Materials Commonly Used in Roofing – Slate, Ceramic Tile and Flat Roofs

If you are looking to get a chance to change up your roof, designing a new home, or looking to get repairs after a storm, it is important to know the difference between the main types of roofs, and the basics behind making each choice. When it comes to different styles of roofs, and a lot of options to choose from, it is important to know the benefits and drawbacks of each style so you can make an informed decision.

Slate Shingles

One of the more common styles of roofs are slate shingles. Although comparatively similar to asphalt shingles, they differ in how they are laid out (laid flat for slate and stacked for asphalt commonly). Their effectiveness has led to their long history of use, stemming from the fact that well maintained roofs with slate shingles can last decades longer than most other styles, oftentimes outlasting metal style roofs. Slate itself is a type of tile used on roofing, made of a stone mixed with ash and clay. It doesn’t look artificial, and can save money in the long run because of how rare having to install a new roof will be. Slate has become a better economic choice over time, especially with centuries of experience. Due to its durability as a material and the way in which the slate tiles are laid, it makes it a less vulnerable to natural disasters.  They can actually resist hail very well, 3-4 inch hail can be resisted by slate roofs, and wind is not likely to damage it either. Although these roofs provide a level of security when it comes to how often you need to plan for roofing maintenance, they may have a large installation fee than other traditional roofing options. Despite the more expensive installation fees, slate shingles can last a century at times and tend to be a very reliable option.

Ceramic Tiles

Another similar style is tiling in general, laid the same way but without the slate stone. Ceramic tiles usually have more options stylistically, but have a slight difference in durability. Ceramic roofing tiles specifically have been used even longer than slate, with connections to Indus River Valley civilizations millennia ago. It has been used in Ancient Greece, with Rome using a similar material laid slightly differently, in terracotta style, but at its core it was still making use a ceramic tiles, specifically clay. Ceramic roofs are also fireproof, since they are not made from wood or combustible materials. Although they might be less durable than slate, they still can last 50+ years.

Flat Roofs

Flat roofs are also an attractive option, they generally make use of wood, asphalt or metal, and are a common design in the midwest. Contrary to popular belief, flat roofs are not actually completely flat, as they need to allow for water to drain off to the side. These are common in rural homes and are used in certain types of aesthetics, especially in Americana homes, rancher homes and types of Florida rooms. They are mainly used for businesses now however, but do have applications beyond that.

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Asphalt Shingle vs Metal Roofs: Which Is Right for You?

If you are currently looking for a new roof for your home—whether you are dealing with storm damage and need a replacement or just want to spring for an upgrade—preparation is the way to go. When you are looking for the perfect roof for you, information and research can be your best friend. Before making your purchase, you will want to make sure that you have looked into all of the different roofing options out there, why they are used, and what would work best for your home. There are all kinds of roof options and styles, and you will need to decide which one will work best for your situation.

To help you start your research, we will be taking a look at two of the most common types of roofs used on residential homes: asphalt shingle roofs and metal roofs. They are both great options with their own unique strengths and weaknesses, which we will go over in detail below.

Asphalt Shingle Roofs: Versatile & Affordable

One of the most commonly used types of roofs is an asphalt shingle roof, a style which has been in use in America since the early 1900s. Roofing shingles were not always made of asphalt, but have changed over time. The first shingles were made from impromptu items like rags or wood, and eventually fire retardant material was used. This development happened because, before the change, fires were common.

Asphalt Shingle Roof Pros

Shingles are now made from material covered in asphalt or even fiberglass. They are commonly covered with asphalt on one side only. Shingles are far and away the most commonly used roofing material due to the fact that they are so durable and affordable. They offer plenty of options in color, texture, general design and shape. With all of these different options available, they come in all different kinds of quality, with some easily lasting 20 years, others extending for nearly 30–40 years.

Asphalt Shingle Roof Cons

Every material has its drawback. Some materials might be completely unaffected by one type of disaster, but another type of disaster might cause catastrophic damage to that same material. Asphalt shingles are no exception, and their main weaknesses are their vulnerability to severe weather and their inability to bear weight. They cannot be directly walked on without sustaining damage, and wind can ravage them in ways that are often difficult to detect without a professional inspection. They can also be affected by hail or thunderstorms, but the fact that they can be both repaired and replaced can make dealing with storm damage more affordable.

Metal Roofs: A Long-Term Payoff

One roof less common on residential homes these days, but not without benefits, are metal roofs. One of the biggest advantages of metal roofs is that, if properly cared for, they can easily last 50 years barring any huge natural disaster.

Metal Roof Pros

While metal roofs have historically seen most of their use on commercial buildings, they are becoming an increasingly common choice for residential homeowners. Metal roofing materials can be used as shingles and tiles, but their most common use is as panels and sheets such as the ones used for porch roofing. Metal roofs cost a bit more to install, but ultimately will save or generate money in the long term due to the fact they will require less upkeep, last longer, and can add value to homes. They can also be very green and can come in many more styles than the generic steel they’re most commonly associated with.

Metal Roof Cons

In addition to the steep up-front cost, another common issue with metal roofs is that repairs after major damage can exceed the cost of purchasing a new roof. This means that in the case of major damage, you will most likely need to purchase a new roof. This does not mean that smaller issues cannot be fixed, though these small fixes may require welding or the use of specialized sealants to avoid patchwork.

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What Causes Roof Leaks?

The time to start thinking about roof leaks isn’t when you can’t enjoy a rainy day anymore because of the water leaking into your home. Being aware of what can cause leaks and signs that one might develop can save you a lot of money and trouble in the long run.

Leaking roofs can cause a lot of damage to your home, not just to your roof and ceiling. Your electrical wiring, paint, attic insulation, deck, and more can all be damaged by water leaking into your home. To prevent this trouble, keep an eye out for these common causes of roof leaks:

Old Shingles

Cracked, rotted or loose shingles are a common cause of roof leaks. If your roof is 20 years old, you will likely end up needing to replace your roof soon. The layer outside that we can see, the shingles, will show damage but it can be harder to see all of the damage on the layers underneath. These can stop the roof from being insulated, starting a leak. You will likely need to schedule a roof inspection to see what needs to be done if you notice this issue.

Damaged Flashing

If you can see flashing that has been damaged, you will likely want to inspect this as a potential cause of roofing leaks. Flashing is a piece of metal that protects your valleys or places where your roof meets vertical areas, like walls, or changes elevation. Since this is not airtight, it can be a common problem and cause of a leaking roof. Since flashing should create a water-resistant seal, if it is damaged it will stop that from happening.

Clogged Gutters

Another common contributing factor is clogged gutters. These gutters can become cracked, and eventually lead to leaking back into the walls, and into the attic, causing water damage. It can also cause a build up of moisture, causing more damage eventually. Plumbing, vents, or anything that comes from the roof can eventually cause damage build up, specifically if the boot (what creates a water-resistant seal) that protects the vent, begins to let water in, pulling water directly into the house. This can also happen because these vents provide a direct line into the home, so if the boots are cracked, they can begin to cause damage. 

Missing Roofing Nails

You should also check to make sure that roofing nails are not being pulled out by raised shingles, because they will eventually lead to a large amount of small holes that water will penetrate. Especially if it is windy rain, it can dislodge the nail causing the holes left by the nails to allow water in. It might not be noticeable, but if you have a leaking roof, you might want to have it inspected, as it can be a common cause of damage. Especially since it is difficult to tell without a trained eye – this is where a professional roofer can help.

Looking for a free roof inspection to find out where a roof leak is coming from? Contact Cox Brothers Roofing, a professional South Texas roofing company, to schedule an inspection today.

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How Sunlight Affects Your Roof

Your home is an important investment, and as such you want to protect every part of it, including an essential feature of your home: the roof. You know that severe weather can cause some noticeable damage to your roof, particularly heavy hail storms and gale force winds, but did you know that if the weather is too beautiful it can also damage your roof? Here is everything you need to know about how direct sunlight can damage your roof.

Harmful UV Rays

When the materials that your roof is made from are exposed to the radiation of UV rays in direct sunlight, they can suffer faster deterioration and greater degradation. Even when your roof is shrouded in mist they pick up a little. Just as the UV rays are what are harmful to you, they are also damaging to your roofing materials. UV rays are invisible to our eyes, but you can protect against them by coating the shingles or tiles of your roof in an anti-UV ray filter. This is a brush on additive, and usually considered both an easy and cost-effective solution to a problem that affects us all.

Expanding and Contracting

A roof is an important part of your home not only because it gives you shelter from the elements, but also because it traps heat and keeps the indoor areas cool. This is great in the summer months, but as you get on toward the colder months of the winter, the prolonged alternating periods of freezing then reheating can cause your roof to contract and expand at a greater rate than was allowed for. This can cause severe damage to the infrastructure of your home, meaning costly repairs and maintenance fees. If you live in an area like Central Texas where temperature can change from one day to the next, talk to you local roofing expert for the best solutions in your area.

Bleached Colors

In addition to the problems that you can get to the structural integrity of your roof, sun damage also has an undesired bleaching effect on the materials used to craft it. When compared to the physical damage that direct sunlight and exposure to the radiation of UV rays can cause, it seems insignificant, but if you’re concerned about the aesthetic of your home, you also will want it to look a certain way. To give your home a well maintained and cared for appearance, be sure to correct any damage you see the sun has caused.

What Can I Do?

It may seem like suffering some damage as a result of sunlight is inevitable, but with regular maintenance you can catch an issue before it turns into something really big. Your issues with sunlight and the effect it has on your roof might run the gamut from a practical issue to a cosmetic one, but you should know that the sun can damage your roof, as well as how to protect against it. As with any other issue dealing with roofs, your best bet is to seek a professional roofer to help you out. They can offer an opinion on what the problem is, as well as work with you to figure out a lasting solution.

Looking for a professional local roofer in Victoria or Cuero, TX? Contact Cox Brothers Roofing to speak to one of our experts!

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When To Get Your Roof Inspected

Spring is a great time of year to seriously consider if you should get a professional roof inspection. Is there a way to tell if your roof needs a thorough inspection right away? You might notice water stains on interior walls or ceilings that could be the beginning of a critical roof leak. Water damage from leaking roofs can be a breeding ground for mold and algae. Mold and algae removal can be long tedious, and expensive. Getting a quick roof inspection can help prevent this. You should also consider a roof inspection if your home has recently experienced any of the following:

Hail Damage

The majority of roofing systems designed today are built and engineered to withstand the most hazardous of elements the climate can bring. Even if the roofing shingles are able to withstand a hail resistance of grade 4, most roofing shingles could be damaged. Even in minor hail damage, wear and tear on the roof will be higher as time passes. That is why it is important for the homeowner to have the roof inspected and repairs done before the roof starts to leak.

WIND STORM DAMAGE

Severe wind can cause permanent damage to your roof. By the sheer velocity of the wind, shingles on the edges of the roof can be lifted away from the roofing structure. This loosening of the shingles leaves your roofing structure subject to water leaks. The force of severe winds can also cause tree branches to hit your roof, causing major damage and water leaks.

CRACKS

Sometimes roofing shingles will develop cracks over time. If you do see cracks in shingles forming, it is imperative to find out the cause of the cracked shingles before serious leaks start happening, resulting in permanent water repair damage to the housing structure. A roof inspection that brings attention to a small issue such as cracked shingles could save you the cost of significant repairs later on if the issue isn’t detected.

The View From Inside

Check out the status of your roof from the inside of your attic. Seeing light shining through your ceiling? These large holes can cause damage to your home and the precious personal items you cherish. Notice dark spots or stains inside your attic? These are often caused by a severe water leak coming through your roof. Timely roof repairs to prevent permanent and expensive damage are needed.

PERSONAL RECORDS

Take a close inspection of all your housing records. Records of home improvement can be very beneficial when determining when your roof may need updates. Property purchase records can also be helpful in determining the age of your current roof. Average shingle roofs last 25 to 30 years. Metal roofs have lifespans as high as 70 years. These types of records can be most beneficial to the homeowner in determining their next roof inspection.

A NOTE ABOUT STEEL ROOF SYSTEMS

Steel roofs are known for their superior longevity over shingle type roofing systems. However, even the best of steel roofs do not last forever and can be damaged like their shingle counterparts. If you are a homeowner with a steel, tin, or metal type roof, and upon inspection notice rust, loose nails, or any indications of leaks, your roof is most likely in need of a replacement.

Need to schedule an inspection for your South Texas roof? Contact Cox Brothers Roofing, a roofing company based in Cuero and serving all of South Texas, to learn more.

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Tree Maintenance To Protect Your Roof

Your home is your pride and joy. Your roof is a really big part of that joy, keeping it well maintained is a huge source of pride. A tree that is overgrown and allows its branches to brush or harm your roof is a big problem that many homeowners face. Here we discuss some information you might need to help you protect your roof from being damaged by tree branches.

What Is the Risk?

Having a tree with tough branches overhanging the roof of your home can really be a threat to your property. Branches scratching over your roof every day without being stopped from doing so can tear shingles loose or bring up layers of the asphalt protecting your home. This means water leaks and holes in the security of the roof. One thing about water damage is that it can be insidious, sneaking up on you and not really showing itself until it is too late to fix it. If the tree is at all damaged, it will only take the slightest bit of inclement weather to bring branches crashing down on your home, the impact causing a huge hassle.

Whose Tree is it?

Many people with a tree hanging over their roof and causing a headache often find that the tree in question does not belong to them. It could be a neighbor’s tree, necessitating you to speak to them and devise a plan of action. In the United States, even if a tree is not on your property, you have the right to trim any branches that encroach on the space that is yours. However, it is useful to claim any damage to the actual tree that may be a result. In this way, you protect yourself from any future lawsuits. Take this step even if you are not on goof terms with the neighbor in question.

What to do about the Limb

There are two approaches you can choose from. Either you can hire a professional company to come out and take care of the branches for you, or you can attempt to do it yourself. The major problem with doing it yourself is that you will have to be around the tree to trim the branch or branches. This puts you in danger and opens you up to a world of hurt. Then too, there is the chance that the branch(es) could fall upon your home, causing even more damage. Because of this, many people choose to have a certified arborist come out and do it for them without causing a lot of harm to the tree. Whichever option you go for, it is important to have some safety nets in place.

Your home is a huge investment, likely one that you are quite proud of. For this reason, it is important to properly maintain all trees on your property, or even ones that are not on your property, merely overhanging onto it.

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Signs You May Need a New Roof

A major responsibility of owning your own home is keeping all of its aspects, including the roof, in good repair. While age may play a big part in when you decide to have your roof replaced or even repaired, keep reading for some of the major signs you might have a big problem.

Curled or Lifting Shingles

Having a shingled roof might add to the comfort and coziness of your home, like a cottage on a wind swept moor, but beware! One of the major problems that a shingle roof will have is that each shingle must be taken care of and shown an equal amount of attention. However, they are easy to replace and whole sections of the roof of your home may be replaced or repaired. A big problem linked with lifting shingles is water collecting and associated damage. It can also lead to more suspect structural integrity problems, something deeper than a purely cosmetic issue. If your home does collect water, it can play host to quite a number of pests you would not like to have around, like wood lice or termites.

Missing Shingles

If your roof is missing shingles, that’s a fairly simple problem to diagnose. All you need to do is go around your attic, or where the roof is visible from the interior, and see where the daylight is leaking through. This will give you a better idea on which areas of the roof are more heavily damaged. You will want these breaches in the security of your roof to be repaired because they can allow in all manner of small creature. Much like the water trapped in decaying shingles creates an excellent nesting ground for insects, the warmth of your home is like a lighthouse beam for dangerous, if adorable, animals.

Discoloration of Shingles

The discoloration of roof shingles, generally presenting as dark stripes, is an airborne algae or a mold that can be harmful if breathed in and so not something you want where you live. It might look unsightly, but this is a problem that is easily fixed. Simply spray your roof, including all affected shingles with a mixture of water and bleach. This will dry the water based organism out and it will just wither away. Be sure to protect your landscaping from the runoff of these harmful chemicals. Organic, they are not.

Your house is there to protect you, provide a safe an dry refuge for you. How can it perform this function with a ramshackle roof that collects water and lets in a menagerie? Look over this list of common problems faced by homeowners and figure out if it’s time for you to take the plunge and repair or entirely replace your roof. If just a portion of your roof needs to be replaced, you can do that as well.

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