grey metal shake roof

Metal Shake Roofing Overview

Posted on by Don Carlo

Introducing you to Metal Shake Roofs and Why San Diego Homeowners need them

As a San Diego homeowner, you have a long list of options when you want to replace your current roof. Before choosing from one of the options available to you, consider several things, especially how the roof fits your personality and style.

You’ll need to pay attention to the fixture, panel, and color of the roofing material before choosing. You also need to look at things like lifespan, sustainability, cost, durability, and installation procedure.

It is also important to note that different roofing materials have their differences in customization, just as some are more expensive than others to customize.

If you seek a roof replacement that’s sustainable, durable, and long-lasting, a metal shake roof is a great option.

A metal shake roof has a similar appearance and feel to cedar shake roofing. Cedar shake has been loved for its attractiveness and is rustic, warm, and beautiful. We loved and used cedar shake roofs for decades in San Diego, but because of their short lifespan and need for frequent maintenance, we had to move on from them.

Now we have a metal shake roof that is as attractive as cedar but strong, long-lasting, and not as prone to weather damage. Metal shake roofs are made with several alloys and metals that come in several designs and colors.

Advantages of choosing a Metal Shake Roof

Due to its long list of benefits, metal shake roofing has continued to become a favorite of many San Diego homeowners in recent times. The unique appearance of metal shake roofs compared to other metal panels is one reason many people like them. Some other benefits of metal shake roofs include:

1. The ability to withstand harsh weather 

Metal shake roofs can handle and survive the toughest weather conditions, such as wind, ice, rain, snow, and ultraviolet rays. You can expect this roof to withstand severe rains, heavy winds, serious snow, wildfires, lightning, and even earthquakes.

Metal shake roofing comes with a Class 4 rating against the impact of hail. With all these, you can tell that it is perfect for homes in areas with severe weather conditions, as its integrity will keep it standing.

2. Long lifespan

As a homeowner, it is in your best interest to choose a long-lasting roofing material for your home. Metal shake roofing has one of the longest lifespans in the market, making it a great option. With the right maintenance, it can last a literal lifetime.

While asphalt shingles have an average lifespan of 15 to 20 years, metal shake roofing lasts for 50 years and above, with minimal maintenance requirements.

3. Recyclable 

With a focus on more environmentally-friendly roofing options, metal shake roofing meets the mark because of an impressive carbon footprint. Metal shake roofing is sustainable and comprises materials that are 100% recyclable.

After your metal shake roof lasts a lifetime, you’ll also be able to recycle the material while replacing the roof. Also, because many metal roofing materials were made from already recycled material, the process beginning at manufacturing and ending at installation won’t negatively impact the environment.

4. Ease of installation

Due to their lightweight nature, metal shake roofs are easy to install, which saves you installation costs and ensures a quick installation process.

Also, you can install your metal shake roofing all year round- even in winter, that’s considered the wrong time for roof installation. You can change your roof in winter because metal shake roofing is available for a smooth winter installation, unlike other roofing materials that need certain temperature levels for a safe and successful installation process.

5. Energy efficient  

Your choice of a roof can either improve or reduce your energy efficiency, which can affect a lot of things, including how much energy bills you pay. Metal shake roofing keeps unwanted heat and cold out of your home because it seals your home tightly.

In winter, the metal shake roof will help retain heat, just as it will expel the heat in the summer. Once it can naturally improve the cooling and heating of your home, you will see your utility costs reduce.

6. Beautiful aesthetics

Cedar was always a popular choice for a long time because of its beauty. The only downside was its inability to last long, as well as high maintenance costs. Metal shake roofing replicates the beauty of cedar roofing but does even more. You can choose to customize your metal shake roofing’s color and finish. You have a long list of options before you to define and determine what aesthetics you want your metal shake roof to have.

7. Customizable and flexible

One more reason to love metal shake roofing is that it can be customized thanks to its flexibility. You can also add roofing accessories without any issues. For instance, if you live in an area where there’s a lot of snow, you can comfortably install snow guards that’ll help send the snow off your roof to avoid moisture damage. Metal shake roofing can also handle daylight and skylight installations, and a list of others.

A Metal Shake Roofing is a great choice

If you want to enjoy the classic beauty of cedar and the durability and lifespan of metal, then metal shake roofing is your best option. It delivers a unique and beautiful aesthetics that lasts a lifetime and a material that has little or no maintenance with a lifetime of usage.

You can rely on metal shake roofing to shield your home from terrible weather elements because the roof integrity speaks louder than other options you might find.

To further explore the benefits and installation options that come with metal shake roofing, contact a professional San Diego roofing contractor to guide you towards deciding on the best metal shake roofing for your home.

Posted in Metal Roofing, Roofing Materials
black metal shingle roof

Metal Roofs & Leaks

Posted on by Don Carlo with Leave a comment

How to Locate a Leak in a Metal Roof

Metal roofs are the favorites of many people, especially because they are aesthetically appealing, durable, and long-lasting. When you look at homes across San Diego, you will find many metal roofs gracing the buildings.

Metal roofs have a lifespan of up to 50 years, but in the course of these years, a time would come when you could need to make a few repairs. For instance, when there is a leak in your metal roof, it could pose a challenge to identify and fix. Metal roofs pose more challenges than the cedar shingle roof or the normal asphalt.

Let’s look into what can cause a leak in your metal roof and how to identify points where your roof is leaking or damaged.

Poor Installation

Many faults and issues that you face with your metal roofs are caused by poor installation. Because metal roofs are quite modern, some roofers who aren’t well skilled in handling them might commit installation errors.

The most problematic installation issue happens when a roofer doesn’t install seams properly. In such a case, the seams will lift and water will pass through and leak under the roof.

When this happens, the first place to study is the actual roofing panel, that is, the body of the roof.

You can find such leaks by carrying out a visual inspection of all aspects of the roof. Look for things that might be missing, loose, or too tight.

Rust

Your metal roof can rust over time, but rust doesn’t always equate to a leak. However, rust is a sign that your roof is getting weak. It breaks down the protective coating on your roof, and if left unchecked, smaller openings might develop and eventually cause leakages.

Hence, it is important to speak to an installer once you notice rust so that an inhibitor will be applied. They will also look for other issues that might need attention.

Holes/Dents 

There are several causes of holes or dents in a metal roof. They include someone walking on the roof or debris falling on it and causing damage to it.

Once you notice a dent on your roof, fix it immediately because it could cause water to pool on your roof. Any accompanying cracks from the dent can also lead to rust, and the development of a hole can cause more serious problems.

Fasteners

Fasteners are used to attach metal roof panels. They connect directly to the purlin, which offers strength, stability, and support to the framing.

Fasteners become covered when the panels get seamed and crimped together. However, as time goes on, fasters that have rubber washers could get worn out and cause gaps or holes between the metal and washer, which is a recipe for leaks.

Roof Penetrations

An interruption anywhere on the roof is described as a roof penetration. Roof penetrations include points like vents, skylights, chimneys, and vent pipes. It is important to inspect these penetrations frequently for signs of issues.

Termination Details

The point where your roof stops are called a termination detail. Such points include counter flashing along the house walls, gable trims, or the ridge cap.

It is important to ensure that there are no missing pieces, just as you should ensure that water isn’t getting under the caps.

Posted in DIY Roofing, Metal Roofing
private roofer fixing tiles on roof

Roof Safety Measurements For Homeowners

Posted on by Don Carlo

Basic rooms of Roof Safety for Homeowners

You might have been tempted at one time or the other to try handling your roof maintenance and repairs by yourself because it seems like something you can easily fix. While a DIY for your roof isn’t impossible, it isn’t always the best option because of concerns like safety and expertise. It might look easy when you observe with the eyes, but it doesn’t mean that the activity is without risks.

Although it is important to always engage the services of roofing experts for all your roof matters, if you choose to go the way of DIY, either for inspection or repairs, you’ll need to use the right equipment for your safety, as well as a smooth work process.

1. Crowbar

Your roof repair or maintenance might begin with nail or shingle removals, and you need to know how to get it done. Without the right tool, removing them from your roof will be both difficult and dangerous.

If you use the wrong tool, you’ll have to exert more force than usual, which could lead to a fall, accidents, or a dangerous situation.

Even professional roofers always go about with crowbars to make the process easier for them. You should definitely do the same, especially because you might need to remove stubborn shingles or a rusted nail. Crowbars make the work easier.

2. Flat-Head Shovel

Apart from a crowbar or utility bar, a flat-head shovel is also very instrumental in removing shingles from your roof. So, if there are old shingles you want to remove and replace, you’ll need to own a flat-head shovel and use it.

3. Fall Protection equipment

Just as you could topple over by trying to take out shingles and nails without the right equipment, climbing on your roof for whatever reason could result in a fall. You could get a minor or even a serious injury from such a fall, so safety is key.

So, one of the first kits to get before starting your DIY roofing activities is a fall protection kit. This kit should contain a safety harness, roof anchor, shock-absorbing lanyard, and a rope lifeline.

While this kit can go a long way to protect you from the incidence of a fall, the process can also be tricky if you have a steep roof. In this case, it is always best to leave the job to an expert who has more experience handling such roofs.

4. Toe Boards

There is no such thing as too much protection when you’re handling roof maintenance by yourself because the danger from a fall is better imagined than experienced.

Toe boards are important when you’re climbing on your roof because they help to make your footing firmer and more comfortable. Toe boards have roof jacks that can be attached under your shingles, making it possible for you to move fluidly throughout the roof without slipping, falling, or getting wounded.

5. Ladder or scaffold 

You need to get on the roof before you get any work done, so you must have equipment that takes you up there safely. A ladder, scaffold, or even a shingle lift are safe enough to help you climb up your roof and climb back down when you’re done.

Professional roofers always go about with any of these tools, so ensure that you also have one of them. Make sure they are in top condition to avoid accidents or a fall while using them.

6. Roofing Nails

You can’t use just any nail when working on a roof repair. You’ll need to use specific nails that fit what you’re doing. Purchase the right roofing nails you need for your DIY project because using the wrong nail to hold your shingles and roofing system in place would be counter-productive.

First, the nail won’t hold the roof in place, thereby creating the need for repairs again in no time. Also, trying to force the wrong nails into position can cause accidents.

The best nails to purchase for your DIY roof maintenance or installation are the 1.25-inch coil nails. They are strong and sturdy and can be used for several roofing purposes.

After getting the nails, also ensure that you secure them right. This entails ensuring that they pierce through your roof deck completely so that they hold better and don’t remove at the slightest issue or wind.

7. Hammer 

You’ll be needing a hammer or roofing nailer to get the nails into position or replace a few shingles. You’ll need the hammer to replace the shingles after removing the old and worn-out ones.

But when dealing with an entire roof replacement, you’ll need a roofing nailer for the new attachment as it delivers greater efficiency for such a wide-range job.

Engage the services of a roofing expert for your repairs

While these tips will be helpful for your DIY roof repairs or maintenance, it still won’t be easy to carry out the process, especially if you don’t have any experience in such matters.

If you don’t have the necessary experience or you’re not sure you can do a great job on your roof, reach out to a roofing expert to handle the process for you.

A roofer has all the experiences you might lack, and also has the right tools for every process. So, you don’t have to rent or buy these pieces of equipment. Allow a professional roofer to handle the process safely and efficiently.

Posted in DIY Roofing, Roof Maintenance
roofer nailing on roof flashing on single roof

Preventitive Roof Maintenance

Posted on by Don Carlo

A Guide to Preventive Roofing Maintenance

As they say, prevention is better than cure. The saying remains true even when it comes to your home and roofing. It is always better to prevent a problem from occurring than to solve it after it occurs.

Your home is a major investment so you need to ensure that it is safe and free from damage. You might need to engage the services of specialists to handle your maintenance, upgrades, and renovations.

The first thing to bear in mind is that a comfortable and safe home begins with the designing, fitting, and installation of the roof. If the best quality materials are not used, the entire process would be frustrating. For instance, you need to use high-quality roofing products and shingles that have warranties, coupled with expert roof installation to avoid problems like water damage, molding, leaking, and the escape of hot or cold air.

Here’s a guide to bear in mind:

Protect Your Roof, Protect your home

Your roof should support your home for several years, which is why you need expert roofers to install, inspect, and repair your roof in the first instance.

When we inspect your roof, we will let you know your options for a roof upgrade. If we notice any problems with your roof, we will let you know what it takes to correct the problem.

Advantages of Roofing Maintenance

When you inspect and maintain your roof yearly, you will extend the lifespan of your roof. You will also ensure that you don’t need to re-roof in the near future. When you upgrade your roofing system with new products and technology, you are also increasing the value of your property.

Preventive Roofing Maintenance Services

Adding Insulation

When the attic insulation is inefficient, several problems can arise, including the build-up of ice in the eaves in freezing weather. We can improve the insulation in your home as well as your heating and cooling efficiency and cost.

Repairing Shingles

Broken shingles, curling shingles, and deteriorating flashings are some problems that might be difficult to identify but are necessary to notice. We know how to identify them, fix, or replace them as the case may be.

Roofing Support in winter

The wind and ice winter brings can cause some damage, so roof inspection before and after winter is important. You also need to study concerns connected to ice damming. We can help you carry out these inspections in winter, and we are a phone call away.

Best Quality Roofing Products for protection

Here are some of the best quality roofing products you need to protect your roof.

Shingles

From Oakridge lines to TruDefinition by Owen Corning, we appreciate shingles that are beautiful, durable, and reliable. These shingles can guarantee the protection of your home, and they have a limited lifetime warranty.

Underlayment

Underlayment serves as an additional defense layer for your roof when the elements and weather take a toll on it.

We used Owen Corning’s Rhino and Deck Defense synthetic underlayment because it is resistant to wear and tear, wrinkle-free, and durable. Workers and homeowners can also walk on it safely.

Ventilation

If you need to improve ventilation, we have several products and services to help you. We work with products from duraflo that are uniquely created to meet all your ventilation needs.

Posted in Roof Maintenance