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Do You Have Water Ponding On Your Roof? Not Good!

22 Feb
So when we say “ponding water,” what does that mean? Ponding water is water that remains on a roof 48 hours or more.  Here in South Florida we can get some very heavy rains.  If your roof is holding water after a rain, there’s nothing but trouble that can ensue.

If you have a home or business with a flat roof, there is more of a likelihood of ponding water. Most flat roofs require some sort of pitch or slope to avoid it. But unfortunately, ponding water occurs on most flat roofs. Ponding water can seriously increase the load on a roof assembly. As water accumulates, deck deflections (sags) can increase, resulting in more ponding water which could compromise the structural integrity of the deck.

Ponded water creates hydrostatic pressure that forces water into even the tiniest pinhole imperfections. This is why most roof warranties are voided in areas that pond water for more than 48 hours. Additionally, ponding areas rot roofing membranes, attract dirt/mud and algae, and quickly destroy any reflectivity of reflective coatings.

By far the biggest risk associated with ponding water is weight and the potential for damage to the roof deck or collapse of the decking system.

Ponding water weighs approximately 5 lbs. per inch, per each square foot of roof surface. A ponded area 20′x20′ at 1″ deep would equal 400 total square feet at 5 lbs per foot or a roof live weight of 2,000 pounds! 

That can be an additional ONE TON of live roof load of stress on your building’s roof!

If water stays on your roof, several health issues can arise. Warming water facilitates the growth of algae, and mixed with pigeon feces can create harmful fungal material that could affect the air quality in your building.

Have your roof inspected frequently, especially after a good rain to avoid future problems.  Contact Colonial Roofing to set up a roof inspection or to find out more information about ponding water on your roof.
 
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Posted in Roof Problems

 

Metal Roofing Revisited: Not the Same TIN Your Grandparents’ Shed was Sporting

16 Feb
Have you considered the pros to metal roofing?  This type of roofing isn’t the “old tin” you may be picturing.  This is one of the best roofing choices on the market.  Residential metal roofing can help cut costs on energy bills and homeowners’ insurance premiums.
The latest in roofing materials and techniques isn’t available only to business. Residential metal roofing is growing in popularity – and for good reason. In fact, demand is growing for a whole battery of reasons. If you’re curious about residential metal roofing, Colonial Roofing offers seven reasons to give it serious consideration:
1.) It’s lightweight: A major cause of damage to traditional asphalt roofing is excessive weight. This commonly happens when a roof has been patched or repaired by placing a new sheet of shingles directly over an old one. Excessive weigh causes the roof to sag and once it sags, there’s no other option than full roofing replacement.
2.) It’s durable and low maintenance: Residential metal roofing requires very little maintenance and can last up to twice the lifespan of an average asphalt shingle roof. Though the initial cost is higher, residential metal roofing carries warranties of 25 to 50 years and some metal roofing can actually last 50 to 100 years depending on the type. By comparison, asphalt shingles last an average of 10 years.
3.) It’s flexible design-wise: Steel or metal roofing products have lots of design flexibility. Various products can be installed over open framing or on a solid substrate with large sprung curves or rolled bull-nose shapes. And metal roofing is available in a variety of colors and coatings. Do keep in mind that installation is more involved and precise with metal roofing than is required with traditional asphalt roofing.
4.) It stands up to harsh weather: Residential metal roofing is hail resistant and wind resistant. In fact, studies show metal roofs hold up against hurricanes far better than shingle roofs. And coatings can be tailored to specific environments.
5.) It’s fire and spark resistant: And many homeowners’ insurance companies recognize this. Metal roofing often means a reduction in your insurance premiums.
6.) It’s energy-efficient: Residential metal roofing coatings with high reflectivity or “cool roof” pigments can help lower your air conditioning costs by as much as 20 to 30 percent.
7.) It’s recyclable: If caring for the environment is important to you, you’ll be happy to know that metal roofing is readily recyclable. Many aluminum and copper roofing products are available with upwards of 95% recycled content. And metal roofing materials can be ordered already cut to size, which means less construction waste.
If you have any concerns or questions, contact Colonial Roofing today.
www.colonialroofing.com
 
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Posted in Roofing Materials, Tile and Metal Roofing

 

Is Roofing Repair or Replacement on Your ‘To Do’ List this Year?

15 Feb
Is Roofing Repair or Replacement on Your ‘To Do’ List this Year?
Do you think you need roofing repair or roofing replacement? We here at Colonial Roofing would like to share some telltale signs to look for. There are a myriad of factors that can cause damage that result in the need for roofing repair or even roofing replacement.
Here are some telltale signs of a damaged roof:
1.) Loose or missing shingles: Wind, rain, intense summer heat and pure age can weaken shingles and cause them to separate from your roof. Missing shingles and shingles that are blistered, cracked or curled make your roof more susceptible to damage from inclement weather.
2.) Loose or Exposed Nails: They’re small, but critically important. A loose or missing nail means an open hole in your roof. Exposed nails allow water to flow beneath the nail head. All of this means potential water damage to your roof and potentially your interior walls.
3.) Interior water damage: Leaks from the ceiling when it rains, water stains on your ceiling or walls and sagging ceilings all are signs of either insufficient ventilation or roof damage.
4.) Sagging roof: A dip in the roof structure either on the slope, the ridges or between the rafters in your attic mean your roof is under strain from excessive weight. This weight can be caused by multiple layers of shingles (a sign of past repairs) or from persistent moisture. Sagging means you will need roofing replacement.
5.) Overflowing Gutters: South Florida’s rainy seasons dump a lot of water onto rooftops and into gutters and rain drains. If yours are filled with leaves and debris, then water can’t drain and instead will accumulate in puddles. The resulting weight can cause gutters and drains to pull away from your structure, making way for all sorts of water damage.
6.) Changes in Your Heating or Cooling Bills: One way to spot potential roof damage doesn’t even require you to look up. Instead, look at the total of your most recent heating or cooling bills. A rise could be a clue that a leak in your roof is allowing cold air into our home, causing your heating bills to rise; or allowing cool air to escape, jacking up your cooling costs.
If you believe you may need roofing repair or roofing replacement, Colonial Roofing strongly encourages you to get a professional inspection done. Fixing minor roof problems now can help you avoid costlier and more extensive repairs later. Contact us today! www.colonialroofing.com
 
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Posted in Roof Repairs, Roof Replacement, Roofing Questions

 

Removing algae stains from your Roof

09 Feb
After you’ve cleaned out your gutters, take advantage of the nice winter weather and consider cleaning your roof. If you have black stains or streaks on your roof, it is probably a mold or mildew that loves to grow on Florida roofs.  Not only is this unsightly, it is potentially damaging, since it tends to hold moisture. Left unchecked, thick areas of algae and/or moss can hold enough moisture to cause rotting that can weaken your roof deck.
A weakened roof deck is more vulnerable to impact damage and carries a higher risk of cracking or breaking. A cracked roof opens the door for water, insects and animals to enter your home. By removing the algae and moss from your roof, you can remove this risk, brighten your home and increase its curb appeal.  This is a big project that should be completed by a professional.  Contact Colonial Roofing today to schedule an appointment. 
 
 
 
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Posted in Algae on Roof

 

Don’t Let the Term “Roof Replacement” Scare You!

07 Feb

Water damage, poor workmanship, or a combination of both could be responsible for roof problems such as warping, sagging and wrinkles. The good news is that Colonial Roofing can diagnose and resolve all of these problems. The solution may be a local repair, or it may be a roof replacement, depending on the age and condition of your roof. For example, a roof that is 10-15 years old with large, visible problems would most likely need a roof replacement. The main reason is because it is difficult to match the style and color of older shingles with replacement shingles. But don’t let the term “roof replacement” scare you. It doesn’t mean your entire roof deck needs to be pulled up and replaced. In many cases, sagging and warping can be eliminated by replacing select deck panels, adding extra nails, and installing shims and clips.

If you believe your roof may need some repair work, or if you are curious about the condition of your roof call us today to schedule an inspection.
 
 
 
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Posted in Roof Replacement

 

Is Your Roof Ready for the Rainy Season?

02 Feb

It’s been pretty dry this winter, but before you know it the RAINY season will be here. Are you ready?

If you find yourself with a water leak, there are a number of approaches you can take. We know that moving out isn’t likely a viable option (though perhaps it’s much preferred!) so let’s discuss some realistic repair options and what you need to know.
First of all, you’ll need a proper assessment and diagnosis. The biggest challenge you face as a homeowner is finding someone who can actually find the source of the leak. Where you find the sign of a leak on the inside of your home is not always indicative of where it’s originating. Many roofers could perceive a leak as an opportunity to replace the roof. In fact, many would believe it’s the only solution to the problem they see before them.
But is all that replacement necessary? And how will you, a likely newbie to roofing repair, know if a company is over-selling you? The experts at Colonial Roofing can search for the cause of the leak, from torn or missing shingles to broken seals, defective flashings, or incorrect connections between the roof and penetrations.  Finding and repairing the direct source of the problem saves the homeowner big bucks.  There’s no guess work.  Colonial Roofing will do it right.  Contact us today!
 
 
 
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Posted in Leaking Roof, Roof Repairs

 

Does Your Home Have Enough Ventilation?

31 Jan

Did you know that aside from roof repair, construction, and replacement we also specialize in making your home healthier and more energy efficient? Moisture and humidity generated in your home (through everyday events such as running showers, dishwashers, and dryers) that is not exhausted through your attic can lend to the buildup of mold and mildew in your attic space. Using an attic fan, even in the winter, can lend to your home’s efficiency and energy savings. A properly installed attic fan works by preserving the integrity of your roof and your home’s air quality by reducing the opportunities for mold and mildew growth. Attic fans actually work to your advantage all year long, expelling humidity in the winter and pushing heat up and out of your house throughout the summer.  Need to have your roof’s ventilation system checked?  Contact Colonial Roofing today.

www.colonialroofing.com

 

 

 
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Posted in Cool Roof System

 

What’s the Difference Between Concrete and Clay Tile?

27 Jan
Clay tile was used in nearly all of the early tile roofing throughout the world. Clay roof tiles were used for the installation of almost all of tile roofs in the United States until 40 years ago. However, manufacturing improvements and new technology led to the development of concrete roof tiles. Quickly, concrete roof tile climbed its way to the top, where it now dominates the market. Why has concrete tile become more popular than clay tile? In a nutshell: Concrete roof tile costs roughly half as much as clay roof tile, uses an easier installation process and can be manufactured in any color. (Source: Entegra Roof Tile)
 
 
 
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Posted in Roofing Materials, Roofing Questions, Tile and Metal Roofing

 

What is A Tile Roof?

25 Jan

You will especially see a lot of tile roofing here in Florida.  It’s a popular type of roofing, but did you know that tile roofing is one of the oldest roofing systems in the world? It dates back to 10,000 B.C. in China.  Tile roofing materials have been protecting building structures for centuries and centuries. Although the processes and formulas have adapted and been upgraded throughout time, tile roofs are still around—proving their superiority to other roofing products. Found in nearly every climate, tile roofs continue to cover structures throughout Europe, South America, the Middle East and North America. (Source: Entegra Roof Tile)

www.colonialroofing.com

Here’s a picture of Spanish tile which is popular here in South Florida.

 

 
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Posted in Tile and Metal Roofing

 

Does Your Home or Business Have a Flat Roof?

20 Jan

Flat roofs can require a great deal of maintenance. As the homeowner, you are responsible for taking care of the roof to ensure that it stays watertight. The roof must be cleaned regularly to prevent leaves and debris from clogging the drain. The drain should also be checked regularly to ensure that it is properly clearing the water from the roof.

Also, the sun will gradually cause the roof to degrade. Maintenance will be required to prevent the rubberized coating from rotting and help keep the roof watertight. If you choose this roofing option for your home or business, you can expect to spend a good deal of time on the roof tending to these maintenance issues.  Colonial Roofing can provide regular inspections and services to keep your flat roof in the best shape possible.

Contact us today.
www.colonialroofing.com

 
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Posted in Roof Coatings, Roof Maintenance

 
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