Spring Roof Maintenance Tips

Spring Roof Maintenance Tips. Is your roof ready for Spring?

As the cold weather begins to make way for summer in many parts of the country, now is the time to clean up for spring. Winter weather can be a shingle’s enemy (especially in areas Texas that had to deal with so many storms), so it’s important for contractors to reach out to homeowners to help them with their roof’s spring-cleaning and inspection. Not only will this make a home look better, it can also extend the life of the roof. Here are some tips to share with your customers on what to look for during spring cleaning. 

Tree limbs. Make sure tree limbs don’t touch a roof.  If they do, they can easily scrape over the shingles and loosen the protective granules. This will severely reduce the life of a roof. Trim trees close to the house to avoid any limbs touching the roof surface.

Leaves and pine needles. A little leaf or a few pine needles are fine, but if they collect and are deep enough to hold moisture, they need to be taken off the roof.  Anything that traps moisture will cause mildew to form, block gutters, or cause extra weight on the roof. A rake or air blower can be used to clear the roof, but take care not to damage the shingles.

Moss. Cutting back trees and removing leaves will reduce moss growth, as it will allow sunlight to dry up the moisture that moss thrives on. While there are chemicals available on the market to get rid of moss, the runoff can cause damage to plants. Another solution is to nail zinc or copper strips to the ridgeline; as rain washes across, it creates an environment where moss cannot grow.

Mold. Discolored streaks on a roof indicate there is mold, algae, or fungus, which can eat away at the roofing material and, ultimately, cause leaks. A treatment of chlorine bleach or copper sulfate solution applied with a garden sprayer can kill the mold. GAF manufactures algae-resistant shingles that have a specially formulated granule that inhibits algae growth, in addition to shingles with StainGuard®Protection. Finally, do not power wash shingles! It can dislodge granules and cause premature shingle failure.

Gutter damage. Heavy snow from the winter season can result in gutter damage while leftover fall leaves and debris can lead to clogged gutters. Before the springtime rain, check to make sure water can flow easily through the gutters and fix any loose nails that are preventing the gutters from sitting tightly along the roof line.

Missing shingles, chimney, and flashing. A complete inspection by a contractor can uncover issues with missing shingles, chimney damage, or flashing around chimneys, vents, or other bends in the roof.

Dealing with these potential issues in a timely manner will allow your roof to stand strong through the next season of weather challenges—and for many years to come.

Has your roof received hail damage? Noticed missing shingles or gutter issues? Call 817-507-8152 to speak with one of our roofing experts and schedule a free inspection!

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The Eagle Roofing Company proudly serves the Dallas/Fort Worth Texas and surrounding area. We offer a variety of roofing & construction services from residential to commercial projects. We’re a locally owned and operated company. In most cases you will deal with the owner of the company not just a sales representative, like most roofing companies.

The Eagle Roofing would love to assist you with your projects. They’re committed to serving customers with prompt, valuable, and superior products and service; as well as giving their clients the peace of mind that the installation of their new roof has been installed to the highest standard with a paramount attention to detail.

We proudly serve the Dallas/Fort Worth including but not limited to Colleyville, Southlake, Keller, Bedford, Hurst, Euless, North Richland Hills, Haltom City, Watauga, Roanoke, Trophy Club, Westlake, Denton, Lewisville, Arlington, Grand Prairie, Grapevine, Irving and surrounding areas. Please feel free to contact us at 817-507-8152 to assist with your roofing and construction needs.

Choosing a Roof Color

Roof Color Selection and What to Consider

Getting a new roof is so exciting! It’s a chance to completely revamp the look of your home. But it’s also a scary decision because you will live with your choice for a long time. Where do you start?  Here are seven things to consider before making that final decision.

  1. The climate you in which you live. The color of your shingles can affect the temperature of your attic by 20 to 40 degrees! This can make a big difference in the heating or cooling cost of your home. Light shingles deflect sunlight and help keep temperatures down in hotter climates, while dark shingles absorb heat and help homes stay warm in colder climates. Dark shingles also help snow and ice on your roof melt faster.
  1. Shingle color coordination with colors found elsewhere in the bricks, wooden siding, stone, stucco or trim on your home. For example, a dark gray or black roof will look good with a gray or blue house, while a brown, cream or tan colored house will match better with brown shingles or a mix of cream and brown. Green, red, yellow, or other colors have more flexibility and can be accented by brown, gray, or black.
  1. Your architectural style and colors of your home should be kept in mind. Dark colors make a home look smaller and light colors make a home look larger.
  1. Whether or not to “make a statement” and pick an unusual color combination with your home or if you want to be more traditional.
  1. Neighborhood considerations such as homeowner’s association and subdivision rules and covenants. It’s also nice if your roof doesn’t exactly match or clash with your nearby neighbor’s roof.
  1. The availability of colors in your area is a consideration because the color/brand you want may not be available in your area. For example, The Roofing Wizard by GAF will tell you what GAF color shingles are available near you.

Interested in seeing a variety of roofing shingle colors? Give the Eagle Roofing Company a call today! Call 817-507-8152 to speak with one of our roofing experts!

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The Eagle Roofing Company proudly serves the Dallas/Fort Worth Texas and surrounding area. We offer a variety of roofing & construction services from residential to commercial projects. We’re a locally owned and operated company. In most cases you will deal with the owner of the company not just a sales representative, like most roofing companies.

The Eagle Roofing would love to assist you with your projects. They’re committed to serving customers with prompt, valuable, and superior products and service; as well as giving their clients the peace of mind that the installation of their new roof has been installed to the highest standard with a paramount attention to detail.

We proudly serve the Dallas/Fort Worth including but not limited to Colleyville, Southlake, Keller, Bedford, Hurst, Euless, North Richland Hills, Haltom City, Watauga, Roanoke, Trophy Club, Westlake, Denton, Lewisville, Arlington, Grand Prairie, Grapevine, Irving and surrounding areas. Please feel free to contact us at 817-507-8152 to assist with your roofing and construction needs.

Roofing Shingle Options For Homeowners

Roofing Shingle Options For Homeowners

Originally published on Home Advisor One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make when it comes to re-roofing their homes is neglecting to look into the wide range of roof shingles available to them for installation. Asphalt roofing shingles are, of course, the most popular and cost effective. If you’re working on a budget, there really isn’t any reason to look further. But if you’ve got the means, or just feel like nailing something to your roof trusses that turns a few more heads, then there’s a number of quality products out there to choose from.

Metal Shingles

Aluminum, copper, and tin shingles are the most popular choices when it comes to metal roof shingles. Copper is the highest price, mostly due to its appearance. It looks great when installed, and it is one of the few materials whose looks actually improve over time. Other than that, copper shares many traits with its tin and aluminum counterparts. All are very lightweight, meaning they won’t stress your roof trusses, and very well-suited for cold climates (since metal is slick and heats up quickly, making them perfect for shedding heavy snowfalls). As for aluminum and tin, it’s probably best to choose aluminum when it comes down to it. It’s lighter weight, corrosion resistant, and aluminum shingles are now manufactured to mimic tin, making this choice a no-brainer.

Ceramic Roofing Shingles

Ceramic roofing tiles are another product that many homeowners are drawn to. Ceramic tiles come in a variety of options, including flat, Roman, Mission, and pantile (or s-shaped) tiles. Whether you’re looking for the red clay look of southwestern Mexican tile roofs or a ceramic imitation of slate or wood roofing shingles, ceramic offers more design opportunities than most homeowners realize. The only downside to these shingles is that they can be damaged by severe weather easier than some of the other roofing solutions on the market, though improvements in technology have worked to improve their quality in this arena.

Wood

Red cedar shingles dominate the wood roofing shingle market because of their natural ability to repel water and their resistance to rot and other weather-related damage. They are also a hard roofing to beat when it comes to looks, but they will cost you more in maintenance over the years. A well-maintained roof that is treated every 5 years or so will last for twenty or thirty years before needing to be replaced. One that is neglected, however, will last you a fraction of that if you’re lucky.

Concrete/Composite Roof Shingles

Last but not least, concrete roofing shingles are fast becoming both an industry and homeowner favorite. For starters, they can be made to almost perfectly mimic just about any other material, including all types of ceramic and wood shingles. Add to that the fact that once they are installed they are virtually maintenance free, and it’s easy to see why concrete shingles are fast growing in popularity. They will cost you more up front, and their weight can stress the roof trusses on some homes, but as long as your home is structurally sound the extra money you spend is well worth it. Concrete roof shingles are generally guaranteed for the life of the shingle, meaning this is most likely the last roof you’ll ever have to buy. __________________________________________________________ The Eagle Roofing Company proudly serves the Dallas/Fort Worth Texas and surrounding area. We offer a variety of roofing & construction services from residential to commercial projects. We’re a locally owned and operated company. In most cases you will deal with the owner of the company not just a sales representative, like most roofing companies. The Eagle Roofing would love to assist you with your projects. They’re committed to serving customers with prompt, valuable, and superior products and service; as well as giving their clients the peace of mind that the installation of their new roof has been installed to the highest standard with a paramount attention to detail. We proudly serve the Dallas/Fort Worth including but not limited to Colleyville, Southlake, Keller, Bedford, Hurst, Euless, North Richland Hills, Haltom City, Watauga, Roanoke, Trophy Club, Westlake, Denton, Lewisville, Arlington, Grand Prairie, Grapevine, Irving and surrounding areas. Please feel free to contact us at 817-507-8152 to assist with your roofing and construction needs.

Severe Weather Hits Dallas/Fort Worth Causing Damaging Winds For Homeowners

Severe Weather Hits DFW Texas Area Causing Damage For Homeowners

Severe Weather Hits Dallas/Fort Worth causing damaging winds for many homeowners suffering from roof leaks, and roof repair needed after the storm.

Strong winds were blowing across Dallas-Fort Worth late Thursday evening, and could continue overnight.

Some light rain in Dallas-Fort Worth was causing strong upper level winds across the area. Gusts of up to 60 mph were recorded in Denton, Wise and Tarrant counties, meteorologist Jason Godwin with the National Weather Service said.

Though the winds could weaken, gusts of more than 30 mph could still occur overnight, he said.

Severe weather with the potential to dump 1 to 2 inches of rain and golf ball-size hail was forecast for North Texas on Thursday evening and included a low possibility of tornadoes. But the severe threat to the area appeared to weaken late Thursday, Godwin said.

Storms were moving northeast from Breckenridge and Eastland at about 30 to 40 mph, and were expected to make their way into Palo Pinto County by midnight.

Article originally published here

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The Eagle Roofing Company proudly serves the Dallas/Fort Worth Texas and surrounding area. We offer a variety of roofing & construction services from residential to commercial projects. We’re a locally owned and operated company. In most cases you will deal with the owner of the company not just a sales representative, like most roofing companies.

The Eagle Roofing would love to assist you with your projects. They’re committed to serving customers with prompt, valuable, and superior products and service; as well as giving their clients the peace of mind that the installation of their new roof has been installed to the highest standard with a paramount attention to detail.

We proudly serve the Dallas/Fort Worth including but not limited to Colleyville, Southlake, Keller, Bedford, Hurst, Euless, North Richland Hills, Haltom City, Watauga, Roanoke, Trophy Club, Westlake, Denton, Lewisville, Arlington, Grand Prairie, Grapevine, Irving and surrounding areas. Please feel free to give us a call today at 817-507-8152 to assist with your roofing and construction needs.

Is Your Roof Ready For Summer?

Summer is in full gear and the sun is hotter than ever. The blazing sun can damage more than you can imagine; your roof is important and keeping it in the best shape possible during the summer months can help you avoid having to pay a lot of money for repairs in the future. Here are some helpful tips that you can do yourself in order to keep your roof in the best condition:

  • Make sure to check and clean all gutters and downspouts so that water can flow through without blockage.
  • If you have a skylight, don’t forget to check for clutter behind it.
  • Check your roof for cracking shingles, or shingles that are missing.
  • Checks your fans to make sure they are working properly.
  • While on your roof, make sure to take pictures of before and after to make sure there aren’t any major changes since your last check.
  • Mold damage happens fast. Make sure that nothing is moldy or damaged from mold, and if there is mold damage, call your roofing company right away to make quick repairs.
  • Block all the places where small creatures can invade.
  • Check sealants to make sure they are still in good shape.
  • Make sure your eaves and overhangs don’t have stains from water.
  • If you find that your roof has major damage, contact your Roofing Company right away.

Inspecting your roof can be dangerous, this is why knowing where and how to step on your roof is of the highest importance. If you are not aware of how and where to step, your roof can be damaged and you could have an accident. If you don’t feel confident climbing to the top of your roof, contact The Eagle Roofing Company to help you inspect your roof. Routine maintenance are very important. Check your roof every season to save you money and time.

Common Commercial Roofing Issues

Problems on a roof can happen to any building, but most of the issues are largely preventable through planning. Several factors will influence a roof’s service life: design quality installation, products, maintenance, roof use, abuse, and weather. The 10 roof problems listed below are common occurrences, but through quality work and planning, most can be easily dealt with before a major, expensive problem occurs.

Problem #1: Roof leaks. With any type of roof, if it is leaking then you have a problem.

Solution: A proactive preventative maintenance program can eliminate or reduce building interior water intrusion.

Problem #2: Blow-offs, tenting, or billowing. This occurs if the roof is not adhered properly to the substrate. Single-ply roofs are at risk for blow-off and billowing.

Solution: Ask your roofing contractor to provide the proper specification or building code for your area when installing a new roof.

Problem #3: Poor installation or workmanship. A faulty installation increases the likelihood of problems and reduces a roof system’s life expectancy. Workmanship tends to be one of the more common problems or reasons for problems down the road.

Solution: Ask your contractor for a checklist specific to the roof system that should be used for information-gathering (data-collecting) and reporting. Also ask about moisture surveys. Roofs with insulation should be surveyed prior to being overlayed via non-destructive methods. Have your contractor provide a written inspection report, complete with digital photos. Clear details on any structural changes or modifications to the roof surface should also be provided to you.

Problem #4: Lack of maintenance. There are many reasons not to neglect a roof, including financial and safety, but it’s important to have routine inspections done. Ponding water, a base flashing that is slipping, or pitch pockets that haven’t been filled are items that can be easily spotted and fixed.

Solution: To maximize roof service life, a proactive maintenance program should begin in year #1. If you wait too long to initiate the program, you will reduce the potential benefits.

Problem #5: Ponding water.The National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) has classified “undesirable” ponding water as standing for more than 48 hours, although ponding can pose a threat in even shorter time spans. A matter of “deep” concern in the roofing industry is the fact that a 1” deep pond weighs 5.2 lbs./square foot. The additional weight of the load may pose a threat to the structural integrity of the building, with a very real possibility of roof collapse in extreme cases.

Solution: Look into ways to address proper drainage on the roof by adding roof drains or using tapered roof insulation. Also, check the flashings, as they can be a source of leaks.

Problem #6: Punctures and the addition of penetrations. For those with single-ply roof systems, damage from foot traffic can be problematic.

Solution: Limit traffic and conduct cursory inspections after tradespeople have been on the roof.

Problem #7: Safety. Fires, odors, slips, and falls are common issues that occur on the roof.

Solution: Make sure you have all the proper personal protection equipment, such as safety glasses, approved footwear, and hard hats. You should also have a copy of all the MSDS information for all the products being installed on the roof.

Problem #8: Improper repairs. Using materials that are not intended for application on specific roof types can result in permanent damage.

Solution: Ask your roofing contractor if they are certified from the manufacturer to install and repair your roof.

Problem #9: Shrinkage. Single-ply roof types are unique. If you walk out onto an EPDM roof, one of the first things you’re going to look for is evidence of shrinkage. The two items most commonly seen are flashings pulling away from the wall or curb and crazing and cracking of uncured membrane, which is commonly used at perimeter and penetration flashings.

Solution: Make sure you’re conducting visual inspections. Some experts recommend a minimum of two per year (late fall and early spring)…certainly at least annually.

Problem #10: Blistering, ridging, splitting, and surface erosion. These issues are commonly found with BUR roof systems, but can also happen in some single-ply systems.

Solution: Do your homework and make sure you select a certified and licensed roofing contractor before selecting or installing your new roof.

Helpful Tips for Selecting a Roofing Contractor

Helpful Tips for Selecting a Roofing Contractor

Selecting a properly certified and high quality roofing contractor is important and often a difficult task for consumers who are unfamiliar with the roofing industry. It is important to select certified roofers who will be in business to honor their warranty in the future. There are a large number of roofing contractors who are not certified and have both low quality installations and poor workmanship. The average start-up business is usually closed within three years, and may be out of business when potential roofing problem could arise.

The following are tips and important questions that can help you select a professional roofing contractor…

How long has the company been in business?
An established company will most likely be around in the future should any problems arise.

Does the contractor have a permanent business office address, phone, and email?
An established contractor should be able to provide a business address, phone, and email. A permanent business address is a sign of a stable company.

Does the company supply a written contract and estimate (and do they require a deposit)?
All job specifications and prices should be supplied in writing. Established companies with strong financial stability usually do not require a deposit. Deposits are common, be wary of any contractor requesting more than 1/3 of the cost of the project.

Check to see if the company is a member of the Better Business Bureau and the local Chamber of Commerce.
Research all potential contractors on the Better Business Bureau and your local Chamber of Commerce. Look for the overall business rating and keep in mind the general size of the company when checking for complaints.

Does the company have liability insurance?
This is important as an established company should have liability insurance.

Check to see if the contractor is part of local and national industry associations.
A strong established contractor should be a member of trade associations.

Look for a contractor who is a certified installer of the products they offer.
Certified contractors can offer stronger warranties on the products they install and follow stricter installation guidelines.

Look for a contractor who offers emergency service.
A contractor who offers emergency service will be able to address a serious problem quickly, even after regular business hours.

Ask the contractor for references of previous customers.
An established company should have a long list of satisfied customers who are willing to be contacted.

Is communication an easy task with the company?
Communication should be easily accessible between the customer and the company.