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Roofing

What Should I Ask A Roofer?

A home is probably one of the most valuable investments you have. When planning to repair or replace your roof, you’d want to ensure that you hire the most qualified contractor for the job. Here are the questions you should ask the roofer before you hire him/her. 

How Many Years of Experience do You Have in the Industry?

It is crucial to find out the number of years the roofer has in the sector. Since there are many roofers out there, you wouldn’t want to risk hiring someone who’s done fewer projects or has fewer years of experience. Ask the contractor for his/her track record and the number of customers serviced within those years. 

What Best Materials can I Use on My roof?

A professional roofer should know all roofing materials’ features and advise you on the best roof based on your climate. The roofer should also explain why you should prefer certain roof types over others and the cost for each. 

What are Your Project Timelines? 

A roofer should know the timelines expected to complete the project. You have other things to attend to, and you would not want to hire someone who cannot work within the agreed timelines. 

Also, the roofing materials can get damaged if the project takes time. However, let the roofer choose the most suitable and reasonable timelines that favor both your schedules. 

How Do I Get Updated Throughout The Project? 

As a project owner, you need to stay updated about every step of the project to keep you involved to the end. In this case, you should ask the roofer how you’ll stay informed and the channels of communication that the roofer will use. Ensure it is something you are comfortable with. 

How Long Should I Expect the Roof to Last?

Different roofs have variable lifespans. The average range is between 20 to 50 years, depending on the material. Ask the roofer how long you should expect your roof to last. The roofer should give you a guarantee of the average number of years that your new roof will last. 

Are you licensed and Insured? 

Even though the roofing project may not consume a lot of time, do not overlook the importance of hiring a roofing company that has licenses and insurance. 

The roofer should be able to prove to you that the company has valid licenses. When you hire an insured roofer, you’ll avoid paying money for damages or injuries that occurred during the project. 

Should I Expect A Written Estimate?

Before you commit to a roofing company, the roofer needs to provide a roofing estimate in written form for transparency purposes and avoid future problems. If the roofer is not willing to provide a written estimate, it could be a red sign, and you need to move on with your search.

 

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Is A Leaking Roof Covered by Insurance in Texas?

Filling a claim with your insurance company is the first thing you think of when your roof leaks. Luckily, nowadays, we are spending much of our time at home, so it’s possible to notice abnormalities on the roof that could have slipped by.

Do Insurance Pay for Roof Leak Repairs in Texas

The answer is sometimes. Whether your homeowner’s insurance coverage will pay for roof leak repairs or not depends on what caused the leaks. Generally, if what caused the leak is out of your control, the insurer should pay for repairs. However, if your roof weakened or got damaged because you failed to maintain it, your insurance company may not settle repair costs.

Whether to file a claim or not is a personal choice and may be influenced by your deductibles. For example, if your deductible is $2000 and the repair is a few hundred dollars, it is prudent to foot the bill from your pocket. However, when the damage is massive, let your insurer foot the bill.

Common Damages Covered by Most Home Insurance Policies

As a homeowner, you should be a bit keen when acquiring a policy because each insurer is different. However, most insurers cover these types of perils:

  • Wind
  • Fire
  • Hail
  • Damages from ice and snow
  • Damages as a result of falling objects
  • Lightening

What Kind of Roof Leak Will Texas Insurance Companies Pay to Repair or Replace?

You don’t need rocket science to tell a roof is faulty. Once water gets in the house, you can do very little to stop it.

Your insurer will pay for repairs or replacement of households damaged by water as a result of a roof leak. For example, if a tree falls on your house and causes damages to the roof and attics support, and water damages your ceiling, the insurer should compensate for all the damage. All you need is to pay for your deductibles and stay within coverage limits.

It is prudent for homeowners not to put off making repairs. For example, if a small leak occurs in your home, and you don’t want to make repairs to avoid worsening the situation, you may fail to get estimates and to contact your insurance company. With time, the wood in the attic rots, and mold growth occurs. The insurance company may conclude that the damage occurred because of negligence.

To be on the safe side, it is essential to contact your insurance company as soon as you notice a fault. That way, they are unlikely to say the damage could have been prevented if you acted on time.

 

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Metal Shingles vs Asphalt Shingles

Which Shingles Are Right for Me?

What are the best roofing shingles? This is a question that many homeowners are asking these days because they are interested in re-roofing their homes and are trying to make the best choice for what type of roofing material will be most effective. In fact, there is no one right answer for this question. The best roofing shingles will depend on a number of factors, such as the area in which you live, the type of home that you have and your personal preferences.

Asphalt

Most people think that asphalt shingles are the best choice when it comes to what are the best roofing materials. However, while they do provide excellent protection from the elements (especially the rain and snow) they are also one of the most expensive types of shingles. In addition to being very pricey, asphalt shingles require a lot of maintenance and can even be dangerous if not properly installed.

Metal

Other roofing materials that are considered to be what are the best are metal shingles. Metal shingles, although more costly, provide a durable roof that will last for many years. Plus, they are easy to install and can often withstand nature’s biggest predator, the fox. They are also available in a wide variety of colors so you can easily coordinate them with the rest of the home’s decor. 

Unlike asphalt shingles, metal shingles are created from an alloy of aluminum and zinc. While they are a little more expensive than asphalt shingles, they are also long-lasting and often considered to be one of the best materials. They are usually used on homes that have a lot of cedar or other trees that might be blocking the sunlight from hitting the roof at full strength. Metal shingles are also waterproof, which is good news for people who live in areas where rain often happens. They do, however, need to be painted or coated at least every few years to protect the finish from damage from ultraviolet rays.

Where to Find Help

If you are looking for what are the best materials for your next roof, you should also consider the type of roof you have. While you should always consult a professional before starting your own project, some types of roofing shingles are better than others depending on what your roof needs. Also be sure to consider the type of installation that you would prefer. This all depends on your preference and budget. To answer all these question more accurately and to get a free quote, reach out to the high quality professionals at Eldridge Roofing!

 

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Do you need a permit to replace a roof in Texas?

There’s a lot that goes into owning a home. Besides paying the mortgage, home owner’s insurance, and general upkeep, you may have to replace the roof a few times. If you live in Texas, a permit is mandatory when replacing roofs on both residential properties and businesses. 

City and county construction codes in the state of Texas must be strictly adhered to. Thankfully, the Texas Department of Insurance can answer all the pertinent questions. Any deviations could result in potential delays and fines down the road.

In the state of Texas, you are required to apply for a permit and pay an application fee. Fees vary from county to county. Once the application is approved, work can begin immediately. 

It is advisable to hire a professional contractor to determine the extent of the work. Most contractors with a solid track record and work history can also provide you with the assistance you need. In fact, it is best that the contractor handle everything involving the permits. 

In Texas, the following type of work needs a permit: new roof, re-roofing, or any other major roof repair. If only a minor repair is being performed such as replacing a few shingles, a new permit is not required. 

Never try to get by without using a permit. This is the only way the work can be inspected. While an inspector is only required to ensure the work meets minimum state requirements, they can determine whether or not a contractor has performed the work properly. 

If you are the homeowner, never attempt to replace the roof unless you have experience. You may save some money, but it’s not a good idea if you have limited knowledge.

Also, since requirements can be a bit complex, the contractor should understand every aspect before they start working. 

 

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How Do You Know When You Need A New Roof?

Owning a home comes with a lot of comfort and luxury, but it can also be challenging to keep checking all components to ensure they are in good shape. 

One of the areas that most homeowners forget to keep a close eye on is the roof. Some wait until the rainy season before discovering that the home has an issue. 

Much as you may rely on the roof’s age before getting a new one, it would be best if you kept a close eye on the following signs so that you replace your roof before severe damages occur. 

Sagging Shingles

Water is the main behind a sagging roof. Check the sagging areas and find out if they are soft and wet. If that is the case, then know that you have moisture damage on your roof. 

You should replace your roof as soon as possible to avoid damages to your property and injuries to your household. 

Leaks and Water Damage

During the rainy season, you may notice leaks from the roof. The water can damage your roof and cause it to rot in the interior. 

If you notice water damage, get someone to inspect your roof and advise you on the way forward. There are high chances that you may need to replace your roof. 

Dark Stains on the Walls

Another good sign that your roof needs a replacement is when you notice streaks and stains on the wall. It shows that your roof is leaking. 

It would be best if you replaced it as soon as possible to avoid damaging your home’s interior and exterior walls. 

Light through the Roof

You may notice unusual light in your home during the day due to cracks and holes on the roof. If left unattended, you will experience water in your home. This calls for the immediate replacement of your roof. 

Broken Shingles

One of the easiest ways to tell that your roof needs a replacement is when there are pieces of shingles in the gutter. 

The shingle granules will break due to the water damage and roof decay. Keep a close eye on the gutter and find out if there are shingle granules. If there are, get a new roof as soon as possible. 

The Bottom Line

The roof can get damaged both in the interior and exterior. Meaning, you should not only focus on one side and forget the other. Thorough inception from your roofing contractor can help you identify issues and find possible solutions.

 

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How do I stop my roof from leaking inside?

For Texas homeowners, there is nothing more devastating than a leaking roof. A leaking roof can be fixed from the inside or the outside. There various do-it-yourself methods to fix a leak from the inside. However, you have to be keen not to end up wreaking more havoc on your roof.

Before going for a roof replacement, let’s look at practical ways of fixing a leak from the inside. You will need several tools to successfully fix your roof from the inside, including caulking, leak patch, scraper, roofing tar, and a bucket.

Step 1: Identify the Leak 

The first thing is to identify where the leak is. You will need to get inside the ceiling and trace where water is dropping from as it falls into the ceiling through the attic. Remember to carry a flashlight if the ceiling is dark.

Don’t be in a hurry; sometimes, water travels for a distance from where it’s leaking before dropping into the ceiling. If possible, look for the leak when it’s showering. Otherwise, if it’s raining heavily, you will need to wait until the rain stops.

Additionally, you have to divert the water when locating a leak in wet conditions. You can divert the water by putting a nail into the hole where water drains. If it is a massive leak, you can use a bucket to collect the water.

Step 2: Seal the Leak with Roofing Tar

For impressive results, wait for the leaking point to dry. It is relatively easier to locate the leaking point when it’s dry. Besides, a roof patch sticks better on a dry surface. Since you have identified the leaking point, now it’s time to make a temporary patch. Use a marker pen or chalk to circle around the leaking point.

Sealing a leak involves pressing roofing tar on a piece of plywood or shingle. Use a knife to apply tar around the leak. Focus on the leaked patch and ensure the tar sticks firmly. You can opt to use a scraper to cover the leak point, encircle it with caulking, and spread it evenly for better results.

Step 3: Inspect the Roof

Now that you have sealed the leak inspect the roof to determine whether everything is in place. Check whether there is any part of the underlayment, shingles, or flashing damaged or affected slightly. Clear debris from the roof and check for loose nails and any wear and tear.

 

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Is it OK to replace a roof in the winter in Texas?

The ideal times to fix a roof are autumn and spring, yet it’s not hopeless if the roof deteriorates in winter. Winters in Texas are cold with icy moments, yet it sprinkles in moderate winter days where it is possible to repair a roof. Unlike fall and spring, winter roofing requires strategic planning for successful project completion.

The Winter Roofing Challenges

Three reasons make winter roofing problematic. It is difficult to secure the shingles’ adhesive to the roof properly when it’s too cold. The nails in the nail gun have less puncture impact. The shingles material is also prone to breakage. 

What Should I Do to Prepare?

Texas roofing experts will tell you the ideal temperatures for roofing year-round is between 40 degrees and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Luckily, there are winter days in Texas where the temperature rises above 40 degrees, so plan your roofing around those warmer days. 

Texas is very likely to have several days of 40 plus degree temperatures in a row, and that’s important because the roof requires sealing that needs to settle for several days. Integrate winter’s shorter days and longer nights into roofing plans too.

An advantage during this challenging time is the prices. Roof repair companies have fewer jobs during the winter, so the prices for roof repair are affordable. As always, hire a licensed and insured roof repair company with the stellar experience to repair the roof.

What Should I Not Do?

What homeowners shouldn’t do is postpone roofing repair. The roof is at its most vulnerable because of heavy snow and ice weighing the roof down. This is on top of pounding impact from hail, sleet, rain, and wind occurring year-round. Furthermore, an already weakened roof will get weaker.

Roof failure can occur anytime. While the preference for roof failure is during spring and autumn, life doesn’t go as planned all the time. So, when a roof fails during the winter, know there’s a roofing company out there who will fix the problem.

 

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How long does a tile roof last in Texas?

How long does a tile roof last in Texas? The first answer would be that it will last as long as it is installed properly. This of course depends upon the tile installation techniques and materials used as well as other weather conditions during the years you live in. The materials used are the most important part of determining the answer to how long does a tile roof last in Texas.

The type of tile used is also very important. It should be designed with weather conditions in mind so that it can withstand the heat and cold as well as moisture. Also, the type of cut the tile has is crucial to the roof’s ability to hold snow, rain, and wind. For example, when the tiles are cut with too much angle in the corners it will blow off in heavy winds. On the other hand, cutting the tiles too short can cause the tiles to rust after only a few years.

How well does it protect from the sun’s UV rays? UV Rays from the sun play a big role in the durability of a tile roof.

Another frequently asked question on how long does a tile roof last in Texas deals with the weather. A roof needs to be properly maintained in order to keep out rain and moisture. Depending on where you live will determine how much upkeep you have to do on your roof. For areas that receive heavy rainfall you need to seal your roof so that it does not rot and get damaged by the elements.

How long does a tile roof last is a very good question. It is one that many homeowners want to be able to answer. They want to know if they will still be able to enjoy the home they built ten or fifteen years ago and the answer is yes. A tile roof is relatively low maintenance. With all these factors, you can trust the Tile Roofs last for a very long time, sometimes more than 50 years, but you should still contact your local roofing pros to find out more about your unique roof and the unique factors that may affect your situation.

 

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What To Do If Water Is Leaking From Ceiling?

If you find that you have a leaking ceiling, you want to get it addressed as soon as possible. Leaking roofs can cause structural damage to your home and can cause mold buildup. 

There are some steps that you can do as soon as you see the leak from your ceiling.

Containing the Leak

Once you see the leak, you should do all that you can to contain the water coming out. Your furniture and your floor can become damaged quickly. 

Once you see the leak, lay down plastic or towels and then get out big buckets to contain a leak. You will want to make sure that you move your furniture away from the area where it is leaking.

Release Any Water

If you see there is water leaking from your ceiling, chances are that there is water pooling. Pooling water will put a good amount of pressure on your ceiling and lead to collapse. Carefully place down towels and a large bucket. 

Then you want to use a drill and drill a small hole in the center of the area where the ceiling is swollen. 

The water should flow into the bucket. Ensure that you do not do this over any electrical wires or your furniture. 

It is a good idea to wear safety goggles and gloves as the trapped water may be full of bacteria and debris.

Finding the Source

Another important thing that you will want to do is try to find the leak source. If you have access to your attic area, go up there and see where the water is coming from. 

In some cases, where the water is will not necessarily be where the roof is damaged. Water could have flown from other areas of your roof. 

If you do not have any visible damage to your roof, the leak may be an issue with your vents or flashing.

Hiring A Professional Roofing Company

The best thing you can do when it comes to having a leaking ceiling is to call a professional company out to inspect your roof. They will be able to quickly figure out where the leak is and get it repaired for you.

If you are seeing any kind of leaks coming from your ceiling, please call Eldridge Roofing today. They have many years of experience with roofing and roofing inspections. 

Remember never to delay roofing repairs as it can lead to structural damage to your home and mold and mildew buildup that can harm your health.

 

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Can You Put Metal Roof on Top of Shingles?

In purchasing a new roof, a wise choice could be to go with metal roofing. As with any major decision, various points should be considered. If you currently own a home with shingles, one point you may be considering is whether or not you are able to install metal roofing on top of your existing shingles.

Installing metal roofing on top of preexisting shingles is an option, but certain work must be done prior to installation to make sure the job is done well and according to the law.

Particular building codes exist for the city in which you live. Some of these building codes apply directly to roofing and specifically to reroofing a home. Typically you will find that reroofing over shingles is allowed, but differences can exist in laws pertaining to reroofing over a previous reroofing job.

If you find that the building code within your city allows you to reroof over shingles on your home, the next step could be to inspect your roof (or hire a professional if you are unaware of what to look for). In placing metal over preexisting shingles, it is important for your current roof to be structurally sound.

In examining your roof, professionals will look for leaks and areas that may need patched prior to the installation of the metal roof. Along with fixing leaks and making patches, areas in the roof with decay, rot, or sags will need to be addressed as your current structure will need to support the added weight.

If both the building codes in your city allow for you to reroof your home and the current structure of your roof is sound, the process of moving forward in choosing to place a metal roof over shingles may simply consist of whether or not the cost is an affordable option for you.

Some great benefits of placing metal over shingles are that it could save money on the overall cost of the project (as shingles will not need to be torn up and disposed of during installation) and that the added layer on the roof will help control the temperatures in your home.

Metal roofing is a proven material that is much more durable and will last considerably longer than its asphalt counterpart. When considering the pros and cons of reroofing with metal, you may find that such a decision would be the perfect next step.

 

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