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Does flashing go over or under shingles?

Headwall flashing should expand up behind the exterior wall and down over the roofing material. Roof flashing should be installed sot that it overlaps the roof-covering material, with the exception of asphalt shingle roofs. For reasons of aesthetic, the part of the headwall roof flashing that extends over asphalt shingles is frequently covered with a row of asphalt shingle tabs. Examples of where roof flashing is installed:

• The roof plane meets a vertical surface like a dormers or walls.
• Roof flashing is installed around roof features, like chimneys, vents, skylights.

Should flashing be caulked?

During your monthly walk around your home, inspecting the house for issues, you notice some roof flashing is sticking up or missing.  Instead of calling a professional roofing contractor for something so minor, can you get up and put it back in place with caulk?

Some roof flashings are built into items. These areas, you can do a temporary fix yourself of have a roofing contractor do it if roof tops aren’t your thing. However, this is only a temporary repair, and any roofing contractor that knows How to install roof flashing will not tell you that is good enough.

One place that you should never try to caulk yourself of have a contractor tell you that is sufficient is the  space above the window  between the flashing and the siding. This isn’t roof flashing but is just as important in keeping you home dry from water seeping into the walls. This flashing is referred to as drip cap, drip flashing, or head flashing. And provides a drain for water that would otherwise find its way behind the wall. The theory is pretty much if there is a way for water to get into something, it will find it and you will have major problems soon.

Do you need roof flashing

Roof flashing an unrecognized, unsung hero of rooftops! It works in conjunction with roofing felt and keeps water out from under the shingles. Flashing comes in a variety of metals, all thin strips, mostly galvanized steel. Some homes will upgrade to copper or stainless steel.

Imagine a world without roof flashing if you will.  One good rainy season and water will eventually begin leaking through the roof, then all havoc follows inside your home. The attic will be the first to rot from mildew and mold, then the ceilings below will be damaged, and all the roofing materials are damaged. This includes the roof decking and underlayment.

Is roof flashing required by code?

There may be a housing district in a city or town somewhere that doesn’t require roof flashing, but in most cities or town, even states, will require roof flashing.  If not the entity where your home is built, the insurance company that you have your homeowner’s insurance will require roof flashing.

Most homeowner’s insurance companies will have an adjustor come inspect the house before issued the policy. If the adjustor finds damaged or missing flashing, they will state this on their inspection and it will have to be repaired or replaced before your homeowner’s insurance is effective.

What is the best roof flashing?

We’ve chatted a bit about roof flashing and where it is needed, and why  We have only hinted at the types of metal though, so here we offer information on the three types of metal roof flashing:

• Aluminum: This is a  hearty and versatile material that is appropriate for various locations where flashing is needed. Such as the roof valleys, where the roof meets a wall, about the chimney,  and more. It is available in pre-shape, sheets, or rolls, and customized if needed. Aluminum roof flashing is moderately priced and around corners and conformed to angles.
• Copper: A higher-priced product that is an exceptionally durable roof flashing option. A resilient in all situations in the valleys, about the chimneys, at the wall intersections, and more. Copper can be fabricated to meet the needs for custom shapes and is available in an option of lead-coating, great for marine areas.
• Stainless Steel: An extremely resilient roof flashing material, ideal for harshest environments. Considered a premium product that is on the higher end of pricing, comes in a 18 gauge and 24 gauge.

What is the best material for flat roofs?

If you’re looking to install a flat roof, single ply roofing solutions like EPDM are among the best to choose. These membranes are easy to install, durable, and cost-effective roofing materials for commercial and industrial roofing. Materials like EPDM are sought after because they are puncture resistant and hold up in extreme weather conditions. This material tends to be highly flexible and will expand and contract with temperature changes without any problems. Similarly, membranes like TPO or PVC also hold up in severe weather, are tear- and puncture-resistant, and provide extraordinary UV protection. They will improve your energy efficiency and keep the building cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. TPO and PVC are also highly valued because they can be pretreated to be highly fire-resistant. 

Single ply roofing pros and cons

As with any roofing material, single ply membranes have their pros and cons.

Pros

• Hold up well in extreme weather changes
• No major issues when chemicals are around
• Different grades or levels of protection available
• Lightweight
• Excellent UV protection and reflective properties
• Ease of installation
• Cost-effective and low maintenance
• Fire resistant

Cons

• Lifespan relatively short
• Issues with seams could turn up, which in turn, could cause problems with leaks
• Vulnerable to water retention

How long does single ply roofing last?

Depending on the type of single ply roof you have installed, your roof’s lifespan will vary. But, most single-ply roofs last anywhere between 20 to 30 years. Although this is relatively short compared to other materials like built-up roofing, which can last up to 40 years, single ply roofing is often preferred because it is easier to install, holds up better in extreme weather, and has reflective properties that improve energy efficiency. 

Is EPDM a single ply membrane?

Yes, EPDM is a single-ply membrane. It’s composed of a synthetic rubber compound that’s very flexible—it effectively expands and contracts as temperature changes. It’s also particularly effective holding up to hail impacts and other severe weather. It’s one of the oldest of the single-ply roofing materials and has been in use since the 1960s. 

How do you apply single ply roofing?

Single ply roofs are normally installed in one of three ways:

• Ballasted: With this type of installation the roof isn’t anchored or adhered. Instead, it is placed over the decking and then held in place or ballasted with heavy gravel.
• Mechanically fastened: The membrane is placed loosely on the substrate and then mechanically attached using batten bars.
• Fully adhered: Basically, the roof is glued down to the substrate. It’s preferable to use an adhesive produced by the roof’s manufacturer.

Single ply roof on metal deck

Single-ply roofing is often preferred for buildings with metal—usually steel—roof decks. The membrane is normally mechanically attached to the deck. Single-ply membranes are also sometimes retrofitted over older metal roofs. This preserves the roof without having to fully replace it and protects it from rust, corrosion, and other damage.

Single ply roofing colors

For years most single ply roofing membranes were either black (EPDM) or white (TPO and PVC). Occasionally you’d find EPDM roofs that were gray or TPO roofs that were light brown, tan, or yellow. Some manufacturers are beginning to add color to single-ply membranes—TPO in particular—as builders want to match the roofing material to their building’s overall design. Some of the colors include shades of red and green, as well as brown and even black. There’s no need for concern regarding reflectivity. No matter what color TPO roofing comes in, it does not lose its ability to reflect sunlight and will keep your building cool and energy-efficient. Grey or black TPO is also useful in regions in which colder weather is a concern.

What causes roof damage?

There are several factors that can causes storm damage roof  and roof storm damage and repairs are needed, sometimes eventually, most times immediately: 

1. Roof Age

Roofs depreciates over time because of normal wear and tear. Any roof over 20 years old is prone to start showing those signs of aging with the cracking, rotting, loose, or missing asphalt granules, becoming week.  If left to its own demise, ultimately, storm damage roof s will start leaking when hailstorms dent the shingles and high winds rip off the loose and weak shingles. 

2. Owner Neglect

The roof isn’t something you think about every day like you do the laundry or taking out the trash, however, it need care and maintenance by you too. Routine inspections by the homeowner will help you identify possible issues and get them fixed before they become big problems.  Professional roof cleaning every year will help keep it clean from algae, mildew, and moss  that eat through shingles and make it more susceptible to storm damage rooftop. 

3. Careless Foot Traffic 

Occasionally, it is necessary to walk on a roof, but it needs to be done with safety of the person on the roof and safety of the roof. If you have contractors that need to walk on the roof, electrician, HVAC, plumber, etc., they should be fully equipped to do it safely and experienced in how to handle their equipment and tools so as not to drop anything heavy. A lot of foot traffic on a roof can weaken it and make it vulnerable for storm damage rooftop. 

4. The Weather 

We’ve already discussed how certain things can make a roof shingles vulnerable for harsh weather, leaving behind storm damage roofs. A roof has constant exposure to rain, snow, UV rays, and high winds. The gutter system and drains are vulnerable to weather too with debris, leave, and limbs clogging the gutters, causing rain to backup under the shingles and overflow, pooling up around the foundation. The UV rays that shine down on the roof dry out the shingles, making them weak, resulting in storm damage roof. 

Storm damage roofs are noticed inside the home too: 

• Water stains on ceiling and walls – Water damage signs in the home are easy to notice by water stains on the ceiling or walls, cracking or flaking drywall, or wet areas around the water pipe, sinks, or toilet. Another indication is noticed when you smell mildew, mold, wetness. 
• Dampness in the attic – Your attic should always be dry, so if you are noticing it is damp or you see any water accumulation, notice drips or water stains on the decking or insulation, you probably have a storm damage roof.  

What does hail damage look like on your roof?

Hailstorm damage roof cost can add up fast because it isn’t just the roof that is damaged. Anything that is left outside in a hailstorm can be damaged, from your vehicles to your patio furniture, landscaping, trees, and more. Often that small, unnoticeable storm damage roof that can be missed will cause the biggest problems later. 

• Loss Granules 
  • Asphalt roof granules are a sandpaper-like material and when that is coming off the roof, it is exposing your roof to the elements and accelerates your roof’s aging process. You’ll find this loss of granules in the gutter runs and downspouts after a hail or a heavy rainstorm.
• Cracked Shingles
  • Hail stones that hit shingles hard enough will break and crack them, and high winds will rip those shingles off, exposing your roof to the elements, creating storm damage rooftop. 
• Fiberglass Mat Exposed
  • Hail impacts shatters asphalt shingled surfaces and comes off the fiberglass mat, creating storm damage rooftop that is exposed to the weather. 
• Fiberglass Matt Fractured 
  • Fiberglass that has been fractured is harder to detect, usually only notice by a trained roofing professional or storm damage repair contractors. 

How big does hail need to be to cause damage?

Hailstones that are less than one inch can inflict storm damage roof that is small enough only and experienced roofing contractor, insurance adjustor, or storm damage contractor will see. Hailstones that one to two inches in size causes visible storm damage rooftops, and hailstones that are more than two inches in size will leave behind storm damage roofs that you can’t miss. 

When it comes to architectural style, both are winners.

Asphalt shingle roof installation has that traditional look as well as the ability to be manufactured to look like slate, tile, or wood shakes. They can come with scalloped edges to blend with Victorian architecture, or for a Mediterranean style home, they can come in a terra cotta appearance. The wide range in colors and finishes can give a homeowner many choices.  

In the past, metal roofs were only available in the corrugated tin panels that were common on barns and sheds. This standing-seam metal roof installation wasn’t appealing for a residential appearance. Today, meal roof installation comes in aluminum, copper, galvanized, tin, and zinc. Metal roof installation is found on refined structures today, from California contemporaries to the Victorians on the East Coast, and in a wide range of colors and finishes. 

When lifespan is everything, metal roof installation wins.

Metal roof installation has a better history of durability against Mother Nature’s havoc, with a warranty between thirty to fifty years and lifespan as long as seventy years.  However, a metal roof installation is a target for hailstorms and falling branches, resulting in damage. 

Asphalt shingles have a shorter lifespan due typically to algae and fungus from water pooling water and chronic problem with damp conditions. Asphalt shingles are prone to ice dams that create cracks, and with temperature spikes, the life of an asphalt shingle roof is reduced. The warranties run between fifteen and thirty years, and depending on the climate and environment, they typically need replacing within that time frame.  

When upfront cost is everything, asphalt shingles win.

A metal roof will give you a longer lifespan, but it will cost you upfront. A metal roof installation can cost up to $900 per 100sf versus the cost of asphalt shingled roof cost $200 per 100sf.  

The cost of metal roof installation is recouped sooner with homeowner insurance discount, and replacement will likely last years into the future. A metal roof installation may earn tax credits because of the energy efficiency they offer. 

When Eco-Friendly is the main concern, metal roofing wins. 

Most metal roof installation jobs used recycled metal, and when they are replaced, the metal is recycled again. Asphalt roofing has to be replaced more frequently, and with approximately 20 billion pounds of old product deposited in the landfills annually, they aren’t eco-friendly. 

When east of installation is the goal, asphalt shingles win. 

Professional roofing contractors have the knowledge and specialized tools to install any roofing material.  Asphalt shingles take two days maximum for installation, and metal roof installation takes a different set of skills that know how to metal roof installation and specialized tools and take twice as long as asphalt shingle roofing installation. 

Is underlayment necessary for metal roof?

Yes, underlayment is needed with a metal roof installation unless you’re installing it over an asphalt shingled roof. The asphalt shingles will act like an underlayment, so installing another isn’t necessary. 

Can you put a metal roof over shingles?

You can, but it isn’t recommended. Asphalt shingled roof will contract and expand with the temperature, over time, that can damage the backside of the metal roofing. Roofing contractors will always recommend that the old asphalt shingles be torn off before the new metal roof installation. 

Is a metal roof worth it?

If you are planning to live in your home for many years, then yes, a metal roof installation is worth the expense. Because it is more expensive than an asphalt roof, if your plans are short term for the house, then going with the asphalt shingle is the better option. Ready to get started? Call 877-406-7663 today for your roofing installation!

If you want to stop your roof from fading, improve energy efficiency, and protect your roof from leaks, you may want to consider metal roof restoration in New Orleans, LA. ECO Commercial Roofing offers a wide range of restoration solutions for metal and other commercial roofs. You can learn more by calling 877-406-7663.

How often do metal roofs need to be replaced?

Besides requiring little maintenance, one of the biggest appeals of metal roofing is the fact it lasts longer than most other commercial roofing systems like flat roofs. You can expect a metal roof to last 40 to 60 years or longer, although as it ages it will be subject to problems like fading and leaks as well as rusting. As these problems increase, you’ll have to determine whether you want to replace your metal roof or choose an option like metal roof restoration. Many building managers choose the restoration option because it is cost-effective and will extend your roof’s life for as much as a decade or more. 

How can I make my metal roof look new?

As metal roofs sit in the sun day after day and endure every sort of weather condition from snow and ice to hail and high winds, they get worn and can fade or rust. Leaks can develop, and if hail has struck, there may be dents all over it. You may have to make repairs or replace seriously damaged panels, and these repairs can improve your roof’s appearance. You can also repaint your roof, but this only means the roof will fade again after a few years. One solution you can choose is metal roof restoration. This is a much more cost-effective option than replacing your roof, as the restoration just requires you to add a coating over the roof. This coating will protect your roof from fading and leaks, cool it better, and make it look like new. 

How to apply metal roof coating

Metal roof restoration is actually an easy process that is unlikely to disrupt your business operations while it’s being applied. At the very most a restoration can take about three days. The process goes like this:

• The roof is cleaned and cleared of debris. This can be done with a push broom, blower, or even a power washer on low pressure.
• Repairs are made. Leaks and other damage needs to be repaired before the coating is applied.
• The coating is then applied. Most coatings are either sprayed or rolled on. Preferably the coatings should be applied at temperatures 65 degrees or above on a clear day.

Is it OK to pressure wash a metal roof?

While metal roofs are low maintenance, one maintenance service that should be performed regularly is keeping the roof clean and free of debris. When most roofs are cleaned, you can use a power washer to clean them. You can also use a power washer on a metal roof but it needs to be done on low pressure. A hot water pressure washer can also be used. Use a 40-degree tip when washing. 

In terms of cleaning your roof, you may be wondering “What is the best cleaner for metal roofs?” For the most part, you don’t often need any special cleaner for a metal roof. Water and detergent usually work just fine. Whenever you are preparing for a metal roof restoration, cleaning the roof is always the first step.

Metal roof restoration tips

While metal roof restoration is a relatively simple process, some preparation needs to be undertaken that will help the process go smoothly. 

Here are some things to do to make the process go as smoothly as possible.

• Inspect the roof for rust and remove it using a wire brush, sand blasting, or acid etching.
• Clean the roof. You can normally safely power wash the roof on low pressure.
• Make sure all the fasteners are tightened, replacing any that are missing, and the substrate is secure.
• Seal any exposed fastener head as well as seams that wider than a one-eighth inch.
• Before applying the coating, make one last effort at cleaning the roof using a brush or blower.

Metal roof elastomeric coating

Elastomeric coatings are the most commonly used for metal roof restoration. Aluminum coatings are also used although the elastomeric coatings tend to have a better reflectivity rating, which is important if energy efficiency and cooling your building are concerns. These coatings also tend to be more aesthetically appealing than aluminum.

Do I need gutters with a metal roof?

Metal roofing won’t need to have gutters as they are resistant to damages gutters would try to prevent. Yet if you need proper drainage paths they may be a good idea. Speak to your roofer today about the specifications of design your home has to meet to see if gutters would or wouldn’t be right for you.

Do you need vents on a metal roof?

Metal roofing doesn’t negate or cause a need for ventilation. Ventilation methods should be meeting code requirements no matter the type of roofing material present and this includes metal roofing.

Do metal roofs make house hotter?

Metal roofing like any roofing material will absorb heat yet with a reflective roof coating you can cool your roof as it will reflect heat away from the building. Roof coatings are made to match with different types of roofs so depending on the metal materials that you have on your roof there will be a corresponding roof coating that will work well with it. These coatings can additionally be reapplied every 10-15 years which will aid in roof longevity as well as maintaining optimal metal roofing conditions.

Is it recommended to insulate under metal roof?

Insulating under metal roofing is recommended in order to have better temperature control maintenance. The best material is considered to be foam batting which can be used either on the inside or outside of sheathing. This differs from other insulation as this comes in panels instead of paper covered fiberglass. It should be used over spray or rolled up insulation as it lays flat and can be easily installed underneath metal roofing.

How do you stop condensation on a metal roof?

Condensation can be fixed by managing the insulation under metal roofing in order to have panel temperatures blocked from reaching the dew point. The type of insulation that’s typically used is vinyl-backed fiberglass which prevents humid air from coming into contact with cooler metal roofs which may be at or below the dew point.

How many years does a metal roof last?

Metal roofing can last 50 plus years with an average life span of 40-70 years depending on the material. If well cared for you can enjoy your metal roof through your lifetime and onto the next generation.

Does a metal roof increase home value?

Metal roofing of the contemporary variety can improve a home’s resale value by 1%-6% with an average of 85.9% of recouped costs.

Get in Touch With Your Local Roofers About Metal Roofing

Get in touch with your local roofing company if you’re interested in metal roofing. They will best be able to confer with you about your options and determine the best route of action to take based on your roof’s specifications. If you already have an existing roof a roof inspection will allow for more detailed plans in case repairs or changes need to be made before a new installation or replacements can begin. Metal roofing will a great option that can match your preferences of style and last for years to come. The protection that you get with metal roofing makes it a popular choice for residential and commercial businesses alike. Speak to an expert roofer about metal roofing today and get started on your next roofing project. 

If you’re interested in metal roofing in New Orleans, LA call 877-406-7663 with ECO Commercial Roofing!

Are slate roofs good?

A slate roof that is properly installed and maintained can last a century or even longer. It can withstand the human and natural elements better than other roofing materials because it is fireproof, storm-resistant. When it comes to a slate roof with moss, you won’t find any because they are impermeable to water and is resistant to algae and moss that are damaging to an asphalt shingle roof.

Because slate roof material comes from a natural stone that has composite material blended into it, they are environmentally friendly. The only roofing material that comes close in environmentally friendly is cedar shake tile.

A home gains a different appearance with a slate roof installed. It gives a home an elegant look, and when it comes to selling your home later, it will grab a buyer’s attention.

Do slate roofs need ventilation?

Slate roofs are made of rock that has been quarried from deep holes in the ground, through pits, shafts, and tunnels. The material is then hand-worked into a manageable size before being split into roofing shingles with chisels and hammers. A slate roof is waterproof and watertight, but it is not airtight. Ventilation in the attic willprevent condensation under the roof sheathing that is caused by warm inside air leaking into space.

Can you walk on a slate roof?   

You could, but if you’re not experienced at walking on roofs at all, it is recommended to leave inspections and repairs to those who are. There is a balance of delicacy and stability when it comes to walking on a slate roof. Even if one that is a century old and is doing the job of protecting a home, it can be damaged easily if caution is not used.  And experienced slate roof installer will erect scaffolding or use prop hook ladders to do an inspection or make repairs.  

What is the life expectancy of a slate roof?

The longevity of a slate roof is essential to a home’s value. Roofing of any kind is expensive, and the slate is one of the more costly types. It is also one that doesn’t require replacement for over 100 years; some have been around for 200 years or longer.

A slate roof can be a beautiful addition to any home, but for a home that hasn’t had a slate roof before, it is recommended to get an engineer check, making sure the structure can handle the weight. Additionally, not every roofing contractor is experienced with a slate roof. Always ask for references so that you can drive by and check out the results. Call 877-406-7663 today for slate roofing installation for your home in New Orleans, LA.

Along with longevity, you can expect a foam to protect the roof from leaks and improve your building’s overall energy efficiency. If you are interested in commercial foam roofing in New Orleans, LA, the trusted roofers to count on are those at ECO Commercial Roofing. You can find out more or schedule services by calling 877-406-7663.

Is spray foam roofing good?

Foam roofing has plenty of benefits. Along with being long-lasting and versatile, these lightweight roofs are known for the added protection they provide to your roofing system and building. Their seamless design, for instance, is airtight and protects the roof from leaks, and other problems common to flat roofs like ponding. These roofs also don’t attract mold and fungi. They also improve energy efficiency. Airight, these roofs serve as great insulation. They have an R-value of between 6.2 and 6.5, and have high thermal resistance. When applying foam roofing for commercial building roofing, you can expect to save as much as 30 to 50 on heating and cooling costs. All these benefits make foam roofing a leading choice as a commercial roofing solution.

How to apply foam roofing

Applying foam roofing is a relatively simple process. With the right skills and materials you can apply foam roofing yourself, though it’s always best to rely on professionals to ensure the application goes smoothly.

The steps in application include:

• Preparing the roof by clearing the roof of debris and cleaning it.
• Caulking will need to be applied as an adhesive, and is used to seal gaps or cracks or small holes.
• Apply the foam.
• Apply a protective coating like acrylic over the foam. 

How thick is foam roofing

When foam roofing is sprayed on, it starts out as a liquid, but it then expands and solidifies. After it expands, the layer is between 1- and 1 ½-inches thick. To preserve the foam, a protective layer of roof coating like acrylic or silicone is added, but minimally increases the thickness. The coating is only about 20 to 30 mils in thickness, and a mil is just one thousandth of an inch. The coating is necessary to protect the foam from ultraviolet light.

Can spray foam stop leaks?

Of the many advantages spray foam has, it’s seamless design allows it to stop leaks. Although spray foam starts off as a liquid, it quickly expands and solidifies. When it expands and solidifies, it covers the roof’s substrate, and gets into areas other types of materials can’t get into. It fills gaps and seals over pinhole leaks. While larger holes and other repairs need to be made before the foam is applied, once the foam roofing is applied, it will help prevent other leaks from occurring. 

How do you maintain a foam roof?

Another appeal of foam roofing is that it requires very little maintenance. Primarily, it will need to be swept or sprayed clean of debris, and a recoating after about five years will need to be made. The first recoating is a major way to preserve the roof. Keeping foot traffic to a minimum is a good idea. If there is heavy foot traffic, small holes may open in the foam. These holes can be repaired with caulking. If there are larger holes a recoat will need to be applied. If you don’t recoat the roof, minimize foot traffic, or keep the roof clean and clear of debris, the roof will begin to slowly deteriorate. You will begin to see small pits form. Any pitting like this will prevent you from recoating the roof. Any recoating you do should be made in moderate temperatures. Temperatures shouldn’t be below 65 degrees or the foam will not set properly. If it’s too hot, the coating will set too fast.

How much does it cost to replace a foam roof?

Foam roofing costs will vary depending on the slope, pitch and size of the roof. On average the spray foam will cost anywhere between about $6,000 to $7,200. The foam costs between $2.50 to $3 per square foot.

What are green roofs used for?

The first thing that needs to be understood is that when it comes to green roof vs cool roof are two different types of roofing with the same goal. Cool roofs reflect the sun’s UV rays and heat back to the atmosphere. A green roof absorbs the heat from the sunlight and stops it from heating the building.

A green roof may be referred to as an eco-roof or a vegetated roof. With a waterproof membrane in place, a green roof is used as a medium for growing fruits, plants, and vegetables in place of having a basic flat roof.

There are many environmental benefits for commercial and public structures to have a green roof:

• Water quality improves because of reduced runoff from stormwater
• Water quality improves because there are fewer overflows and runoff
• Biodiversity is promoted and increases habitat
• Structure temperature is lowered
• Less energy consumed
• Provides a sound absorption on the top floor
•  It improves air quality

Over the years, the cost to install a green roof has become more economically possible, and as the benefits of lower energy costs have been noticed, it is something that more building owners are considering when their current roofing needs replacing.

 Looking at a 50-year average, building owners can expect a green roof to see an ROI in just over 6 years with the money they’re saving in energy costs. The life expectancy of a green roof is estimated at 40 years, whereas a traditional roof over 17 years.

Can you put a green roof on an existing building?

Many green roof projects are installed on existing buildings. You would need an engineering inspection to make sure the structure can withstand the additional weight of a green roof. Next, you must check with city zoning laws.

Once all of that has been answered, you must have waterproofing installed and a root barrier. If this is something that you’re interested in, it is worth checking into with a qualified roofing contractor. Sustainability is everyone’s responsibility, and a green roof is a step in that direction.

How do you install a green roof?

To install a green roof on a smooth flat surface, you’ll need a multi-layered waterproof barrier for protection between the roof decking and soil. The roof decking can be made of plywood. The multiple layers keep roots from getting to the decking and the barrier keeps water from reaching the decking.

Here is how to get your green roof going:  

1. Mount a rubber or plastic waterproof membrane over the decking
2. Next, position a six-millimeter plastic sheet over that waterproof membrane as a barrier for the roots
3. Add a thin sheet of insulation (three-quarter-inch foam) that is resistant to damp soil
4. Place a drainage mat with capillary spaces over that with the felt facing up
5. With mech gutter guards and wood, build a frame around the sides for drainage
6. Add soil then place your plants
7. Water the plants for the soil to settle

You’ll need to leave a space for contactor access, such as HVAC and plumbing vents, make sure to leave room around those features.

How long does a green roof last?

By protecting the roof membrane, tending to the plants with feeding, watering, weeding a green roof can last up to 50 years. It can extend the life of the original roof 2 to 3 times longer.

What is a roof restoration?

Roof restorations will involve the use of highly engineered roof coatings to restore existing roofs into like-new conditions. A commercial flat roof restoration will typically involve the use of commercial roof coatings that will match with the type of roof involved. Such examples can involve acrylic roof coatings for PVC roofs, polyurethane coatings for EPDM roofs, silicone roof coatings for modified bitumen roofs to name a few.

How much is roof restoration?

The cost of a roof restoration job will depend on the type of roofing system. On average you can expect it to range between $6-$9 per square foot as they require less labor and materials when compared to repairs or replacements which range $18-$22 per square foot.

How long does a roof restoration last?

A commercial roof restoration can last 15-20 years and this range of time can be affected by UV sunlight conditions, mold or mildew growth and color choice of the coating.

What is the best roof coating?

There are many types of roof coatings out there with coatings that will match with the formula of the roof substrate. However, the type of roof coating that is most commonly used is an acrylic roof coating. This roof coating can come in many colors yet white is mostly used due to its reflective abilities. Acrylic roofing is a good option due to its long durability and low costs.

Is a leaking roof covered by insurance?

A leaking roof is indeed covered by insurance if it was caused by inclement weather and other unexpected circumstances. However, in general, insurance won’t cover damages of wear and tear resulting from lack of maintenance.

How do you find a leak in a flat roof?

A roof leak can have water stray from its original source so it can potentially lie anywhere on the roof. When you are looking for a leak you may be able to use several methods for locating the entrance of the leak. One simple search can involve walking around the roof and looking for the reflective surface of any exposed metal flashing. Step flashing is usually an inner layer of the roof that covers the wooden sheathing of a roof. There are also outer layers of flashing that can serve as a protective layer. Both layers are needed to be able to expand and contract with the roof yet if that’s not happening water can seep through a roof’s coating. Another area to check around will involve your roof’s collars around venting pipes, this area should have a flange that protects the openings and if there are signs of cracking or decay a leak could be present. With low spots of roofs if there are dry concentric circles left behind from puddles of water. Check the center of these areas to make sure that leaks aren’t present. It may be best to have a professional roof inspection conducted as expert eyes will be able to best track problem areas of your roof.

Contact A Professional Roofer For Assistance

If you’re looking to improve your commercial roof system without material tear-offs consider the implementation of commercial roof restoration. These roofing solutions will extend the life of your roofing system so it’ll be able to reach and even surpass it’s expected roof life. If you require services with other areas of your commercial roof like with needing commercial HVAC be sure to get in contact with the relevant avenues for assistance. As such, a roof restoration coating will be a great way to up the durability of your roof and have it restored as good as new. If you have any questions or would like a roof inspection before you get started with a commercial roof restoration get in touch with a professional roofing company today.

If you require assistance with commercial roof restoration in New Orleans, LA call 877-406-7663 with ECO Commercial Roofing!