Archive for January, 2012
Spray Foam Roofing Benefits For Commercial Roofs
Most commercial buildings pose unique challenges to the maintenance of its roof. With very little slope and often plagued by large structures, commercial roofs must be innovative with their choice of roof materials.
In the past, many roof systems used tar and rubber coatings to keep out moisture and protect the integrity of the roof. As technology changes, so does the materials and procedures available for roof repair and maintenance.
Spray Foam Systems
A new trend in commercial roofing is using a spray foam coating. Similar to the product used to dispense attic insulation, a spray foam roof uses a lightweight product that spreads easily and dries hard. Not only can a commercial roofer cover large areas in half the time, the spray foam material is a far superior product to concrete or rubber roof materials.
A roof covered in spray foam is highly water resistant and holds a great insulation value. This roof material is self-flashing, which reduces the chances of water leakage, and is more durable than traditional commercial roof materials. The polyurethane foam contains an SPF factor that increases is durability makes it more resistant to the sun’s UV rays.
Further, spray foam roofing is an Energy Star rated product, meaning it adheres to the environmental standards set forth by the government as reducing the dependence on traditional energy. A properly installed spray foal roof can lower the temperature of a roof by up to 100 degrees F through its high reflectivity coating, making it a green roof product of its own kind.
14th Century Church Gets Grant for Roof Repairs
Awarded 20,000 GBP (approximately $30,000 USD) The Church of Saint Peter in Walpole, Norfolk, also known as Queen of the Marshland, has received royal support for roof repairs to the chancel. Prince Charles regularly visits the church and contributes to its repair, continuing the royal tradition of personal support for the church.
The chancel, the space around the altar of the church for the clergy to officiate, has a very high, large roof. Due to the size of the project, it will be an expensive process when hiring a roofing contractor to do the job.
Church Destroyed in a Flood
St. Peters tower was built in 1300, in the 1330’s a flood destroyed the church, all but its tower. Before it could be rebuilt, the Black Death took away half of the local population. In the early 15th century the church was rebuilt on a grand scale.
The chief executive of the National Churches Trust, Claire Walker said “I am delighted the trust has been able to support these vital repairs to one of England’s most important parish churches.”
The total cost of the chancel roof is expected to be GBP 200,000. English Heritage will be giving a grant for half of the project and the rest will be raised by additional grants and donations.
Asphalt Shingles vs. Architectural Shingles
Both types, asphalt and architectural shingles are suitable for roofing a properly constructed pitched roof without any further reinforcement. The shingles come in two, three or four tab cutouts in 3 foot strips. Three-tab is the most common for asphalt shingles. The tab cutouts are to mimic the shapes of slate tile or wood shakes. Both types of shingles come in a wide range of colors to match your siding and trim. You can also get specially treated shingles if you live in a damp climate to prevent algae and molds.
Asphalt three-tab roof shingles have layers of asphalt, a base sheeting of fiberglass or felt and covered by mineral granules. In the United States, the three-tab shingle has been the most popular roofing material. They are lightweight, reasonably priced and can last anywhere from 8 to 30 years. The three-tab shingle is relatively easy to install or repair. High quality asphalt shingles can be fairly maintenance free and offer fire and wind resistance.
Architectural Shingles
Architectural shingles or multi thickness asphalt shingles are other terms for laminated asphalt shingles. These shingles have the same material as the tree tab roof shingle but instead of a single shingle layer, two layers are bonded together to create a 3 dimensional appearance. Laminated shingles have wide randomly sized notches to look more like the inconsistencies of a cedar or shake roof.
Laminated shingles are heavier than standard asphalt shingles which gives them improved durability and wind resistance. Although they generally cost more, laminated shingles offer longer 30 to 50 year warranties.
Talking to a roofing professional can help you determine what are the best roofing materials for your home and climate.
Town Attempts To Save Hockey Arena With New Roof
A Minnesota town may lose its 40 year old ice rink if locals can’t raise enough money to buy a new roof. After several motions to rebuild the aging hockey rink, Minneapolis city officials are planning to close down the activities center for good.
Locals Unite
The old ice rink in West St. Paul, Minnesota has needed a new roof for years, but with a price tag of over $350,000 the city is not willing to save the historic arena. Home to several local hockey clubs and winter activities clubs, news of the arena’s closing has sparked the interest of several local groups.
Parents of the local high school’s hockey booster club have come together to develop a plan to save the building. Forming a group called Friends of the West St. Paul Arena, they plan to raise funds to replace the old roof but sponsoring charitable gambling and fundraising events over the next several months. Locals from all walks of life are hoping the group can save the arena and protect the future of nearly 400 youths who use the building each week.
Cleveland State University Swap Gulls for Solar Panels
Officials for the Ohio Cleveland State University are hoping removing the gravel ballast and putting 2,470 solar panels on the roof will deter the gulls from nesting on the Wolstein Center roof. Thousands of gulls have been nesting in the pea gravel on the roof since the building opened in 1991. It is estimated up to 700 eggs are laid up there each spring.
Dovetail Solar and Wind will pay for the $600,000 in roof restoration and cover approximately 70% of the roof with solar panels. The gravel will be removed and replaced with a smooth white roof.
Saving $10,000 in Energy Costs per Year
The solar panels will be flush to most of the roof and will provide enough electricity to power about 61 homes. Cleveland State University will purchase power from Dovetail and the university is expected to save around $10,000 a year in electricity costs.
Partnering with OneEnergy Renewables, Dovetail plans to use tax credits and initiatives to pay for the new roof and solar project. Dovetail will also be giving an internship in its Northeast Ohio office and giving away two $1,000 scholarships in renewable energy.
Safe Practices For Roofers
Roof repair is not an easy task. In fact, the roofing industry faces many challenges that others do not. Roofers have a tough job, one that often comes with many dangers and risks. In addition to state and federal safety laws that regulate industry compliance, many roof contractors are now improving the way they do business to boost their workplace safety.
Staying Safe On The Job
One of the most important things a roofer can do is train their staff. Having inexperienced or unlicensed employees can leave the company open to unnecessary safety hazards and even lawsuits.
While commercial roofers have mandatory training requirements for employees, many residential roofing companies do not. It is advised that all roofers participate in and complete a minimum of 10 hours in an OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) certified training. Further, lead contractors or on-site supervisors should carry at least a 30 hour OSHA safety certificate when monitoring the work of others.
Innovations in industry equipment have also developed new tools for roofers looking for safety equipment. Most roof contractors use roof jacks and toe boards when working on steep or variable sloped roofs. However, personal fall arrest systems have become recommended by OSHA and are being used more than in years past. Laddervators have also become a more popular method for hoisting roof materials rather than requiring a person to move up and down along the roof carrying heavy materials.
Alabama Renovates Roofing Building Codes
On Tuesday the Baldwin County Commission approved upgraded building codes as a result of the catastrophic damage left by Hurricane Katrina. The new codes will improve roofing systems in residential structures and reduce insurance costs for homeowners.
The new code will require special nails; roofing staples will no longer be to code. Asphalt shingle roofs will require an underlayment of a synthetic, tear resistant polypropylene, polyester or fiberglass fabric certified by an approved testing agency.
Adding an Additional $50 To Building Permits
The new permit fees will be increased by approximately $50 to help pay for inspections. County building inspector Mike Howell said “When roofing goes, that’s where the damage is — from water. The new code will not add much at the time of construction, but retro-construction will be 10 times more expensive.”
County Mayors and Baldwin County Homebuilders Association have endorsed the new code. The purpose of the new codes for upgraded roofs is for added safety and to protect the homeowner.
Roofing Product Considerations
When choosing a roofing material, an important consideration is how much maintenance will the roofing material need. While some are nearly maintenance free, others require more effort into keeping your home attractive and dry. Roofing products are also greatly affected by the climate you live in. The lifetime of the roofing products also vary with the materials used.
Tile, metal, clay or concrete roofs generally do not need much maintenance. Clay, concrete and slate are the most durable roofing products. They are heavy and resist being blown off in high winds and usually carry a lifetime warranty. Metal roofs, although lightweight are extremely durable, a 50 year warranty is common.
Asphalt Shingles Most Common Roofing Material
The usual damage to roofing products is torn or cracked shingles, loose or missing asphalt shingles, wooden shakes and shingles. These products can be purchased in small amounts and individually replaced as needed on your roof. Wood shakes are available in different grades varying their durability. High quality shakes usually carry 50 year warranties. Asphalt shingles also vary widely in quality, they should last at least 20 years, while the thicker architectural shingles are warrantied up to 50 years.
Roll roofing has the shortest warranty, usually between 6 and 12 years. Small holes or blisters can occur in roll roofing, in most cases easily repaired by roofing cement and patches.
Talking to your roofing contractor will give you practical ideas and recommendations for the type of home you have and the climate you live in.
Roofer Steps Out To Improve The Industry
While homeowners are busy choosing from endless listings of roof contractors in their area, one roofing company is hoping to change the way “they” do business. Patrick Roofing in West Melbourne, Florida recently received an award for setting an example in the industry.
Awards For Excellence
The Select Shingle Master Tenured Member Status was recently awarded to Patrick Roofing for their efforts in improving industry standards. As one of many local roofers, Patrick Roofing has been one of 139 companies participating one of the nation’s top credentialing program for the last 10 years.
What makes this credentialing program so special is its focus on training roofers to create the highest standards of quality and knowledge in the industry. Known for its high-level training and skill building tolls, the program offers contractors a chance to learn new and improved skills for roof repair and materials. In order to obtain the level held by Patrick Roofing, the company must meet strict requirements, uphold a stellar reputation in their community and carry up to date liability insurance.
Asphalt Roll Roofing
Asphalt roll roofing is one of the most inexpensive roofing materials available. It is used for low pitched roofs and is a common choice for porch, shed and garage roofs. Roll roofing is also a good choice if you need to protect a roof from the elements but you plan on installing a different roofing material later.
Roll roofing is quick and easy to install. Basically a roofer rolls the product onto your roof, then nails and seals the edges and overlaps with roofing cement. Your roof decking must be completely free of debris before installing the roll roofing. You should also install it during the warmer months, cold weather can cause the material to be brittle and crack.
Continuous Strip Of Asphalt Material
Rolls are typically 3 feet wide and 36 feet long. Asphalt roll roofing is like a continuous strip of tab-less asphalt shingles. Roll roofing is installed in overlapping layers similar to regular asphalt shingles. A wider overlap provides a double coverage effect.
Depending on the type you buy, asphalt roll roofing can be entirely covered in asphalt granules or only half the surface will be covered in granules. Depending if you are using single (the most common) or double coverage, the uncoated edge can be a few inches wide to half of the sheet. The uncoated section is covered in roofing cement for an improved seal.
Asphalt roll roofing does not last as long as asphalt shingles, however if installed correctly it can be more water tight. Since fewer nails are used in installation, the material is more likely to get wind up underneath and tear or blow off the roll roofing.
