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Roofing

Causes Of A Dip In A Roof

When you stand at a distance and look at your roof, you want to see level and straight planes. If you have started noticing a dip or a sag on the roof, it’s time to reach a renowned roofer. There are several causes of dips and sags on a roof. Fortunately, most cases can be remedied with a shoestring budget, but others may need substantial repairs.

Homeowners should not overlook dips regardless of their size. If not attended to on time, they can threaten the integrity of their home’s interior. Don’t be tempted to conclude on your own. It’s only a person with vast knowledge in roofing that can determine the precise causes of low spots and sags in a roof.

Here are common causes of a dip or sag in a roof.

Impact Damage

A heavy object, such as a tree branch that falls on the roof, can disintegrate the decking’s underneath the area of impact. If the object is a little bit heavy, the trusses and rafters can be damaged too. Additionally, heavy hails can crack the decking’s and thus deteriorating the roof.

Structural Defects

Structural defects mainly occur due to the builders’ fault. In most cases, the defects are a result of home modifications that incapacitate the supporting components. For example, some homeowners remove part of a rafter to create room for a window or a skylight or the centerboards from trusses to expand the attic’s storage area.

Warped Decking

In some instances, the plywood used for decking can warp on the edges, especially if the roofer didn’t install the supporting clips correctly. Also, inadequate ventilation in the attic can cause warped decking.

Roof Leak

A leaky roof might cause the sheathing to rot and collapse, partially making the area to dip. In most cases, a roof dip due to a leak occurs near the dormer or the chimney. It is easy to identify collapsed sheathings from below. They tend to be dark and discolored and with mold growth.

How to Resolve Sags in A Roof

If you notice a dip in your roof, you should contact a renowned roofing contractor for roof repair. The professional will inspect your roof to determine the exact cause of the dip and advise you on whether the issue can be corrected immediately, or it should be postponed until when you will require to replace the entire roof.

 

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What are the Two Types of Roofs?

The roof is among the first features people see when they visit your house, whether in a residential or commercial structure. For this reason, and for the occupants’ comfort and safety, you need to ensure that your roof is always in perfect condition.

When it comes to roof maintenance, you do not have to worry about anything, especially if you are a Houston, Texas resident. We at Eldridge Roofing & Restoration have more than 25 years of experience serving clients and ensuring that their roofs are in good condition. You can call us today at (281) 999-4663 to get a quote.

Why would you need Roofing Services?

As a homeowner, you are supposed to be vigilant. Do not wait until your roof starts leaking, or you see paddles on your floor.

Some signs that you may need roof repair of replacement include:

  • Too much growth of mold and moss on the roof surface
  • Your roof decking is sagging or staining on its underside
  • Shingles and tiles that are worn out missing, cracked, or curled
  • Loose or no flashing around the vents and chimneys

Too many leaks

There are two types of roofs: Flat and sloping roofs. We shall look at each one individually.

Flat Roofs

This roofing system design was widespread in arid and semi-arid areas where there is no much rain. Flat roofs are ideal in such places because water drainage is of secondary importance. Such areas include the Middle East and Southwest America.

In the 19th century, flat roofs gained popularity in the rest of America and Europe. Roofers used structural steel and concrete as waterproof roofing materials, which contributed to flat roofs’ practicality.

Soon after, these types of roofs became the most common top covers for offices, warehouses, and other commercial buildings. Flat roofs were even used in some residential buildings.

Sloping Roofs

When I talk about sloping roofs, I refer to the other roofing covers that are not flat. The lean-to (shear), with only one slope, is the simplest sloping roof. Gable or pitched roof has two sloping sides that join to form “A”.

Gable roofs have been in use since the construction of ancient Greece temples. Additionally, for thousands of years, it has been used in most domestic buildings in northern Europe and the Americas. A hip or hipped roof is a type of gable roof whose ends are sloped instead of vertical.

Gambrel is another gable roof with two slopes on either side, but the lower slope is steeper than the upper one. Other types of sloping roofs include the dome, the vault, the mansard, among others.

 

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Are black roofs hotter?

From a scientific point of view, light colors reflect heat while black color absorbs heat. So, do black colored roofs make the house hotter? In this article we will look at how a black roof affects the temperatures of your living space. Color and material have a significant impact on the heat of your roof.

Can the roof color contribute to the temperatures in the house?

Light-colored roofs reflect heat while black colored roofs absorb heat and transfer it into your house. Most people prefer dark-colored roofs because they warm the interior of the house. However, several other factors determine the temperatures inside your home. A dark roof won’t heat your house if you live in a frigid area.

Nonetheless, if you live in a warm area, a dark roof could make a considerable difference to things like energy bills. What happens is that the roof will absorb heat and transfer it to your interior, therefore reducing the amount of heating needed in your house. On the contrary, if you live in an extremely hot area, a light-colored roof will keep your home cool.

Here are things you can do to regulate your house temperatures if you have a dark-colored roof.

Proper Insulation

You can insulate your dark-colored asphalt roof to reduce the amount of heated transferred into the living space below. When the interior temperatures rise, the house becomes uncomfortable.

Instead of incurring a high energy bill by turning on your air conditioner to combat the excess heat, install insulation to act as a barrier that prevents hot air from reaching the living space.

Proper Ventilation

Proper ventilation will go a long way to remove hot air from the attic before it reaches your living space. The hot air will be replaced by fresh, cool air. When you have a well-ventilated house, the color of the roof is not a problem. There are several ways to ventilate the attic, and the design of your home determines the method to use.

If a dark-colored roof makes your living space uncomfortable, you can make your house more habitable with proper ventilation and insulation. Before installing a new roof, it is imperative to consult a professional roofing contractor about the best material, color, and design for your home. There are numerous reputable roofing contracts in the US, who have provided high-quality services to thousands of homeowners across the nation.

 

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Is it OK to reroof over old shingles?

When looking to get new shingles for your house, you may be wondering if it’s possible to just reroof over your old shingles. The simple answer is yes but it comes with a couple of caveats.

Homeowners typically decide to just place new shingles over their old ones just so they don’t have to deal with the entire removal process. The removal process for removing old shingles is known for taking a long time and could be costly when getting someone else to do it.

It’s important to note that if you reach a point in the future where you need to completely replace your roof that you’re going to have to pay someone to come out and rip off both sets of shingles. Consider hard if you’re just placing new shingles over your old due to financial reasons.

Placing new shingles over your old ones doesn’t just have financial drawbacks though as your roof will now have to take on double the weight. Having double the weight on your roof can be dangerous in situations where your roof might have tons of snow on top of it, potentially causing your roof to cave in. It’s clear in this scenario that you’ll need to rip out all of your old shingles if you live in an area where it snows.

Finally, you’re going to want to think about if you’re going to sell the house in the future. Potential buyers are going to want an inspection report which will tell them that they have two sets of shingles on the house. Buyers might not want to deal with two sets of shingles on the house as they have to pay more than they were planning if they decide to reroof or it could even cause issues where a buyer has to rip out shingles immediately to plan for winter due to the weight of snow.

 

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How long should a roof last in Texas?

Texas is famous for its hot and sometimes humid climate. As most roofs in the U.S. are made for different weather conditions, Houston roofing has to be designed explicitly for hotter climatic conditions. Before looking at how long a roof should last, you must evaluate the life expectancy of different roofing materials and conditions to consider.

Roofing Materials Expectancy

There is no definite roof life expectancy, and the lifespan of your roof greatly depends on the roofing material you choose. Since every roofing material has its distinct properties, each one has its life expectancy.

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are the most common and widely manufactured roofing materials available in Texas. Made up of cement fibers and organic materials, they are very durable, offering protection from rain, wind, and UV rays. The underside of asphalt shingles is that they last 15-20 years.

Seam Metal Roofs

Seam metal roofs are best known for their well-roundedness and versatility. Similar to asphalt shingles, seam metal roofs are resistant to heavy rain and high winds. Metal roofs are also popular because of their modern look and have a life expectancy of up to 50 years. Its only shortcoming is that it can only be used in low-pitched roofing.

Slate Tile Roofs

Today, the most durable roofing materials in the market are stone tile roofs as they have a lifespan of up to 100 years. Slate tile roofing is suitable for houses that are in the way of heavy rainfall, high winds, and hailstorms. The disadvantage of slate tile roofing is that it is costly and heavy. Additionally, slate tile roofs are hard to find.

Conditions to Consider

Climate

Texas is one of the most southernmost states in the U.S., meaning that it is one of the most humid and warmer states. You should design your house with regard to the precipitations and heat conditions of the Texas climate. Choosing the roofing material that is not suitable for your weather will lead to more issues and reduced lifespan of your roof.

Regular Maintenance

When your roof is exposed to harsh weather conditions such as hailstorms, high winds, heavy rains, and hot summers -this could dramatically reduce the life expectancy of your roof. Performing regular roof maintenance will extend your roof’s life expectancy.

Ventilation

One of the most vital aspects of a house that is located in warmer climates is ventilation. With proper ventilation, you can save money that would otherwise go to roof repairs. Ventilation is an effective way of getting rid of excess heat and moisture accumulated inside your home.

With Texas having a warm and humid climate, having an air conditioning unit will extend your roof’s quality. It’s also essential you choose roofing material designed for warmer climates as they divert penetrative heat.

 

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Is A Leaking Roof an Emergency?

A leaking roof has a detrimental impact on your home. No matter how small it is, a leaking roof is an emergency. If you notice some drops falling from the ceiling, don’t be reluctant to take the necessary precautions. In most instances, the problem can be solved by smaller repairs. However, if a considerable part of your roof is damaged, you may need to replace the entire roof. Here is what you should do in case you have a leaky roof.

Find the Root Cause of The Problem

If you have a leaky roof, start with identifying the source of the leak in your home. You can do this by looking at dripping water falling from the ceiling, puddles on the carpet or floors, moisture on the walls that leads to peeling paint or rustic wall stains. Also, check your ceiling for any signs of mold, water damage, or stains.

Control the Damage

Start with soaking any standing water and place a bucket to collect the dripping water. After soaking water, move valuables that could be damaged by the dripping water to a safer place. To prevent further damage on floors and carpets, put down garbage bags, old clothes, or tarps. If you can reach your roof, use a tarp as a temporary solution to prevent further leaking before you reach out to a professional roofer. If the leak has caused excessive mold growth, consider hiring professional cleanups.

Maintenance

The best way to avoid the massive damage caused by a leaking roof is regularly maintaining your roof. Trim overgrown tree branches around your home. In case of high winds, overgrown branches can come off and cause significant damage to your roof. Additionally, carry out regular maintenance on your chimney to prevent smaller leaks resulting from cracked chimneys.

Besides, clean your gutter to ensure rainwater is flowing smoothly. Always ensure your gutters are free of dirt, clogged leave, and debris. When water overflows in gutters, it pours onto your roof, leading to a leak.

A leaking roof can be a nightmare, but with the right roofing contractor by your side, it doesn’t have to cause you a lot of headaches. If you have a leaky roof, don’t hesitate to reach a professional roofing contractor. Trying to repair the roof by yourself can aggravate the problem and expose you to the risk of injury.

 

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How Long Should a Roof Last in Houston

As a homeowner in Houston, you may be interested in learning more about the lifespan of your roof. In this context, we will delve into five different roof types and how long they last.

The factors that determine the lifespan of your roof include:

  • Environmental conditions- extreme temperatures, strong winds, and falling debris will affect the lifespan of your roof.
  • The contractor’s craftsmanship quality- if the contractor offered poor quality services, the roof’s lifespan will be short.
  • The type of roofing material- the durability varies from one roofing material to another. Some materials may last longer than others.
  • The quality of roofing materials- cheap materials will cost less; however, they will not last long as compared to good quality materials, which are expensive.

Although numerous factors determine your roof’s lifespan, the main factor to consider is the materials used. We will now look into different roof types and how long they can last.

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are durable, affordable, and they have a warranty of up to 25 years. They are made of an asphalt sealant and fiberglass. When the shingles are used for Houston roofing, they will protect the roof structure from wind, snow, UV rays, and rain.

The asphalt shingles roof lasts for at least 15 to 30 years. In regions where there are high temperatures, the shingles will crack, and their lifespan will be affected.

The signs that the asphalt roof needs to be replaced include cracked shingles and mineral granules present in the gutters.

Metal Roofing

A metal roof will last for 40 to 70 years. The manufacturers usually issue a 20-year warranty; nonetheless, such factors depend on the type of metal and the Houston roofing design. If a metal roof is made of metals such as zinc or copper, it can last for more than 10 decades.

Signs that the metal roof may need to be replaced include discoloration, widespread rust, water staining, roof leak damage, and the presence of molds.

Wood Shingles

The wood shingles usually last for three decades; however, such a roof must be maintained regularly. The roof should be cleaned annually. It should also be repainted every five years.

Conclusion

As a homeowner, you should be aware of your roof’s lifespan. The type of roof determines the period when you will carry out roof replacement. We have also listed some of the signs that may indicate certain roof types need to be replaced.

 

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How Long Can Your 30-Year Roof Last?

If you are a homeowner you know that there are a variety of colors, shapes, and styles of roofs to choose from. You may have also noticed packages of shingles boasting the longevity of their products.

As a homeowner, can you really count on your roof to last 30 years? The answer depends on a number of factors. Despite the manufacturer’s claims, most 30-year roofs will last between 17 and 23 years.

Weather as a Factor

The life of your roof depends on the toll the weather will take on it. Hot Texas summers and cold winters can shorten the life of your roof. Sunlight will dry out asphalt shingles and lead to granule loss. If you find granules in your roof’s gutters, it is time for a roof inspection.

Heavy rains, wind storms, and winter ice and snow will also shorten the lifespan of your roof. Hugh winds will loosen and eventually tear the shingles. Hard rain and hail directly damage the shingles. Even if your roof undergoes regular maintenance, one bad storm can lead to leaks and other problems.

Roof Components

The life of your roof depends on more than just the shingles. Every roof requires metal components like roofing nails and flashing. Rusted or corroded metal components can cause the shingles to loosen.

Signs That You Need a New Roof

Regular roof inspections can alert you to issues long before water stains appear on the ceiling inside your home. Even if you are on the ground staring up at the roof you can spot potential trouble spots.

Shingles that are curled or buckled at the edges mean it is time to call in a professional. As mentioned before, weather damage can lead to granule loss. You can see granule loss in the form of discoloration.

Other Roofing Types

Unlike asphalt shingles, metal roofs can last between 40 and 70 years. With regular maintenance wood shingle roofs can last up to 30 years. Clay tile roofs can last between 50 and 100 years.

 

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Why Invest in an Asphalt Shingle Roof?

As a certified GAF Master Elite™ Roofing Company, Eldridge Roofing and Restoration specialize in high-quality asphalt shingle roofing systems. With all the different materials to choose from on the market, why should you choose our GAF shingles for your home? Read on as we explain the features that make our products a cut above the rest:

Low Maintenance

Most roofing materials require constant maintenance to maintain their appearance and performance. Asphalt shingles, however, need very little maintenance and can be easily repaired or replaced if damaged. This allows you to enjoy all the wonderful benefits of a quality roof without the hassle of regular upkeep.

High Aesthetic Value

Our asphalt shingles come in a variety of colors and styles to complement your home’s design. If you’re looking to boost your home’s curb appeal, our Lifetime Designer Shingles offer unmatched beauty. They mimic the look of natural wood shakes and slate to give your Roofing system wonderful depth and texture at a fraction of the cost.

Lightweight

Unlike other roofing materials, asphalt shingles are relatively light, which means they won’t place excessive stress on your home’s infrastructure. Additionally, their size and flexibility make them easy to install on roofs of almost any size and shape.

Affordable

Asphalt shingles are one of the most affordable roofing materials available, giving you a great return on your investment. With our GAF Timberline® Lifetime Architectural Roofing shingles, you can enjoy superior protection and beauty for your home at a lower cost.

Eldridge Roofing and Restoration can install a high-quality asphalt shingle roof for your home. We serve Houston, Conroe, and Katy, TX. Learn more about asphalt shingle roofs or our other roofing materials by calling us today at (281) 816-6006. You can also get a free quote!

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Roofing

Signs You Need a New Roof

Need a new roof?

Your home’s roof can suffer extensive wear and tear from being exposed to years of sun, rain, wind and other harsh weather conditions. However, it can be difficult for a homeowner to judge when a roof is at the end of its useful life, or whether roof repairs from a qualified roofer like Eldridge Roofing & Restoration, Inc. can extend its life a few more years.

Repair or Replace?

When we conduct a roof inspection, we use a comprehensive checklist of items to assess its condition. The following issues can indicate the need for replacement.

• Worn, cracked, curled or missing shingles or tiles
• Numerous leaks
• Streaks or stains along the home’s exterior walls
• Excessive mold or moss growth on the roof surface
• Loose or missing flashing around vents and chimneys
• Sagging or staining on underside of roof decking

Many people don’t realize they have roofing problems until their ceiling leaks or puddles appear on the floor. Only then will they call a roofing contractor – but it may already be too late. Don’t make an important judgment about the condition of your home’s roof without first consulting with the professional roofers at Eldridge Roofing & Restoration, Inc. Experts agree that you should have your roof inspected by a qualified roofing contractor at least every three to five years.

Find Out If You Need a New Roof

Eldridge Roofing & Restoration, Inc. can conduct a thorough inspection and assessment of your roof and provide a detailed report on its condition. We’ll then work with you to decide if a replacement is necessary, or if we can make repairs to extend the life of your roof. Contact Eldridge Roofing & Restoration, Inc. to schedule a professional inspection of your home’s roof.

Trust Professional Roofing Contractors

Make sure your home’s roof is ready to protect you from the elements. Contact Eldridge Roofing & Restoration, Inc. for a free estimate today by calling (281) 999-4663 or completing our online quote request form.