Tag Archives: roofing maintenance

How Much Weight Can a Concrete Roof Support? (2024 Update)


How Much Weight Can a Concrete Roof Support Cover

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

Some mistakenly believe that concrete roofs are endlessly sturdy, regardless of contributing factors. That is not the case. In the following article, Roofer’s Guild explores the nuances of this topic.


Key Takeaway

A concrete roof can support about 1,200 pounds per square foot. However, variables like thickness, reinforcements, and installation quality all contribute to its maximum capacity.


How Much Weight Can a Concrete Roof Hold Per Square Foot?

While the answer to this question can vary greatly on several 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.


Reinforcing the Roof

With newer installations, this is likely a common practice performed by the roofer doing the job. But in older homes, the question of weight 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 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.

Again, it is highly recommended that you get a new roof wherever you can. 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 its 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.

The condition and age of the roof are essential factors for determining the amount of weight it can support 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.

However, this is not meant to be a long-term solution 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 clear warning signs, the question of weight support becomes moot once the damage is obvious. Existing damage makes traversing the roof unsafe and a serious hazard.

There are definitely a few things to keep an eye out for regarding the condition of your roof and whether or not there may be issues currently occurring.


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 retained on the roof, it is a strong sign that the roof has a weak spot 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 provide structural support and 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 stress is being implemented onto the roof and 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.


Other Weight Considerations for Concrete Roofs

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

But that figure can drop exponentially when leaks, cracking, chipping, and other damage rears their ugly head. 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 its own issues. You can consult this roof load calculator if you are worried about snow.


Final Thoughts

A concrete roof can typically support about 1,200 pounds per square foot. However, variables like thickness, reinforcements, and the quality of installation can all alter that general threshold.

Roofing contractors and property owners can both take measures to maximize the concrete roof’s weight capacity, including performing repairs, adding reinforcements, and strengthening the trusses.


Roofing Tar vs. Silicone (2024 Analysis & Comparison)


Roofing Tar vs Silicone Blog Banner

Roofing tar vs. Silicone. Which is superior?

While most roofers and property owners are looking for a simple answer to this question, it requires a broader understanding of the specific roofing project in need of such materials.

In most cases, silicone is a superior roof sealant to tar, though the difference is not as apparent as some might imagine.


Key Takeaway

Silicone is the superior roof sealant, but tar is nearly as effective. While you can’t go wrong with either solution, silicone presents better aesthetic appeal and greater stain resistance.


Perhaps you find yourself in the process of having your roof repaired or replaced. If so, there are a few questions that you might be asking. One of these is “What is the best roof sealant for leaks.”

Since there are several different materials to choose from, like slate, asphalt, silicone, aluminum, clay tiles, and more, it is important to have the right type of material.

Generally speaking, it likely comes down to tar asphalt or silicone.

These materials have distinct advantages, but knowing which is the best one for you takes a little research and a much more thorough look.


Below, Roofer’s Guild takes a closer look at the two roofing materials by comparing them head to head.



Installation Process

Installing either roofing material can be a relatively straightforward process. For tar, you can install it using a roller, but you have to ensure that the temperature is in the right range for it to stick to the roof effectively.

The last thing you want is for the tar not to adhere properly. This could cause issues with peeling and potential water damage later on.

Be certain that the temperature is right, and you will have no issues getting the tar to stick to the roof.

Perhaps the only downside to installing a tar roof is the fumes. When the sun hits the mixture, it creates toxic fumes that can leave you feeling dizzy and cause respiratory issues.

Always wear a mask when installing a tar roof to protect against the side effects. No one wants to get dizzy and fall off the roof while installing it.

With silicone shingles, the process is a little more time-consuming but generally easy. There are no adverse side effects as far as fumes go, making it a safer option for installation.

Ideally, you should have a roofing professional come out to perform the repair or installation of your roof.

It can be dangerous to take on the job if you are not experienced, as those without experience often forego or forget the important safety procedures that should be taken during the process.

The overall installation advantage is tar roofing simply because you can roll it out relatively easily. Yes, toxic fumes are involved, but as long as you wear a mask, you should be okay during the process.


Solar Energy

Silicone shingles reflect UV rays away from your home or business. This helps keep the structure cooler without increasing the amount of energy you use through air conditioning or other cooling devices.

Until you see a sky-high utility bill, you won’t understand just how much money that can save you.

Tar, meanwhile, has similar properties. It protects the structure from harmful UV rays and helps to keep the building cooler even when the temperature is at its hottest.

This is crucial during the hotter summer months when energy bills can soar.

Properly handling UV rays is one of the most important aspects of a roof. If it isn’t doing its job, your home could turn into an oven during the hotter months.

This means cranking up the air conditioning and seeing your home energy costs skyrocket.

As both deal with the same problem in very similar ways – keeping those UV rays at bay and reflecting solar energy to keep the building cooler – either works fine for this specific concern.


Eco-Friendliness 

When it comes to roofing tar, they are very effective at keeping your home or business cooler during those warmer months, up to twice as much as most traditional energy-star certified roofing materials.

This means that you can save substantially on your energy bills. You could also see benefits from green organizations like NAHB, LEED, or others.

The one drawback here is that the fumes can be quite dangerous to be around, though the effects on the environment aren’t quite as bad.

If you do the installation yourself, be sure to wear a breathing mask to avoid those toxic fumes that could be dangerous to your health.

Silicone is also great for saving money on energy costs. Even better, silicone offers protection against things like staining, dirt, and mildew. This gives them a distinct advantage: they will look newer over time than a tar roof.

The benefits are slight, but the advantage here goes to the silicone option.

Both save you from expensive energy bills and are fairly easy to install, but Silicone protects against ugly staining, while tar roofing material has toxic qualities during installation.

Any time you can save yourself, work on your roof, cleaning, or repairs, that is a victory for you and one that you should take.


Aesthetic Appeal

With roofing tar, you are oftentimes limited to black or white. Some companies specialize in offering a variety of different colors but don’t be surprised if the majority of roofing companies in your area stick with tradition.

Still, if you can find the color that best suits your design scheme, it can match perfectly. Not only that, tar provides a smooth, seamless aesthetic without grooves or breaks.

As for silicone roofing materials, they routinely come in various colors and designs that allow you to get as specific as you want when it comes to the color of your roof.

Also, as previously mentioned, silicone is resistant to staining and dirt, which can cause unsightly spots to appear over time, making your roof look dirty and worn down.

Because of the versatility, choice of color, and ability to protect from things that may stain your roof, the advantage here goes to silicone.

While getting different colors of roofing tar is not impossible, it is not as common as the selection for silicone roofing.


Durability & Longevity

Above all else, this is the most important feature of a roof. Because of the cost involved in replacing or installing a roof, it is not something you want to do again in your lifetime.

That is why using a roofing material meant to last is imperative.

Tar roofs are very durable. This is because they remove the seams and cracks that we generally see in roofs and create a smooth surface.

This is incredibly important when it comes to dealing with high winds or keeping snow/water buildup from forming on the roof.

The latter is essential. Most roofs experience some level of damage that can lead to leaks or water damage in other home areas. With a tar roof, you limit the possibility of that happening drastically.

As we all know, water damage is a real wild card that can wreak havoc on your home or business.

Silicone roofing material is also very durable. In addition to being resistant to the damage that sunlight/UV rays can cause, it also protects against things like rain, snow, and extreme temperature changes.

The latter is very important in a roof, especially considering that most of us live in areas where the weather swings drastically depending on the time of the year.

If you don’t have a roof that can withstand a snowstorm, you could find yourself in a pile of trouble before long.

These two are about even when it comes to durability. This is because both are meant to stand up to extreme temperatures, high winds, rain, and snow.

They protect against water accumulation and help prevent those problematic leaks from occurring.

Perhaps the only real difference here is that many silicone roofs come with a 50-year warranty, which should last you for life.

Having that kind of security and peace of mind can go a long way toward picking the right roofing material for your repair or replacement.


Final Call: Roofing Tar or Silicone?

Even though this piece will give a slight advantage to silicone, the reality of the situation is that you really can’t go wrong with either material.

This is because choosing a roofing material comes down to what your own individualized, personal needs are.

Silicone might have a better overall aesthetic value and the ability to stand up to staining and mildew, but using a tar roof won’t make much of a difference.

The same goes for being energy efficient – both are great at cutting down on your overall utility bills – and their overall durability.

If you are experiencing a repair or replacement of your roof and don’t know which material might be the best for you, make sure that you consult a roofing professional.

You will be able to discuss your overall goals for the roofing projects, be able to understand your local climate better, and be made aware of any weather conditions that could affect your roof.


Can You Apply Roofing Tar in The Rain?


Apply Roofing Tar in The Rain (Blog Cover)


When you own a commercial business, your building becomes not only your home base but also one of your business’s most important aspects. It is where you reside as a business, and, much like a residential home, it is meant to keep the elements outside so that you can go about your day-to-day activities.

There will likely come a time, however, when damage has occurred to your roof that needs a quick or immediate fix.

This is normal; roofs will wear down over time, especially in areas with consistently bad weather. Heavy winds, rain, and snow will wear down a roof far quicker than being in a more weather-stable area.

For many commercial businesses, that can mean having to tar or re-tar the roof of your building. Roofing tar is used because it is both waterproof and durable, meaning that your roof will stand the test of time far longer than using a different roofing material.

But there are things you need to know about roofing tar to understand what you are getting into when you go to tar your roof.


Tarring a roof

Key Takeaway

While some brands of rubberized tar are applicable during rainstorms, it’s considered best practice to avoid applying roofing tar in the rain.


Being uneducated on the topic can put you in a spot where you apply the tar during a less-than-fitting time.


Here’s what you need to know:


Can You Apply Roof Tar in The Rain?

The short answer is that, yes, you can tar a roof in the rain. If you use a rubberized tar that specifically can be applied in the rain and the surface area is clean just before applying it, the tar could adhere to the roof. However, this is a bit more complicated than a simple yes or no answer.

The longer answer is that you should try to avoid applying the tar in the rain if at all possible. Because most roofing tar is an oily, dark mixture that is made from petroleum byproducts and coal tar, it is already slick in nature.

If there is rain and you are not using rubberized tar, there is a very good chance that the tar will not adhere to the surface to which it is being applied.

Ideally, you will have a few consecutive days of sunshine without snow or rain before you tar the roof so that the tar has time to cure.

An ideal temperature is also around the 70 degrees Fahrenheit mark, though you can apply the roofing tar at lower temperatures.


Rain on Tar

In hotter temperatures, the roofing tar could start to drip, creating a nightmare of a mess to clean up.


Pros and Cons of Roofing Tar


Roofing Tar Pros

If you have a flat roof, roofing tar is a fantastic choice. This is because roofing tar is highly resistant to ultraviolet rays from the sun that can be damaging over a long period of time.

Roofing tar is also ideal for protecting your roof during the colder months of the year when snow and water can collect on rooftops.

That waterproof ability is particularly important. Roofs that are not well-protected from water and snow can experience damage to the roof’s surface and leaks that can permeate the building.

When leaks occur and are left unchecked, they can cause mold, rot, and damage to wooden portions of the structure. This can lead to an unsafe structure, which means no one could be in the building until repairs are implemented.


Roofing Tar Cons

The downside to tar is that it is an unsustainable product. While it is being applied and cured, it gives off noxious fumes, which can be particularly hazardous to one’s health if the proper precautions are not taken from a safety standpoint.

It is highly recommended that you do not tar your roof yourself unless you have the proper experience. Roofing contractors will have the proper breathing masks to keep them safe during the application process.

This is why contractors will more often than not perform the tarring while the residents of the building are away.


Applying Roofing Tar

In the event that you must tar your roof yourself, there are things to be aware of so that the job is not only done correctly but safely as well.

Before making the attempt to tar your own roof, make sure to check for any structural damage on the surface of the roof. Once you have verified that there are no discernable problem areas, you can bring all of your materials with you and get ready to begin.

Leaving the tar in direct sunlight for an hour or so is a good idea; the sunlight will thin the tar, making it easier to apply.


Clear The Rooftop

The next step is ensuring the rooftop is clear and free of debris. The last thing you want to do is to begin the process and tar over debris.

This is not only unsightly, but it provides the risk that your roofing tar will not seal properly, which defeats the purpose of tarring a roof in the first place.


Use Smooth Strokes

When beginning the process, start at the opposite of the roof and make sure to apply the roofing tar in smooth and short strokes. Continue this process until you have reached the side of the building you entered.

Depending on just how much of the roof you are tarring, there are multiple methods that you can implement. You can use a large roller to cover larger surface areas or the entire roof, should that be your prerogative.


Consult With a Roofing Contractor

If you are using roofing tar to patch areas that have cracks, keep in mind that this is not a permanent solution.

If you see any areas that are damaged of this nature, the smart idea is to get in touch with a roofer or contractor so that they can take the necessary steps toward a more permanent solution.

Roofing tar is a cost-effective and reliable way to protect your roof, but there are definitely caveats to be aware of before applying it.

When it is done well, your roof will be prepared for the elements for a long time.