Is Your Roof Ready for Spring?

With Spring right around the corner, we look forward to warmer weather, cookouts, and outdoor activities with family and friends.  However, Spring can also bring some harsh weather to our area, such as heavy rain and high winds which can take its toll on an old, worn down  and even new roofs.  Here are some tips to help you determine if your roof is ready for Spring weather:

Curling shingles-  If your shingles are starting to curl or bubble, they are susceptible to breaking off in high winds, leaving your roof vulnerable.

Deteriorating shingles-  If you look in your gutters or at the bottom of your downspouts and notice a lot of shingle granule loss, this means the shingles are nearing the end of their life span.  Granule loss can also be found by just looking at the shingles, such as the picture below.

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

Missing shingles-  Often times, after a heavy storm or windy day, homeowners will find shingles in their yard.  This is a definite sign that the roof is in need of repair or replacement.

If you notice any of these problems with your roof, then it may be time to give us a call or fill out our online request form and we will be glad to come out and help determine your roofing needs and solutions.

 

Energy Efficient Roof Tips

The roof faces direct sunlight every day so it is no surprise that we are looking for more ways to get an energy-efficient roof. First off, some of these tips may require approval from your HOA (Homeowner’s Association) so it is important that at any time before you begin building or replacing your roof that you check with your HOA. There is nothing worse than being told midway or sometimes later through a project that you have to stop or redo the work that you have done. The following are just a few ways that you can make your roof more energy-efficient.

1. Choose a lighter color shingle with reflective properties

WhiteRoof-300x225
This is also referred to as a “cool roof” and in fact, helps cut energy costs. This type of roof is ideal for warmer climates. Learn more about cool roof product ratings to ensure you select the product that best suits your home by clicking here.

2. Select only roofing materials that are rated for Houston

heat damaged shingles
We explained in our last blog that poor attic ventilation can damage your roof, but inappropriate material can also damage the integrity of your roof. Be sure when installing a roof that you verify that it is rated for Houston’s climate. A better price can sometimes mean cheaper material that is not able to handle the Houston heat.

3. Check with your local builder’s association

RoofTec is a greater houston builders association member
Here in Houston, we have access to the Greater Houston Builders Association and their knowledgeable staff and network of both builders and associates. If you are unsure about a contractor, material, or wish to get the latest information on energy efficiency tips, visit the GHBA website here.

Many builders and remodelers around Houston are looking for more ways to be energy efficient, but when it comes to selecting the right contractor for the job look to the GHBA and the BBB for help.

Hot Attic? Attic Ventilation Might Not Be Up To Par

Battling the Houston heat can be a problem, but don’t let the sweltering heat ruin your roof. Improper ventilation in the attic can damage shingles and other roofing materials and severely shorten the lifespan of your roof. When inspecting the ventilation system in your attic here are some important things to look out for…

1. Moisture Or Mold In Attic

attic-mold
Poor ventilation can create a habitat for mold. Not only does this weaken the integrity of your roof, but this can get in the air that you and your family breath.

2. Buckling Or Peeling Shingles

bad_roof
Not only can a poorly ventilated attic cause problems indoors, but an abnormally hot attic can create problems for your roof. If you notice your shingles peeling up or buckling it might be due to poor attic ventilation.

3. Open Exhaust Ducts

triple-play
This is common in the Greater Houston Area and important to correct as soon as it is spotted. Your Houston attic has enough humidity as it is that adding improperly installed bathroom vent ducts dumping in more humid air is a recipe for disaster.

If you spot any of these signs, then call your local roofer to get an estimate on roof ventilation. A cool attic is a key factor in prolonging the life of your roof.

How Often Should You Have A Roof Inspection?

Answer: At least once per year!

Whether you call an experienced professional or you climb on the roof and look at it yourself, it is important that you complete a roof inspection yearly. A thorough inspection will prolong the life of your roof and alert you to any leak or potential leak before it accumulates into a much bigger and more expensive problem.  Here are a few things to look for if you are conducting the roof inspection yourself.

1. Tree Limbs Touching The Roof

tree touching roof
Trim back any tree limbs that have become overgrown and touch the roof. The limbs can quickly scrape away at your shingles or damage tiles.

2. Clean The Gutters

dirty clogged gutters
Remove any debris that has built up in the gutters to allow water to quickly and easily drain from the roof. Sitting water on your roof can create major leaks and damage.

3. Look For Particles of Shingles (granules) in Gutters and Around Perimeter

granule shingle loss
If you find something that looks like this, then chances are it is time to consider a new roof.

4. Lifted or Buckled Shingles

lifted shingles
This could be a sign of poor attic ventilation or maybe due to a bad roof installation, but if you catch it early enough it can be repaired.

These are several important items to look for when inspecting your roof that will help prolong the life of your roof. A helpful reminder is when spring cleaning, clean the house inside and outside and remember your roof.  To have your roof inspected by a professional and reside within the Greater Houston Area, please call us at 281-807-9993 to schedule a free roof inspection.

Guaranteed Pricing and Product Availability

  • is able to guarantee product availability on all roofing related products!
  • warehouses enough product to supply builders upcoming jobs for 60 days without having to depend on any outside suppliers!
  • If at any time an installation is delayed due to product availability , Rooftec will credit the builder $1000.00 per day until the installation has begun
  • Lifetime No Leak Warranties

  • has a 10-year to lifetime, fully transferable “NO LEAK” Warranty available that is separate from the shingle manufacturer’s warranties!
  • A Warranty certificate is provided to each customer
  • Note:  Lifetime Warranty is only available if homeowner agrees to roof their home using Owens Corning Products
  • Free Estimates

  • Do you need a new roof? Call for a free consultation today!!
  • Copper Dormers / Custom Flashings

  • Will last a lifetime!
  • Low maintenance!
  • Will transform colors as it weathers and ages!
  • Standing Seam Metal Roofing

  • Fewer number of seams. Seams are the weakest point in any roof and a potential entrance for moisture!
  • Can be painted any color!
  • Very tough, can withstand all weather!
  • Steel Shingles

  • Will never decompose and can handle all types of weather!
  • Wide variety of styles, patterns and designs!
  • Can last 30-50 years!
  • Low maintenance!
  • In Texas, some insurance companies offer discounts of up to 35% to homeowners with metal roofs!