Blog

Jun '20

10 Best Roofers in Frisco, TX

Knowing the best roofers in Frisco, TX is helpful for both consumers and contractors. As a consumer, you may need some roofing work done for your home or business. Naturally, you will want the most value for your hard-earned dollars. As a contractor, you have to know what the best roofers in Frisco, TX are doing that you may not be doing.

Most of the time, it comes down to marketing. Most people who need roofing work in Frisco, TX will Google something along the lines of “best roofers near me” or “roofing contractors in Frisco, TX.” While you may be a lot more experienced and skilled than some of the roofing contractors that rank highest on searches like these, it will be hard for the customer to see you and become aware of your service.

So in today’s post, we will be taking a detailed look at who ranks among the best roofers in Frisco, TX. We will discuss what it is that makes them come up in Google searches and why people have favored these companies so much. The goal here is to help you as a roofing contractor, understand how you might better market, and target your services.

We will be focusing mainly on Google search results. The reason we use these criteria is that quite simply; Google reviews are hugely important. 63% of online consumers state that they check Google reviews before choosing a business and that these reviews help them make purchasing decisions.

And as always, you can contact us here at Roofers Guild for more help with expanding your roofing business. Let’s get started.

Team Enoch Frisco – First of all, this company offers the basic roofing services that most people need: roof repair, roof installation, and roof inspection. Secondly, Team Enoch doesn’t just do roofing. They offer a number of other services including electrical and plumbing work. Furthermore, they are a Google guaranteed business which means that the customer can get their money back if they are not satisfied with the services of these contractors.
Envision Roofing – Envision Roofing is a company operating in Frisco that is a shining example of how to market and deliver excellent customer service during the COVID-19 pandemic. When you click their banner on Google, you see right away a list of services they offer that are specifically implemented to prevent the spread of the virus.
High Performance Restoration – This company makes it clear from the gate that are a trustworthy company. One of the ways they do this is by making their Better Business Bureau A+ rating visible for all to see. They also offer some specialty roofing services like skylight repair and installation.
Olympic Exteriors LLC – Not only does this company have a perfect 5.0 rating from 31 customers on Google, but they are also available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. But what’s more, is they make the fact that they are available at all hours clearly visible on their website and their Google Business bio.
Elevated Roofing – This is another company that is Google guaranteed. And another huge advantage that Google guaranteed companies have over ones that are not is that they get this seal of approval after Google performs a thorough background check on the business itself and the owner of the business.
Nimbus Roofing, LLC – Besides having a spiffy website that was clearly designed by professionals, Nimbus has gone through the rigorous Google roofer screening and qualification process. In this process, Google seeks to confirm the licensing and insurance documents. In the case of Nimbus Roofing LLC, Google inspected and confirm these documents for the peace of mind of consumers.
Rowley Roofing & Construction – Google will sometimes highlight companies that have undergone third-party certifications. In the case of Rowley Roofing & Construction, we see that they are certified by Networx which is a reliable resource for homeowners and buyers that connects them with quality contractors like Rowley Roofing & Construction.
Sarris and Mackir Roofing and Construction – While 12 customer reviews don’t sound like much, it still means a lot when they are all 5-star reviews. That is the kind of customer response we have with Sarris and Mackir Roofing and Construction who serve Frisco, Allen and McKinney.
123 Remodeling & Roofing – Serving a wide area can be helpful to grow your business if you can manage to get around logistics and staffing challenges. 123 Remodeling & Roofing is a company that has certainly figured that out. With a huge service area covering most of the Dallas/Fort Worth area and a perfect 5-star score on Google reviews, this company is a shining example of how excellent customer service can be maintained over a vast operational area.
Lumen Construction-Roofing – High-quality profile photos and customer perks can go a long way. Lumen Construction-Roofing is a great example of a company that utilizes these marketing tools successfully. They offer free consultations, have crisp photos and an unblemished 5-star Google review score from 45 customers doesn’t hurt either.

Breaking Down The Best Roofers

As you can see from our list of the best roofers in Frisco, TX you can see that there are many ways you can rank high too. Having a lot of good reviews, high-quality pictures that detail your services, providing certification information, having your business certified by Google, covering many different cities, providing basic and specialized roofing services, doing commercial and residential work and having a professional and attractive website are all ways you can increase traffic to your company. Some of these tactics are simple and others will take more time but they are all things you could be working toward right now to rank among the best roofers in Frisco, TX.

Roofer’s Guild Can Help

If you are looking for ways to grow your business, joining our directory of approved contractors is a great way to start. We would love to have you as a member so get in touch with us here at Roofers Guild.

May '20

Commercial Roof Insulation (Tips, Tricks, & Ideas) for 2020

The roof of your commercial building is essential, as obvious as that might sound. It keeps the elements off your head, sure, but it also keeps your product, equipment, and employees safe and protected. Without the roof, you would be in serious trouble and so would your business.

But the insulation on your roof plays an even more integral part. In this guide, you will not only learn the importance of that commercial roof insulation, but the role it plays, the types there are, and more. Consider this your commercial roof insulation guide, providing you with all that you need to know on the subject.

What is Commercial Roof Insulation?

Before we can begin, it is important to know what commercial roof insulation is and what it does. Putting it simply, commercial roof insulation is a layer of material that is installed under the membrane of the roof itself.

This layer is meant to create a thermal barrier between the inside of the building and the elements that it has to deal with outside. Commercial roof insulation plays a very critical role when it comes to reducing heating and cooling costs for not only your commercial building but in residential properties as well.

Ultimately, the goal is to limit the amount of thermal transfer between outdoor and indoor temperatures. Commercial roof insulation can be more of a substantial concern when it comes to areas that have extreme climate fluctuation. This can be either in hot or cold scenarios as both can have a substantial impact on your roof.

The more that you invest in the maintenance of your building temperature, the more that you need to think about installing the right kind of commercial roof insulation. Finding the right R-value the first time around is essential to the life of the commercial roof insulation and it can provide substantial energy savings in the process.

Without the proper commercial roof insulation, your building could struggle to regulate its temperature in an efficient manner. When this happens, your HVAC will go into overdrive to make certain the building stays at the proper temperature. That means far more costly HVAC bills, leaving you frustrated and paying far more than you need to.

Different Types of Commercial Roof Insulation

There are quite a few commercial roof insulation materials out there. They will range in material type, installation methods, R-value, and who manufactures them. Generally speaking, a skilled contractor should be able to recommend the best type of commercial roof insulation for the project that you have tasked them with.

Here is a brief overview of the different types of roofing insulation types out there:

Polyisocyanurate (Polyiso)
Extruded Polystyrene (XPS)
Expanded Polystyrene (EPS)
Mineral Wool
Spray Foam
Fiberglass

Each has its own unique set of benefits and detriments and it is important that you know what values to look for out of commercial roof insulation before making your decision. Again, a contractor worth their salt will work with you to decide which insulation best suits your needs before the installation process.

Performance Aspects of Commercial Roof Insulation

Since the roof insulation materials are installed right below the roofing membrane, the installation of the insulation all depends on the current roofing system being implemented and what the manufacturer recommends.

Insulation can be composed of a variety of materials and can range from things like rigid boards to liquid applied foam as well as insulating concrete. Simply put there is a litany of materials out there and each offers its own distinct benefits, so understanding the differences beforehand can be very important.

Here are a few key considerations when evaluating your insulation choices:

Insulation R-Value (Thermal Resistance)

R-Value is the measurement of just how well a layer of insulation is able to resist the flow of heat. The R-value of commercial roof insulation will take into account all the layers in the complete roof system. The insulation layer, meanwhile, will contribute the most R-value to your building. When comparing R-values, the higher the R-value – the more effective the material. Keep in mind that a material’s R-value will degrade over time as the material ages.

The thing to remember is that you may not always want to invest in a high R-value roof system. It is essential to consider what kind of R-value is appropriate for the environment and building as not every building is created the same.

R-value generally follows the law of diminishing returns; after certain thinness, you will no longer be getting the same level of benefit from any additional layers of insulation. Additionally, too much insulation could lead to increased stress on a roof membrane through the effects of things like a thermal shock.

Impact Resistance and Insulation Durability

Durability is one of the most crucial parts of commercial roofing and outdoor materials on the whole. Mother nature can throw some very harsh conditions our way. The goal here is that you want all of your roof elements to be able to withstand and protect your commercial building.

Your roof membrane should be able to serve as the watertight layer and all-important first line of defense in impact resistance when protecting your building. Next up is the insulation layer itself. Insulation plays a role in the impact resistance of the roofing system. It must also be able to withstand the impact conditions that can occur on in the rooftop environment.

Impact resistance for commercial roof insulation is still something of ongoing development within the industry. This is due to a result of more recent performance standards. Proper insulation selection and system design are absolutely essential to a roof system’s impact performance on debris, hail, and any other objects that may fall on your roof.

Insulation Fire Resistance

Fire-resistant roofing materials can also play an absolutely crucial role in preventing fires and limiting the damage that they can cause. Proper fire testing and certification is important if you want your roof to be protective, safe, and long-lasting. When selecting a fire-resistant roof system, it’s usually recommended that the system in question has a UL Class A fire-resistance rating or FM Class 1 rating.

Fire resistance is something that often flies under the radar when considering the right roofing insulation. But it is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to the safety and protection of your commercial roof insulation.

Don’t cut corners when it comes to your fire resistance rating because it can be what saves your building in the event of a fire. When your building suffers severe damage, you don’t want to be wondering if you should have taken the more pricy but also more reliable option.

Ask your contractor to explain the fire resistance ratings, what they mean, how they apply to your current roofing system, and whether they think it is a proper fit for your current roofing system.

Protecting Your Commercial Roof Insulation

No matter how effective the insulating material, it is absolutely crucial to keep it dry. If additional moisture is able to make its way to your roof insulation, the material can become saturated and will no longer do the job it is meant to.

This saturated material holds in water and is then made to be far less effective. Wet insulation that is holding water can also transfer that additional moisture across your roof system. This can result in leaks elsewhere in your building. These leaks can be a serious issue as excess moisture can lead to things like structural damage, portions of the roof being rendered damaged and ineffective, and so much more.

Commercial roof insulation that has water damage will also provide a lower R-value and can affect the uplift performance of a roof system. This is particularly dangerous in any high-wind area as those winds can cause profound damage to the roof, the structure, and otherwise.

When the design requires, making use of a vapor barrier to limit moisture drive into the system from the building interior. From the exterior, the use of a durable, high-performance membrane can help protect your investment and keep insulation dry, maximizing its useful life.

It cannot be overstated how important it is to keep that excess and unwanted moisture out from under your roofing system and away from the insulation. Water that is able to get under your current membrane can be bad enough, but when it soaks the insulation, it can create an unsafe environment.

Conclusion

While it should go without saying that your commercial roof insulation is one of the most integral parts of any commercial roof, it should be emphasized just how important it is. Take the steps to have regular maintenance performed so that any problem areas can be revealed before they near catastrophic levels.

Talk about your options with your roofing contractor and see what he has to say about the matter. A contractor worth their salt will be able to guide you towards the proper commercial roof insulation that will help to properly protect and insulate your building for a long time to come.

May '20

4 Common TPO Roofing Problems to Consider in 2020

There are many different kinds of roofing systems out there but one of the more common is known as TPO or a single-ply membrane. There is another kind of single-ply membrane in commercial roofing known as Ethylene Propylene Diene Terpolymer (EPDM), but we will focus on Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO) for now.

TPO is a membrane that is currently one of the fastest-growing commercial roofing systems out there. They are made up of a single layer of synthetics as well as reinforcing scrim that can be used when covering flat roofs.

This makes for a highly efficient and effective roofing system for commercial roofing buildings that tend to lean towards flat roofing. As good as these roofing systems are, there are four common TPO roofing problems to be aware of.

Why TPO Roofing?

There are a plethora of benefits to implementing a TPO roofing system onto your current commercial roof. It has great strength, durability, and flexibility. That means being able to stand up to a build-up of dirt, resistance to tears, and mold growth as well.

Perhaps its best trait is that it is energy efficient. TPO membrane is meant to reflect and resist those UV rays that can heat up a building, making it easier and more efficient to keep the building cooler. This, in turn, means that the building doesn’t need to use the HVAC system to compensate.

1) Easily Punctured Membrane

Of all the TPO roofing problems there are, this is the one that is probably the most problematic. While this roofing system can be walked on and it is both flexible and lightweight, the membrane itself can be easily punctured.

With commercial roofs, one of the more common TPO roofing problems is that there is a high volume of foot traffic when compared to other types of buildings or roofing structures. The single-ply membrane roofing doesn’t have a hard-top layer that is meant to protect the layer of synthetic rubber from things like gravel, dropped tools, or loose screws.

Common TPO roofing problems like this see those materials pushed into the rubber membrane, breaking or tearing it by creating holes in the rubber and insulation. This leaves the roofing system more vulnerable to leaks further on down the line.

With a proper primer, you can take this one off the list of TPO roofing problems by giving it an extra layer of insulation and protection that it did not have previously.

2) Expired Warranty

Here’s a key tip: when you have a new roofing system installed, purchase the warranty. This is because most manufacturer warranties will require the contractor to perform those repairs for the first couple of years after the initial install.

Warranties can also be anywhere from 15 to 30 years. Common TPO roofing problems can be solved by having a warranty on your side. Stay on top of it, because when your warranty expires, you could find yourself susceptible to higher maintenance and repair bills, especially if your facility has been encountering problems.

It cannot be emphasized enough that having a warranty is a great way to keep TPO roofing problems in check. Things happen, leaks occur, damage can be done, and having a quick, reliable fix on your side is far easier than having to find a repair service on your own and eat the costs out of your own pocket.

Keeping yourself protected is maybe a little more costly than you may have thought but it is a great way to keep yourself protected from persistent problems or future repair bills. That alone makes it worth the cost alone.

3) UV Rays Degrading the Adhesives

Wear and tear is certainly one of the most common TPO roofing problems. Actually, scratch that. It is one of the most common problems with any roofing system out there. This is because it is exposed to the elements 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

That also means constant exposure to the sun. Those harmful UV rays can perform significant damage to a roofing system over time. It can happen in a lot of different ways but the most common of TPO roofing problems is when those UV rays degrade the adhesives that are used to attach the membrane to the substrate.

Not only that, but those adhesives are also what seal the seams of the membranes together to create the waterproof seal that keeps your roof safe in even some of the harshest of weather conditions. Without that seal, your roof is vulnerable.

When there are punctures, tears, or other damage to your roof, those UV rays can come into contact with the adhesive layer and can cause a lot more damage when those adhesives become deteriorated. That is why it is important to ensure that the membrane sheets are overlapping during installation. This will block the adhesives from exposure to the UV rays and prevent those TPO roofing problems from occurring, at least not on a consistent basis.

4) Longevity

Perhaps the most common of TPO roofing problems is that they tend to not last as long as some other roofing systems. TPO roofing is definitely strong and durable but it is still something of a young technology in the roofing industry.

That means that the formula that is used to produce this TPO material is still far from perfect as the manufacturers attempt to find a balance between affordability and durability. This means that, along the way, some of these roofing systems have had common TPO roofing problems like material failures and seam cracks.

There are improvements that have been made along the way, but it may be sometime before the formula perfected. Still, TPO roofing systems are not only affordable, but they tend to be durable more often than not.

All of these TPO roofing problems are fairly common and that means that they are relatively easy to solve as well. Keeping this in mind, it is easier to keep them working optimally and avoid having to deal with major issues or damages to your roofing system.

Find a Roofer in Milford, CT

Apr '20

11 Best Roofers in Milford, CT

Looking for the best roofers in Milford, CT? You’ve come to the right place. Roofer’s Guild has created a list of the top 11 roofing contractors in Milford Connecticut. Our goal is to help you find the best company for your needs. Whether it is commercial roofing, residential roofing, or siding there is a solution to your unique demands.

1) Advantage Roofing

Advantage Roofing in Milford, CT provides both residential roofing services and commercial flat roofing services. The company shows seven 5-star reviews on Google My Business and one 5-star vote on Facebook. They bill themselves as a company that offers reasonable prices to the community and has been in business for more than 25 years.

Review Platform	Rating	Volume
Google	5/5	7
Facebook	5/5	1
Angie’s List	5/5	2
Yelp	N/A	N/A
Roofer’s Guild	96/100	N/A

2) Cruz Roofing & Siding

Cruz Roofing & Siding in Milford, CT shows several certifications on their website including the notorious GAF Master Elite certified roofing contractor. With six 5-star Google reviews and four 5-star Facebook votes, they are well-thought-of in New Haven County. They provide services for roofing (residential and commercial), siding, and gutters.

Review Platform	Rating	Volume
Google	5/5	6
Facebook	5/5	4
Angie’s List	N/A	N/A
Yelp	5/5	1
Roofer’s Guild	95/100	N/A

3) Rick’s Roofing & Siding LLC

Rick’s Roofing & Siding provides roofing & siding services (because of course, they do) and also provide window services. Their website promotes a free no-obligation estimate on roofing jobs which makes them a low-risk or no-risk option for Milford residents with roofing or window issues. Rick’s has 11 Google reviews with an aggregate rating of 4.6/5 and one 5-star Facebook vote.

Review Platform	Rating	Volume
Google	4.6/5	11
Facebook	5/5	1
Angie’s List	N/A	N/A
Yelp	5/5	1
Roofer’s Guild	94/100	N/A

4) Berkley Exteriors

Berkley Exteriors is more than just a roofing service, they are a home improvement company and can help Connecticut residents with roofing, siding, windows, doors, gutters, and decking. Their aggregate Google review rating is identical to Rick’s Roofing & Siding with a score of 4.6/5 and 11 total reviews. They also show two 5-star votes on Facebook and 18 5-star reviews on Angie’s List.

Review Platform	Rating	Volume
Google	4.6/5	11
Facebook	5/5	2
Angie’s List	5/5	18
Yelp	3.5/5	6
Roofer’s Guild	94/100	N/A

5) A Plus Exterior

A Plus Exterior is a GAF Certified roofing contractor that offers warranties for many product installations. In addition to roofing and siding services, they offer skylights, dumpster rental, and snow plowing. As a Jack of all trades, Milford residents can expect a quality service. This is reinforced when checking a 4.9 rating on 49 total Google reviews to go along with 26 Angie’s List reviews with an aggregate rating of 4.8.

Review Platform	Rating	Volume
Google	4.9/5	49
Facebook	5/5	2
Angie’s List	4.8/5	26
Yelp	5/5	10
Roofer’s Guild	94/100	N/A

6) Brown Roofing

Though their physical address is in Seymour, CT, as a service area business, Brown Roofing services Milford residents. They won Angie’s List’s 2019 Super Service Award and provide roofing services for both residential and commercial properties. They show a 4.8/5 Google review rating on a total of 41 reviews to go along with 22 5-star votes on Facebook. The company also has 27 5-star reviews on Angie’s list, showing a diverse portfolio of positive testimonials.

Review Platform	Rating	Volume
Google	4.8/5	41
Facebook	5/5	22
Angie’s List	5/5	37
Yelp	N/A	N/A
Roofer’s Guild	94/100	N/A

7) Kellner Roofing

Kellner Roofing lists its main address in Stratford, CT but shows Milford, CT as one of its top service areas. Kellner provides both residential and commercial roofing and has been in business for 26 years. The company is BBB accredited with an A + rating. They show 31 5-star Google reviews along with 6 5-star Facebook votes. Yelp has them at 4.5 aggregate rating over 10 total reviews.

Review Platform	Rating	Volume
Google	5/5	31
Facebook	5/5	6
Angie’s List	N/A	N/A
Yelp	4.5/5	10
Roofer’s Guild	94/100	N/A

8) New England Roofing & Home Repair

New England Roofing & Home Repair is officially located in nearby Orange, CT but services Milford, CT residents. They sport an impressive list of HomeAdvisor accolades on their website including the Best of HomeAdvisor 2018 winner badge. They are also BBB accredited with an A+ rating. NER has 59 Google reviews with an impressive aggregate star rating of 4.9/5.

Review Platform	Rating	Volume
Google	4.9/5	59
Facebook	5/5	2
Angie’s List	N/A	N/A
Yelp	4.5/5	3
Roofer’s Guild	94/100	N/A

9) Valley Roofing & Siding

Though they are located in Ansonia, CT … Milford, CT is listed as one of their service areas. Valley Roofing & Siding provides services for roofing, siding, and window repair. Like many others on this list, they are BBB accredited with an A+ rating. They show 23 Google reviews with an aggregate rating of 4.3. The company also has 11 5-star Facebook votes.

Review Platform	Rating	Volume
Google	4.3/5	23
Facebook	5/5	11
Angie’s List	N/A	N/A
Yelp	1.5/5	2
Roofer’s Guild	93/100	N/A

10) Burr Roofing, Siding, & Windows

Burr Roofing is officially located in Stratford, CT but their service areas include Milford, CT. In fact, their website actually shows reviews of customers living in Milford. In addition to roofing, siding, and window services, Burr also provides deck, porches, and porticoes work. Their aggregate star rating on Google is exactly 4.0/5 over 26 reviews. Burr also has 13 Facebook votes with a 4.7-star rating.

Review Platform	Rating	Volume
Google	4/5	26
Facebook	4.7/5	13
Angie’s List	N/A	N/A
Yelp	3/5	4
Roofer’s Guild	93/100	N/A

11) Roofers Guild

Roofer’s Guild provides roofing services in Milford, CT including roof repair, roof installation, roof replacement, and more. They do both residential and commercial roofing projects with affiliated contractors in Milford and surrounding areas. Considered the #1 authority on commercial roofing, Roofer’s Guild is well-respected by contractors and customers throughout the U.S.

Where Can I Find a Roofer in Milford, CT?

It’s pretty simple to find a roofer in Milford, CT. Just reference our 11 choices above and call the one that best suits your needs. Roofer’s Guild compiles lists like these to save you time on research, and so that you can always choose a qualified roofer in your area. If you’d like to do further research, we recommend visiting the websites of each of the candidates and looking at their service pages, testimonials, and any visual content they publish about previous work.

Which Roofing Reviews Should I Trust The Most?

3rd party reviews are more trustworthy than on-site testimonials unless the roofer is using a plugin that scrolls through Google, Yelp, and Facebook reviews straight from their website homepage (which is getting quite common). But reviews that don’t cite Google or another 3rd party platform beneath them may not always be the most credible. Our list abides by our own philosophy, as we’ve only included roofers who have reviews from 3rd party sources.

Why Types of Roofing Services are Available in Milford, CT?

You can find just about any roofing service you imagine among the candidates from this list. Whether you are looking for commercial roof repair, residential roof repair, or siding work, someone in this group will have you covered. At Roofer’s Guild, it is our goal to match you with the best possible roofer for your requirements, and we can actually walk you through the process over the phone. We look forward to discussing your roofing options in Milford, CT.

Call 877-282-8968 for Roofing Services in Milford, CT

Mar '20

What The Devastating Nashville Tornadoes Mean for Roofing Repairs

Bricks crumbling around huge, gaping holes. Roofs torn from homes and businesses. Cars flipped over and broken glass littering the area. Nothing but seemingly unreal destruction all around.

The recent Nashville tornadoes have had a tremendous impact on the area. The area was struck with tornadoes as part of a powerful storm system that hit the area last week. Twenty-five people were killed, hundreds more displaced, and nearly 50,000 residents of the city have lost power due to the intensity of the storm.

The National Weather Service had estimated that the swath of devastation from this tornado – with an EF-3 rating – stretched on for roughly 50 or so miles. Businesses, homes, schools, and popular city attractions were either severely damaged or outright destroyed.

That EF-3 rating had maximum winds that were estimated to be around 165 mph which put it just one mile shy of the EF-4 category threshold. The highest possible rating is an EF-5, a rarely seen threshold, luckily.

In Cookeville, another nearby suburb of Nashville, another tornado hit with winds exceeding 175 mph (281.63 km/h) leaving official damage estimates unable to be determined in short order.

Extensive Damage in Nearby Cities / Towns

Perhaps the hardest-hit area is that of Five Points. Known for its thriving dive bars, chic shops, and delicious restaurants, there are signs and trees that were ripped from the ground, businesses smashed beyond recognition, and roofs simply peeled from walls.

Around 40 buildings in Nashville proper alone were flatted and the damage was so severe that officials didn’t know how to quantify the damage done even a few days later. Figuring out the cost of such repairs would be impossible in the short term.

This widespread damage and destruction has meant a need for the Nashville community to come together. Those lucky enough to walk away now look to pick up the pieces of their lives, repairing or replacing damaged homes and businesses along the way. It will be a long process, but Nashville is already working hard to move forward from the tornado that brought with it such chaos.

The Roofing Community

In a stroke of irony, the roofing community was also affected as the Nashville tornado inflicted damage to multiple roofing companies and their home base of operations. It just went to show that no one went unaffected by the devastating storm, but it also helped to galvanize the community in the wake of the Nashville tornado.

Branches of the Mr. Roof company, which is owned by the Ohio-based Crane Renovation Group, worked diligently to respond to customers from their nearby branches. Not only that, but some branches also responded to the Nashville tornado by sending three pallets of tarps from Atlanta in order to help with the cleanup and repair effort.

The Crane Renovation Group said that they were thankful that the tornado struck after their Hermitage, TN branch had closed for the evening. The building, which has been in use since 2010, sustained heavy damage from the Nashville tornado and is considered to be a damaged zone. The fact that no employees were in the building is a silver lining in the face of destruction.

In addition, the company has offered to match any donations towards the Nashville tornado relief effort by its employees. It is this kind of drive and compassion that has galvanized a community that has been drastically impacted by the devastating storm.

What Does This Mean for Roofing Repairs?

Because of the widespread impact of the Nashville tornado, it means that cleanup and repair efforts will likely be delayed. As mentioned previously, some local roofing companies had damage done to their buildings, leaving them in a less-than-optimal position to offer assistance for others.

These roofing companies will need to make quick repairs to their own buildings in the wake of the Nashville tornado wherever possible. When this happens, they will then be able to further assist those who face damage to their roofing, either in the commercial or residential field.

Those damages, meanwhile, run the gamut. Some experienced minor damages at worst, things that can either wait or can be repaired through do-it-yourself methods. Those are the fortunate group from the Nashville tornado.

There are also those who have experienced nothing short of devastation. Homes and businesses lost due to the destructive power of the tornado. Help from the roofing industry may not do a lot as the damage is quite extensive for some.

Industry Adjustments for Roofers

The roofing industry will no doubt have its hands full for the next several months throughout Nashville. Getting businesses and homes back into optimal shape will take time as the sheer amount of devastation is so vast that it left many shocked.

If the early response from roofing companies in the wake of the Nashville tornado are any indication, the repair process will be a tough and long road, but it will be paved with hard work and good intentions. Those are the foundations toward the arduous process of bringing Nashville back to what it was prior to the tornado.

And while the lives lost can never be replaced, the roofing industry will do what it can to bring a sense of security and peace back into the Nashville community. The Nashville tornado wreaked havoc and widespread destruction in its wake, but the community maintains its hope.

Pitching In

As mentioned, the roofing community will have its hands full in the wake of the Nashville tornado. As much as the roofing companies can do, it will take a good deal of time to get to everyone, and they will need help along the way.

Members of the Nashville community will no doubt contribute in whatever ways that they can, restoring schools, businesses, and homes to working order once again in an attempt to move forward from the devastation of the storm.

The move towards normalcy, towards rebuilding all that has been lost, will be one that takes time in the wake of the Nashville tornado. The Nashville community is already galvanizing in the face of the devastation, providing hope going forward.

Feb '20

11 Common Sense Roofing Safety Tips for 2020

It should go without saying that roof work can be a dangerous business. Even on the smallest buildings, a fall could cause serious injury. Not only that, just about every aspect of being up on a roof is dangerous.

The ladders, any perimeter walls, skylights, decking, and physical exposure to the elements can put roofing contractors at risk while working up on a roof. That means taking necessary precautions and exercising safety implementations to ensure that everyone who ventures up onto the roof is doing so as safely as possible.

Roofs are not designed for foot traffic. Still, that doesn’t mean that foot traffic isn’t there. Roof inspections and repairs are a necessity, and these require workers and contractors to have to traverse across metal panels and membranes.

The majority of roofing accidents are the result of trips or falls from heights. This results in hundreds of deaths every year, as well as a huge array of non-fatal injuries that, are serious in nature.

That is why implementing the following safety procedures is of the utmost importance. Implement these common-sense tips and you will be able to traverse the rooftops in a far safer manner and minimize your risk for disaster.

1) Use Common-Sense

One of the most common sense means of safety is, well, common sense. Use your cautious instincts when up on a roof. Don’t do anything blatantly or obviously stupid and you will generally be okay. It is when people get careless and don’t think that trouble can occur.

Common sense means moving slowly and cautiously. It means watching your footing and knowing where your tools are. It means being alert to your surroundings and making certain that you are doing everything in your power to remain safe and to avoid any nasty spills off the roof.

As the saying goes: “common sense isn’t so common these days” and that is sadly the truth. Avoid those careless mistakes and you could save yourself a lot of pain.

2) Avoid Bad Weather

This is not always an option for contractors because the job needs to be done when it needs to be done. But if at all possible, avoiding the elements is another key to safety. It is particularly dangerous when the weather is colder.

Slips and falls happen on iced-over roofs all the time and there is only so much that can be done when Mother Nature enters the fray. Again, practice caution and be wary of areas with moisture as it can freeze and turn into ice.

In horrible rain and wind, you should avoid the roof altogether. Wind can knock you off balance and send you tumbling to the ground. Instead of looking for the precise safe wind speed for working on roofs, you should use your better judgement. If it can possibly wait, try to avoid those adverse weather conditions and wait until the situation is optimal.

3) Don’t Use Cheap Ladders

One of the most common occurrences that lead to accidents on rooftops is that the ladder is past its prime and should not be in use. Think about it: that ladder can be the difference between you safely traversing on the roof and tumbling down to an unfortunate injury. Why would you chance it?

While it is understandable that cost can be a concern, safety should be a greater concern. Invest in a quality ladder that isn’t rickety and wobbly or has been around longer than you have. Get a ladder that is sturdily built and will support you solidly.

4) Dress Accordingly

Mobility and flexibility are important for safe roof work. That is why it is imperative to wear clothes that aren’t restricting yet aren’t hanging off of you. You need to be able to react and move around properly in order to maintain safety.

Tripping and falling because your pant legs are too loose is not only embarrassing but dangerous as well. That is not a story you want to have to tell anyone from your hospital bed. Keep your pants secure and away from your feet and you should be able to avoid getting tangled up in your own clothing.

Also, try to avoid wearing clothing that has rips or tears. This just adds to the possibility of snagging on the roof which adds to the danger. Of all roofing safety topics, clothing should be the easiest to comply with.

5) Wear Proper Footwear

In the same vein, it is essential to have the proper footwear when up on a rooftop. Make certain that you have rubber-soled shoes in order to get the maximum grip and traction. Slips are the most common reason for rooftop accidents, and they can be mostly prevented.

A quality pair of slip-proof boots will cost you a little money but consider it an investment in your safety. You will find yourself wishing you made the investment if you take a tumble from a rooftop and find yourself laid up in a hospital bed.

6) Protect Your Noggin

One preventative measure that seems common sense is headwear. Having a helmet feels like a no-brainer (pun intended), but it would shock you to know how many contractors don’t wear them.

The fact of the matter is that slips and falls happen. Accidents are called that for a reason. Making certain that you are protected in the event of an accident is imperative. Don’t leave yourself in a vulnerable position because you were lazy or careless.

Slap a helmet on your head before heading up to the roof. Hopefully, you won’t need it, but it could save your life.

7) Harness The Power

Believe it or not, there are plenty of instruments out there that are meant to help keep you from hurting yourself while up on a roof. That is why the roof safety harness was created, after all. Simply put a roof harness is there to keep you from taking that unfortunate plunge.

Like with any other piece of safety equipment, its use can be avoided because of cost. But again, investing in your safety is something you should be doing. Having a harness will likely save your butt more than a few times over the course of its life, making it more than worth the price of picking one up. Depending on the roof-type, you may need steep roof safety equipment.

8) Walkway Paths

If at all possible, walkway paths can be welded easily to an existing roof. This gives even and safer footing to those who have to traverse up there. And at the end of the day, that should be the first priority of anyone who has to go up on the roof.

Because they are so easy to add, it should be a must for any roofing contractor. It is just another element of safety that can be implemented to protect both yourself and your workers from disaster.

9) Implement Policies & Procedures

One way to eliminate the laziness that can lead to common rooftop accidents is to implement safety procedure guidelines for your business. Make it mandatory to implement those best practices with punishment for those who don’t follow the rules.

Employees may not like it, but it will protect them from harm and you from any legal harm. More importantly, it promotes safety. Even though some might not want to bother putting those practices into play, they should be used each and every time to ensure that every person from your company who ventures up on a roof is safely protected.

10) Don’t Drink & Climb

You would be surprised at how many people think it is okay to have an adult beverage and get up on a roof. Needless to say, this is a recipe for disaster. This goes for both commercial and homeowner roof safety.

Make certain that you have all of your faculties about you before climbing up onto a roof. Any distractions or limitations can lead to a common mistake that could send you tumbling off of the roof. Mistakes like these are so easily avoidable, yet still, happen far too often due to carelessness and a generally blasé attitude.

11) Avoid Distractions

In this day and age, this is a difficult one to adhere to, especially for business owners who need to be available at all times. But when your smartphone is constantly going off, it just leads to distractions that could compromise your safety.

If at all possible, put your phone on silent while on the rooftop. This will help avoid those distractions that can lead to dangerous situations. If this is just not possible, perhaps pass off message duties to someone on the ground who can relay the information to you while you are busy on the job.

There are about a hundred other things that you can do to prevent common accidents from happening while on the rooftop. Most of these are simple things that take very little thought or effort; some are investments in the proper clothing and equipment.

The key here is implementing all of these measures to make certain that both you and your workers are as safe as they possibly can be while in a dangerous position. A little common sense could help substantially cut down on the number of accidents that occur on rooftops, but people just don’t use them. Don’t be like those people; think safe.

Feb '20

How Much Weight Can a Concrete Roof Support?

When considering roofing materials, there are a lot of factors to take into consideration. Durability, cost, and a litany of other things that can impact which material you go with for your residential or commercial roof.

But weight capacity is another important one. And if you think that going with concrete means that it can by proxy support anything, you should do your homework first.

If you want to know “how much weight can a concrete roof support?” you are asking the most important question before committing to the install of that concrete roof. This guide will cover the question “how much weight can a concrete roof support?” and a litany of other things.

So, How Much Weight Can a Concrete Roof Support?

While the answer to this question can vary greatly on a number of factors within the concrete itself, a good rule of thumb is around 1,200 pounds per square foot depending on the thickness of the concrete and whether or not it has any reinforcements.

A common mistake is that amateur roofers just assume that concrete is impossibly strong, but it has weight restrictions just like any other material. Knowing “how much weight can a concrete roof support?” is one of the most vital questions when preparing for the install of that concrete roof.

Reinforcing the Roof

With newer installations, this is likely a common practice performed by the roofer doing the job. But on older homes, the question of “how much weight can a concrete roof support?” becomes irrelevant if it is quite old or has experienced a lot of damage.

While a complete replacement is the most ideal of scenarios, the cost of a new roof is often not so realistic. That is where reinforcing the roof can help to get a longer life out of your roof while implementing a fast, quick repair and reinforcement that will keep the structural integrity of the roof sound for some time to come.

Again, it is highly recommended that, wherever you can, you get a new roof. Still, there are a couple of ways to reinforce your roof to give it a little boost in terms of life span.

Addressing Repairs with Patching

If the deterioration or damage to your concrete roof isn’t terribly bad, it can be patched to extend the life a little longer. But if you are implementing extensive patchwork, it is important to note that you should not assume that it can take on a proper load and will never be able to handle the maximum weight.

How much weight can a concrete roof support? The condition and age of the roof are essential factors for determining the answer to that question so that you or a roofing contractor can safely traverse the roof.

Strengthening Existing Trusses

This is a way to add durability to your roof. By using 2×4s, you simply combine them with any existing trusses that may be in place from one end of the structure to the next. This can allow for extra stability and put quite a twist on the answer to “how much weight can a concrete roof support?”

This is not meant to be a long-term solution, however, if the roof is showing signs of wear and deterioration. Exercise caution whenever getting on the roof and understand that this is just prolonging the eventual replacement of the roof entirely.

Signs That the Roof is Failing

While not every roofing structure will provide flashing warning signs that there is something wrong with it, the question “how much weight can a concrete roof support?” It becomes moot when the damage becomes noticeable. This is because that damage makes traversing the roof unsafe and a serious hazard.

There are definitely a few things to keep an eye out for when it comes to the condition of your roof and whether or not there may be issues currently taking place.

Leaks

The biggest issue plaguing roofing systems, concrete roofs too, is in the form of leaks. If you see multiple wet spots in your ceiling or moisture being retained on the roof, it is a strong sign that the roof has a weak spot in it that can lead to bigger issues.

Leaks are a huge issue not only for the roofing system itself but for the structural integrity of the rest of the building. If that water is allowed to persist, it has the chance to rot and decay wood that could be providing structural support and can lead to mold growth, making it a hazard to the air quality in the building.

Cracks

Cracks are a clear indication that there may be problems with your roof. This can mean that there is stress being implemented onto the roof and that it is spreading outward in other directions. This can lead to serious problems with your concrete roof, making it structurally vulnerable and making it unsafe to be near.

Small cracks are not a terribly big idea, but calling in a proper roofing contractor to survey the scene and understand the situation will allow you to stay ahead of any potentially disastrous situations. It is always better to exercise caution in scenarios such as these.

How Much Weight Can a Concrete Roof Support Again?

There are so many factors that determine “how much weight can a concrete roof support” that it isn’t a black and white question. When completely healthy and showing no signs of wear and tear, a concrete roof can safely support around 1,200 pounds (0.54 t) per square foot.

But when leaks, cracking, chipping, and other damage rears its ugly head, that figure can drop exponentially. If you see areas of your concrete roof that look concerning, the safest bet is to avoid stepping in those areas and leave it to the professionals.

Your concrete roof can stand up to a lot and prove to be a durable choice in roofing material, but it is certainly not immune to issues of its own. If you are worried about snow, you can consult this roof load calculator. And before asking “how much weight can a concrete roof support”, you need to make certain it is in optimal shape.

Feb '20

What is Roof Decking? (Definition + Tips)

What is Roof Decking?

In short, the roof deck is the roofing material that lays between the structural components of a roof (the joists and trusses), the insulation, and the waterproofing layers (coatings, roofing materials, layers, etc). The roof deck is the section of the roof where everything else is placed. Because of this, it needs to be strong enough to hold weight and be durable enough to cope with having some give.

There are a wide variety of materials that can be used for roof decking. This can include anything from wood to cement, concrete to steel. The type of material used depends on just how much weight that it needs to carry.

There are other factors involved including the weight of any air conditioning equipment, rainfall in the area, and any potential build up of snow. Special features, something like walking decks or rooftop swimming pools or bars may also be needed for extra support.

The type of roof decking varies based on whether you have a commercial or residential need. Residential buildings will likely use wood for the roof decking because it stands up to the weight of just about anything that will be placed on top of it.

Types of Roof Decking

Generally speaking, there are three different types of roof decking to keep in mind: tongue and groove, plywood or OSB sheathing, and plank sheathing. Understanding the different kinds can give you a good idea of what to expect out of each.

Tongue and Groove

Tongue and groove decking is usually done with a 2×6 “tongue” formed on one edge of the board. This is meant to fit snugly into the “groove” in the board that is adjacent to it. This can be something of a challenge to replace as it is something that is not readily available in most lumber yards.

Generally speaking, this is a highly durable and stout kind of roof decking. The only time that it will need to be repaired is when it has had any extensive exposure to moisture. Be sure to take a long look when going over your tongue and groove roof decking.

Plywood or OSB Sheathing

When it comes to plywood or OSB sheathing, you may have seen it before under the false term of Wafer Board. Builders began using this method because it has strength and longevity against splitting. These methods became more and more popular in the early 1980s and 1990s and is now almost exclusively used by builders across the industry.

There are a few points that you should definitely be aware of during the installation process. Make sure to install the boards using staggered vertical joints and make certain they are parallel to the ridge line. The vertical joints that are between the boards have to be supported along the whole length and need to be nailed securely.

It is also important to ensure that you have sufficient support with an absolute maximum of 600 mm between the two rafters. Those plywood panels should be installed with 3 mm spacing between each panel unless it has been stated differently by the manufacturer.

Plank Sheathing

Plank sheathing, meanwhile, is typically something that was used before plywood. Wood shingles tend to be expensive when it comes time to tear down and replace them, so using re-sheathing over the entire roof is a far cheaper method.

Plank sheathing is generally susceptible to distortion thanks to weather changing. This can result in constant expansion and contraction that can wear down those planks over time, making them brittle with enough expansion and contraction.

It is also important to stagger your joint boards. When a number of those adjacent boards join on the same support or rafter, it can be possible for the deck to move due to all that distortion to a crack line in the singles. All the wood boards used have to be properly conditioned to be at a moisture equilibrium.

There should also be a sufficient number of fasteners to prevent any kind of buckling and each board should be fastened with at least two nails in each rafter to ensure that it is held securely but without too much force.

Protecting Your Roof

Generally speaking, you roof deck is meant to hold the fasteners to secure the roof. Sure, it can support foot traffic and the occasional snow load that will become an inevitability with any roof out there. If that wood is compromised, it might not be able to provide the level of holding power that will allow the roof to last its suggested lifespan.

Having a proper roof deck is the foundation of any good roofing system. The deck is meant to resist gravity loads as well as lateral loading from things like the wind and other seismic forces. A proper roof decking will meet design requirements like component anchorage technique, deflection resistance, fire resistance, surface characteristics, and dimensional stability.

There are a number of reasons that property owners should be interested in the type of deck that is on the building and the condition that it is in. Among them are the following reasons:

Condition of the roof deck – is it detached, corroded, unsafe, or damaged? Has the deck been deflected or deformed to the point where it ends up ponding water?
Stability – Is the deck capable of handling a much heavier roofing system like a built-up roof membrane that has a ballasted single-ply system?
Resistance – If the mechanical fasteners are going to be used to attach insulate or a single-ply membrane to the deck itself, will that deck be able to provide the necessary pullout resistance? There are some single-ply systems that require a stronger steel deck in order to meet wind design.
Removal – If the roof does need to be patched, can the sections of the deck be safely replaced or removed if necessary? There was a point in the past where it was common to remove that deteriorated decking and then replace it with metal decking and a rigid roof insulation. This can actually be quite unsafe and is definitely not recommended. Instead, new form boards and galvanized wire mesh should be used. Make certain that the galvanized wire mesh is attached to the existing wire near the perimeter of the patch. This is done for safety reasons.
Clearance – If the existing roofing is going to be removed all the way down to the deck and the tapered insulation or a sloped fill is going to be the way to solve the ponding problem, you need to know if the clearance at access doors, windows, and other equipment hatches will be imperiled.
PV Panels – What about adding PV panels to the building roof? If this is part of the plan, you need to know how they will be attached to the structure.

The decking of your roof plays an important part in supporting the overlaying material. The material itself is certainly important for keeping the elements away and holding up to the constant wear and tear that comes with exposure to the elements, but it doesn’t do its job with the proper roof decking.

Addressing Wooden Deck Problems

Make certain to properly ventilate your attic in order to eliminate any excess moisture that can be absorbed by deck panels. This reduces the amount of shrinking and swelling that the wood experiences, helping it last for longer without turning brittle and breaking.

If that brittleness occurs, it can really compromise the structural integrity of your roof as a whole and you will have to have very costly repairs or replacements done immediately to prevent any safety hazards.

Regardless of what style of roof decking that you choose, you need to make certain that it is installed properly so that you get the proper weight support that your roof needs. Take into account any additional snow weight if your area sees heavy snowfall so that your deck does not bow and crack under additional pressure.

Much like the foundation of your building, the roof decking is the basis on which the rest of the roof operates. Without a proper roof decking, your roof will eventually buckle under the pressure and need to be replaced.

Save yourself a lot of time and labor by making certain that your roof decking is installed properly and rated to handle the weight that will be on your roof. You can then focus on implementing the roofing materials that you need to get the right roof for you.

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Feb '20

The Roofing Alliance Announces Winners at NRCA’s Industry Awards

On February 5, 2020, the Roofing Alliance, the foundation of the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA), announced this year’s winners of the Construction Management Student Competition, Best of the Best Award and the Gold Circle Award Winners. They were recognized at an NRCA Industry Awards Ceremony and Cocktail Reception, according to Yahoo Finance.

Student Competition

Each of the five finalist teams gave oral presentations as the final stage of the sixth annual Roofing Alliance Construction Management Student Competition. Each of the teams gave their proposals for installing a new roofing system on the Ford Center, the practice facility for the Dallas Cowboys. The Ford Center was originally installed by KPost Roofing & Waterproofing.

The oral presentation scores were ultimately combined with the written proposal scores of each time in order to determine the winner. The Roofing Alliance announced that Texas A&M University was the winning school while Samuel Short of Auburn University won the Best Individual Presenter award.

Best of the Best Award

This award is now in its 20^th year, winners of the Most Valuable Player were recognized as was the winner of the Best of the Best. The Best of the Best award is an award that is co-presented by Professional Roofing magazine and OMG Roofing Products based out of Agawam, MA.

Todd Dunlap, who was an MVP Winner of Outstanding On-the-Job Performance and Workmanship as well as a finalist for other noteworthy contributions outside the workplace, was named the Best of the Best winner.

Dunlap is a warehouse operator, superintendent, equipment operator, and foreman with Frost Roofing of Wapakoneta, OH. Dunlap has continued to demonstrate exemplary performance as well as an eagerness to continue to learn. He continues to master tasks and assignments each day.

He continues to show a commitment to leading by example while embracing positivity and the passion for those around him. This has earned him the total trust and complete respect from the entire Frost Roofing organization as well as all those who have worked with the company.

Dunlap continues to help others as well, especially during the holidays, where he opens his home to those who have no place to go. He clearly lives his life to serve others and strives to help coworkers wherever possible.

Gold Circle Award

The Roofing Alliance, as well as NRCA members, are encouraged to submit their best work each year in order to win a Gold Circle award for either Outstanding Workmanship and Innovative Solutions or for Safety Preparedness and Performance.

Since the award’s inception, more than 99 winning companies have been recognized for their achievements. This year’s Gold Circle Winners are:

Outstanding Workmanship and Innovative Solutions

Chadwick Technology Pty. Ltd., Killarney Heights, NSW, Australia for the Abu Dhabi International Airport Midfield Terminal, United Arab Emirates
The Durable Slate Co., Columbus, Ohio for Steeple Square, Dubuque, Iowa

Safety Preparedness and Performance Winner

CFE Inc., Elmira, New York for Kellogg’s® Florence, Phase I, Florence, Kentucky

Feb '20

Roof Leak Causes Delays for College Basketball Game

Earlier in the week at the International Roofing Expo in Dallas, there was a discussion about resilience and why resilient roofing is so important for protecting building operations. When you think about it, it’s simple: the roof has one job and that is to protect a building so that the operations are not disrupted.

That message became crystal clear on Wednesday, February 5, according to Facilities Net. Because of a roof leak at the historic Hinkle Fieldhouse at Butler University in Indianapolis, a top 20, nationally televised college basketball game was delayed.

The game between Villanova and the Butler Bulldogs wound up being delayed for 19 minutes. Heavy rains that permeated the area prior to tip-off eventually led to water pouring into the 92-year-old arena, ultimately pooling on the floor.

And while there were plenty of jokes made about the situation, a leaky roof is a serious matter. And if it weren’t for the staff at the fieldhouse, the situation could have wound up being a lot worse than it was. The staff went to work quickly, rigging up a red bucket in the rafters to catch the remaining water that was leaking through.

Other members of the staff worked quickly to mop up the puddles on the floor while Butler officials tried to keep a good sense of humor about the entire endeavor. The situation wound up being resolved quickly but just goes to show the importance of a quality roofing system.

Needless to say that both Villanova and Butler now understand the importance of having a working roof overhead and hope they have dealt with their last leak-based delay for the remainder of their playing days.

While the roof repairs have yet to begin, Butler wound up winning the game 79-76, ending it on a dramatic buzzer-beater shot.