Roofing

[Mike50]

I want to have my roof inspected.
It is Not leaking for 6 years now and was replaced about 10 years ago.
I Do lose 2 or 3 (tar) tiles annually when wind kicks up though.
Also, there are a few 12-18 inch areas where previous owner has masked
old damage with acoustic.
It's possible that was before last roofing was done.

Is it foolish to wait until leaks happen?

Anyone know what I should be looking for regarding credentials etc..?

Should I look for someone who does roofs exclusively when getting estimates?
I'm assuming estimates are free???

thanks..

Mike

[Bob NH]

First, you can inspect your roof by walking over it if it is flat enough. You can't really see leaks unless there is damage that is apparent on the surface.

If you have a roofer inspect it, I can virtually guarantee that he is going to tell you that it needs repair, at a cost of at least $500. He may tell you that it really needs complete replacement at $10,000.

[jadnashua]

You can do a pretty good inspection from the ground with a pair of binoculars. You are looking for bare spots where the roofing has lost most of the granuals, cupping where the edges are curled up, excessive brittleness, missing sections. The other big things to look at (and here you may need to go up there) are flashing that has been compromised like around a chimney, vent, evidence of leaks as shown by spongy sheeting (you can probably tell as well or better from inside of the attic if you have one), etc.

An inspection may not be free, but may be deductable if additional work is done.

[Mike50]

I'm unable to inspect myself so I will find someone reliable who can.

I've heard that you can get a 25 year roof. Are these guarantees proven and what makes it different from a 10 year roof (other than price), for example. Just higher quality material I'm guessing....

What are the "state of art" materials. If I do wind up doing it--I would
premium materials.

I'd like a mexican style (ceramic) roof but I was told that it's probably not rated as such...?

[jadnashua]

There are asphalt roofs that are rated for 40-years. Will you get that out of them, probably not. Is the warranty worth anything, not really as most of the cost is in the labor and basically none of them include that.

If you have problems with wind, and want a roof that will outlast you, consider a metal roof. Those that look like stained wooden shakes will last a very long time. Some will give you a lifetime warranty that not only includes materials, but labor as well. And, depending on where you live, having a fireproof roof can give you a very good break on house insurance. Plus, it acts as a radiant barrier that blocks over 90% of the radiant heat.

One company has some on a golf course clubhouse - installed in 1927 or so. Around 1999, they had a panel analyzed to determine how much life it had left. Came to around 1900 more years. Most are good to about 130mph, too. Really popular in FL. Can't remember the company I found that had the best product - but they were in TX. Been in business since around the 1940 era...NEVER had a BB complaint EVER.

Tried to get our condo people to bo with them, but politics didn't work out.

[Mike50]

Metal sounds very interesting Jim. I didn't know of that option.
I'm just trying to imagine how our high desert summer temps would factor into that scenario.

Is there any possibility at all of reinforcing the roof to make mexican tile an option or a lighter composite?

[Cass]

You will find that the differance between a 20 and 40 year roof is the material. Here is the weight to year ratio.

Note: weights are approximate pounds per square (10' x 10' area) and are not certified
20-year (3-tab variety) 210-200 pounds

25-year (3-tab variety) unspecified
25-year (dimensional variety) 240-pounds
30-year Atlas product 240-250 pounds
30-year (other than Atlas)300-pound
40-year350+ pound

[jadnashua]

A tile roof requires a significant strength to survive. SUre, with enough money, you could do it.

Metal roofs come in all sorts of styles and colors. The stuff that looks like shakes is nice because it provides about 3/4" of air space between it and the roof decking. The metal reflects over 90% of the incoming radiant heat, and the air gap under it gives natural air flow for any that does get through. They are more common in the snow-belt or in areas where there are high winds (FL, coastal TX, etc.) but would work great in a desert location, too. The textured ones with all of the folds are quite strong. The best finish is made with Kynar (sp?). You can get metal roofing made out of both steel and aluminum. My preference is AL, since it won't rust if the finish is compromised.

Some people like the simplisitic look of smooth panels with the reinforcing ridges, but except for very special circumstances, I'm not impressed. I've seen some houses with it, and if it is designed properly, can look good, though.

Unless you look twice, the stuff designed to look like shakes can fool you from the ground, the main giveaway is that the finish is a little shiney.

Look into it. It is quick to install, and light, so it is something you might consider doing yourself. Because it is so light, you MIGHT not need to remove the original roof.

[jadnashua]

Here's one you might like. No idea of costs.

[Mike50]

Great advice as usual guys. I LIKE that roof BTW.

Jim, I took your advice about using binoculars....and...I could be wrong...but I don't like what I see. I'll elaborate on that at a later time after I get someone up there...

Now if I can just get a roofer to return calls for an estimate.
Must be nice to have so much business no one has time for an estimate.
geesh...

[Mike50]

I've had a couple estimates done. And...I guess I'm still unclear about whether on not a 30 year roof will in actuality last 30 years.
I want to know what I'm paying for.
Metal shingles are not an option where I live. Not recommended.
Desert Santa Ana winds blow them off apparently.....

I know I need some work done. And some additional vents I want too.


Mike

[Mikey]

Hey, Jim, got any idea of the manufacturer of that roof? I like it!

mike

[Cass]

If installed according to directions and if the attic is ventelated well they should last the 30 years. If they don'y they should be prorated.

[jadnashua]

http://www.metalroofing.com/v2/content/manufacturer/ Don't remember, but it was from one of these.

Flat metal roofs may not be that wind resistant, but many of the 'shaped' ones are guaranteed to 130mph and are used a lot in hurricane areas. As with anything, if it isn't installed properly, you'll have problems. The model for that one in the picture is Verona Peak (you can see that if you move your cursor over it and try to save it).

[Mikey]

Found it (Accel); thanks.