsda/viewDocumentInfo.do?documentID=1183>
76 million
Number of Americans who said they have taken part in a barbecue during the previous year. It's probably safe to assume a lot of these events took place on Independence Day.
Source: Mediamark Research & Intelligence, as cited in the Statistical Abstract of the United States: 2010
<http://www.census.gov/compendia/statab>, Table 1203
Colorado-based insurers will be shelling out roughly $70 million to take care of damage inflicted by storms last week, according to an estimate released Friday by the Rocky Mountain Insurance Information Association (RMIIA).
The vast majority of the damage to cars and homes was concentrated in the northeast metro Denver area, especially in Brighton and Commerce City, though Pueblo saw a large number of insurance claims filed as well, the RMIIA stated in a news release. There have been roughly 13,600 auto and homeowners insurance claims filed because of the high winds and baseball-sized hail produced by the storms, it said.
While not one of the more costly storms in state history, it follows what was the most costly severe weather season on record in 2009, when more than $1.4 billion in insurance claims were filed across the state, the RMIIA report stated.
One storm, a July 20, 2009, hail storm in the Denver metro area, caused $767.7 million in damage, nearly four times as much financial destruction as the tornado that hit Windsor in May 2008.
“This storm is just round one of severe weather season in Colorado, as we enter into what is really considered the peak hail and tornado months of June and July,” said Carole Walker, RMIIA executive director. “It’s much like a tornado siren warning to us to take steps to protect ourselves and our personal property.”
Some insurance companies have set up drive-through claims centers to make it easier for drivers to have their auto claims adjusted on the spot, the RMIIA noted.
Have you been on your roof recently or looked at it from the ground? Does it looked damaged? The best way to examine the condition of your roof is to get on your roof. If you look at it from the ground level and the roof looks like it has waves in it, you could have water damage or a moisture problem. With this much damage the water had to have been there a while. When the damaged, you might have to have the roof removed and a new one put on.
You should do an annual check on your roof so that this problem does not have the chance to show up.
If you buy a home, you will need to have the roof checked before you buy. Just because the roof looks good from the outside, there still might be some damage you do not see. You will need to look on the inside of the attic and ceilings to see if you can find some brown spots or mold. If you do find either of these, you could have some water damage to the roof or a moisture problem in the attic.
If you rent a house, and you notice these signs on the roof, you'll need to let your landlord know. If this is your house, get with your insurance agent to let them know about the problem and ask about help with the costs of fixing the roof. They will tell you the amount you can receive from your policy in regards to the roof repairs or replacement.
When the roof leaks or there is too much moisture in the attic, it could cause your wood rot, which will damage the main structure of the roof or the mold can be unhealthy for the family and the home itself. Mold can get in the wood, some insulation, and in many things you might have stored in your attic. Mold can be dangerous to your health.
Call Premier Roofing and Construction if you have any questions.
1. Contact the Better Business Bureau. While this organization will not provide a list of names for you to call, it can give you an indication of someone's response to complaints so that you get an idea of his or her character and reputation. You must understand though. The BBB doesn't always mean it recommends a good company. The BBB is for profit, so these companies pay the BBB keep in mind.
2. Locate roofer-related organizations. There may be a roofers' group or construction companies that can tell you what to look for in a roofing contractor, and perhaps recommend a few local names.
3. Ask local home building supply stores. Often they keep a list of specialists they recommend to area folks who are looking for consulting or hands-on help with building projects. Occasionally the store might sponsor a workshop or seminar featuring one of these experts. Attending a session may give you a better idea of the roofer's credentials.
4. Browse online websites. Building companies and contractors as well as independent roofers are increasingly advertising their skills on the Web by hosting a websites, creating social media ETC. A company can no longer hide anything. You can even check on Facebook and other social media sites to find info about a company.. Some offer free newsletter sign-ups or updated FAQ's that help to answer visitors' questions. A company that actually cares will write and create content educating you about the things you should do and not do.
5. Ask for referrals. Wherever you get the name of a possible roofer for your project, ask for referral letters from clients or look at their site to see testimonials. A good company will never hide their content or testimonials. You may even want to take a glance at the workmanship ask to see pictures.
Premier Roofing and Construction cares. We would love to provide you a free evaluation.
